Edinburgh
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Edinburgh Weather in December

December in Edinburgh brings low temperatures around 6°C (43°F) during the day, dropping to -3°C (27°F) at night, with quite a bit of snow/rainfall expected, averaging around 122 mm (4.8 in) for the month.

Rainfall in Edinburgh in December

Typically, about 13 days will experience snow/rainfall, with an average of 122 mm (4.8 in) for the month. When it rains this month, it tends to come down fairly heavily. Showers can be substantial even if they don't last all day.

Temperature in Edinburgh in December

December in Edinburgh sees highs of 6°C (43°F) and lows of -3°C (27°F) overnight. This month falls in the winter season. It stays cool throughout the day, so warm layers are a good idea from morning to evening. Nights are well below freezing at -3°C (27°F). An extra blanket is a good idea if you feel the cold, especially in older or less well-heated accommodation.

Sunshine in Edinburgh in December

With about 105 hours of sunshine, the area enjoys a nice balance of sun and overcast, creating a pleasant environment.

If you're looking for dry conditions and comfortable temperatures, December may not be the ideal month to visit Edinburgh. Our weather planner can help you explore destinations with more pleasant weather conditions.

Edinburgh Temperature in December

Min Temperature
-3°C (27°F)
Max Temperature
6°C (43°F)
Chance of Rain
43%
Precipitation
122 mm (4.8 in)
Rainy days
13 days
Humidity
78% *
Sunshine
105 hours *
Percentage Sunshine
36% *
* Data from: Indianapolis, the United States of America (48 KM, 30 Miles).

Edinburgh Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Edinburgh - and find the best time to visit.

Best Places in the United States of America in December

Find out more about the weather in the United States of America and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of the United States of America 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 Edinburgh in December

Cold weather calls for smart layering in December. A thermal base layer makes a huge difference in staying warm. Add a wool sweater or fleece, then a wind-resistant outer jacket. Prepare for significant rainfall with proper waterproof clothing and shoes. Bring sunglasses since you'll have some sunny periods throughout the month

What To Do in Edinburgh in December

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Swimming
    5/10
  • Cycling
    3/10
  • Walking
    3/10
  • Camping
    1/10
  • Outdoor sports
    3/10

Edinburgh 3-Day Forecast

Popular in December

Where to go in December - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.