Murmansk in December
In December, Murmansk averages -5°C (23°F) during the day and -10°C (14°F) at night, with frequent rain — about 18 days of the month see precipitation (36 mm total).
Off-peakConditions are deeply cold — proper winter gear is essential. Expect daily rain or showers, often in heavy bursts.
December is one of the wetter and less comfortable months in Murmansk. If your dates are flexible, consider a different time of year.
How December compares to the rest of the year in Murmansk
December is one of the coolest months in Murmansk (10th of 12) and one of the driest months (12th of 12). Daytime temperature runs 9°C below the annual average (4°C). December runs 3°C cooler than November (-2°C) and cools 3°C in January (-8°C).
December daylight in Murmansk
At 69° N latitude, Murmansk experiences polar night — no direct sunlight in mid-December.
📅 When to book — Murmansk in December
Travel writers usually only tell you when to go. Here's when to book flights and lodging for the best mix of price and availability, based on December's tier (Off-peak) and Murmansk's popularity.
Crowds & pricing — December in Murmansk
This is off-peak for Murmansk — the lowest prices of the year and the fewest crowds, but with real trade-offs: some restaurants, hotels, and beach businesses may close for the season; weather conditions can make outdoor activities unpredictable; and a handful of seasonal sights run reduced hours or close entirely. Great if you prefer a quiet local rhythm and don't mind the climate giving you reasons to choose indoor activities.
Why this tier: challenging tourism weather Christmas / New Year travel surge
Sun & mosquito risk — December in Murmansk
UV is a clear-sky sea-level estimate — clouds, altitude, and reflective surfaces (snow, water) shift it ±30%. Mosquito risk is climate-derived only; for current disease advisories (dengue, malaria, zika) check the CDC or WHO travel pages before your trip.
🥶 Bitter cold — Murmansk in December
Gear: Snow rare but air is freezing. Insulated coat, hat, and gloves still required — wind chill is the real enemy.
Murmansk in other months
| Month | Avg high | Avg low | Rainfall | Rain days | Snow days |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | -8°C / 17°F | -14°C / 7°F | 35 mm | 19 | — |
| February | -5°C / 22°F | -10°C / 13°F | 32 mm | 18 | — |
| March | -2°C / 28°F | -8°C / 18°F | 41 mm | 21 | — |
| April | 3°C / 37°F | -4°C / 25°F | 41 mm | 21 | — |
| May | 9°C / 49°F | 1°C / 34°F | 64 mm | 22 | — |
| June | 14°C / 57°F | 6°C / 43°F | 79 mm | 21 | — |
| July | 18°C / 64°F | 10°C / 51°F | 56 mm | 19 | — |
| August | 16°C / 60°F | 9°C / 48°F | 81 mm | 23 | — |
| September | 10°C / 50°F | 5°C / 41°F | 66 mm | 19 | — |
| October | 3°C / 37°F | -1°C / 30°F | 51 mm | 20 | — |
| November | -2°C / 28°F | -6°C / 21°F | 35 mm | 18 | — |
| December | -5°C / 23°F | -10°C / 14°F | 36 mm | 18 | — |
Other cities with similar December weather
🌍 See the full ranked list of climate twins for Murmansk in December →
Frequently asked questions
How hot is Murmansk in December?
In December, Murmansk averages a high of -5°C (23°F) and a low of -10°C (14°F) — generally cold.
Does it rain a lot in Murmansk in December?
December is quite rainy in Murmansk, with about 18 rainy days on average.
Is December a good time to visit Murmansk?
December is cold but on the rainy side. It suits travelers who are comfortable with cold weather; check the month-by-month ranking to compare it against the rest of the year.
What should I pack for Murmansk in December?
Pack heavy winter layers, a coat, hat and gloves, plus a compact umbrella or rain jacket. See the full December packing list for Murmansk for a complete, climate-based checklist.
Check the live 10-day forecast and sunrise/sunset.