visit paris in december

12 Best Things To Do In Paris In December [+ The Weather, Where To Stay & What To Pack]

Want to travel to Paris in December but not sure what to expect? This post will give you all the best practical tips on the weather, where to stay, plus what to do!

Known for its ice skating rinks, glorious Christmas lights, exciting Christmas markets, and so much more, there’s truly nothing better than visiting Paris in December!

You can do so much to make the best of the weeks leading up to Christmas, bring in the new year, or participate in holiday cheer that you’ll be hopping from one place to another.

Disclaimer:  This post might contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) should you choose to sign up for a program or make a purchase using one of our links. It’s okay – We love all of the products we recommend anyway, and you will too! Also, that commission helps us keep this awesome free blog up to date! You can read our  full disclosure here  for more details!

Whether you enjoy a low-key festive season or want to celebrate the end of the year in style with added Parisian charm, visiting Paris in December is bound to be a treat.

Every morning you can wake up and treat yourself to a hot chocolate or a vanilla latte from your favorite local café accompanied by a freshly baked pain au chocolat, and get on with the list of things you’ll have planned to truly soak in the beauty of the city of love in the month of festivities and cheer!

So, keep scrolling to find out how to best enjoy your December in Paris, the top things to do, where to stay, and all the practical tips for visiting the city of love during this time of the year.

Before You Go, Here’s How to Plan Your Visit To Paris: Practical Quick Tips

WHERE TO STAY Best Eiffel Tower Views:  Hôtel Le Walt  (9.0) Luxury stay:  Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel  (8.2) Mid-range stay:  Hôtel Eiffel  (8.7) Budget Stay:  People – Paris Bercy  (8.9) Apartment Rental:  Résidence Charles Floquet  (9.1)  

BEST GUIDED TOURS Louvre Museum guided tour : (4.5/5) Seine River Dinner Cruise : (4.7/5) Montmartre Walking Tour : (4.8/5) Le Marais Walking Food Tour : (4.5/5) Versailles Guided Tour : (4.8/5) Eiffel Tower Guided Tour : (4.4/5)  Private Transfer from CDG Airport to Paris : (4.7/10)

MUST-DO EXPERIENCES HAPPENING NOW IN PARIS Luminiscence at Saint-Eustache Church : A music and lighting show in one of Paris’s most beautiful churches: (4.7/10) Candlelight show : Perfect if you want to be treated to a candlelit music show in a beautiful Parisian venue: (4.8/10) Cabaret at Moulin Rouge : A cabaret in the iconic Moulin Rouge is a must: (4.7/10)

Psst… Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more. If you’re considering travel insurance for your trip, check out World Nomads .

Weather in Paris in December

The weather in Paris in December is pretty chilly as it is one of the coldest months of the year.

Though you can expect only a handful of snow showers, the sun won’t appear as frequently as it does in autumn; instead, you’ll be faced with more overcast days.

The days are pretty short, with sunlight hours between 8 and 8 and a half hours, (the sun rises at around 8:30 AM and sets at around 4:50 PM), so you can make the most of the daylight and enjoy a cozy night in or party it up under the stars.

Paris in December weather is not everyone’s cup of tea, but the holiday lights and warm festival drinks make it extra magical this time of year! If you can brave the cold, you can be assured of an amazing time.

Paris Temperature in December

To understand more about the weather to be best prepped and dressed, here are specifics about the temperature in Paris in December.

• Paris temperature in December: 7.5°C (46°F) High and 3.4ºC (38ºF) Low with an average of 5ºC (41ºF)
• Average humidity in Paris in December: 86%
• Average days of rainfall in Paris in December: 14.3 days
• Average days of snowfall in December in Paris: 1.8 days

Where to Stay in Paris in December

If you’re searching for accommodation options for when you visit Paris in December, keep reading to find excellent options (ranging from economical to luxury 5-star hotels) to stay in!

Budget Accommodation

The People Hostel – Paris Bercy: A visit to Paris can definitely get heavy on the pocket, especially if you plan to tour all the top museums and landmarks, so staying in a wallet-friendly hostel like this one is a great way to save up since you’re going to be out exploring most of the time anyway! The People Hostel – Paris Bercy offers family rooms, a terrace, a shared kitchen, and other amenities, along with the option to interact with other travelers easily.

>>>   Check rates and availability on Booking.com   <<<

Mid-range Accommodation

Derby Alma: Located in the center of the city within proximity of iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Champs-Élysées, Derby Alma is a contemporary hotel equipped with anything you’d need. With its on-site bar, perfect location, accommodating staff, and more, Derby Alma is the ideal place to stay during your visit to the city if you’re on a mid-range budget.

Luxury Accommodation

Mandarin Oriental Paris: If you’re searching for a hotel where you’ll be treated like a royal, look no further than Mandarin Oriental Paris . Set in the city’s heart in a 1930s palace building juxtaposed with minimalist decor, this hotel is fully-equipped with a landscaped garden, gourmet restaurant, fancy spa, and more. Though pricey, it’s worth it for a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Paris!

Apartment rental/Airbnb

Citadines Trocadéro Paris: If you’d rather stay in an apartment rental during your stay in the city, you’ll also be able to find a plethora of options to choose from, like this one . Located right next to the Trocadéro Metro Station, which will easily connect you with the rest of the city, the Citadines Trocadéro Paris is the ideal apartment to stay at. You’ll have an air-conditioned apartment with a kitchen, laundry, on-site car park, and be within walking distance from top attractions.

These are some of my recommendations but if you can’t see what you like, you can check out my complete list of  Paris hotels with Eiffel Tower views  or these  hotels near the Louvre Museum  if you prefer to stay near Mona Lisa.

But if you’d rather sleep in an apartment to have access to a kitchen and have a homey feel, here is my list of  apartment rentals with views of the Eiffel Tower , these  budget Paris apartment rentals  if you’re on a budget, or these  luxury vacation apartment rentals  if you’re all about luxury.

Now that you know the  practical tips for visiting Paris , here are the best things to do in Paris in December that you shouldn’t miss out on.

12 Best Things to do in Paris in December

In no particular order, here are the fun things to do in December in Paris.

1. Admire the Christmas Window displays at Departmental Stores

With December comes the well-loved Christmas time , and that means that on top of the million lights that adorn the city at night throughout the year, you’ll also be greeted with exquisite Christmas window displays!

Mainly, you’ll find spectacular displays at the departmental stores at Boulevard Haussmann, especially the animated graphics and shows at Galleries Lafayette and Printemps Haussmann .

You can also admire well-designed and decorated window displays in other department stores like BHV MARAIS , and  Bon Marché Rive Gauche each unique and different from the next.

And while you go window licking ( read window shopping) and admire the stunning window displays at Galleries Lafayette , be sure to step inside to glance at the most beautiful and biggest Christmas tree in Paris.

Related post: Best Thing to do in Paris at Christmas

2. Watch an opera performance

Sometimes the chilly weather in the city can be a bit much to bear, especially if it’s rainy and glum, so one of the top things to do in Paris in December is to book yourself a seat at an opera performance.

Paris, renowned globally for its lavish opera house and ballet performances has been the land of art and culture for centuries, making a performance at the opulent, well-designed, and luxurious Palais Garnier worthwhile.

Besides watching excellent performances, you can also book this guided tour of the Palais itself to learn more about its history, architecture, and design.

However, if you’d rather visit on your own, you can still book this self-guided tour to take in all the magnificent beauty the Opera harbors.

Related post: The Ultimate Paris bucket list

3. Spend an evening at Atelier des Lumières

Located in the 11th Arrondissement, Atelier des Lumières is one of the up-and-coming places for tourists in the city.

The digital art exhibition has become a new spot for art lovers and technology aficionados to converge their interests in this ample space to observe art in a new form.

The museum has featured some world-renowned works of greats like Vincent Van Gogh , Salvador Dalí , Monet , and more.

The exhibitions keep changing every quarter, so be sure to check this website to know what they’re displaying before you make your trip.

If you’re an art and tech lover, Atelier des Lumières is definitely one of the must-visit museums in Paris .

You can also book your ticket to Atelier des Lumières from here to watch the current exhibitions.

4. Splurge on a fine-dining meal with a view

Among its famous historical landmarks, expansive gardens, and quaint bakeries from where the scent of freshly baked French pastries escapes onto the streets, Paris is also well-known for its plethora of fine dining joints.

French culture, art, and food all scream exquisite, so there’s nothing quite like a fine dining meal in Paris, preferably with a view!

If you happen to be visiting in December and wish to get away from the cold in the thick of the night, splurging on a once-in-a-lifetime meal at a fancy restaurant is entirely worth it.

You can choose from top-rated places like Les Ombres , Jules Verne , Café de l’Homme , Terrass Hotel restaurant , Maison Blanche , or any of these Paris restaurants with Eiffel Tower views , where you can gorge on signature French dishes accompanied by specialty wine and end the night with the fanciest dessert on the menu.

Or better yet, book this 3-course dinner Seine cruise to not only enjoy a scrumptious meal but also enjoy the amazing views of Paris from the Seine.

Psst… If you’d rather go on a food tour to taste various foods in Paris than fine dining, then I recommend going for this Paris-guided food tour in Le Marais .

5. Be Blown Away at the Festival of Lights at Jardin des Plantes

Photo by Andy Hammond / Flickr

If you’re thinking about what to do in Paris in December, one of the attractions you can’t miss out on is the marvelous Festival of Lights that happens annually at the expansive Jardin des Plantes.

Located in the 5th Arrondissement, this festival illuminates the park’s area and beyond with its impeccably-designed lanterns based on a different theme every year, taking you on a journey of evolution through time with a focus on endangered species and the amazing flora and fauna.

As you soak in the beautiful lights, you can admire the vast garden at this iconic festival, a perfect blend of art, poetry, and science.

Not only are the exhibits so fun to look at, but each theme aims to raise awareness about a particular issue that plagues the world, making it even better than just a regular exhibition.

A coveted spot to visit during the long winter nights in Paris, book your tickets online in advance to avoid queuing for long in the cold.

6. Go ice skating in the city

Out of the several things to do in December in Paris, ice skating is a must-do! Several ice rinks come up across different parts of the city, each with something different to offer.

