Clear skies and warm weather are often a must when planning a European city getaway, but they’re hard to guarantee outside of the peak summer months.
From September onwards, rainfall forecasts are something to consider before jetting off across the continent, with some countries faring better than others on the weather front.
Those willing to embrace a more atmospheric side of travel, however, may see Europe’s rainiest spots as a desirable autumn destination, and some are incredibly close to home.
The team at holidu searched for Europe’s rainiest cities by looking at the average number of rainy days per month and the average daily rainfall statistics. Data revealed that the continent’s rainiest city has a whopping 13 rainy days a month on average, but it isn’t in the UK.
Four British cities found themselves on the list of rain hotspots, though it was a metropolitan destination in the Fjords that took the top spot.
1. Bergen, Norway
Europe’s rainiest cities may not guarantee sunshine but they offer an enchanting allure nonetheless, and Bergen does exactly that. Officially the rainiest city in Europe with 13 rainy days per month, and 9mm of rain per day on average, tourists will want to pack a raincoat if they’re going on holiday in Bergen – and a good one too.
The famous Norwegian saying, “There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing”, couldn’t be more apt in this city, though luckily Bergen is well-equipped for wet weather. There’s no shortage of restaurants and cafes that offer shelter and great food, plus plenty of museums and galleries to explore.
For those willing to brave the showers in the hope of eventual bright sunshine, Bergen is filled with lush nature that’s made better by the rain. So when visiting, bring everything from a swimsuit to your warmest wool, because the weather in Norway is unpredictable.
2. Sunderland, England
Sunderland was the wettest city in the UK with 11 rainy days a month on average. The northeastern city is close to some of England’s prettiest beaches, however, so those who brave the weather may find an empty beach as their reward – perhaps even with some sunshine.
Like most spots in England, the weather is especially bad in the winter months of December and January when the average is 15 rainy days per month. According to World Weather Online, the fewest rainy days occur in April (seven per month), but museums and of course, cafes and restaurants are open all year round for shelter.
3. Glasgow, Scotland
Glasgow was Scotland’s rainiest city and the third wettest city in Europe. This Scottish destination has a maritime climate to thank for the weather due to its northern location and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.
The most rain falls in January and December (14 rainy days per month on average), and the least in April (eight rainy days). On average, Glasgow has 11 rainy days per month so tourists may want to research the city’s museums and attractions – namely the whiskey distillery, before visiting.
Elsewhere on the list featured Germany, Italy and even Spain, with Romania and France also home to some of the top 10 rainiest cities on the continent.
10 rainiest cities in EuropeÂ
- Bergen, Norway
- Sunderland, UK
- Glasgow, Scotland,
- Brasov, Romania
- Augsburg, Germany
- Milan, Italy
- Belfast, UK
- Swansea, UK
- Lyon, France
- Vigo, Spain