Bordeaux has an oceanic climate influenced by its position on the Garonne River, 100 km from the Atlantic coast. The city experiences mild, wet winters and warm, moderately dry summers. The Gulf Stream keeps temperatures above freezing year-round, and the region’s famous vineyards benefit from the balance of Atlantic moisture and long growing-season sunshine.
Bordeaux Weather by Month: Temperature, Rainfall, and Sunshine
Climate data below comes from 30-year averages recorded at Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD), 12 km west of the city center. The city’s sheltered position along the Garonne means the airport data slightly overstates wind speeds and understates urban heat island effects by 1-2°C.
Bordeaux Monthly Climate Comparison Table
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Rainfall (mm) | Humidity | Sunshine Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10°C / 50°F | 3°C / 37°F | 87 | 85% | 96 |
| February | 12°C / 54°F | 3°C / 37°F | 72 | 80% | 115 |
| March | 15°C / 59°F | 6°C / 43°F | 65 | 75% | 170 |
| April | 17°C / 63°F | 8°C / 46°F | 78 | 73% | 185 |
| May | 21°C / 70°F | 11°C / 52°F | 80 | 73% | 216 |
| June | 24°C / 75°F | 14°C / 57°F | 62 | 72% | 239 |
| July | 27°C / 81°F | 16°C / 61°F | 50 | 71% | 250 |
| August | 27°C / 81°F | 16°C / 61°F | 56 | 72% | 242 |
| September | 24°C / 75°F | 13°C / 55°F | 84 | 76% | 202 |
| October | 19°C / 66°F | 10°C / 50°F | 93 | 82% | 147 |
| November | 13°C / 55°F | 6°C / 43°F | 107 | 85% | 95 |
| December | 10°C / 50°F | 4°C / 39°F | 99 | 86% | 84 |
Bordeaux Weather in Winter (December to February)
Bordeaux winters are mild and wet. January highs average 10°C (50°F) with overnight lows of 3°C (37°F). Frost occurs on roughly 25 days per year but severe freezes are rare. Snowfall is extremely uncommon, averaging 1-2 days annually with minimal accumulation.
December and January are among the wettest months at 87-99mm. Sunshine is limited: 84-96 hours monthly, roughly 3 hours of weak sun per day. The Atlantic influence means rain arrives in fronts that can last 2-3 days. Pack a waterproof coat, layers, and waterproof shoes; the limestone streets can be slippery when wet.
Bordeaux Weather in Spring (March to May)
Spring accelerates from March’s 15°C (59°F) to May’s 21°C (70°F). Rainfall stays moderate at 65-80mm monthly. Sunshine increases to 170 hours in March and 216 hours in May. This is a transitional season where warm, sunny days alternate with Atlantic rain fronts.
May can bring the first genuinely warm days above 25°C (77°F), but also sudden downpours. The vineyards surrounding Bordeaux begin their growing season, and by late April the vines show their first leaves. Pack layers and a compact umbrella. This is the best season for combining city sightseeing with wine region day trips before the summer crowds arrive.
Bordeaux Weather in Summer (June to August)
Bordeaux summers are warm and relatively dry. July and August peak at 27°C (81°F) with overnight lows of 16°C (61°F). Heatwaves push temperatures to 35-38°C (95-100°F) for 5-10 days per summer, increasingly frequent in recent years. July is the driest month at 50mm.
Air conditioning is becoming more common but isn’t universal in older hotels; verify when booking for summer stays. The long daylight (sunset at 9:50 PM in late June) extends the day for wine terrace drinking. June is slightly cooler at 24°C (75°F) and moderately wet at 62mm.
Bordeaux Weather in Autumn (September to November)
September holds onto summer warmth at 24°C (75°F) but brings the return of Atlantic rain (84mm). October drops to 19°C (66°F) and is the second-wettest month at 93mm. November is the wettest month at 107mm with just 95 hours of sunshine and 85% humidity.
The grape harvest (vendange) typically begins in late August for white grapes and extends through September for reds. This is a beautiful season in the vineyards as the leaves turn golden, but the city sees persistent rain from October onward. Pack a proper raincoat, not just an umbrella; Atlantic rain comes with wind.
Bordeaux Rainfall Patterns and What to Pack
Bordeaux receives 933mm of rain annually across roughly 135 rainy days, significantly more than Paris (637mm) or London (615mm). The rain is concentrated in autumn and winter (October-January accounts for 43% of yearly rainfall). November alone brings 107mm. Rain tends toward extended drizzly periods from Atlantic fronts rather than intense downpours.
Summer visitors (June-August) can get away with a light jacket for occasional showers. Spring and autumn visitors need a waterproof layer and umbrella. Winter visitors need full waterproofing: coat, shoes, and a wind-resistant umbrella. The city’s reflective limestone pavements amplify light even on grey days, making sunglasses useful year-round.
