Georgia, a country located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. With its diverse landscapes, from the snow-capped mountains to the sun-kissed beaches, Georgia offers a unique travel experience that caters to different interests and preferences. However, when it comes to planning a trip to Georgia, one of the most important factors to consider is the time of year. In this article, we will explore whether December is a good time to visit Georgia, and what you can expect during this time.
Weather in December
December is one of the coldest months in Georgia, with average temperatures ranging from 2°C to 10°C (36°F to 50°F) in different regions. The temperature in the mountains can drop as low as -10°C (14°F) at night, while the coastal regions experience milder temperatures, ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). The weather in December is characterized by short days, with the sun setting as early as 4:30 pm, and long nights, with the sun rising around 7:30 am.
The weather in December is also marked by precipitation, with an average of 12 rainy days throughout the month. The precipitation can take the form of snow, sleet, or rain, depending on the region and the temperature. The snowfall in the mountains can be significant, with some areas receiving over 1 meter (3.3 feet) of snow per year.
Regional Weather Patterns
The weather in December varies significantly across different regions in Georgia. Here’s a breakdown of the regional weather patterns:
| Region | Average Temperature (°C) | Average Precipitation (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| Mountains | -2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F) | 200-300 mm (7.9-11.8 in) |
| Coastal Regions | 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) | 100-200 mm (3.9-7.9 in) |
| Lowlands | 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F) | 150-250 mm (5.9-9.8 in) |
Pros of Visiting Georgia in December
Despite the cold weather, December has its advantages when it comes to visiting Georgia. Here are some pros of visiting Georgia in December: (See Also: Is March A Good Time To Visit The Bahamas – Discover Now)
- Less Crowded: December is considered off-season in Georgia, which means fewer tourists and a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Lower Prices: Accommodation and tour prices tend to be lower in December, making it an affordable time to visit.
- Winter Sports: The mountains offer excellent opportunities for winter sports, such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
- Christmas Celebrations: Georgia has a unique Christmas tradition, with a focus on family gatherings and traditional foods.
- Winter Festivals: December is a great time to experience Georgia’s winter festivals, such as the Tbilisi Christmas Market and the Batumi Winter Festival.
Cons of Visiting Georgia in December
While December has its advantages, there are also some cons to consider:
- Cold Weather: The cold weather can be challenging, especially for those who are not accustomed to it.
- Limited Tourist Infrastructure: Some tourist infrastructure, such as restaurants and cafes, may be closed or operate on reduced hours.
- Road Conditions: The roads in Georgia can be slippery and hazardous during the winter months.
- Limited Outdoor Activities: The cold weather limits outdoor activities, such as hiking and swimming.
Things to Do in Georgia in December
Despite the cold weather, there are still plenty of things to do in Georgia in December:
- Skiing and Snowboarding: The mountains offer excellent opportunities for skiing and snowboarding.
- Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking: Explore the beautiful winter landscapes on snowshoes or by hiking.
- Visit Christmas Markets: Experience the festive atmosphere at Christmas markets in Tbilisi and Batumi.
- Try Traditional Foods: Warm up with traditional Georgian foods, such as khinkali and khachapuri.
- Visit Museums and Galleries: Explore Georgia’s rich cultural heritage at museums and galleries.
Accommodation in Georgia in December
Accommodation options in Georgia vary depending on the region and the type of accommodation. Here are some options to consider:
- Hotels: Tbilisi and Batumi have a range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts.
- Guesthouses: Guesthouses are a great option for those who want to experience traditional Georgian hospitality.
- Hostels: Hostels are a great option for backpackers and budget travelers.
- Rentals: Renting an apartment or house is a great option for families or groups.
Recap
December is a great time to visit Georgia, with its unique winter festivals, traditional foods, and winter sports. However, the cold weather and limited tourist infrastructure are some cons to consider. With proper planning and preparation, a trip to Georgia in December can be a memorable and enjoyable experience. (See Also: Faroe Islands Best Time to Visit? Plan Your Trip)
FAQs
Is December a good time to visit Georgia?
Q: What is the weather like in December in Georgia?
The weather in December is cold, with average temperatures ranging from 2°C to 10°C (36°F to 50°F) in different regions. The temperature in the mountains can drop as low as -10°C (14°F) at night, while the coastal regions experience milder temperatures, ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F).
Q: What are the pros of visiting Georgia in December?
Some pros of visiting Georgia in December include less crowded tourist areas, lower prices, winter sports, Christmas celebrations, and winter festivals.
Q: What are the cons of visiting Georgia in December?
Some cons of visiting Georgia in December include cold weather, limited tourist infrastructure, road conditions, and limited outdoor activities.
Q: What are some things to do in Georgia in December?
Some things to do in Georgia in December include skiing and snowboarding, snowshoeing and winter hiking, visiting Christmas markets, trying traditional foods, and visiting museums and galleries. (See Also: Best Time to Visit Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve – Peak Wildflower Season)
Q: What are some accommodation options in Georgia in December?
Some accommodation options in Georgia in December include hotels, guesthouses, hostels, and rentals.