Weather in Nice 🇫🇷
Monthly weather averages & travel planning
December
Avg Temp
15°C
Rain Days
7 days
Sun Hours
1 hrs
Humidity
65%
Europe › 🇫🇷 France › Nice
Updated: March 2026
Is December a Good Time to Visit Nice?
4/10
Fair
December is a fair time to visit Nice (4/10). Average highs of 15°C and 1 sunshine hours daily make conditions workable, though not exceptional. December suits travellers visiting for indoor culture, food, and architecture rather than outdoor activities. Pack accordingly for 7 potential rain days. January offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: Nice's popular sites are busiest between 10am and 3pm regardless of season. Arriving at opening time or after 4pm makes a significant difference to the experience. Planning tips: most accommodation categories have availability, and last-minute deals are common. The quieter streets and shorter queues can make this a genuinely enjoyable time to visit for the right type of traveller. Budget-conscious visitors will find the best value of the year in this period.
vs November:16°C avg high
Nice's December weather is shaped by atmospheric forces that make the data more than just numbers. The 15°C average high reflects a transitional pressure pattern where mid-latitude westerlies alternately bring mild maritime air and cooler polar intrusions. As a result, 1 daily sunshine hours are recorded on average, and rainfall of 80mm is distributed across approximately 7 days because precipitation events tend to be brief and infrequent.
15°C
59°F
Avg High
6°C
43°F
Avg Low
7 days
80 mm total
Rain Days
1h
per day avg
Sunshine
65%
Moderate
Humidity
Temperature in Nice in December
The 9°C day-night temperature range is typical for continental climates: a light jacket in the morning that you shed by midday and need again after sunset. Humidity averages 65%, which is comfortable for most visitors. On warmer days, lighter fabrics help with the mild stickiness in the afternoon. The UV index of 1 is low, meaning sun exposure is minimal concern and sunscreen is largely optional. Wind averages 15 km/h, light enough to be refreshing on warm days but noticeable in open coastal areas or elevated viewpoints. In Fahrenheit: 59°F average high, 43°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).
Temperature Trends
High
Low
Rainfall (mm)
0-20 mm21-50 mm51-100 mm100+ mm
What to Wear in Nice in December
Morning6°CBefore the day warms up
Afternoon15°CPeak daytime temperature
Evening9°CAfter sunset cools down
Packing for Nice in December means dressing for 15°C days and 6°C evenings. A mid-weight jacket over a sweater handles 15°C daytime temperatures; the combination stays comfortable all day without overheating. Evening temperatures settle at 6°C, a modest 9°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. European cobblestones reward low-profile walking shoes over flip-flops or heels, with cushioned trainers or leather walking shoes being the practical choice.
Local tip: Many of Nice's museums and galleries maintain cool interior temperatures regardless of outdoor conditions. A compact layer in your daypack lets you move between warm streets and chilled exhibition halls without discomfort.
Events in Nice in December
December has no major festivals or public holidays in Nice, which is one of its practical advantages for independent travellers. Attractions run at lower capacity than during peak event periods, queues are shorter, and accommodation is easier to find without needing to book many months in advance. Local restaurants, markets, and transport operate at a relaxed pace, making this an ideal time for visitors who prefer a more authentic, unhurried experience of everyday city life rather than large crowds drawn in by a single major headline event.
What to Pack for Nice in December
Based on 15°C average highs and 7 rainy days
- Warm jacket (down or fleece)
- Merino wool base layer (regulates temperature and resists odour)
- Sweaters and lined trousers
- Scarf and lightweight gloves
- Comfortable walking shoes (a second pair lets the first air out overnight)
- Universal travel adapter
- Small day pack for city exploration
- Reusable water bottle
Best Activities in Nice in December
- Explore the old town's cobblestone backstreetsMorning (9-11am)At 15°C, conditions are pleasant for unhurried exploration on foot
- Visit hilltop viewpoints for panoramic city viewsLate afternoon (4-6pm)Low sun angle creates dramatic light for photography while temperatures remain comfortable
- Bicycle rental for a half-day city circuitMid-morning startMild 15°C temperatures are ideal for extended cycling without excessive effort
- Boat tour of the river, bay, or canal networkLate morning departureComfortable weather makes open-deck boats viable without wind-chill concerns
- Afternoon in a world-class museum or galleryAfternoon (2-5pm)Pairs well with outdoor morning activities and provides a mid-day rest from sightseeing
- Coffee-house or traditional cafe culture experienceMid-morning or post-lunchA cultural ritual in this region that rewards slow appreciation regardless of weather
- Evening live music, theatre, or opera performanceEvening shows typically at 7-9pmConsistent evening temperatures make getting to and from evening venues comfortable
- Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningDecember brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
- Warm up with traditional hot dishes: local stew, fondue, or braised specialities at a neighbourhood restaurantLunch (12-2pm) or dinner (7-9pm)Cold-weather cuisine is a genuine cultural experience and the best local restaurants serve their heartiest dishes in cooler months
Why is Nice mild in December?
