Winter markets and holiday lights make city visits attractive despite cool, damp weather. Snow is infrequent but possible; rain and wind are more common. Travellers should expect shorter opening hours at some outdoor attractions but lively indoor cultural programming.
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Average temperature across Netherlands in December.
Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht
Short, chilly days return in December with festive markets, ice-rink pop-ups and bright holiday lights across city squares despite intermittent rain rather than heavy snow. Canal views are atmospheric and central streets can be slippery after rain or frost - public transport is the practical choice during busy weekends. Pack a warm hat and gloves for evenings, and expect museums to be busy around school holidays.
Zeeland, Veerse Meer, Delta Works
December offers chilly, bracing days by the sea and festive markets in Middelburg and smaller towns; heavy snow is rare but wind-driven rain is common. High tides and winter storms make coastal drives dramatic but sometimes hazardous; check local advisories for dune walk closures. A warm, windproof coat and waterproof boots are essential if you plan to explore beaches or the seawalls.
Texel, Vlieland, Terschelling, Ameland, Schiermonnikoog
December’s winter light and audibility of the sea make for introspective off-season visits; many island shops and pension listings reduce opening hours but the quiet is rewarding. Ferry crossings are less frequent on some routes and coastal storms can disrupt travel plans - plan flexible itineraries. Pack an insulating base layer, waterproof outerwear and expect fewer organised excursions but great low-season birding and wide-open coastal walks.
Friesland, Groningen, Drenthe - Leeuwarden, Groningen city, Sneek
December’s low light and frequent drizzle produce a compact, wintery feel across the north; snow occurs but seldom stays long because of maritime influence. Holiday markets in Leeuwarden and Groningen add atmosphere, and quieter roads make driving less stressful outside holiday peaks. Insulated boots, warm hat, and a windproof jacket are advisable for outdoor exploration.
Gelderland, Overijssel - Arnhem, Apeldoorn, Deventer, Hoge Veluwe
December’s low sun and occasional frost lend the forests a quiet, wintry mood while town centres light up for the holidays; extended snow is possible but not guaranteed. The Hoge Veluwe has a stark beauty on clear winter days ideal for short hikes and photography. Bring insulated layers, waterproof boots and a headlamp for shorter daylight hours when you plan forest walks.
Maastricht, Valkenburg, Heerlen - the hilly south
December is chillier and often damp with festive markets in Maastricht and Valkenburg’s Christmas caves drawing visitors; snow is possible in colder years. The hilly terrain can be dramatic in winter light and makes for atmospheric walks when conditions are clear. Bring insulated layers, waterproof footwear and plan for occasional road slickness on rural lanes.
Sinterklaas festivities take place in early December across the Netherlands, particularly for families and children.
See how December compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.