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Weather Comparison

Zurich vs Munich

Side-by-side weather comparison for December

Zurich: 5°CMunich: 4°C242 km apart

December Weather: Zurich vs Munich

MetricZurichMunichBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer5°C (41°F)4°C (39°F)Zurich
Average LowHigher is milder0°C (32°F)-2°C (28°F)Zurich
Rain DaysFewer is drier14 days13 daysMunich
PrecipitationLess is drier92 mm67 mmMunich
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier5h/day4h/dayZurich
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer11Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better12 km/h16 km/hZurich

Which City is Better in December?

Zurich and Munich 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.

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

Zurich reaches an average high of 5°C (41°F) and drops to 0°C (32°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 5°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Munich averages 4°C (39°F) for the high and -2°C (28°F) for the low, with a daily range of 6°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

Zurich receives approximately 92 mm of rainfall across 14 rain days during December. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Munich sees 67 mm over 13 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: Zurich vs Munich

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

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

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: Zurich vs Munich

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.

MonthZurichMunich
HighRainHighRain
Jan5°C13d3°C12d
Feb6°C11d5°C10d
Mar10°C13d9°C13d
Apr14°C13d14°C12d
May18°C15d18°C15d
Jun22°C16d21°C15d
Jul24°C15d23°C15d
Aug23°C14d23°C13d
Sep19°C12d18°C12d
Oct15°C12d14°C11d
Nov9°C12d8°C11d
Dec5°C14d4°C13d
5°

Zurich Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

4°

Munich Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Zurich warmer than Munich in December?
Yes. 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, Zurich or Munich?
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 Zurich or Munich in December?
It depends on your preferences. Zurich averages 5°C and 5 hours of daily sunshine with 14 rain days. Munich averages 4°C with 4 sunshine hours and 13 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Zurich. For fewer rain days, Munich is the better pick.
How far apart are Zurich and Munich?
Zurich and Munich are approximately 242 km (150 miles) apart. Zurich is located in Switzerland (Europe) while Munich is in Germany (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Zurich and Munich?
For Zurich, July tends to be the best month with 12 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 24°C. For Munich, June is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 21°C highs.

Compare Zurich and Munich 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.

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