Paris in December is completely different to any month of the year. The holiday season transforms the city into a winter wonderland with cosy cafés adorned with festive lights and Christmas markets serving up vin chaud.
If you’re visiting Paris in December then this guide is for you. I’ve been living here for over 8 years and I’ll tell you what to expect and what to do!
How is Paris in December?
Paris is December is rather magical. Unlike 10 years ago, the city (and the French) have embraced the anglophone Christmas spirit. The city transforms into a winter wonderland during the final week of November and first few days of December.
You’ll find Christmas trees, lights and decorations in practically ever neighbourhood in Paris. The popular Christmas themed window displays at Galeries Lafayettes and Printemps can’t be missed. Oh and there’s also ice skating rinks setup on the Eiffel Tower and in the stunning Grand Palais.
Whilst the weather generally isn’t the best (in my experience it’s very unpredictable), it does mean that you can spend time in the city’s incredible museums and galleries. If you’re lucky to experience blue skies then take advantage of this and walk in the city’s beautiful parks.
As Christmas approaches, Parisians sign-off for the holidays and make their way towards the city’s many train stations. You’ll find it’s a very different experience around a week before Christmas than before. This is a great time to see the sights if you want to avoid the crowds.
A lot of restaurants and cafés in Paris close from Christmas Eve to New Year’s Day. Remember, holidays in France are sacred to the French. There are restaurants open during the holidays but make sure to reserve a table well in advance!
What to Do in Paris in December
Explore the Christmas Markets
There are over 20 Christmas markets dotted around the city with the best in the most amazing locations. Expect small alpine chalets selling chocolate chaud, hot wine and artisan gifts.
The biggest is the Marché de Nöel aux Tuileries right next to the Louvre museum. There’s a huge ferris wheel to get a unique view point of the city, food stands selling typical Alsatian cuisine and unique gifts.
Staying elsewhere in the city? There’s some great markets to explore next to the Eiffel Tower and Montmartre.
Read more about the amazing Christmas Markets in Paris in our dedicated guide.
Christmas Day Dinner Cruises
Spending Christmas in Paris? You may find it’s a struggle to find a great restaurant with the right ambiance in the city centre.
Luckily there’s a gourmet Seine cruise on Christmas Day serving up a traditional French 5 course Christmas lunch. Champagne and wine included, it’s an incredible way to see the heart of the city with genuinely good food and wine.
Tables go quickly so be sure to reserve yours in advance. You can book yours here.
Cosy Up in a Traditional Bistro
When the temperatures plummet, there’s nothing better than cosying up in a traditional French bistro with a winter warmer. Luckily French cuisine has plenty of great warming dishes – beef bourguignon, onion soup and of course steak frites.
Discover my guide to the best bistros in Paris to eat the best traditional French food.
Visit the Louvre
December isn’t a popular month for tourists which makes it a great time to explore the city’s fantastic museums.
The Louvre museum is a must visit and December is a fantastic time to visit it. Go mid-week and you’ll practically no queues. Sure there’s always a crowd around the Mona Lisa but you’ll find it to be much relaxing and less manic than going in peak summer.
You can book advanced tickets here and find out more about the incredible museum in my guide to the Louvre.
Go Ice Skating in the Grand Palais
After years of renovation works, the stunning Grand Palais is open again and along with it the Christmas ice rink. The 3,000m2 ice rink is huge and takes the majority of the incredible interior of the Grand Palais.
It’s open to skaters of all levels and is open from 2pm until late. You’ll need to reserve tickets in advance and you can book three time slots – afternoon, late afternoon and evening.
You can find out more and buy tickets here.
How Cold is Paris in December?
In December, Paris experiences a chilly yet enchanting winter atmosphere. Average temperatures range between 3°C (37°F) and 7°C (45°F), with occasional dips below freezing, especially at night.
The city often sees overcast skies, with intermittent rain adding to the crisp air. In my experience (of over 8 years living here) snowfall is rare. It really depends on the year but when it does snow, it really is magical!
I’d recommend plenty of layers, warm coats, and scarves for exploring the city. With the reduced number of tourists, it’s the ideal time (if it’s not raining!) to explore the sights like the Eiffel Tower the Notre Dame cathedral.
Where to Stay In December
If you’re wondering where to stay in Paris in December then it really depends on what you want to do.
Wanting a village like, winter wonderland feel? I’d recommend staying the village of Montmartre. Check out my hotel recommendations for Montmartre.
If shopping is high on your priority list, Le Marais is the area for you. Check out my guide on where to say in the Marais.
Paris has a lot of neighbourhoods and they all have a distantly different feel. My guide to on where to stay in Paris has a more in-depth look at the different areas of Paris.
