Northern Europe in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Country Weather in December
| Country | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sweden | 4° | -1° | 83 mm | low | Cold |
| Denmark | 5° | 1° | 58 mm | low | Cold |
| Finland | 0° | -5° | 57 mm | low | Freezing |
| Norway | 5° | 1° | 248 mm | low | Cold |
| Iceland | 3° | -2° | 94 mm | low | Cold |
Representative figures from each country's largest city. High / low are average daily temperatures (°C); “Feels” allows for humidity.
Svalbard & the High Arctic (Svalbard, Jan Mayen - Arctic islands)
Deep polar night persists into December with freezing temperatures and constant darkness in many high-latitude locations; sea channels may be starting to refreeze and travel windows are narrow. What few visitors there are focus on Aurora observation, winter photography and highly organized, guided activities; mental readiness for short daylight and heavy cold is crucial. Expect flights to be more weather-dependent and ensure evacuation plans and polar-bear protection are in place.
Iceland & the Faroe Islands (Iceland; Faroe Islands)
description”:”Iceland and the Faroe Islands are ocean-dominated, changeable places: mild maritime coasts under a subpolar shell with frequent rain, wind and rapidly shifting conditions. Summer (June-August) is the practical window for highland roads and most services; winter brings storms, shorter daylight and the aurora but requires flexible transport and warm kit. Travellers should watch ferry/road reports and expect wind and wet weather year-round.”
Norwegian Fjords & West Coast (Bergen, Stavanger, Geiranger, western fjords)
description”:”Western Norway’s coast is maritime: mild winters with heavy rain and wind, cool summers and dramatic fjord scenery shaped by Atlantic storms. Summer (June-August) is the busiest and most reliable for road travel and fjord cruises, while autumn brings stormier seas and winter closes some mountain routes. Bring waterproof outerwear year-round and expect variable conditions even during summer.”
Northern Scandinavia & Lapland (northern Norway, northern Sweden, northern Finland - Tromsø, Lofoten, Kiruna, Rovaniemi, Lapland)
December’s long nights and snow create the classic Arctic winter scene: daytime hours are short but the region is set up for winter activities and holiday markets in towns like Rovaniemi and Tromsø. Temperatures can fall sharply inland, so insulation and winter-vehicle experience are essential; the polar night in the far north means continuous twilight or darkness for parts of the month. Book popular winter excursions well in advance and carry cold-weather gear.
Southern Scandinavia & the Baltics (Denmark; southern Sweden - Skåne, Gothenburg area; southern Norway lowlands; Finland south coast; Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania)
December brings festive markets to Tallinn, Riga and Copenhagen while cold spells and occasional snow transform lowland landscapes and add charm to city squares. Daylight is short but manageable for daytime sightseeing, and the south coast of Finland may see reliable snow in some years. Pack warm, layered clothing for outdoor market browsing and expect crowded city centers on holiday weekends; book restaurants and events ahead for seasonal celebrations.