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Weather Comparison

Helsinki vs Stockholm

Side-by-side weather comparison for December

Helsinki: 0°CStockholm: 2°C396 km apart

December Weather: Helsinki vs Stockholm

MetricHelsinkiStockholmBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer0°C (32°F)2°C (36°F)Stockholm
Average LowHigher is milder-3°C (27°F)-2°C (28°F)Stockholm
Rain DaysFewer is drier12 days10 daysStockholm
PrecipitationLess is drier57 mm46 mmStockholm
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier1h/day2h/dayStockholm
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer11Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better22 km/h20 km/hStockholm

Which City is Better in December?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Stockholm edges ahead as the better destination in December. Stockholm offers 2 hours of daily sunshine with only 10 rain days, while Helsinki sees 1 sunshine hours and 12 rain days.

Helsinki is on the cooler side at 0°C, requiring warmer clothing. Stockholm is cooler at 2°C.

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

Temperature Comparison in December

Helsinki reaches an average high of 0°C (32°F) and drops to -3°C (27°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 3°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Stockholm averages 2°C (36°F) for the high and -2°C (28°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

Helsinki receives approximately 57 mm of rainfall across 12 rain days during December. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Stockholm sees 46 mm over 10 rain days. That makes Stockholm the drier option by 2 rain days and 11 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Helsinki vs Stockholm

Packing for Helsinki in December

Highs of 0°C, lows of -3°C, 12 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 Stockholm in December

Highs of 2°C, lows of -2°C, 10 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: Helsinki vs Stockholm

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.

MonthHelsinkiStockholm
HighRainHighRain
Jan-2°C11d0°C8d
Feb-3°C9d1°C8d
Mar1°C9d4°C8d
Apr7°C9d9°C8d
May13°C9d14°C9d
Jun17°C12d18°C11d
Jul21°C12d21°C11d
Aug20°C12d20°C12d
Sep15°C10d16°C8d
Oct8°C12d9°C10d
Nov3°C12d5°C10d
Dec0°C12d2°C10d
0°

Helsinki Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

2°

Stockholm Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Helsinki warmer than Stockholm in December?
No. In December, Stockholm is warmer with an average high of 2°C (36°F) compared to Helsinki at 0°C (32°F), a difference of 2°C.
Which city gets more rain in December, Helsinki or Stockholm?
Helsinki gets more rain in December with 12 rain days and 57 mm of precipitation. Stockholm is the drier option with 10 rain days.
Is it better to visit Helsinki or Stockholm in December?
It depends on your preferences. Helsinki averages 0°C and 1 hours of daily sunshine with 12 rain days. Stockholm averages 2°C with 2 sunshine hours and 10 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Stockholm. For fewer rain days, Stockholm is the better pick.
How far apart are Helsinki and Stockholm?
Helsinki and Stockholm are approximately 396 km (246 miles) apart. Helsinki is located in Finland (Europe) while Stockholm is in Sweden (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Helsinki and Stockholm?
For Helsinki, June tends to be the best month with 13 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 17°C. For Stockholm, June is typically ideal with 14 sunshine hours and 18°C highs.

Compare Helsinki and Stockholm 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.

Helsinki coordinates: 60.17°N, 24.94°E | Stockholm coordinates: 59.33°N, 18.07°E