Winter in Paris feels cool and damp, with daylight slipping away quickly and shaping how you discover the city. Temperatures usually fall between 3°C (37°F) and 6°C (43°F), so it’s cold, but rarely harsh. Snow isn’t common, but when it does show up, it brings a quiet charm to the streets and all those famous landmarks.
You’ll spot the difference in atmosphere compared to other seasons. Holiday lights brighten up the big boulevards, markets pop up in public squares, and the Seine often mirrors the gray skies from December through February.
Rain shows up more than snow, and the wind can make the chill feel sharper. So, thinking about what to wear and where to go really matters.
If you get a sense of the typical winter climate, your trip gets a lot smoother. When you know what to expect with temperatures, rain, and daylight, you can decide if you’ll stroll gardens, wander museums, or just linger at a warm café terrace.
Overview of Paris’s Winter Climate
Paris in winter brings cool temperatures, frequent rain, and short days with limited sunlight. You’ll probably see lots of cloudy skies, the odd snowflake, and the damp air that comes with a temperate oceanic climate.
Temperate Oceanic Climate Explained
Paris sits in a temperate oceanic climate zone thanks to the Atlantic Ocean. Winters stay mild compared to other European cities at the same latitude.
The North Atlantic Drift keeps the cold in check, so temperatures usually stay above freezing. Instead of long, brutal cold spells, you get a steady chill with regular rainfall.
Snow does fall, but it’s light and doesn’t stick around for long. Most of the time, it melts within a day.
Humidity runs high, about 75% to 85%, which adds to the damp feeling—especially when it’s cold and cloudy. Wind speeds tick up a bit in winter, averaging 10–15 km/h, and that breeze can make it feel colder than it really is.
So, winters in Paris end up cool, wet, and cloudy. You probably won’t see extreme cold or heavy snow.
Typical Winter Temperature Ranges
From December to February, average daily highs in Paris hover between 5°C and 8°C (41–46°F). Nighttime lows often dip near 1°C to 3°C (34–37°F), though sometimes it drops below freezing for a bit.
January feels the coldest, with highs around 6°C (43°F) and lows near 2°C (36°F). Snow is possible, but it’s limited—a few days per season at best. Rain, on the other hand, is frequent, and December gets the most, about 49 mm.
Here’s a quick summary of typical winter conditions:
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Rainfall (mm) | Snow Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| December | 7°C / 45°F | 2°C / 36°F | ~49 | 1–2 |
| January | 6°C / 43°F | 2°C / 36°F | ~40 | 2–3 |
| February | 7°C / 45°F | 2°C / 36°F | ~35 | 2–3 |
You’ll likely find damp streets, chilly mornings, and the odd icy patch, but long stretches of freezing weather hardly ever happen.
Cloud Cover and Sunshine Hours
Clouds pretty much define winter in Paris. Skies stay overcast about 60% to 70% of the time, giving the city that classic gray look.
You only get 3.8 to 4.5 hours of sunshine per day in December and January. February gets a bit better, with close to 5 hours.
Days are short, and the sun sets around 5:00 PM in December. With all the rain, the city feels darker and cooler than the numbers suggest.
But sometimes the clouds break. When they do, you might catch crisp blue skies that make the Eiffel Tower and the Seine look even better. Those moments don’t last long, but they’re worth the wait if you want to walk around or go sightseeing.
Monthly Breakdown: December, January, and February
Paris in winter means short days, cool temperatures, and lots of damp conditions. Rain is common, and snow happens but usually in small amounts. Each month brings its own weather quirks that might change your plans.
December Weather Patterns
December kicks off the coldest stretch in Paris. Daytime highs reach about 7°C (45°F), and lows drop near 2°C (36°F).
Expect damp weather—December is the wettest month with around 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain spread over many days.
Snow could happen, but it’s never a guarantee. When it does, it’s light and melts fast. Rain is more common, and cloudy skies keep sunshine to about 4 hours per day.
You only get about 8 hours of daylight, so sightseeing time is tight. The wind can feel stronger in open spots like the Seine or near the Eiffel Tower, making it feel colder than it really is.
Even with the chill, December feels lively. Holiday lights and markets make the damp weather easier to handle. Warm and waterproof clothes are a must.
January Temperature and Precipitation
January usually stands out as the coldest month in Paris. Highs average around 6°C (43°F), and lows hover near 2°C (36°F).
Frost shows up more in the mornings, and sometimes snow accumulates for a bit, but it rarely messes up city life.
Rain and snow add up to about 40–45 mm (1.5–1.8 in). Skies stay gray, and you get about 4 hours of sunshine per day. Humidity hits around 80%, which makes the cold feel sharper, especially with the wind.
