Hungary has a continental climate with distinct seasons, and a great variation between winter and summer conditions. During winter (December to February) the weather is bitterly cold, with snow blanketing the ground for weeks and the mighty Danube River freezing over.Most people would say that the best time to visit Hungary is over the summer period (June to August) when the weather is warmer and the attractions are all open. The weather in spring and autumn can be very pleasant too, but temperatures do drop to around 20°F (9°C). Over winter, temperatures approach freezing.Some rain can be expected throughout the year and rainfall is largely dependent on the region as there are variations in weather in Hungary according to location. The west of Hungary, including Budapest, starts warming up after a cold winter in April. The weather in this part of Hungary is hot and humid throughout the summer months, which are the most popular time to visit.Eastern and central Hungary experience hot and dry summers and cold and wet winters. The wind is often strong on the plains and adds to the chill factor. In the south of Hungary, there is a slightly warmer climate and summers are long and hot while winters are shorter and less severe, with temperatures seldom dropping below freezing. In the south, the rainy season is summer.