Some notable rinks include Patinoire Sonja Henie , where you’ll be able to enjoy weekend nights filled with top pop hits and neon lights, and the La Défense Rooftop , which offers stunning views of the city .

The most coveted ice skating spot is located on the first level of the Eiffel Tower, where you can skate with a view and sip on some delicious hot chocolate to warm up from the cold!

Other ice rinks worth checking out include; the Galeries Lafayette Rooftop ice rink and Tuileries gardens ice rink.

Related post: Best Things to do in Paris in January

7. Shop around at a Christmas market

Some of the top ​​places to visit in Paris in December are its beautiful Christmas markets.

During the festive season which is the jewel of the city and country, several Christmas markets come up in the weeks leading up to Christmas with all showcasing a charm of their own.

While the most well-known markets actually take place a short trip away from the city, in Alsace (especially in Strasbourg), a stroll through Paris’ Christmas markets is equally rewarding.

Paris’ largest and most popular Christmas market is Tuileries Garden Christmas market offering carnivals, countless food stalls, an ice rink, and a huge Ferris wheel.

Other smaller markets also come up near famous Parisian landmarks , and some notable ones you can visit include; Montmartre Christmas Market , Eiffel Tower Christmas Market at Champs de Mars, Notre-Dame Christmas Market located at Square Viviani, Hôtel de Ville Christmas market , Saint-Germain-des-Prés Christmas Market , and many more.

8. Witness the winter charm at Disneyland Paris

Photo by Found Around Disney /Flickr

The hustle and bustle of the city can indeed be exhausting, so a great way to escape that just for a day or two is by taking a day trip outside Paris to any of the attractions, a short train ride from the city.

One of those landmarks is Disneyland Paris , the most magical place on earth, made even more magical with its Christmas lights, holiday cheer, and winter charm.

Besides spending time on iconic Disneyland Paris rides and witnessing stellar performances, you’ll also get to sing Christmas carols and festive songs with your favorite Disney characters.

A trip enjoyable for both kids, and adults, and in between, the food, festivity, and charm of Disneyland is a great way to spend a day outside the city in December!

And as you plan your Disney trip, make sure that you buy this 1-day Disney entry ticket in advance if you plan to spend just a day there, but if you want to fully enjoy what this magical place offers, then I recommend booking this multi-day entrance ticket to Disneyland which gives you access to the park for more than one day.

But if you’d rather go camping, you can check out these campsites near Disneyland Paris .

Related post: Best Cities Near Paris to Visit

9. Take a tour of The Parisian churches

On the list of the top things to do in Paris in December, one of the unique and distinctive activities is to tour some of the beautiful churches in the city and even get a chance to attend a Christmas concert or two.

Some of the top Parisian churches to visit include Sainte-Chapelle which is a gorgeous blend of gothic and renaissance style architecture, Église Saint-Séverin , located in the Latin quarter and dates back to the 11th century, Madeleine church in the 8th arrondissement, Sacre Coeur basilica on a hill in Montmartre and more.

Besides the impressive architectural beauty, during December especially the weeks leading up to Christmas, some of these churches organize musical concerts and nativity scenes worth seeing.

Of course, just visiting the churches and the nativity scenes is free but if you want to attend a Christmas concert, you’ll have to buy a ticket and book a bit in advance.

10. Watch the Christmas lights

The city of Paris is all decked out in December to celebrate Christmas and the end of the year.

A special time across the world, Paris’ long winter nights are illuminated by the excellent light displays across the city, especially on famous historical landmarks that go all out to bring festive cheer.

One of the top places to watch the Christmas lights is the luxurious shopping arena and the most famous Parisian street in the city’s heart, Champs-Élysées !

The avenue is adorned with up to a million lights to light up the overcast winter nights, making a late evening or post-dinner walk through this street from Arc de Triomphe to Place de la Concorde, one of the most loved activities during this time of year.

You can also pick up a box of French macarons from the aesthetic Ladurée on the street to carry back to your hotel!

Besides Champs-Élysées , other places to admire the beautiful Christmas lights include Bercy village , Avenue Montaigne , Place Vendôme , Le Village Royal , and many others.

11. Bring in the new year in style

If you’re in Paris during new years eve, you must celebrate it with pomp-and-show because when else will you be in the city of love with your partner, friends, or family, bringing in the new year?

There’s so much going on across the city that you can choose from depending on whether you’d like to party it up with strangers turned friends at some of Paris’ best parties, dine at an exclusive Parisian restaurant, or walk the streets under the Christmas lights and count down until the clock hits 12 by the Seine while popping some champagne, the options are endless.

While all the above activities are fun, the cherry on top is watching fireworks above the Eiffel Tower as it clocks midnight!

From the lights to the sounds, everything about watching fireworks at the magnificent Eiffel Tower is breathtaking.

12. Warm up With hot chocolate or vin-chaud at your favorite cafe

Since the weather will certainly be chilly, it’s important to cozy yourself up, and one of the best ways to do so while exploring the city is by drinking hot chocolate or the delicious vin-chaud (hot mulled wine primarily found in local Christmas markets or cafés and bars in the winter ).

There are so many cute Parisian cafés spread across the entire city, ranging from petit family-run cafes that serve self-roasted beans to large world-renowned joints like café de Flore famous for its hot chocolate topped with latte art, Angelina Paris known for serving the best hot chocolate in the city, and Maison Sauvage in Saint-Germain-des-Prés for Vin Chaud.

Related post: Best Coffee Shops in Paris

What To Wear In Paris In December + What To Pack

When it comes to what to wear in Paris in winter , the rule of thumb is layering, and below are some of the things you should wear to stay warm.

Beanie: This beanie is not only cute but it’s also very warm.

Scarf:  One of the essential items to wear in winter is a scarf. Besides keeping warm, it will accentuate your winter attire and also make you come close to wearing like a Parisian. This is the scarf I particularly like .

Winter coat:  You can’t visit Paris in winter and not take a winter coat. I like this hooded winter coat as it’s very warm and it’s dark colored so you can wear it with all kinds of clothes.

Fleece/ sweater: As a middle layer, I recommend either taking this warm fleece or this really cute and warm sweater . But regardless of what you take, you can be assured of staying warm.

Thermals: While you can wear layers on the top, sometimes it’s hard to layer the bottom but it doesn’t mean that you have to freeze your legs to death. Not when you can purchase this pair of warm thermals .

Long-sleeved merino wool top: For your base layer, nothing beats this long-sleeved merino wool top . It is soft, warm, and above all breathable. With those qualities, it’s not surprising that it comes with a bigger price tag, so if you’d rather have something budget-friendly, then you can opt for this long-sleeved warm turtleneck top .

Warm Touch-screen sensitive gloves: You’ll need a pair of warm gloves but not just any pair. Take these ones as they’re touch-sensitive meaning that you can still wear them even when you’re using your phone.

Woolen socks: Take woolen socks like these ones so that they not only keep your feet warm but also dry.

A pair of Boots:  I like  these boots ! They’re warm and stylish.

Umbrella: It is bound to rain in Paris in December whether you like it or not, so you’d rather be prepared by taking this windproof travel umbrella .

Power bank: The cold drains battery like no other and that’s why you need to pack this portable power bank to keep charging on the go.

Universal Travel Adapter :  Instead of taking the European travel adapter , I recommend taking this universal travel adapter so that you don’t keep buying a new one every time you travel to a new country.

On top of these, you can check out my complete list of what to pack for Paris in winter to get an idea of what to take.

FAQS About Visiting Paris In December

Is December a good time to go to Paris?

December is definitely a good time to go to Paris! The city is lit up more than ever, with Christmas markets everywhere and the Christmas vibe filling the air. Paris is a dream during this time of the year. The only downside is that it is cold but if you dress well, you should be able to enjoy Paris this time of the year.

Is Paris too cold in December?

Yes, Paris is cold in December! The average temperature is about 5ºC (41ºF) with very little chance of any sun but it can easily drop to zero at night.

What does Paris look like in December?

Gloomy, cloudy, cold, and rainy days with a lot of Christmas cheer! This is what you should expect Paris in December to look like.

What should I wear in Paris in December?

As I mentioned above, dressing for this time of the year is about layering. If I am to give you a summary, you should wear a winter coat , thermals, scarf , fleece, merino wool long-sleeved top , warm woolen socks, beanie , winter boots, touch-sensitive gloves , and more.

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to do in Paris in December

Whether you’re interested in quaint Christmas markets, musical concerts, or cozy meals by the Seine, there’s so much to do in Paris in December that you’ll fall even more in love with the city.

As long as you make sure you’re well-prepared for the cold weather and make the most of every daytime minute, a trip to the city of lights (especially when it’s covered in Christmas lights) in the last month of the year is bound to be one for the books!

NEVER TRAVEL TO PARIS WITHOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE One of the biggest mistakes you’ll ever make when planning a trip to Paris is to forego Travel Insurance ! You might think that it’s expensive, but when you think of how much it will save you when you lose your valuables or even get sick, then you’ll know that it’s NOT that expensive! Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more. If you’re considering travel insurance for your trip, check out World Nomads .

Most posts to inspire you to visit Paris

• Fun things to do in Paris in January
• Best Things to do in Paris in February
• How to spend a weekend in Paris
• Best things to do in Paris
• Most romantic things to do in Paris
• Interesting facts about Paris
• Best books about Paris you should read
• Places to get the best views of Paris

Was this post on the best things to do in December in Paris helpful? Then please consider sharing it with others!

Sharing is caring!

Esther is the face and voice behind Dreams in Paris! She has always been obsessed with Paris even before she moved there. She has lived in Paris for a couple of years, and that obsession has not changed! That love for Paris, plus her passion for writing led to the birth of Dreams in Paris! She now shares all the practical tips and guides she’s picked along the way to help you plan a memorable trip to the city of love! You can learn more about her here !

