Weather in Germany in October

October is peaceful, vibrant, and filled with fall traditions, perfect for travelers looking for seasonal charm with fewer crowds. Particularly picturesque are the forested areas like the Black Forest or Saxon Switzerland, which are ablaze with the hues of fall. The weather in Germany in October becomes chilly and more unpredictable. Rainfall picks up throughout much of the country, and fog is widespread in valleys and around rivers. It gets cold in the evenings, so taking a warm coat is crucial. Although many outdoor attractions start to close for the season, museums and cultural sites are still in full swing.

Germany in October at a glance

Golden leaves and misty mornings define the environment throughout Germany in October. This month is a favorite for scenic road trips, harvest festivals, and the closing weeks of Munich’s Oktoberfest.

• October’s typical temperatures range from 45°F to 60°F (7°C to 16°C), with chillier nights and a high risk of fog or light rain, particularly in forested and rural areas.
• Both nature and culture lovers will enjoy visiting Germany in October. Shades of orange, red, and yellow blanket the landscape, while wine tastings and local culinary festivals are popular.
• The Black Forest, Saxony, and along the Rhine are all magnificent in the fall, with October being the most scenic month of fall to travel.
• As Oktoberfest concludes in early October, tourist numbers slowly decline, allowing for a more relaxed pace at museums and historic towns and cities.
• During October, accommodation and travel costs are usually reasonable; however, in Munich, rates may be inflated until Oktoberfest comes to an end.

Is October a good time to visit Germany?

Visiting Germany in fall is all about taking in nature’s changing colors and experiencing the rich local culture at a more leisurely, reflective pace. Many consider this season the best time to visit Germany if you’re after fewer crowds, cooler weather, and a more laid-back atmosphere. Compared to summer, the fall weather in Germany in October is much cooler, but the crisp air and golden foliage bring a touch of seasonal warmth.

The fall shades reach their peak in October, especially in areas like the Black Forest and along the Romantic Road. If your Germany itinerary includes outdoor adventures and regional traditions, this is the perfect month for appreciating the landscape with activities like hiking in the Bavarian Forest, taking in a scenic drive through Saxony, or attending regional food festivals. The famous Oktoberfest comes to an end during the first week, but several towns continue to host local harvest celebrations.

Fewer tourists travel in October, especially after the first week, which makes the nation’s cities feel cozier. Generally, reduced visitor numbers at indoor attractions mean no waiting in line, and accommodations and tours do not need to be booked in advance. Costs for flights and lodgings are reasonable, except during regional events or school vacations.

Average daily temperatures in October

The average temperatures across Germany in October cool significantly, and morning fog and light frost may appear in higher areas. 

Regional differences occur in temperatures. For instance, the average high temperature in Berlin is around 55°F (13°C), while nighttime lows drop to around 43°F (6°C). In southern cities like Munich and Nuremberg, highs are typically a bit warmer at about 58°F (14°C), with overnight lows around 44°F (7°C).

High temperatures in northern Germany are roughly around 55°F (13°C), while nighttime lows tend to be lower than in other parts of the country, averaging 41°F (5°C). The breeze can make days feel cooler, particularly along the coast. Central and western parts of the country, including Cologne and the Rhine region, typically see highs of around 61°F (16°C) and nighttime lows of about 47°F (8°C).

What about the crowds and cost?

Crowds noticeably decline in October, especially after Oktoberfest finishes early in the month. This makes sightseeing more relaxed and allows easier access to well-known tourist spots without being hampered by too many people. If you're planning a trip to Germany in the fall, this quieter period offers flexibility; lower tourist numbers mean you can book accommodations wherever and whenever without having to plan far ahead.

Value-conscious travelers to Germany will be happy to know that visiting during this shoulder season comes with cost-saving perks. Although not the cheapest time to go, rates for accommodations, excursions, and transport are significantly lower than in the summer, especially in mid- and late October.

Things to do in Germany in October

October's vibrant fall colors make it a terrific month for photography. Touring the countryside and visiting vineyards are excellent ways to appreciate Germany's natural beauty at this time of year. Some of the best places to visit in Germany during October include wine regions like the Moselle Valley, the Black Forest, and the scenic routes along the Romantic Road, where fall truly puts on a show.

Hike the Bavarian Forest

In October, the Bavarian Forest National Park is a riot of red and gold. Trails that wind through lush forests, across moors, and beside rivers provide tranquil escapes and the opportunity to take wonderful photos.

Tour the castles of Thuringia

Germany’s central region is home to numerous fairytale castles, such as Schloss Wartburg and Schloss Friedenstein, which are dramatically framed by beautiful fall foliage in October.

Cycle along the Moselle River

Delightful towns with timber frame buildings and vineyards encircle the Moselle River, where indulging in local seasonal cuisine is a favorite pastime. The fresh, bright weather in Germany in October is perfect for exploring the area by bike.

Stroll the old streets of Quedlinburg

This UNESCO World Heritage town of Quedlinburg boasts over 1,300 half-timbered houses; its peaceful squares and cobbled streets make you feel as though you've entered a fairy tale.

Take a scenic drive through Saxony

Touring the rural roads of Saxony, which stretch from the Elbe Valley to the Ore Mountains, uncovers breathtaking vistas and charming villages surrounded by dazzling fall scenery.

Festivals and events in Germany in October

The events that take place throughout October celebrate the best of fall in Germany, from harvest festivals and local traditions to international cinema.

• Frankfurt Book Fair: One of the largest publishing events in the world, this fair draws authors, publishers, and readers from all corners of the globe.
• Cannstatter Volksfest: A massive folk festival similar to Oktoberfest takes place in Stuttgart each year, with beer tents, traditional attire, and amusement rides, rooted in regional culture and agriculture.
• Lichtfestival: This light art festival transforms Berlin’s landmarks into illuminated installations, blending creativity and history after dark.