Weather in France in December

Offering everything from sparkling Christmas markets, to world-class skiing and winter sports, December can be a terrific time to visit France. A word of warning, though, you’ll need to come prepared for cold weather and rain. 

Read on for detail on the weather in France in December, along with info on festive festivals and events, and inspirational itinerary ideas.

France in December at a glance

• Average low temperatures range: 30°F to 40°F (-1°C to 5°C); average high: 40°F to 50°F (4°C to 10°C).
• Colder temperatures, increased rainfall and the chance of snow invite city sightseeing and winter sports.
• Sitting in low season, December can be a quieter time to visit, thought expect a spike at Christmas and New Year.

What is the weather like in France in December?

If you’re planning a trip to France in December, expect cold weather, short days, and a high chance of rain, especially in the north and west.

The weather in France in December varies widely by region. Southern France tends to be milder, with places like Nice and Marseille offering cool but manageable temperatures. Northern areas and the Alps are much colder, with snow likely in mountain regions, great for skiing, not so great for long walks in Paris.

Rainfall is also something to factor in. December is one of the wettest months of the year, with many areas receiving over 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain, especially in the north and higher elevations. 

For comparison, the best time to visit France for dry weather is typically July and August, when rainfall averages just 0.5 to 1.5 inches (12 to 40 mm).

Average daily temperatures in December

The weather in France in December is cold, with temperatures varying depending on where you go. On average, daily lows range from 30°F to 40°F (-1°C to 5°C), while highs usually sit between 40°F and 50°F (4°C to 10°C).

In Paris and northern France, expect chilly days with highs around 40°F to 45°F (4°C to 7°C) and lows between 34°F and 38°F (1°C to 3°C).

Southern France, including Provence and the Côte d’Azur, is noticeably milder, with daytime highs of 50°F to 55°F (10°C to 13°C) and lows between 40°F and 45°F (4°C to 7°C).

In the west, places like Bordeaux and the Loire Valley see highs around 45°F to 50°F (7°C to 10°C), and lows near 35°F to 40°F (2°C to 5°C).

Eastern France, including Lyon and Alsace, is colder, with lows down to 30°F (-1°C).

In the Alps and Pyrenees, temperatures drop further, often ranging from 20°F to 40°F (-6°C to 4°C).

Is December a good time to visit France?

Like we said at the start, December can be a wonderful time to visit France. At this time of year, the entire country becomes all the more enchanting as Christmas markets sprinkle squares and parks with the magic of festive lights and events.

Winter also brings excellent opportunities to ski in France’s awe-inspiring alpine regions, and to enjoy the cultural aspects of the country’s best things to see and do, including dining in cozy bistros.

And, given that December sits in a low season for tourism, top attractions like museums and galleries will be less crowded than they are in the preceding months.

On balance, December is a great time to visit France if you’re hoping to explore cultural attractions and enjoy fine food and wine while soaking up seasonal magic, or if you’re into winter sports.

Why December is a good time to visit:

• Festive atmosphere: Cities and towns across France light up with Christmas markets, street decorations, and seasonal treats. Strasbourg, Colmar, and Paris are especially magical this time of year.
• Fewer tourists: Except ski resorts and vacation weeks, most destinations are quieter in December, ideal if you prefer uncrowded museums, relaxed cafés, and cheaper accommodation.
• Winter sports in full swing: The Alps and Pyrenees kick off their ski season in December. Resorts like Chamonix, Val d’Isère, and Les Arcs offer early snow, fewer elevator lines, and off-peak pricing before the vacation rush.

What about the crowds and cost?

While December is part of the low season in terms of general tourism, meaning major attractions and cities like Paris will be less crowded than during the summer, the vacation season sees a spike in visitor numbers, especially around Christmas and New Year.

Unsurprisingly, this spike is most pronounced in towns and cities that host major Christmas markets and ski resorts.

As a result, costs vary greatly throughout the month, with early December tending to offer lower prices for accommodation and flights. Then, as the Christmas and New Year vacations approach, prices rise sharply.

Where to go in France in December

If you're looking for the best places to visit in France in December, you'll find the country dressed for winter: twinkling lights, steaming mulled wine, and snowy peaks. The weather in France in December is cold and often wet, but it brings plenty of seasonal charm, especially in cities and mountain towns.

Strasbourg

Often called the Christmas capital of France, Strasbourg’s festive market is one of the oldest in Europe. Wander through timber-framed streets lit up with decorations, browse stalls for handmade gifts, and warm up with vin chaud. Go midweek to skip the weekend crowds.

Paris

Paris in December is moody and romantic. Think glowing window displays, quiet museums, and cozy cafés. Ice rinks pop up near the Eiffel Tower and Hôtel de Ville, and neighborhoods like Le Marais and Montmartre feel especially magical.

The French Alps

French ski resorts like Chamonix, Les Gets, and Val d’Isère kick into gear in December. Early snow makes for great skiing, and the pre-Christmas weeks are usually less crowded and more affordable than January.

What to do in France in December

If you're looking for festive, cozy, or snowy things to do in France in December, you’re in luck. The month brings Christmas markets, winter sports, and a slower, more atmospheric vibe in many cities and towns. From sipping mulled wine in Alsace to skiing the Alps or shopping in Paris, December is far from quiet.

Christmas markets in Alsace

Strasbourg and Colmar turn into glowing fairytale towns, packed with market stalls selling gingerbread, ornaments, and regional treats like tarte flambée. Go early in the evening for the full light show and fewer crowds.

Ice skating in Paris

Seasonal rinks pop up in scenic spots like Hôtel de Ville, the Eiffel Tower, and Jardin des Tuileries. Rent skates, grab a crêpe, and take in the lights, especially beautiful once the sun sets around 5 pm.

Skiing in the Alps

By mid-December, snow starts to settle in ski resorts like Les Deux Alpes and Méribel. Early season offers smaller crowds and better prices, especially before the Christmas vacations kick off.

Plan your trip with our France itineraries

Our France itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as a starting point: perfect for planning, but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.

• France itinerary 7 days: Spend a week exploring France’s highlights. Great for first-timers who want a mix of history, art, and iconic sights.
• France itinerary 10 days: Ten days lets you dive deeper, adding Provence’s lavender fields and the sun-soaked French Riviera to your trip.
• 7 days in south of France: This is the itinerary for you if you want to spend a week under the Mediterranean sun, with wine and scenery.
• 10 days in Northern France: Ideal for history lovers and slower travel. Start in Paris, then head to Normandy for D-Day beaches and Mont-Saint-Michel. End in the Loire Valley with château hopping and cozy countryside villages.