If you’re planning a trip to Arkhangelsk, you should get ready for a climate that swings between long, harsh winters and short, surprisingly mild summers. The city sits far up north, so daylight hours shift wildly with the seasons. That doesn’t just affect the weather—it really changes how you experience the place. The best time to visit Arkhangelsk is summer, from mid-June to late August. Temperatures are mild, daylight stretches on, and conditions just feel right for exploring.
During these months, you’ll usually see daytime highs between 18–22°C, and sometimes it gets even warmer. Nights stay cool, but not so much that it’s uncomfortable, and those long days mean you can spend more time outside.
Rain falls more often in summer, but showers rarely last long enough to ruin your plans. If you want to see Arkhangelsk at its friendliest, summer brings the best mix of weather, daylight, and easier travel. Sure, other seasons have their own vibe—like snowy winters or crisp autumns—but summer just makes everything more accessible and enjoyable.
Overview of Arkhangelsk’s Climate
Arkhangelsk has a subarctic climate with winters that drag on and summers that seem to end too soon. You’ll notice big temperature swings between seasons, steady humidity, and a lot of cloudy days that really shape how the city feels.
Subarctic Climate Characteristics
Arkhangelsk sits at about 64° north latitude, so it falls into a subarctic climate zone (Dfc). Winters here feel severe and seem to last forever, while summers are short and don’t get all that hot.
Snow usually covers everything from November until April. The Northern Dvina River and the nearby White Sea tend to freeze solid during winter. The city averages just about 2–3°C (36°F) over the year, thanks to its northern location.
Daylight changes are wild. In winter, you might only get about 5 hours of daylight, but in June, the sun barely sets, giving you more than 21 hours of light. That really changes both the temperature and how much sun you get.
Humidity stays up there, with yearly precipitation averaging about 625 mm (24.5 in). That’s enough to keep the snow around through winter and bring frequent rain in summer.
Seasonal Weather Patterns
Winters in Arkhangelsk just go on and on. From November to March, daily temperatures usually stay below freezing, with January hovering around –12°C (10°F). When cold waves hit, temperatures can drop to –30°C (–22°F) or even lower.
Spring creeps in slowly, and snow often sticks around until April. By May, temperatures finally climb into the single digits and low teens (°C), but you might still get frost.
Summers are short but actually pretty nice. July is the warmest month, averaging 17°C (62°F), and sometimes it gets above 30°C (86°F). Rain and the occasional thunderstorm show up, but those long days make it the best time to be outside.
Autumn cools off fast. September can still feel mild, but by October, it’s already close to freezing. November brings back the snow, and the whole winter cycle starts again.
Temperature and Precipitation Trends
Monthly temperatures swing from –15.6°C (4°F) lows in January to 22°C (72°F) highs in July. That’s a pretty big jump, showing just how dramatic the seasons get.
| Month | Avg Min (°C) | Avg Max (°C) | Avg Precip (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | –15.6 | –8.6 | 40 |
| Apr | –3.4 | 5.6 | 31 |
| Jul | 11.5 | 22.1 | 75 |
| Oct | 0.3 | 4.9 | 67 |
Precipitation hits its peak in summer, especially July and August, when thunderstorms show up more often. Winter brings lighter, steady snowfall.
Humidity stays pretty high all year, often above 70%. With all the cloud cover, the air feels damp even when it’s freezing.
Sea temperatures in the White Sea never really warm up, from about –1°C in winter to only 9–10°C in August. Swimming? Not really an option.
Sunshine hours are all over the place. June and July can give you over 9 hours a day, but December is basically dark. That light cycle is just as defining as the cold.
Best Time to Visit Arkhangelsk
If you’re looking for the most comfortable time to travel, aim for summer. Temperatures stay mild, daylight lasts, and it’s just easier to get out and explore the city and surrounding nature. Winters get rough and dark, and spring and autumn bring shorter days and cooler air.
Optimal Months for Pleasant Weather
The sweet spot for visiting Arkhangelsk is June to August. Daytime highs usually land between 15°C and 21°C (59°F to 70°F). That’s just right for walking tours, river cruises, or catching an outdoor festival—no need to worry about extreme heat.
If you want fewer tourists around, try late May or early September. These shoulder months are a bit milder, though evenings can get chilly. Expect temperatures from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), so definitely pack a light jacket.
From October through April, things shift into long, cold winters. Lows often fall below -10°C (14°F), with heavy snow and biting winds. Unless you’re here for winter sports or a special cultural event, sightseeing can get tough in these months.
Daylight Hours and Sunshine
Arkhangelsk sits close to the Arctic Circle, so daylight hours swing dramatically. In June and July, you get the White Nights—the sun barely sets, and you can enjoy up to 20–21 hours of daylight.
But in December and January, days shrink to just 3–4 hours of weak light. That makes sightseeing a challenge, especially with the cold.
Summer brings moderate sunshine, about 6–8 hours per day. Rain can happen, but showers usually don’t last. Autumn gets cloudier, and spring brings more light but still some lingering snow.
