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.