Daylight grows a little compared to December, but evenings still come early. If you walk or bike, watch out for icy patches on quieter paths.
Insulated layers, gloves, and waterproof shoes keep you comfortable. Museums and cafés give you a warm break from the chill outside.
February Weather Trends
February hints at early spring, even if it’s still cold. Highs reach about 8°C (46°F), and lows hover around 3°C (37°F).
Snow falls less often, just a few days, with totals around 20 mm (0.8 in). Rain is still more common, but not as much as December.
Sunshine hours climb to about 5 per day, so you get a bit more light for exploring. Days stretch out, nearly 11 hours of daylight by the end of the month.
Winds stay moderate, but damp conditions can stick around. You’ll want warm, water-resistant clothes just in case. February often feels easier to handle than December or January, and you might enjoy Paris with fewer tourists.
Rain, Snow, and Wind in Paris Winters
Winter in Paris means steady rain, the occasional snow, and brisk winds that really set the mood. You’ll notice the damp along the Seine, and the short days and cool air make these elements stand out during your visit.
Average Rainfall and Wet Days
Rain shows up more often in winter than other times of year. December leads the way with the most rain, close to 49 mm (1.9 in) over about 14 days. January and February stay wet, just not quite as much.
Instead of big storms, Paris usually gets light or moderate showers. These can hit anytime, so carrying an umbrella makes sense.
Wet weather means streets and sidewalks might stay damp for days. If you plan to walk the Seine or visit outdoor sites, waterproof shoes will save your feet.
Rain happens often, but the totals aren’t extreme compared to other European cities. You’ll still find dry spells during the day for sightseeing between showers.
Snowfall Frequency and Impact
Snow shows up less than rain but does happen in winter. On average, you might see 1–3 days of measurable snow per month from December to February.
Usually, snow is light, under 30 mm (1.2 in), and it melts fast—rarely lasting more than a day or two.
When it snows, Paris looks gorgeous, especially the Seine and its bridges. But don’t expect an alpine scene. Snow is more of a quick accent than a big part of winter.
If you head to parks or gardens, muddy paths are common when snow and rain mix. Good shoes with traction help prevent slips.
Typical Winter Wind Speeds
Winds in Paris during winter average 10–15 km/h (6–9 mph). Gusts get stronger in December and January, sometimes topping 20 km/h (12 mph), especially near the Seine.
The wind doesn’t usually get wild, but it can make the air bite more than you’d think. This feels strongest in the evenings when it’s already near freezing.
Wide boulevards and bridges are exposed, so you’ll notice gusts there. Narrow streets and courtyards give you some shelter.
A warm scarf and a wind-resistant jacket go a long way. The wind rarely messes up travel, but it does add that crisp winter vibe to Paris.
How Winter Weather Affects Travel and Sightseeing
Cold temperatures, short days, and steady rain all shape how you experience Paris in winter. Some landmarks stay open but feel different in the chill, and outdoor spaces or getting around the city takes a bit more planning.
Visiting the Eiffel Tower in Winter
The Eiffel Tower stays open all year, but winter conditions change things a bit. Highs are around 7–8°C (mid-40s °F), and it’s windier up top, so it feels colder. Dress in layers—a warm coat, gloves, and a hat help a lot.
Crowds shrink compared to summer, so lines at security and tickets move faster. You get more space on the observation decks, which is a treat.
Fog and rain are common, and visibility can change fast. On clear days, winter light makes city views sharp, especially toward the Seine and Sacré-Cœur. If it’s gray, the views might feel muted but still have that Parisian atmosphere.
Booking tickets ahead for timed entry means you don’t have to wait outside as long. That way, you spend less time in the cold and more time enjoying the tower.
Exploring Parisian Parks and Gardens
Parks like the Jardin des Tuileries and Luxembourg Gardens stay open in winter, but they’re quieter and less colorful. Trees are bare, flowers are gone, and lawns can be damp or muddy.
You’ll still get peaceful walks and nice views of the city’s architecture. After rain or frost, paths can get slippery, so waterproof shoes are smart. Benches are usually cold and wet, so you probably won’t want to sit long.
Daylight is short, with sunsets in the late afternoon. If you want to see the gardens in sunlight, go earlier in the day.
Even in winter, fountains, statues, and the garden layouts are worth a look—especially with fewer people around.
Some folks like to pair a park stroll with a nearby café stop. It’s a good way to warm up and still enjoy the Paris vibe.
Navigating the City During Cold Spells
Paris winters don’t often drop far below freezing, but cold snaps do happen. When it’s close to 0°C (32°F), walking around gets uncomfortable fast without the right clothes. Wind along the Seine can make it feel even colder than the city streets.
