How cold is Auschwitz in December? Weather and temperature

Many people plan a trip to Krakow, Poland, in December during the Christmas market season and take the opportunity to visit the Auschwitz Museum in Oświęcim. Many wonder how cold it is in Auschwitz in December. What is the weather like in Auschwitz in December? What temperatures can you expect during the tour?

Weather in Auschwitz in December

December in Poland is one of the colder months of the year. Daylight is short, and temperatures, especially in the morning and evening, are low. Auschwitz is open during the winter season, and you can visit the museum even for free, but it’s important to prepare well. A significant part of the tour takes place outdoors. It can get quite cold in Auschwitz in December.

In December, the museum is open from 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM (visitors can stay in the museum for an additional hour and a half after the entrance closes, so until 3:30 PM).

At the beginning of December, the temperature in Oświęcim, Poland, during the day is around 4 degrees Celsius (39.2°F), and by the end of December, it gets colder, averaging around 1 degree Celsius (33.8°F). This is the average temperature, and sometimes it can be slightly warmer during the day—even up to 5-10 degrees Celsius. However, it’s better to prepare for lower temperatures, especially during early morning or afternoon tours.

In December in Oświęcim, you can also expect rain or, less frequently, snow. Windy days can also occur in December. It’s best to dress in layers so you can remove clothing if the weather improves.

In December, Auschwitz is chilly, and there may be mud or occasional snow. Since a significant part of the tour takes place outdoors, it’s best to wear comfortable, waterproof shoes.

How cold is it in Auschwitz in December?

In recent years, the temperature in Oświęcim in December has ranged from 3 to 10 degrees Celsius during the day and from -1 to 5 degrees at night (data from December 2024). However, it’s better to prepare for the lower end of this range to avoid feeling cold during the tour.

Most important informations:

• Book early:Visiting Auschwitz is worth booking well in advance. The official website for ticket reservations is https://visit.auschwitz.org/?lang=en.
• Temperature range: 3 to 10°C during the day, -1 to 5°C at night.
• Weather conditions: Cold, with possible rain, snow, or wind.
• Clothing tips: Dress in layers and wear comfortable, waterproof shoes.
• Museum hours: 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM (visitors can stay until 3:30 PM).
• Outdoor tour: A significant part of the tour takes place outdoors, prepare for cold weather and a lot of walking.

Read detailed guide on easiest and cheapest ways to get to Auschwitz from Krakow city center.

Related articles:

Is Auschwitz tour outside? Is it cold? How to visit Auschwitz for free? Easy steps Where is Auschwitz closest airport? Where to land? Do you need to book Auschwitz in advance? A complete guide How far in advance is possible to book Auschwitz? Is Auschwitz close to Krakow? Is it to Warsaw? Is Auschwitz open in winter? Can you visit in winter? Can I wear a dress to Auschwitz? Can I wear a skirt? How to get to Auschwitz from Krakow. Best way in 2025