Understanding scores
How does the 0-to-10 score work?
The score combines 7 climate parameters: maximum temperature, rainy days, sunshine hours, relative humidity, wind speed, sea temperature (coastal destinations) and snowfall (ski resorts). Each parameter is weighted according to destination type.
In practice: 8+ = ideal conditions · 6 to 8 = favourable · 4 to 6 = mixed · below 4 = unfavourable.
Why does a tropical destination score low in summer?
In the tropics, summer often coincides with the rainy season. The score penalises heavy rainfall and high humidity, even when temperatures remain pleasant. This is deliberate: daily downpours are not an ideal travel experience for most visitors.
Are scores the same on destination pages and in the app?
Yes. Destination pages and the app use the same algorithm and baseline data. The app adds a real-time forecast layer, but the historical reference score is identical.
Using the app
How do I search for a destination?
Type a city name into the app's search bar. Autocomplete will suggest available destinations. Select one to see the month-by-month breakdown.
What does "Seasonal outlook" mean in the app?
This is the ECMWF long-range seasonal forecast (up to 9 months). It indicates whether upcoming months are likely to be warmer, cooler, drier or wetter than normal. It is a trend indicator, not a day-by-day prediction.
Can I compare two destinations?
Not directly in the app yet (feature planned). For now, open two destination pages in separate tabs and compare scores for the same period. Monthly pages include links to destinations with similar climates.
Reliability and limitations
Is the data reliable?
Scores are based on 10 years of historical climate data (Open-Meteo, sources: ECMWF, DWD, NOAA, Météo-France). They reflect statistical averages: they describe what typically happens during that period, not what will happen this specific year.
What is the margin of error?
Climate can deviate from its averages. A typically dry month may occasionally experience heavy rain (El Niño, extreme events). The score gives you the probability of good conditions, not a guarantee. The higher the score, the stronger that probability.
Why is my destination not listed?
We currently cover 512 destinations. If yours is missing, it has not yet been added to our database. We regularly expand coverage.
The site
Is BestDateWeather free?
Yes, completely free. No subscriptions, no paywalled content, no targeted advertising.
Who is behind BestDateWeather?
An independent French project, published by BestDateWeather EI micro, based in Chatou (Île-de-France, France). More details on the About page.
How is my personal data used?
BestDateWeather collects no personal data beyond anonymised traffic statistics (Google Analytics). No user account is required. Details in our privacy policy.