Istanbul vs Bucharest

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Bucharest edges ahead as the better destination in December. Bucharest offers 5 hours of daily sunshine with only 7 rain days, while Istanbul sees 5 sunshine hours and 13 rain days.

Istanbul is on the cooler side at 10°C, requiring warmer clothing. Bucharest is cooler at 4°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Bucharest is the stronger choice in December.

Istanbul reaches an average high of 10°C (50°F) and drops to 6°C (43°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 4°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Bucharest averages 4°C (39°F) for the high and -3°C (27°F) for the low, with a daily range of 7°C. There is a notable 6°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.

Istanbul receives approximately 99 mm of rainfall across 13 rain days during December. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Bucharest sees 46 mm over 7 rain days. That makes Bucharest the drier option by 6 rain days and 53 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.