Central Europe in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for December
Average temperature across Central Europe in December.
Country Weather in December
| Country | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | 4° | 0° | 57 mm | low | Cold |
| Poland | 2° | -3° | 36 mm | low | Freezing |
| Czech Republic | 4° | 0° | 25 mm | low | Cold |
| Hungary | 4° | 0° | 42 mm | low | Cold |
| Austria | 4° | -1° | 36 mm | low | Cold |
| Switzerland | 4° | -1° | 80 mm | low | Cold |
| Slovakia | 4° | -2° | 46 mm | low | Cold |
| Liechtenstein | 5° | -1° | 73 mm | low | Cold |
Representative figures from each country's largest city. High / low are average daily temperatures (°C); “Feels” allows for humidity.
The Alps (Switzerland, Austria, southern Germany, Liechtenstein, Slovenia)
Summer thunderstorms are already possible in higher reaches, and the high alpine lakes warm enough for late-season swims where accessible; valley heat is usually moderate but can spike during regional heat waves. Mountain biking and multi-day trekking are at their height, yet book refuges and hut beds well ahead for popular routes like the Tour du Mont Blanc. Carry sun protection, water, and an understanding that mountain weather can change fast.
Bohemian Basin & Czech Lands (Czech Republic)
By high spring temperatures climb consistently and open-air festivals reappear; late April and May offer some of the best walking weather with fewer visitors than summer. Roads and trails dry out after snowmelt; vineyard tours in Moravia start up and gardens open fully. Pack a light waterproof jacket and breathable layers for comfortable daytime exploring.
Poland & Silesia (Poland: Warsaw, Kraków, Gdańsk and southern Silesia)
By spring the plains green rapidly and travel becomes easier across Poland; late April and May are excellent for cycling routes in Masuria and city breaks in Poznań and Kraków. Expect occasional showers and cool nights-bring waterproof shoes and a mid-weight jacket. This shoulder season is a good value time to visit before the summer crowds arrive.
Carpathians & the High Tatras (Slovakia, southern Poland)
By high spring the upper ridgelines are often still edged with snow, but valley trails fill with wildflowers and migratory birds return-ideal for photographers and quieter trekking. Daytime temperatures rise, yet nights stay cold; plan hikes that allow turning back early if weather worsens. Local guides operate spring trips that balance safety with exploration of late-season alpine scenery.
Danube & Vienna Basin (Austria eastern regions, Vienna, Bratislava, western Hungary)
By spring the basin warms quickly and riverfront paths become lively; late April sees comfortable touring weather with festivals returning. Wine routes and open-air events begin in earnest, and daylight extends into the evening-pack a light jacket and comfortable shoes for long days of walking between sights.
Pannonian Plain & Hungary (Hungary, northern Croatia’s Slavonia fringe)
By spring the lowland plain rapidly blossoms, and late April and May bring comfortable touring weather ideal for cycling around Lake Balaton and exploring Budapest’s outdoor spaces. Expect occasional rains but mostly mild days; a light rain jacket and breathable layers will serve well. This is a particularly pleasant time to combine city and rural visits.