Christmas in Paris usually feels crisp and chilly. Daylight hours are short, and the air is often damp with light rain or the occasional cold snap. Expect average daytime temperatures around 41°F (5°C). Highs range from the upper 40s°F (7–9°C), and lows can dip close to freezing. Snow doesn’t show up often, but sometimes a few flurries add a bit of winter magic.
The weather can shift quickly this time of year. One day, you might get gray skies and drizzle, and the next, the sun breaks through and everything looks brighter. You’ll want to pack for both brisk walks under holiday lights and cozy escapes into cafés or museums.
Planning gets a lot easier when you know what to expect. With the right layers, you can wander Christmas markets, admire festive displays, and stroll the Seine without worrying too much about the weather.
Typical Weather on Christmas Day in Paris
Christmas in Paris brings cold but manageable winter conditions. Temperatures stay low, rain happens more often than snow, and daylight is limited. Warm clothing and flexible plans really help.
Average Temperatures on December 24–26
Daytime highs during this period usually reach 7–8°C (45–46°F). Lows often drop to 2–3°C (36–37°F). If the skies clear overnight, mornings can feel colder and hover near freezing.
Christmas Day feels chilly, but it’s not as harsh as what you’d find farther north in Europe. In recent years, temperatures have ranged from 3°C (37°F) on colder days to 9°C (48°F) when a mild spell arrives.
Pack layers instead of just one heavy coat. A warm jacket, scarf, gloves, and waterproof shoes keep you comfortable for market strolls or walks along the river. Indoor heating works well, so layers make it easy to adjust between the cold outside and cozy interiors.
Likelihood of Snow and Rain
Snow almost never sticks around Paris at Christmas. Records note only a few days with snow each December, and it rarely lasts. Occasionally, light flurries fall and melt within hours.
Rain is much more common. December brings 12–15 days with measurable rainfall. Showers are more likely than snow, and the rain is usually light to moderate, though it can last for hours.
A compact umbrella or waterproof jacket comes in handy. After rain, cobblestones in older neighborhoods get slippery. If you’re planning outdoor activities, check the forecast each day—conditions can change fast in December.
Daylight Hours and Cloud Cover
Daylight is in short supply in late December. The sun rises around 8:40 am and sets close to 4:55 pm, so you get about 8 hours of light on Christmas Day.
Clouds are pretty common. December averages show mostly cloudy or overcast skies on more than half the days. Occasionally, you’ll see a clear, sunny day, but don’t count on it.
You’ll probably spend much of your holiday under gray skies. Still, the city’s Christmas lights brighten the evenings and make up for the short days. For sightseeing, plan outdoor visits from late morning to mid-afternoon when the light is best.
December Climate Patterns in Paris
Paris in December feels cool, damp, and a little gray. Mornings are chilly, rain is frequent, and sunshine is brief. The weather stays pretty steady all month, though sometimes you get a surprise.
Temperature Ranges and Extremes
Daytime temperatures usually hit 6°C to 9°C (43°F to 48°F). Nights often drop to about 3°C (37°F). Frost can show up, especially early in the morning.
Once in a while, highs reach 14–17°C (57–62°F), but that’s rare. Lows can get close to freezing, and record cold has hit -10°C (14°F).
Snow isn’t common, but you might see it once or twice. More often, you’ll get cold rain or drizzle. Since nighttime temperatures hover near freezing, icy sidewalks pop up—especially after rain.
If you plan to be outside a lot, dress in layers. A thermal base, sweater, and waterproof jacket will keep you comfortable as the weather shifts.
Humidity Levels and Wind
Humidity stays high in Paris during December, averaging around 80–85%. The damp air makes it feel colder than the thermometer says, especially under gray skies. You’ll probably want an umbrella most days.
Rainfall totals 70–80 mm for the month, with about 15–16 wet days. Showers are usually light, but sometimes the rain just keeps coming.
Winds average 4 m/s (9 mph). That feels brisk along the Seine or in open spaces. Most days bring a light breeze, but stronger gusts can blow through when a weather front passes.
The mix of wind and damp air makes a wind-resistant jacket and waterproof shoes a smart choice.
