Breda has a mild maritime climate. Summers are pleasant, with temperatures around 18--22 degrees and long evenings on the cafe terraces. Winters are cold but rarely snowy. Rain picks up from August through November, so bring a jacket if you visit in autumn.
The best time to visit is May through September. May brings the Breda Jazz Festival, one of Europe's better traditional and ragtime jazz events, with outdoor stages across the old town. In September, Redhead Day draws naturally red-haired people from around the world for a two-day celebration that is as quirky as it sounds. Late August has the Balloon Fiesta, with hot-air balloons launching over the city. And the Graphic Design Festival, a newer addition, pulls in a creative crowd from across Europe.
Breda is a walking city, so avoid the worst of winter if you can. The medieval lanes and castle grounds are best enjoyed on foot in decent weather.