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Best time to visit Heidelberg: month by month
Short answer
May, June and September are the best months: highs of about 19–26°C and the castle gardens green. July and August are warm (about 25–26°C on average) and busiest with tour groups. December has Christmas markets but highs of about 6°C and frequent grey, wet days.
Month by month
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 5°C | 1°C | 16 | low |
| Feb | 8°C | 1°C | 13 | low |
| Mar | 12°C | 2°C | 12 | low |
| Apr | 13°C | 4°C | 13 | medium |
| May | 19°C | 10°C | 13 | high |
| Jun | 26°C | 15°C | 10 | high |
| Jul | 26°C | 15°C | 12 | high |
| Aug | 25°C | 16°C | 15 | high |
| Sep | 22°C | 12°C | 9 | high |
| Oct | 17°C | 9°C | 12 | medium |
| Nov | 9°C | 4°C | 19 | low |
| Dec | 6°C | 2°C | 18 | high |
Temperatures and rainy days: Copernicus ERA5 averages, 2021–2023. Crowd levels are our estimate.
Season by season
Spring (Mar–May)
Highs climb from about 12°C in March to 19°C in May, with 12–13 rain days a month; blossom, white asparagus season and fewer crowds.
Summer (Jun–Aug)
Average highs of 25–26°C and lows of 15–16°C, with 10–15 rain days a month including thunderstorms; castle illuminations and busy boats.
Autumn (Sep–Nov)
Highs fall from about 22°C in September to 9°C in November; September is the driest month with about 9 rain days, and the woods turn in October.
Winter (Dec–Feb)
Highs of about 5–8°C and lows of 1–2°C, with 13–18 rain or snow days a month; Christmas markets in December, quiet afterwards.
Events worth planning around
- Castle illuminations with fireworks — three Saturdays a year, usually June, July and September
- Heidelberger Herbst autumn festival in the old town — late September
- Christmas markets in the old town squares — late November to December
When to avoid
Avoid illumination Saturdays and trade-fair dates if you want lower hotel prices. January to March is cold and grey, though cheap and quiet.
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Common questions
What is the best month to visit Heidelberg?
May, June or September, with highs of about 19–26°C.
When are the Heidelberg Castle illuminations?
On three Saturdays a year, usually in June, July and September. Check the dates and book early.
Is Heidelberg worth visiting in December?
Yes, for the Christmas markets, but expect highs of about 6°C and grey weather.