Weather overview
Лион enjoys a temperate climate with distinct seasons, making it a year-round destination. Winters here are chilly but rarely harsh, while summers bring warmth without extreme heat. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures, ideal for exploring the city’s streets and parks.
In Лионе, January and February are the coldest months, with daytime highs around +7 °C and occasional frost. By April, the weather warms up noticeably, and June through August sees the most pleasant conditions, with temperatures often reaching +26...+29 °C. Autumn arrives gently, with September still feeling like summer, while November brings cooler air and more rain.
Temperature
The temperature in Лионе varies significantly between seasons. In winter, average highs hover around +7 °C in December and +7.2 °C in January, while nights can drop to +1.8 °C. Summer, on the other hand, is comfortably warm, with July and August averaging +28.7...+28.9 °C during the day and +17.5...+17.6 °C at night.
Spring and autumn in Лионе are mild, with gradual transitions. March starts with +9.3 °C on average, but by May, temperatures rise to +16.2 °C, making it a great time for outdoor activities. October sees a cooling trend, with averages around +14.3 °C, while November brings a sharper drop to +8.3 °C, signaling the approach of winter.
| Month | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| January | 1.8 | 7.2 |
| February | 3.3 | 11 |
| March | 5 | 14.2 |
| April | 7.6 | 17.3 |
| May | 11.5 | 21 |
| June | 16.2 | 26.4 |
| July | 17.6 | 28.9 |
| August | 17.5 | 28.7 |
| September | 14 | 24.4 |
| October | 10.5 | 18.7 |
| November | 5.5 | 11.5 |
| December | 2.5 | 8 |
Precipitation
Лион receives steady rainfall throughout the year, though some months are wetter than others. October is the rainiest, with 113.4 mm of precipitation, while February is the driest, averaging just 37.3 mm. Summer months like July are relatively dry, with 44.9 mm of rain, making it a popular time to visit.
Rain in Лионе is spread across the year, but autumn tends to be the wettest season. September through November sees frequent showers, with November bringing 70.1 mm of rain. Spring also has its share of precipitation, particularly in May, which records 86.1 mm. Even in summer, brief rain showers can occur, so packing a light jacket is always a good idea.
| Month | Precipitation |
|---|---|
| January | 54.8 |
| February | 37.3 |
| March | 65.6 |
| April | 60 |
| May | 86.1 |
| June | 90.5 |
| July | 44.9 |
| August | 63.6 |
| September | 58 |
| October | 113.4 |
| November | 70.1 |
| December | 74.3 |
What to pack
For a trip to Лион in winter, pack warm layers, including a coat, scarf, and gloves, as temperatures can dip near 0 °C at night. A waterproof jacket is useful, especially in December and January, when rain or occasional snow is possible. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the city’s historic districts.
In spring and autumn, Лион’s weather can be unpredictable, so versatile clothing is key. Light sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, and a light jacket will keep you comfortable in March through May and September through November. A compact umbrella is handy for sudden showers, particularly in October and November.
Summer in Лионе calls for breathable fabrics, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as temperatures often reach +28 °C or higher. A hat and comfortable sandals are ideal for sightseeing, while a light scarf or shawl can be useful for cooler evenings. If you plan to visit in July or August, pack a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated while exploring the city.
| Month | Wind speed |
|---|---|
| January | 3.6 |
| February | 3.3 |
| March | — |
| April | 3.7 |
| May | 3.3 |
| June | 3.2 |
| July | 3.1 |
| August | 2.9 |
| September | 2.9 |
| October | 3.2 |
| November | 2.9 |
| December | 3.2 |