What December feels like in Amsterdam
Early winter arrives in Amsterdam with December. Midday brings little warmth — expect coat-and-scarf weather from morning to evening. Little changes after sunset — nights are cold, only slightly below the daytime level. The air is damp, which makes cool temperatures feel colder, particularly in wind.
Rain in Amsterdam in December
Rain is part of normal life this month, falling on about every other day. A rainy day brings about 5.4 mm (0.2 in) on average — steady rain rather than a passing shower. Across the year Amsterdam averages about 5.5 mm per rainy day, so December is typical.
Daylight and sunshine in December
In mid-December, sunrise is at about 8:44 am and sunset at about 4:27 pm (local time) — 7 h 44 min of daylight. Compared with mid-November, the day has lost 1 h 6 min. About 41% of daylight hours are sunny; in short, sun and cloud share the day.
How December compares to the rest of the year
In Amsterdam's temperature order, December sits as the 3rd coolest month. Against November, the average high is 2.9°C (5.2°F) lower, with 5 mm more rain. Temperatures keep falling into January. By January, typical highs are 6.1°C (43°F).
Who December suits
- Sightseeing: less ideal — it is cold for long walks.
- Parks & outdoor: less ideal — too cool to sit outside for long.
- Beach: less ideal — the sea air is too cool.
Tips for visiting Amsterdam in December
Rain Protection
Keep a small umbrella in your bag and wear shoes that cope with puddles.
Warm Layers
A warm jacket, a hat and gloves for cold mornings and evenings.
Quick questions
How warm is Amsterdam in December?
Expect around 7.1°C (44.8°F) in the afternoon and 3.3°C (37.9°F) at night, which most visitors would call cold.
Does it rain a lot in Amsterdam in December?
It does: about 14 rainy days bring roughly 76 mm, so plan some indoor options.
What should I wear in Amsterdam in December?
The numbers point to rain protection and warm layers. Evenings feel similar to the day, so the same clothes work from morning to night.
Is December or January better for visiting Amsterdam?
January, narrowly: it ranks #11 of 12 among Amsterdam's months, against #12 for the other. January is cooler.