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Weather Comparison

Munich vs Zurich

Side-by-side weather comparison for December

Munich: 4°CZurich: 5°C242 km apart

December Weather: Munich vs Zurich

MetricMunichZurichBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer4°C (39°F)5°C (41°F)Zurich
Average LowHigher is milder-2°C (28°F)0°C (32°F)Zurich
Rain DaysFewer is drier13 days14 daysMunich
PrecipitationLess is drier67 mm92 mmMunich
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier4h/day5h/dayZurich
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer11Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better16 km/h12 km/hZurich

Which City is Better in December?

Munich and Zurich are closely matched in December. Neither city has a clear advantage across all metrics. Your decision should come down to personal preference, cultural interests, and travel logistics rather than weather alone.

Munich is on the cooler side at 4°C, requiring warmer clothing. Zurich is cooler at 5°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Munich is the stronger choice in December. Zurich receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in December

Munich reaches an average high of 4°C (39°F) and drops to -2°C (28°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 6°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Zurich averages 5°C (41°F) for the high and 0°C (32°F) for the low, with a daily range of 5°C. The two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.

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

Rainfall Comparison in December

Munich receives approximately 67 mm of rainfall across 13 rain days during December. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Zurich sees 92 mm over 14 rain days. That makes Munich the drier option by 1 rain day and 25 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Munich vs Zurich

Packing for Munich in December

Highs of 4°C, lows of -2°C, 13 rain days

  • heavy winter coat
  • thermal base layers
  • warm gloves and hat
  • insulated boots
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • a warm scarf

Packing for Zurich in December

Highs of 5°C, lows of 0°C, 14 rain days

  • heavy winter coat
  • thermal base layers
  • warm gloves and hat
  • insulated boots
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • a warm scarf

Pack for both: heavy winter coat, thermal base layers, warm gloves and hat, insulated boots, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, a warm scarf. These items are useful in either destination during December.

Year-Round Comparison: Munich vs Zurich

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.December is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthMunichZurich
HighRainHighRain
Jan3°C12d5°C13d
Feb5°C10d6°C11d
Mar9°C13d10°C13d
Apr14°C12d14°C13d
May18°C15d18°C15d
Jun21°C15d22°C16d
Jul23°C15d24°C15d
Aug23°C13d23°C14d
Sep18°C12d19°C12d
Oct14°C11d15°C12d
Nov8°C11d9°C12d
Dec4°C13d5°C14d
4°

Munich Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

5°

Zurich Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Munich warmer than Zurich in December?
No. In December, Zurich is warmer with an average high of 5°C (41°F) compared to Munich at 4°C (39°F), a difference of 1°C.
Which city gets more rain in December, Munich or Zurich?
Zurich gets more rain in December with 14 rain days and 92 mm of precipitation. Munich is the drier option with 13 rain days.
Is it better to visit Munich or Zurich in December?
It depends on your preferences. Munich averages 4°C and 4 hours of daily sunshine with 13 rain days. Zurich averages 5°C with 5 sunshine hours and 14 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Zurich. For drier weather, Munich is the better pick.
How far apart are Munich and Zurich?
Munich and Zurich are approximately 242 km (150 miles) apart. Munich is located in Germany (Europe) while Zurich is in Switzerland (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Munich and Zurich?
For Munich, June tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 21°C. For Zurich, July is typically ideal with 12 sunshine hours and 24°C highs.

Compare Munich and Zurich in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Munich coordinates: 48.14°N, 11.58°E | Zurich coordinates: 47.38°N, 8.54°E