December can be a beautiful time to visit Moscow, Russia. The city is blanketed in snow, and the streets are lined with festive decorations. The Christmas markets are in full swing, and there are plenty of concerts and other cultural events to enjoy. However, it is important to note that December is also a very cold month in Moscow, with average temperatures hovering around -10 degrees Celsius. If you are planning a trip to Moscow in December, be sure to pack accordingly.
Here are some of the things you can do in Moscow in December:
- Visit the Christmas markets. These markets are a great place to find unique gifts, souvenirs, and holiday decorations. You can also enjoy traditional Russian food and drink at the markets.
- Take a walk through Red Square. Red Square is the heart of Moscow, and it is especially beautiful in December when it is covered in snow. Be sure to visit the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and the GUM department store.
- See a ballet or opera at the Bolshoi Theatre. The Bolshoi Theatre is one of the most famous theaters in the world, and it offers a variety of ballets and operas throughout the year.
- Visit the Tretyakov Gallery. The Tretyakov Gallery is home to a large collection of Russian art, including works by some of the country’s most famous artists, such as Ivan Aivazovsky, Ilya Repin, and Wassily Kandinsky.
- Take a day trip to Sergiev Posad. Sergiev Posad is a town located about 70 kilometers northeast of Moscow. It is home to the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Overall, December can be a wonderful time to visit Moscow. Just be sure to dress warmly and be prepared for cold weather.
Weather In Moscow During December
In Moscow, Russia, December is characterized by cold and snowy weather. Here’s an overview of the weather conditions you can expect during December:
Temperature:
- Average temperature: -7°C (19°F)
- Daily high temperatures: -3°C to 0°C (27°F to 32°F)
- Daily low temperatures: -10°C to -15°C (14°F to 5°F)
Precipitation:
- Average snowfall: 45 cm (18 inches)
- Number of snowy days: 20-25 days
- Occasional rain or sleet is also possible, especially early in the month.
Daylight:
- Daylight hours: Approximately 7-8 hours per day
- The sun rises around 8:30 AM and sets around 4:30 PM.
Additional Information:
- The weather in Moscow can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for both cold and mild spells.
- Strong winds and blizzards are possible, particularly in the latter half of the month.
- Dress in layers and wear warm clothing, including a hat, gloves, and scarf.
- Outdoor activities may be limited due to the cold weather, but there are still plenty of indoor attractions and activities to enjoy in Moscow.
- Roads and sidewalks can be slippery due to snow and ice, so take extra caution when walking or driving.
Things To Do In Moscow In December
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New Year and Christmas Celebrations: Moscow transforms into a winter wonderland during December, with festive decorations, twinkling lights, and Christmas markets filling the streets. Red Square is a particularly popular spot for celebrations, hosting the annual New Year’s Eve fireworks display and a large Christmas tree.
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Moscow New Year Festival: This month-long festival features a variety of events, including concerts, performances, and exhibitions. It’s a great way to experience Russian culture and traditions.
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Ice Skating: Take advantage of the cold weather and go ice skating at one of Moscow’s many outdoor rinks. Some popular rinks include Gorky Park, Red Square, and VDNKh.
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Visit the Bolshoi Theatre: The Bolshoi Theatre is one of the world’s most famous opera and ballet companies. Catch a performance of one of their world-renowned productions during your stay in Moscow.
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The Nutcracker Ballet: The Nutcracker is a classic Christmas ballet performed by the Bolshoi Theatre and other companies throughout Moscow during December.
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Explore Moscow’s Museums: Moscow is home to numerous world-class museums, including the State Hermitage Museum, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts. Take some time to explore these museums and learn about Russian history and culture.
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Winter Sports: Moscow offers a variety of winter sports, including skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing. Head to one of the city’s many parks or resorts to enjoy these activities.
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Moscow Circus: The Moscow Circus is a world-famous circus company that performs a variety of acrobatic and animal acts. Catch a show during your stay in Moscow for a thrilling experience.
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Christmas Markets: Moscow’s Christmas markets are a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs, as well as traditional Russian food and drinks. Some popular markets include the Izmailovsky Market and the Tverskaya Street Christmas Market.
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New Year’s Eve River Cruise: Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style with a river cruise along the Moskva River. Enjoy a festive dinner, live music, and stunning views of the city’s fireworks display.
Tourism In Moscow, Russia During December
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Winter Wonderland: Moscow transforms into a winter wonderland in December, with snow-covered streets, festive decorations, and joyful holiday celebrations.
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Christmas Markets: Moscow hosts several festive Christmas markets, featuring traditional crafts, food specialties, and souvenirs. The markets offer a unique atmosphere to experience the local culture.
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Ice Skating Rinks: The city’s many outdoor ice skating rinks are a popular attraction during December. Skating enthusiasts can glide along smoothly frozen surfaces and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
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Holiday Symphony Concerts: Moscow’s renowned concert halls and theaters present special holiday-themed performances, featuring classic and contemporary works.
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New Year’s Eve Celebrations: Moscow’s New Year’s Eve festivities are a grand affair, with fireworks, concerts, and festivities throughout the city. Red Square is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists to celebrate the arrival of the new year.
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Cultural Attractions: Moscow’s cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, and historical sites, remain open during December, offering an opportunity to delve into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
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Winter Sports: The city provides opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts, with ice hockey, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling available at various locations.
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Christmas Light Displays: Moscow’s streets, parks, and squares are adorned with dazzling Christmas lights, creating a magical atmosphere during the holiday season.
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Special Menus: Many of Moscow’s restaurants offer special menus during December, featuring traditional holiday dishes and festive treats.
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Sightseeing: Although it can be cold, December is an ideal time to explore Moscow’s iconic landmarks, including the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and the Bolshoi Theatre, without the crowds of the warmer months.