Weather in Paris in December

December in Paris means Christmas markets, ice skating, and dazzling light displays. Sip vin chaud, nibble on roasted chestnuts, and spend time holiday shopping. While the weather is cold, the warmth of the season is felt in cozy cafes and bustling shops. Here's our guide to the weather in Paris in December.

Is December a good time to visit Paris?

Yes, December can be a great time to visit Paris, even though the weather is on the chilly side. Winter officially begins this month, bringing cooler temperatures and shorter days. It’s generally cold and damp, with occasional rain or light snow, but the festive atmosphere more than makes up for it. 

This is a great time to hit the museums or Christmas markets. While popular tourist spots can still be busy, the overall crowd levels are much more manageable, for those who don't mind bundling up, the weather in Paris in December offers a cozy, romantic atmosphere that can't be experienced any other time of year.

Sunshine, average temperatures and rainfall in December

In December, Paris cools down quite a bit, with average highs around 46°F (8°C) and lows near 37°F (3°C). It’s a big shift from the warmer summer months, and you’ll definitely feel the winter chill. Days are usually overcast and chilly, though you might catch some sunny spells here and there. Nights can get pretty cold, sometimes close to freezing. With the winter solstice in December, it’s also the month with the shortest days. You can expect the sun to rise around 8:30 AM and set as early as 4:30 PM, which makes the city feel extra cozy, especially with all the festive lights around.

Rain is pretty common too, with about 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rainfall during the month. While snow can happen, it’s not that frequent, so if you see it, it’s a bit of a rare treat. 

What about the crowds & costs?

How crowded the city will be depends mostly on what time of the month you are planning your visit.  The first half of the month is quieter, so you can explore the city and its top attractions without too many tourists. But once Christmas and New Year's Eve get closer, the city starts filling up, especially around the famous spots and holiday markets.

If you're looking at hotel prices, you'll probably find some decent deals in early December, but they can jump up quite a bit as the holidays approach. Airfares follow the same pattern — cheaper in the beginning of the month but much pricier around the holiday season.

Want to know more about the weather in Paris in winter? Read our guides to the weather in Paris in January and February.

What to do in Paris in December

The atmosphere in December in Paris is festive, and there’s tons to do. Here are some ideas, or see our guide to the best things to do in France. 

Visit Christmas markets (especially at Champs-Élysées)

When you're in Paris in December, checking out the Christmas markets is a must, and the one along the Champs-Élysées is a favorite. As you wander through rows of wooden stalls, you’ll find everything from handcrafted gifts to holiday decorations, and of course, delicious local treats.

Visit the Musée de la Contrefaçon (Museum of Counterfeits)

For something a bit different, visit the Musée de la Contrefaçon, or the Museum of Counterfeits. This fascinating museum showcases a wide array of counterfeit goods alongside their authentic counterparts. You’ll get to learn about the history of counterfeiting, its effects on different industries, and how to spot fakes yourself.

Winter comfort food at traditional bistros

December is the perfect excuse to dive into some classic French comfort food. Cozy up in one of Paris’s traditional bistros and enjoy dishes like beef bourguignon, coq au vin, or cassoulet. These hearty meals are perfect for warming up after a day out in the chilly air. Also, don’t leave without trying French onion soup, or going all in on raclette or fondue for a cheesy, winter treat.

Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte for its Christmas decorations

If you’ve got time for a day trip, the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is worth the journey. The château goes all out for Christmas, transforming into a festive wonderland with thousands of lights, elaborate ornaments, and themed displays throughout its rooms. The illuminated gardens are stunning too and add to the magical experience.

Ice skate at temporary rinks, including one at the Eiffel Tower

Ice skating in Paris during December is a great way to get into the holiday spirit. Several temporary rinks pop up around the city, and the one near the Eiffel Tower is the most iconic. Skating with the Eiffel Tower in the background is pretty special, but you can also find rinks at places like the Grand Palais and at some of the Christmas markets.

Plan your trip to Paris in December

Planning a trip to Paris? Check out our itineraries that take you through the city's must-see spots, from the Eiffel Tower to hidden gems in Montmartre. Need help deciding where to stay? We've got detailed articles that break down the best neighborhoods, filled with insider tips from local experts. For even more insights into Paris and the rest of the country, grab a copy of “The Rough Guide to France.”

Ready for your dream trip to France?

Organize your trip independently, or let our local travel experts take care of everything for you. Our tailor-made trips manage all the planning and bookings, ensuring a stress-free experience with 24/7 support. Take a look at these sample trip ideas:

• Tasting eastern France (12 days): Savor Lyon's culinary delights, then enjoy a 4-day walk in Beaujolais, staying at guesthouses with daily wine tastings.
• Taste of three (10 days): Discover Belgium's Brussels, Ghent, and Bruges. Train to Strasbourg for Alsace. From Basel, explore Switzerland's Zermatt, Matterhorn, and Mount Pilatus.
• Southern France (10 days): Begin in Marseille, visit Cassis, then explore Provence’s Alpilles region on foot from Les Baux to St. Remy, finishing in Avignon.

Ready to start planning? See our trip ideas gallery for more inspiration.