Planning a trip to Fez around Christmas gives you the chance to enjoy a mix of mild winter days and cool evenings.
Daytime temperatures usually hover near 18°C (64°F), while nighttime lows dip to around 6–7°C (43–45°F). You might get a few days with light rain, but sunshine still shows up pretty often, so expect a blend of crisp air, clear skies, and those occasional showers.
This weather feels just right for wandering through the city’s historic medina, lively markets, and cultural sites, all without sweating through the intense summer heat.
Cooler evenings mean you’ll want a jacket, but afternoons often feel nice enough for lighter clothes.
You’ll find it easier to plan your trip when you know what to expect. Packing the right layers and prepping for possible rain makes Christmas in Fez surprisingly manageable and refreshing for sightseeing.
Typical Weather Conditions During Christmas in Fez
During Christmas in Fez, you get mild daytime warmth, chilly nights, moderate rainfall, and a decent dose of sunshine.
Sightseeing stays comfortable, but you should prepare for those cool evenings and the odd wet day.
Daytime and Nighttime Temperatures
Daytime highs during Christmas usually land around 17–18°C (63–64°F). That makes afternoons perfect for strolling the medina or checking out outdoor landmarks, and you probably won’t need heavy clothing.
Light layers do the trick during the day.
At night, temperatures drop to about 6–7°C (43–45°F). You’ll want a jacket or sweater for evenings, especially since many traditional riads and accommodations don’t have central heating.
Warm sleepwear comes in handy too.
The difference between day and night can be pretty sharp. Layering is the way to go, since mornings and evenings feel much colder than midday.
Rainfall and Precipitation Patterns
December in Fez brings moderate rainfall, averaging around 59 mm for the month. You’ll usually see rain on about 9 days, so there’s a decent chance of showers during your stay.
Rain tends to come in quick bursts, not long storms. Streets, especially in the old city, can get slippery, so waterproof shoes really help.
There’s about a 30% chance of rain on any given day. Most days stay dry, but it’s smart to carry a small umbrella or light rain jacket just in case.
Sunshine Hours and Cloud Cover
Even in winter, Fez still gets plenty of sun. December brings about 201 hours of sunshine, or roughly 6–7 hours a day.
Skies are often partly cloudy, but long stretches of clear weather aren’t rare. Christmas feels like a good time for outdoor adventures without the harsh summer heat.
Sunlight’s still strong, so sunglasses and sunscreen matter, even when it’s cooler. The mix of bright days and occasional clouds keeps things comfortable for walking tours and day trips outside the city.
Climate Overview for December in Fez
December in Fez means mild days, cool nights, and occasional rain. You’ll get a mix of dry, sunny days and patches of wet weather, making it one of Morocco’s more temperate winter months.
Seasonal Climate Characteristics
Fez sits in a Mediterranean climate zone, so winters stay mild but wetter than summer. In December, daytime highs usually hit 17–18°C (62–64°F), and nights drop to 6–7°C (43–45°F).
You’ll want light layers in the day and warmer clothes at night.
Rain shows up but doesn’t go overboard. On average, you’ll see about 8–9 rainy days and monthly precipitation between 59–89 mm.
Showers usually come and go quickly.
Sunshine sticks around despite the rain. December averages about 200 sunny hours, so you still get bright days for sightseeing.
Skies can flip from clear to cloudy fast, so it’s practical to pack both sunglasses and a waterproof jacket.
Humidity levels stay moderate. The cool evenings can feel crisp, especially in older stone buildings that hold the chill.
Comparison to Other Months
If you’ve visited during the hot, dry summers—when highs often soar past 35°C (95°F)—December feels much more comfortable for being outside.
You dodge the intense heat but still get enough daylight for exploring.
Spring and fall, like April or October, are drier and a bit warmer, and many people think those are the best months to visit. December, though, brings fewer crowds and cooler air, which can be a plus if you like things quieter.
January gets colder than December, with chillier nights and a bit more rain. November and March are milder and drier, bridging the gap between wet winters and the hot summers.
What to Pack for a Christmas Visit to Fez
Daytime in Fez around Christmas feels mild, but nights cool off quickly. Rain’s possible, so you’ll need clothes for both sunny afternoons and damp, chilly evenings.
Recommended Clothing
During the day, you’ll do fine with light layers—long-sleeve shirts, t-shirts, or thin sweaters. Afternoon highs hover around 18°C (64°F), which is just right for walking the medina.
Evenings drop to about 7°C (45°F), so bring a warm jacket or fleece. A medium-weight coat works well since mornings and nights can feel damp.
Pack comfortable walking pants or jeans for exploring. I’d skip shorts—locals rarely wear them in winter, and nights are too cool anyway.
Women may prefer long skirts or dresses with tights for warmth and cultural comfort.
Shoes are crucial. The old city’s streets are uneven, so sturdy walking shoes are a must. Waterproof shoes or boots help if you catch rain, since December averages about 9 wet days.
Essential Accessories for Winter Weather
A few small extras make a big difference. A light scarf or shawl keeps you warm and also fits local customs if you visit religious sites.
Gloves and a hat come in handy at night, especially if you’ll be outside for a while.
Since rain is possible, toss a compact umbrella or lightweight rain jacket in your bag. They don’t take much space but keep you dry.
The sun still shines for hours in December, so bring sunglasses and sunscreen. UV rays can be sneaky, even when it’s cool.
