Romania Climate Guide
Romania has a temperate-continental climate with four distinct seasons. Its diverse geography — from the Black Sea coast to the Carpathian Mountains — creates significant regional variation.
Key climate facts
Why does the climate vary so much?
The Carpathian Mountains act as a barrier that divides Romania into distinct climate zones. Transylvania, enclosed by mountains, is cooler and wetter. The south and east are more influenced by continental air masses, creating hot summers and cold winters. The Black Sea moderates temperatures along the coast.
Climate by city
| City | Winter low | Summer high | Annual rain | Climate type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bucharest | -3°C | 30°C | 580mm | Continental — hot summers, cold winters |
| Brașov | -6°C | 26°C | 690mm | Cooler plateau — reliable snow in winter |
| Constanța | -1°C | 28°C | 400mm | Semi-arid — mildest winters, hot beach summers |
| Iași | -5°C | 28°C | 550mm | Continental — similar to Bucharest, slightly cooler |
| Cluj-Napoca | -5°C | 26°C | 620mm | Transylvanian plateau — cool and wet |
| Tulcea | -2°C | 29°C | 380mm | Lowest rainfall in Romania — gateway to the Delta |
Seasons at a glance
Spring (Mar–May)
Variable — from cold snaps in March to warm 23°C days in May. Green, uncrowded and ideal for most activities.
Summer (Jun–Aug)
Hot and sunny. Bucharest averages 30°C in July. Black Sea coast peaks at 28°C. Mountain thunderstorms common in afternoon.
Autumn (Sep–Oct)
Warm and dry in September, cooling in October. Often the most pleasant time to travel — warm days, cool nights, foliage.
Winter (Dec–Feb)
Cold with snow. Bucharest averages −3°C at night. Mountains receive heavy snow. Christmas markets and skiing are highlights.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the climate like in Romania?
Romania has a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June–August) are hot and sunny (up to 35°C in Bucharest), winters (December–February) are cold with snow, and spring and autumn are mild and pleasant.
How much does it rain in Romania per year?
Romania averages around 600mm of rainfall per year nationally, though this varies: the Black Sea coast receives only 400mm, while the Carpathian mountain slopes receive over 1,000mm annually.
What is the hottest month in Romania?
July and August are the hottest months, with average highs around 30°C in Bucharest and the southern plains. The Black Sea coast can reach 32–35°C on the hottest days.
Does Romania get a lot of snow?
The mountains receive heavy snowfall — Poiana Brașov typically has 3–4 months of reliable ski snow. In Bucharest, snow falls on average 20–30 days per winter, though it rarely lies for more than a few days.
Which region of Romania has the best weather?
The Black Sea coast (Constanța, Mamaia) enjoys the most sunshine — over 2,300 hours per year. The Transylvania plateau is cooler and cloudier. Bucharest and the southern plains are the hottest in summer.