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Funchal Weather in December, Portugal

Slide and Tap Other Months

  • What is Average Temperature?
    The average high temperature and the average low temperature for that month, on a daily basis, divided by 2 equals the average temperature for that month

    Temperature

    17°C
    64°F
  • What is Average High Low Temperature?
    The sum of high temperatures/low temperatures divided by the number of days in that month, recorded daily

    High Temperature

    20°C
    68°F
  • What is Average High Low Temperature?
    The sum of high temperatures/low temperatures divided by the number of days in that month, recorded daily

    Low Temperature

    15°C
    59°F
  • What is Average Day Temperature?
    The average temperature recorded between sunrise and sunset

    Day Temperature

    18°C
    65°F
  • What is Average Night Temperature?
    The average temperature recorded between sunset and sunrise

    Night Temperature

    17°C
    63°F
  • What are Average Daily Sunshine Hours?
    Total sunshine hours for the month, divided by the number of days in the month. Sunshine hours are taken with a sunshine recorder, either a Campbell-Stokes recorder or an Eppley Pyreheliometer

    Sunshine Hours

    5 hours
  • What is Average Rainfall?
    The amount of mm in rain for that month divided by the number of days, and the number of days that it rains during that month on average, over a given period of years

    Rainfall Days

    16 days
  • What is Average Rainfall?
    The amount of mm in rain for that month divided by the number of days, and the number of days that it rains during that month on average, over a given period of years

    Rainfall

    90 mm

December, 2024

Sun
1 Avg 17º 63º
Mon
2 Avg 17º 63º
Tue
3 Avg 17º 63º
Wed
4 Avg 17º 63º
Thu
5 Avg 18º 64º
Fri
6 Avg 17º 63º
Sat
7 Avg 18º 64º
8 Avg 18º 64º
9 Avg 18º 64º
10 Avg 18º 64º
11 Avg 18º 64º
12 Avg 17º 63º
13 Avg 17º 63º
14 Avg 17º 63º
15 Avg 17º 63º
16 Avg 18º 64º
17 Avg 17º 63º
18 Avg 17º 63º
19 Avg 17º 63º
20 Avg 16º 61º
21 Avg 17º 63º
22 Avg 17º 63º
23 Avg 18º 64º
24 Avg 17º 63º
25 Avg 18º 64º
26 Avg 17º 63º
27 Avg 17º 63º
28 Avg 17º 63º
29 Avg 18º 64º
30 Avg 17º 63º
31 Avg 17º 63º
Forecast
Avg Historical Daily Average

What's the Weather like in Funchal in December

December marks the start of winter in FunchalMadeira, and is one of the coldest months of the year though it still remains very mild with high temperatures and lots of sunshine for this time of year. There's slightly less rainfall than November, making it the perfect time to visit if you're looking to soak up some winter sun.

Temperature

Daily average temperatures in December hover around 18°C, often rising to 20°C and above in the afternoons, making Funchal one of the warmest places in Europe at this time of year. Even the nights are mild, with temperatures rarely falling below 15°C. Packing layers is essential if you're visiting the town at this time of year. You'll likely need a thin cardigan or jumper for the daytime, but you'll also want something slightly thicker for when the sun goes down and the evening chill arrives. It's a good idea to pack suncream as well, though, as when it's hot the sun can still be strong in December.

Rainfall

Winter is also the rainy season in Funchal and, though there may be less rain in December than in November, it spreads across more days than the previous month. You can expect around 90mm of rainfall throughout the month that covers an average of 16 days. It's highly likely you'll see a shower or two, so slip an umbrella and waterproof into your suitcase to be on the safe side. Because of its Mediterranean climate, the rains in Funchal are short and pass quickly, usually leaving blue skies in their wake.

Sunshine Hours

Its location so close to North Africa means that Funchal sees only a small amount of variation in sunshine hours throughout the year. In December, you can expect around 8 hours of sunshine per day, which is plenty of time to get out and explore all that the town has to offer.

December is very mild in Funchal, making it the perfect winter getaway. The temperatures are warm, there's lots of sunshine, and there's plenty of cultural attractions to keep you busy.

If you're looking for a weather forecast for Funchal, you are advised to visit this page.

Funchal Hotels in December

Terrace Mar Suite Hotel

The Terrace Mar Suite Hotel is a stylish accommodation option just moments from the beachfront. Its elevated position means there are spectacular views across the surrounding areas from the roof terrace, as well as the private balconies. There's a heated outdoor swimming pool and spa facilities, too, with Jacuzzis, saunas, and an extensive range of massage treatments. Rooms are spacious and comfortable with their own kitchenettes and lounge areas, plus there's a Mediterranean restaurant and bar for guests to enjoy.

