Cancun vs Istanbul

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Istanbul edges ahead as the better destination in December. Istanbul offers 1 hours of daily sunshine with only 7 rain days, while Cancun sees 10 sunshine hours and 11 rain days.

Cancun sits in the comfortable travel range at 26°C. Istanbul is also comfortable at 15°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Istanbul is the stronger choice in December. Cancun receives 9 more hours of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Cancun reaches an average high of 26°C (79°F) and drops to 23°C (73°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 3°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Istanbul averages 15°C (59°F) for the high and 6°C (43°F) for the low, with a daily range of 9°C. There is a notable 11°C gap between the two cities, so expect a very different feel.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in December.

Cancun receives approximately 53 mm of rainfall across 11 rain days during December. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Istanbul sees 80 mm over 7 rain days. That makes Istanbul the drier option by 4 rain days and 27 mm of total precipitation.

Humidity also differs: Cancun averages 78% while Istanbul sits at 65%. Cancun will feel muggier, especially at higher temperatures.