Edinburgh weather in December
“Cool and moody. Best paired with warm rooms and long lunches.”
Roughly 16 rainy days across the month, on average.
December in Edinburgh is cold and damp, with average highs of 7.5°C (46°F) and lows of 3.5°C (38°F). You'll experience around 16 rainy days and roughly 99mm of precipitation throughout the month, so waterproof gear is essential. Sunshine is scarce at just 2.6 hours per day, creating that classic Scottish winter gloom. The city feels crisp and atmospheric rather than bitterly cold, but wind chill often makes it feel colder than the thermometer suggests.
December transforms Edinburgh into a festive destination. The Christmas markets light up Princes Street and the Royal Mile, while Hogmanay (New Year's Eve) celebrations draw crowds worldwide. Winter festivals and holiday events dominate the calendar, creating a magical seasonal atmosphere. However, expect moderate to busy crowds, especially around Christmas and New Year when accommodation fills quickly and attractions get hectic.
If you're visiting Edinburgh in December 2026, pack layers and waterproof outerwear—this isn't the month for summer clothes. The short daylight hours mean planning indoor activities alongside outdoor sightseeing. Prices tend to be higher during the festive season, and booking accommodation well in advance is crucial. The weather is manageable if you're prepared, and the seasonal charm makes it worthwhile for those seeking authentic Scottish winter atmosphere.
The Old Town is a tourist stage set; locals live in Marchmont, Bruntsfield, and Leith. Cranachan and cullen skink are pub food, not fancy. Say 'Embra' not 'Edinburgh'. The Sunday Cramond causeway walk to the island is tide-dependent and people get stranded weekly. Fringe flyer culture: never take one you won't use, comedians remember faces.
What to pack for Edinburgh in December
Edinburgh's December weather demands layering and waterproofing. Temperatures hover just above freezing with frequent rain, so prioritize insulation and moisture protection. Wind is common, so choose fitted layers that won't flap around. Comfortable, waterproof footwear is non-negotiable for exploring wet streets.
- Waterproof parka or rain jacket
- Thermal base layers (merino wool or synthetic)
- Insulated winter boots with grip sole
- Wool beanie and scarf
- Waterproof gloves
What to pack for Edinburgh in December
- →Lightweight fleeceAmazon · shop this
- →Merino travel socksAmazon · shop this
- →Compact travel umbrellaAmazon · shop this
- →Universal travel adapterAmazon · shop this
- →Compression packing cubesAmazon · shop this
- →Anti-theft crossbody bagAmazon · shop this
We may earn a small commission on any purchase — it doesn't change the price you pay.
Where to stay in Edinburgh
We don't review individual hotels — plenty of people do that well. What we do is send you to compare rooms in Edinburgh across trusted platforms.
Compare hotels on Booking.com→Estimated December trip to Edinburgh
Peak season prices — book early or shift by 2–3 weeks to save. Rule-based estimates from a couple based in London — actual prices vary.
We may earn a commission if you book through these links, at no cost to you. Estimates use rule-based averages; check partner sites for live pricing.
Delayed flight to Edinburgh?
Flights to Edinburgh in December can be delayed by storms. Claim up to €600 if yours is 3+ hours late. EU regulations cover flights departing from or arriving in the EU/UK.
Check compensation eligibility →Free check · Only pay if you get paid · Powered by Compensair.
Plan your Edinburgh trip
Handpicked services from partners we trust. One tab for everything you'll need after the flight is booked.
Compare rooms in Edinburgh on Booking.com.
Skip-the-line tickets, day trips, food walks and guided tours.
Compare fares with cashback on every booking.
Instant data on arrival — no roaming charges, no SIM swap.
Flexible monthly coverage for trips of any length.
Compare 900+ rental brands with free cancellation.
Book a driver in advance — fixed price, no queue.
We may earn a commission if you book through these links, at no cost to you.
Things worth doing
Visit Edinburgh Christmas Market, explore festive Royal Mile, attend Hogmanay celebrations, tour Edinburgh Castle in winter light, enjoy indoor museums and galleries, sample whisky at distilleries.
December vs. the rest of the year
How this month compares in Edinburgh. Tap any month to read more.
highlighted months are among the best time to visit.
Best time to visit Edinburgh
While December has its own character in Edinburgh, the data-backed best months to visit Edinburgh are June, July, August, September. These months combine the most favourable temperatures, rainfall, and sunshine across an 11-year climate record (2015–2025).
See the full best-time-to-visit guide for EdinburghOther places with a similar climate right now
Edinburgh in December — FAQ
Q01Is December a good month for Edinburgh?
Is December a good month for Edinburgh?
It is a fair time to visit — expect variable conditions and plan flexibility. In December, Edinburgh averages a high of 8°C (46°F) and a low of 4°C (38°F), with 99mm of rainfall across roughly 16 rainy days. August during the Fringe means 3000+ shows and 19-hour daylight, but book May for Beltane Fire Festival on Calton Hill without the accommodation gouge.
Q02How warm does Edinburgh get in December?
How warm does Edinburgh get in December?
The average high temperature in Edinburgh during December is 8°C (46°F), with an average low of 4°C (38°F). These figures are averaged from 11 complete years of daily records (2015–2025, Open-Meteo Archive). January darkness by 3:45pm drives locals to Cafe Royal's oyster bar; Hogmanay street party sells out August prior at 400 pound tickets.
Q03Does it rain a lot in Edinburgh in December?
Does it rain a lot in Edinburgh in December?
Edinburgh averages approximately 16 rainy days in December, with a total monthly rainfall of about 99mm. This is based on daily precipitation records where days with 1mm or more of rain are counted as rainy days. Haar sea fog rolls off the Forth mid-morning and burns off by noon; actual rain is fine drizzle Scots call 'dreich' and ignore.
Q04What clothes should I bring to Edinburgh in December?
What clothes should I bring to Edinburgh in December?
For Edinburgh in December, pack a warm winter coat, a merino base layer for evenings, a compact umbrella or waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes. These recommendations are based on 11 complete years of weather averages for this specific month. Grippy soled shoes for the Royal Mile's polished setts which turn into an ice rink in any drizzle.
Q05Are there many tourists in Edinburgh in December?
Are there many tourists in Edinburgh in December?
Tourist crowds in Edinburgh during December are typically low — winter is off-season, meaning quiet streets and better hotel deals. Consider this when planning accommodation — prices track crowd levels closely. The Old Town is a tourist stage set; locals live in Marchmont, Bruntsfield, and Leith. Cranachan and cullen skink are pub food, not fancy. Say 'Embra' not 'Edinburgh'. The Sunday Cramond causeway walk to the island is tide-dependent and people get stranded weekly. Fringe flyer culture: never take one you won't use, comedians remember faces.