December Weather in Porto, Portugal

Last updated: February 24, 2025

December in Porto, Portugal is characterized by mild temperatures and a fair amount of rainfall. During this month, the maximum temperature reaches a pleasant 18°C (65°F), while the average settles around 11°C (52°F). However, nights can be quite chilly, dropping to a brisk 1°C (35°F). With precipitation totals around 187 mm (7.4 in) over approximately 15 rainy days, visitors should be prepared for the wet conditions. High humidity, averaging 87%, adds to the cool and damp atmosphere, making it a perfect time to explore Porto's cozy cafes and vibrant indoor attractions. 🎨🌧️

December Temperature in Porto

As December arrives in Porto, Portugal, the city experiences a delightful shift into winter, with temperatures ranging from a chilly minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a comfortable maximum of 18°C (65°F). The average temperature hovers around 11°C (52°F), reflecting a mild climate that makes December a pleasant time to explore the city. Compared to the preceding months, there's a noticeable decline in warmth, as autumn gives way to colder conditions. However, temperatures remain relatively mild, preserving Porto’s charm as visitors can enjoy its beautiful sights without the extreme cold. This gradual cooling trend from the warmth of August's highs to December's modest temperatures creates an inviting atmosphere, perfect for savoring the city's rich culture and cozy cafés.

December Weather in Porto: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Porto, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec495254576365707068625552
Data source: Temperature data for Porto generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

December Precipitation in Porto

December in Porto, Portugal, marks a significant increase in precipitation, with 187 mm (7.4 in) of rain falling over 15 days. This makes it the wettest month of the year, following a trend of rising rainfall since October, which recorded 121 mm (4.8 in) and 10 rainy days. As autumn transitions into winter, the city’s skies open up, contributing to a notable spike in both total precipitation and the number of rainy days. With December's showers often bringing a sense of cozy charm to the city, it sets the stage for a festive atmosphere, while also reminding residents and visitors alike of Porto's lush, green landscapes that flourish under such generous rainfall.

December Precipitation Trends in Porto

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Porto, with values for each month alongside December's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how December's conditions compare to those of other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec911381411468150231939121156187
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Porto

As December rolls in, Porto, Portugal experiences a notable increase in humidity, returning to a significant 87%—a level reminiscent of January's dampness. This pattern reveals a clear trend throughout the year, where humidity remains relatively high, with peaks in the winter months. The transition from November's 86% to December's level indicates a persistent embrace of moisture as the year closes. Interestingly, the summer months of July and August provide a brief reprieve with lower humidity levels, dipping to 63% and 64%, respectively. Overall, this cyclical rise and fall in humidity underscores Porto's characteristic maritime climate, rich in influences from the Atlantic Ocean, leading to a distinctly humid experience in the final month of the year.

December Average Humidity in Porto

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Porto, with December's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how December's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec87%81%78%79%78%71%63%64%71%79%86%87%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Porto

As the year draws to a close in December, Porto, Portugal experiences a significant drop in UV radiation, with the UV Index falling to 2, categorized as low. This shift marks a friendly reprieve after several months of intense sun exposure, peaking at an extreme Index of 11 in June. With a burn time of 45 minutes, December allows for leisurely outdoor activities without the same urgency for sun protection as seen in the hotter months. This gentle end to the year's sun exposure hints at a cycle where the city ebbs and flows between higher UV risks in the summer and a more forgiving atmosphere in winter. For residents and visitors alike, December offers a chance to enjoy the outdoors safely while being mindful of sun protection habits throughout the seasons. Explore more about the UV Index year-round here: Porto UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Porto for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Porto in December, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec24689111098642
Data source: Porto December UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

December Sunshine in Porto

In December, Porto experiences a gentle decline in sunshine hours, totaling 182 hours, which marks a contrast to the sun-drenched summer months. As the year winds down, the golden rays of sunlight begin to retreat, following a peak in July with an impressive 427 hours. This downward trend is typical as the city transitions from the vibrant energy of summer towards the cooler embrace of winter. However, December's daylight still offers a charming backdrop for holiday festivities, allowing locals and visitors alike to enjoy the city's rich history and stunning architecture under the soft glow of the winter sun. Despite the shorter days, Porto remains a captivating destination, where the spirit of the season shines brightly.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Porto: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Porto experiences direct sunlight during the month of December, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of December with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec159h210h286h344h405h407h427h396h346h302h206h182h
Data source: Porto December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Porto During December

