Garmisch-Partenkirchen, nestled in the Bavarian Alps, features a classic Alpine climate with cold, snowy winters and mild to warm, wet summers. The region experiences significant seasonal contrasts, abundant precipitation, and a high number of sunny days, making it an attractive year-round destination for winter sports, hiking, and enjoying pristine mountain landscapes.
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
Garmisch-Partenkirchen enjoys a temperate oceanic (Cfb) Alpine climate, shaped by its mountain setting. Winters (December to March) are cold and snowy, with average highs around 2°C and lows often below freezing. Snow cover is reliable, particularly from December to March, with the ski season typically lasting from late November to April. The town receives about 193 cm of snow annually, supporting a vibrant winter sports scene. Despite the cold, sunny days are common in the valley, while the mountains remain crisp and white.
Summers (June to August) are mild to warm, with average highs of 20–24°C and cool nights. This season is also the wettest, with July and August experiencing the most rainfall, often as afternoon thunderstorms. The region enjoys long daylight hours – up to 16 hours in June – and abundant sunshine, with over 3,400 hours per year. Spring and autumn are transitional, featuring moderate temperatures, blooming flowers or colourful foliage, and fewer crowds. Humidity remains high year-round, averaging around 85%, and winds are generally light to moderate, with occasional brisk gusts in the mountains. Daylight varies from about 8.5 hours in December to nearly 16 hours in June.
Garmisch-Partenkirchen’s climate supports a wide range of outdoor activities, from skiing and snowboarding in winter to hiking, mountain biking, and lake excursions in summer. The healthy mountain air and premium-class spa status add to the town’s appeal, making it a top destination for both active and relaxing holidays in every season.
| Average climate data for Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
| Average maximum temperature (°C) | 2 | 4 | 8 | 12 | 17 | 19 | 21 | 21 | 18 | 13 | 7 | 2 | 21 |
| Average minimum temperature (°C) | -6 | -5 | -2 | 1 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 3 | -1 | -5 | -6 |
| Average precipitation (mm) | 71 | 50 | 60 | 91 | 120 | 170 | 181 | 162 | 119 | 70 | 60 | 80 | 1,233 |
| Average daily daylight hours (h) | 9 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 12 |
The best time to visit Garmisch-Partenkirchen depends on your interests: December to March is ideal for winter sports, with reliable snow and lively ski resorts. For hiking, mountain biking, and scenic drives, late May to early October offers mild temperatures, lush landscapes, and long daylight hours, especially outside peak summer holidays.
The least favourable time to visit is typically November and early April, when temperatures are cool, rainfall increases, and snow cover is unreliable for winter sports. Many mountain activities are limited during these shoulder months, and some attractions may operate reduced hours.
Garmisch-Partenkirchen has a classic Alpine climate with cold, snowy winters and mild to warm, wet summers. The region experiences significant seasonal contrasts, abundant precipitation, and a high number of sunny days.
The ski season typically runs from late November to April, with the best conditions from December to March. Snow cover is reliable, and the area receives about 193 cm of snow annually, making it a prime winter sports destination.
Summers are mild to warm, with average highs of 20–24°C in July and August. Nights remain cool, and afternoon thunderstorms are common. Summer is ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying the alpine scenery.
Yes, especially in summer. July and August are the wettest months, with frequent showers and thunderstorms. Annual precipitation is high, supporting lush vegetation and healthy mountain air.
The town enjoys over 3,400 hours of sunshine annually. Summer days can last up to 16 hours, while winter days are shorter but often sunny in the valley. Sun protection is recommended year-round.
For winter, pack thermal layers, a waterproof jacket, snow boots, and gloves. In summer, bring light clothing, sun protection, a rain jacket, and sturdy shoes for outdoor activities. Weather can change quickly in the Alps.
Yes, autumn is a beautiful time with colourful foliage, crisp air, and fewer tourists. Temperatures are cool, so bring warm layers. Some mountain activities may be limited, but hiking and sightseeing are still enjoyable.
The warmest month, with the highest average maximum temperature, is August (20.9 °C). The month with the lowest average maximum temperature is December (1.9 °C). Overall, the average maximum temperature over the whole year is 11.9 °C.
The month with the highest average minimum temperature is July (10 °C). The coldest month, with the lowest average minimum temperature, is January (-5.9 °C). Overall, the average minimum temperature over the whole year is 2.1 °C.
The wettest month, with the highest amount of precipitation, is July (180.8 mm). The driest month, with the least amount of precipitation, is February (50.5 mm). Over the whole year there are 1,232.6 mm of rainfall on average.
The month with the longest days, so the most daylight, is June (Average daylight: 15.1 h). The month with the shortest days, so the least daylight, is December (Average daylight: 8 h). Over the whole year there are 11.8 h of daylight per day on average.
