Tehran Weather in December

🇮🇷 Iran

8°C

High

-2°C

Low

Rain Days

Sunshine

65%

Humidity

Asia › 🇮🇷 Iran › Tehran

Updated: March 2026

Is December a Good Time to Visit Tehran?

4/10

Fair

December is a fair time to visit Tehran (4/10). With 8 daily sunshine hours and only 8 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 12th sunniest of the year in Tehran. December suits travellers visiting for indoor culture, food, and architecture rather than outdoor activities. Pack accordingly for 8 potential rain days. January offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The 8°C highs require proper cold-weather clothing; many visitors underestimate how far the wind chill drops the perceived temperature, particularly near water or at elevated viewpoints. 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:14°C avg high

Tehran's December climate peaks at 8°C each afternoon before cooling to -2°C overnight. 8 daily sunshine hours and just 8 wet days mean the odds of a fine day are solidly in your favour. It is a reasonable time to visit, with a backup plan for the occasional shower.

8°C

Avg High

-2°C

Avg Low

8 days

Rain Days

Sunshine

65%

Humidity

Temperature in Tehran in December

The 10°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 2 is low, meaning sun exposure is minimal concern and sunscreen is largely optional. Winds are calm at an average 9 km/h, so wind-chill is not a factor in planning your clothing. In Fahrenheit: 46°F average high, 28°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).

Temperature in December

Monthly Precipitation (mm)

What to Wear in Tehran in December

Morning-2°CBefore the day warms up

Afternoon8°CPeak daytime temperature

Evening1°CAfter sunset cools down

Packing for Tehran in December means dressing for 8°C days and -2°C evenings. Layering is key: a thermal base, mid-layer fleece, and a windproof outer jacket for 8°C highs that feel colder in the wind. Evening temperatures settle at -2°C, a modest 10°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. Comfortable walking trainers are the versatile choice for both outdoor sightseeing and indoor venues.

💡

Local tip: Temple and religious site visits require covered shoulders and knees in most of Tehran's heritage areas. A lightweight scarf or sarong weighs almost nothing and solves the problem instantly.

Events in Tehran in December

December has no major festivals or public holidays in Tehran, 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 Tehran in December

Based on 8°C average highs and 8 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 Tehran in December

Vigorous walking tour of the UNESCO heritage districtMidday (12-2pm)The 8°C peak temperature provides ideal conditions for brisk sightseeing walks
Cycling the riverside or park circuitAfternoon (1-4pm)Cool dry air makes long cycling sessions comfortable without overheating
Explore hilltop viewpoints and fortressesMorning for clear viewsCold-weather atmospheric clarity gives the longest sightlines of the year
Open-air Christmas or seasonal marketsAfternoon into eveningCool temperatures make festive outdoor markets genuinely atmospheric
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 Tehran cool in December?

December in Tehran reflects a mid-latitude climate pattern, with temperatures averaging 8°C by day and -2°C overnight. The city sits at 36 degrees north latitude, where the balance between solar radiation and heat loss drives conditions that are neither extreme nor static. Cold conditions reflect the dominance of polar or continental air masses, which bring dry, stable weather with low humidity. Day-to-night temperature variation of 10°C is moderate and manageable with a single mid-layer. 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: Tehran in December

In December, Tehran experiences average highs of 8°C (46°F) and lows of -2°C (28°F). Expect around 8 rainy days and 8 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 65%. The 10°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 2.

Tehran typically sees 8 rainy days in December, with total precipitation of around 43mm. Rain is moderate and manageable. Showers tend to pass quickly, and a light rain layer or foldable umbrella is sufficient protection for most days. For context, the driest month in Tehran typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than December.

Pack a heavy winter coat, thermal underlayers, waterproof insulated boots, and accessories including hats, gloves, and a scarf for Tehran in December. Temperatures regularly fall to -2°C and rarely climb above 8°C during the day. Layering is the key strategy: a base layer, mid-layer insulation, and a windproof outer shell provide flexibility as you move between heated indoor spaces and cold outdoor streets.

December is a reasonable time to visit Tehran. Expect 8 rainy days, so pack a light rain layer for flexibility. Average temperatures of 8°C make outdoor exploration comfortable during the dry periods. With 8 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 Tehran in December is 8°C (46°F), and the average low is -2°C (28°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 3°C (37°F). The day-to-night range of 10°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 Tehran is generally June. June offers the most sunshine at 13 hours per day and only 2 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 33°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around June gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.

December is shoulder or low season in Tehran, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 8 sunshine hours and 8 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, Tehran suits a range of activities thanks to cold temperatures of 8°C. Mix of indoor and outdoor activities works well given the moderate chance of rain. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. With 8 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.

December ranks 12th sunniest of the year in Tehran, with an average 8 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are July, August, and September. July is the hottest month (36°C avg high); January is the coolest (6°C). From here, temperatures fall 2°C into January. Compared to last month (November: 14°C high, 7 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	6°C	-5°C	8	9h	View
February	8°C	-3°C	9	9h	View
March	14°C	2°C	9	10h	View
April	20°C	8°C	9	11h	View
May	27°C	14°C	5	12h	View
June	33°C	20°C	2	13h	View
July	36°C	24°C	1	13h	View
August	35°C	23°C	1	13h	View
September	30°C	19°C	1	11h	View
October	23°C	12°C	4	10h	View
November	14°C	4°C	7	9h	View
December	8°C	-2°C	8	8h	View

Other Months in Tehran

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Plan Your Trip to Tehran

Best Time to Visit Tehran

Data Sources for Tehran

Tehran on Wikipedia Open-Meteo Climate API NOAA National Centers UK Met Office WMO GeoNames

Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.