Thinking about spending Christmas in Sousse? You’ll find the weather mild and comfortable, especially when you compare it to the chillier winters across much of Europe. Daytime temperatures usually sit around 16–18°C, and nights drop to about 10–12°C, so it’s a pretty pleasant time for sightseeing or being outside.
Sure, rain happens, but showers tend to be short and not frequent enough to ruin your holiday plans.
You won’t get that hot summer beach vibe in December, but the Mediterranean air still feels fresh, and the sea gives the city a calm, laid-back backdrop.
You’ll see about six hours of sunshine each day, which is plenty for wandering historic sites, strolling the marina, or just hanging out at a café.
Christmas in Sousse feels quieter and slower than the packed summer months.
You get a nice mix of mild temperatures, moderate humidity, and fewer crowds, which makes the city inviting for cultural visits or coastal walks.
Typical December Weather in Sousse
In December, Sousse brings mild daytime warmth, cool nights, and a mix of dry and rainy days.
You’ll notice moderate temperatures, some showers, and a comfortable climate compared to colder European cities.
Average Daytime and Nighttime Temperatures
During December, Sousse’s daytime highs usually reach 16–18°C (61–64°F).
On some warmer days, it can climb to 20–21°C (68–70°F), especially earlier in the month.
Nights cool off to around 9–12°C (48–54°F).
By the end of December, nights sometimes dip closer to 10°C (50°F) or even a bit lower.
This range keeps things comfortable for exploring, but you’ll probably want a light jacket in the evenings.
The sea temperature averages 17–18°C (63–64°F), which feels too chilly for most swimmers but works for a walk along the coast.
| Time of Day | Typical Temperature |
|---|---|
| Daytime | 16–18°C (61–64°F) |
| Nighttime | 9–12°C (48–54°F) |
| Sea | 17–18°C (63–64°F) |
Rainfall and Wet Days
December brings more rain to Sousse than other months, but the rainfall usually stays light to moderate.
You’ll see 8–10 days with some rain during the month.
Total rainfall averages 30–50 mm, depending on the year.
Showers often pass quickly, but some days can bring steady light rain.
Storms don’t really happen, and heavy downpours are rare.
You’ll get a mix of sunny, cloudy, and rainy days.
About a third of the month might be overcast, but the rest is brighter.
Packing a small umbrella or rain jacket helps you stay comfortable if you’re out and about.
Humidity and Comfort Levels
Humidity in December usually stays moderate, around 65–75%.
Most people find this level comfortable, especially if you’ve experienced Tunisia’s hot and humid summers.
Breezes from the Mediterranean keep the air feeling fresh.
Winds average about 25–30 km/h, and that can make evenings feel cooler than the numbers suggest.
You’ll get 5–6 hours of sunshine during the day, which is enough for outdoor plans without the harsh summer sun.
The UV index sits at 2–3, so you won’t need heavy sunblock, but sunglasses and a bit of sunscreen still make sense on clear days.
Weather Conditions During Christmas Week
During Christmas week, Sousse brings mild days, cool evenings, and a moderate chance of rain.
Days are shorter, but you still get a few hours of sunshine—enough for sightseeing or outdoor plans.
Temperature Trends Around Christmas
Daytime temperatures in late December usually reach 17–19°C (63–66°F).
That feels mild compared to many European cities.
Nights drop to about 9–11°C (48–52°F), so pack a light jacket for the evenings.
You won’t face extreme cold in Sousse at Christmas.
Instead, the steady range of temperatures makes walking tours, outdoor cafes, and coastal visits comfortable.
The sea has cooled from summer, so swimming isn’t common, though water temperatures average around 16–17°C (61–63°F).
If you’re into cool seaside walks, the coast still feels pleasant.
Here’s a quick look:
| Time of Day | Average Temp | Clothing Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Daytime | 17–19°C | Light layers |
| Nighttime | 9–11°C | Jacket/sweater |
| Sea | 16–17°C | Not ideal for swimming |
Chance of Rain and Cloud Cover
Rainfall during Christmas week is moderate.
December usually brings 35–40 mm of rain spread across several days.
Showers don’t last all day—they’re usually quick.
You’ll see partly cloudy skies on many days.
Clear blue skies happen, but cloud cover is common this time of year.
You might get a mix of sun and clouds in a single day.
If you’ll be outside for hours, bring a small umbrella or light raincoat.
Streets dry fast after rain, so showers rarely mess up your plans for a whole day.
There’s about a 1 in 4 chance you’ll run into some rain during your stay.
Sunshine Hours and Daylight
December days are shorter, with sunrise around 7:15 AM and sunset close to 5:15 PM.
