Eastern Europe in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for December
Average temperature across Eastern Europe in December.
Country Weather in December
| Country | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Russia | -2° | -6° | 49 mm | low | Freezing |
| Ukraine | 0° | -4° | 46 mm | low | Freezing |
| Belarus | -1° | -6° | 49 mm | low | Freezing |
| Moldova | 3° | -2° | 38 mm | low | Cold |
| Lithuania | 0° | -5° | 53 mm | low | Freezing |
| Latvia | -1° | -6° | 49 mm | low | Freezing |
| Estonia | 1° | -4° | 60 mm | low | Freezing |
Representative figures from each country's largest city. High / low are average daily temperatures (°C); “Feels” allows for humidity.
The Baltics (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 & the Northern Plain (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.
The Carpathians & Transylvania (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.
Ukraine & Moldova Lowlands (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.
Black Sea Coast & the Danube Plain (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.
European Russia West of the Urals (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.