Last updated: February 24, 2025
Discover the December weather in Viana do Castelo, Portugal, where mild temperatures complement the region's enchanting charm. With a maximum temperature reaching 19°C (66°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F), visitors can enjoy a comfortable climate. However, it's essential to prepare for cooler nights with a minimum temperature dipping to 2°C (36°F). December is also characterized by significant rainfall, accumulating 246 mm (9.7 in) over 17 days, paired with a high humidity level of 87%. This combination creates a lush environment, making Viana do Castelo a captivating destination for those who embrace the beauty of winter.
In Viana do Castelo, Portugal, December temperatures begin to drop as winter sets in, with minimums averaging around 2°C (36°F) and maximums peaking at 19°C (66°F). This marks a significant cooling trend compared to the milder autumn months, yet the average temperature remains a moderate 11°C (52°F). December's weather embodies the transition to winter, providing a crisp atmosphere perfect for enjoying local festivities. As you stroll through this picturesque coastal town, expect a refreshing chill in the air that complements the charming winter scenery.
In December, Viana do Castelo experiences its highest precipitation levels of the year, with an impressive 246 mm (9.7 in) of rainfall spread over 17 days. This significant increase marks a continuation of the rainy trend observed in the late autumn months, particularly November, which also recorded notable rainfall at 216 mm (8.5 in) over 15 days. As the year comes to a close, these wet conditions highlight the region's shift from the drier summer months—where July and August see mere 26 mm (1.0 in) and 30 mm (1.2 in) respectively—towards the more robust and unpredictable winter weather. This gradual buildup of precipitation not only revitalizes the local landscape but also sets the stage for a wet start to the new year, emphasizing the region's characteristic maritime climate.
In Viana do Castelo, Portugal, December sees a notable return to high humidity levels, peaking at 87%, reminiscent of the preceding January's conditions. As the year unfolds, a clear trend emerges: humidity begins its descent from the damp chill of winter, reaching its lowest in July and August at 63% and 64%, respectively. However, as autumn approaches, humidity levels steadily rise again, culminating in a moist end to the year. This cyclical pattern highlights Viana do Castelo's unique climate, marked by significant seasonal shifts that cradles the region in a persistent, comforting embrace of humidity, especially as the holidays approach.
In Viana do Castelo, Portugal, the UV Index experiences a notable fluctuation throughout the year. Starting with a low exposure category in January and December, where the UV Index is just 2, residents can spend up to 45 minutes outdoors without risk of burning. As spring approaches, the UV Index climbs steadily, peaking in the summer months of June through August with a very high rating of 9 or 10, demanding limited sun exposure of merely 15 minutes. Fall sees a gradual decline, descending to a moderate level in November before returning to a low status by December. For more detailed information on UV levels and safety tips, check out Viana do Castelo UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
December in Viana do Castelo, Portugal, offers a tranquil retreat with its 181 hours of sunshine, a serene conclusion to the year. While this marks a dip from the vibrant heights of summer, where July shines with an impressive 427 hours, it reflects a natural ebb and flow in the region’s climate. The gradual shift from the lush sunshine of May (405 hours) and June (406 hours) to the cooler, shorter days of winter highlights how the seasons dance through the year. December's sunshine, though less abundant, provides a crisp, invigorating backdrop for enjoying the charming coastal town, making it a delightful time for reflective walks along the shore and cozy gatherings with loved ones.
In Viana do Castelo, December sees a notable dip in sunny days, with a 33% chance of sunshine. This contrasts with the sunnier months preceding it; November enjoys a robust 66% chance, making the shift to December feel particularly significant. Following a gradual rise in sunshine probability from January's 48% through the summer months, December marks a return to lower averages typical of late fall. As winter sets in, this trend reflects a seasonal narrative where brightness yields to shorter, cloudier days, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying the festive spirit of the season.
In Viana do Castelo, Portugal, daylight duration experiences a rhythmic ebb and flow throughout the year. Beginning with 9 hours of daylight in January, the days gradually lengthen until reaching a peak of 15 hours in June. This vibrant shift transitions into the warmer months of July and August, where daylight persists with 14 and 13 hours respectively. As autumn sets in, the hours dwindle back down, mirroring the January and November figures with another return to 9 hours in December. This cyclical pattern not only marks the changing seasons but also sets the stage for the region's dynamic natural beauty, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace both the long summer days and the cozy winter nights.
As winter approaches, December in Viana do Castelo, Portugal, brings a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 4.1 m/s (9 mph), a refreshing contrast to the milder winds of the preceding months. The trend reveals a notable uptick in wind speed, particularly when compared to the lower averages of both April and August. Following a gradual rise from the calmness of late spring, the wind begins to pick up again in the cooler months, creating a dynamic atmosphere perfect for winter strolls along the coast. This seasonal shift not only invigorates the air but also enhances the charm of Viana do Castelo's winter landscape, inviting locals and visitors alike to embrace the unique essence of this coastal gem.
The weather in Viana do Castelo 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 Viana do Castelo and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, the weather tends to be milder with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F), and an average temperature of 11°C (52°F). The month is characterized by significant rainfall, totaling 246 mm (9.7 in) over 17 days, while humidity remains high at 87%. In contrast, January experiences slightly colder mornings with temperatures dropping to a minimum of -1°C (31°F), although the maximum can reach up to 20°C (69°F) with an average of 9°C (49°F). Precipitation is also lower in January, at 136 mm (5.4 in) over just 10 days, keeping the humidity level consistent at 87%. For more detailed information, you can check Viana do Castelo weather in January.