Similar Posts

16 Best Things To Do In Saint-Germain-Des-Prés, Paris (+ Where To Stay & Eat)

Want to explore Saint-Germain-des-Prés but not sure where to start? This article will show you all the best things to do in Saint-Germain-des-Prés plus where to stay and eat for a fun trip! Located in the 6th arrondissement, Saint-Germain-des-Prés is one of…

Luxembourg Gardens in Paris: 14 Things To Do (+ History & Practical Tips)

Planning to visit the Luxembourg Gardens in Paris? This article will show you everything you need to know from its history and what to do to practical tips! Nestled in the heart of Paris’s Left Bank between the Latin Quarter…

Weekend in Paris: The Perfect 2-Day Paris Weekend Itinerary In 2024

Are you planning to spend a weekend in Paris but not sure what to do? This Paris weekend itinerary will guide you on the best places and things to do in Paris in 2 days. There is no doubt that…

Paris Photo Spots: 30 Most Instagrammable Places in Paris You’ll Love

Want to take some stunning photos while in the city of love? This post will show you all the most Instagrammable places in Paris! Paris is truly one of the most beautiful cities in Europe! Every corner you turn, there…

15 Best Things To Do In The 8th Arrondissement Of Paris (+Where To Stay & Eat)

Want to explore the 8th arrondissement of Paris? This post will show you all the fun things to do, and where to stay and eat to get a deeper insight into this district! Regarded by many as one of the chicest districts…

18 Most Famous Landmarks in Paris You Must Visit

Planning to travel to the French capital and you’re looking for the most famous landmarks in Paris to visit? From iconic structures to historical buildings, you’ll find them all here! The city of love has so many things to offer….

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters

December in Paris: Weather, What to Pack and What to See

Atlantide Phototravel/Getty Images

In December, Paris bursts out of its sleepy autumn quiet and lights up, literally and figuratively. It's known year-round as the city of light, but in the final month, one could say that it truly lives up to the nickname. 

With all its good cheer, Paris in December is nonetheless fairly relaxed, making the month an ideal time to take advantage of the city's many  iconic sights and attractions . Take your time exploring museums, sipping cinnamon-infused hot wine, warming your hands and insides with some thick, gooey hot chocolate, or attending a special holiday concert. Have a real retreat from the holiday madness back home and try taking Paris in more slowly, "frame by frame".

Because of the seasonal rush and a corresponding spike in fares, travel to Paris in December can be costly, so make sure to reserve your plane or train tickets well in advance. Keep reading to learn how to enjoy this special time in the French capital at its festive best, whether you're traveling as a couple, a family, or even solo.

Paris Weather in December

December in the French capital is generally cold, and often rainy or icy. Temperatures often approach zero and sometimes descend below freezing.

Snow is rare, however. And when it does come, it usually melts soon after hitting the ground, often turning into a sludgy slush that can be both irritating and dangerous to navigate without good traction on your shoes. Wind chill can make cold seem even more biting.

Average Temperatures and Rainfall:

• Minimum temperature:  3 degrees C (37.4 degrees F)
• Maximum temperature:  7 degrees C (44.6 degrees F)
• Average temperature:   4 degrees C (39.2 degrees F)
• Average rainfall:   49 millimeters (1.9 inches)

What to Pack

• Make sure to stock your suitcase  with warm cotton or wool sweaters, scarves, coats and thick socks. Bring at least one or two warm turtlenecks, and line your bags with clothes that are easy to layer.
• A sturdy umbrella is a must , as flimsier ones often won't withstand sudden downpours or gusts of wind. You may also want to pack a windbreaker with a hood that stays in place.
• Bring at least two pairs of shoes , both waterproof. One pair should provide good traction in case of snow or ice. Heels should be reserved for indoor events as the streets can be slick or icy. If your feet get cold easily, bring a pair of comfortable waterproof boots.
• A pair of light waterproof gloves and a hat  can make walking around more comfortable, but you won't need anything approaching snow or ski gear. Places like New York and Chicago get much colder in the winter.
• Toting around a small thermos  for hot drinks can be a good way to keep motivated in the  Parisian winter  wonderland.
• Pack a good camera with a decent low-light setting so you can take some memorable shots of the festive holiday lights and decorations around town.

One more word of advice on packing:  since this is shopping and winter sales season , you may want to think about packing as lightly as you can to reserve space in your suitcase for holiday delicacies or gifts you plan to bring back home. Even if you don't have any specific plans to shop, the combination of markets peddling enticing holiday treats and the lure of gorgeously decorated shop windows may make you change your mind. Having some extra space for holiday goodies is always wise. 

December Events in Paris

There's a wealth of things to do this month, including festive seasonal events that the whole family will love.

• See holiday lights and decorations: Otherwise-bare trees lining the Champs-Elysées are artfully strung with garlands of shimmering light, and many other places around the city are decorated in the same festive, and decidedly elegant, way. See our full guide to Christmas lights and festive window displays for more information.
• Go ice-skating: If you have kids in tow, they're in for a real treat:  Ice-skating rinks are set up   at several locations around the city, and "Santa's villages" complete with toboggans and snow are often on the menu.
• Stroll through a festive Christmas market: Meanwhile, every year without fail  Christmas markets  spring up all around the city, with their warm, wood-roofed "chalets,"  vin chaud  (hot wine), enchanting decorations, artisanal gifts and gourmet treats. Chanukah celebrations like menorah lightings add to Paris' holiday-season charm.
• Shop for unique holiday gifts. Why go for predictable presents when you can find special items that are totally memorable and culturally authentic? See more in our complete guide to hunting for unique gifts in Paris.
• Book a festive holiday meal. Whether you're looking to book a Christmas-day lunch or special dinner for Hanukkah or pre-Christmas, many restaurants offer special holiday lunch and dinner menus. See more in our full guide to restaurants open during the Christmas season in Paris.
• Celebrate New Year's Eve. Bring in the new year in Parisian-style by learning local French traditions and finding the perfect spots around town to say your " auld lang syne ." See more in our complete guide to celebrating New Year in the capital.

December Travel Tips

There are a few things you can do to ensure your trip is a stress-free and memorable one. These include the following:

Book hotels, flights, restaurants and tickets for local attractions well in advance . This is a popular time of year, and conditions can be quite crowded. Avoid disappointment by making reservations several months ahead of time, where possible.

Many places are closed on Christmas eve and Day and on New Year's Day. If you're hankering to visit a particular attraction, site or restaurant on your December getaway, check that they're open if you're interesting in dropping in on bank holidays. Otherwise, you may find yourself disappointed.

Try visiting Christmas markets, department stores and other festive spots during weekday mornings to beat the crowds. Evenings and weekends tend to attract very large crowds.

For more information on planning your trip at year-end, see our complete guide to when to visit Paris, season by season.

Related Articles

More related articles.

What's On in Paris

Performances.

• Christmas in Paris
• The Eiffel Tower

Monuments in Paris

Historic churches, history museums.

• The Louvre Museum
• Musée d'Orsay

The Top Paris Museums

Artist museums, more paris museums.

Eiffel Tower Skip-the-Line

The 6 essential day trips, 10 more iconic day tours, what to do in paris, seine river cruises, night in the city of light, paris city tours, walking tours, your own private paris.

• Romantic Dinner Cruises

Where to Stay in Paris

Small hotels of paris, top hotels near…, preferred 5-star hotels, the palaces of paris, affordable hotels.

The Foods of Montmartre

Food & wine activities, the foods of paris, memorable paris dining, best paris restaurants, paris restaurant guide.

• Bistros & Brasseries

Top-Rated Restaurants

• Visit the Champagne Region

Paris Attractions

You ask, we answer, visiting burgundy, paris miscellanea, top ten lists, unusual paris sights, paris gardens & parks, the paris explorer.

• What's On When You're Here

Airports & Transfers

Getting around paris, paris travel guide, paris essentials, train travel, paris arrondissements, the best 2024 holiday experiences in paris – 52 things to do in december.

If you're lucky enough to be in Paris in December, you'll be rewarded with the most magical events and activities of the year. The city sparkles with a million lights, hundreds of decorated trees line the boulevards, and Christmas markets spring up everywhere. Viewing illuminated city from the Seine is magical on a holiday dinner cruise . Noël is a busy time in Paris, so be sure to book your holiday activities as soon as you can — tout de suite !

Things to Do in Paris – December 2024

Esprit de paris – the top experiences, things to do in paris december 2024, bateaux parisiens vip dinner cruise.

Reserve your place for the Noël version of a Seine River dinner cruise. It's a floating extravaganza as you watch the holiday lights of Paris pass by while listening to live music and being served a classic 4-course French meal. Departure time is 8:30 PM. Be sure to choose the Service Premier option, if available, for the best seating, best meal, and the ultimate experience.

Xmas Day & Xmas Eve Gourmet Cruises

Choose between a Christmas Day or Christmas Eve gourmet meal along the magical river Seine. You can opt for a lunch cruise, an early dinner cruise, or a late cruise at 9:15 on either day. This is something you will remember forever, but these sailings WILL sell out, so book right now…

New Years Eve Dinner Cruise & Party

Even better than a normal-night dinner cruise is this five-hour New Years Eve dinner cruise extravaganza with a multi-course gourmet French meal, champagne, and wine. You marvel at the lights of Paris as you dine, and it's all followed by followed by a Paris party to celebrate 2024! Check link to confirm availability, as things tend to change in these unusual times.

Holiday Season Dinner Cruise

Reserve a table for one of the best holiday celebrations in Paris — a dinner cruise along the most magical river in the world. Set sailfor a memorable multi-course dinner with all the French touches, starting with a glass of champagne. This special sailing will sell out soon, so book right now.

Christmas Day Dinner Cruise

Reserve a table for one of the best Christmas celebrations in Paris — a dinner cruise along the most magical river in the world. Set sail on Christmas evening for a memorable multi-course dinner with all the French touches, starting with a glass of champagne. This special sailing will sell out soon, so book right now.

Nureyev's The Nutcracker at Opera Bastille

There's really no more magnificent spectacle than this grand ballet performance at Opera Bastille. Seeing Rudolf Nureyev's masterful version of The Nutcracker is something you will never forget. Performed at Opera Bastille in December, including New Years Day and New Years Eve. If you want to see this, you'd better book right now. Like, right now!

