Thinking about a trip to Algiers over Christmas? You’ll swap out the biting cold for a mild Mediterranean winter. Daytime temperatures usually hover around 16–18°C (low 60s°F), while nights drop to 6–8°C (low 40s°F), which is pretty great for strolling the city or wandering through markets.
You’ll notice the city feels fresher and greener than in the dry, hot summer because rain falls more often this time of year. The weather in December often means a quick shower or two, then the sun peeks back out.
Humidity stays up there, but the coastal breeze keeps it from getting too muggy. With about 9 to 10 hours of daylight, you’ll still have plenty of time to get outside, even if the days are shorter than in spring or summer.
Bring some light layers, toss in a waterproof jacket, and keep your plans flexible. That way, you can make the most of your holiday, rain or shine.
Typical Christmas Weather in Algiers
Christmas in Algiers usually brings mild afternoons, cool nights, and a mix of sun and rain. The city’s Mediterranean climate keeps things comfortable, though you’ll probably see some rain in late December.
Average High and Low Temperatures
Daytime highs usually land around 16–18°C (61–65°F), so a light jacket is plenty for most outdoor plans. Nights cool off, averaging about 10–12°C (50–54°F).
Records show the record high for late December has hit 21°C (69°F), while the record low dropped to about 7°C (45°F). Those are outliers, but it’s good to know what’s possible.
Afternoons feel pretty mild, but after sunset, the chill settles in fast. If you’re thinking of staying out late, you’ll want something warmer.
Weather Conditions on Christmas Day
Christmas Day usually brings a mix of sun and clouds to Algiers. In December, skies are partly cloudy to overcast about 40% of the time, based on historical data. Showers do happen, but they tend to be light or moderate, not downpours.
Rainfall averages 70–80 mm for the month, scattered over 5–8 days. So, you could luck out with a dry Christmas, but it’s smart to be ready for a few showers.
Humidity sits in the moderate range, making the air feel damp when it’s cloudy. Winds stay light to moderate, which is nice for walking around town.
Notable Weather Patterns in December
December kicks off the wetter season in Algiers. Rain usually comes in quick bursts, but some years bring longer wet spells. December rainfall has ranged from less than 30 mm in dry years to over 120 mm when it’s really wet.
Some years deliver over 250 hours of sun, while others get much less because of clouds. Your experience could swing either way depending on the year.
Pressure usually holds steady near 1020–1025 mb. If you notice a sudden drop, rain probably isn’t far behind.
Rainfall and Precipitation Trends
December stands out as one of the wettest months in Algiers. Rain shows up often, so your odds of a wet day are higher than in autumn or summer. Expect both steady showers and the occasional heavier burst.
Chance of Rain During Christmas Week
The odds of rain in Algiers around Christmas are pretty high. History shows nearly half the days in December get some measurable rain. If you spend a week here, chances are you’ll see at least a sprinkle or two.
Showers tend to be short or moderate rather than all-day affairs. Sometimes, though, heavier rain sweeps in from the Mediterranean. If you’re planning to be outside, it’s best to expect wet weather.
Compare December to July, and the difference is huge. July averages just 2 mm of rain, while December jumps to over 115 mm. Late December is definitely a rain-prone time in Algiers.
Average Rainy Days in December
December brings about 15 rainy days on average. That’s nearly half the month, so you’ll want to be ready for frequent interruptions. The chance of rain on any given day sits at about 48%, which is pretty high for the year.
Rainy days often switch off with clear or partly sunny ones. You could wake up to rain and end the day with blue skies, or the other way around.
If you’re planning to be outside, staying flexible is key. Keeping an umbrella or light rain jacket handy makes city exploring much easier.
Rainfall Amounts and Variability
December averages about 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain, making it the wettest month in Algiers. That’s a big jump from months like May or September, which usually get less than 40 mm. Rain can range from a light drizzle to a heavy burst.
Some years blow past the average, while others stay closer to normal. Mediterranean weather patterns make it tough to predict—one year could be soggy, the next not so much.
Travelers should expect more than a few passing showers. Sometimes, rain sticks around for a couple of days, but it rarely drags on without a break.
Wind and Humidity Factors
December in Algiers brings mild breezes and pretty high humidity. These mix with cooler temperatures and frequent rain to shape how it feels walking around.
Average Wind Speed in December
Winds usually run moderate in December, averaging 11 to 15 km/h (7–9 mph). If you’re near the coast, you’ll definitely notice the breeze.
The city’s spot on the Mediterranean means sea breezes pop up in the afternoon, while evenings tend to calm down.
Winds mostly blow from the northwest to northeast, bringing in cooler air from the sea. This helps keep temperatures from dipping too low, even in winter.
You won’t see many severe wind events, but when storms roll through, gusts can hit 25–35 km/h (15–22 mph). These don’t last long, though.
How Windy Is Algiers Around Christmas
Around Christmas, you’ll find it breezy, not blustery. The wind stands out more by the harbor or up on the hills.
With high humidity and cooler temps, even a gentle breeze can feel chilly.
If you’re out in the evening, a light jacket or windbreaker is a good idea. Coastal walks can feel brisk, but wind rarely gets in the way of plans.
Compared to summer’s still, dry air, December’s breeze feels refreshing and sometimes a bit damp. It’s a completely different vibe than the hot, quiet days of July or August.