December and February weather exhibit some similarities, but also notable differences. Both months have an average temperature of around 11°C (52°F), but February tends to be slightly milder, reaching a maximum of 21°C (70°F) compared to December’s 19°C (66°F). Precipitation is more common in December, with 246 mm (9.7 in) falling over 17 days, while February sees less rain, amounting to 185 mm (7.3 in) over 13 days. Additionally, February has a lower humidity level at 81% compared to December's 87%, making it feel a bit less damp overall. For specific details, you can check out the Viana do Castelo weather in February.
In December, the weather in Viana do Castelo is characterized by cooler temperatures, with an average of 11°C (52°F) and maximums reaching up to 19°C (66°F). It also experiences significantly more precipitation, totaling 246 mm (9.7 in) over 17 days, contributing to a high humidity of 87%. In contrast, March brings slightly warmer conditions, with an average temperature of 12°C (53°F) and maximums peaking at 23°C (73°F). Precipitation decreases to 186 mm (7.3 in) over just 13 days, leading to a lower humidity level of 78%. For more detailed insights on the March weather, visit Viana do Castelo weather in March.
December and April weather exhibit distinct contrasts in temperature and precipitation. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a milder maximum of 19°C (66°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F). The month sees significant rainfall, totaling 246 mm (9.7 in) over 17 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 87%. In contrast, April offers more pleasant conditions with temperatures starting at a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and reaching up to 26°C (79°F), leading to an average of 13°C (56°F). Precipitation decreases to 169 mm (6.7 in) over 13 days, while humidity drops to a more comfortable 79%. For more details on April weather, you can check Viana do Castelo weather in April.
December weather is characterized by cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F), while May sees a warmer climate with a minimum of 6°C (43°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F). The max temperatures in December reach up to 19°C (66°F), but in May, they can soar as high as 29°C (84°F). Additionally, December is significantly wetter, with 246 mm (9.7 in) of precipitation over 17 days, compared to May's 106 mm (4.2 in) over just 9 days. The humidity remains high in both months, with December at 87% and May at 78%. For more details on May weather, you can check out Viana do Castelo weather in May.
In December, the weather typically features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F), reaching a maximum of 19°C (66°F). This month also sees considerable precipitation, averaging 246 mm (9.7 in) over approximately 17 wet days, coupled with high humidity at 87%. In contrast, June offers a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to an average of 17°C (63°F) and peaking at 28°C (84°F). There’s significantly less rainfall in June, averaging just 59 mm (2.3 in) across 7 days, and lower humidity at 71%. For more details on June weather, you can check Viana do Castelo weather in June.
December and July present strikingly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a mild average of 11°C (52°F), peaking at 19°C (66°F). This month is characterized by significant precipitation, with an average of 246 mm (9.7 in) over 17 rainy days, contributing to a high humidity level of 87%. In contrast, July boasts a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures at 11°C (53°F) and an average of 20°C (67°F), reaching a maximum of 30°C (87°F). Rainfall is minimal in July, totaling just 26 mm (1.0 in) across only 5 days, resulting in a more comfortable humidity level of 63%. For a closer look at the July weather, you can check Viana do Castelo weather in July.
The weather in December is markedly cooler and wetter compared to August. With December temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F), it features an average of 11°C (52°F) and experiences significant precipitation, totaling 246 mm (9.7 in) over 17 days, along with high humidity at 87%. In contrast, August enjoys much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a sweltering maximum of 32°C (90°F), averaging 20°C (67°F). Additionally, August sees significantly less rain, with only 30 mm (1.2 in) falling over just 3 days, and a more comfortable humidity level of 64%. For more details, you can check out Viana do Castelo weather in August.
In December, the weather is cooler and wetter, with average temperatures ranging from 2°C (36°F) to 19°C (66°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 246 mm (9.7 in) over 17 days, and a high humidity of 87%. In contrast, September experiences milder and sunnier conditions, with temperatures fluctuating between 10°C (50°F) and 30°C (86°F). Precipitation is minimal, at just 49 mm (1.9 in) over only 6 days, and the humidity is comparatively lower at 71%. For more details on the September climate, you can visit Viana do Castelo weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December and October, notable differences emerge in temperature and precipitation. December tends to be cooler, with minimum temperatures around 2°C (36°F) and maximums reaching 19°C (66°F), while October offers milder conditions with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F). Precipitation also increases significantly in December, with 246 mm (9.7 in) falling over 17 days, compared to 152 mm (6.0 in) over 11 days in October. Additionally, December experiences higher humidity at 87%, whereas October's humidity averages around 79%. For a more detailed look at October weather, check out Viana do Castelo weather in October.
In comparing the weather between November and December, we see that both months experience mild temperatures, but December tends to be slightly cooler. November has an average temperature of 12°C (54°F), with a maximum of 21°C (70°F), while December drops to an average of 11°C (52°F) and a maximum of 19°C (66°F). Precipitation is notably higher in December, with 246 mm (9.7 in) occurring over 17 days compared to November’s 216 mm (8.5 in) over 15 days. Humidity levels remain fairly similar, with December at 87% and November at 86%. For a more detailed look at the weather in November, you can refer to this link: Viana do Castelo weather in November.
As December rolls into Viana do Castelo, the weather transforms into a cooler embrace compared to the milder months prior. With an average temperature hovering around 11°C (52°F), the city experiences a significant dip, contrasting with the warmer fall days. The month is marked by an increase in rainfall, with around 246 mm (9.7 in) falling over 17 days, giving the landscape a lush, green vibrancy. Humidity levels soar to 87%, adding a chill to the air that makes layering essential. While the occasional sunny day may break through the clouds, visitors should be prepared for the wintery mix that December brings. For a deeper dive into the climatic patterns of this enchanting region, check out Viana do Castelo Climate.