Holiday Classical Music Concerts

The holidays mean candlelit music performances in historic churches, at monuments like La Madeleine, and even on the Eiffel Tower! The premier cultural event of the holiday season is The Nutcracker , performed by the Paris Opera Ballet Company. December classical music concerts & ballets will sell out soon, so our top tip is to book now!

Dinner Cruise by Maxim's of Paris

We love this dinner cruise that joins the river Seine with Maxim's of Paris , the Belle Époque bistro that debuted at the 1900 Paris World Exposition. As you sail the Seine you'll dine on specialties made famous at Maxim's while admiring the lights of the city. With VIP treatment including guaranteed window seating for the best views, you'll be immersed in an unforgettable romantic atmosphere.

Masterpieces of the Louvre Guided Tour

The Louvre is very, very popular, and rightly so, but that means long lineups. Luckily, though, you can skip those line by booking this small-group guided tour, especially designed to feature the most famous works, the ones you must see when in Paris. Don't waste your time or get lost in the mammoth 5,600 sq.m. museum — see it like a Paris VIP.

Eiffel Tower Priority-Access

The Eiffel Tower is, of course, one of the most popular attractions in Paris. Hence, there is always a long line. The only sure way to avoid waiting out in the December cold is to book a skip-the-line tour. On these tours you meet up with your guide at the base of the tower and get escorted past the massive lineup to the priority entrance. After the tour, spend as much extra time as you want on top of Gustave Eiffel's Iron lady.

Bateaux Mouches Evening Dinner Cruise

Here's another way to indulge your inner romantic on a magical evening cruise along the Seine, viewing the City of Lights at its most magical. You dine on a decadent 4-course classic French dinner, accompanied by live music on-board, as you float past illuminated landmarks like the Louvre, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Eiffel Tower. Choose the Excellence option for premier seating and a few extras — like more champagne!

Dinner + Cabaret at the Moulin Rouge

The Moulin Rouge is the most iconic cabaret in the world, and this nighttime extravaganza delivers. Experience the cabaret show where the French can-can premiered. The furious rhythms and scintillating costumes, along with a champagne-fueled dinner, make the Moulin Rouge a must-visit destination. This is an extraordinary evening you will remember for years to come.

Christmas in Paris Private Extravaganza

Experience the festive magic of Paris on a private Christmas tour. Visit the top landmarks at their most merry, including Galeries Lafayette's famed Christmas window display & decorations. There's a ride on the historic Grande Roue de Paris (Ferris Wheel) and a trip to a holiday market with your private guide. You travel by foot and by private vehicle. Hotel pick-up and transportation are included. Did we mention the snacks and the mulled wine?

Paris Christmas Food Walking Tour

Here's an easy & fun way to enjoy all the seasonal goodness that Paris has to offer. Follow your guide to explore Christmas in Paris in its many forms — the decorations & displays at Galeries Lafayette , window displays in the city's Art Nouveau shops & boutiques, in and out of quaint food and tableware shops, and finishing up at a traditional Parisian win bar for champagne and foie gras. Bonnes Fêtes !

An Evening at Paradis Latin

The oldest cabaret in the Paris doesn't have a red windmill, but is located on the other side of the river, in the Latin Quarter. Some of the best nighttime entertainment in Paris is to be found in a splendorous and slightly risqué revue. Combine the show with a dinner menu from Michelin-starred Guy Savoy and you'll delight all your senses during a memorable evening.

Musée d'Orsay Impressionism Tour

Don't miss the world's greatest collection of Impressionist works by Van Gogh, Monet, Manet, and Renoir. At Musée d'Orsay the lines are always long, so the best way to see the art is on this priority-access tour, led by an art expert guide. The small-group size also ensures personal attention. After the tour finishes, you're free to spend as much time as you want perusing the masterpieces.

Paris in One Day

That's right, do Paris in one day! This tour packs a wallop with a combination of Louvre museum tour, lunch on the Eiffel Tower, and a cruise along the city's famous river. A table has been reserved for you at the Tower, where you dine overlooking the sights of Paris. Then, hop on a boat at the banks of the Seine River to see the best of Paris landmarks, riverside. You're not done yet! Visit the Louvre for a guided tour of the world's most famous museum. Whew!

Night Bike Ride + River Cruise

Get out at night in the City of Light . A December bike ride in Paris is not only refreshing (bracing, some say!), it's memorable. Following your expert guide, cycle around the ancient and modern streets of the city, visiting all the iconic sites, like the the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Champs Elysées. With Paris lit up for the holiday season, December may be the best month to be out on a bike.

Private Airport Transfers

It's a great feeling landing in Paris and knowing what's going to happen. That's why we always pre-arrange transportation from the airport into central Paris. There are shuttles and taxis, of course, but our favorite way is to have a luxurious vehicle and driver waiting at our arrival to whisk us directly to our hotel. There's something magical about starting your trip to Paris with a touch of comfort.

The Best Latin Quarter Hotels

The Left Bank is pretty much everyone's favorite part of Paris. It turns out that this historic and charming quartier is also home to some of our favorite hotels in the city. And it's right in the center of things, with so much in easy walking distance. Discover the very best hotels on the Left Bank, including our #1 top hotel pick in all of Paris.

The Wonders of Versailles

Best of versailles + marie antoinette's estate.

The day starts with your driver whisking you from Paris to the royal estate, where priority access awaits. You head directly inside to experience the grandeur of the chateau. This guided tour includes visits to the state apartments, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Queen's Chambers. Afterwards, stroll through the stunning gardens until it's time to visit the Grand Trianon and Marie Antoinette's fantasy farm. The small-group size ensures individual attention.

Half-Day Versailles with Priority Access

If you don't have a full day to devote to Versailles, we also recommend this half-day tour that includes priority access. You'll breeze by the long lines to experience the grandeur of Louis XIV, The Sun King. This small-group activity is led by an expert guide and includes transportation from central Paris. If you prefer (as we do) you can opt for a private tour, for just you and your group.

Delectable Food & Wine Experiences

Cheese & wine tasting in a paris cheese cellar.

Under the guidance of a master affineur (an expert in the art of cheese aging) you descend into the cheese cellar of a fromagerie in the Marais. Here you learn all about this culinary art while you sample seven classic French cheeses, along with wines — discovering how cheese became one of the most revered foods of France. The small group is limited to 10 to ensure there's more cheese for you.

Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Lunch

It's an Insiders secret that the best place to see the dazzling landmarks of Paris is on a boat, cruising along the Seine, sipping champagne while enjoying a leisurely classic 3-course French meal. The menu is a la carte , with wine & champagne compris (included). We highly recommend the Premier Service option, if available, to guarantee you a private window seat and a better menu.

A Taste of Montmartre Food & Wine Tour

Montmartre, the Paris hilltop neighborhood that once was a village, retains some of that village feel. On this fun walking tour a food-expert guide takes you to the best of the quartier's food shops where you sample crusty baguettes, tender crepes, cured speciality sausages and a glass or two of wine at the many charming wine bars along the route. As you taste your way around the neighborhood you'll also learn about hidden & artistic landmarks of Montmartre.

Saint-Germain Chocolate & Pastry Walking Tour

In Paris, chocolate is a major food group. At least that how it seems, what with over 200 speciality (and amazing) chocolatiers . On this tour (our readers' fave food activity) you walk from chocolate shop to pastry shop to chocolate shop in an historic district of Paris and sample all along the route. On a small group tour like this you get hands-on attention at a relaxed pace.

Wine Tasting in the Heart of Paris

Sign up for a 2-hour in-depth tasting — that allows enough time to explore all the best wine regions of France, including Champagne. In this informal & informative wine tasting a professional French sommelier pours wine from the regions while giving an in-depth explanation of each. It takes place in a charming, centrally-located wine cellar. Available Christmas Eve & New Years Eve.

Dine on the Eiffel Tower

It's difficult to imagine a better place to celebrate Christmas in Paris than on the Eiffel Tower. Rise 200 feet above the city lights to restaurant Madame Brasserie for a seasonal meal with all of Paris visible beneath you. Select the Menu Grande Dame – Paris View option for the best views.

Champagne Cruise Along the Seine

What could be better than a relaxed, champagne-fueled boat ride down the most beautiful river in the world? Well, what about having priority seating at the front of the boat? How about a French sommelier to guide you through a flight of three different types of champagne? Glide past the sights while sipping bubbly and discovering that the best way to see the City of Lights is on a bateau .

The Food & Wine of the Marais

Everyone loves this food tour through one of the oldest quartiers of Paris. Start at the oldest food market in the city, and then follow your food-expert guide through the historic Marais neighborhood to visit the top food & wine shops, tasting the best of French foods — cheese, charcuterie, baguettes, chocolate, and wine. Highly recommended.

Gourmet Holiday Food Tour

You start your culinary afternoon on the historic Left Bank, a gourmet haven. At a traditional fromagerie you learn about French cheeses while you sample, sample, sample. Next up are freshly baked baguettes followed by French wine. Don't forget the foie gras! And, don't worry, any calories you consume are going to be burned off by the walk! The Christmas version of this popular tour is not to be missed.

Learn to Make Croissants with a Pastry Chef

Flaky, crusty, tender croissants are an emblem of Paris boulangeries. In this small-group pastry class you'll learn from a trained French chef how to mix, roll, and prepare croissants and pains au chocolat from scratch. Imagine how impressed your friends back home will be when you whip up your batch of French pastries!

Go Deeper Into France On Day Trips

Spend a day in the champagne region.

A day spent in the Champagne region is certain to be a highlight of your holiday. Starting from your Paris address your driver/guide whisks you off through rolling hills and world-class vineyards to Reims, capital of the Champagne region. After touring this historic area the champagne houses beckon and your sampling of bubbly begins! A classic French 3-course lunch is included on this full-day trip.

Visit the D-Day Beaches of Normandy

Although it took the Allied Forces 70 days to get from the Atlantic shore to Paris, it will only take you a few hours to get from Paris to the historic D-Day beaches of Normandy. Perhaps the most important battle site of World War II, the landing beaches still evoke powerful memories and emotions. Visit the important sites on a small-group trip from Paris in a comfortable Eurovan.

