Istanbul vs Cancun

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.

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

Istanbul reaches an average high of 15°C (59°F) and drops to 6°C (43°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 9°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Cancun averages 26°C (79°F) for the high and 23°C (73°F) for the low, with a daily range of 3°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.

Istanbul receives approximately 80 mm of rainfall across 7 rain days during December. Rain is occasional, so a light rain jacket should suffice.

Cancun sees 53 mm over 11 rain days. That makes Istanbul the drier option by 4 rain days and 27 mm of total precipitation.

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