Rome Weather in December

🇮🇹 Italy

12°C

High

5°C

Low

Rain Days

Sunshine

65%

Humidity

Europe › 🇮🇹 Italy › Rome

Updated: March 2026

Is December a Good Time to Visit Rome?

4/10

Fair

December is a fair time to visit Rome (4/10). Average highs of 12°C and 6 sunshine hours daily make conditions workable, though not exceptional. December suits travellers visiting for indoor culture, food, and architecture rather than outdoor activities. Pack accordingly for 11 potential rain days. January offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: Rome's popular sites are busiest between 10am and 3pm regardless of season. Arriving at opening time or after 4pm makes a significant difference to the experience. Planning tips: most accommodation categories have availability, and last-minute deals are common. The quieter streets and shorter queues can make this a genuinely enjoyable time to visit for the right type of traveller. Budget-conscious visitors will find the best value of the year in this period.

vs November:16°C avg high

Rome's December weather is shaped by atmospheric forces that make the data more than just numbers. The 12°C average high reflects persistent high-latitude air masses that hold temperatures below the seasonal average for the region. As a result, 6 daily sunshine hours are recorded on average, and rainfall of 92mm is distributed across approximately 11 days because precipitation events tend to be frequent but short-lived.

12°C

Avg High

5°C

Avg Low

11 days

Rain Days

Sunshine

65%

Humidity

Temperature in Rome in December

The 7°C day-night temperature range is typical for continental climates: a light jacket in the morning that you shed by midday and need again after sunset. Humidity averages 65%, which is comfortable for most visitors. On warmer days, lighter fabrics help with the mild stickiness in the afternoon. The UV index of 1 is low, meaning sun exposure is minimal concern and sunscreen is largely optional. Winds are calm at an average 14 km/h, so wind-chill is not a factor in planning your clothing. In Fahrenheit: 54°F average high, 41°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).

Temperature in December

Monthly Precipitation (mm)

What to Wear in Rome in December

Morning5°CBefore the day warms up

Afternoon12°CPeak daytime temperature

Evening8°CAfter sunset cools down

Packing for Rome in December means dressing for 12°C days and 5°C evenings. Layering is key: a thermal base, mid-layer fleece, and a windproof outer jacket for 12°C highs that feel colder in the wind. Evening temperatures settle at 5°C, a modest 7°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. European cobblestones reward low-profile walking shoes over flip-flops or heels, with cushioned trainers or leather walking shoes being the practical choice. A compact foldable umbrella weighs almost nothing and earns its keep across 11 potential rainy days.

💡

Local tip: Rome's cobbled streets turn slippery in the rain. Waterproof walking shoes with a non-slip sole outperform fashionable footwear on wet stone, and you'll cover significantly more ground in comfort.

Events in Rome in December

December has no major festivals or public holidays in Rome, which is one of its practical advantages for independent travellers. Attractions run at lower capacity than during peak event periods, queues are shorter, and accommodation is easier to find without needing to book many months in advance. Local restaurants, markets, and transport operate at a relaxed pace, making this an ideal time for visitors who prefer a more authentic, unhurried experience of everyday city life rather than large crowds drawn in by a single major headline event.

What to Pack for Rome in December

Based on 12°C average highs and 11 rainy days

Warm jacket (down or fleece)
Merino wool base layer (regulates temperature and resists odour)
Sweaters and lined trousers
Scarf and lightweight gloves
Compact folding umbrella
Waterproof outer layer or packable rain jacket
Quick-dry clothing that recovers fast after a shower
Comfortable walking shoes (a second pair lets the first air out overnight)
Universal travel adapter
Small day pack for city exploration
Reusable water bottle

Best Activities in Rome in December

Vigorous walking tour of the UNESCO heritage districtMidday (12-2pm)The 12°C peak temperature provides ideal conditions for brisk sightseeing walks
Cycling the riverside or park circuitAfternoon (1-4pm)Cool dry air makes long cycling sessions comfortable without overheating
Explore hilltop viewpoints and fortressesMorning for clear viewsCold-weather atmospheric clarity gives the longest sightlines of the year
Open-air Christmas or seasonal marketsAfternoon into eveningCool temperatures make festive outdoor markets genuinely atmospheric
Afternoon in a world-class museum or galleryAfternoon (2-5pm)Pairs well with outdoor morning activities and provides a mid-day rest from sightseeing
Coffee-house or traditional cafe culture experienceMid-morning or post-lunchA cultural ritual in this region that rewards slow appreciation regardless of weather
Evening live music, theatre, or opera performanceEvening shows typically at 7-9pmConsistent evening temperatures make getting to and from evening venues comfortable
Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningDecember brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
Warm up with traditional hot dishes: local stew, fondue, or braised specialities at a neighbourhood restaurantLunch (12-2pm) or dinner (7-9pm)Cold-weather cuisine is a genuine cultural experience and the best local restaurants serve their heartiest dishes in cooler months

Why is Rome cool in December?

