Romania in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for December
Average temperature across Romania in December.
City Weather in December
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bucharest | 4° | -3° | 37 mm | low | Cold |
| Iași | 3° | -4° | 31 mm | low | Freezing |
| Constanţa | 6° | 0° | 31 mm | low | Cold |
| Cluj-Napoca | 2° | -4° | 35 mm | low | Freezing |
| Braşov | 1° | -6° | 29 mm | low | Freezing |
| Timişoara | 4° | -2° | 46 mm | low | Cold |
| Craiova | 4° | -2° | 44 mm | low | Cold |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
Bucharest & the Wallachian Plain (Southern Romania)
December wraps the year with cold, sometimes snowy conditions that create a seasonal mood in Bucharest’s old town and holiday markets. Periods of freezing fog alternate with brighter, crisp days; snow cover can make travel to rural areas slower but turns nearby monasteries and parks very picturesque. Bring a warm hat and insulated gloves if you plan to stroll long after dusk.
Black Sea Coast & Dobrogea (Constanța, Mamaia, Danube Delta)
December can be chilly and occasionally stormy; cold northerlies bring low temperatures and rough seas, so beach-going is out of season. Holiday markets in coastal towns are modest but atmospheric under winter skies, and the Danube Delta is at its quietest, best for solitude and winter birdwatching if you tolerate the cold. Waterproof, insulated clothing is recommended for any boat or outdoor excursions.
Transylvania Plateau & the Apuseni (Sibiu, Cluj, Brașov outskirts, Sighișoara)
December often offers a picturesque winter start: market stalls in Sibiu and Sighișoara light up and snow is common at higher spots, though lowland towns sometimes remain grey and wet. Ski resorts up toward Poiana Brașov are beginning to open and castle visits against snowy backdrops are atmospheric. Pack warm layers, boots, and expect occasional travel delays due to winter weather on minor roads.
Romanian Carpathians & High Mountains (Făgăraș, Bucegi, Retezat, Piatra Craiului)
December reasserts winter at elevation: deep snowpack returns, lifts operate in ski resorts, and mountaintop visibility is often reduced in storms. Backcountry skiing is possible for experienced parties with avalanche awareness, but many long routes are closed to casual trekkers. Pack full winter gear and check with local mountain rescue and park authorities before venturing into alpine zones.
Moldavia, Bukovina & Maramureș (Iași, Suceava, wooden churches region)
December settles into a clear, cold pattern with frequent snow and a proper winter atmosphere in Maramureș and Bukovina - ideal for wood-carving workshops and traditional winter crafts. Roads to remote villages can be slower and less predictable; public transport schedules are reduced. Travelers should come prepared with insulated clothing and plan extra travel time to reach rural heritage sites.
Banat & Western Romania (Timișoara, Caraș-Severin, Oradea and Crișana)
December offers cold, sometimes snowy conditions with festive lights in Timișoara and Oradea’s squares; the western region tends to have a milder winter than the high Carpathians but still feels distinctly wintry. Local Christmas markets and indoor cultural events are highlights; if visiting hill country, equip for winter driving and occasional delays on secondary roads.