Things to Do in Montevideo in December

December Weather in Montevideo

26°C (79°F) High Temp

17°C (62°F) Low Temp

91 mm (3.6 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Peak summer season with 14+ hours of daylight - perfect for exploring the Rambla's 22 km (13.7 miles) waterfront until 8pm without rush
Río de la Plata reaches 22°C (72°F) - ideal for swimming at Pocitos and Buceo beaches when most of South America's coastline is too cold
Carnival preparation season creates authentic cultural experiences with murga rehearsals in every neighborhood and costume workshops open to visitors
Christmas and New Year celebrations are uniquely Uruguayan - asado gatherings on beaches, midnight swimming traditions, and familia-style celebrations that welcome travelers

Considerations

Peak tourist season means accommodation prices increase 40-60% and popular restaurants like those in Mercado del Puerto require reservations 2-3 days ahead
Afternoon thunderstorms arrive suddenly around 4-6pm on 60% of December days, lasting 30-45 minutes with intense downpours that flood cobblestone streets temporarily
Beach crowds peak during weekends and the December 25-January 1 period when portenos from Buenos Aires cross the river, making popular spots like Punta Carretas extremely busy

Best Activities in December

Río de la Plata Waterfront Cycling

December's long daylight hours and warm river breezes make cycling the entire 22 km (13.7 miles) Rambla ideal. Start at 6am to avoid afternoon storms and witness locals doing their morning exercise routines. The river reaches swimmable temperatures, so bring swimwear for spontaneous stops at Playa Ramirez or Buceo.

Booking Tip: Rent through established bike shops near Ciudad Vieja or Pocitos. Daily rentals typically cost $15-25 USD. Book 2-3 days ahead during Christmas week. Look for shops offering helmet, lock, and basic insurance coverage.

Ciudad Vieja Historic Walking Tours

December mornings (7-11am) offer perfect conditions for exploring cobblestone streets before heat and humidity peak. Plaza Independencia to Plaza Matriz route covers 2.5 km (1.6 miles) with minimal crowds early morning. Afternoon storms make indoor stops at museums essential backup plans.

Booking Tip: Morning tours (starting 8-9am) avoid afternoon weather and crowds. Typically $20-35 USD for 3-hour experiences. Book through certified guides who offer indoor alternatives during rain. Reserve 5-7 days ahead for December dates.

Traditional Asado and Wine Experiences

December is prime asado season when Uruguayans perfect their grilling techniques for Christmas celebrations. Evening experiences (starting 6pm) avoid daytime heat while showcasing summer grilling traditions. Learn techniques specific to Uruguayan cuts like entraña and asado de tira paired with Tannat wines.

Booking Tip: Evening sessions work best in December's climate. Experiences typically range $45-75 USD including wine pairings. Book with operators offering covered outdoor spaces for weather protection. Reserve 7-10 days ahead, especially for weekend slots.

Mercado de la Abundancia and Local Markets

December brings peak summer produce - perfect timing for market tours featuring seasonal fruits like cherries, peaches, and early grapes. Morning visits (8-10am) offer best selection and cooler temperatures. Vendors prepare special Christmas items like pan dulce and traditional sweets.

Booking Tip: Start early (8am) before heat builds and vendors sell out of premium items. Food tours typically cost $25-40 USD including tastings. Look for guides familiar with seasonal specialties and Christmas traditions. Book 3-5 days ahead.

Punta del Este Day Trips

December marks Punta del Este's pre-season with perfect beach weather but manageable crowds. The 140 km (87 miles) journey takes 90 minutes, offering access to both Atlantic beaches and glamorous resort previews before January's peak chaos. Ideal for experiencing Uruguay's coastal diversity.

Booking Tip: Full-day trips typically cost $60-85 USD including transportation. Depart early (7-8am) to maximize beach time and return before evening storms. Book through operators with air-conditioned vehicles and flexible schedules for weather delays.

Tango and Murga Cultural Experiences

December is prime time for authentic murga preparation as groups rehearse for February Carnival. Evening shows combine traditional tango with Uruguayan murga - a unique cultural blend tourists rarely experience. Venues stay cool with river breezes compared to indoor winter performances.

Booking Tip: Evening performances (8-10pm) offer comfortable temperatures and authentic atmosphere. Cultural shows typically range $30-50 USD with dinner options. Book through venues with outdoor or semi-outdoor settings for December comfort. Reserve 5-8 days ahead.

December Events & Festivals

Mid to Late December

Montevideo Christmas Markets

Local artisan markets pop up throughout Ciudad Vieja and Pocitos featuring handmade crafts, traditional foods, and live music. Focus on Plaza Independencia and Feria de Tristan Narvaja expanded Christmas sections with unique Uruguayan holiday items.

December 31st

New Year's Eve Rambla Celebrations

Massive public celebration along the Rambla with live music, food stands, and midnight fireworks over Río de la Plata. Locals bring picnics and mate, creating inclusive community atmosphere. Traditional midnight swim at Pocitos beach follows fireworks.

Throughout December

Murga Summer Rehearsals

Neighborhood murga groups begin intensive rehearsals for Carnival season. Open rehearsals in barrios like Palermo and Cordón offer authentic cultural immersion. Groups practice traditional songs, satirical performances, and elaborate choreography.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight waterproof jacket - December storms are intense but brief, lasting 30-45 minutes with heavy downpours

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - 70% humidity makes synthetic fabrics uncomfortable during 26°C (79°F) afternoons

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 and reflects strongly off Río de la Plata water and light-colored buildings

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - cobblestones in Ciudad Vieja become slippery when wet from afternoon storms

Light sweater for air conditioning - Indoor spaces overcool to combat humidity, creating 10°C (18°F) temperature differences

Portable umbrella - Essential for sudden downpours, compact models work best for walking tours and market visits

Swimwear and quick-dry towel - River temperatures reach 22°C (72°F) making spontaneous swims appealing during hot afternoons

Reusable water bottle - Staying hydrated crucial in 70% humidity, and Montevideo's tap water is excellent quality

Evening layers for river breeze - Waterfront dining areas get 5-7°C (9-13°F) cooler with Río de la Plata winds after sunset

Insect repellent for dusk - Mosquitoes emerge near waterfront areas during warm December evenings around 7-8pm

Insider Knowledge

Locals eat dinner extremely late (9-10pm) during December's long days - book restaurants for 8:30pm or later to experience authentic dining culture and avoid empty establishments

Free public WiFi works excellently in Plaza Independencia and along major Rambla sections - perfect for weather updates during storm season and navigation assistance

December 8th through January 3rd sees many Buenos Aires residents crossing via ferry - book Buquebus tickets in advance and expect 1-2 hour delays during peak crossing times

Mate drinking peaks during December beach visits - locals welcome polite interest in sharing traditional gourd, but never touch the bombilla or add sugar unless offered

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities for 2-6pm when afternoon thunderstorms are most likely - plan indoor museum visits or shopping during these peak storm hours

Underestimating how slippery cobblestones become during rain - avoid leather-soled shoes and plan alternative routes through Ciudad Vieja during wet weather

Expecting European-style Christmas markets - Montevideo's celebrations focus on beach culture, asado gatherings, and family traditions rather than winter holiday themes