Israel in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect

Season
Low Season
Temperature
9-17°C (48-63°F)
Crowds
Low
Prices
Low
December is cooler and wetter, particularly in northern and central regions; occasional storms occur. Cities are lively with seasonal events and indoor cultural offerings during the cooler evenings.

Climate Map for December

Israel average temperature in December
-30°-20°-10° 10°20°30°40°

Average temperature across Israel in December.

City Weather in December

City High Low Rain UV Feels
Tel Aviv 19° 10° 134 mm low Cool
Haifa 17° 140 mm low Cool
Rishon LeZion 19° 137 mm moderate Cool
Petah Tikva 19° 140 mm low Cool
Netanya 18° 149 mm low Cool
Ashdod 19° 10° 119 mm moderate Cool
Bnei Brak 19° 10° 142 mm low Cool

High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.

Mediterranean Coast (Tel Aviv, Haifa, Acre)

Transition months can be pleasant and variable, and November’s earlier rains remind you to check forecasts before beach trips or coastal hikes. Tel Aviv’s cultural calendar is lively in autumn and spring, offering a good balance of weather and activities; always have a compact umbrella and versatile layers when traveling off-peak.

Northern Galilee & Golan Heights (Safed, Tiberias, Mount Hermon)

December returns to a cooler, wetter pattern with a realistic possibility of snow on Mount Hermon and frosty mornings in Safed, while Tiberias sits milder by the Sea of Galilee. The dramatic winter waterfalls and green hills are a trade-off for colder weather; the ski season’s variability means checking conditions before visiting Hermon. Pack proper winter boots, warm clothing and be prepared for occasional travel delays from storms.

Jerusalem & Central Highlands (Judean Hills, Bethlehem)

description

Jordan Rift & Dead Sea (Jericho, Masada, Dead Sea shoreline)

description

Negev Desert & Eilat (Beersheba, Ramon Crater, Eilat, Mitzpe Ramon)

description”:”The Negev and Eilat cover Israel’s arid south, from broad desert plains and the Ramon Crater to the Red Sea resort of Eilat. Winters are mild and great for trekking and birding, springs bring short-lived blooms after rains, and summers are intensely hot inland while Eilat remains the year-round dive hub. Travel in summer requires timing activities for early morning or late afternoon and carrying ample water.”

Events & Festivals in December

Hanukkah
Holiday observed in December (dates vary by Hebrew calendar) with public celebrations and menorah lightings in many cities.