Weather in Dubrovnik in December

How December compares

December is the 10th warmest month of the year in Dubrovnik and ranks 112th of 134 destinations we compare for December - see where else is hot in December. Within Croatia it is 1st of 4 (Croatia in December). Against London's average high of 7.7°C in December, Dubrovnik is 4.1°C warmer by day and 3.6°C warmer at night.

Daytime and night-time in December

The typical December day in Dubrovnik peaks at 11.8°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 15.1°C or more. Days over 25°C are rare. Nights average 6.3°C; one night in ten drops to 2.1°C or lower, so pack a layer for evenings - it is genuinely cool after dark. Between 1991 and 2020 the hottest December day here reached 18.3°C (2019-12-19) and the coldest night -4.6°C (2014-12-31).

Rain in December

Wet (more than 8 rainy days): about 13 days with 1 mm or more, 201 mm in total. Year to year it varies a lot - the wettest December was 2020 with 398 mm, the driest 2015 with 0 mm. Humidity averages 74%.

Sea temperature in December

The sea averages 16.0°C - too cold for most (under 18°c). Depending on the year it ranges from 14.7°C to 17.3°C. For the warmest sea here, come in August (25.6°C).

Sunshine and daylight

Around 4.1 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 8.9 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 07:11 and sets about 16:15 local time in mid-December. Average cloud cover is 54%.

Is December a good time to visit Dubrovnik?

December is not the strongest month here: cool days and frequent rain. The best months for Dubrovnik on our scoring are August, July, June; months averaging 25°C or more: Jun, Jul, Aug.

Mild afternoons, chilly evenings and a cold sea

The daytime average is comfortable enough for walking with layers, but not for sitting around in summer clothes. Warmer days can reach 15°C or more, so a dry afternoon may feel pleasantly mild; that is a bonus rather than something to build your plans around. After dark, a warm coat becomes more useful, and the coldest nights can fall to around 2°C or below. Pack jumpers, long trousers and closed shoes rather than relying on a light jacket. The sea averages 16°C, firmly in the cold category. For most travellers, December is better suited to time beside the water than time in it.

Keep outdoor plans flexible

Rain is the main catch: about 13 days receive measurable rain, so a short stay could include weather that limits your time outdoors. A waterproof coat and shoes that cope with wet conditions are sensible packing choices. You get about 4.1 hours of sunshine within 8.9 hours of daylight, which leaves a relatively short window for daytime plans. Give outdoor time priority when the forecast looks dry, rather than saving it for late afternoon. The sunshine average does not promise a clear spell every day, and a rainy day need not mean rain throughout. This month suits travellers who can adjust their pace more than those wanting a fixed outdoor itinerary.