Public transport keeps running through winter, and the Metro is a solid way to avoid long walks in the cold. Buses are heated, though traffic can slow them down when it’s wet.
Sidewalks stay busy, but puddles and the odd icy patch mean you need to watch your step. Waterproof boots or sturdy shoes keep your feet dry. Carrying a small umbrella is a good call—rain falls on about 10 days each winter month.
If you’re exploring on foot, plan indoor breaks. Museums, covered passages, and cafés are scattered all over Paris, giving you plenty of warm spots to pause. This mix helps you see more of the city while staying comfortable in winter.
Comparing Paris Winter to Other Seasons
Paris winters bring short days, cool temperatures, and plenty of rain. If you want to see how this season stands out, you need to look at how the city shifts in spring, summer, and fall, when daylight, rainfall, and temperatures change in noticeable ways.
Spring in Paris: Warming Trends
Spring in Paris runs from March through May. Temperatures rise steadily—average highs go from about 12°C (53°F) in March to 18°C (65°F) in May. Lows also climb from 4°C (39°F) to 11°C (52°F).
Rain falls moderately, usually in quick bursts that clear up fast. Daylight increases a lot, reaching more than 15 hours by late May.
Sunshine turns more reliable, with up to 8 hours per day. This longer daylight makes sightseeing a lot easier than winter’s short 8 to 9 hour days.
Snow hardly ever falls in spring, and the city’s gardens and parks really start to bloom. You can usually get by with lighter jackets instead of heavy coats, though you’ll still want a rain layer.
The air feels fresher, and the damp chill of winter finally starts to fade.
Summer in Paris: Contrasting Weather
Summer in Paris, from June to August, brings the warmest weather of the year. Daily highs average 22–25°C (72–77°F), and nights usually feel mild at 13–16°C (55–61°F).
Sometimes you’ll get heat waves, but days above 30°C (86°F) don’t happen as often as they do in southern France. Rainfall stays pretty even, usually 30–40 mm per month.
Showers pop up here and there, but they don’t really stick around. Sunshine peaks at over 9 hours a day, and daylight can last up to 16 hours.
You’ll notice lighter skies, longer evenings, and a lot more outdoor activity than in winter. Crowds get bigger, especially in July.
The weather makes walking and river cruises comfortable. You might still want a light umbrella or rain jacket, but you can leave the heavy winter layers at home.
Fall in Paris: Transition to Winter
Fall in Paris stretches from September to November. Temperatures start off mild, with September highs near 21°C (70°F), but by November, they drop to about 10°C (50°F).
Nights cool down fast, averaging 5°C (41°F) late in the season. Rain falls more often, especially in November, with totals around 35–40 mm.
Sunshine hours slide from nearly 8 in September to just 4 by November, which really signals the shorter days of winter.
The season feels like a transition. September often looks and feels like late summer, while November already hints at early winter.
You’ll need layers, since mornings and evenings can feel pretty chilly. The crisp air and falling leaves mark the shift back toward the colder, wetter conditions of Paris winters.
Best Time to Visit Paris for Different Experiences
Paris changes with every season, offering calm winter streets or lively summer festivals. The weather, crowd levels, and cultural events all shape what kind of trip you’ll have.
Why Some Prefer Winter Visits
You might find winter in Paris really appealing if you want fewer tourists and shorter lines at big attractions. Museums like the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay feel easier to enjoy without the heavy summer crowds.
Hotels and flights usually cost less outside of the holiday weeks. The weather from December through February is cold, with average highs around 37–46°F (3–8°C).
Rain and overcast skies show up a lot, but snow hardly ever falls. If you pack warm coats, scarves, and gloves, you can still walk comfortably through neighborhoods like Le Marais or Saint-Germain.
Winter brings a quieter atmosphere to the city. Cafés feel extra inviting when you step in from the cold, and you can linger over long meals without the rush of peak tourist season.
For many travelers, this slower pace makes winter the best time to visit Paris.
Seasonal Events and Festive Atmosphere
If you visit Paris in December, you’ll spot Christmas markets, glowing light displays, and decorated shop windows along the Champs-Élysées. Smaller neighborhoods join in too, showing off their own holiday spirit.
Popular spots set up ice skating rinks, which definitely add to the winter charm. There’s something about gliding around under the lights that just feels magical, isn’t there?
January kicks off the winter sales, or les soldes d’hiver. The government sets the dates, and suddenly, tons of stores slash their prices.
It’s honestly a great time to hunt for deals on fashion, home goods, or maybe even a quirky souvenir.
February doesn’t slow down either. Concerts, exhibitions, and Valentine’s Day events keep the city’s cultural life buzzing.
Paris feels a bit quieter, but it’s still lively. If you care about atmosphere as much as the weather, winter in Paris really has its own appeal.