Weather overview
Veliky Novgorod has a temperate continental climate with distinct seasons, each offering a different experience for travelers. Winters in Veliky Novgorod are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers bring mild warmth and longer daylight hours. The transition months—spring and autumn—can be unpredictable, with rapid shifts in weather.
If you prefer milder conditions, May through September are the most comfortable months to visit Veliky Novgorod. During this period, temperatures range from +12 °C to +24 °C, making it ideal for exploring the city’s historical sites and outdoor attractions. Winters, though harsh, have their own charm, especially if you enjoy snow-covered landscapes and festive atmospheres.
Temperature
In Veliky Novgorod, winter temperatures typically hover around -5 °C in January and February, with nighttime lows reaching -8 °C or colder. By March, the cold begins to ease, though frosts can still occur. April marks the start of spring, with daytime highs climbing to +11 °C, while nights remain chilly.
Summer in Veliky Novgorod is short but pleasant. July is the warmest month, with average highs of +24 °C and lows around +14 °C. June and August are nearly as warm, offering comfortable conditions for sightseeing. By September, temperatures start to drop, and by October, the city cools significantly, with highs around +10 °C and lows near +3 °C.
Autumn in Veliky Novgorod is brief, with November already feeling like winter, as temperatures drop to near freezing. December brings full winter conditions, with averages around -3 °C and occasional snowfall.
| Month | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| January | -8.4 | -2.7 |
| February | -8.4 | -2.6 |
| March | -5 | 3.9 |
| April | 1.4 | 11.2 |
| May | 6.3 | 16.6 |
| June | 11.7 | 22.4 |
| July | 14.1 | 24.6 |
| August | 13 | 22.7 |
| September | 8.1 | 17.3 |
| October | 2.7 | 9.7 |
| November | -1.3 | 2.7 |
| December | -8.9 | -2.4 |
Precipitation
Rainfall in Veliky Novgorod is spread throughout the year, but the wettest months are June, July, and August, when precipitation reaches 70–94 mm per month. These months can bring occasional showers, so packing a light rain jacket is advisable if you visit during this time.
Winter months in Veliky Novgorod see less precipitation, though snowfall is common. January and February are the driest, with around 40–50 mm of precipitation, mostly in the form of snow. Spring and autumn see moderate rainfall, with April and October each receiving about 40–70 mm.
While Veliky Novgorod doesn’t experience extreme wet or dry seasons, the summer months tend to be the most unpredictable in terms of rain. If you prefer drier conditions, March and September are good alternatives, with lower precipitation levels.
| Month | Precipitation |
|---|---|
| January | 49 |
| February | 41.7 |
| March | 33.8 |
| April | 41.6 |
| May | 42.2 |
| June | 73.9 |
| July | 94 |
| August | 90.4 |
| September | 44.1 |
| October | 72.3 |
| November | 62.8 |
| December | 57.6 |
What to pack
For a winter trip to Veliky Novgorod, pack warm layers, including a heavy coat, gloves, a hat, and waterproof boots. Temperatures can drop below -8 °C, so thermal clothing is essential. If you plan to explore outdoor sites, consider bringing traction devices for icy sidewalks.
In spring and autumn, layering is key. April and October can be cool, with temperatures ranging from +3 °C to +11 °C, so a light jacket or sweater is useful. A compact umbrella or raincoat will help you stay dry during occasional showers.
Summer in Veliky Novgorod is mild, so lightweight clothing is ideal. However, evenings can be cool, so a light jacket or long sleeves are recommended. If you visit in June or July, a rain jacket or umbrella may come in handy for sudden showers.
| Month | Wind speed |
|---|---|
| January | 4.8 |
| February | 4 |
| March | 3.7 |
| April | 3.6 |
| May | 3.9 |
| June | 3.6 |
| July | 3.4 |
| August | 3.4 |
| September | 3.9 |
| October | 4.3 |
| November | 4.2 |
| December | 3.8 |