A small daypack is useful for carrying water, layers, and essentials as you explore. Pick one that’s comfy for walking and secure in busy markets.
How Weather Impacts Christmas Activities in Fez
Cool days and chilly evenings shape how you spend your time in Fez at Christmas. You might get rain, but conditions usually stay mild enough to enjoy the city’s historic streets and cultural traditions with just a little prep.
Outdoor Sightseeing and Walking Tours
Daytime highs in December usually sit between 57°F and 64°F (14–18°C). That’s perfect for wandering the medina or visiting landmarks like Bou Inania Madrasa.
The air feels crisp, and you don’t have to worry about the summer’s extreme heat.
Evenings cool down to around 43–47°F (6–8°C), so you’ll want a warm jacket if you’re out after dark. Streets can get damp after rain, so waterproof shoes are smart.
Crowds at top attractions are bigger than in the lowest season, but the cooler air makes waiting in line much more bearable than in the heat.
You can cover more ground in a day without feeling wiped out.
If you’re into photography, the softer winter light and partly cloudy skies create great conditions for capturing the city’s architecture. Rain isn’t constant, but a small umbrella gives peace of mind.
Cultural Events and Festivities
Fez doesn’t celebrate Christmas as a public holiday, but the steady, cool weather supports all sorts of cultural experiences.
You can check out traditional music performances, visit artisan workshops, or wander food markets without worrying about wild weather.
Indoor venues, like riads hosting dinners or cultural shows, feel extra cozy on cool evenings. The mild climate also makes it a treat to enjoy local winter dishes like harira soup or tagines—served hot and comforting.
You won’t run into muggy weather, so expect dry, cool air indoors and outside. This helps create a pleasant setting for exploring Moroccan traditions during the holiday season, even if they’re different from Western celebrations.
Travel Tips for Visiting Fez at Christmas
December in Fez brings mild days, cool nights, and a fair shot at rain. Packing smart and timing your activities to the season helps you enjoy the medina, day trips, and the holiday vibe without too much hassle.
Best Time to Visit Fez in Winter
Fez’s winter weather feels mild compared to many European cities. Around Christmas, daytime highs average 17–18°C (63–64°F), while nights cool to about 6–7°C (43–45°F).
Rain might show up, with about 9 wet days in December, so expect some damp weather.
Crowds are lighter than in spring or fall, which many people call the best time to visit Fez. December’s great if you want fewer tourists in the medina and easier access to the city’s main sites.
Day trips to nearby towns like Ifrane or Azrou bring a big change—higher elevations can get much colder, and you might even see snow. If you’re heading out of Fez, be ready for shifting conditions.
Christmas itself isn’t widely celebrated in Morocco, but hotels and restaurants catering to visitors often feel festive. The city feels lively but not jam-packed like Marrakesh during the holidays.
Staying Comfortable in Variable Weather
Dress in layers to stay comfortable. A light jacket or sweater works for daytime, while a warmer coat comes in handy at night.
Rain happens, so a waterproof jacket or compact umbrella is a must.
For walking in the medina’s narrow streets, comfortable shoes with good grip are essential, especially if it’s slick after rain. People often underestimate how much time they’ll spend on foot in Fez.
Don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen. Even in winter, Fez gets about 200 hours of sunshine in December, and the UV can still be strong.
If you’re planning trips to the Middle Atlas, pack warmer layers, gloves, and a hat. Temperatures can drop quickly, and snow’s possible up there.
Preparing for both mild city weather and colder mountain air means you can explore comfortably.
Long-Term Climate Trends in Fez
Fez sits in a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cooler, wetter winters. Over the years, temperature and rainfall patterns show clear seasonal contrasts.
Summer heat can be intense, while winter conditions vary from year to year.
Annual Temperature and Rainfall Patterns
Fez weather swings a lot between summer and winter. Average summer highs often rise above 30°C (86°F), while winter daytime temps usually stay between 12°C and 16°C (54°F–61°F).
Winter nights can drop close to 5°C (41°F).
Rainfall isn’t spread out evenly through the year. Most rain falls from November to March, with February often the wettest month at about 70 mm.
Summers stay very dry, with barely any rain for weeks.
The city clocks around 3,000 hours of sunshine annually, with July bringing the longest sunny days. Winters feel cooler and greener, while summers are hot and dry.
| Season | Avg High | Avg Low | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | 12–16°C | 5°C | 50–70 mm |
| Summer | 32–37°C | 18–20°C | <10 mm |
These averages have stayed pretty steady over the years, though rainfall can shift from one year to the next.
Winter Weather Variability Over the Years
Winter in Fez never really sticks to one script. Some years, you get steady rain and chilly nights. Other times, things stay pretty dry, and the days feel surprisingly mild. Basically, the shifting Mediterranean weather systems keep northern Morocco on its toes.
January usually feels like the coldest stretch, with average temperatures hovering around 11°C (52°F). Sometimes, cold fronts sweep in and drop the nighttime temps close to freezing. Snow? That’s almost unheard of in the city.
Rainfall can be all over the place during winter. Some years, December through February brings a lot of showers. In other years, you might just get long, dry spells instead. Honestly, planning a winter trip here feels less predictable than in the dry summer.
Still, most winters in Fez offer mild days and cooler nights. There’s usually enough rain to keep everything green, which is nice if you like a bit of color in the landscape.