Interlaken weather in December
“Cool and moody. Best paired with warm rooms and long lunches.”
Roughly 14 rainy days across the month, on average.
December in Interlaken brings cold, wet Alpine weather with daytime highs around 8°C (46°F) and nights dropping to 2°C (36°F). Expect significant rainfall with roughly 144mm of precipitation spread across 14 rainy days, though you'll still enjoy about 5 hours of sunshine daily. Snow is possible at higher elevations, creating a picturesque winter landscape in the surrounding mountains.
This is the shoulder season before peak winter tourism ramps up. The town has a cozy festive atmosphere with Christmas decorations and markets, but fewer crowds than January. It's quieter than summer yet still offers access to winter sports and scenic views, making it ideal for travelers seeking a more authentic, less crowded experience.
For 2026, December is perfect if you want mild winter activities without extreme cold. Bring waterproof gear since rain is frequent, but don't expect harsh Alpine conditions. Hotels offer good availability and reasonable rates compared to peak season, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers.
What to pack for Interlaken in December
December requires layering and waterproof protection. The combination of cold temperatures, frequent rain, and potential snow means you'll need versatile pieces that handle moisture and chill. Pack items you can mix and match for varying conditions throughout the day.
- Waterproof winter jacket with fleece lining
- Merino wool thermal base layers
- Insulated hiking boots with grip soles
- Wool beanie and insulated gloves
- Waterproof daypack cover
What to pack for Interlaken in December
- →Lightweight fleeceAmazon · shop this
- →Merino travel socksAmazon · shop this
- →Packable rain jacketAmazon · shop this
- →Compact travel umbrellaAmazon · shop this
- →Waterproof dry bagAmazon · shop this
- →Universal travel adapterAmazon · shop this
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Where to stay in Interlaken
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Compare hotels on Booking.com→Things worth doing
Winter hiking on lower trails, Christmas markets in the village, scenic train rides to Jungfraujoch, snowshoeing in nearby forests.
Other places with a similar climate right now
Interlaken in December — FAQ
Q01Is December a good time to visit Interlaken?
Is December a good time to visit Interlaken?
It is a fair time to visit — expect variable conditions and plan flexibility. In December, Interlaken averages a high of 8°C (47°F) and a low of 2°C (36°F), with 133mm of rainfall across roughly 14 rainy days.
Q02What is the average temperature in Interlaken in December?
What is the average temperature in Interlaken in December?
The average high temperature in Interlaken during December is 8°C (47°F), with an average low of 2°C (36°F). These figures are averaged from ten years of daily records (2015–2024, Open-Meteo Archive).
Q03How many rainy days does Interlaken have in December?
How many rainy days does Interlaken have in December?
Interlaken averages approximately 14 rainy days in December, with a total monthly rainfall of about 133mm. This is based on daily precipitation records where days with 1mm or more of rain are counted as rainy days.
Q04What should I pack for Interlaken in December?
What should I pack for Interlaken in December?
For Interlaken 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 the ten-year weather averages for this specific month.
Q05How crowded is Interlaken in December?
How crowded is Interlaken in December?
Tourist crowds in Interlaken 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.