What's the Weather Like in Stockholm in December
It is time for Christmas in Stockholm, Sweden and the weather is impeccable. Temperatures may not be the highest, but they aren't exceptionally low either, making for a superb wintry atmosphere at this time of celebrations.
Temperature
Temperatures average around -1°C this month and snow adorns the spectacular cityscape of Stockholm. During the day, temperatures reach up to 1°C on average, whereas at night, they drop down to an average low of -3°C. Visitors will definitely need thick coats, hats and gloves, but the weather also absolutely allows them to wander the magical streets of this historic city in Scandinavia. This is the third coldest month of the year, only January and February being colder, although only a tiny bit.
Daylight Hours
December, arguably the most enchanting time of year to spend a week or two in this northerly city, has the shortest days of the entire year. 21st December is the shortest of all days, having no more than 6.05 hours of daylight. The other days aren't too much longer. 1st December has 6.38 daylight hours; 31st December has 6.11 daylight hours. These extremely short daysunrise is between 8.18am and 8.47am, and sunset is no later than 2.57pmre the main reason for the low number of daily sunshine hours.
Sunshine
A December day has merely 2 hours of sunshine on average. However, the blanket of snow that covers the city provides some brightness, as do the thousands of flickering Christmas lights that adorn the buildings.
Rain
Precipitation in December is actually not remarkably high. The city receives 46mm of precipitation in total, which is probably around the annual monthly average. There are 18 days with precipitation, though, which is the highest number of precipitation days of any month (January has the same number). The likelihood that tourists will see some precipitation in December remains virtually constant, ranging around 67% throughout the month. The majority of precipitation occurs, unsurprisingly, as snowfall.
Snow
Moderate snow is the dominant precipitation type, happening on 36% of those 18 days with precipitation. Light snow is observed on 20% of those days. Additionally, moderate rain and light rain occur as well, respectively on 21% and 14% of those days. Snowfall is guaranteed in December, the chance that it happens increasing from 34% in the beginning of the month to 43% toward the end.
Hotels for Stockholm in December
NoFo Loft
Located in central Stockholm, the NoFo Loft offers charming lodging overlooking Saint Catherine's Church and the rest of the city centre. The rooms are bright, modern and spacious. The hotel building is historic as it was built around the 1780s; the original wine cellar is still in use today. Wireless internet is available throughout the hotel and other great amenities are an amazing breakfast buffet, parking and a wine bar.
Malardrottningen Hotel and Restaurant
Consider booking a room at Mälardrottningen Hotel and Restaurant. This unique accommodation is actually an old ship that has been turned into a hotel and restaurant. It is located near the Old Town and offers its guests the chance to stay in luxurious cabins on the water overlooking Lake Mälaren and Riddarholmen. This is a truly remarkable hotel, ideal to make your December vacation even more magical.
Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel
Another suggestion is the Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel. Boasting 414 modern and spacious rooms, this renowned hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers beautiful views of the water and City Hall. There is an exercise lounge, a business centre, a bar and grill, and free Wi-Fi.
Restaurants and Bars for Stockholm in December
Petite France
If you are looking for a place to have breakfast, brunch or lunch, consider going to Petite France. This amazing bakery serves a plethora of French specialties, from various pastries to brioches, croque monsieurs and croissants. Its dishes are delicious, all with an undeniably French touch.
The Verandah
The Verandah is a part of Grand Hôtel and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner every single day of the year. Offering guests great food and views over the water and picturesque Gamla Stan, this restaurant is one of only a few dining venues that serve an authentic Swedish smörgåsbord for most of the year.
Meatballs for the People
A fun place to go for dinner is Meatballs for the People. As the name implies, this restaurant focuses on the classic Swedish meatball as a main ingredient for its dishes. Guests can sit down at one of the tables or take their meatballs to go. There is also a bar and a shop that sells no fewer than fourteen types of meatballs, including meatballs made with salmon, beef and elk.
Things to Do in Stockholm in December
The Nordiska Museum
The Nordiska Museum narrates Swedish daily life throughout the centuries. Exhibitions cover customs, traditions, garments, as well as dwellings. The jewellery collection at Nordiska is especially fascinating, a collection that displays more than one thousand pieces, some of which date back to the 16th century. The museum also has a comprehensive exhibition about Sami life in Sweden. Located at Djurgården, the museum is open every day. This makes for a great place to visit if the December weather doesn't allow for outdoorsy activities.
Junibacken
Also located in Djurgården, Junibacken is the ultimate destination for families with children. It is the finest house of fantasy play. With the Story Train, children journey through a story land and meet many celebrated characters like Alfie Atkins. At the Storybook Square, kids are transported into a world of fantasy where they play and have fun with everything around them. Villa Villekulla is the home of the strongest girl in the world. Here children play as wildly as they wish. Additionally, at the Villa there are various exciting rides and fun activities in which to participate.
