Climate and monthly weather forecast
Marseille, France

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St. Jean Castle and the Cathedral de la Major, in the port of Marseille in France
St. Jean Castle and the Cathedral de la Major, in the port of Marseille in France

The climate of Marseille

The city of Marseille, located on France's sunbaked southern coast, enjoys a Mediterranean climate, classified scientifically as Csa by the Köppen system. This particular category is characterized by hot summers with moderate to high temperatures, and winters that offer a cooler counterbalance. The wide-ranging outcomes of such a climatological arrangement remain variable throughout the year.

An exploration of the city's average weather reveals a multi-layered seasonal profile. High temperatures are noted from 10.4°C (50.7°F) in January, reaching a peak of 27.3°C (81.1°F) in August. However, the warm season extends from June to September when the temperatures comfortably remain above 20°C (68°F). On the contrary, cooler weather rules from December to February when low temperatures range from 6.1°C (43°F) to 7.4°C (45.3°F).

The city gets drenched in rainfall mainly in November with a measure of around 77mm (3.03"). Months with scanty rainfall span from June to September, experiencing below 30mm (1.18"). On the other hand, humidity levels remain relatively stable, portraying a balanced figure ranging between 63% in August and 75% in November.

The incidence of snowfall in Marseille is rare, with just three months, January, February and December, reporting minimal events. Additionally, slightly gusty winds dominate the city, averaging between 14.6km/h (9.1mph) and 21.5km/h (13.4mph) across the year.

The best time to visit Marseille

When contemplating a visit to Marseille, the months from June to September provide a prime opportunity for travellers. This period offers a warm, inviting climate with average temperatures soaring above 20°C (68°F). Coupled with a relative humidity level that reaches a comfortable low of 63% to 67%, the environmental conditions are ideal for outdoors exploration. Notably, the city bathes in an extended daylight duration, from 13.9h in June to 15h in July, facilitating long sightseeing days. The sea temperatures are also pleasantly warm during this period, going up to 21.9°C (71.4°F) in September, making a dip in the stunning Mediterranean beaches irresistible.

The worst time to visit Marseille

Marseille sees its least congenial weather phase from November to January. The conditions during these months are characterized by an increase in both rainfall and humidity levels. With the highest precipitation of 77mm (3.03") recorded in November, outdoor activities are potentially hampered, and sightseeing plans might be significantly disrupted. The low temperatures, ranging from 6.3°C (43.3°F) to 7.4°C (45.3°F) in these months, also sustain a rather chilly environment that might not be to everyone's liking.

Spring weather in Marseille

From March to May, Marseille steps into the spring season marked by a steady climb in temperatures. The month of March starts with moderate highs of 13.9°C (57°F) which gradually increase to 19.7°C (67.5°F) in May. Concurrently, the low temperatures show a similar trend, moving from 8.6°C (47.5°F) in March to 13.8°C (56.8°F) in May. The increase in sunshine, peaking at 11.1h in May, offers a welcome departure from the preceding winter months.

Summer weather in Marseille

The summer months, from June to August, witness Marseille basking in high temperatures that can hit a peak of 27.3°C (81.1°F). Equally, the low temperatures maintain a warm profile, peaking at 20.8°C (69.4°F) by August. Median rainfall amounts drop significantly during this period, offering an arid but balmy atmosphere. With the longest sunshine duration, approximately 12.1h in June and July, these months provide optimum daylight for outdoor activities.

Autumn weather in Marseille

The autumn season, spanning September to November, signals a subtle transition in Marseille’s weather. Temperature highs start from 23.7°C (74.7°F) in September and taper down to 14.6°C (58.3°F) by November. On the other hand, low temperatures follow the same downward trend, starting from 17.6°C (63.7°F) and lessening to 10.5°C (50.9°F). The frequency of rainfall starts to spike in October, culminating in November with a hefty average precipitation of 77mm (3.03").

