Germany in December is cold and wintery, with average daytime temperatures typically between 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F), often dropping below freezing at night, especially in the south where snow is common, while the north can be milder but windier with sleet more likely. Expect short daylight hours, limited sunshine, and a mix of rain and wintery showers, making warm layers and waterproofs essential for exploring Christmas markets and festive events.
December is probably the best month to visit Germany if you're not visiting in summer. I find the Christmas markets beautiful, and the cold can be manageable if you have good gear.
December is a cold month with average temperatures ranging from 28°F to 40°F (–2°C to 5°C); expect frost and occasional snow in the south. Visiting Germany in December is a rewarding time if you enjoy traditional festivities, cozy beer halls, Christmas markets, and historic towns aglow with decorations.
This means that the winters are colder than in the UK and the summers are hotter. The summers can often be uncomfortably hot but there is one other thing of which you should be aware. Rain storms, often with thunder can arrive vey suddenly even on hot days with otherwise sunny weather.
What time does it get dark in Germany in December?
In Germany, the length of the days and nights changes. The shortest day of the year is December 21, when it gets light at about 8:30 a.m. and is dark at around 4 p.m. Then, lots of people spend more time at home being cosy. On June 21, the sun sets at around 10 p.m. This is the longest day of the year.
Unless you're spending a lot of time in the mountains in Bavaria where it gets quite snowy in the winter or the peaks of the Black Forest, you're not going to need mega heavy-duty snow boots. However, walking around cute old towns and Christmas Markets does take a toll on your feet.
The Nürnberg Christmas Market (Christkindlesmarkt) is where history, lights, and holiday magic collide. From half timbered houses glowing at dusk to the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread in the air this is Germany's most iconic Christmas market 🇩🇪
The cheapest time to visit in Germany's big cities is between January and March, though you will have cold temperatures and long, dark nights to contend with. If that sounds unappealing, you should try to plan your vacation around late spring (March to May) or late autumn (October to November).
Having a loud conversation, talking loud on the phone, or listening to loud music are considered very impolite as you will disturb other people. German people love to have their privacy. If you see a closed door, it doesn't mean that the person inside does not want you to come in.
Colorful decorations and Christmas markets line the streets. While the chilly weather and shorter days may limit outdoor adventure options, you will still find more than enough things to do and places to visit in Germany in December.
Yes, winters in Germany are generally cold, with temperatures averaging between -5°C and 5°C. Snow is common in the Alps and southern regions, while northern areas may be milder but still chilly and damp. A good winter coat and thermal wear are essential.
Russia is the world's coldest country. Siberia dominates the national climate, with vast permafrost and subarctic forests stretching across eleven time zones. The Sakha Republic is home to Oymyakon, the coldest inhabited settlement on the planet, where winter lows have reached –96.2°F (–71.2°C).
When temperatures drop between 21-32 degrees, limit outdoor activities to 15-20 minutes for small children. If it drops to below 20 degree, bring the kids indoors. It is safe to work outside until temperatures drop below 20 degrees. Skin freezes in 10 minutes if the temperature is -30 degrees.
