2026 Climate Averages

Weather: Budapest — December

Conditions are pleasant for sightseeing, though you might encounter occasional showers.

👍 Climate Overview

December is a good time to visit Budapest. Expect cold weather with temperatures around 5°C during the day. With only around 9 hours of daylight, plan outdoor activities earlier in the day. Being off-peak, you'll find better deals and fewer crowds.

6.1
GoTripzi Score Good

Based on weather comfort, crowds, prices, and activity options

Avg High

5°C

Avg Low

1°C

Rainy days

9days

Daylight

8.5h

Feels like 2°C / -3°C — wind chill makes it feel cooler

Rainfall

49mm

Sunshine

3.4h/day

Humidity

88%

Very Humid
Sun Strength

1.2

Low
Wind

14 km/h (gusts 30)

Is December a good time to visit Budapest?

Conditions are pleasant for sightseeing, though you might encounter occasional showers.

Now

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Feels like --
Wind --
Humidity --
UV Index --
Local time —

Air Quality

Travel Context

  • Crowds
    Quiet
  • Travel Costs Peak Rates

Daylight

Sunrise

07:26

Sunset

15:54

8.5h daylight

Visiting Budapest in December: Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Fewer crowds and better hotel deals

Cons

  • Limited sunshine — expect overcast skies
  • Short days limit outdoor time — plan accordingly

Things to Do in December

Events & Festivals

🎉
Christmas Market at Vörösmarty Square
November–January 1 Festival

Recommended for This Weather

☕ Cozy cafes & local food scene
🏛️ Indoor attractions & shopping
🎭 Cultural tours & local experiences

Budapest Weather by Month

Month Avg High Avg Low Rain Sunshine Humidity UV Index Crowds Condition
Jan 5°C -1°C 7d (34mm) 4.9h
84% Very Humid
1.8 Low
Good
Feb 9°C 1°C 7d (31mm) 6.9h
73% Humid
3.2 Moderate
Good
Mar 13°C 2°C 8d (39mm) 8.5h
65% Humid
5.2 High
Good
Apr 17°C 6°C 9d (47mm) 10.3h
63% Moderate
7.1 Very High
Excellent
May 21°C 10°C 11d (60mm) 10.9h
66% Humid
8 Very High
Excellent
Jun 27°C 16°C 8d (64mm) 12.6h
65% Humid
9.1 Very High
Excellent
Jul 29°C 17°C 8d (55mm) 12.6h
62% Moderate
8.9 Very High
Good
Aug 29°C 17°C 9d (52mm) 11.5h
64% Moderate
7.6 Very High
Good
Sep 24°C 13°C 9d (72mm) 9h
70% Humid
5.4 High
Excellent
Oct 17°C 8°C 8d (55mm) 7.1h
79% Humid
3.5 Moderate
Excellent
Nov 9°C 3°C 9d (51mm) 4.2h
88% Very Humid
1.8 Low
Good
Dec Current 5°C 1°C 9d (49mm) 3.4h
88% Very Humid
1.2 Low
Good

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Where to Stay

See hotels, apartments & rentals around Budapest – live prices from Booking.com, Expedia, Vrbo and more

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Budapest

Pearl of the Danube, including thermal baths, Relax in Széchenyi Baths and Cruise the Danube at night, ruin bars, and stunning riverside architecture.

View Full Destination Guide

What to Pack for December

Bundle up with a warm coat, scarf, and closed-toe shoes. Thermal layers underneath give flexibility as you move between indoors and outdoors. Pack a compact umbrella or light rain jacket for occasional showers.

Moderate Quiet

🎒Personalized Packing List

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Your Packing List

📋Essentials
👕Clothing
👟Footwear
🎒Accessories
🧴Toiletries & Health

Planning a trip to Budapest?

💰 Off-peak — great deals available now

Frequently Asked Questions

Is December a good time to visit Budapest?
December is typically good for visiting Budapest, with average highs of 5°C and around 9 rainy days. Plan your activities accordingly—outdoor sightseeing is best on dry days, while rainy days are perfect for museums and indoor attractions.
Does it get cold at night in Budapest in December?
Yes, nights in Budapest during December are cold, averaging 1°C. Pack warm layers, a coat, and consider thermal underwear for extended outdoor evenings. Restaurants and cafés have indoor seating, and many museums stay open late.
What should I pack for Budapest in December?
With highs of 5°C and lows of 1°C in December, we recommend: Warm winter coat, Compact umbrella, Comfortable walking shoes. Layering is key as temperatures can vary between air-conditioned interiors and outdoors. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for cobblestone streets.
Does it rain a lot in Budapest in December?
Budapest typically sees around 9 rainy days in December. Rain is usually in the form of brief showers rather than all-day downpours, so a compact umbrella is sufficient. Mornings tend to be drier, making them ideal for outdoor sightseeing.
How many hours of daylight are there in Budapest in December?
In December, Budapest gets approximately 8.5 hours of daylight per day. This affects how much sightseeing you can fit in—longer days mean more time for outdoor activities, while shorter days are perfect for cozy museum visits and early dinners.
Is December peak season in Budapest?
No, December is not peak season in Budapest. Expect better value on accommodation, shorter queues at attractions, and fewer tourists at popular spots. This is an excellent time to experience the city like a local and enjoy a more authentic atmosphere.

Weather Data: Based on 2020–2025 historical climate data from Open-Meteo

Solar calculations: SunCalc (timezone: Europe/Budapest)

Last Updated: February 2026

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