Historical Weather Trends
Long-term records show December as one of the rainiest months in Paris. You’ll see frequent overcast skies and less than 60 hours of sunshine for the whole month. Bright, sunny days aren’t common, though they do happen.
Compared to January or February, December is a bit milder. The coldest part of winter usually arrives after the holidays.
Historical averages say Paris in December has about a 50–55% chance of rain on any given day. Snow is rare—just a couple days per decade—and it doesn’t stick around.
These patterns reflect a stable oceanic climate. Winters feel mild but damp. If you visit in December, expect cool, wet, and cloudy weather, with only a few sunny breaks.
Rain and Snowfall During the Christmas Season
Paris in December gets damp and chilly. Rain falls often, and snow only shows up occasionally. Most days, you’ll find wet streets, while snow rarely lingers.
Average Precipitation in December
December is the wettest month in Paris. Expect 14 to 15 days of rainfall, adding up to about 49 mm (1.9 inches) of total precipitation.
Most of the rain is light to moderate—heavy downpours are rare. Short showers happen a lot, and the skies can stay gray for days.
Wet streets and slick pavements are the norm. A compact umbrella or waterproof jacket is a good idea.
Winter rain in Paris feels steady and cool, not like summer showers. Daytime highs around 6–8°C (43–46°F) can feel even colder when it’s drizzling.
Plan for indoor activities like museums, cafés, or galleries if the weather turns nasty.
Frequency and Intensity of Snowfall
Snow in Paris during December is rare. On average, you’ll see 1–2 days with snowfall, and flakes usually melt quickly because of mild daytime temperatures.
When snow does fall, accumulation is light—often no more than 0.5 inches (about 1 cm). It seldom stays longer than a day, so a white Christmas is unlikely.
Snow often mixes with rain, creating slush instead of a snowy blanket. Streets clear fast, and transportation rarely gets disrupted.
Nighttime lows near 1°C (34°F) allow for frost and brief flurries, but long cold spells are unusual. If you’re hoping for snow, you’ll need a bit of luck—Paris winters are more damp than snowy.
What to Wear for Paris Weather at Christmas
Paris in December feels cold, damp, and unpredictable. Temperatures hover just above freezing up to about 8°C (mid‑40s °F). You’ll get frequent rain and the occasional frost. Layers, weather‑resistant fabrics, and a mix of indoor and outdoor options will keep you comfortable.
Recommended Winter Clothing
You’ll need layers that can handle changing conditions. Bring a warm coat—wool or insulated with a water‑resistant finish is best. Underneath, wear a sweater or fleece over a breathable base layer. That way, you trap heat but can remove layers when you head indoors.
Pack long‑sleeve shirts, thermal tops, and a few lighter knits for cafés and museums. Don’t skip the scarf, hat, and gloves. The wind and damp air make the cold feel sharper.
Bulky ski jackets aren’t necessary unless you’re heading to the mountains. Locals usually wear tailored coats and neutral colors, which helps you blend in and stay warm. Versatile items mean you don’t have to pack as much.
Footwear and Accessories
Paris streets get slippery in December with rain or frost. Wear waterproof boots or leather shoes with good traction. Sneakers might work on dry days, but they won’t keep your feet warm or dry.
Wool or thermal socks are a must—regular cotton socks get cold and damp fast. Bring several pairs so you can change if your feet get wet.
Accessories matter. A compact umbrella is great for sudden showers. A crossbody bag keeps your hands free while you navigate Christmas markets. Gloves that work with your phone are handy, since you’ll probably check maps or tickets often.
Packing Tips for December Visits
Pack around layers, not heavy single pieces. This gives you flexibility when moving between cold streets and heated interiors. If you’re planning fine dining or a holiday concert, pack at least one formal outfit—dress codes can be stricter than you expect.
Here’s a simple packing list:
- 1 warm coat
- 2 sweaters or fleeces
- 3–4 long‑sleeve tops
- 1–2 pairs of pants
- Thermal base layers
- Waterproof boots
- Scarf, gloves, hat
Quick‑dry clothing helps since laundry takes longer in damp weather. A lightweight daypack is useful for carrying your umbrella, extra layers, or small holiday finds while you explore Paris in December.
