If you’re planning a trip to Tunis around Christmas, you’ll get to enjoy mild winter weather in North Africa’s coastal capital.
Daytime temperatures usually hover near 17°C (63°F), while nights cool down to around 10°C (50°F), with a mix of cloudy skies and the occasional rain.
This mix of fresh air and crisp evenings creates a comfortable setting for exploring the city’s old streets and bustling markets.
December happens to be the wettest month of the year in Tunis, so pack for a few rainy days.
Daylight hours are shorter, which means less time under the sun, but the softer winter light really adds a calm vibe to outdoor walks and cultural visits.
The sea cools to about 17°C (63°F), so swimming doesn’t appeal to most people, but other activities shine this time of year.
You can settle into warm cafés, try traditional food, and explore indoor attractions without the summer crowds.
Christmas in Tunis feels unique, blending cozy weather with local culture in a way that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Overview of December Weather in Tunis
December brings mild winter conditions to Tunis, with cooler nights, frequent rain, and shorter days.
You’ll experience a Mediterranean climate that’s comfortable enough for sightseeing, though it’s wetter than most other months.
Typical Temperature Ranges
Daytime temperatures in December usually reach 16–17°C (61–63°F), while nighttime lows drop to around 8–9°C (46–48°F).
It’s one of the coolest months of the year, but it doesn’t feel harsh like northern Europe.
You’ll probably want a light jacket in the evening, but midday can feel pleasant enough for a stroll.
The difference between day and night temperatures is about 8°C (15°F), so layering up is the way to go.
The sea stays pretty cool, so swimming isn’t common.
Still, the air temperature lets you enjoy outdoor activities, especially if the sun comes out.
Seasonal Climate Patterns
December stands out as one of the wettest months in Tunis.
Rainfall averages 65–70 mm across 12–15 days, so you’ll need to be ready for showers every few days.
These showers usually don’t last long, but they can get heavy.
Sunshine is limited compared to summer, with about 5–7 hours of daylight sun each day.
Cloud cover is normal, and days are short, with less than 10 hours of daylight total.
Humidity stays moderate, and breezes from the Mediterranean can make evenings feel cooler than the numbers suggest.
Even with the rain, you’ll find clear intervals that make sightseeing possible.
Comparison to Other Months
December is cooler and wetter than summer, with far fewer hours of sunshine.
In July or August, highs often reach 33–35°C (91–95°F) with barely any rain, which feels totally different from December’s mild and damp days.
Compared to November, December is just a bit cooler and wetter.
By January, temperatures stay similar, but rainfall usually drops a little.
If you visit in spring, like April or May, you’ll find warmer weather, longer days, and less rain, which makes those months more reliable for outdoor plans.
December, though, gives you fewer crowds and lower travel costs, while still being mild enough to enjoy the city.
Temperature Details During Christmas Week
In December, Tunis stays mild compared to much of Europe.
You’ll notice cool mornings, comfortable afternoons, and cooler nights, with occasional rainfall adding a little variety.
Daytime Highs and Lows
During Christmas week, daytime highs in Tunis usually fall between 15°C and 17°C (59°F to 63°F).
These temperatures feel mild, letting you spend time outdoors without bundling up.
Afternoons can feel warmer when the sun breaks through, thanks to about 7 hours of daylight.
Cloud cover happens often, but you still get some clear days.
Morning lows stick around 11°C to 13°C (52°F to 55°F).
It’s not cold by northern standards, but you’ll want a light jacket.
Rain is more frequent in December than in summer.
You’ll typically see around 60–70 mm of rainfall during the month, so expect some damp or overcast days.
| Time of Day | Average Temp | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Afternoon High | 15–17°C (59–63°F) | Mild, often sunny |
| Morning Low | 11–13°C (52–55°F) | Cool, light jacket |
Nighttime Conditions
At night, Tunis cools further, with typical lows near 8°C to 10°C (46°F to 50°F).
These are the chilliest temperatures of the year, so you’ll need warmer clothing if you’re out after dark.
