Western Europe in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for December
Average temperature across Western Europe in December.
Country Weather in December
| Country | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| France | 8° | 3° | 57 mm | low | Cold |
| Netherlands | 7° | 2° | 85 mm | low | Cold |
| Belgium | 7° | 2° | 74 mm | low | Cold |
| Luxembourg | 5° | 0° | 90 mm | low | Cold |
| Monaco | 12° | 6° | 84 mm | low | Cold |
Representative figures from each country's largest city. High / low are average daily temperatures (°C); “Feels” allows for humidity.
The British Isles (United Kingdom & Ireland)
By December the isles are in a low-light, festive mode: mild wet spells alternate with frosts and occasional snow in higher elevations, while cities like Edinburgh, Belfast and London light up with Christmas markets. Daytime temperatures often linger between 3-8°C; winter storms from the Atlantic can cause strong winds and travel disruption. If you crave winter city culture, December is atmospheric-pack warm layers and waterproof gear, and expect holiday closures around Christmas Day.
The Low Countries & Northern France (Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Northern France)
December stitches in festive markets, lights and cold, brisk days-typically 2-7°C-especially around Bruges, Strasbourg (northern France’s eastern fringe) and Lille where Christmas markets are big draws. Wet or icy spells are possible but heavy snow remains uncommon at low elevations; pack warm layers and waterproofs. Expect weekend crowds at markets and book dinners and accommodations early for holiday periods.
Paris & Central France (Paris, Loire Valley, Burgundy, Champagne)
By December central France is often cold and damp, swinging between frosty mornings and rainy spells with temperatures around 3-8°C; Christmas markets in Paris and provincial towns add atmosphere despite the chill. Shorter days favour museums, cathedral visits and cosy dinners in village auberges; expect closures around the holiday week itself. Pack warm layers, waterproofs, and plan for earlier sunrises and sunsets.
The Alps (French, Swiss & Italian Alps)
By December winter returns in force with slopes opening and reliable snow at ski areas; resort villages buzz with holiday bookings and alpine markets in towns like Annecy and Innsbruck are festive. Expect sustained low temperatures at altitude and possible travel disruptions from snow on mountain roads; full winter gear and winter tires are essential. Christmas and New Year weeks are peak periods-book well ahead for accommodation and lift passes.
Mediterranean Coast & Islands (French Riviera, Liguria & Catalonia; Corsica & Balearics)
December brings cool, mostly mild weather along the Mediterranean fringe with daytime temperatures around 8-14°C and festive lights enlivening coastal cities. While beach days are unlikely, cultural events, quieter museums and lower accommodation rates attract travellers wanting a mild winter break. Pack layers and a waterproof-storm surges and strong wind events occasionally affect exposed headlands.
Atlantic France & Northern Iberia (Brittany, Bordeaux, Basque Country, Galicia & Northern Portugal)
December brings brisk, wet weather and shorter daylight, but towns such as Porto, Biarritz and Saint-Malo retain seasonal charm with lively markets and seafood-focused restaurants. Daytime temperatures are typically 8-12°C; storms from the Atlantic can cause rough seas and occasional travel delays. For coastal scenery and culinary trips the off-season atmosphere can be rewarding, but be prepared for rain and wind.
Iberian Interior & Southern Spain & Portugal (Madrid, Andalusia, Extremadura, Algarve)
December is mild on coastal stretches (typically 10-16°C) but can be cold overnight in Madrid and higher interior areas with frost and occasional light snow in elevated zones. Festive markets and quieter beaches create a different but pleasant atmosphere-southern Spain retains many sunshine hours compared with northern Europe. Pack warm layers for nights and a light jacket for daytime strolls.