In December, the Azores High weakens and retreats southward, allowing Atlantic storm tracks to cross the Mediterranean and bring the city its seasonal rainfall. Temperatures average 15°C during the day and drop to 6°C at night as cold continental air occasionally pushes in from the north. This is the rainy season that keeps the region's landscape green through spring. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).
Sunshine Hours
The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.
UV Index
A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate, wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High, hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High, limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme, seek shade between 10am-4pm.
Rain Days
A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.
Humidity
Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry, skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable, ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky, light breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy, heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nice in December
In December, Nice experiences average highs of 15°C (59°F) and lows of 6°C (43°F). Expect around 7 rainy days and 1 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 65%. The 9°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an extra jacket is essential for evenings. UV exposure is moderate at index 1.
Nice typically sees 7 rainy days in December, with total precipitation of around 80mm. This makes December one of the drier months of the year, and a reliable window for outdoor sightseeing and day trips. Rain showers tend to be brief when they do occur. For context, the driest month in Nice typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than December.
Pack a warm jacket, sweaters, and layering pieces for Nice in December. Temperatures can drop to 6°C at night, so thermal underlayers are advisable for evening outings. Waterproof footwear is a sensible precaution even though rain days are limited. A scarf, hat, and gloves handle the windchill on clear cold days, which often feel colder than the thermometer reads.
December is a reasonable time to visit Nice. Expect 7 rainy days, so pack a light rain layer for flexibility. Average temperatures of 15°C make outdoor exploration comfortable during the dry periods. With 1 daily sunshine hours, there are reliable windows of good weather to plan outdoor activities around, even if the month is not the driest on the calendar.
The average high temperature in Nice in December is 15°C (59°F), and the average low is 6°C (43°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 11°C (51°F). The day-to-night range of 9°C is moderate, meaning a single light jacket covers most situations. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.
The best month to visit Nice is generally May. May offers the most sunshine at 7 hours per day and only 1 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 28°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around May gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.
December is shoulder or low season in Nice, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 1 sunshine hours and 7 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.
In December, Nice suits a range of activities thanks to cool conditions around 15°C. With few rainy days, outdoor activities are highly recommended. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. Cosy cafes and cultural venues make ideal retreats on overcast days.
December ranks 12th sunniest of the year in Nice, with an average 1 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are May, June, and July. June is the hottest month (29°C avg high); December is the coolest (15°C). From here, temperatures rise 1°C into January. Compared to last month (November: 16°C high, 6 rain days), December is cooler and wetter. December is one of the least sunny months, but that often means lower prices and fewer fellow tourists.
Year-Round Climate
| Month | High | Low | Rain Days | Sun | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 16°C | 7°C | 6 | 1h | View |
| February | 19°C | 10°C | 5 | 3h | View |
| March | 22°C | 13°C | 4 | 4h | View |
| April | 26°C | 17°C | 2 | 6h | View |
| May | 28°C | 19°C | 1 | 7h | View |
| June | 29°C | 20°C | 1 | 7h | View |
| July | 28°C | 19°C | 1 | 7h | View |
| August | 26°C | 17°C | 2 | 6h | View |
| September | 22°C | 13°C | 4 | 4h | View |
| October | 19°C | 10°C | 5 | 3h | View |
| November | 16°C | 7°C | 6 | 1h | View |
| December | 15°C | 6°C | 7 | 1h | View |
January
6 rain days, 1h sun
16°7°
February
5 rain days, 3h sun
19°10°
March
4 rain days, 4h sun
22°13°
April
2 rain days, 6h sun
26°17°
May
1 rain days, 7h sun
28°19°
June
1 rain days, 7h sun
29°20°
July
1 rain days, 7h sun
28°19°
August
2 rain days, 6h sun
26°17°
September
4 rain days, 4h sun
22°13°
October
5 rain days, 3h sun
19°10°
November
6 rain days, 1h sun
16°7°
December
7 rain days, 1h sun
15°6°
Other Months in Nice
Plan Your Trip to Nice
Nearby Destinations
Cities within 500 km with comparable weather conditions
Data Sources for Nice
Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.