Lisbon vs Madrid in December — Which to Pick?
The numbers, side by side
Every figure below is an average across 11 complete years (2015–2025) of daily Open-Meteo records. Not a forecast — a historical baseline you can plan against.
Lisbon vs Madrid in December
| Metric | Lisbon | Madrid | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average high | 16 °C (60°F)Winner | 12 °C (53°F) | Lisbon is 4.3 °C warmer. |
| Average low | 10 °C (51°F)Winner | 3 °C (38°F) | Nights differ by ~7°C. |
| Rainfall | 76 mm | 42 mmWinner | Madrid is 34 mm drier. |
| Rainy days | 8 | 7 | Effectively even in rainy days. |
| Sunshine | 7.4 h/dayWinner | 6.4 h/day | Lisbon is 1.0 hours sunnier per day. |
Our honest take
In December, Lisbon runs about 4°C warmer on average — a meaningful gap when you're deciding what to pack.
Madrid sees roughly 34mm less rainfall this month, so your afternoons are more likely to survive intact.
Lisbon logs more sunshine hours per day — a small advantage for anyone shooting photos or chasing a tan.
Neither is objectively better: pick Lisbon for what Lisbon is famous for; pick Madrid for what Madrid does uniquely. The persona cards below break the choice down by traveller type.
Traveller verdict for December
Data-driven picks based on 11-year climate averages (2015–2025). Neither destination is objectively “better” — it depends on what you're after.
Lisbon takes the beach-day advantage — warmer sea air, drier skies, and more useful sun.
Madrid leans into the after-dark scene — warm evenings and the higher-energy crowd.
Lisbon suits families better this month — gentler temperatures and fewer washouts.
Lisbon gets the photographer's nod — clearer skies and softer light per day.
Prices track closely — book early either way.
Lisbon has the edge for wandering food streets — walkable weather and a livelier scene.
Compare hotels in both
Booking.com deep links with December check-in dates pre-filled.
Lisbon vs Madrid in December — FAQ
Q01Is Lisbon warmer than Madrid in December?
Is Lisbon warmer than Madrid in December?
Yes — Lisbon runs about 4°C warmer than Madrid in December. Lisbon averages 16°C highs; Madrid averages 12°C. Based on 11-year climate averages (2015–2025).
Q02Which is drier — Lisbon or Madrid in December?
Which is drier — Lisbon or Madrid in December?
Madrid is drier in December. It averages 42mm of rainfall vs 76mm at Lisbon. That is a meaningful difference for outdoor plans.
Q03Which is better for outdoor activities in December?
Which is better for outdoor activities in December?
Lisbon generally wins for outdoors in December — more sunshine hours per day and typically fewer washouts. Still, Madrid offers plenty of viable outdoor time if the itinerary calls for it.
Q04Which is cheaper to visit in December — Lisbon or Madrid?
Which is cheaper to visit in December — Lisbon or Madrid?
Both destinations command similar peak pricing when the weather is at its best; visiting either in shoulder or off-season lowers hotel rates by 30–50%.
Q05Which is better for a beach trip in December?
Which is better for a beach trip in December?
Lisbon is the stronger pick for beach days in December — warmer daytime highs, drier weather, and more useful sun per day.