Last updated: August 27, 2025
Experience the enchanting winter charm of Zakopane, Poland, in December, where temperatures can range from a brisk -20°C (-4°F) at night to a mild 9°C (48°F) during the day. With an average temperature hovering around -3°C (27°F), the air carries a fresh chill, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Visitors can expect around 76 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation over 16 days, creating a picturesque snowy landscape that is both serene and captivating. The high humidity of 91% adds a unique ambiance to the crisp, cool air, making December a magical month to explore this beautiful mountain resort.
In Zakopane, Poland, December ushers in the cold grip of winter, characterized by its chilly temperatures that typically range from a minimum of -20°C (-4°F) to a maximum of 9°C (48°F). With an average temperature hovering around -3°C (27°F), the month sets a stark contrast to the milder conditions of the preceding months. As temperatures dip further compared to November's averages, visitors can expect a true winter wonderland, making it an ideal time for skiing and enjoying the festive atmosphere. This trend toward the colder range continues into January, solidifying December as a magical month for experiencing the serene beauty of snow-covered landscapes and frosty adventures in the Tatra mountains.
In December, Zakopane experiences a noteworthy shift in its weather patterns as winter settles in. The month brings a precipitation total of 76 mm (3.0 in) over approximately 16 days, signaling a transition to snowy conditions. While this amount is lower than the peak summer months, it reflects a significant increase from November’s 55 mm, showcasing how winter storms start to accumulate. The frequency of precipitation days rises during this time, highlighting the region's increasingly moody weather as the festive season approaches. Overall, December's precipitation lays the groundwork for the picturesque winter landscape that Zakopane is famous for, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the magic of the snowy season.
In Zakopane, Poland, December ushers in the peak of the winter humidity, with levels rising to 91%. This marks a notable increase from the moderate 70% experienced during the milder months of May and June. As the year progresses, humidity tends to fluctuate, peaking during the winter months of November and January, both at a high of 90%. This trend suggests that the cold, crisp air in December not only brings the beauty of snow-covered landscapes but also higher moisture levels, creating a distinct contrast with the drier summer months when humidity dips to around 64%. As residents and visitors brace for the chill, the damp air serves as a reminder of the transformative grip of winter in this picturesque mountain town.
As December rolls in, Zakopane experiences notably low UV Index levels, measuring just 1, which falls into the low exposure category with a burn time of 45 minutes. This signals a stark contrast to the peak summer months, where values soared to 9 in both June and July, highlighting the region's seasonal shifts. After a gradual increase through spring and summer, the UV Index dips again in November and December, offering a respite from sun exposure concerns. The trend reveals that while the mountainous landscape of Zakopane draws visitors year-round, December's milder UV conditions make it a perfect time for winter activities without the worry of sunburn. For more detailed insights on sun safety throughout the year, check out Zakopane UV Index.
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As December unfolds in Zakopane, Poland, the days grow shorter, offering just 153 hours of sunshine—a stark contrast to the peak summer months. This downward trend from the 419 hours basked in July underscores the transition into winter, where snowy landscapes take center stage. While the sunshine dims, December's charm lies in its crisp air and enchanting winter sports. Interestingly, the month holds a modest glow compared to November's 206 hours, hinting at the subtle yet notable decrease in daylight as the year draws to a close. Each hour of sunlight becomes a cherished opportunity to enjoy the serene beauty of Zakopane, with its majestic mountains and cozy, festive atmosphere.
In Zakopane, Poland, December ushers in the winter with a notably low chance of sunny weather, clocking in at just 13%. This marks a stark contrast to the sunnier months of June and October, where the likelihood of sunshine peaks at 45% and 42%, respectively. The trend reveals that as the year progresses into winter, particularly in December, the chances of clear skies diminish significantly. With only a brief glimmer of sunlight expected during this month, visitors should prepare for a predominantly overcast atmosphere, embracing the enchanting winter landscape that Zakopane offers despite the limited sun.
In December, Zakopane, Poland experiences a return to shorter days, with only 8 hours of daylight. This marks a notable dip after the extended sunlight of summer months, which peak in June with 16 hours of daylight. As the year winds down, daylight gradually decreases from the vibrant 15 hours in May to the dimming 8 hours in December. The transition from November's 9 hours signals a deepening winter, mirroring the drop from October's 10 hours. As the days become shorter, Zakopane's enchanting winter landscape comes alive, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the charm of the season despite the dwindling daylight.
In December, the wind in Zakopane, Poland, begins to take on a characteristic briskness, with an average speed of 2.2 m/s (5 mph). As the year draws to a close, it marks the transition from the slightly calmer summer months, where the wind hovered around 1.7 m/s (4 mph) in July and August, to a more invigorating winter atmosphere. This slight increase to 2.2 m/s reflects a broader trend of gradual escalation in wind speeds towards the year's end, with values consistently around 2.1 m/s from October through November. The winds are not only a reminder of the impending winter chill but also enhance the picturesque beauty of Zakopane’s snow-covered landscapes, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the season’s charm.
Weather in Zakopane varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Zakopane, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
December and January weather exhibit notable differences despite both being winter months. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -20°C (-4°F) to a maximum of 9°C (48°F), with an average of -3°C (27°F). The month also sees a higher precipitation level of 76 mm (3.0 in) over 16 days, accompanied by high humidity at 91%. In contrast, January experiences colder temperatures, with minimums dropping to -27°C (-16°F) and a slightly lower maximum of 6°C (43°F), leading to an average temperature of -5°C (23°F). Precipitation also decreases to 42 mm (1.6 in) over just 10 days, with humidity levels remaining fairly high at 90%. For a more detailed insight into January's climate conditions, you can visit Zakopane weather in January.
