December in Sweden is characterized by cold temperatures, very short daylight hours, and limited sunshine, making it one of the darkest and chilliest months of the year. While conditions can vary across the country, especially between the south and the far north, weather patterns in Stockholm provide a good indication for much of central and southern Sweden.
Stockholm's December Climate
In Stockholm, December is consistently cold and experiences significantly reduced daylight. It's a month where the winter truly sets in, bringing crisp, often snowy, conditions.
Temperatures
As one of the coldest months, December sees average daytime high temperatures hovering around 1°C (34°F). Nights are distinctly colder, with average low temperatures dropping to a chilly -3°C (27°F). This makes warm clothing essential for anyone spending time outdoors.
Daylight and Sunshine
Daylight hours are exceptionally brief in December. Stockholm experiences an average of just six hours of daylight each day. Out of these limited daylight hours, the amount of actual sunshine is even scarcer, averaging only two hours daily. For much of the month, the sun sets remarkably early, often around 3:00 PM, plunging the city into darkness relatively quickly.
Summary of Stockholm's December Weather
To give a clearer picture, here’s a summary of typical conditions in Stockholm during December:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Average Daytime High | 1°C (34°F) |
| Average Nighttime Low | -3°C (27°F) |
| Average Daylight Hours | 6 hours |
| Average Sunshine Hours | 2 hours per day |
| Typical Sunset Time | Around 3:00 PM |
| Overall Impression | Cold, dark, and often snowy |
Broader Swedish Context
While Stockholm's weather is indicative of much of Sweden's populated areas, it's important to remember that Sweden is a long country. Regions further north, such as Lapland, will experience even more extreme conditions, including:
- Colder Temperatures: Average temperatures can be significantly lower than in Stockholm, often well below freezing.
- Less Daylight/Polar Night: The northernmost parts of Sweden experience the "polar night," where the sun doesn't rise above the horizon at all for several weeks.
- More Snow: Snow cover is typically deeper and lasts longer in the northern and inland areas.
Practical Insights for December
If you're in Sweden during December, be prepared for a truly wintry experience.
- Dress Warmly: Layers are crucial, including thermal wear, a waterproof and insulated outer layer, hats, gloves, and warm, waterproof footwear.
- Embrace the Darkness: Many Swedish traditions and activities revolve around the winter darkness, such as fika (coffee break) indoors, saunas, and festive lighting.
- Winter Activities: Despite the cold, December offers opportunities for winter sports like ice skating, skiing, and enjoying the festive atmosphere of Christmas markets.
For general information on visiting Sweden, you can explore resources like Visit Sweden.
