If you’re planning to spend Christmas in Gozo, you’ll find a mild Mediterranean climate that feels pretty comfortable compared to much of Europe. Average daytime temperatures usually sit around 17–18°C, and nights hover close to 15–16°C, so the holiday season is great for being outdoors.
Rain does happen, but it tends to show up in quick bursts rather than dragging on all day. Often, you’ll get clear skies not long after.
You’ll notice the days are shorter in December, with the sun dipping below the horizon before 5 p.m. Still, Gozo gives you about eight hours of daylight.
This mix of cooler air, bits of sunshine, and the odd shower creates a pretty chill vibe, perfect for sightseeing or just taking it easy.
Gozo’s Christmas weather brings steady breezes and that fresh sea air you can’t miss. With comfy temperatures, moderate rain, and enough daylight for exploring, you get to enjoy festive traditions and the island’s natural beauty, minus any harsh winter extremes.
Overview of Gozo Weather in December
December in Gozo brings mild days, cooler nights, and a bump in rainfall compared to those dry summer months.
You can still enjoy outdoor activities, but expect a mix of sunshine and a few wet days.
Climate Type and Seasonal Overview
Gozo has a Mediterranean climate—hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. In December, daytime highs usually reach about 18°C (64°F), while at night it drops to around 15°C (59°F).
Rainfall is moderate, typically 75–85 mm for the month, spread over 10–13 days. December is one of the wetter months, but showers rarely last long.
You get about 5–6 hours of sunshine per day. That’s less than in summer, but still enough for some sightseeing or a walk.
The sea stays near 18°C—a bit cool for swimming, but just right for coastal walks.
Humidity goes up in December, but Gozo’s breezes keep things pretty comfortable. Expect a mix of cloudy spells and clear skies, giving the island a softer winter feel.
Comparison With Malta Mainland
When you compare Gozo to mainland Malta, the differences in December weather are small but worth mentioning. Both islands share the same climate, but Gozo often feels a bit cooler and breezier because it’s smaller and more rural.
Rainfall amounts are almost the same, though Gozo might get a couple more rainy days thanks to winds from the northwest.
Sunshine levels line up, averaging around 160 hours for December.
The main difference is how the weather feels. Gozo’s countryside and open spaces make cooler evenings feel sharper, while Malta’s cities hold onto warmth longer.
If you’re sensitive to chilly nights, you might notice this during your visit.
Gozo Versus Other Mediterranean Destinations
Compared to other Mediterranean islands, Gozo’s December weather feels pretty mild. For example, southern Italy and Sicily often have cooler highs closer to 13–15°C, and Greek islands can get both windier and wetter.
Gozo’s 18°C by day puts it among the warmer winter destinations in the region. Rainfall is moderate—not as heavy as coastal Croatia or western Greece, but a bit more than Cyprus.
The mix of mild temperatures, moderate rainfall, and steady sunshine makes Gozo more comfortable than many northern Mediterranean spots.
You won’t get beach weather, but you’ll have good conditions for walking, sightseeing, and exploring historic sites—without the summer crowds.
Typical Weather Conditions at Christmas
During Christmas in Gozo, you’ll see mild days, cooler evenings, and more rain than in other months. Humidity stays high, and the sea is chilly, but the island’s climate is still much more comfortable than most of Europe in December.
Average Temperatures and Daily Highs
Daytime weather in Gozo in December feels mild for the season. Average daily temperatures sit at 14–15°C (57–59°F), with highs often reaching 17–18°C (63–64°F).
Some years, you might even see temperatures above 20°C, though that’s not the norm.
The first half of December feels a bit warmer than the days right before Christmas. You’ll get about 6–7 hours of sunshine per day, so outdoor plans are definitely possible.
Compared to northern Europe, Gozo’s Christmas weather feels more like a cool autumn day than deep winter. A light jacket is usually enough for daytime, especially if you’re walking along the breezy coast.
Nighttime Lows and Real Feel
Evenings and nights cool off, with average lows around 11–12°C (52–54°F). Sometimes, it drops close to 10°C, especially late in December.
The “real feel” can dip lower because of damp air and the wind. Bring a sweater or a medium-weight jacket if you’re heading out at night.
