Istanbul vs Cancun

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Cancun edges ahead as the better destination in December. Cancun offers 10 hours of daily sunshine with only 11 rain days, while Istanbul sees 5 sunshine hours and 13 rain days.

Istanbul is on the cooler side at 10°C, requiring warmer clothing. Cancun is also comfortable at 26°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Cancun is the stronger choice in December. Cancun receives 5 more hours of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Istanbul reaches an average high of 10°C (50°F) and drops to 6°C (43°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 4°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Cancun averages 26°C (79°F) for the high and 23°C (73°F) for the low, with a daily range of 3°C. There is a notable 16°C gap between the two cities, so expect a very different feel.

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

Istanbul receives approximately 99 mm of rainfall across 13 rain days during December. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Cancun sees 53 mm over 11 rain days. That makes Cancun the drier option by 2 rain days and 46 mm of total precipitation.

Humidity also differs: Istanbul averages 65% while Cancun sits at 78%. Cancun will feel muggier, especially at higher temperatures.