Do you want to know what to wear in Germany in Summer? Then you have come to the right place. So whether you are going to the cities like Berlin, Munich or Hamburg or heading to the countryside such as the Mosel Valley, we will tell you exactly what you should pack for Germany in Summer.
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Weather in Germany in Summer (June, July, August)
Summer in Germany technically starts in June – June 21st to be exact. And despite being in Northern Europe Germany does tend to get quite warm.
But the weather in Germany will depend on the area you are visiting. However generally speaking the weather will be warm particularly in the South. However it is worth noting that the Summer has some of the wettest months in Germany so do bear that in mind.
July and August have an average temperature of 17C/62.5F but while warm, there are also frequent rains and storms and on average there is 77mm of rain in each month.
The hottest region in Germany is usually the Southwest which is homes to Baden-Württemberg, Hessen, Rheinland-Pfalz, and Saarland and famous cities such as Heidelberg and Freiburg.
For more specific guidance on what to wear in Germany in Summer check out our regional guides:
- What to wear in Berlin in Summer
- What to wear in Hamburg in Summer
- What to Wear in Munich in Summer
And if you visit spans into September and you plan to visit the Oktoberfest tents be sure to check out our guide on what to wear to Oktoberfest and what to wear in Germany in September guide.
How do local people dress in Germany in Summer?
Germany is not the hottest place to visit in Europe and therefore you will see a mixture of outfits and styles amongst the locals.
On warmer days it is common to see skirts and dresses on the streets, while on cooler days you will see more jeans in a variety of styles.
What to Wear to Germany in Summer for Women
When putting together you wardrobe for Germany in Summer I recommend trying to pack a capsule wardrobe to reduce space and potentially even travel with carry on alone.
This reduces the risk of losing luggage and also to reduce space your luggage takes up in your likely small European accommodation.
For more information on methods for packing light be sure to check out our explanations of the 54321 packing method and the sudoku packing method here.
Some of the key pieces in your what to wear to Germany in Summer wardrobe should include:
Trousers
Depending on where you are traveling to in Germany and what activities you are doing once you get there will depend on what type of trousers you require.
If you plan on going in hiking in places such as the Mosel Valley we recommend taking either walking trousers or some leggings or athleisure.
Personally I like to wear walking trousers with a zip that can covert into shorts for walking in Germany in summer but this is just personal choice.
However for cities we recommend a combination of lightweight trousers or some jeans for a cooler snap.
During a very warm period linen trousers are great as they are breathable and lightweight however for cooler days and evening smart jeans are another great choice for Germany.
Skirts and Dresses
Germany is a relatively liberal and multicultural place, especially in the major cities, therefore you can choose the style and length of skirt or dress you feel most comfortable in. There really isn’t a strict Germany dress code you need to adhere to.
Note: please be aware that if you plan to visit any of the concentration camps you are required to dress in a way that respects the solemnity of the site. Please bear this in mind when packing.
Outside of here you can wear maxi, midi or mini dress as you feel most comfortable in.
Blouse
A loose blouse works for the cooler evenings or day.s Italians are a smart bunch so a nice blouse is the perfect German Summer Packing List addition.
T Shirt
T Shirts are a great base for Germany at anytime of year but particularly in Summer.
T Shirts that are plain or are lightly patterned are easier to make work as part of a capsule wardrobe. However graphic or slogan t shirts won’t be out of place on the streets of the major cities in Germany.
Generally speaking in Summer you will need more short sleeve t shirts, however during a cold snap or for evenings you may also want a long sleeve t shirt with you.
Jacket and top layers
Although Summer, I would recommend packing top layers.
A denim jacket that can pair with trousers or even a dress is a great choice for museums, restaurants, theatre and shops but not great for walking in the rain.
Therefore we recommend having cardigans, a sweater and hoodie too.
Depending on the forecast when you are traveling and how much outdoor activities you plan on doing you may also want a rain jacket with you.
Pashmina
It doesn’t matter where I am traveling to in Europe a pashmina is always on my packing list.
A pashmina can be used as a scarf or lovely accessory but can double up as an added extra layer.
Swimwear (optional)
Swimwear is an optional for your German summer packing list depending on where you are going and the accommodation you are staying in.
You really only need to pack swimwear if you are staying in a hotel with a swimming pool or if you are heading to the coast.
