Tenerife Weather in December
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Updated: March 2026
Is December a Good Time to Visit Tenerife?
December is a fair time to visit Tenerife (5/10). Average highs of 25°C and 3 sunshine hours daily make conditions workable, though not exceptional. Culture-focused travellers and those who prefer lighter crowds will find December a practical choice, with prices running lower than peak May without sacrificing all the good weather. January offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: Tenerife'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: accommodation is generally available without long lead times, and flight prices are typically lower than peak season. Flexible travellers will find the best deals by booking 2-4 weeks ahead. Mid-week arrivals consistently unlock lower hotel rates than weekend check-ins.
Tenerife in December rewards travelers with average highs of 25°C and overnight lows around 13°C. Expect around 1 rainy days, making it one of the drier periods in the city. With 3 daily sunshine hours on average, conditions are comfortable for sightseeing at a relaxed pace.
25°C
Avg High
13°C
Avg Low
1 days
Rain Days
3h
Sunshine
35%
Humidity
Temperature in Tenerife in December
The 12°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 35%, which is comfortable for most visitors. The air feels fresh and dry enough to make extended outdoor activity pleasant. The UV index of 2 is low, meaning sun exposure is minimal concern and sunscreen is largely optional. Wind averages 15 km/h, light enough to be refreshing on warm days but noticeable in open coastal areas or elevated viewpoints. In Fahrenheit: 77°F average high, 55°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).
Temperature in December
Monthly Precipitation (mm)
What to Wear in Tenerife in December
Packing for Tenerife in December means dressing for 25°C days and 13°C evenings. A light cotton tee with a casual overshirt works well at 25°C, the overshirt doubles as a layer for air-conditioned venues. Evenings drop 12°C to around 13°C, a notable shift that catches underprepared visitors off guard. Pack a dedicated evening layer. European cobblestones reward low-profile walking shoes over flip-flops or heels, with cushioned trainers or leather walking shoes being the practical choice.
Local tip: Many of Tenerife's museums and galleries maintain cool interior temperatures regardless of outdoor conditions. A compact layer in your daypack lets you move between warm streets and chilled exhibition halls without discomfort.
Events in Tenerife in December
December has no major festivals or public holidays in Tenerife, 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 Tenerife in December
Based on 25°C average highs and 1 rainy days
- Light layers for morning and evening
- Breathable T-shirts and comfortable trousers
- UV-protective sunglasses
- SPF 30+ sunscreen
- 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 Tenerife in December
- Explore outdoor markets and street food stallsMid-morning (10am-12pm)At 25°C, the temperature is ideal for extended walking without overheating
- Guided walking tour of the historic centreMorning or late afternoonComfortable temperatures allow several hours on foot without fatigue
- Visit rooftop viewpoints and observation decksGolden hour (1 hour before sunset)Warm clear evenings provide exceptional visibility for panoramic photography
- Day trip to the surrounding countryside or coastFull day (depart by 8am)December is reliably dry enough for rural day trips without weather risk
- 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
- Try the seasonal farmer's market for local produce and street foodSaturday morning markets typically 8am-1pmDecember seasonal produce is at peak availability, offering dishes not found at other times of year
Why is Tenerife warm in December?
December in Tenerife reflects a mid-latitude climate pattern, with temperatures averaging 25°C by day and 13°C overnight. The city sits at 28 degrees north latitude, where the balance between solar radiation and heat loss drives conditions that are neither extreme nor static. The warm temperatures reflect a stable high-pressure pattern typical of the season, which suppresses cloud formation and concentrates solar energy at the surface. Day-to-night temperature variation of 12°C is moderate and manageable with a single mid-layer. 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: Tenerife in December
December ranks 12th sunniest of the year in Tenerife, with an average 3 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are January, February, and October. June is the hottest month (41°C avg high); December is the coolest (25°C). From here, temperatures rise 1°C into January. Compared to last month (November: 26°C high, 1 rain days), December is cooler and equally dry. December is one of the least sunny months, but that often means lower prices and fewer fellow tourists.
Year-Round Climate
Plan Your Trip to Tenerife
Data Sources for Tenerife
Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.