Weather in Germany in December

As the year draws to a close, the weather in Germany in December is typical of winter; cold air has really set in, frosty mornings are usual, and snow is more likely, particularly in southern and eastern parts of the country. Daylight hours are short in many places, with sunsets occurring between 4 and 4:30 pm. In December, when cities sparkle with seasonal markets, mulled wine stands, and festive cheer, Christmas is the main event. Despite the chill, December has a magical aura that draws both locals and visitors outdoors. The key to enjoying this enchanting month is to pack a warm coat, scarf, and gloves.

Germany in December at a glance

In December, Germany is transformed into a winter wonderland with Christmas markets, twinkling lights, and cozy traditions, enticing travelers looking for festive charm and cultural cheer.

• 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.
• Tourist numbers are high in cities that are known for their Christmas markets, particularly Nuremberg, Munich, and Cologne. Make reservations well in advance if you intend to travel during these periods.
• Mid-to-late December sees an increase in airfare and accommodation rates, especially over the Christmas vacations; early planning can help reduce these costs.

Is December a good time to visit Germany?

Some visitors may find the chilly winter weather in Germany in December a little off-putting, but the festive mood more than makes up for it. With Advent concerts, winter street food, and bustling market squares, December offers an unforgettable vacation atmosphere ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers. Just wrap up warm and join in the fun!

If your Germany itinerary includes seasonal traditions and iconic vacation experiences, December won’t disappoint. Several of Germany’s towns and cities are well-known for their festive spirit, and much of the country comes alive with twinkling lights and seasonal music during this month. One of the biggest draws for tourists is the amazing variety of Christmas markets that appear in cities like Nuremberg, Cologne, and Dresden.

In destinations where Christmas markets take place, tourist numbers increase dramatically in December. If you plan to visit one of these, reserve your accommodations well in advance to avoid disappointment. Demand causes the rates for lodgings and other travel costs to increase, too, especially in the second half of the month. For many, this magical and atmospheric season is the best time to visit Germany, especially if you're dreaming of winter wonderlands, festive spirit, and old-world charm, and don’t mind inflated prices.

Average daily temperatures in December

With the milder fall temperatures a thing of the past, average temperatures across Germany can feel quite cold, therefore, warm clothing is essential.

By the middle of the month, light snow and icy conditions are possible in Berlin, with highs around 39°F (4°C) and lows around 30°F (–1°C). Southern Germany, particularly Munich and the Alpine foothills, is often a few degrees colder, with daytime temperatures ranging from 34°F to 38°F (1°C to 3°C), and lows dipping to 25°F (–4°C). Snowfall in the mountains is more significant towards the end of the month.

Northern regions, including Hamburg, remain gloomy and damp, with highs around 40°F (4°C) and lows around 32°F (0°C). Sleet is more common than snow in these areas. Western and central cities, such as Frankfurt and Cologne, generally experience highs between 38°F and 43°F (3°C and 6°C) and overnight lows of about 30°F to 35°F (–1°C to 2°C).

What about the crowds and cost?

In December, large crowds flock to Germany to enjoy the festive atmosphere, especially the Christmas markets. While market cities such as Nuremberg, Dresden, and Cologne have the most tourist traffic, other locations can remain uncrowded, making this can be a great month for exploring outside the main tourist hot spots.

Planning a trip to Germany in advance is crucial due to high demand for accommodations, excursions, and public transportation in places with a festive atmosphere. Despite higher costs and visitor numbers, the seasonal traditions and festive food make Germany in December a popular – and unforgettable – time to visit.

Things to do in Germany in December

The nation embraces the winter weather in Germany in December. Parts of the landscape look beautiful, sprinkled with snow, cities are illuminated by twinkling lights, and certain experiences are enhanced by the wintry ambiance.

Walk through Rothenburg ob der Tauber

The medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber is magical when dusted with snow. After exploring its towers and cobbled lanes, warm up in the world-famous Christmas museum.

Ride the Zugspitze cable car

Taking the cable car to the summit of Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain, is rewarded with amazing panoramic views over snow-covered peaks – an unforgettable highlight.

Enjoy a river sauna in Berlin

Unique to the capital, floating saunas on the Spree River feature hot steam rooms and icy plunges that offer a bold, invigorating way to experience Berlin.

Go tobogganing in the Allgäu Alps

Germany sees a good amount of snowfall at higher altitudes in December. Thanks to family-friendly slopes and specialized toboggan runs, the Allgäu region is a delight for fun in the snow. 

Try a Christmas cooking workshop in Nuremberg

The culinary schools and local kitchens of Nuremberg offer hands-on workshops throughout the festive season. Learn how to bake traditional German treats like lebkuchen and stollen.

Festivals and events in Germany in December

December in Germany is synonymous with festive traditions and cozy winter charm, making it one of the most magical times to enjoy seasonal events and festivals.

• Christmas Markets: From Nuremberg to Cologne, nearly every city and town hosts a market filled with twinkling lights, crafts, mulled wine, and seasonal food.
• Stollen Festival: This sweet celebration, hosted in Dresden, honors the city’s famous vacation cake with a massive stollen parade and ceremonial slicing of a giant loaf.
• Winter Tollwood: This cultural and alternative Christmas event at Munich’s Theresienwiese fairgrounds features live entertainment, organic food, and ethical shopping.