Gozo has seen rare cold snaps in December, including some frost-like conditions in certain years. These are outliers, but they do show how winter weather can surprise you.
Precipitation and Rainfall Patterns
December is the wettest month of the year in Gozo, with rainfall averaging 110–120 mm.
Expect showers on about half the days, but they usually come and go quickly.
Rain often arrives in bursts—sometimes heavy—followed by clear skies. You might get both sunshine and rain in the same day.
If you’re exploring towns like Victoria or Xagħra, carrying an umbrella or light rain jacket makes sense.
Stormier days can happen, especially if the wind picks up, but you won’t usually see long stretches of rough weather. Gozo still gets fewer days of continuous rain than much of mainland Europe.
Humidity and Comfort Levels
Humidity in December generally sits between 60% and 90%, which can make the air feel cooler, especially in the evenings.
Indoors, dampness can linger, so packing layers is a good idea.
Wind shows up on about 35–40% of days in December, often adding a chill. Coastal spots like Xlendi or Marsalforn definitely feel cooler than sheltered inland villages.
Despite the higher humidity, most visitors find the climate comfortable for exploring and walking.
If you’re sensitive to damp air, look for accommodations with solid heating and ventilation during Christmas.
Daylight, Sunshine, and Cloud Cover
In December, Gozo gets short winter days, moderate sunshine, and a good mix of clear and cloudy skies.
These conditions shape how much outdoor time you can count on during Christmas.
Daylight Hours and Sunrise/Sunset Times
Day length in Gozo during December averages about 9 hours and 40 minutes. The sun rises around 7:05 AM and sets close to 4:50 PM, so evenings come early.
This shorter window means you should plan sightseeing and outdoor activities for earlier in the day.
Unlike northern Europe, Gozo still gives you more daylight than many higher-latitude places in winter.
By late December, when Christmas rolls around, daylight hours stay pretty steady. You won’t see big changes from day to day.
Average Sunshine Duration
Gozo’s December weather brings about 8 hours of sunshine per day on average, though not every hour is bright and clear.
The low winter sun angle makes the light softer and less intense than in summer.
You’ll get a good balance of sunny and partly cloudy days. On bright days, the island’s limestone buildings and coastline seem to glow, even in winter.
If you’re into photography or walking, midday is your best bet for good light. Just remember, the sun doesn’t feel as strong as in the warmer months.
Cloudiness and Overcast Days
Cloud cover in Gozo during December averages about 30–35%, so skies are often mixed.
You’ll see alternating periods of sunshine and cloud most days.
Rain falls on about 6 days in the month. Even after a shower, clear skies often return fast.
Overcast days happen, but partly cloudy ones are more common. The mix of sun and clouds can make for some pretty dramatic views, especially along the coast or in the countryside.
Wind, Visibility, and UV Index
Around Christmas, Gozo’s weather brings mild, changeable conditions. Expect light to moderate winds, good visibility most days, and a low UV index compared to summer, though it’s still worth noting if you’re outside a lot.
Typical Wind Speeds and Directions
In December, winds around Gozo usually blow from the west or northwest. Sometimes they shift to the northeast when colder air sweeps in across the Mediterranean.
Average speeds fall between Force 2 to 4 on the Beaufort scale (6–28 km/h). You’ll notice the breeze, but it’s rarely a problem.
Stronger gusts can show up during passing weather systems, especially when low pressure moves over the sea.
You’ll feel cooler when the wind picks up. Even if daytime highs are 15–16°C, the breeze can make it feel colder.
Coastal areas, especially the west side, get more wind, while valleys and villages feel calmer.
If you’re planning hikes or boat trips, check the forecast for wind direction. Seas can get rough fast when the wind changes, even if the sky stays clear.
Visibility and Air Quality
Visibility in Gozo during December is usually good. After rain, you often get clear views across to Malta and Comino.
Most days, you’ll see more than 10 km.
Haze can show up when humidity rises, especially in the morning, but it usually clears as the sun comes up.
Dust from North Africa is rare in winter, but if winds swing southerly, you might notice it.
Air quality stays high in December. Cooler temperatures and steady breezes keep pollutants away.
Unlike in summer, you don’t get much smog or stagnant air. Outdoor walks and sightseeing are a pleasure.
