Cologne, Germany's November Weather: What To Expect

If you're planning a trip to Cologne, Germany in November, you can expect cold, windy, and rainy weather. The average temperature ranges from a high of 49°F (9°C) to a low of 37°F (3°C), and there's a 31% chance of rain on any given day. With limited sunshine, November in Cologne offers a cooler, cloudier climate. So, if you're packing for a trip to Cologne in November, make sure to bring warm clothes and layers to protect yourself from the elements.

Average temperatures

November in Cologne is chilly, with average temperatures ranging from 3.1°C (37.6°F) to 9.5°C (49.1°F). During the day, the temperature typically reaches 9°C to 10°C, but it can feel much colder due to windchill and humidity. At night, temperatures drop to a chilly 3°C to 5°C. With such cool temperatures, any breeze will feel cold, so be sure to pack accordingly.

The average high temperature in November is 9.5°C (49.1°F), a noticeable drop from October's average of 15.1°C (59.2°F). The average low temperature is 3.1°C (37.6°F). However, these temperatures can fluctuate throughout the month, with the average maximum temperature decreasing from 59°F at the beginning of the month to 41°F by the end.

To stay warm during your visit to Cologne in November, it is recommended to wear layers of clothing that will keep you warm and dry in the event of rain or wind. Light wool or wool-blend sweaters, hardshell jackets, softshell jackets, and fleece vests are good options.

While the UV index is typically low in November, it is still advisable to apply a small amount of sunscreen to exposed skin if you plan to spend extended periods outdoors.

Rainfall

Cologne in November is a chilly and rainy month. You can expect rain on approximately 16 to 17 days, with a total monthly rainfall of about 58 mm to 72 mm. The rain in Cologne during November is often light, with a maximum daily precipitation of around 13 mm. The number of rainy days in November is lower than in January and December, which have 18 rainy days on average.

The weather in Cologne in November is changeable, and it is recommended to pack for every eventuality. It is a good idea to bring a mix of clothing suitable for both indoor and outdoor activities. The average temperature during the day is around 9°C to 10°C, while the nighttime temperature can fall to between 3°C and 5°C. The UV index is typically low during this time of year, but it is still advisable to apply sunscreen when spending extended periods outdoors.

The rain in November can be described as a "wet cold" that "will creep into you no matter what you wear." The humid air can make the temperature feel even colder than it is. It is advisable to wear warm and waterproof clothing, such as wool or wool-blend sweaters, hardshell jackets, softshell jackets, and fleece vests. Dressing in layers is also recommended.

The wind speed in November is moderate, with an average of 4 m/s to 5 m/s, which can make the cool air temperatures feel even colder. Overall, Cologne in November experiences a significant amount of rainfall, and it is important to be prepared for wet and windy conditions.

Daylight hours

On the first day of November, sunrise is typically around 7:25 am, and sunset occurs at 5:06 pm. However, by the end of the month, the days have shortened further, with sunrise at 8:12 am and sunset at 4:29 pm. This equates to a total daylight duration of around 8 hours and 17 minutes on the last day of November.

The shorter daylight hours in November are due to the transition from autumn to winter in the Northern Hemisphere, where Cologne is located. This time of year is known for its decreasing daylight and colder temperatures, and Cologne is no exception.

The limited daylight hours in November can impact outdoor activities and sightseeing, so it is essential to plan accordingly if visiting Cologne during this time. However, the city still offers plenty of cultural attractions and indoor activities to enjoy, ensuring that visitors can make the most of their time in this vibrant German city, even with fewer daylight hours.

Additionally, the shorter days in November can create a cosy atmosphere, with the twinkling lights of the city adding to its charm. It is a great time to wrap up warm, explore the festive season offerings, and enjoy the unique ambiance of Cologne during this season.

Sunshine hours

Cologne in November is chilly, with temperatures reaching around 10°C during the daytime and falling to 3°C-5°C at night. You can expect an average of 1.8 to 2 hours of sunshine per day, so about 20% of daylight hours. This is comparable to the UK and many other north European countries.

The UV index will be low, but it's always a good idea to apply sunscreen to exposed skin if you plan to be outside for long periods. You might want to pack layers and a warm coat, as the cool air and any breeze will feel cold.

There are usually 6-17 rainy days during the month, with a total monthly rainfall of 59.7mm-72mm. That's considered dry and comparable to the amount of rain seen in England during the summer months. There's a small chance of a thunderstorm, and possibly snow, but not as much as you might expect.

November is a good time to visit Cologne as the weather is generally fine, and there are plenty of cultural attractions to explore.

Clothing to pack

Cologne in November is chilly, with an average high temperature of around 9°C-10°C during the daytime, falling to 3°C-5°C at night. It's also likely to be rainy, with an average of 6-17 rainy days and 59.7-72mm of rainfall in total. So, when packing for Cologne in November, it's important to bring clothes that will keep you warm and dry.

First and foremost, make sure to pack a warm coat. A long, waterproof coat will be ideal to protect you from the cold and the rain. Additionally, bring a mix of sweaters and jackets that you can layer, as layering is key to staying warm. Avoid 100% acrylic knits, as they may not provide sufficient warmth. Instead, opt for light wool or wool-blend sweaters, which can be paired with a hardshell jacket or a softshell jacket and a fleece vest.

For your lower body, pack a pair of comfortable, waterproof trousers or pants. Jeans can also be an option, but make sure they are not too tight, as you want to allow for some airflow and prevent sweat from building up. Additionally, bring some waterproof shoes or boots with good traction to keep your feet dry and provide stability when walking on wet or icy surfaces.

Don't forget to pack some warmer accessories as well, such as a scarf, a beanie or a warm hat, and gloves. These items will help you retain heat and protect your extremities from the cold.

While the UV index is typically low in November, it's still a good idea to bring sunglasses for those sunny days. You may also want to pack some sunscreen, especially if you plan on spending extended periods outdoors.

Finally, bring some comfortable indoor clothing as well. Sweats, leggings, or other comfortable pants and a few t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, or sweaters will ensure you stay cosy while relaxing inside.

Frequently asked questions