Sea Temperature and Activities
The White Sea stays cold year-round. Even in July and August, sea temperatures only reach 12°C to 14°C (54°F to 57°F). Most people skip swimming, but you can enjoy coastal walks, boat tours, or fishing trips during this time.
Summer is also prime time for river cruises on the Northern Dvina River, which cuts right through the city. You can catch great views of forests and nearby villages while the weather holds up.
In winter, the sea usually freezes over, so water activities are off the table. Still, you can try ice fishing or check out cultural festivals that celebrate northern traditions.
Seasonal Breakdown: What to Expect
Arkhangelsk’s subarctic climate brings wide temperature swings and distinct seasonal changes. You’ll run into mild summers, short and cool springs, wet and colorful autumns, and those very long, tough winters. Each season shapes how you get to explore the city and the region around it.
Summer in Arkhangelsk
Summer is hands down the most comfortable season here. From June to August, daytime highs usually hit 18°C to 22°C (64°F to 72°F), and nights cool down to around 10°C to 12°C (50°F to 54°F).
You’ll get long days, with July offering up to 10 hours of sunshine daily. Rainfall is moderate, about 74–86 mm per month, so expect a mix of sunny and rainy days.
The air feels fresh, and humidity isn’t too bad compared to other times of year. It’s a great time to stroll along the Northern Dvina River or check out the wooden architecture downtown.
Outdoor festivals and boat trips pop up everywhere, and getting around is just easier in summer.
Spring Weather Overview
Spring takes its time arriving, thanks to the subarctic setup. March is still cold, often between -10°C and -2°C (14°F to 28°F). By May, daytime highs finally reach 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), but nights can still get close to freezing.
Snow hangs around into April, and melting ice can make roads wet and muddy. Rain shows up more often in May, but it’s usually light. Humidity drops compared to autumn, averaging about 69% in late spring.
If you’re coming in spring, pack layers and waterproof shoes. You’ll see the landscape shift from frozen rivers to green buds, but outdoor activities may feel limited until late May.
Autumn Conditions
Autumn in Arkhangelsk is quick but obvious. September usually feels mild, with highs near 10°C to 13°C (50°F to 55°F). By October, temperatures drop fast, averaging 2°C to 6°C (36°F to 43°F), and by November, it’s back to freezing.
Rain stays steady, and October gets especially humid, hitting up to 89% humidity. Wet weather and shorter days can make travel less fun. Snow often starts in late October or November, kicking off winter again.
If you like crisp air and autumn colors, this season’s for you, but expect damp conditions. Museums and indoor spots get more appealing as it gets colder.
Winter Extremes
Winter really takes over in Arkhangelsk, stretching from late November into April. January is the coldest, with highs near -7°C (19°F) and lows around -14°C (7°F). Sometimes it drops below -20°C (-4°F).
Snow falls often, with February getting about 37 mm across 18 days. Sunlight is rare—December averages just 0.2 hours of sunshine per day.
If you travel here in winter, you’ll need to bundle up. Warm clothes, insulated boots, and caution on icy streets are a must. Outdoor adventures get limited, but you can still soak in the stark northern scenery and see how locals handle the extreme cold.
Monthly Weather Guide
Arkhangelsk deals with long, severe winters and short, mild summers. You’ll notice big swings in daylight, temperature, and precipitation, and that really affects when travel feels best.
Temperature and Rainfall by Month
Winter dominates from November through March, with highs staying below freezing. January is the coldest, averaging -12 °C (10 °F), though cold snaps can send temperatures down to -30 °C (-22 °F) or worse.
Spring warms up slowly, but April can still feel chilly, with highs near 6 °C (43 °F). By May, you might see 13 °C (55 °F) during the day, though frost can still surprise you.
Summer is short but pleasant. July, the warmest month, averages 17 °C (63 °F) with highs around 22 °C (72 °F). It’s also one of the wetter months, with about 75 mm of rain. August stays nice but starts cooling off.
Rainfall is moderate all year, totaling about 625 mm. July to September are the wettest months, while March and April are driest.
Snowfall and Ice Conditions
Snow blankets the ground from late October or November until April. Snow depth can hit a meter in midwinter, making it tough to get around outside the city.
The Northern Dvina River and the nearby White Sea usually freeze in winter. Sea ice forms by January and can last until April, which limits navigation. The Barents Sea farther north stays ice-free, thanks to ocean currents.
If you visit from December through March, expect steady snowfall and icy streets. By May, most snow melts, though shaded spots might still have patches. Summer is snow-free, but heavy rains sometimes take its place.
Humidity and Wind Patterns
Humidity stays high all year. In winter, it hovers around 80–85%, making the cold bite even more. Summer humidity drops to 65–70%, but rain still keeps things damp.
Winds blow steadily, averaging 9–10 kph (6–7 mph). Gusts can feel stronger near the coast. Winter winds plus low temps create sharp wind chills, while summer breezes make the warmth feel just right.