When considering the likelihood of sunny weather in December in Porto, Portugal, it appears quite modest, with only a 34% chance of sunshine. This low probability follows a notable trend in which the months leading up to December, particularly November with a 62% chance, showcase significantly more favorable conditions for sunny days. As winter approaches, the likelihood of sun diminishes compared to the sunnier summer months, such as August at 64% and July at 57%. Hence, while December may offer some clear skies, travelers looking for vibrant sunshine may want to consider earlier months for their visit.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Porto

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Porto throughout the year, with December highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Porto experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec42%17%56%39%46%55%57%64%42%42%62%34%
Data source: Porto December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Porto in December

In Porto, Portugal, December ushers in a return to shorter days, with only 9 hours of daylight echoing the light levels seen in January and November. This trend marks the winter solstice's approach, where daylight hours reach their annual low. As the year progresses from December onward, daylight gradually increases, starting at 10 hours in February and peaking at a vibrant 15 hours in June. The rhythm of daylight in Porto beautifully reflects the changing seasons, painting a picture of gradual illumination that brightens as spring approaches.

Average Daylight Hours in Porto for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Porto throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 34m10h 37m11h 57m13h 20m14h 29m15h 4m14h 46m13h 44m12h 25m11h 3m9h 51m9h 15m
Data source: Porto daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Porto

As winter settles in, December in Porto, Portugal ushers in a notable uptick in wind speed, averaging 3.8 m/s (8 mph)—a refreshing change from the calmer winds of earlier months. This increase reflects a general trend during the late fall and early winter transition, where wind speeds exhibit a tendency to rise from the lower averages seen in November (2.8 m/s). While the summer months maintain a consistent breeze around 3.1 m/s, it’s clear that as the year winds down, the December winds impart a lively, invigorating atmosphere, perfect for those enjoying the city's coastal charm.

Average December Wind Speed in Porto

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Porto, with values for each month shown alongside December's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how December's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.54.12.72.53.13.13.22.72.82.92.83.8 m/s
Data source: Porto December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Porto Compares to Other Months

The weather in Porto 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 Porto and find detailed weather information for every month.

December weather is characterized by a higher average temperature, ranging from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a maximum of 18°C (65°F), with significant precipitation totaling 187 mm (7.4 in) over about 15 days. The humidity remains consistently high at 87%, contributing to a damp atmosphere. In contrast, January tends to be slightly cooler, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 21°C (69°F) and much less rainfall, with only 91 mm (3.6 in) occurring across 8 days. Nevertheless, the humidity remains steady at 87%. This makes January a drier month compared to December while still retaining a relatively mild climate. For more detailed insights, check out the Porto weather in January.

December and February both showcase mild temperatures with a minimum of around 1°C (35°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F). However, February tends to be slightly warmer, reaching a maximum of 21°C (71°F), compared to December's 18°C (65°F). Precipitation is lower in February, with 138 mm (5.4 in) over 11 days, compared to December's 187 mm (7.4 in) over 15 days, and the humidity also drops from 87% in December to 81% in February. For more detailed information about February weather, you can visit Porto weather in February.

In December, temperatures in Porto range from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a maximum of 18°C (65°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 187 mm (7.4 in) over 15 days, accompanied by high humidity at 87%. In contrast, March sees slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and a maximum that can reach 26°C (79°F), averaging at 12°C (54°F). Additionally, March has a lower total precipitation of 141 mm (5.6 in) over 11 days and reduced humidity at 78%. For more details on the specific weather patterns, consider checking Porto weather in March.

When comparing the weather in December and April, notable differences emerge. December tends to be cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a maximum of 18°C (65°F), while April sees temperatures rise significantly, with a range of 4°C (40°F) to 27°C (81°F). Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, averaging 187 mm (7.4 in) over 15 days, compared to April’s 146 mm (5.7 in) falling over 13 days. Humidity levels also differ, with December at 87% and April at a lower 79%. For more detailed insights on April weather, you can visit Porto weather in April.

