The 5 most scenic train journeys in Switzerland
Explore Switzerland's top 5 train journeys, featuring breathtaking Alpine views and engineering marvels like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express.
Basel Weather in December
December in Basel averages 6°C (43°F) during the day and 0°C (32°F) at night. Quite a bit of snow/rainfall is typical this month, with around 106 mm (4.2 in) on average. An umbrella is a good idea.
Rainfall in Basel in December
Snow/rain is expected on roughly 15 days, totalling around 106 mm (4.2 in) for the month. Rainfall intensity is on the higher side this month. Expect more substantial showers rather than light, passing rain.
Temperature in Basel in December
December in Basel brings low temperatures, with highs of 6°C (43°F) and nights around 0°C (32°F). December is part of winter. The days stay cool from start to finish. Layering up well will make outdoor time much more comfortable. With lows of 0°C (32°F), nights are freezing. Packing a spare blanket is worth considering if you're staying somewhere that might not be fully heated.
Sunshine in Basel in December
This month sees fewer sunny days, with about 53 hours of sunshine, perfect for those who enjoy cooler temperatures.December in Basel can still be great, but if you prefer pleasant temperatures along with dry and sunny conditions, our weather planner can help you explore other options in the world.
Basel Temperature in December
Min Temperature
0°C (32°F)
Max Temperature
6°C (43°F)
Chance of Rain
49%
Precipitation
106 mm (4.2 in)
Rainy days
15 days
Humidity
82%
Sunshine
53 hours
Percentage Sunshine
26%
Basel Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Basel - and find the best time to visit.
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Basel typically stay consistent throughout December, with daily highs averaging around 6°C (43°F). Nights are cold, with lows around 0°C (32°F).
Average temperatures in December
Daily Historical Precipitation
50-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in December
Historical weather records for Basel in December
Browse day-by-day weather records for Basel spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Basel historical weather extremes in December
Based on 49 years of weather observations (1976-2025), these are the most extreme conditions recorded in Basel.
- The hottest December day on record in Basel reached 20°C (68°F) (December 16, 1989).
- Basel registered its coldest December night on December 9, 1980, with temperatures dropping to -16°C (3°F).
- The wettest day in December Basel was on December 28, 1984 with 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation.
Best Places in Switzerland in December
Find out more about the weather in Switzerland and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Switzerland in December →
perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor
Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).
What to Wear in Basel in December
Dress warmly and in layers for your trip to Basel in December. A good base layer system works wonders. Start with good thermal underwear, add something warm like a fleece sweater, then finish with a waterproof jacket on top. Expect heavy rainfall, so bring good rain protection and waterproof bags. Sunglasses aren't essential this month, though you might want them for the occasional bright moment.
What To Do in Basel in December
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
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Swimming4/10 -
Cycling4/10 -
Walking4/10 -
Camping1/10 -
Outdoor sports4/10
Basel 3-Day Forecast
More climate data for Basel
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Basel climate overview or explore weather in Switzerland.
Popular in December
Where to go in December - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Zürich
6°C (43°F) Engelberg
0°C (32°F) Crans-Montana-3°C (27°F) Grindelwald-3°C (27°F) Davos-3°C (27°F) Nendaz-3°C (27°F) Saas-Fee-4°C (25°F) Zermatt-6°C (21°F) Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
The 5 most scenic train journeys in Switzerland
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