Bucharest in December
Not the best time
December offers holiday charm with Christmas markets and festive decorations, but bitter cold limits outdoor activities. The city looks magical under snow, but you'll spend most time indoors staying warm.
Weather
December brings winter's full force with freezing temperatures and regular snowfall that transforms the city into a winter postcard. Snow often sticks around, creating slippery sidewalks but beautiful scenery. Days grow painfully short with darkness falling by 4 PM.
4°C high-2°C low9 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$50/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Christmas markets
- •New Year's Eve celebration in University Square
- •St. Nicholas Day (December 6)
December Tips
- •Christmas markets add charm but outdoor exploration remains challenging
- •New Year's Eve draws crowds to central squares
- •Many attractions have reduced winter hours
All Months
May through September gives you the best weather and longest days. Summer temperatures hit 30°C regularly, but evenings cool down enough for comfortable walking. July and August see the most tourists, though Bucharest never feels truly crowded.
April can be tricky — one day you're wearing shorts, the next you need a jacket. But spring brings fewer crowds and hotel prices drop 20-30% from peak season.
Winter isn't pretty. Gray skies dominate from November through March, and temperatures hover around freezing. The upside? Hotel rates plummet, and you'll have major attractions mostly to yourself. Plus, Christmas markets pop up in December, and mulled wine tastes better when it's actually cold outside.
Avoid major Romanian holidays like Easter and August 15th when locals travel and many restaurants close.
Bucharest Scores
Solo
7/10
Couples
6/10
Families
6/10
Adventure
5/10
Budget
9/10
Luxury
5/10
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