Humidity can make nights feel a bit damp, especially under cloudy skies.
Rainfall is possible, and about half the days in December get some precipitation.
Indoor heating isn’t as common in Tunis as in colder countries, so hotel rooms may feel cooler than you’re used to.
A sweater or extra layer at night comes in handy.
Wind speeds in December are light to moderate, but Mediterranean breezes can add a chill near the coast.
Rainfall and Precipitation in December
December in Tunis ranks as one of the wetter months of the year.
Rain shows up often enough that you should plan for damp conditions, but it usually falls in short bursts, not long storms.
Average Rainfall Amounts
Rainfall in Tunis during December usually falls between 54 mm and 70 mm for the month.
It’s one of the highest rainfall periods of the year, though still moderate compared to wetter Mediterranean spots.
Totals can vary a bit depending on the data source, but most land in this range.
For comparison, these amounts are about double what you’d see in late summer, when it barely rains.
The rain mostly comes as light to moderate showers.
Heavy downpours happen, but not too often and they’re usually brief.
So, while the ground might get wet fast, flooding isn’t a big issue in the city during this time.
If you’re planning to be outside, a waterproof jacket or umbrella is a smart move.
Rain tends to be scattered, so you’ll still find dry windows in the day for exploring.
Rainy Days Frequency
December brings rain on about 12 to 15 days out of the month in Tunis.
That’s nearly half the days, though the rain’s intensity and duration can really vary.
Most of these days, showers are quick and may clear up within a few hours.
You can keep sightseeing or walking around the city without losing a whole day to the weather.
The chance of a wet day averages around 15–16%, which is higher than most months except early autumn.
The rest of the time, skies are usually a mix of clouds and sunshine.
Since rainfall spreads out across the month, you should prepare for interruptions but not constant rain.
Flexible planning, like scheduling indoor visits to museums or cafés, helps you make the most of your time even on damp days.
Sunshine and Daylight Hours
In December, Tunis sees short days and limited sunshine.
You’ll still get enough daylight for sightseeing and outdoor plans, but there’s less direct sun than in summer.
Average Daily Sunshine
Tunis averages about 5 to 6 hours of sunshine per day in December.
That makes it one of the least sunny months of the year.
July, by contrast, can see nearly 12 hours of sunshine daily, so winter feels noticeably dimmer.
Cloud cover is more frequent in December, which cuts down on bright sunlight even when it doesn’t rain.
Plan for a mix of partly sunny and overcast days.
If you’re after clear skies, early winter isn’t as reliable as spring or summer.
Still, the moderate sunshine lets you enjoy walks in the medina, visits to Carthage, or trips along the coast without the harsh glare of summer.
Daylight Duration and Sunrise/Sunset Times
Daylight hours reach their shortest in December.
On average, you get about 9.5 to 10 hours of daylight each day.
The sun usually rises around 7:20 AM and sets near 5:15 PM.
This shorter window means evenings come quickly, so plan outdoor activities earlier in the day.
Museums, markets, and historical sites often close before dark, so timing matters.
While the daylight is brief, the softer winter light can make the city’s architecture and coastal views really pop.
The lower sun angle also creates longer shadows, which photographers often love.
Cloud Cover and Weather Variability
Skies in Tunis during December often shift between partly clear and cloudy, and light rain isn’t unusual.
You’ll get a mix of mild sunshine, overcast periods, and the occasional shower, rather than long stretches of extreme weather.
Typical Sky Conditions
Around Christmas, the sky in Tunis stays cloudy or mostly cloudy about 38% of the time.
You’ll often see gray skies mixed with breaks of sun during the day.
Clear or partly clear conditions happen more than half the time, so you have a decent chance to enjoy being outside.
The clearest days in December usually come early in the month, but even later, you’ll still notice changes.
For example:
- Cloudy/Overcast: ~37–38% of days
- Clear/Partly Clear: ~62–63% of days
December isn’t as sunny as summer in Tunis, but it’s not constantly gloomy.