Magnificent Loire Valley Chateaux + Wines

One of the things you don't want to miss when you visit France is the Loire Valley with its magnificent castles. It's an easy day trip from Paris and this particular tour is our favorite. Not only do you visit 3 or 4 of the most spectacular chateaux, you also taste the wines of the best producers in the Loire Valley. The semi-private activity includes transportation from central Paris in a luxurious Eurovan.

VIP Visit to Mont Saint-Michel

Take a day to visit this fairytale island just off the Normandy coast. On this private tour you explore the Benedictine abbey of Mont St-Michel that becomes separated from the mainland during high tide. Wander along the narrow streets, visit the shops and the abbey's ramparts. Everything is included, even pick-up at your hotel, so no need to worry about anything.

What's On At The Museums

Louvre & orsay museums skip-the-line tour.

Yes, you can! You'll cover a lot of art history in a few short hours — the only thing you have to do is relax and enjoy the masterpieces. No need to worry about buying tickets or standing in line. This combination museum tour takes you to the best at the Louvre and the d'Orsay museum with a knowledgeable guide. Group size is limited to 8.

Harriet Backer – The Music of Color

This is the first retrospective of Harriet Backer's(1845-1932) work in France. Although little is known about her outside her native Norway, Backer was the most renowned woman artist of the late 19th century. You will fall in love with her tender portraits of rural Norwegian life. • Musée d'Orsay • Ends January 12, 2025 • Information …

La Collection – Revoir Picasso

In 2014 Pablo Picasso's most important public collection was permanently installed in the lavish setting of the Hôtel Salé, a mansion in the Marais. A decade later, the museum pays homage with a three-year retrospective starting with a tribute to Françoise Gilot. Beyond her famous book — Living with Picasso , published in 1965 — Gilot's own artistic career spanned from Réalités Nouvelles to her large compositions of the "emblematic paintings" of the 1980s.

• Musée Picasso
• To March 12, 2027
• Information …

Figures of the Fool

This ambitious exhibition focuses on the medieval figure of the fool through 300 works of art — from ivories, boxes, small bronzes, medals, drawings, prints to paintings and tapestries.

• Louvre Museum
• Ends February 3, 2025

A New Look at Watteau's Pierrot

Formerly known as Gilles , Watteau's Pierrot is one of the most famous masterpieces in the Louvre's collection. Discovered by the Director of the Louvre during the time of Napoleon, it garnered praise from writers and art historians for its mischievous and melancholy mood. It will be seen for first time since undergoing extensive restoration.

Retracing 40 years of the wacky world of Surrealism, this touring exhibition celebrating the global spread of this 20th-century art movement opens Paris before moving on to Madrid, Hamburg and Philadelphia.

• Centre Pompidou
• Ends January 13, 2025

The Top Events In Paris

Christmas markets.

From the middle of November to early January bundle up warm and set out on the streets of Paris to learn how the French celebrate Christmas. Seasonal markets are set up up in many quartiers of the city. These temporary cabin villages are where tout les Parisiens shop for seasonal specialties, decorations, and Christmas crafts. During this festive time of year you will find Noël markets throughout the city.

Notre Dame Christmas Market 2024

It's a Christmas miracle! Paris' favorite Marché a Noël at Notre Dame Cathedral is back, but just across the river in Square Viviani. Marvel at oldest tree in Paris (at 400 years) and sample regional specialties like macaroons, gingerbread, foie gras, hot pretzels, sausages, local cheese, roasted chestnuts, mulled wine and chocolat chaud. • Square René Viviani, 5th Arrondissement • Information …

Christmas Lights on Champs Elysées

Paris lights up for the holidays, but the most famous light show is on Champs Elysées. If you're lucky enough to be in Paris in mid November you can watch the Christmas lights be turned on by celebrities and French dignitaries. (We're still waiting to be invited to throw the switch!) • Avenue des Champs Elysées • November 15 to January 6 • Information …

Helene Segara Symphonique

Y ou may have heard Helene Segara in duet with Andrea Bocelli or as Esméralda in the musical Notre-Dame de Paris but now it's your chance to see the star of the French television show, France Has Incredible Talent at this classic Parisian concert hall. • Salle Pleyel • December 21, 2024 • Information …

Paris Planning Guides

Copyright © 2010-2024 Voconces Culinary Ltd, all rights reserved. Original photos © Mark Craft, all rights reserved.

• • September 2024 in Paris…
• • October 2024 in Paris…
• • November 2024 in Paris…
• • December 2024 in Paris…
• Christmas in Paris 2024
• Paris Activities Month by Month
• Paris Events Calendar
• Museum Exhibitions Calendar
• Paris Ballet Calendar
• Paris Opera Calendar
• Christmas Day in Paris
• New Years Eve
• New Years Day in Paris
• Easter in Paris
• Valentines Day in Paris
• Bastille Day Celebrations
• Skip-the-Lines at the Eiffel Tower
• Visiting The Eiffel Tower
• Eiffel Tower Information
• See all…
• The Arc de Triomphe
• The Panthéon
• The Bastille
• Notre Dame Cathedral
• La Sainte Chapelle
• Sacre-Coeur Paris
• Chateau de Versailles
• Palais Garnier Opera House
• Hotel de Ville – The City Hall
• Get the Most from Your Visit
• Masterpieces of the Louvre
• Paintings of the Louvre
• Top 10 Van Goghs at d'Orsay
• Musée de l'Orangerie
• Rodin Museum Paris
• Cluny Museum Paris
• Arts et Metiers
• Guimet Asian Arts Museum
• Galliera Fashion Museum
• Versailles the VIP Way
• Versailles History & Highlights
• D-Day Landing Beaches
• Monet's Gardens at Giverny
• Mont Saint-Michel
• Monet + Van Gogh
• VIP Private Day Trips
• 10 Ways to Skip the Lines
• 9 Most Romantic Things to Do
• 5 Top Activities In The Marais
• Lunch & Brunch Cruises
• Cruises with Extras!
• The 6 Best Evenings In Paris
• Moulin Rouge
• Paris at Night
• Hop-on, Open-Top Buses
• The 6 Best City Tours
• Private Tours of Paris
• Champagne & Shows
• Top 10 Walking Tours
• Mysterious Walking Tours
• Top-Rated Hotels in the Marais
• The Best Left Bank Hotels
• 10 Affordable 4-Star Hotels
• See all …
• Latin Quarter Hotels
• Left Bank Hotels
• Top-Rated Montmartre Hotels
• Favorite Designer Hotels
• Shangri-La Paris
• Hotel George V Paris
• The Royal Monceau
• Le Cinq Codet
• Peninsula Hotel Paris
• Hotel Le Burgundy
• Ibis Hotels
• Les Hotels de Paris
• Best Western Hotels
• Saint-Germain-des-Prés
• Top 10 Food Experiences
• Paris Wine Tastings
• Chocolate Tours
• 10 Best Cheese Shops
• The Best Baguette in Paris
• Food Markets of Paris
• Le Jules Verne
• Astrance Paris
• Il Carpaccio
• How to Choose a Restaurant
• The Best Paris Bars
• In the Marais
• On the Left Bank
• Historic Brasseries of Paris
• Michelin 3-Star Restaurants
• 6 Michelin-Star Restaurants
• See All…
• Best Paris Terraces
• Seine Dinner Cruise
• The Top 8 Tourist Attractions
• 5 Paris Itineraries
• Gardens & Parks
• Paris Hotels for Christmas?
• Best Restaurants in the 8th?
• Best Way To Visit Versailles?
• VIP Burgundy Wine Tour
• Burgundy Accommodations
• Napoleon's Paris
• Hemingway's Paris
• Medieval Paris
• 10 Tips For Visiting Paris
• 7 Vestiges of Roman Paris
• 13 Hidden Places In Paris
• Hidden Landmarks
• The Catacombs
• Pere Lachaise Cemetery
• Jardin des Tuileries
• Jardin des Plantes
• Palais Royal
• Rue des Barres in the Marais
• Waterfalls of Paris
• Arcades of Paris
• Airport Transfers
• Paris Airports
• Airport Taxis
• Train Travel From Paris
• Eurostar: London & Paris
• Paris Train Stations
• The Latin Quarter
• Saint-Germain-des-Pres
• Essential Facts for Visitors
• Taxes, Tipping & Etiquette
• What to Wear in Paris
• Maps of Paris
• The Paris Metro
• Paris Metro Tickets
• Paris Taxis
• Seine River Dinner Cruises
• Visiting Versailles
• Essential Day Trips

Home > Paris by Month > Best Things to Do in Paris in December 2024 – Quick Guide by a Local

Best Things to Do in Paris in December 2024 – Quick Guide by a Local

December in paris.

All you need to know and the best things to do in Paris in December 2024.

Are you visiting Paris in December 2024? December is a wonderful time to travel to Paris . The weather is cold and crisp, but the city is in full swing, with busy cafés, beautiful decorations on the streets, and an interesting cultural program for locals and visitors alike. And, of course, Christmas in Paris also means great shopping opportunities and seasonal activities for all the family!

What is Paris like in December? This month has two main parts. While Paris in early December has a more local atmosphere, with locals doing the last Christmas shopping and visiting the recently inaugurated temporary exhibitions, the city becomes a favorite haunt of tourists once you hit Christmas week.

If you plan to visit the French capital during the last month of the year, keep reading for what to do in Paris in December, the main events in Paris December 2024, and my top tips for getting the most out of your trip.

Are You Planning a Trip to Paris Last Minute?

If you are booking a last-minute trip to Paris, I’ve got you covered! Below are our must-guides, top tours, hotels, and more:

» Plan:  Paris Travel Planner ; Paris Arrondissements Guide ; Check out the  best Paris Metro tickets for tourists

» Book your flight tickets with  Omio ; book your train tickets with  Omio

Book your transfer from the airport to the city with Welcome Pickups .