In December, the Azores High weakens and retreats southward, allowing Atlantic storm tracks to cross the Mediterranean and bring the city its seasonal rainfall. Temperatures average 12°C during the day and drop to 5°C at night as cold continental air occasionally pushes in from the north. This is the rainy season that keeps the region's landscape green through spring. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).

Sunshine Hours

The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.

UV Index

A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate -- wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High -- hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High -- limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme -- seek shade between 10am-4pm.

Rain Days

A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.

Humidity

Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry -- skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable -- ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky -- light, breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy -- heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions: Rome in December

In December, Rome experiences average highs of 12°C (54°F) and lows of 5°C (41°F). Expect around 11 rainy days and 6 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 65%. The 7°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an extra jacket is essential for evenings. UV exposure is moderate at index 1.

Rome typically sees 11 rainy days in December, with total precipitation of around 92mm. Rain is moderate and manageable. Showers tend to pass quickly, and a light rain layer or foldable umbrella is sufficient protection for most days. For context, the driest month in Rome typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than December.

Pack a warm jacket, sweaters, and layering pieces for Rome in December. Temperatures can drop to 5°C at night, so thermal underlayers are advisable for evening outings. Waterproof footwear is important with 11 rainy days expected. A scarf, hat, and gloves handle the windchill on clear cold days, which often feel colder than the thermometer reads.

December is a reasonable time to visit Rome. Expect 11 rainy days, so pack a light rain layer for flexibility. Average temperatures of 12°C make outdoor exploration comfortable during the dry periods. With 6 daily sunshine hours, there are reliable windows of good weather to plan outdoor activities around, even if the month is not the driest on the calendar.

The average high temperature in Rome in December is 12°C (54°F), and the average low is 5°C (41°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 9°C (47°F). The day-to-night range of 7°C is moderate, meaning a single light jacket covers most situations. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.

The best month to visit Rome is generally June. June offers the most sunshine at 13 hours per day and only 5 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 27°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around June gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.

December is shoulder or low season in Rome, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 6 sunshine hours and 11 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.

In December, Rome suits a range of activities thanks to cool conditions around 12°C. Mix of indoor and outdoor activities works well given the moderate chance of rain. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. Cosy cafes and cultural venues make ideal retreats on overcast days.

December ranks 12th sunniest of the year in Rome, with an average 6 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are July, August, and June. August is the hottest month (31°C avg high); January is the coolest (12°C). From here, temperatures fall 0°C into January. Compared to last month (November: 16°C high, 12 rain days), December is cooler and drier. December is one of the least sunny months, but that often means lower prices and fewer fellow tourists.

Year-Round Climate

Month	High	Low	Rain Days	Sun	Details
January	12°C	4°C	9	7h	View
February	12°C	4°C	9	8h	View
March	15°C	6°C	9	9h	View
April	18°C	8°C	11	10h	View
May	22°C	12°C	9	12h	View
June	27°C	17°C	5	13h	View
July	30°C	19°C	4	13h	View
August	31°C	20°C	4	12h	View
September	25°C	16°C	9	10h	View
October	21°C	13°C	11	8h	View
November	16°C	9°C	12	7h	View
December	12°C	5°C	11	6h	View

Other Months in Rome

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Plan Your Trip to Rome

Best Time to Visit Rome Rome vs Milan in December Rome vs Florence in December

Nearby Destinations with Similar Weather

These cities are within 500 km and experience broadly comparable weather conditions during the same calendar month, making them practical standalone alternatives or worthwhile additions to a longer regional itinerary.

Milan🇮🇹 Italy477 km away

7°C0°C low

Florence🇮🇹 Italy231 km away

10°C3°C low

Nice🇫🇷 France472 km away

12°C6°C low

Venice🇮🇹 Italy394 km away

8°C3°C low

Data Sources for Rome

Rome on Wikipedia Open-Meteo Climate API NOAA National Centers UK Met Office WMO GeoNames

Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.