Ajaccio, on Corsica’s west coast, has a classic Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The city receives about 2,750 hours of sunshine annually and around 880mm of rainfall, concentrated between October and April. Sea temperatures peak at 25C (77F) in August, making late summer the best time for swimming. For a broader seasonal overview, see the best time to visit Ajaccio guide.
Ajaccio Weather by Month: Temperature and Rainfall
The table below shows average high/low temperatures, rainfall, sunshine hours, and sea temperature for each month. All data is based on long-term averages from Meteo France and climate research sources.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Rainfall | Sun (hrs) | Sea Temp |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 13C / 55F | 5C / 41F | 74mm | 4h | 14C / 57F |
| February | 13C / 55F | 5C / 41F | 69mm | 5h | 13C / 55F |
| March | 15C / 59F | 7C / 45F | 58mm | 6h | 14C / 57F |
| April | 17C / 63F | 9C / 48F | 63mm | 8h | 15C / 59F |
| May | 21C / 70F | 13C / 55F | 45mm | 9h | 18C / 64F |
| June | 25C / 77F | 16C / 61F | 20mm | 11h | 21C / 70F |
| July | 28C / 82F | 19C / 66F | 8mm | 12h | 24C / 75F |
| August | 28C / 82F | 19C / 66F | 25mm | 11h | 25C / 77F |
| September | 25C / 77F | 17C / 63F | 54mm | 8h | 23C / 73F |
| October | 22C / 72F | 14C / 57F | 92mm | 6h | 21C / 70F |
| November | 17C / 63F | 9C / 48F | 110mm | 4h | 18C / 64F |
| December | 14C / 57F | 6C / 43F | 92mm | 4h | 15C / 59F |
Ajaccio Weather by Month: Winter (December to February)
Winter in Ajaccio is mild compared to mainland France. Daytime temperatures reach 13-14C (55-57F), though nights drop to 5-6C (41-43F). December and January each see around 90mm of rain over 10-12 rainy days. February is slightly drier at 69mm. With only 4-5 hours of daily sunshine, this is the least sunny period. Snow is almost unknown at sea level in Ajaccio itself, though the Corsican mountains inland do get snow cover. Sea temperature drops to 13-14C (55-57F), too cold for swimming without a wetsuit. The Ajaccio Christmas Market in Place Foch runs through December, and many restaurants and shops stay open year-round in the city center, unlike smaller Corsican resort towns that shut down completely.
Ajaccio Weather by Month: Spring (March to May)
Spring sees temperatures climbing steadily: March averages 15C (59F), April 17C (63F), and May reaches a pleasant 21C (70F). Rainfall decreases from 58mm in March to 45mm in May. Sunshine jumps from 6 hours in March to 9 hours by May. This is one of the best times to visit for sightseeing and hiking in the Corsican mountains. The maquis (Corsican scrubland) blooms with wildflowers, filling the air with the island’s characteristic herbal scent. Sea temperature rises slowly from 14C (57F) in March to 18C (64F) by late May, still cool for swimming but fine for watersports with a light wetsuit. Hotel rates are lower than summer, and flights from mainland France and European cities are cheaper.
Ajaccio Weather by Month: Summer (June to August)
Summer is hot, dry, and sunny. June averages 25C (77F) with only 20mm of rain, making it one of the driest months. July and August peak at 28C (82F), with July receiving just 8mm of rain (the driest month). Daily sunshine reaches 11-12 hours, and sea temperatures hit 24-25C (75-77F), perfect for swimming. August can feel humid, and occasional heatwaves push temperatures above 33C (91F) when hot air flows in from North Africa. Evenings cool down to around 19C (66F) thanks to sea breezes. This is peak tourist season: beaches are crowded, accommodation prices double or triple, and you need advance reservations for popular restaurants. Book flights at least 3 months ahead for July and August.
Ajaccio Weather by Month: Autumn (September to November)
September remains warm and pleasant with average highs of 25C (77F) and sea temperature still at 23C (73F). Rainfall increases to 54mm but is often concentrated in short, heavy afternoon showers rather than all-day rain. October sees a noticeable shift: temperatures drop to 22C (72F) and rainfall nearly doubles to 92mm, making it the start of the wet season. November is the wettest month at 110mm with only 4 hours of daily sunshine. The first half of September is excellent for a late beach holiday with smaller crowds and lower prices. October is still good for sightseeing and hiking if you pack a rain jacket. By November, many beach restaurants and seasonal hotels close for winter.
Ajaccio Weather by Month: Quick Facts
- Warmest month: August (28C / 82F high, 19C / 66F low)
- Coldest month: January (13C / 55F high, 5C / 41F low)
- Wettest month: November (110mm / 4.3 inches)
- Driest month: July (8mm / 0.3 inches)
- Best sea temperature: August (25C / 77F)
- Sunniest month: July (12 hours per day)
- Annual sunshine: approximately 2,750 hours
- Annual rainfall: approximately 880mm / 34.6 inches
