Year-Round Weather and Climate Guide for Zagreb

Climate Overview

Zagreb features a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Its geographical position between the southern slopes of Mount Medvednica and the Sava River plain creates unique weather dynamics. While the city experiences cold, often snowy winters, it transitions into warm, vibrant summers with significant variations in daylight and temperature.

The Daily Rhythm

In Zagreb, the climate behaves differently depending on the altitude and proximity to the river.

• Mornings: Especially in late autumn and winter, the city is notorious for its heavy morning fog, trapped by the surrounding hills.
• Afternoons: In summer, the heat peaks around 3:00 PM. Locals often adopt a Mediterranean-style rhythm, retreating to the shade of the Lower Town’s parks or the forest trails of Medvednica to escape the stifling urban heat.
• Evenings: Even after a hot day, temperatures tend to drop pleasantly after sunset, particularly in May and September, making terrace culture a cornerstone of local life.

Seasonal Trends

Spring (March – May)

Spring is a season of awakening and moderate rainfall. Temperatures rise from an average high of 13°C (55°F) in March to 22°C (72°F) by late May. It is a transition period where the "feeling" of the weather changes rapidly from crisp, winter-tinged air to the balmy warmth that signals the start of the outdoor coffee season.

Summer (June – August)

Summers are warm to hot, with average highs of 27°C (81°F). However, heatwaves can push temperatures toward 35°C (95°F). June is statistically one of the wettest months, often seeing short, intense afternoon thunderstorms. The humidity can make the air feel "heavy" or muggy, particularly in July.

Autumn (September – November)

September remains pleasant and is often considered the best month to visit, with warm days and cool nights. By November, the climate shifts toward damp, grey, and windy conditions. Rainfall is consistent, and the city begins to settle into its famous "grey phase" with lower visibility and increased humidity.

Winter (December – February)

Winters are cold and crispy. January is the coldest month, with lows averaging -3°C (27°F). Snowfall is common and can accumulate significantly, especially on the nearby mountains. The "feel" is biting and dry when the northern winds blow, but the city center often stays a few degrees warmer than the outskirts due to the urban heat island effect.

Microclimates and Variations

Zagreb's topography creates two distinct microclimates:

• The Medvednica Slopes: These northern areas are consistently 3–5°C cooler than the city center and receive more snowfall and rainfall. They act as a lungs for the city, providing cooler air flows.
• The Sava River Basin: The southern parts of the city near the river experience higher humidity and are more prone to dense, low-lying fog during winter inversions.

Local Adaptations and Phenomena

• Magla (The Fog): Locals are well-accustomed to the thick winter fog that can ground flights and hide the cathedral spires for days. It creates a quiet, mysterious atmosphere in the Upper Town.
• The Medvednica Shield: Mount Medvednica protects the city from the harshest northern continental winds, which would otherwise make the winters much more severe.
• Terrace Culture: Even in winter, you will see locals sitting outside under heat lamps with blankets provided by cafes. This "defiance" of the cold is a central part of Zagreb's social identity, where regardless of the thermometer, life happens outdoors as long as the sun is shining.