Daylight shifts a lot too. June brings nearly 21 hours of daylight, while December barely offers a few hours of dim sun. That really affects humidity and how comfortable it is to be outside.
Tourist Seasons and Crowd Levels
When you plan a trip to Arkhangelsk, the timing of your visit really shapes your experience. Not only does the weather change, but so does the number of people around you.
Summers draw the most activity. Spring and autumn feel much quieter, and winters? Well, that’s a whole different story—expect far fewer travelers.
Peak Season Highlights
The busiest stretch in Arkhangelsk runs from June through August. Daytime highs usually sit between 18°C and 22°C, which feels pretty comfortable for walking tours or river cruises.
You get those famously long daylight hours, and in June, the midnight sun keeps things bright late into the night. That gives you loads of time to explore.
You’ll notice more people in the city center and along the Northern Dvina River. Hotels and guesthouses often bump up their rates, and if you wait too long, booking a room can get tricky.
Popular activities? Open-air museums, boat rides, and cultural festivals fill up the calendar. Even though the crowds aren’t as intense as in Moscow or St. Petersburg, you’ll still see busier streets and attractions.
If you like a lively vibe and want the best shot at warm weather, summer’s probably your safest bet.
Shoulder Seasons
Late spring (May) and early autumn (September) offer a nice balance—fewer crowds but still comfortable. In May, temperatures climb into the low teens Celsius. September usually stays mild, hovering around 10°C to 14°C.
Hotels tend to have better availability, and prices can dip compared to summer. Tourist sites stay open, and you won’t have to wait in long lines or jostle for space.
September brings more rain, so packing something waterproof makes sense. In May, melting snow sometimes leaves paths muddy, but the city starts to green up, which looks great in photos.
Shoulder seasons work well if you want things a bit more relaxed but still want to see the main sights.
Low Season Considerations
From late October through April, Arkhangelsk settles into its long, cold winter. Average highs in January barely reach -7°C, and nights drop close to -14°C.
Snow piles up, and December sees just a few hours of daylight each day. You’ll hardly see any crowds, since most travelers skip this season unless they’re ready for serious cold.
Hotels drop their prices, so you might score a good deal if you plan to stay a while.
If you do visit in winter, don’t expect much outdoor activity. Still, you can catch northern traditions, winter festivals, and the stark, snowy landscape.
Winter works only if you’re comfortable with extreme cold and want to see Arkhangelsk without the usual tourist traffic.
Local Events and Natural Attractions
Arkhangelsk has more to offer than just pleasant summer weather. You’ll find cultural festivals, riverside activities, the White Sea coastline, and nearby towns with deep maritime roots.
Festivals and Celebrations
You can dive into Arkhangelsk’s culture through seasonal festivals that showcase music, folk traditions, and local crafts. In summer, the city often puts on open-air concerts and cultural fairs in public squares.
These events usually highlight traditional wooden architecture, regional food, and performances by local artists.
Winter brings celebrations tied to Orthodox holidays, with ice sculptures and bustling outdoor markets. If you’re around in early spring, you might catch Maslenitsa—a festival that marks the end of winter with pancakes, bonfires, and folk dancing.
These gatherings let you see northern Russian traditions up close and give you a chance to meet local residents in a laid-back setting.
Northern Dvina River Activities
The Northern Dvina River cuts right through Arkhangelsk and really shapes daily life here. In summer, you can hop on a boat tour to see the city’s historic wooden houses and churches from the water.
Short cruises often include stories about Arkhangelsk’s past as a major northern port.
Fishing is a big deal too, with locals catching pike and perch. The riverbanks have walking paths, perfect for mild summer evenings.
In winter, the river usually freezes. Locals ski or walk across the ice, which completely changes the vibe and turns the river into a year-round attraction.
Exploring the White Sea Coastline
The White Sea sits just north of Arkhangelsk, known for its rugged, wild coastline. You can visit small villages along the shore, where fishing still puts food on the table.
The coastline has quiet beaches, but the water stays chilly, even in July.
Birdwatchers flock here to spot species nesting along the coast. If you like hiking, trails lead out to viewpoints over the sea.
In late spring and summer, the midnight sun stretches daylight late into the night. That gives you extra hours to wander the coastline at your own pace.
Day Trips to Severodvinsk
Severodvinsk sits about 35 kilometers west of Arkhangelsk, so you can easily make it a quick day trip. People mostly know the town for its shipbuilding, especially the submarines.
You won’t be able to access many of the shipyards, but you can check out local museums to get a feel for the maritime history here. It’s actually pretty interesting if you like that kind of thing.
The beaches along the White Sea stretch wide and open, and they really come alive in summer. I love walking the shoreline, watching ships drift by, or just soaking up the fresh air.
You can hop on a train or bus from Arkhangelsk and get here without much hassle. If you’re curious about the region’s naval and coastal story, a few hours in Severodvinsk might surprise you.