How Weather Impacts Christmas Activities in Paris
Cold air, frequent rain, and shorter days shape how you experience Paris in December. Some activities shine in the crisp winter air, while others are just better indoors where it’s warm and dry.
Outdoor Festivities and Christmas Markets
Daytime highs stick around 6–8°C (mid-40s°F), and nighttime lows hover near 1–3°C (mid-30s°F). With rain common for about half the month, outdoor events call for warm layers, waterproof shoes, and a compact umbrella.
Christmas markets across Paris draw crowds despite the weather. Places like Tuileries Garden, La Défense, and Saint-Germain-des-Prés fill with wooden stalls selling festive foods, decorations, and gifts. The cool air adds to the holiday vibe, but wet streets can make walking a bit less pleasant.
Holiday lights on the Champs-Élysées, Place Vendôme, and Montmartre look best after dark. Evenings feel colder because of humidity and wind. Gloves, scarves, and hats help you enjoy the illuminated streets without rushing back inside.
Ice skating rinks, like the ones near the Jardin des Tuileries, are another highlight. December’s chill keeps the ice solid, though rain can close rinks temporarily. If you want to skate, check the schedules ahead of time and wear shoes with good grip for wet pavement.
Indoor Attractions and Seasonal Events
When rain or sleet hits, indoor activities just start to sound a lot more inviting. Many churches and concert halls, like La Sainte-Chapelle, Église de la Madeleine, and Saint-Eustache, put on seasonal performances.
You’ll find warmth, shelter, and some truly beautiful classical or choral music in these historic spaces. There’s something about hearing music echo off centuries-old stone that feels special.
Cafés and patisseries in Paris really shine in December. Duck inside for hot chocolate, a pastry, or a slice of bûche de Noël—it’s a classic move.
Places like Maison du Chocolat and Jean-Paul Hévin draw both locals and travelers who want a cozy break from the chill.
Museums, especially the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, stay open all season. You can easily spend hours wandering indoors, and with the sun setting early, afternoons are ideal for a visit.
Indoor spots keep you dry and warm, but they also give you a real taste of Parisian culture. Who wants to shiver in wet clothes if you don’t have to?
Travel Tips for Experiencing Paris in December
December in Paris gets chilly and damp, and the days feel short. Still, the city buzzes with holiday markets, sparkling lights, and plenty of seasonal treats.
If you plan ahead for the weather and figure out how to get around, you’ll avoid a lot of hassle.
Staying Comfortable in Cold Weather
During the day, temperatures usually hover between 39°F and 47°F (4°C to 8°C). Nights can dip right down to freezing, and rain shows up pretty often.
You might see snow, but honestly, it’s not a regular thing. Streets are damp, and wind can cut through, especially along the river.
Pack layers—don’t just bring one big coat. A waterproof jacket, a warm sweater, and some thermal underlayers let you adjust whether you’re inside or out.
Don’t forget gloves, scarves, and hats. Those really help when you’re walking by the Seine or across open squares.
Shoes matter a lot in Paris in December. Go for water-resistant shoes with a good grip—those old cobblestones get slick when it’s wet.
A compact umbrella is handy, but honestly, a hooded coat works better in crowds.
Cafés, museums, and department stores crank up the heat, so you’ll want to peel off layers when you step inside.
If you’re heading to Christmas markets or ice-skating rinks at night, grab an extra layer to stay warm while you stand around.
Getting Around the City
You can count on public transportation throughout winter. The Paris Métro runs often, even late into the night.
Trains and buses crank up the heat, so you’ll get a nice break from the cold between stops.
Walking’s still one of the best ways to soak up Paris in December. Just watch out—sidewalks might be damp or even icy in the mornings.
If you’re walking between neighborhoods, give yourself a little extra time.
For longer trips, hop on the RER trains for quick connections to places like Versailles. Taxis and rideshares pop up everywhere, but honestly, they crawl during holiday traffic.
If you’re planning to explore Christmas markets or hit the big shopping areas, try to group your activities in the same spot. That’ll save you a lot of travel time.
Keep a Navigo Easy pass or a stack of tickets handy. It’ll help you dodge those long lines at busy stations.