August in Germany: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Everyone in Germany eagerly looks forward to summer and August is the high time for travel in Europe. In August, vacations are in progress, bikes are rolling, biergartens are in full swing and feierabend (end of work day) seems to creep up earlier and earlier.

However, that also means more crowds, occasionally blistering temperatures, high prices, and closures as business owners may also be away during this time. Nevertheless, there are many things to do in Germany in August. Here is everything you need to know to visit Germany in August from weather to what to pack to what to see.

Weather in Germany in August

The climate in Germany is moderate with four distinct seasons. Some areas, such as the northern coastline, feature a maritime influence but the weather in August throughout the country is generally warm with occasional peak hot days. The average high for the country is 76 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius) and the low is 55 degrees Fahrenheit (13 degrees Celsius). It is usually warmest in the south of Germany. The Palatinate wine region in the southwest is even blessed with a Mediterranean climate so exotic fruits like figs, lemons, and kiwis grow.

Humidity can be oppressive, and the wind is often non-existent, so the only escape from the heat is a swim (or a freezing shower). Days are long and light-filled with an average of eight hours of sunshine each day, the sun refusing to go down til the beginning of party hours at 9 p.m.

What to Pack for Germany in August

This is the time of year to pack your warm weather clothes, like shorts and a tank top, but never forget to pack a few light layers as the weather in Germany is unpredictable. Be prepared for a cool breeze at night or a sudden rain shower with a light sweater and rain jacket. Luckily, bad weather usually passes quickly.

Also be sure to include a swimsuit in your suitcase (or don't) as swimming is one of the top sources for enjoyment in summer. And what footwear could be more appropriate than a pair of Birkenstocks?

August Events in Germany

German summer is full of epic festivals and outdoor activities.

• Stadtfest: Almost every German city organizes a city festival in summer with many occurring in August. There is live music, carnival rides, fireworks, and lots of food and drink. Harbor cities usually have a seaside version called a hafenfest centering on the water. The largest festival on land in one of the Hamburg DOM that runs from late July throughout August.
• Biermeile Berliner: Walk through a mile of beer stands for Berlin's International Beer Festival during the first weekend in August.
• Rhine in Flames (Rhein in Flammen): Towns along the Rhine River holds five different firework-lit festivals throughout the summer season with some of the best happening in August.

August Travel Tips for Germany

• Prices are highest in August for flights to Germany and many accommodations and attractions once you are in the country. Be prepared to pay more than the shoulder seasons of the coming fall or spring.
• Weather in August can be disappointing, but when it is hot, it is really hot. Air conditioning is rare so there is no escape. An increasing number of hotels offer this feature, but be prepared to sweat a bit.
• Also be aware that despite the popularity of travel in August, some attractions, hotels, restaurants, and even transport options may have limited hours or be closed at this time. Business owners also go on vacation and may choose August for their month to travel.
• Wasps are a frequent nuisance in August. Cover your food, limit your use of perfumes, and keep an eye out when dining out.
• Ice cream (eis) is a summer essential. Germans of all ages devour the delicious treat whenever the sun is shining.

To learn more about visiting in August, check out our guide on the best time to visit Germany.