December and February in Zakopane share similar temperature ranges, with both months experiencing minimums around -20°C (-4°F) and average highs slightly differing, February reaching up to 10°C (50°F) compared to December's 9°C (48°F). While December sees higher precipitation at 76 mm (3.0 in) over 16 days, February has slightly less at 65 mm (2.6 in) over 15 days. Humidity levels are also comparable, with December being at 91% and February at 87%. Overall, February tends to be slightly warmer and drier than December. For more detailed insights, you can check out Zakopane weather in February.
December weather is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum of -20°C (-4°F) and an average of -3°C (27°F), while reaching a maximum of 9°C (48°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 76 mm (3.0 in) over 16 days, along with high humidity at 91%. In contrast, March experiences slightly milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -24°C (-11°F) to a maximum of 17°C (63°F), and an average of 0°C (32°F). Precipitation is reduced to 56 mm (2.2 in) across 13 days, and humidity drops to 83%. For more detailed information, check Zakopane weather in March.
When comparing the weather in December and April, a noticeable shift in temperature and conditions can be observed. December typically experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -20°C (-4°F) and an average of -3°C (27°F), whereas April shows a milder climate with a minimum of -13°C (9°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F). Precipitation levels are somewhat similar, with December receiving 76 mm (3.0 in) over 16 days and April slightly higher at 82 mm (3.2 in) over 14 days. Additionally, humidity is markedly higher in December at 91%, compared to 76% in April, reflecting the transition from winter’s chill to early spring’s warming trend. For more detailed insights, visit Zakopane weather in April.
December and May present strikingly different weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -20°C (-4°F), with an average of -3°C (27°F) and a maximum reaching 9°C (48°F). The month is characterized by high humidity levels at 91% and a total precipitation of 76 mm (3.0 in) over 16 days. In contrast, May offers a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (24°F) to a comfortable average of 10°C (50°F), peaking at 24°C (76°F). Although it sees more precipitation at 131 mm (5.1 in) over 20 days, the humidity drops to 70%. For a detailed look at the weather during this transition period, you can check Zakopane weather in May.
December and June present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet as low as -20°C (-4°F), averaging around -3°C (27°F), with highs reaching a mild 9°C (48°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 76 mm (3.0 in) over 16 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 91%. In contrast, June boasts a much warmer climate with a minimum temperature of 2°C (35°F), an average of 15°C (60°F), and maximum temperatures soaring to 29°C (85°F). This month experiences even more precipitation, accumulating 126 mm (4.9 in) over 19 days, but with a lower humidity of 71%. For more details on June weather, you can visit Zakopane weather in June.
The weather in December is characterized by much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -20°C (-4°F) and an average of -3°C (27°F), while July enjoys a milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F). December experiences significant chill, coupled with high humidity at 91%, compared to July's more comfortable 67% humidity level. Precipitation is also notable in both months, with December recording 76 mm (3.0 in) over 16 days, while July sees 126 mm (4.9 in) spread over 19 days. For more detailed insights on the warm summer months, check out Zakopane weather in July.
December and August present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -20°C (-4°F), with an average temperature hovering around -3°C (27°F), providing a cold and wintry landscape. The humidity is high at 91%, and the month experiences about 76 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation over 16 days. Conversely, August offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a comfortable maximum of 29°C (84°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F). This summer month brings more precipitation, totaling 156 mm (6.2 in) over 18 days, yet the humidity is lower at 64%. For a closer look at August weather specifics, visit Zakopane weather in August.
In December, the weather in Zakopane is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -20°C (-4°F) and an average of -3°C (27°F), while the maximum temperature can reach 9°C (48°F). The humidity is quite high at 91%, contributing to a cold and damp atmosphere, with precipitation occurring on 16 days and totaling 76 mm (3.0 in). In contrast, September offers a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a comfortable average of 11°C (53°F), peaking at 25°C (77°F). The humidity is lower at 67%, and while September sees slightly more precipitation at 107 mm (4.2 in) over 12 days, the overall feel of the month is warm and inviting compared to the chilly December. For more details, check out Zakopane weather in September.
December and October showcase a stark contrast in weather patterns. December experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -20°C (-4°F) and an average of -3°C (27°F), while October boasts milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a pleasant average of 7°C (44°F). In terms of precipitation, December sees 76 mm (3.0 in) over 16 days, compared to October's 89 mm (3.5 in) over just 12 days. Additionally, December's higher humidity level of 91% surpasses October's 83%, contributing to a more frigid atmosphere in the final month of the year. For a closer look at October's weather specifics, check out Zakopane weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December and November, December presents a much colder climate, with average temperatures around -3°C (27°F) compared to November's milder average of 2°C (36°F). The minimum temperature in December dips to -20°C (-4°F), whereas November's minimum is a less severe -16°C (4°F). Precipitation increases in December, totaling 76 mm (3.0 in) over 16 days, compared to November's 55 mm (2.2 in) across 11 days. Humidity levels remain similar, with December at 91% and November at 90%. For more details on November's weather, you can check out Zakopane weather in November.
December in Zakopane brings a distinct chill compared to other months, as winter settles in with a dramatic drop in temperatures. With an average temperature hovering around -3°C (27°F) and occasional dips reaching as low as -20°C (-4°F), the cold is palpable. This month is also marked by considerable humidity and precipitation, making it one of the wetter months of the year, with snow frequently gracing the landscape. As the mountains embrace their winter coat, the weather sets the stage for winter sports and festive cheer. For a deeper understanding of what the climate holds throughout the year, visit Zakopane Climate.