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Weather Comparison

Riga vs Helsinki

Side-by-side weather comparison for December

Riga: 1°CHelsinki: 0°C362 km apart

December Weather: Riga vs Helsinki

MetricRigaHelsinkiBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer1°C (34°F)0°C (32°F)Riga
Average LowHigher is milder-3°C (27°F)-3°C (27°F)Tie
Rain DaysFewer is drier12 days12 daysTie
PrecipitationLess is drier49 mm57 mmRiga
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier2h/day1h/dayRiga
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer11Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better25 km/h22 km/hHelsinki

Which City is Better in December?

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

Riga is on the cooler side at 1°C, requiring warmer clothing. Helsinki is cooler at 0°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in December. Riga receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in December

Riga reaches an average high of 1°C (34°F) and drops to -3°C (27°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 4°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Helsinki averages 0°C (32°F) for the high and -3°C (27°F) for the low, with a daily range of 3°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

Riga receives approximately 49 mm of rainfall across 12 rain days during December. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Helsinki sees 57 mm over 12 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Riga vs Helsinki

Packing for Riga in December

Highs of 1°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 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

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: Riga vs Helsinki

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.

MonthRigaHelsinki
HighRainHighRain
Jan-1°C12d-2°C11d
Feb0°C10d-3°C9d
Mar4°C10d1°C9d
Apr11°C10d7°C9d
May16°C10d13°C9d
Jun20°C11d17°C12d
Jul22°C12d21°C12d
Aug22°C13d20°C12d
Sep17°C11d15°C10d
Oct10°C14d8°C12d
Nov4°C13d3°C12d
Dec1°C12d0°C12d
1°

Riga Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

0°

Helsinki Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Riga warmer than Helsinki in December?
Yes. In December, Riga is warmer with an average high of 1°C (34°F) compared to Helsinki at 0°C (32°F), a difference of 1°C.
Which city gets more rain in December, Riga or Helsinki?
Both cities average 12 rain days in December with similar precipitation levels.
Is it better to visit Riga or Helsinki in December?
It depends on your preferences. Riga averages 1°C and 2 hours of daily sunshine with 12 rain days. Helsinki averages 0°C with 1 sunshine hours and 12 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Riga. For fewer rain days, both are equal.
How far apart are Riga and Helsinki?
Riga and Helsinki are approximately 362 km (225 miles) apart. Riga is located in Latvia (Europe) while Helsinki is in Finland (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Riga and Helsinki?
For Riga, June tends to be the best month with 13 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 20°C. For Helsinki, June is typically ideal with 13 sunshine hours and 17°C highs.

Compare Riga and Helsinki 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.

Riga coordinates: 56.95°N, 24.11°E | Helsinki coordinates: 60.17°N, 24.94°E