Moscow - When to Visit

When to Visit Moscow

Climate guide & best times to travel

Monthly Climate Data for Moscow Average temperature and rainfall by month Climate Overview -13°C -2°C 8°C 18°C 29°C Rainfall (mm) 0 41 83 Jan Jan: -3.0°C high, -8.0°C low, 53mm rain Feb Feb: -3.0°C high, -8.0°C low, 43mm rain Mar Mar: 3.0°C high, -4.0°C low, 38mm rain Apr Apr: 11.0°C high, 2.0°C low, 38mm rain May May: 19.0°C high, 8.0°C low, 61mm rain Jun Jun: 22.0°C high, 12.0°C low, 79mm rain Jul Jul: 24.0°C high, 14.0°C low, 84mm rain Aug Aug: 22.0°C high, 13.0°C low, 79mm rain Sep Sep: 16.0°C high, 8.0°C low, 66mm rain Oct Oct: 8.0°C high, 3.0°C low, 71mm rain Nov Nov: 1.0°C high, -2.0°C low, 51mm rain Dec Dec: -2.0°C high, -6.0°C low, 51mm rain Temperature Rainfall
Moscow experiences a humid continental climate with long, harsh winters and warm, humid summers. The city sees dramatic seasonal temperature swings, from frigid January lows of 16°F to pleasant July highs of 76°F. Winter dominates the calendar from November through March with temperatures well below freezing, while the brief but beautiful summer months of June through August offer the most comfortable weather. Precipitation is fairly consistent year-round at 70% humidity, with summer months receiving the highest rainfall (3.1-3.3 inches) and late winter/early spring being the driest period (1.5-1.7 inches). The transitional seasons of April-May and September-October provide mild temperatures but can be unpredictable. Moscow's climate requires careful planning, as the extreme winter cold necessitates heavy winter clothing, while summer months offer ideal conditions for outdoor exploration. The city's northern latitude means very short winter days and extended summer daylight hours, significantly impacting the visitor experience depending on the season.

Best Time to Visit

Beach & Relaxation
June through August when temperatures reach 72-76°F, though Moscow isn't a beach destination - consider nearby lakes and parks during these warmest months.
Cultural Exploration
May through September offer the best balance of comfortable weather (46-76°F) and longer daylight hours for sightseeing and museum visits.
Adventure & Hiking
June through August provide optimal conditions with highs of 72-76°F and manageable rainfall, perfect for exploring Moscow's parks and nearby nature areas.
Budget Travel
November through March offer the lowest tourist crowds and accommodation prices, though you'll need to brave temperatures as low as 16°F.

Month-by-Month Guide

January

The coldest month with harsh winter conditions and temperatures ranging from 16-24°F. Snow covers the city and daylight hours are extremely limited. Indoor attractions and winter festivals provide the main activities during this frigid period.

24°F High
16°F Low
2.1 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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February

Continues the deep winter pattern with similar frigid temperatures of 16-26°F. Slightly less precipitation than January but still very cold and snowy. Days begin to get marginally longer toward month's end.

26°F High
16°F Low
1.7 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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March

The beginning of spring transition with temperatures rising to 24-37°F, though still well below freezing. Snow begins to melt and daylight hours increase noticeably. The driest month of the year with minimal precipitation.

37°F High
24°F Low
1.5 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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April

Spring arrives with much milder temperatures of 36-53°F and the first above-freezing weather. Snow melts away and the city begins to green up. Weather can be unpredictable with occasional cool snaps.

53°F High
36°F Low
1.5 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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May

Pleasant spring weather with comfortable temperatures of 46-66°F. Trees bloom and outdoor activities become enjoyable again. One of the best months to visit with mild conditions and increasing daylight hours.

66°F High
46°F Low
2.4 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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June

Early summer brings warm, pleasant weather with temperatures of 53-72°F. Long daylight hours and comfortable conditions make this ideal for sightseeing. Rainfall increases but weather remains generally favorable for outdoor activities.

72°F High
53°F Low
3.1 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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July

The warmest month with peak summer temperatures of 58-76°F. Despite being the wettest month, July offers the most comfortable weather for all activities. Peak tourist season with long days and ideal conditions for exploring the city.

76°F High
58°F Low
3.3 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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August

Continues the summer warmth with temperatures of 55-72°F, though slightly cooler than July. Still excellent weather for tourism with high rainfall but warm, humid conditions. Days begin to shorten noticeably by month's end.

72°F High
55°F Low
3.1 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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September

Early autumn with cooling temperatures of 46-61°F. Beautiful fall colors emerge and weather remains pleasant for sightseeing. A shoulder season with fewer crowds but still comfortable conditions for most activities.

61°F High
46°F Low
2.6 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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October

Cool autumn weather with temperatures dropping to 37-48°F. Fall foliage peaks and first frost may occur. Higher rainfall and shorter days signal the approach of winter, but still manageable for tourism.

48°F High
37°F Low
2.8 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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November

Late autumn transitions to early winter with cold temperatures of 27-34°F. Snow may begin and daylight hours decrease significantly. Tourist season winds down as weather becomes less favorable for outdoor activities.

34°F High
27°F Low
2.0 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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December

Winter sets in with frigid temperatures of 20-27°F. Snow covers the city and daylight hours reach their minimum. Holiday decorations and winter markets provide some charm, but very cold conditions limit outdoor activities.

27°F High
20°F Low
2.0 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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