» Where to Stay:  Best Districts to Stay in Paris

• Le Pavillon de la Reine  (historical 5-star hotel in Le Marais)
• Hotel La Comtesse  (mid-range hotel with Eiffel Tower view from all the rooms!)
• Hotel Ducs de Bourgogne (super central 4-star hotel near the Louvre)

» Top-Rated Paris Tours & Tickets:

• Louvre Museum Skip-the-Line Ticket
• Eiffel Tower Summit Access Ticket
• Seine River Night Cruise
• Catacombs Skip-the-line tour with VIP access to restricted areas

Want skip-the-line access at museums & attractions in Paris?  Get your hands on a  Paris Museum Pass !

» Don’t leave without travel insurance!   Safety Wing works well for long and short trips (starting with a minimum of 5 days). SafetyWing covers COVID-19 for new policies purchased, and unplanned quarantine is covered, too.

Table of Contents:

Is Paris Busy in December? Crowds Forecast

Weather in paris in december, what to wear in paris december 2024, best tips for visiting paris in december 2024, best things to do in paris in december 2024 (and paris events december 2024), where to stay in paris in december.

Related content

Is December a good time to visit Paris? The city makes one of the best winter city breaks in Europe , but it’s a bit crowded with people.

Years ago, Paris in early December was usually quiet. However, since most of the Christmas markets decided to open their doors around the end of November, Paris in December is all time jam-packed with people, especially on the weekends.

The beginning of the month is still considered the low season in Paris, with better prices in transportation and accommodation, while Christmas week in Paris is the high season. However, I recommend booking everything well in advance if you want to visit Paris in December.

Update December 2024: With Notre Dame Cathedral reopening on the first weekend of December, there won’t be a low season in December this year.

Below, I list the main Paris attractions for which you will need advance tickets and have added links to my favorite trusted providers for your convenience.

• The Eiffel Tower
• The Louvre Museum
• Versailles Palace
• Orsay Museum
• The Catacombs of Paris

To optimize your time and avoid the longest lines, I recommend visiting temporary exhibitions during office hours when the locals are behind their desks. Book your tickets to temporary exhibitions well in advance.

The same advice applies to your Christmas shopping and the Christmas Markets in Paris: prioritize these activities during office hours and do more touristy things (less sexy for Parisians) on the weekends.

December in Paris is also the month for year-end meetings in bars and restaurants with coworkers, friends, and family. On weekdays (especially Thursdays), bars and restaurants are busy with business meetings while the weekends are dedicated to friends and family.

If you have a specific place in mind for lunch or dinner for your Paris trip, book well in advance.

How is the weather in Paris in December? December is a winter month in the Northern Hemisphere and the Paris weather in December is cold.

If we stick to the statistics, the average temperature in Paris in December is 10C maximum and 5C minimum, with a 15% probability of rainfall.

Does it snow in December in Paris? If a white Christmas is what you are looking for, then Paris won’t fulfill your wish. Snow in Paris in December is rare, with an average of 1.8 snowfall days. And if it does fall, it melts in a matter of minutes, thanks to the city’s “high” temperatures. What you are likely to experience are cloudy days and regular rainfall. 

The Paris weather in December is not ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. If you decide to visit Paris in December, it is always good to have a B plan if it rains.

What to wear in Paris in December? The key to dressing in Paris in the winter is a good, warm coat. Still, it is a good idea to dress in layers because in some places indoors (e.g., inside the Louvre!!) it is too warm and you are likely to be OK with a light sweater.

What to pack for Paris in December 2024? The Paris weather in December calls for good walking shoes, warm socks, scarves, a good warm jacket, and a foldable umbrella. Here’s the ultimate guide to packing for Paris in December  with clothes that are comfortable and stylish. If you need ideas on how to combine things to blend in with locals, check out our Fall /Winter style guides for men and women.

• Paris Style Guide Winter for Women
• Paris Style Guide Winter for Men

Before leaving home for your Paris December trip, it is a good idea to check the weather forecast (temperatures and rainfall) and review your packing list if necessary.

Even though France is a secular Republic, all the Paris offices are closed during Christmas week. That’s when the locals, regardless of their religion, travel to their hometowns to spend some time with their families. If you plan to visit other cities than Paris during your December trip, book your train tickets well in advance .

If you are interested in visiting Alsace’s Christmas markets , book your train tickets and accommodation right now . Usually, it is possible to buy train tickets up to six months in advance. Strasbourg and Colmar are popular Paris getaways among tourists visiting Paris in December.

24th December (Christmas Eve) is when families gather for a pre-Christmas dinner and when many people go to midnight mass. On the 24th of December, shops and tourist attractions usually close earlier. Expect restaurants and night attractions like the Parisian Cabarets to have special programs and menus, and they may require advance booking.

25th December (Christmas Day) is traditionally a day spent at home with the family. Paris looks pretty dead, and some attractions are closed or have different opening times. When planning a trip to Paris at Christmas time, double-check your favorite tourist attractions’ opening times.

31st December (New Year’s Eve) is usually a normal working day for most of the Paris tourist attractions and shops, but perhaps some of them close earlier. Expect restaurants and night attractions like the Parisian Cabarets to have special programs and menus, and they may require advance booking.

Always have a B plan for rainy days in Paris. If you need some ideas, check out our list of fun things to do during a rainy day in Paris .

As I mentioned above, December in Paris is a bit crowded with people. Have a look at this article about ways to avoid crowds in Paris with my best local tips.

A week before the departure, look at my post on Transportation Strikes in Paris , which is always up to date. Just in case . . .

Need travel insurance for France?  Be sure to check rates and coverage with my recommended provider, SafetyWing . SafetyWing works well for long and short trips (starting with a minimum of 5 days). SafetyWing covers COVID-19 for new policies purchased, and unplanned quarantine is covered, too. 

What to do in Paris in December 2024? If you visit Paris for the first time, you may want to tick some of Paris’s top tourist attractions off your bucket list. The itineraries below are thought for people visiting Paris for the first time, and they are planned around the main attractions and the most interesting neighborhoods in Paris:

• 1 day in Paris
• 2 days in Paris
• 3 days in Paris
• 4 days in Paris
• 5 days in Paris
• 6 days in Paris
• 7 days in Paris

If you want to spend Christmas in Paris , check out my dedicated articles, which include all the festive activities and top tips to get the most out of the holiday season. From the Tuileries Garden Christmas Market to the unique Musée des Arts Forains , there are plenty of fun events during the winter holidays in Paris!

I also have an article on what to do in Paris on New Year’s Eve .

NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL WILL REOPEN IN DECEMBER 2024!

After five years of reconstruction work, Notre Dame Cathedral will reopen its doors to the public on 8 December 2024 . Don’t miss one of the most special celebrations in Paris this year, which will be preceeded by the following events:

• TBD November 2024.  The celebrations will start with the return of the statue of Notre Dame, around the end of November, accompanied by a “great popular procession in the streets.”
• 7 December 2024.  An inauguration will take place, with the “awakening of the organ, a liturgical celebration with blessing, a Magnificat or a Te Deum, and then vespers.

TAKE A NIGHT SEINE RIVER CRUISE

Enjoy the Seine River , “Paris’ most beautiful Avenue,” with a  Seine River night cruise . Admire the city, beautifully illuminated with Christmas lights and some of the main Paris tourist attractions, such as the Eiffel Tower ,  Notre Dame,  and  the Invalides . It is difficult not to be in love with a view like this one!

The  Seine River cruises  come with or without dinner, and they are a great way to spend a relaxed night, perhaps with a glass of champagne.

TAKE A PASTRY OR CHOCOLATE TOUR IN PARIS

Food tours are always a good idea in a gourmet city like Paris. Discover the famous food in Paris and some good addresses to eat or buy food while learning about a specific neighborhood.

For December in Paris, the pastry and chocolate walking tours are the best. Learn about the traditional cakes and sweets during Christmas in France and admire the best pastry shops beautifully adorned for the festive season.

The neighborhood of Saint Germain-des-Prés is very reputed for its beautiful pastry shops and chocolate shops, and this Saint Germain Pastry and Chocolate Walking Tour always has great reviews. If you prefer to wander around Le Marais, this free chocolate walking tour (self-guided) is the best.

A NIGHT OF CAN-CAN, FUN, AND BUBBLES IN A PARISIAN CABARET

When it gets dark, cabarets are one of the most popular attractions of Paris at night for visitors, with music, French can-can , and lots of bubbles.

There are many good Parisian cabarets – click here for the ultimate cabarets of Paris guide – and you can watch a cabaret show with or without dinner, but the full experience is more fun!

For Paris December 2024, I recommend booking your cabaret show well in advance, especially if you want to attend a cabaret show during the Christmas week in Paris. The Moulin Rouge is the most popular cabaret show in Paris, but there are many more!

WALK THE COVERED PASSAGES OF PARIS

When the air gets cold and crisp, it is the perfect time to explore Paris’ most beautiful covered passages.

These covered walkways, all bathed in natural light, are architectural gems built in the 18th century, the kind of place to see and be seen while shopping or drinking at a café.

Most of the best passages in Paris are in the most central districts – click here for a quick guide to the Covered Passages . If you know where to look, you will find delightful vintage boutiques, cute cafés, and other curiosity shops perfect for unique Christmas gifts.

VISIT THE CHURCHES OF PARIS

Visiting the churches of Paris is always a good idea, especially in December, when they are beautifully decorated for the Christmas celebrations.

The churches of Paris are always free to visit. They are in all styles, from medieval churches to modern iron and concrete churches.

If you visit Paris before the reopening of Notre Dame , don’t miss other places like the Sacré Coeur – which you can visit during this Montmartre Walking Tour –, the church of Saint Germain des Prés (the oldest), or the church of Saint Étienne du Mont, which features the only jubé (rood screen) in Paris.

EXPLORE THE SQUARES OF PARIS

The city is home to beautiful and elegant squares, great for a stroll, a coffee, or some shopping. The squares of Paris in December are something not to miss, all beautifully illuminated and decorated for the festive season.

The royal squares of Paris (Place Vendôme, Place des Vosges …) are must-visit places, but I recommend going out of the beaten path to see more local life.

FIND YOUR FAVORITE PARISIAN CAFÉ FOR A HOT CHOCOLATE OR VIN-CHAUD

The picturesque Parisian cafés are always a good place for a break during the cold days of December.