UV Index and Sun Safety
The UV index in Gozo around Christmas drops way down from summer. Typical midday values are 2 to 3—so, low to moderate.
You can spend more time outside without worrying about sunburn, but if you have sensitive skin, a little sunscreen at midday is smart, especially on clear days.
Daylight lasts about 9.5 hours, and the sun sits lower in the sky. Still, sunlight bouncing off the sea can boost your exposure.
Sunglasses and a hat help protect your eyes and skin.
You don’t need heavy-duty sun protection in December, but basic precautions keep you comfortable if you’re out for a while.
Sea and Water Temperatures in December
The sea around Gozo in December feels cooler than in summer, but it’s still mild compared to northern Europe.
Conditions don’t change much throughout the month, which helps you decide if swimming or water activities are worth a try.
Average Sea Temperatures
In December, the sea temperature around Gozo averages 64°F to 68°F (18°C–20°C).
Early in the month, water is a bit warmer, around 66°F, but by the end of December it can drop to 63–64°F.
Some years, you might see highs near 71°F, or lows down to 60°F. These shifts depend on wind and air temperature.
For comparison, summer sea temperatures in Gozo can go over 80°F, so December feels noticeably cooler.
Still, the water’s warmer than many northern Mediterranean spots at this time of year.
You won’t find freezing conditions, but expect a brisk shock when you step into the sea.
Swimming and Water Activities
You can swim in Gozo during December, but honestly, the water feels pretty cool for most people. Most visitors end up spending less time in the sea unless they’re totally fine with lower temperatures.
If you throw on a short wetsuit, the whole thing gets a lot more comfortable.
If you’re thinking about snorkeling or diving, you’ll usually find decent visibility in winter. The sea’s quieter than in the summer, which is nice. But December brings stronger winds, so you might notice more waves—conditions can really change from one day to the next.
People still love water sports like kayaking, or just walking along the coast. You can enjoy being near the sea without actually swimming. If you want to stay warm, heated hotel pools offer a cozy alternative.
Weather-Related Travel Tips for Christmas in Gozo
December in Gozo brings mild, but unpredictable, weather. Daytime temperatures hover around 14–18°C, while evenings get cooler and rain shows up more often than other times of the year.
If you plan your clothing, activities, and transport with these conditions in mind, your Christmas trip will feel a lot smoother.
What to Pack and Wear
Pack light layers you can swap out as the day goes on. A short-sleeve shirt or a thin sweater usually works for sunny afternoons. Bring a warmer jacket or fleece for evenings—temperatures can drop to about 11°C.
Rain pops up pretty often in December, so don’t forget a waterproof jacket or a compact umbrella. Shoes with good grip are smart, since village streets and country paths get slippery after rain.
If you want to check out churches or maybe attend Christmas services, bring something modest—long trousers or a shawl works. For windy walks or coastal viewpoints, a windbreaker will come in handy.
Swimming isn’t super common in December, since the sea sits at about 19°C. But if you’re tempted to try, a wetsuit definitely helps.
Weather Impact on Local Events
Gozo hosts lots of Christmas activities outdoors—think markets, parades, and the famous Bethlehem f’Ghajnsielem nativity village. Rain showers sometimes delay things or change up the schedule, but usually, events pick back up when the weather clears.
You might want to check local notices or ask your accommodation host for weather updates. If rain sticks around, indoor events like concerts or exhibitions give you another option.
Evenings get chilly, especially if you’re outside for a while at Mass or outdoor performances. Dress warmly, and maybe bring gloves or a scarf, especially for open squares where the wind picks up.
Getting Around During December
Public transport runs between villages pretty regularly, though buses often slow down in wet weather. Slick roads can really add to the travel time.
If you rent a car, drive carefully on those narrow rural lanes. Heavy showers leave puddles everywhere, and visibility drops fast.
Walking feels pretty nice in December since the air’s cooler. Still, you’ll want shoes that can handle mud if you’re planning countryside hikes.
Coastal paths get windy, and I’d skip the exposed cliffs when storms roll in.
Taxis and ride services usually work well in the evenings, especially since buses don’t run as often then. If you plan your routes ahead, you’ll dodge those long, soggy waits in the rain.