That’s about 10 hours of daylight each day.
Sousse weather at Christmas offers 5–6 hours of sunshine on average.
That’s enough for sightseeing, walking the medina, or checking out coastal spots before evening.
The lower sun angle gives the city a softer, golden light—great for photography.
Outdoor cafes and terraces stay open during the day, though things cool off fast after sunset.
If you plan your activities earlier, you’ll make the most of the daylight.
Sea Temperature and Beach Conditions
In December, the Mediterranean around Sousse cools down but stays milder than many European coasts.
You’ll find moderate sea temperatures, calmer beaches, and conditions better for walking or sightseeing than for swimming.
Average Sea Temperature in December
Sea temperatures in December usually hover around 16°C to 18°C (61°F to 64°F).
That’s a big drop from summer, when the water can hit 27°C (81°F) or more.
Most swimmers find it chilly, especially if you’re not used to cold water.
Locals and seasoned swimmers might still take quick dips, but it’s not really swimming season.
The Mediterranean stays pretty stable in winter, without big temperature swings.
Wind and occasional rain can change things a bit along the shore.
Swimming and Water Activities
Swimming is possible in December, but expect brisk water conditions.
If you plan to stay in the sea for more than a few minutes, a wetsuit helps.
Without one, most people find the water too cold.
Light water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding work better than long swims.
The sea is often calm, but it’s still smart to check local forecasts before heading out.
For most visitors, December is more about enjoying the scenery and quiet beaches than swimming.
You’ll probably find the shoreline less crowded, which makes for a relaxing visit.
Beach Weather Suitability
Air temperatures in December range from 8°C (46°F) at night to about 16°C (62°F) during the day.
With the cool sea, sunbathing loses its appeal compared to summer.
Still, Sousse beaches are great for walking, photography, or just getting some fresh air.
Rainfall peaks in December, averaging around 53 mm, so you might get a few wet days.
On clear days, you’ll have several hours of daylight, though the sun sets earlier than in summer.
If you like quiet beaches and mild weather, December brings a calm vibe to Tunisia’s coast.
Wind, UV Index, and Other Climate Factors
By late December, Sousse brings mild coastal winds, a lower but noticeable UV index, and clear air quality.
These factors shape how comfortable it feels outdoors and help you decide how to prep for time by the sea or in the city.
Wind Speeds and Breezes
Winds around Christmas usually blow in from the Mediterranean.
Average speeds sit between 10–20 km/h, so you’ll often notice a steady breeze along the coast.
Strong gusts don’t happen much, but breezier days can make evenings feel colder than the numbers say.
The sea breeze really picks up in the afternoon.
It’s a nice contrast to the mild daytime highs, which usually stay between 12°C and 17°C.
If you’re out and about, a light jacket is usually all you need.
Sailing and water activities are possible, but conditions change.
Wind direction can shift, so checking forecasts before heading out makes sense.
UV Index and Sun Protection
Even in December, the UV Index in Sousse averages 2 to 3, which is low to moderate.
You probably won’t burn quickly, but sun exposure can add up if you’re outside for hours.
Clear skies are common in winter, so sunlight sometimes feels stronger than you’d expect.
The sun sits lower in the sky, which softens the light, but reflections from the sea or pale buildings can boost exposure.
You don’t need heavy-duty sun protection, but a light sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are smart.
If you have sensitive skin, SPF 30 or higher is a good call when you’re near the beach or sightseeing at midday.
Visibility and Air Quality
Visibility in Sousse during winter is usually excellent.
Clear skies and mild humidity mean you can see the coastline and city landmarks without haze.
Visibility often stretches beyond 10 kilometers, which is great for photography or exploring outdoors.
Air quality stays clean thanks to the coastal winds that sweep away pollutants.
Sousse’s seaside location keeps the air fresher than what you’ll find in bigger inland cities.
Dust or sand in the air is rare in December, since desert winds mostly show up in spring or early summer.
Most visitors enjoy crisp, clear air, perfect for walking tours or seaside strolls.
Comparing Sousse to Other Tunisian Destinations
Sousse shares many weather traits with other Tunisian coastal cities, but each spot has its own small differences in temperature, rainfall, and comfort.
These little variations can shape your travel plans, especially if you want to balance sightseeing with beach time.
Sousse vs. Tunis and Hammamet
When you compare Sousse to Tunis, the capital, you’ll notice Tunis gets slightly cooler winters.
Around Christmas, Tunis usually has daytime highs near 15°C (59°F), while Sousse is a bit milder at about 16–17°C (60–62°F).
Nights in both cities drop to around 8°C (46°F).