Winter weather in Marseille

Winter in Marseille spreads from December to February, with January hosting the coldest temperatures. During this period, the city’s temperature highs range from 11.5°C (52.7°F) to 10.4°C (50.7°F) and the lows hover between 6.3°C (43.3°F) and 7.4°C (45.3°F). Rainfall during this season is considerable but lower than the autumn months, with an average accumulation of 33mm (1.3") in December and 32mm (1.26") in January. Although the city sees sporadic snowfall events, they are generally minimal and far between. The daylight duration is the shortest in the year, falling to 9h in December and January, limiting outdoor activities.

Weather in January

In Marseille, France, the year starts off on a rather mild note, with the temperatures gently swaying between 6.3°C (43.3°F) and 10.4°C (50.7°F). The moderate weather persists throughout the month, making the climate in January in Marseille pleasing, especially for tourists seeking to avoid extreme weather conditions. Weather in January »

Weather in February

The climate trends slightly upward in February in Marseille, but it maintains a mild temperature range. A nudge comes in the form of increased intensity of sea breezes with pressure drops to 1015.4mb, instigating climatic changes. Weather in February »

Weather in March

March sees an obvious rise in temperature, both in the highs of 13.9°C (57°F) and lows of 8.6°C (47.5°F). As spring begins to set foot, Marseille's weather shows dynamic shifts and increasing daylight hours. The accommodation of a higher UV index of 4 suggests pleasant sunshine, contrasted by occasional light showers. Weather in March »

Weather in April

The weather pattern undergoes a significant change in April, with the emergence of warmer and longer days. A significant shift in the weather in Marseille is detemined by the rise in the sea temperature to 14.5°C (58.1°F), creating an enjoyable atmosphere for sea bathing. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May marks the beginning of the summer season, bringing color and vivaciousness to the city of Marseille. The city features more sunshine, warm temperatures, and fewer rainy days, imbuing it with the spirit of the summertime. The month shows pronounced changes like an increased temperature of 19.7°C (67.5°F) and decreasing rainfall, moving more towards the dry side. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June is a delightful month in Marseille, falling right in the middle of summertime, with beach visits becoming a routine. Marseille continues witnessing elevated temperatures up to 23.9°C (75°F), with a significant drop in the rain, culminating to 24mm (0.94") only. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July brings the peak of the summer season in Marseille, usually filled with loads of sunshine and warmth. The temperature in Marseille hits a maximum of 27.1°C (80.8°F), setting up a warm and dry climate. The city shines under the highest daylight hours observed in the year and experiences the least humidity. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August offers the warmest sea temperature of the year at 21.9°C (71.4°F), attracting swimmers and water sports enthusiasts. Balmy temperatures, clear skies, and relatively low chances of rainfall come together to maintain a summertime charm in Marseille. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September witnesses a transition from summer to autumn, with a gradual decrease in temperature and daylight hours. The change in the season is seen with decent rainfall of 28mm (1.1"), likely to maintain the lushness of the city. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Marseille accentuates the hint of autumn with a significantly increased rainfall of 63mm (2.48"). The climate gets milder with reduced temperatures and less sunshine hours, yet it remains pleasant. Slightly risen wind speeds bring about cooler air, which matches the drop in the nighttime temperatures. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November signifies a further drop in the temperatures, decreased daylight and sunshine hours, signifying the arrival of winter. Marseille's weather in this month experiences the highest rainfall of 77mm (3.03"), contributing to a wet month. Weather in November »

Weather in December

The last month of the year exhibits typical winter weather patterns with a temperature dipping to 7.4°C (45.3°F). Moderate rainfall is seen with decreased daylight and sunshine hours, indicating the ongoing winter season. Cooler winds, higher cloud cover, and increased pressure of 1019.3mb are distinctive features for December. Weather in December »
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Frequently asked questions

What is the coldest month in Marseille?

Marseille experiences its average lowest temperatures in January, reaching a peak of 10.4°C (50.7°F) and a minimum of 6.3°C (43.3°F).

How much does it rain in Marseille?

Throughout the year, there are 106.6 rainfall days, and 428mm (16.85") of precipitation is accumulated.

When it does not snow in Marseille?

January, April through December are months without snowfall in Marseille, France.

How many days does it snow in Marseille?

