Riga vs Minsk

Riga and Minsk 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.

Riga is on the cooler side at -3°C, requiring warmer clothing. Minsk is cooler at -1°C.

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

Riga reaches an average high of -3°C (27°F) and drops to -15°C (5°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 12°C, meaning significant temperature swings between day and night.

Minsk averages -1°C (30°F) for the high and -5°C (23°F) for the low, with a daily range of 4°C. The 2°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

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

Riga receives approximately 30 mm of rainfall across 3 rain days during December. Rain is occasional, so a light rain jacket should suffice.

Minsk sees 40 mm over 10 rain days. That makes Riga the drier option by 7 rain days and 10 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.