Relative Humidity Levels
Humidity runs high in December, usually around 75–82%. The air feels damp, especially in the mornings and evenings.
Cool temps plus high humidity make the air feel heavier. You might spot condensation on windows or feel a chill indoors if it’s not heated well.
Frequent rain keeps humidity up. When showers end, the air stays moist, not crisp.
If you’re sensitive to humidity, this might feel less comfy than spring or autumn. On the bright side, all that moisture keeps the city green and adds a fresh scent to the air.
Temperature Extremes and Historical Records
Most Decembers in Algiers are mild by day and cool by night, but sometimes the city surprises you with an odd warm spell or a chilly snap. Historical records give a better sense of what’s possible.
Record Highs and Lows for Late December
Late December usually means highs near 17°C (63°F) and lows around 11°C (52°F). That’s pretty pleasant compared to northern Europe.
But some years, the record high has shot above 24°C (75°F), making it feel downright springy. These warm days pop up if a southerly wind brings Sahara air north.
On the flip side, the record low has dipped to about 5°C (41°F). Higher areas outside the city can get even colder. Frost is rare in central Algiers, but long evenings outdoors will feel cold if you’re not dressed for it.
Packing layers is smart. Afternoons can feel mild, but evenings cool off fast, especially when the breeze kicks in near the coast.
Unusual Weather Events During Christmas
December brings more rain than summer, usually as light or moderate showers. The city records over 70 mm of rain during the month, spread over several days.
Sometimes, heavy downpours around Christmas cause short-lived flooding in low spots. These aren’t common, but they can throw off your plans if you’re out and about.
Strong northern winds can make it feel colder than the numbers suggest. Snow won’t fall in Algiers itself, but nearby hills and the Atlas Mountains sometimes get December snow, and you might even spot it from the city on a clear day.
These events are rare, but they’re worth keeping in mind. Checking the forecast before heading out is always a good idea.
Weather Comparison: Christmas vs. Other Months
December in Algiers means cooler temperatures and more rain than most of the year. Days are shorter, the sea is colder, and you’ll notice things are much wetter than in late summer or early autumn.
How December Differs from Other Winter Months
December is the wettest month in Algiers, with about 103 mm of rain. Rainy days are frequent, more than in January or February, when things start to dry out a bit.
Temperatures in December run from 11°C (52°F) at night to about 16–18°C (61–64°F) during the day. It’s cooler than November but a little warmer than January, which usually brings the chilliest weather.
Sunshine is in short supply, with fewer hours than you’ll see in spring or summer. By January, it’s still cool and damp, but the rain isn’t quite as intense. February starts to warm up, though nights stay cold.
If you want to explore outside, December calls for a flexible schedule. You’ll probably end up carrying an umbrella and thinking up some indoor backup plans.
Transition from Autumn to Winter Weather
The jump from November to December marks the real start of winter in Algiers. In November, highs can still reach 20°C (68°F), and rain isn’t as frequent. By December, highs drop to the mid-teens, and rain becomes a regular part of the forecast.
Sea temperatures fall from about 20°C (68°F) in November to around 17°C (63°F) in December—not exactly swimming weather. By August, the sea is a toasty 25°C (77°F), so you’ll really feel the difference heading into winter.
Rain picks up, too. November sees some showers, but December is the peak of the rainy season. If you like drier weather for sightseeing, keep this in mind.
Cooler nights in December, often near 11°C (52°F), really mark the end of autumn’s milder evenings. You’ll notice the change most first thing in the morning and after dark, when you’ll want to bundle up.
Travel Tips for Christmas in Algiers
Expect mild daytime temperatures, cooler evenings, and a chance of rain during Christmas in Algiers. Packing smart and planning around the weather will help you enjoy your trip, whatever the sky decides to do.
Packing Suggestions Based on Weather
Daytime highs in December usually hit about 16–18°C (60–64°F). At night, temperatures can drop to 10–12°C (50–54°F).
You’ll want to pack some layered clothing. I’d go with a light sweater or a long-sleeve shirt for daytime.
Evenings get chilly, so grab a warmer jacket just in case.
Rain shows up pretty often, with about 9–11 wet days throughout the month. Toss a compact umbrella or a water-resistant jacket into your bag.
I always choose comfortable, closed-toe shoes—preferably ones that can handle a little water, since sidewalks might be damp.
If you’re thinking about checking out restaurants or cultural spots, bring both casual wear and something a little nicer.
Scarves and light gloves? They’re not a must, but on breezy nights, you might be glad you packed them.
Outdoor Activities and Weather Considerations
Algiers has plenty of outdoor attractions in December, but the weather can really change your plans. You’ll usually get about 6 hours of sunshine each day, so afternoons work best if you want to wander the Kasbah, stroll along seaside promenades, or relax in the gardens.
Rain sometimes interrupts outdoor sightseeing. It’s smart to keep indoor options like museums or cafés in the back of your mind, just in case. If you toss a small umbrella in your bag, you can switch things up on the fly and not lose much time.
The Mediterranean Sea sits at about 16–17°C (61–63°F), which honestly feels too chilly for swimming unless you’re feeling brave. Most people stick to coastal walks and soaking in the harbor views, especially with that fresh, crisp air.
Wind sometimes picks up along the waterfront. If you’re planning to hang out near the sea, a windbreaker or light jacket makes the experience a lot more comfortable.