Berlin’s a blast anytime of year. However, I’m partial to a few certain months that I consider the best time to visit Berlin. Find out when below.

Berlin weather and seasons

Like other countries in northern and central Europe, Berlin’s climate is continental and is characterized by cold winters and mild summers. Temperatures average in the mid-70s in July and August, but temper markedly in the spring and autumn. On average, there are approximately 10-14 days of rainfall in the summer months, which helps to offset higher temperatures.

Berlin festivals and events

Karneval der Kulturen (early June)

Among the biggest highlights of summer festivals in Berlin is the Karneval der Kulturen (June 2-5). Celebrated annually during Pentecost weekend, this multicultural event features a wide variety of musical and theatrical performances.

Pure & Crafted (late August)

For more experienced travelers looking for new adventures, the Pure & Crafted festival, located in the enclave of Rummelsburg, combines a passion for motorbike culture with all things rock ‘n’ roll. The festival also features local craft beer vendors, acrobatic acts and a custom bike show.

Berlin Art Week (late September)

Berlin Art Week shines a light on the contemporary art scene and includes elaborate art installations, visual and multimedia performances, and a focus on independent film. Galleries are featured in aircraft hangars at the former Tempelhof Airport, contributing to the overall grandeur and spectacle of this four-day event.

Berlin tourism highs and lows

Berlin’s peak tourism season fluctuates year to year. That said, the summer festival months, particularly late June through early August, see an influx in German tourism. Tourism also peaks during the nearly two weeks of celebrations that accompany Oktoberfest in neighboring Munich in late September and early October.

So, what’s the best time to visit Berlin?

The best time to visit Berlin is in June or September, when you can enjoy a nice reprieve from the heat and encounter fewer throngs of tourists. June travelers will benefit from a busy summer festival schedule and September visitors interested in getting off the beaten path, will find temperatures well suited to an evening stroll through the city.

Still mulling over when to go to Berlin? Is budget your biggest concern? Cheap accommodations abound in the early and late summer months especially. Additionally, hotel pricing options are offset by affordable public transportation options as well as cheap eats. The time when to go Berlin is now.

When to go: More articles on the best time to visit European cities:

WHEN TO GO: AMSTERDAM
WHEN TO GO: ROME
WHEN TO GO: BERLIN
WHEN TO GO: PRAGUE