Last updated: February 26, 2025
December in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany offers a captivating winter experience, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -19°C (-1°F) at night to a maximum of 10°C (51°F) during the day. The average temperature hovers around -2°C (29°F), making warm layers essential for explorers. With 123 mm (4.9 in) of precipitation spread over 18 days, the area is frequently blanketed in a picturesque layer of snow, contributing to a humidity level of 90%. This combination of cold and moisture creates a stunning winter landscape, perfect for skiing enthusiasts and winter wanderers alike, while the charming Bavarian architecture adds to the seasonal allure.
In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, December marks the onset of deep winter, characterized by a dramatic dip in temperatures. The month ushers in chilly minimums around -19°C (-1°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F), providing a stark contrast to the milder conditions of fall. While daytime highs reach up to 10°C (51°F), the overall climate feels crisp and invigorating, making it ideal for winter sports enthusiasts. As the year draws to a close, December's temperatures reflect a steady decline from the previous months, setting the stage for a true alpine winter experience. The scenery transforms under a blanket of snow, inviting visitors to embrace the magical atmosphere of this picturesque Bavarian town.
December in Garmisch-Partenkirchen sees precipitation levels matching October with a noteworthy 123 mm (4.9 in) recorded. This month experiences an increase in rainy days, totaling 18, compared to November's 11 days, indicating a shift toward a wetter winter landscape. As the year closes, rainfall patterns reveal a consistent trend of elevated moisture during the colder months, peaking in late spring and summer, but maintaining significant precipitation as temperatures drop. This seasonal shift is crucial for the area's winter activities, as the falling snow and rain contribute to the iconic Bavarian alpine scenery.
In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, December ushers in a sense of crispness, with humidity levels rising to 90%, consistent with the theme established in the latter months of the year. This trend reflects a gradual increase in moisture from the earlier winter months, where November also held a high humidity of 89%. As the year progresses from the drier spring months—where humidity dipped as low as 78% in May—the latter part of the year showcases a return to more humid conditions. This shift towards higher humidity in December enhances the enchanting winter landscape, making it a perfect backdrop for holiday festivities. As the seasonal cycle continues, residents and visitors will experience a brisk air that is both refreshing and indicative of the beautiful snow-capped scenery typical of this alpine region.
In December, Garmisch-Partenkirchen experiences a low UV Index of 2, indicating minimal sun exposure risk. With an extended burn time of 45 minutes, residents and visitors can enjoy the winter scenery without much concern for sunburn. This trend of lower UV levels typically observed in the colder months starkly contrasts with the very high indices seen during the summer, which peak in May through August. As the year unfolds, the UV Index fluctuates significantly, reaching its highest in the summer months, while the winter months, including December, provide a much more forgiving environment for outdoor activities. For detailed information, you can visit the full guide on the Garmisch-Partenkirchen UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, December offers 180 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a winter wonderland. As the year draws to a close, sunlight starts to wane compared to the vibrant summer months, where July peaks at an impressive 398 hours. The transition from the brighter early months reveals a striking pattern: while January begins with a modest 160 hours, the sunshine gradually increases through the spring and into early summer, culminating in 346 hours in May. However, as autumn sets in and progresses toward winter, the sunlight dips, reaching a low in November with 219 hours before the cycle starts anew in December. This rhythmic dance of daylight emphasizes Garmisch-Partenkirchen's unique charm, making its winter scenery even more enchanting against the backdrop of its snow-draped peaks.
In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, December brings a 33% chance of sunny weather, which is relatively moderate compared to the sunniest months of the year. Interestingly, as the year progresses, the likelihood of sunshine shows fluctuations that peak in late summer and early fall, with September boasting the highest probability at 45%. While December's sun chances are lower than those of February and March, which hover around 42%, they remain fairly stable compared to the preceding months. This suggests a seasonal trend where winter can often be overcast, yet there is still a glimmer of hope for sunny intervals that can brighten the holiday season amidst the enchanting snow-covered landscapes.