Expect moderate daylight with a balance between sun and cloud.
Weather Fluctuations
December in Tunis brings mild instability, with rain possible on about 16% of days.
Rainfall averages around 1.3 inches for the month, usually spread across a few light to moderate showers, not heavy storms.
Daytime highs sit in the low 60s °F (about 16–17°C), while lows dip into the upper 40s °F (8–9°C).
You’ll notice cooler mornings and evenings, but daytime still feels comfortable for walking or sightseeing.
Wind speeds average about 11 mph, often from the west, which can make the air feel cooler, especially near the coast.
These breezes, along with shifting skies, keep the winter weather changeable but manageable.
Sea Temperature and Outdoor Activities
In December, the Mediterranean Sea cools down as Tunis experiences mild but wetter winter weather.
This affects how you can enjoy the coast, especially if you’re thinking about swimming or water activities.
Average Sea Temperature
In December, the sea temperature in Tunis averages around 16–18°C (61–64°F).
That’s a noticeable drop from summer, when the water often reaches 26–27°C (79–81°F).
The cooler water matches the seasonal climate, with December bringing shorter days and more rain.
Air temperatures may hover near 18°C (64°F) during the day, but the sea stays much cooler.
For reference:
| Month | Avg. Sea Temp. | Avg. Air Temp. | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|
| August | 27°C / 80°F | 27°C / 81°F | Low |
| December | 16–18°C / 61–64°F | 18°C / 64°F | Highest of year |
The sea feels less inviting for long swims, especially without a wetsuit.
Suitability for Swimming
Swimming in Tunis during December is possible, but most visitors don’t find it ideal.
The water feels cold, and the air can be damp with all the rain.
If you’re used to cooler seas, you might manage a quick dip.
Locals and tourists who do swim often wear wetsuits to stay comfortable.
For most travelers, this season is better for indoor pools, coastal walks, or cultural activities rather than beach days.
Instead of swimming, you can enjoy the waterfront by exploring seaside cafés, walking along La Goulette, or visiting Carthage.
These activities let you soak up the coast without braving the chilly water.
Travel Tips for Visiting Tunis at Christmas
December in Tunis brings mild daytime temperatures, cooler evenings, and a mix of sunshine with occasional rain. You’ll probably find the weather comfortable for wandering historic sites, but you’ll want to stay ready for those quick shifts between day and night.
What to Pack
Daytime highs in Tunis around Christmas usually hit 17–18°C (63–65°F). Nights feel chillier, dropping down to 10–12°C (50–54°F).
Honestly, packing layers makes everything easier. Toss in a light sweater or fleece for those crisp evenings. Don’t forget a waterproof jacket, since December brings about 50–70 mm of rain.
If you’re planning to explore the medina, Carthage ruins, or maybe wander through coastal towns like La Marsa, comfortable walking shoes will save your feet. Streets get uneven, and sometimes they’re a bit slick after rain.
You might want to bring an umbrella or just a small rain poncho, since rain showers can show up out of nowhere. If you’re heading into mosques or more traditional neighborhoods, it’s smart to dress modestly.
A scarf or shawl? Handy for warmth, but also a nice gesture of cultural respect.
Local Seasonal Experiences
Christmas isn’t a public holiday in Tunisia. Still, you’ll spot some festive touches around Tunis, especially where international visitors tend to hang out. Some hotels and restaurants put up lights or roll out seasonal menus, which is always a nice surprise.
The weather cools down, so it’s actually a great time to wander through Sidi Bou Saïd or check out the Bardo Museum. You won’t have to deal with those heavy summer crowds.
Outdoor markets in the medina buzz with energy in December. Locals sell crafts, spices, and sweets—you might even find something unique to take home.
If you head to La Marsa or Gammarth, you can stroll by the sea. The air feels crisp, but honestly, it doesn’t get uncomfortably cold.
Cafés keep their doors open. You can sip mint tea and snack on pastries while soaking up a bit of daily Tunisian winter life.