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Weather Comparison

Cologne vs Berlin

Side-by-side weather comparison for December

Cologne: 6°CBerlin: 4°C478 km apart

December Weather: Cologne vs Berlin

MetricCologneBerlinBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer6°C (43°F)4°C (39°F)Cologne
Average LowHigher is milder1°C (34°F)0°C (32°F)Cologne
Rain DaysFewer is drier16 days11 daysBerlin
PrecipitationLess is drier97 mm46 mmBerlin
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier3h/day3h/dayTie
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer11Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better20 km/h19 km/hBerlin

Which City is Better in December?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Berlin edges ahead as the better destination in December. Berlin offers 3 hours of daily sunshine with only 11 rain days, while Cologne sees 3 sunshine hours and 16 rain days.

Cologne is on the cooler side at 6°C, requiring warmer clothing. Berlin is cooler at 4°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Berlin is the stronger choice in December.

Temperature Comparison in December

Cologne reaches an average high of 6°C (43°F) and drops to 1°C (34°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 5°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Berlin averages 4°C (39°F) for the high and 0°C (32°F) for the low, with a daily range of 4°C. The 2°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in December.

Rainfall Comparison in December

Cologne receives approximately 97 mm of rainfall across 16 rain days during December. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Berlin sees 46 mm over 11 rain days. That makes Berlin the drier option by 5 rain days and 51 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Cologne vs Berlin

Packing for Cologne in December

Highs of 6°C, lows of 1°C, 16 rain days

  • heavy winter coat
  • thermal base layers
  • warm gloves and hat
  • insulated boots
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • a warm scarf

Packing for Berlin in December

Highs of 4°C, lows of 0°C, 11 rain days

  • heavy winter coat
  • thermal base layers
  • warm gloves and hat
  • insulated boots
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • a warm scarf

Pack for both: heavy winter coat, thermal base layers, warm gloves and hat, insulated boots, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, a warm scarf. These items are useful in either destination during December.

Year-Round Comparison: Cologne vs Berlin

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.December is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthCologneBerlin
HighRainHighRain
Jan5°C14d3°C12d
Feb6°C13d5°C9d
Mar10°C14d8°C11d
Apr14°C11d14°C9d
May18°C12d19°C10d
Jun21°C12d22°C11d
Jul23°C13d24°C12d
Aug23°C12d24°C10d
Sep19°C11d19°C9d
Oct14°C13d13°C9d
Nov9°C14d8°C10d
Dec6°C16d4°C11d
6°

Cologne Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

4°

Berlin Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cologne warmer than Berlin in December?
Yes. In December, Cologne is warmer with an average high of 6°C (43°F) compared to Berlin at 4°C (39°F), a difference of 2°C.
Which city gets more rain in December, Cologne or Berlin?
Cologne gets more rain in December with 16 rain days and 97 mm of precipitation. Berlin is the drier option with 11 rain days.
Is it better to visit Cologne or Berlin in December?
It depends on your preferences. Cologne averages 6°C and 3 hours of daily sunshine with 16 rain days. Berlin averages 4°C with 3 sunshine hours and 11 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Cologne. For fewer rain days, Berlin is the better pick.
How far apart are Cologne and Berlin?
Cologne and Berlin are approximately 478 km (297 miles) apart. Cologne is located in Germany (Europe) while Berlin is in Germany (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Cologne and Berlin?
For Cologne, May tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 18°C. For Berlin, June is typically ideal with 12 sunshine hours and 22°C highs.

Compare Cologne and Berlin in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Cologne coordinates: 50.93°N, 6.95°E | Berlin coordinates: 52.52°N, 13.40°E