Tunis gets more rain, with December often seeing 60 mm or more, compared to about 53 mm in Sousse.
That makes Sousse a little drier, though both cities have several rainy days during the holidays.
Hammamet, just north of Sousse, has almost the same weather.
Average highs are around 16°C (61°F) and lows near 8°C (46°F).
Rainfall in Hammamet is a bit lower than Tunis but close to Sousse.
If you’re hoping for warmer seas, Sousse and Hammamet both tend to be more favorable than Tunis.
Regional Weather Differences
The coastal stretch from Tunis to Sousse feels that Mediterranean influence, with mild winters, moderate rainfall, and those cooler nights that make you want to grab a sweater. As you head farther south toward Djerba or Gabès, the climate dries out and warms up, thanks to the desert’s reach.
In December, northern cities like Tunis and Bizerte get cooler and wetter. Central coastal towns such as Sousse and Monastir enjoy mild temperatures and just enough rain to keep things manageable.
Southern Tunisia, on the other hand, might hit 18–20°C (64–68°F) during the day and usually sees way less rain.
If you’re hoping to dodge frequent showers, this regional variation really matters. Coastal spots stay green and mild, while inland and southern areas shift toward a semi-arid climate with more sun.
Travel Considerations in Tunisia
If you’re thinking about Sousse for Christmas, you’ll find mild weather and fewer crowds compared to the busy summer season. The city’s spot on the map makes it easy to hop over to Hammamet or Monastir for a quick day trip without much change in weather.
Heading to Tunis in winter gives you more cultural sites to check out, but you’ll need to pack for slightly wetter days. A waterproof jacket and a few layers should do the trick.
If you’d rather chase the sun, going south to Djerba means you’ll get warmer, drier days and higher average temps.
For coastal trips, the sea in December averages around 16–17°C (61–63°F). Swimming probably won’t tempt you, but beach walks feel just right. Inland excursions cool down more in the evenings, so toss in a warm layer to stay comfortable wherever you go in Tunisia.
Travel Tips for Visiting Sousse at Christmas
During Christmas in Sousse, expect mild daytime temps, cooler evenings, and maybe a bit of rain. Planning ahead with the right clothes, activity ideas, and a quick look at local weather conditions can really help you enjoy your trip.
Recommended Clothing and Packing
Daytime highs in December usually land around 16–18°C (60–64°F), while nights can drop to about 9°C (48°F). Bring layers. A light sweater or fleece works for daytime, and a warmer jacket keeps you cozy at night.
You’ll want comfortable walking shoes for exploring the medina, archaeological sites, or just strolling the coast. Since rain can pop up, a compact umbrella or water-resistant jacket comes in handy.
If you’re up for swimming or water sports, the sea sits at about 17°C (63°F), which feels pretty brisk. A wetsuit will make longer activities way more enjoyable. Sunglasses are a good idea too, since you can still get up to 6 hours of sunshine a day.
Pack a small day bag, a reusable water bottle, and maybe a light scarf for breezy afternoons.
Holiday Activities and Events
Christmas isn’t a big deal in Tunisia, but in Sousse you’ll still spot festive decorations in hotels, resorts, and the touristy spots. Bigger hotels usually put on special dinners or themed entertainment around December 24–25.
You can stroll the beachfront promenade—just don’t expect to see many swimmers with the cooler water. Many travelers use the mild weather to visit Roman ruins like El Djem or Thuburbo Majus, which are so much easier to explore in winter than under the summer sun.
For a bit of culture, wander through the Sousse Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. There are markets, traditional crafts, and Moorish architecture to check out. If it rains, indoor spots like museums and cafés make a cozy escape.
Some resorts also throw New Year’s Eve celebrations with music and buffets, which can be a real highlight if you’re sticking around through the end of December.
Weather-Related Safety Advice
Rain in December tends to be light or moderate, but it sometimes shows up without much warning. You’ll probably see about 4–6 rainy days during the month.
Honestly, it’s smart to carry a waterproof jacket or something similar, just in case you get caught outside. That way, you can actually enjoy being outdoors even if the weather turns.
Winds along the coast often pick up, and they can hit 30 mph (50 km/h) or even higher at times. Planning to try water sports or take a boat trip? Definitely check the local forecast first.
Rough seas happen more often in winter, so it’s best to skip swimming if the water looks choppy. Stronger currents can sneak up on you.
December’s UV levels drop a bit, but you should still wear sunscreen and sunglasses. The sun bouncing off the sea can give you a sunburn, even when it feels cool.
If you take regular medication, pack enough since some pharmacies close for local holidays. Nights get cooler and sometimes damp, so if you’re sensitive to cold, make sure your place has decent heating.