In Marseille, during the entire year, snow falls for 1.1 days and aggregates up to 3mm (0.12") of snow.

What are the months with the least sunshine in Marseille?

The months with the least sunshine in Marseille are January and November, with an average of 6.1h of sunshine.

What is the month with the lowest UV index in Marseille?

January, February, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 3, are months with the lowest UV index.

When does it snow in Marseille?

February and March are months with snowfall.

When does it snow the most in Marseille?

The month with the most snowfall is February, when snow falls for 0.8 days and typically aggregates up to 2mm (0.08") of snow.

What month is the sea coldest in Marseille?

February is the month with the coldest seawater, with an average sea temperature of 12.9°C (55.2°F).

When are the longest days in Marseille?

The month with the longest days in Marseille is June, with an average of 15h and 18min of daylight.

What is the month with the most sunshine in Marseille?

June and July, with an average of 12.1h of sunshine, are months with the most sunshine.

When is the highest UV index in Marseille?

June through August, with an average maximum UV index of 6, are months with the highest UV index.

What is the driest month in Marseille?

July is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 4.8 days and accumulates 12mm (0.47") of precipitation.

What month is the hottest in Marseille?

The average temperatures in Marseille reach their apex in August, averaging 27.3°C (81.1°F) at the high end and 20.8°C (69.4°F) at the low end.

What is the least humid month in Marseille?

The least humid month in Marseille is August, with an average relative humidity of 63%.

What are the months with the warmest sea water in Marseille?

August and September, with an average sea temperature of 21.9°C (71.4°F), are months with the warmest seawater in Marseille, France.

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Marseille?

On Sunday, 27. October 2024, at 03:00, Daylight Saving Time ends, and the time zone changes from CEST to CET. The next Daylight Saving Time starts on Sunday, 30. March 2025, at 02:00, and the time zone reverts from CET to CEST.

What is the most humid month in Marseille?

The most humid month is November, with an average relative humidity of 75%.

What is the wettest month in Marseille?

The month with the most rainfall in Marseille is November, when the rain falls for 12.2 days and typically aggregates up to 77mm (3.03") of precipitation.

What is the month with the shortest days in Marseille?

The month with the shortest days is December, with an average of 9h and 0min of daylight.

Average temperature
Marseille, France

Average temperature - Marseille, France

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is August (27.3°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (10.4°C).

The month with the highest average low temperature is August (20.8°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is February (6.1°C).

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Average pressure
Marseille, France

Average pressure - Marseille, France

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is December (1019.3mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is November (1014.2mbar).

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Average wind speed
Marseille, France

Average wind speed - Marseille, France

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is February (21.5km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (14.6km/h).

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Average humidity
Marseille, France

Average humidity - Marseille, France

The month with the highest relative humidity is November (75%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is August (63%).

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Average rainfall
Marseille, France

Average rainfall - Marseille, France

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is November (77mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is July (12mm).

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Average rainfall days
Marseille, France

Average rainfall days - Marseille, France

The month with the highest number of rainy days is November (12.2 days).
The month with the least rainy days is July (4.8 days).

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Average snowfall
Marseille, France

Average snowfall - Marseille, France

The month with the highest snowfall is February (2mm).
The months with the least snowfall are January, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (0mm).

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Average snowfall days
Marseille, France

Average snowfall days - Marseille, France

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is February (0.8 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November (0 days).

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Average sea temperature
Marseille, France

Average sea temperature - Marseille, France

The best months for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) are August and September (21.9°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is February (12.9°C).

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Average daylight / Average sunshine
Marseille, France

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Marseille, France

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 18min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 0min).

The months with the most sunshine are June and July (Average sunshine: 12h and 6min).
The months with the least sunshine are January and November (Average sunshine: 6h and 6min).

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Average sunshine days
Marseille, France

Average sunshine days - Marseille, France

The month with the most sunshine days is July (24.3 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is April (16.3 days).

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Average UV index
Marseille, France

Average UV index - Marseille, France

The months with the highest UV index are June, July and August (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, November and December (UV index 3).

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Average visibility
Marseille, France

Average visibility - Marseille, France

The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).

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Marseille, France

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