As winter settles in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, December brings a nostalgic return to shorter days, with daylight lasting just 8 hours—a stark contrast to the vibrant 15 hours enjoyed during the peak of summer. This cyclical rhythm highlights the dramatic seasonal shift, where early in the year daylight gradually lengthens, peaking in the lush, bright months of May through July. After the sun begins its retreat in August, the days shorten progressively, leading to November's dwindling 9 hours before reaching December’s minimal glow. This pattern underscores a quintessential aspect of life in this picturesque Bavarian town, where each season invites its own charm and beauty, blending the allure of winter with a sense of anticipation for the return of longer, sunlit days ahead.
As December arrives in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the winds begin to pick up slightly, averaging 1.7 m/s (4 mph), which is a gentle breeze compared to the more static air of the summer months. Notably, this increase indicates a subtle transition as winter settles in, contrasting with the calmest periods observed from July to September. While wind speeds are generally lower throughout the year, December's conditions invite a sense of crispness that complements the holiday atmosphere, setting the stage for winter sports enthusiasts excited to embrace the seasonal chill. Overall, the wind in December suggests a blend of tranquility and anticipation, marking the close of the year with a refreshing gust.
The weather in Garmisch-Partenkirchen changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of December's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Garmisch-Partenkirchen and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January weather show notable differences, particularly in temperatures and precipitation patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -19°C to a maximum of 10°C, with an average of -2°C. The month sees about 123 mm of precipitation spread over 18 days, contributing to a humidity level of 90%. By contrast, January experiences even colder conditions, with minimum temperatures dropping to -30°C and an average of -4°C, although the maximum remains slightly higher at 11°C. Precipitation in January is slightly lower at 105 mm, occurring over 12 days, with humidity peaking at 93%. For more details on January’s weather in this region, check out Garmisch-Partenkirchen weather in January.
December and February weather exhibit some notable differences, particularly in temperature and precipitation. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -19°C (-1°F) to a maximum of 10°C (51°F), averaging around -2°C (29°F). The month typically experiences around 123 mm (4.9 in) of precipitation over 18 days, with humidity levels high at 90%. In contrast, February tends to be chillier, with minimum temperatures dropping to -25°C (-13°F) and a maximum of 14°C (58°F), leading to an average of -1°C (30°F). This month sees less precipitation at 84 mm (3.3 in) over 12 days, and humidity remains slightly lower at 89%. For more detailed insights about February weather specifically, visit Garmisch-Partenkirchen weather in February.
In December, temperatures in Garmisch-Partenkirchen are generally milder, with an average of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 10°C (51°F), while March tends to be chillier, featuring a minimum of -22°C (-7°F) and an average of 2°C (35°F) with highs reaching 17°C (64°F). December experiences more total precipitation at 123 mm (4.9 in) over 18 days, compared to March's 98 mm (3.9 in) spread over 16 days. Additionally, December has a higher humidity level at 90%, while March's humidity sits at 86%. For more details on March weather, you can check Garmisch-Partenkirchen weather in March.
December and April present contrasting weather experiences. December is characterized by a chilling average temperature of -2°C (29°F), with nighttime lows plunging to -19°C (-1°F) and occasional highs reaching only 10°C (51°F). Precipitation is quite common during this month, with 123 mm (4.9 in) falling over 18 days, coupled with high humidity at 90%, creating a cold and damp atmosphere. In comparison, April sees a significant warming trend, with average temperatures rising to 6°C (43°F) and daytime highs reaching a pleasant 22°C (71°F). Although it still experiences some precipitation, totaling 93 mm (3.7 in) across 14 days, the humidity decreases to 83%, marking a shift towards a fresher, more spring-like feel. For more details, check out Garmisch-Partenkirchen weather in April.
December and May in Garmisch-Partenkirchen present stark contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures can dip as low as -19°C (-1°F), with an average of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 10°C (51°F), along with significant precipitation of 123 mm (4.9 in) spread over 18 days and high humidity at 90%. In contrast, May experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of -11°C (13°F), an average of 9°C (49°F), and a warm maximum reaching 27°C (81°F). Precipitation also rises in May to 199 mm (7.8 in) over 22 days, but the humidity is lower at 78%. For more details, you can check Garmisch-Partenkirchen weather in May.