Hotel Imperatriz

The Hotel Imperatriz is a quirky, modern hotel surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens. Rooms are spacious and cosy, with thick carpets and dark-wood, and each one has its own private balcony which enjoys views across the town. There's a terrace-based outdoor swimming pool and a delicious Portuguese restaurant, too, with a charming balcony filled with greenery and peace and quiet. Many of the rooms have their own kitchenettes and lounge areas and there's a games room with pool tables and chess boards perfect for lazy December days.

Avenue Park Madeira

Avenue Park Madeira boasts a collection of stylish, modern flats right in the centre of Funchal, close to the beachfront lido complexes. Each apartment is decorated with bright bursts of colour and white-washed walls, and features a lounge area and kitchen space as well as bedrooms and bathrooms. There is everything you need to make a home away from home, including cooking facilities, coffee machines, televisions, and private parking. Avenue Park is a great accommodation option for immersing yourself in the lifestyle of Funchal.

Funchal Beaches for December

The beaches are a popular tourist attraction in Funchal, though they don't boast white-sand shores. Instead, they feature black volcanic sand or pebbly outcrops. December isn't the best time to visit for the beaches, as the sea can be quite nippy, but the hidden coves and unusual rock formations are a great backdrop for taking a winter stroll or for kicking back and relaxing with a book whilst you soak up the winter sun.

Canico de Baixo

Just ten minutes from Funchal there is a small, secluded black sand beach complete with a sheltered pier in Canico de Baixo. The beach is great for children, with high cliffs to protect the sands from any stray winter winds, and there are a huge selection of eateries along the coast for all of your refreshment needs.

Bars and Restaurants

Marisqueira O Barqueiro

Marisqueira O Barqueiro is a lively Portuguese restaurant decorated in bright colours with a laidback atmosphere. Huge colourful murals adorn the walls and there is a wall-to-wall wine display shelf in one area. The menu is filled with traditional Portuguese recipes including grilled fresh fish, juicy seasonal salads, and tender steaks. As well as the a la carte menu, diners can opt to eat off the very reasonable three-course set menu.

Funcho Gourmet

Funcho Gourmet is a quirky café restaurant boasting bursts of bright colour and unusual ornaments. The outdoor terrace is covered in greenery and, inside, the furniture is white-washed and vintage. You can opt for a coffee and one of the homemade sweet treats or, if you're feeling really hungry, choose one of the main course dishes like grilled steak, seafood platters, and fresh salads. There's also a gift shop inside, so you can browse for some souvenirs whilst you wait! 

Things to do in Funchal in December

Casino do Madeira

If you're feeling lucky, visit the Casino do Madeira for a lively evening of slot machines, cocktails, and three-course meals. There are often live bands that provide entertainment in the restaurant and casino areas, and you can get a set three-course meal complete with sparkling wine to accompany your evening. Throughout the building, there are several areas of arcade games as well as a selection of roulette tables for you to get stuck into.

Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum offers a quirky, educational day out for all the family. There are a number of exhibits that showcase local animals that inhabited the area, as well as a small aquarium featuring a selection of local fish species. Here, you can wander through the often quiet corridors learning about the natural world in Madeira and coming face to face with some of the fascinating fauna.

Funchal Events December

Religious


16 Dec 2024
24 Dec 2024

Childbirth Mass 🛐

During the Feast of the Expectation of the Virgin Mary, also known as the Feast of the Annunciation, the Catholic faithful gather in churches throughout Funchal to commemorate the nine months of pregnancy of the Virgin Mary leading up to the birth of Jesus. This celebration is a time of joyful anticipation and reflection on the miraculous conception of Jesus through the Holy Spirit.

The church services held during this time are filled with prayers, hymns, and readings that focus on the significance of Mary's role in salvation history. The faithful participate in special rituals and processions to honor the Virgin Mary and offer thanksgiving for her obedience and faithfulness to God's plan.

This solemn occasion serves as a reminder of the sacredness of pregnancy and the miracle of life, highlighting the importance of motherhood and the sanctity of the unborn child. It is a time for believers to come together in unity and prayer, seeking the intercession of the Virgin Mary for protection, guidance, and blessings.

 


Fair


23 Dec 2024
23 Dec 2024

Market Night 🎎

Going to the Farmers Market on the night of the 23rd December is already a tradition. Early in the night, groups gather by the fish square and the humming of the traditional Christmas songs begins. Folk groups start dancing everywhere and music bands spread throughout the streets, together with the locals.

31 Dec 2024
31 Dec 2024

Grand Firework Display 🎎

New Years Eve is celebrated in Funchal with a grand fireworks display on the beach. These fireworks can be seen from across the city but if you wanted to see them up close then standing on the promenade or the pier is best.