The neighborhoods of Le Marais , Saint-Germain-des-Prés , and Montmartre are some good places to find pretty cafés, but there are lovely cafés in all the districts of Paris.

Order a cup of coffee or a steaming cup of hot chocolate and cozy up with a good book, or – for a more festive afternoon –, enjoy a glass of vin chaud (mulled wine) with your group.

VISIT THE CASTLES NEAR PARIS

The French châteaux are always great to visit, but they are especially beautiful with the Christmas decorations.

There are many fairytale castles near Paris to visit, apart from the Château of Versailles . Some of these fantastic French châteaux organize special events for the festive season.

I recommend visiting Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte , which is famous for its candle night evenings (Le Grand Noël).

VISIT THE HAPPIEST PLACE IN FRANCE

A day trip to Disneyland Paris is a wonderful way to get in the mood for the holidays thanks to its special parades and Christmas shows. This year, Christmas in Disneyland Paris lasts two months, from 9 November 2024 to 6 January 2025 ! Immerse yourself in a warm, festive atmosphere at Disneyland Paris, with light shows and streets adorned with Christmas decorations – Click here to buy your Disneyland Paris tickets

TIP: Extend your Disney Christmas experience by spending one night or two at one of the Disneyland hotels . They all have a free shuttle bus to the parks and are specially decorated for the season!

ENJOY THE LIGHT ROUTES AND FESTIVALS OF PARIS

A light festival is a magical event taking place at nightfall, an enchanted stroll in the middle of bright and colorful installations which are often accompanied by music for an even more beautifully immersive experience! The Festival of Lights at Jardin des Plantes is the most famous, but there are many other beautiful light routes and festivals in Paris and its region .

Jardin des Plantes’ Festival of Lights  ( Festival des Lumières  in French) will take place from [TBD] November 2024 to [TBD] January 2025 at the Jardin des Plantes in the 5th Arrondissement. This Paris light show is a mesmerizing experience for all the family, with monumental light structures set in the alleys and pitches of this beautiful garden.

Every year, the Festival of Lights has a different topic, usually aimed at raising awareness about the importance of protecting the endangered species of the planet Earth. The subject for this year is still not known, but I am sure it will steal your heart.

HAVE FUN IN ONE OF THE UNIQUE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES IN PARIS

If you are looking for unique and exciting experiences during your December trip to Paris, consider booking an immersive experience . From light shows to virtual reality, immersive experiences are ideal for this time of the year, especially if you are traveling with your family.

The Atelier des Lumières has been offering immersive digital exhibitions since 2014. The last trend in Paris, however, is the “Aura Invalides,” an extraordinary experience through lights, video mapping, and orchestral music in the very heart of the Dôme des Invalides.

Here is a comprehensive list of the unique immersive experiences in Paris to book in December, once-in-a-lifetime experiences not to be missed this year!

CHECK OUT THE TEMPORARY EXHIBITIONS IN PARIS IN DECEMBER 2024

December in Paris is a great time for museum-going, especially when the weather is awful. If you have already visited Paris in the past, it is worth checking the list of temporary exhibitions in the main museums or art galleries because there are always good surprises.

Paris always has an interesting cultural program for the last month of the year. The list of temporary exhibitions in museums and galleries for Paris in December 2024 is not complete yet (it’s too early for some dates). Keep clicking for the latest updates!

Surrealism – Centre Pompidou , from 4 September 2024 to 13 January 2025

The Egypt of the Pharaohs, from Cheops to Ramses II – Atelier des Lumières , from 9 February 2024 to 5 January 2025

The Orientalists: Ingres, Délacroix, Gérôme… – Atelier des Lumières , from 9 February 2024 to 5 January 2025

Immersive Experience “Aura Invalides” – Musée de l’Armée , from 22 Septembre 2023 to 31 December 2024

Dance – Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie , from 2 July to 31 December 2024

The Art of James Cameron – Cinémathèque Française , from 4 April 2024 to 5 January 2025

Here’s the full list of exhibitions, shows, and concerts for your dates in Paris (use the calendar on the left side to select a date range).

NEED MORE IDEAS FOR DECEMBER IN PARIS?

No problem! For more things to do, check out this post about the best events and festivals in Paris this year. You can also have a look at the articles about November in Paris and January in Paris . Some of the activities proposed in these articles are also good ideas for Paris in December.

As you make your bed, so you lie. Find the right accommodation in Paris – whether it’s a hotel or guesthouse, holiday apartment, or private apartment – I have them all! Book your accommodation by using the map below.

I recommend Booking.com  for booking your hotel in Paris. They have a wide variety of accommodation of all kinds and good rates. In addition, they propose the option to cancel for free, most of the time up to 24 hours.

WAKE UP WITH AN EIFFEL TOWER VIEW

If you have the budget, why not treat yourself to the pleasure of waking up at an amazing hotel with an Eiffel Tower view ? Some of the best hotels in Paris also have awesome views of the Eiffel Tower, which is especially beautiful during its night show! – Check out the best hotels with Eiffel Tower Views

HOTELS AT LE MARAIS

Le Marais is a central neighborhood in the Seine’s Right Bank, perfect to set your base in Paris, especially if you are visiting Paris for the first time. It is beautiful, well connected by the metro, and with many beautiful cafes and restaurant options – Click here for the best hotels in Le Marais

• Hotel de Josephine de Bonaparte (charming 4-star hotel inspired by Napoléon’s wife)
• Hotel France Louvre (mid-range hotel in a typical Haussmanian style)

HOTELS AT SAINT-GERMAIN-DES-PRÉS

The neighborhood of Saint-Germain-des-Prés , on the Left Bank, is a great place to put your luggage down in Paris, especially if you are visiting Paris for the first time. It is picturesque and central, with many entertainment, beautiful cafes, and restaurant options – Click here for the best hotels in Saint-Germain

• Relais Christine (4-star hotel in a 16th-century private mansion)
• Hotel Chaplain Paris Rive Gauche (mid-range hotel a few meters from Luxembourg Gardens)

And there you have it – what to do in Paris in December 2024 and seasonal events to help you plan your Paris trip. Bon voyage!

Click here for more Paris travel tips

Back to Homepage

Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links, meaning I get a small commission if you make a purchase through my links. It costs you nothing more (in fact, if anything, you’ll get a nice discount) but helps me to go on creating incredible Paris content for you. I trust all products promoted here and would never recommend a product that isn’t of value. World in Paris is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no expense to you.

About WORLD IN PARIS

Quirky parisian explorer with a preference for lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about me ., i am elisa, the travel blogger behind world in paris. quirky explorer with a preference for the local side of my city and its lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & my best tips learn more.

Get our tips in your inbox!  Sign up

Travel France Blog

All You Need to Visit France

Paris in December: Top Attractions and Activities to Experience

Visiting Paris in December has a unique charm, distinct from any other time of the year.

During the holiday season, the city transforms into a winter wonderland. Imagine warming yourself with a cup of Vin Chaud as you wander through charming Christmas markets, each buzzing with a magical ambiance unique to Paris.

Despite the chill, the city brims with activities and events, ensuring your visit is unforgettable.

While Paris is enchanting in all seasons, December adds a unique layer of magic. Winter here allows travelers to explore famous attractions without the usual hustle, and there’s an undeniable delight in strolling through holiday-decorated streets.

Whether it’s your first Parisian adventure or a return journey, December always offers something new and memorable.

Key Takeaways

• Unique December Experience: Festive events, *fewer crowds, and a magical ambiance.
• Ideal Exploration Time: A perfect period to visit famous attractions and soak in the city’s holiday charm.
• Strategic Planning: Consider weather and local advice to maximize your Parisian adventure.

20. Reasons to Visit Paris in December

• Christmas Markets: Picture yourself savoring chocolat chaud and crêpes with Nutella, with the aroma of vin chaud filling the air.

2. Jardin Des Tuileries Market: Between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, this market is a feast for the senses, offering everything from Nutella waffles to a sophisticated Champagne bar.

3. Le Village de Noël at Les Halles: Tucked under the canopy of Les Halles, this market offers an intimate shopping experience and a beautifully decorated Christmas tree.

4. Square de la Tour Saint-Jacques Market: A hidden gem near the Marais, this market is perfect for a quick stop to enjoy vin chaud.

5. Montmartre’s Abbesses Market: Experience the local flavor here with a delightful Chocolat chaud and the neighborhood’s famous mushroom dish.

6. Saint Germain des Prés Market: Wander among fairy-lit huts, offering everything from tree decorations to pastries, right on the Boulevard Sant Germain.

7. Christmas Decorations: Each neighborhood sparkles with its own festive lights – a sight best enjoyed on a nighttime open-top bus tour.

8. Galeries Lafayette Haussmann Tree: An artistic spectacle reaching 16 meters high, different each year, and a photographer’s dream.

9. Rooftop Terrace at Galeries Lafayette: Not just views, but a charming ice rink adds to the festive spirit in December.

10. Shopping at Printemps: Beyond shopping, hunt for hidden Christmas trees and admire the seasonal window display.

11. Place Vendôme: Turned into a fashionable selfie hotspot with its tall Christmas trees.

12. Traditional Cafes: Immerse yourself in the Parisian cafe scene with a morning café crème or an afternoon espresso.

13. Wine Conversations: Spend evenings under heaters at cafes, enjoying wine and the vibrant atmosphere along Rue Montorgueil.

14. The Louvre Museum: Admire the Mona Lisa by day and the illuminated pyramid by night.

15. Ice Skating : Enjoy ice skating at iconic locations like the Hôtel de Ville or near the Eiffel Tower.

15. Attend a Christmas Concert : Many churches and concert halls offer Christmas shows, including the famous Notre Dame Cathedral and Sainte-Chapelle.

17. Try Christmas Gastronomy : Be sure to taste typical Christmas sweets, like “bûches de Noël” (Christmas logs) in local pastry shops.

18. Enjoy a Seine River Cruise : A cruise along the Seine River offers a unique perspective of the illuminated city.

19. Visit Disneyland Paris : Experience the magic of Disney with a Christmas twist at Disneyland Paris.

20. Climb Montmartre : Enjoy the winter views of the city from the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre. Montmartre is also perfect to enjoy the fireworks on New Year’s Eve.

