Dortmund has a temperate oceanic climate (Koppen Cfb) with mild summers, cool winters, and rainfall spread evenly throughout the year. The city sits in the Ruhr region of North Rhine-Westphalia at an elevation of 86 metres (282 feet). Dortmund receives about 860 mm (34 inches) of rain annually across roughly 170 rain days, with no dry season. Snow is light, averaging 15 to 20 snow days per year concentrated between December and February. With around 1,500 hours of sunshine annually, Dortmund is not a sun destination, but the long summer days from May through August bring pleasant conditions for outdoor sightseeing and park visits. For detailed information, see our best time to visit Dortmund.
Dortmund Weather by Month: Temperature and Rainfall
Below is the month-by-month breakdown of Dortmund’s weather. Temperatures are daily averages based on 30-year climate normals. Rainfall includes both rain and the liquid equivalent of any snow. For detailed information, see our things to do in Dortmund.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Rainfall | Rain Days | Sun (hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 5°C (41°F) | 0°C (32°F) | 75 mm | 18 | 50 |
| February | 6°C (43°F) | 0°C (32°F) | 60 mm | 15 | 75 |
| March | 10°C (50°F) | 3°C (37°F) | 65 mm | 16 | 115 |
| April | 14°C (57°F) | 5°C (41°F) | 55 mm | 14 | 170 |
| May | 19°C (66°F) | 9°C (48°F) | 70 mm | 15 | 210 |
| June | 21°C (70°F) | 12°C (54°F) | 80 mm | 15 | 200 |
| July | 23°C (73°F) | 14°C (57°F) | 85 mm | 16 | 210 |
| August | 23°C (73°F) | 13°C (55°F) | 85 mm | 16 | 195 |
| September | 19°C (66°F) | 11°C (52°F) | 70 mm | 15 | 145 |
| October | 14°C (57°F) | 7°C (45°F) | 65 mm | 15 | 110 |
| November | 9°C (48°F) | 3°C (37°F) | 80 mm | 18 | 55 |
| December | 6°C (43°F) | 1°C (34°F) | 85 mm | 19 | 40 |
Dortmund Weather by Month: January and February
January is Dortmund’s coldest month, with average highs of 5°C (41°F) and lows dropping to freezing (0°C/32°F). Rain falls on about 18 days, and snow is possible, averaging 7 to 8 cm (3 inches) of accumulation. Frost is common on 12 to 15 mornings. Daylight is limited to 8 hours from sunrise to sunset. February remains cold but slightly drier, with 60 mm of rainfall over 15 days. Daytime highs nudge up to 6°C (43°F). Snow can still occur in the first half of February, but the second half often brings the first hints of spring with occasional sunny days. If you visit in winter, a waterproof coat, sturdy shoes, and layers are essential. The Christmas market runs until just before New Year, but by mid-January the city is quiet and hotel rates are at their lowest. For detailed information, see our Dortmund events and festivals.
Dortmund Weather by Month: March and April
March marks the transition to spring. Highs reach 10°C (50°F) and frost becomes rare after mid-month, though mornings can still dip to 3°C (37°F). Rain falls on 16 days (65 mm), often as light showers rather than sustained downpours. The parks begin to green up and the first blossoms appear at Westfalenpark and Rombergpark by late March. April brings noticeably milder weather with highs of 14°C (57°F) and lows around 5°C (41°F). It is the driest month with just 55 mm of rain over 14 days. Sunshine increases to about 6 hours per day. April is one of the best months for outdoor sightseeing before the summer crowds arrive. Pack a light jacket and an umbrella for passing showers. For detailed information, see our Dortmund neighborhoods guide.
Dortmund Weather by Month: May and June
May is a genuine spring month with highs reaching 19°C (66°F) and lows of 9°C (48°F). Rain increases to 70 mm over 15 days, but it often comes as brief afternoon showers that clear quickly. Sunlight stretches to 15 to 16 hours of daylight, and parks like Westfalenpark are in full bloom. June brings the summer solstice with up to 16.5 hours of daylight. Highs average 21°C (70°F), though occasional heat waves can push temperatures to 30°C (86°F) for a few days. Rainfall is 80 mm over 15 days, often as thunderstorms in the late afternoon. Humidity hovers around 70 percent, so it can feel muggy on warm days. Pack shorts and t-shirts but bring a rain jacket. For detailed information, see our where to stay in Dortmund.
Dortmund Weather by Month: July and August
July and August are Dortmund’s warmest months, both averaging highs of 23°C (73°F) with overnight lows of 13 to 14°C (55 to 57°F). These are the rainiest months too, each receiving about 85 mm over 16 days. The rain typically falls as short, heavy thunderstorms in the late afternoon or evening, leaving mornings and early afternoons clear for exploring. Sunshine hours peak at around 210 in July, making it the sunniest month. The Phoenix-See lake area gets busy with locals swimming and sunbathing. The Juicy Beats music festival takes place in Westfalenpark in late July. August can occasionally see heat waves with temperatures climbing above 30°C (86°F), but air conditioning is rare in German hotels. A portable fan can help if you are sensitive to heat. For detailed information, see our Dortmund travel tips.
Dortmund Weather by Month: September and October
September offers pleasant early autumn weather, with highs of 19°C (66°F) and lows around 11°C (52°F). Rainfall drops to 70 mm over 15 days. The first two weeks of September often feel like an extension of summer, making it an excellent time for walking tours and outdoor dining. By late September, trees in Westfalenpark and Rombergpark begin to change colour. October sees a sharper cooldown: highs average 14°C (57°F) and lows 7°C (45°F). Rain holds steady at 65 mm over 15 days. Cloud cover increases significantly, and by late October daylight shrinks to under 10 hours. Pack a warm sweater and waterproof jacket. The Dortmund Christmas market setup begins in late October, with the market itself opening in mid-November. For the complete overview, see our Dortmund travel guide.
Dortmund Weather by Month: November and December
November is grey and damp, with highs of just 9°C (48°F), lows of 3°C (37°F), and 80 mm of rain over 18 days. Daylight drops below 9 hours and overcast skies are the norm. The Christmas market opens in the second half of November, bringing lights and festive atmosphere to the city centre squares. December is only slightly colder at 6°C (43°F) highs and 1°C (34°F) lows. It is the wettest month alongside July with 85 mm of precipitation. Snow is possible but not guaranteed. The massive Dortmund Christmas tree, one of Europe’s tallest, dominates the Hansaplatz market. If you are visiting for the Christmas markets, wear thermal layers, waterproof boots, and a warm hat. The festive crowds and gluhwein stalls make the cold weather worthwhile.