Although largely land based, Germany does have some beaches including Warnemunde (one of Germany’s most popular cruise ports). If you are visiting a beach then swimwear, wither bikinis or one pieces are fine, however you may find the water too cold to swim in.
PJs
Lightweight are recommended as not all accommodation in Germany will have in Summer.
Underwear and Socks
Goes without saying. Sneaker socks are a good way of reducing sweat and odour in your shoe.
What to Wear in Germany in Summer for Men
For men visiting Germany in Summer, I actually recommend actually keeping things similar to the women’s packing list.
The items we recommend including on your mens German Summer packing list are:
Trousers
Having a couple of pairs of linen trousers with you is a good idea for Germany in summer.
If you are sticking to the cities then I would recommend having a mix of either jeans, chinos or linen trousers with you as these work for both day and night for most tourist attractions in Germany.
However if you plan to do lots of walking or cycling then walking trousers are a good addition to your packing list. We recommend zippable ones as they can convert to shorts on hot days.
Shorts
Although Chinos and linens are great for traveling in both cities and countryside, shorts are a necessary addition for hot days in summer.
We recommend bringing more tailored and smarter shorts as opposed to cargo shorts however as these can make you look like a tourist.
And whatever you do, do not wear shorts with white socks and sandals. This is a very touristy looking Germany.
T Shirts and Shirts
During the day t shirts are great. For men short sleeve tees are probably going to be the most useful for you.
Again I would recommend avoiding anything with a graphic or slogan or in overly loud colors if you want to fit in with the locals.
You should also pack at least one button down shirt with you for Germany in Summer for going out to dinner.
However if shirts aren’t your thing then be sure to pack a smart polo.
Swimwear
Only for if your accommodation has a pool or are heading to the coast. Either trunks or speedos are fine for German beaches and pools.
PJs
Lightweight are recommended as not all Germany accommodation will have in air conditioning even in summer.
Underwear and Socks
Goes without saying.
Best Shoes for Germany in Summer
Sneakers
Sneakers are my go to shoe for Germany in the summer whether I am in the city, countryside or on the coast.
There are great for days when you are doing lots of walking, and Germany is a place in my opinion that is best explored on foot.
They can also cope with the warmer weather while also being good for your feet on cobbled and uneven streets.
I would personally pick more of a fashion pair as opposed to sports ones to fit in more with the locals but any pair is better than no pair. But go with whatever you feel most comfortable in.
Just remember to wear your sneakers in BEFORE your trip if you decide to buy new ones.
Sandals
Sandals are perfect for summer in Germany. Just be sure you are comfortable to walk in them especially over cobbles and uneven surfaces.
And if you want to have something with height then we recommend a wedge instead of a stiletto heel as these are better for the surfaces in Germany. And be sure to leave the flip flops at home as these are not good for walking long distances in.
And if you are doing lots of walking then a walking sandal is a good pick.
Hiking Boots
For if you are planning on going on mountain hikes in Tuscany then you may want hiking boots. However hiking sandals are a good alternative.
But if you are sticking to the cities then hiking boots are not necessary.
What Else to Pack for Germany in Summer
- Sun screen
- Aloe Vera
- Sunglasses –
- Camera
- Crossbody bag – unfortunately any tourist site attracts pickpockets and Italy is no different. Protect your belongings by having a crossbody bag with lots of zips.
- Travel Adaptor
- Power Pack / Battery recharger
How to dress in Germany in Summer for Special Events
There are no special events in Germany in Summer that will affect your Packing List drastically.
However if you are planning on visiting Pride you may want to pack some rainbow wear.
FAQS About Germany in Summer
Do I need swimwear for Germany in Summer?
If you are staying outside in the countryside or near the coast you may have access to a pool. If you are staying in a location with a pool or heading to the coast then definitely bring swimwear otherwise it is unlikely you will need it.
Can you wear shorts in Germany in Summer?
You are fine to wear shorts in most places in Germany in summer. For women I recommend packing a mix of shorts, trousers and skirts and men shorts are an essential along with trousers.
Can you wear jeans in Germany in Summer?
Even in summer you will see lots of jeans on the streets in Germany. And you will see a variety of styles from ripped, skinny, boyfriend cut to baggy. Therefore wear the style of jeans you feel most comfortable in.
Have you been to Germany in Summer? What did you wear? We would love to hear in the comments.