When to Visit Hanover
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Browse tours, activities, and experiences in Hanover. Book with free cancellation on most options.
Explore Tours & ActivitiesWhat to Pack
Year-Round Essentials
Spring (Mar-May)
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Skip These Items
Month-by-Month Guide
January
January is the heart of winter in Hanover, with cold, overcast days and temperatures that hover just above freezing. You'll likely encounter a mix of rain and occasional snow, though significant accumulation isn't guaranteed. The short daylight hours and persistent gray skies can feel pretty dreary, but it's also when you'll find the city at its quietest.
February
February continues the winter pattern with cold, damp conditions, though you might notice the days starting to stretch out a bit. Temperatures remain stubbornly chilly, and the combination of cold and humidity can feel particularly penetrating. This is typically the driest month of the year, though that's relative—you'll still want waterproof gear.
March
March marks the beginning of spring, though the transition is gradual and you'll still have plenty of chilly, gray days. Temperatures start climbing into the upper 40s°F, and you might catch the first signs of blossoms appearing in the city's parks. The weather tends to be unpredictable—you could see anything from snow to surprisingly mild afternoons.
April
April brings noticeably warmer weather and longer days, with temperatures climbing into the upper 50s°F. The city starts coming alive with spring blooms, and outdoor cafes begin opening their terraces. That said, the weather can still be changeable—the old saying about April showers definitely applies here, so layering is key.
May
May is genuinely pleasant in Hanover, with temperatures reaching the mid-60s°F and the gardens and parks in full bloom. The days are long and you'll finally get some consistent sunshine, though you should still expect occasional rain. This is one of the best months for exploring the city on foot without battling crowds or extreme weather.
June
Early summer brings warm, comfortable weather with highs around 71°F—warm enough for short sleeves but rarely oppressive. The long daylight hours (sunset can be after 9:30 PM) make it ideal for sightseeing. Rain becomes more frequent, but it often comes as brief showers rather than all-day drizzle.
July
July is typically the warmest month, with temperatures reaching the mid-70s°F, though heat waves can occasionally push things higher. It's also the wettest month, with afternoon thunderstorms being fairly common—the kind that can roll in quickly and catch you off guard. Despite the rain, it's peak tourist season, so popular attractions will be busy.
August
August mirrors July's weather patterns—warm days in the mid-70s°F with frequent rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. The humidity can feel a bit sticky during the warmest spells, but evenings tend to cool down pleasantly. Tourist numbers remain high, particularly in the first half of the month before German school holidays end.
September
September offers some of the year's most pleasant weather, with temperatures settling into the mid-60s°F and rainfall moderating slightly. The early autumn light can be beautiful, and the city feels less crowded as summer tourists depart. You'll still get plenty of good weather for outdoor activities, though you might want to start packing a warmer layer for evenings.
October
October brings proper autumn weather, with temperatures dropping into the upper 50s°F and the leaves changing color in the city's many parks. The days are noticeably shorter, and you'll see more gray, overcast conditions. Rain is frequent, and by month's end, you'll definitely need a proper jacket and possibly gloves.
November
November is typically gray, damp, and chilly—not the city's most appealing month, honestly. Temperatures hover in the mid-40s°F, and the combination of short days, frequent rain, and bare trees can feel pretty bleak. That said, it's quiet and inexpensive, and by late November, the Christmas markets start appearing, which does add some cheer.
December
December is cold and dark, with temperatures barely above freezing and only about 7-8 hours of daylight. The weather tends to be damp and gray rather than crisp and snowy, though you might get lucky with a white Christmas. The saving grace is the Christmas markets, which run through most of the month and give you a reason to brave the cold.