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Galway Weather in December

December in Galway sees daytime temperatures around 10°C (50°F) and lows of 4°C (39°F) at night. As the wettest month of the year, keep in mind that rainfall is at its highest.

Rainfall in Galway in December

This month sees the most rain, so carrying an umbrella will ensure you stay dry. Based on our climate data of the past 30 years, about 22 days of rain are anticipated, with 113 mm (4.4 in) on average. Expect frequent rainfall this month, and not just light drizzle. When it rains, it tends to come down hard.

Temperature in Galway in December

Daytime temperatures in Galway reach 10°C (50°F) in December, dropping to 4°C (39°F) at night. December is a notable month of the winter season. Even at the warmest part of the day, temperatures stay low. Dressing warmly from the start is the sensible approach. With lows around 4°C (39°F), nights are cold. The upside is that cool, crisp nights are often the best for a deep sleep.

Sunshine in Galway in December

This month sees fewer sunny days, with about 35 hours of sunshine, perfect for those who enjoy cooler temperatures.

December in Galway has its charm, but if you're looking for destinations with pleasant temperatures and sunny skies, our weather planner can help you explore other options in the world.

Galway Temperature in December

Min Temperature
4°C (39°F)
Max Temperature
10°C (50°F)
Chance of Rain
73%
Precipitation
113 mm (4.4 in)
Rainy days
22 days
Humidity
90% *
Sunshine
35 hours *
Percentage Sunshine
17% *
* Data from: Claremorris, Ireland (49 KM, 30 Miles).

Galway Weather by Month

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

Daily Historical Temperatures

50-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Galway typically stay consistent throughout December, with daily highs averaging around 10°C (50°F). Nights are cold, with lows around 4°C (39°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 Galway in December

Browse day-by-day weather records for Galway spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Galway historical weather extremes in December

Based on 49 years of weather observations in Galway between 1976 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes.

  • Galway recorded its highest December temperature of 15°C (59°F) on December 9, 2025.
  • Galway experienced its chilliest December day on December 21, 2010, reaching only -4°C (25°F).
  • Nighttime temperatures dropped to -10°C (14°F) on December 24, 2010, marking the coldest December night on record.
  • The wettest December day on record brought 57 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation to Galway (December 23, 1988).

Best Places in Ireland in December

Find out more about the weather in Ireland and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Ireland 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 Galway in December

We recommend to layer up for chilly conditions in Galway in December. You could start with thermal underwear or a good base layer to keep your core warm on the cooler days this month. Maybe also add a sweater or fleece, and top it off with a windproof jacket. High rain levels are expected, so pack waterproof gear and an umbrella or poncho. You can probably leave your sunglasses at home, because sunny days are pretty rare this month.

What To Do in Galway in December

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

  • Swimming
    4/10
  • Cycling
    4/10
  • Walking
    4/10
  • Camping
    3/10
  • Outdoor sports
    4/10

Galway 3-Day Forecast

More climate data for Galway

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.