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Weather Comparison

Dublin vs Galway

Side-by-side weather comparison for December

Dublin: 8°CGalway: 8°C186 km apart

December Weather: Dublin vs Galway

MetricDublinGalwayBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer8°C (46°F)8°C (46°F)Tie
Average LowHigher is milder4°C (39°F)4°C (39°F)Tie
Rain DaysFewer is drier13 days16 daysDublin
PrecipitationLess is drier76 mm108 mmDublin
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier4h/day3h/dayDublin
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer11Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better26 km/h24 km/hGalway

Which City is Better in December?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Dublin edges ahead as the better destination in December. Dublin offers 4 hours of daily sunshine with only 13 rain days, while Galway sees 3 sunshine hours and 16 rain days.

Dublin is on the cooler side at 8°C, requiring warmer clothing. Galway is cooler at 8°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Dublin is the stronger choice in December. Dublin receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in December

Dublin reaches an average high of 8°C (46°F) and drops to 4°C (39°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 4°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Galway averages 8°C (46°F) for the high and 4°C (39°F) for the low, with a daily range of 4°C. The two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.

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

Rainfall Comparison in December

Dublin receives approximately 76 mm of rainfall across 13 rain days during December. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Galway sees 108 mm over 16 rain days. That makes Dublin the drier option by 3 rain days and 32 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Dublin vs Galway

Packing for Dublin in December

Highs of 8°C, lows of 4°C, 13 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 Galway in December

Highs of 8°C, lows of 4°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

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: Dublin vs Galway

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.

MonthDublinGalway
HighRainHighRain
Jan8°C13d8°C16d
Feb8°C12d9°C13d
Mar10°C12d10°C14d
Apr12°C14d12°C14d
May15°C14d15°C14d
Jun17°C13d17°C14d
Jul19°C15d18°C15d
Aug19°C14d18°C15d
Sep17°C12d16°C13d
Oct13°C12d13°C15d
Nov10°C13d10°C15d
Dec8°C13d8°C16d
8°

Dublin Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

8°

Galway Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dublin warmer than Galway in December?
Dublin and Galway have the same average high temperature of 8°C (46°F) in December. The average lows are 4°C and 4°C respectively.
Which city gets more rain in December, Dublin or Galway?
Galway gets more rain in December with 16 rain days and 108 mm of precipitation. Dublin is the drier option with 13 rain days.
Is it better to visit Dublin or Galway in December?
It depends on your preferences. Dublin averages 8°C and 4 hours of daily sunshine with 13 rain days. Galway averages 8°C with 3 sunshine hours and 16 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Galway. For drier weather, Dublin is the better pick.
How far apart are Dublin and Galway?
Dublin and Galway are approximately 186 km (116 miles) apart. Dublin is located in Ireland (Europe) while Galway is in Ireland (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Dublin and Galway?
For Dublin, June tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 17°C. For Galway, May is typically ideal with 10 sunshine hours and 15°C highs.

Compare Dublin and Galway 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.

Dublin coordinates: 53.35°N, -6.26°E | Galway coordinates: 53.27°N, -9.06°E