December is cold with festive markets and holiday events in major cities; alpine and mountain resorts are in ski season. Travel around Christmas and New Year can be busy in some areas, while other destinations remain quiet. Expect winter driving conditions in rural areas.
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall, from each country's largest city. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Average temperature across Eastern Europe in December.
Estonia, Latvia & Lithuania
Late winter returns to a pattern of long, cold nights and slowly lengthening days; February is often the coldest month in interior spots with persistent snowpack in lowlands and deeper drifts in higher ground. Frozen coastal mornings around Klaipėda and Tallinn can be foggy and still, offering photogenic scenes but slick surfaces. Keep thermal underlayers and a windproof shell handy for outdoor walking and any coastal excursions.
Poland & Belarus
Late winter features frequent temperature swings between thaw and freeze; March tends to be muddy with intermittent snow while the sun strengthens. Early spring bulbs and the first returning migratory birds can be seen, but outdoor excursions will often be chilly. Waterproof footwear, layered clothing and patience with transit schedules are important when planning trips at this time.
southern Poland, Slovakia, western Ukraine & Romania
Late winter produces variable conditions: lower slopes start slumping and creeks rise as temperatures rise, while upper ridges hold solid snowpack; spring-like days alternate with returning blizzards. This transitional period is a good time for fewer-crowd winter walks in sheltered valleys but risky for unguided high-altitude travel. Layered clothing and up-to-date weather checks are crucial for safe mountain travel.
central & eastern Ukraine, Moldova
Late winter shifts toward thaw and muddy conditions by March with rivers rising and snowpacks breaking up; this is a transitional time with a mix of wintry and spring days. Rural travel becomes trickier on unpaved roads, though cultural sites in cities are less crowded. Waterproof boots and adjustable layers are advisable while planning for variable weather.
Romania, Bulgaria & southern Ukraine
Late winter brings a slow thaw and renewed bird activity in the delta by March; coastal towns begin to show signs of reopening for spring though mornings remain cool. Early spring storms still occur but the overall trend is toward longer, sunnier days. Layering and waterproofs remain sensible, especially for boat trips and delta wetlands.
St. Petersburg, Moscow & surrounding regions
Late winter thaws and freeze-thaw cycles return by March, making travel and sidewalks intermittently slushy and icy; daylight lengths grow quickly and starlings and early migrants reappear. Cultural life in cities ramps up ahead of the high season while rural areas may still be difficult to access. Flexible footwear, layers and a willingness to swap outdoor plans for indoor ones will keep your trip smooth.
Traditional Christmas markets and seasonal celebrations in many cities.
See how December compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.