Bucharest experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons, hot summers, and cold winters that demand a wardrobe capable of handling 40°C swings throughout the year.

Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed across the year with a slight peak in late spring and early summer, meaning a compact umbrella earns its keep from May through June.

Summer temperatures regularly climb above 30°C while winter can plunge below -10°C, with January being particularly unforgiving.

The city sits on a flat plain with limited natural windbreaks, so persistent breezes amplify the chill factor in winter and occasionally stir up dust in dry summer spells.

Bucharest's unpredictable transitional seasons make layering an art form—locals know that March and October mornings can require a wool coat while afternoons call for shirtsleeves.