In December, Garmisch-Partenkirchen experiences a chilly climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -19°C (-1°F) to a maximum of 10°C (51°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 90% and considerable precipitation, totaling 123 mm (4.9 in) over 18 days. In stark contrast, June brings a much milder atmosphere, where temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a warm maximum of 30°C (87°F), with an average of 15°C (59°F). Although June sees slightly more precipitation at 191 mm (7.5 in) over 19 days, humidity is lower at 79%. For more details on the June weather, you can visit Garmisch-Partenkirchen weather in June.
December and July present strikingly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -19°C (-1°F), with an average of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 10°C (51°F). The month sees significant precipitation—123 mm (4.9 in) over 18 days—along with high humidity levels at 90%. In contrast, July offers a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures of 6°C (42°F), an average of 15°C (60°F), and maximum highs reaching 31°C (87°F). Rainfall is also more pronounced in July, totaling 199 mm (7.8 in) over 19 days, but the humidity is slightly lower at 82%. This seasonal shift underscores the dramatic changes in climate between winter and summer. For a detailed look at the July conditions, visit Garmisch-Partenkirchen weather in July.
December and August present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures plunge to a minimum of -19°C (−1°F), with an average of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 10°C (51°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. The month is quite humid, with an average humidity of 90% and precipitation occurring on 18 days, totaling 123 mm (4.9 in). In contrast, August brings warmth, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a pleasant average of 15°C (60°F), peaking at 29°C (85°F). August also experiences a higher total precipitation of 212 mm (8.3 in) over 20 days, accompanied by a slightly lower humidity of 80%. For more insights into the weather conditions of August, you can refer to the Garmisch-Partenkirchen weather in August.
In comparing the weather of December and September, we see significant contrasts. December is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum of -19°C (-1°F) and an average around -2°C (29°F), while September experiences milder conditions, featuring a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and an average of 11°C (53°F). The maximum temperature in December reaches 10°C (51°F), compared to a much warmer 24°C (75°F) in September. Additionally, while both months see considerable precipitation, December has 123 mm (4.9 in) over 18 days, whereas September sees slightly more at 158 mm (6.2 in) across 16 days. Humidity is also higher in December at 90%, compared to 83% in September. For a closer look at September's weather in detail, visit Garmisch-Partenkirchen weather in September.
In December, temperatures drop significantly, with a minimum of -19°C (-1°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F), while October enjoys milder conditions, with a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and an average of 7°C (46°F). While both months receive similar amounts of precipitation—123 mm (4.9 in)—December experiences more rainy days, totaling 18 compared to October's 13 days. The humidity remains consistent at 90% in both months, but the colder December air can feel much more biting than October's relatively pleasant temperatures. For a detailed look at October weather conditions, check out Garmisch-Partenkirchen weather in October.
December weather in Garmisch-Partenkirchen is significantly colder than November, with average temperatures dropping from 2°C (37°F) in November to around -2°C (29°F). December experiences more extreme low temperatures, hitting a minimum of -19°C (-1°F), compared to November's mildest temperature of -12°C (11°F). Additionally, precipitation increases in December to 123 mm (4.9 in) over 18 days, while November sees 85 mm (3.3 in) across just 11 days. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, with December at 90% and November at 89%. For a more detailed look at November weather, visit Garmisch-Partenkirchen weather in November.
In December, Garmisch-Partenkirchen transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a stark contrast to the milder months preceding it. The chill is evident, with temperatures often dipping below freezing, creating an enchanting atmosphere marked by heavy snowfall and elevated humidity levels. With an average of 18 precipitation days, December is notably cloudier and wetter compared to other months, making it the prime time for winter sports enthusiasts and holiday travelers. For more insights into how December fits into the broader climate profile, visit Garmisch-Partenkirchen Climate.