Skip to content

Weather Comparison

London vs Cologne

Side-by-side weather comparison for December

London: 8°CCologne: 6°C497 km apart

December Weather: London vs Cologne

MetricLondonCologneBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer8°C (46°F)6°C (43°F)London
Average LowHigher is milder3°C (37°F)1°C (34°F)London
Rain DaysFewer is drier11 days16 daysLondon
PrecipitationLess is drier58 mm97 mmLondon
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier4h/day3h/dayLondon
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer11Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better22 km/h20 km/hCologne

Which City is Better in December?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, London edges ahead as the better destination in December. London offers 4 hours of daily sunshine with only 11 rain days, while Cologne sees 3 sunshine hours and 16 rain days.

London is on the cooler side at 8°C, requiring warmer clothing. Cologne is cooler at 6°C.

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

Temperature Comparison in December

London reaches an average high of 8°C (46°F) and drops to 3°C (37°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 5°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Cologne averages 6°C (43°F) for the high and 1°C (34°F) for the low, with a daily range of 5°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

London receives approximately 58 mm of rainfall across 11 rain days during December. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Cologne sees 97 mm over 16 rain days. That makes London the drier option by 5 rain days and 39 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: London vs Cologne

Packing for London in December

Highs of 8°C, lows of 3°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

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

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: London vs Cologne

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.

MonthLondonCologne
HighRainHighRain
Jan7°C11d5°C14d
Feb8°C10d6°C13d
Mar10°C10d10°C14d
Apr14°C11d14°C11d
May17°C10d18°C12d
Jun20°C10d21°C12d
Jul22°C11d23°C13d
Aug21°C10d23°C12d
Sep19°C9d19°C11d
Oct15°C11d14°C13d
Nov10°C11d9°C14d
Dec8°C11d6°C16d
8°

London Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

6°

Cologne Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is London warmer than Cologne in December?
Yes. In December, London is warmer with an average high of 8°C (46°F) compared to Cologne at 6°C (43°F), a difference of 2°C.
Which city gets more rain in December, London or Cologne?
Cologne gets more rain in December with 16 rain days and 97 mm of precipitation. London is the drier option with 11 rain days.
Is it better to visit London or Cologne in December?
It depends on your preferences. London averages 8°C and 4 hours of daily sunshine with 11 rain days. Cologne averages 6°C with 3 sunshine hours and 16 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose London. For drier weather, London is the better pick.
How far apart are London and Cologne?
London and Cologne are approximately 497 km (309 miles) apart. London is located in United Kingdom (Europe) while Cologne is in Germany (Europe).
What is the best month to visit London and Cologne?
For London, June tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 20°C. For Cologne, May is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 18°C highs.

Compare London and Cologne 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.

London coordinates: 51.51°N, -0.13°E | Cologne coordinates: 50.93°N, 6.95°E