Sydney averages a daily maximum of 25.5 degrees in January and 15.8 in July, and it sees roughly 24 to 29 sunny days in every month. That is a mild city all year, which shapes how you plan Sydney seasons and events.
Here you will find the climate for each month, what the city is known for, and the outdoor experiences that suit each season. For current event listings, check Visit NSW, the official state tourism site, and confirm prices and times with each operator.
Sydney month by month: the climate figures
These are 1991-2020 averages for the Sydney area. Rain days are days with measurable rain, and sunny days are counted per month.
| Month | Max (C) | Min (C) | Rain (mm) | Rain days | Sunny days |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 25.5 | 19.3 | 67.8 | 9.4 | 27.1 |
| February | 24.9 | 19.2 | 87.3 | 10.5 | 24.6 |
| March | 23.6 | 17.9 | 70.1 | 10.8 | 27.5 |
| April | 21.4 | 15.0 | 54.2 | 7.9 | 27.5 |
| May | 18.6 | 12.0 | 45.8 | 6.5 | 27.7 |
| June | 16.3 | 10.0 | 65.3 | 8.1 | 26.0 |
| July | 15.8 | 8.7 | 35.8 | 5.9 | 28.4 |
| August | 17.0 | 9.0 | 37.2 | 5.1 | 28.9 |
| September | 19.4 | 11.2 | 40.4 | 6.4 | 27.8 |
| October | 21.2 | 13.5 | 50.6 | 7.7 | 28.1 |
| November | 22.5 | 15.5 | 70.3 | 8.9 | 26.1 |
| December | 24.2 | 17.5 | 56.2 | 8.8 | 27.4 |
February is the wettest month at 87.3 mm, and July is the coolest, with nights down to 8.7 degrees.
Summer: December to February
Summer days sit between about 24 and 26 degrees, and nights stay mild at 17.5 to 19.3 degrees. Rain is still part of the picture. February brings 10.5 rain days and the year's heaviest falls, so we would pack for a shower even in peak beach season.
This is the season for being on the water. The guided kayak to Goat Island is a three-hour paddle from AUD 128.21, passing close to the Harbour Bridge before landing on an island that is normally closed to visitors. If you would rather steer yourself, the self-drive boat hire on Sydney Harbour needs no licence, runs seven hours, and suits up to six people, from AUD 510.
Autumn: March to May
March still feels like summer, with a 23.6 degree maximum, but it is also rainy, with 10.8 rain days. By May the maximum is 18.6 and rain days drop to 6.5, while sunny days climb back to 27.7.
April is a fair middle ground. At 21.4 degrees by day and 7.9 rain days, it suits long days on foot. The Badass Women of Sydney walking tour covers Macquarie Street and The Rocks in two hours, from AUD 60, and it works well in mild weather.
Winter: June to August
Winter is cool rather than cold. July maxima average 15.8 degrees, and rainfall is 35.8 mm. August is the sunniest month, with 28.9 sunny days and only 5.1 rain days. June is the exception, with 65.3 mm of rain.
We reckon winter suits city stories and short outdoor stints. The Historical True Crime Walking Tour of East Sydney takes two hours, from AUD 45, through the streets that earned the nickname Razorhurst during the 1920s gang wars. The Flying Fox Experience is 2 hours 30 minutes, from AUD 80, and the bats are active in daylight.
Spring: September to November
Spring warms steadily, from 19.4 degrees in September to 22.5 in November. October is a standout, with 28.1 sunny days and 7.7 rain days. November's rain picks up to 70.3 mm, so do not assume it will be dry.
It is a good time for a longer day out of the centre. The Royal National Park private tour runs nine hours, from AUD 725, with coastal cliffs and hidden beaches on foot. For an overnight stay, the Royal National Park listing includes powered sites and cabins.
Big occasions Sydney is known for
Sydney has hosted the 2000 Summer Olympics, the 2003 Rugby World Cup Final and the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup Final. It is among the top fifteen most-visited cities in the world.
One date is part of the city's story. The First Fleet settled Sydney Cove on 26 January 1788, and the colony of New South Wales was formally proclaimed on 7 February that year. For landmarks that suit any season, see our Sydney Opera House page, or browse Sydney activities for more ideas. The city's background is also set out on Wikipedia.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Sydney?
It depends what you want. October has 28.1 sunny days and mild 21.2 degree maxima. August is the sunniest month at 28.9 days. For warm beach weather, aim for December to February.
What is the wettest month in Sydney?
February, with an average of 87.3 mm over 10.5 rain days. July and August are the driest, at 35.8 and 37.2 mm.
Does Sydney get cold in winter?
Not very. July is the coolest month, with an average maximum of 15.8 degrees and a minimum of 8.7.
