Skip to content

Weather Comparison

Riga vs Minsk

Side-by-side weather comparison for December

Riga: 1°CMinsk: -1°C402 km apart

December Weather: Riga vs Minsk

MetricRigaMinskBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer1°C (34°F)-1°C (30°F)Riga
Average LowHigher is milder-3°C (27°F)-5°C (23°F)Riga
Rain DaysFewer is drier12 days10 daysMinsk
PrecipitationLess is drier49 mm40 mmMinsk
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier2h/day2h/dayTie
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer11Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better25 km/h23 km/hMinsk

Which City is Better in December?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Minsk edges ahead as the better destination in December. Minsk offers 2 hours of daily sunshine with only 10 rain days, while Riga sees 2 sunshine hours and 12 rain days.

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

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

Temperature Comparison in December

Riga reaches an average high of 1°C (34°F) and drops to -3°C (27°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 4°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to 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.

Rainfall Comparison in December

Riga receives approximately 49 mm of rainfall across 12 rain days during December. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Minsk sees 40 mm over 10 rain days. That makes Minsk the drier option by 2 rain days and 9 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Riga vs Minsk

Packing for Riga in December

Highs of 1°C, lows of -3°C, 12 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 Minsk in December

Highs of -1°C, lows of -5°C, 10 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: Riga vs Minsk

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.

MonthRigaMinsk
HighRainHighRain
Jan-1°C12d-3°C10d
Feb0°C10d-2°C10d
Mar4°C10d3°C10d
Apr11°C10d12°C10d
May16°C10d17°C13d
Jun20°C11d21°C13d
Jul22°C12d23°C13d
Aug22°C13d22°C11d
Sep17°C11d16°C10d
Oct10°C14d10°C11d
Nov4°C13d3°C10d
Dec1°C12d-1°C10d
1°

Riga Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

-1°

Minsk Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Riga warmer than Minsk in December?
Yes. In December, Riga is warmer with an average high of 1°C (34°F) compared to Minsk at -1°C (30°F), a difference of 2°C.
Which city gets more rain in December, Riga or Minsk?
Riga gets more rain in December with 12 rain days and 49 mm of precipitation. Minsk is the drier option with 10 rain days.
Is it better to visit Riga or Minsk in December?
It depends on your preferences. Riga averages 1°C and 2 hours of daily sunshine with 12 rain days. Minsk averages -1°C with 2 sunshine hours and 10 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Riga. For fewer rain days, Minsk is the better pick.
How far apart are Riga and Minsk?
Riga and Minsk are approximately 402 km (250 miles) apart. Riga is located in Latvia (Europe) while Minsk is in Belarus (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Riga and Minsk?
For Riga, June tends to be the best month with 13 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 20°C. For Minsk, June is typically ideal with 12 sunshine hours and 21°C highs.

Compare Riga and Minsk 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.

Riga coordinates: 56.95°N, 24.11°E | Minsk coordinates: 53.90°N, 27.56°E