Weather in Sicily in December

How December compares

December is the 10th warmest month of the year in Sicily and ranks 77th of 134 destinations we compare for December - see where else is hot in December. Within Italy it is 1st of 16 (Italy in December). Against London's average high of 7.7°C in December, Sicily is 7.7°C warmer by day and 6.5°C warmer at night.

Daytime and night-time in December

The typical December day in Sicily peaks at 15.4°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 18.1°C or more. Days over 25°C are rare. Nights average 9.2°C; one night in ten drops to 6.1°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 23.8°C (2010-12-09) and the coldest night 1.7°C (2001-12-19).

Rain in December

Some rain (4-8 rainy days): about 8 days with 1 mm or more, 66 mm in total. Year to year it varies a lot - the wettest December was 2005 with 202 mm, the driest 2012 with 3 mm. Humidity averages 78%.

Sea temperature in December

The sea averages 16.8°C - too cold for most (under 18°c). Depending on the year it ranges from 16.1°C to 17.6°C. For the warmest sea here, come in August (26.4°C).

Sunshine and daylight

Around 4.8 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 9.4 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 07:07 and sets about 16:43 local time in mid-December. Average cloud cover is 49%.

Is December a good time to visit Sicily?

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

Milder than London, but still jacket weather

December afternoons in Sicily are noticeably milder than London's average high of around 8°C, but don't pack as though you're heading into summer. The warmest days reach around 18°C or more, while the coldest nights fall to roughly 6°C or below. Layers give you flexibility: a lighter top may be comfortable during a mild afternoon, with a jumper and jacket ready for later. Midday is a sensible time for being outdoors if warmth matters to you, rather than a period to avoid because of heat. Evening plans need warmer clothing, particularly if you expect to spend time sitting outside.

Keep daytime plans flexible

There are about 8 rainy days in December, so rain is a genuine consideration without being a reason to dismiss the month outright. Bring a waterproof jacket and shoes you can comfortably wear in wet conditions, and keep outdoor plans movable rather than tied to a rigid schedule. Around 4.8 hours of sunshine sit within 9.4 hours of daylight: there is scope for time in the sun, but an all-day sunny outlook is not something to count on. Start outdoor activities earlier rather than leaving them until late afternoon, and have an indoor alternative for spells of rain.

The sea is the main compromise

At an average of 16.8°C, the sea is cold, not merely cooler than summer. Its December range of 16°C to 18°C means you should not base the trip on comfortable swimming, even if the air feels pleasant on a brighter afternoon. Time by the water is better planned around staying dry, with layers available when you stop moving. This makes December a better fit for travellers who want to be outdoors without heat than for those whose holiday revolves around the beach. If warm-weather priorities drive your decision, June, July and August are better months to consider.