Leiden Weather in December
December in Leiden brings low temperatures, with highs of 8°C (46°F) and nights dropping to 4°C (39°F). Rainfall is on the higher side this month, averaging around 88 mm (3.5 in), so keep a rain jacket handy.
Rainfall in Leiden in December
Typically, about 19 days will experience rainfall, with an average of 88 mm (3.5 in) for the month. Rain falls on many days this month, but usually in relatively small amounts. A light waterproof is more useful than a heavy umbrella.
Temperature in Leiden in December
December in Leiden brings low temperatures, with highs of 8°C (46°F) and nights around 4°C (39°F). December is known for being in the winter season. It stays cool throughout the day, so warm layers are a good idea from morning to evening. Nights fall to 4°C (39°F), which is cold enough to feel it indoors too. A good thick duvet makes all the difference for a comfortable night's sleep.
Sunshine in Leiden in December
The area experiences limited sunny days, amounting to roughly 50 hours of sunshine. This makes it perfect for those who lean towards cooler, cloudier settings rather than intense sunlit days.
Wind Speed in Leiden in December
Wind speeds average 6 m/s (12 knots) during December. At this speed, expect strong winds that make large branches move and create some resistance when walking. Since this is an average, some days have fresh winds while others have strong breezes that can make umbrellas tricky to control.December in Leiden 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.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the Netherlands, check out our Leiden's climate page.
Leiden Temperature in December
Min Temperature
4°C (39°F)
Max Temperature
8°C (46°F)
Chance of Rain
63%
Precipitation
88 mm (3.5 in)
Rainy days
19 days
Humidity
87% *
Windspeed
6 m/s (12 knots) *
Sunshine
50 hours *
Percentage Sunshine
16% *
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Leiden typically stay consistent throughout December, with daily highs averaging around 8°C (46°F). Nights are cold, with lows around 3°C (37°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 for Leiden in December
Browse day-by-day weather records for Leiden spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Leiden historical weather extremes in December
The extremes listed below come from historical weather data collected in Leiden from 1976 through 2025.
- Leiden recorded its highest December temperature of 15°C (59°F) on December 24, 1977.
- Leiden registered its coldest December night on December 31, 1978, with temperatures dropping to -12°C (10°F).
Best Places in the Netherlands in December
Find out more about the weather in the Netherlands and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of the Netherlands in December →
perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor
What to Wear in Leiden 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. You can probably leave your sunglasses at home, because sunny days are pretty rare this month.What To Do in Leiden in December
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the Netherlands, check out our Leiden's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed
See the full Leiden climate overview or explore weather in the Netherlands.