In December, the weather is noticeably cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a maximum of 18°C (65°F), averaging around 11°C (52°F). The month is also marked by significant precipitation, totaling 187 mm (7.4 in) spread over approximately 15 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 87%. In contrast, May experiences much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F) and a maximum reaching 30°C (87°F), resulting in an average of 17°C (63°F). The precipitation decreases significantly to 81 mm (3.2 in) over just 9 days, and humidity levels are slightly lower at 78%. For a closer look at the weather in May, check out Porto weather in May.

In December, the weather is markedly cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a chilly 1°C (35°F) to a mild 18°C (65°F). This month also sees significant rainfall, with precipitation of 187 mm (7.4 in) over approximately 15 days, resulting in a high humidity level of 87%. Conversely, June brings a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures around 10°C (50°F) and maximums reaching up to 32°C (90°F). The month is drier, experiencing only 50 mm (2.0 in) of rain over about 8 days, and a lower humidity of 71%. For more details on the weather in June, check Porto weather in June.

December and July present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a maximum of 18°C (65°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F). The month is also quite wet, experiencing 187 mm (7.4 in) of precipitation over about 15 days, coupled with high humidity levels of 87%. In contrast, July boasts much warmer temperatures, with minimums of 11°C (52°F) and maximums reaching up to 34°C (94°F), averaging 21°C (70°F). Precipitation is significantly lower, at just 23 mm (0.9 in) over 4 days, and the humidity is more comfortable at 63%. For a more detailed look at Porto’s summer conditions, you can visit Porto weather in July.

December and August exhibit stark contrasts in weather patterns. December tends to be much cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a maximum of 18°C (65°F), and experiences significant rainfall, totaling 187 mm (7.4 in) over 15 days, coupled with high humidity at 87%. In contrast, August showcases warmer conditions, featuring minimum temperatures of 12°C (54°F) and soaring averages around 21°C (70°F), peaking at a sweltering 36°C (98°F). Precipitation is minimal during this month, totaling just 19 mm (0.7 in) over 4 days, and the humidity drops to a more comfortable 64%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Porto weather in August.

December and September exhibit contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures are cooler, ranging from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a maximum of 18°C (65°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F). The month is also marked by high humidity at 87% and significant precipitation, averaging 187 mm (7.4 in) over approximately 15 days. In stark contrast, September features warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (51°F) and maximum reaching 34°C (94°F), averaging 20°C (68°F). Precipitation in September is considerably lower, at only 39 mm (1.5 in) over about 6 days, and humidity is also more moderate at 71%. For a detailed look at typical weather conditions in September, visit Porto weather in September.

In comparing the weather between December and October, December tends to be cooler and wetter. The minimum temperature in December drops to around 1°C (35°F), while October enjoys milder nights with a minimum of 6°C (44°F). October also boasts a higher average temperature of 17°C (62°F) and can peak at a maximum of 31°C (88°F), making it a warmer month overall. In terms of precipitation, December sees a substantial increase, with 187 mm (7.4 in) over approximately 15 days, compared to 121 mm (4.8 in) over 10 days in October. Humidity levels are also higher in December at 87%, while October has a lower humidity of 79%. For more details, you can check Porto weather in October.

In comparing the weather of December and November, we see a notable drop in temperatures as December features a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F), compared to November's milder minimum of 4°C (40°F) and average of 13°C (55°F). Additionally, December experiences a slightly higher average precipitation of 187 mm (7.4 in) over 15 days, while November brings in 156 mm (6.1 in) over 13 days. Humidity levels remain fairly consistent, with December at 87% and November at 86%. For more detailed insights on November weather, you can visit Porto weather in November.

Compare Porto's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Porto

As December rolls into Porto, the city experiences a notable shift in weather compared to the milder months preceding it. Temperatures drop to a comfortable average, with cooler nights hinting at the winter season's arrival. This month is marked by increased precipitation, as rainy days peak, contributing to a higher humidity level that can make the air feel quite damp. Unlike the sunny charm of summer, December offers a quieter, more introspective atmosphere, encouraging cozy indoor activities and exploration of Porto's rich culture and cuisine. For a deeper dive into the city’s climate throughout the year, visit Porto Climate.