Your journey through Paris in December will be filled with moments of wonder and cultural immersion. From the warmth of a cafe to the glow of Christmas lights, every experience here weaves a story of its own.

What to Do in Paris in December: 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: getting to know the city.

• Take an open-top bus tour for an overview
• Visit the Louvre museum
• Explore Les Deux Plateaux
• Shop for souvenirs on Rue de Rivoli
• Browse through Shakespeare & Co.
• Admire the Sainte-Chapelle
• Savor the festive atmosphere at the Saint Germain des Prés Christmas market.

Day 2: Iconic Sites and Shopping

• Enjoy a view of the Eiffel Tower from Trocadéro
• Stroll along the Champs-Élysées
• Visit the Arc de Triomphe
• Choose between Musée d’Orsay or other museums along the Seine River
• Indulge in shopping at Galeries Lafayette Haussmann
• Explore Jardin Des Tuileries Christmas Market
• See the Eiffel Tower illuminations from Trocadéro

Day 3: Art, Culture, and History

• Discover the charming Marais district
• Visit the Centre Pompidou for modern art
• Check out Abbesses Christmas Market at Montmartre
• Immerse yourself into Montmartre’s historic atmosphere
• Admire the Sacré-Cœur Basilica
• Pass by the famous Moulin Rouge

Day 4: More Shopping and Festive Fun

• Continue shopping at Galeries Lafayette Haussmann or Printemps
• Visit Le Village de Noël at Les Halles for shopping and Christmas market
• Go for food, drinks, and people-watching at Rue Montorgueil
• Choose between Square de la Tour Saint-Jacques Christmas Market or an open-top bus tour at night.

Alternative Day 4: Magical Excursion

• Consider a day trip to Disneyland Paris and experience the festive magic.

Paris Travel Planning Advice

Finding accommodations in paris, parisian hotels.

• Hotel in Montparnasse
• Hotel in Saint Germain de Près
• Hotel in La Defense

Hostels in Paris

• Hostel in Le Marais
• Hostel in Montmartre

What to Wear in Paris in December

December weather in paris.

Paris weather in December can be unpredictable . Expect a mix of rainy and dry days with lows of 3°C (37.4°F) and highs of 8°C (46.4°F). It might even reach below 0.

Days are shorter in December, with the sunset around 17:00-17:30. The temperature drops at night, so dressing in warm, waterproof clothing is essential.

Is There Snow in Paris During December?

Snow in Paris during December is rare, with more frequent snowfall in January and February. But, in 2022, it snowed the first week of December, and I was there 🙂

When it does snow, transportation might be disrupted, but the locals enjoy the change of scenery. Keep an eye on the weather app and communicate with your accommodation to be prepared for snow.

Currency Used in Paris

Paris uses the Euro as its currency. Debit and credit cards are widely accepted, and some shops even have special cash tills that dispense coins to minimize contact with cash.

Tourist Information Centers

Paris has several tourist information offices, with the main one at 29 rue de Rivoli, Paris 4e, inside the beautiful building of the Town Hall.

Recommended Tours and Activities for Winter in Paris

To enjoy your trip to Paris in December, consider the following tour and activity recommendations:

• Louvre Timed Entrance
• Arc de Triomphe Skip The Line
• Sainte-Chapelle Skip The Line
• Open-top Bus
• Disney Shuttle Bus

Remember that airport-style security is common at attractions, so have your bag ready to expedite the process.

Outfit Planner

EXTRA TIP : plan what you will wear in advance so you take everything you need and do not have to make extra expenses at the destination. You can download the PDF here; the price is up to you!

Suggested Clothing and Accessories for Paris in December

Here’s a list of items to consider packing for your trip to Paris in December:

• Layered clothing, such as cardigans and sweaters
• Tights to wear under pants, skirts, or dresses for extra warmth
• Waterproof coat, padded jacket, hat, gloves, and scarf
• Waterproof shoes or boots without air holes and warm socks
• Refillable water bottle (tap water is safe to drink)
• Tote bags for shopping
• Camera, portable charger, and hydration tablets for potential hangovers

Remember to purchase travel insurance before your trip to Paris , and enjoy a memorable experience in the captivating City of Lights!

Best Things to Do in Paris at Christmas

Experiencing christmas day in paris.

Public activity is limited on December 25th and January 1st as these are official holidays. The metro, RER, and public buses will operate on a reduced timetable. However, some establishments will remain open, including:

• Hotels offering Christmas lunch/dinner – make reservations during your stay
• Ethnic restaurants not celebrating Christmas
• Local convenience stores not celebrating Christmas
• Paris attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Moulin Rouge, Sacre-Coeur for mass, and Seine cruises

Closed Attractions on Christmas and New Year’s Day

Keep in mind that some major attractions will be closed on these holidays, such as:

• Sainte-Chapelle
• Arc de Triomphe

If staying in an apartment, complete your grocery shopping before Christmas Day and enjoy the almost empty city!

Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Paris

After experiencing Christmas in Paris, prepare for New Year’s Eve festivities. The official celebration is around the Arc de Triomphe, featuring family-friendly animations and fireworks. Restaurants should be booked in advance, and clubs may charge an additional entry fee.

Arriving in Paris

Paris has two main airports, Charles-de-Gaulle (CDG) and Orly (ORY), both with public transport links to the city. The RER B train connects CDG to central city stations in 30-40 minutes for under 11 euros.

• Read the full article about how to go from CDG Airport to Paris

You can take the OrlyVal train from Orly to the RER station at Antony, which takes around 40 minutes.

• Read the full article about how to go from Orly Airport to Paris

If you live in Europe and arrive at Beauvais Airport, here is an article about getting from Beauvais Airport to Paris .

Navigating Paris

Paris is divided into arrondissements or neighborhoods. Starting with the 1st arrondissement in the center, subsequent arrondissements spiral outwards like a snail.

Popular attractions can be found throughout the various districts. Paris offers a well-connected public transport system utilizing the metro, RER trains, trams, buses, taxis, Uber (more expensive), e-scooters, and boat tour rides on the Seine River.

Consider the Passlib, an official tourism pass for public transport access, a Seine cruise, and entry to Paris museums. Choose the duration of the pass as per your preference. Metro tickets can be bought in packs of ten (un carnet).

Plan Your Trip to Paris

• Everything you need to know about Paris
• Best Airports to Arrive in Paris
• Top Attractions in Paris

This post may include affiliate links. This means that we will receive a small fee if you make a purchase through our links. It has no additional cost to you. It’s a win-win!

Hi there! I’m Vero! I’ve always loved traveling! I have been living in France since 2018. And traveling around this awesome country. I love road trips and traveling by van, and also, some comfy getaways :) Check out: Touristear.com

Similar Posts

What are The Most Famous Bridges in France?

Tips for Visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris: Complete Guide

Explore the Beauty of Sainte Chapelle in Paris: Your Ultimate Guide

34 Paris Hidden Gems You Must Visit During Your Trip

Discover the Beautiful Parks and Gardens in Paris

Paris Travel Tips for Your First Time in the City

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Privacy Overview

• Español ( Spanish )

Visiting Paris in December: What to See & How to Plan Your Trip?

Last Updated on December 18, 2023

Are you considering visiting Paris in December? Most think of the end-of-year holiday festivities and displays as the primary draw card– and they’re certainly not wrong. But there’s much more to see and do beyond the usual fare.

It’s not all about Christmas markets, holiday window displays and noisy New Year’s festivities (although these are certainly not activities you should overlook, as I detail further down). Beyond this busier side to the year-end in the French capital, there lies a juicy opportunity for peace and contemplation.

The French have an expression for the sort of quiet luxury and indulgence I associate with the city in its wintery guise: “ luxe, calme, et volupté .”  Translating roughly to “luxury, calm and delight”, the phrase shows up both in Charles Baudelaire’s poem “ L’invitation au Voyage ” and as the title of a 1904 painting by Henri Matisse .

Other enticing prospects: escaping the crowds to enjoy the whistling of wind through bare-leaved trees at Parc Monceau and the Tuileries (pictured above), or of spending a few hours taking in paintings, sculpture or photography at a small, under-appreciated Parisian museum or gallery — minus the summertime crowds, hopefully.

Read related: Cozy, Irresistible Things to Do in Paris This Winter

If you’re looking for a little of that ineffable but decidedly French trifecta, read on for a little inspiration, followed by a few more direct suggestions on what’s worth seeing and doing at year-end.

Do keep in mind, however, that these are subjective notes and not meant as comprehensive advice on everything going on at this time of year. See the Paris Tourist Office page for that sort of general overview.

December Weather in Paris (& Packing Tips)

In December, it’s generally brisk and cold, although in recent years there have been unusual warm spells or periods during which temperatures reach seasonal maximums over several days. I generally recommend that you pack plenty of warm sweaters, a waterproof coat, hat and shoes, gloves, scarves and warm socks. In case of an especially warm day, layering is always a good idea.

Minimum Temperature: 3 degrees C/37.4 degrees F Maximum Temperature: 8 degrees C/46.4 degrees F Average temp: 5 degrees C/41 degrees F Average monthly precipitation:  1.9 inches

Also take note that snow sticking to the ground longer than a few minutes is rather rare in Paris: when precipitation does come, you’re more likely to be regaled with icy rain or sleet.

The idyllic images of a snow-blanketed Paris end up being a pretty rare experience, unfortunately, so don’t expect a white December during your stay. Luckily, there are plenty of other ways to get your fix when you’re after traditional seasonal cheer, as I detail below.

The Best Things to See & Do in December

As I mentioned earlier, one of the things about year-end in Paris that I find so appealing is the sense of peaceful contemplation and deep quiet that seems to hover over the city. Part of the reason for this is that, especially outside of touristy areas, the streets can be remarkably empty.

Parisians are famously averse to the slightest icy wind, which means many people tend to huddle inside at home or in the city’s innumerable cafes, cinemas and galleries.

In fact, a common French superstition is that any cold “courant d’air” (draft) may lead you to catch your death, or at the very least a terrible bout of rhinopharangite (the common cold– doesn’t it sound eons more dramatic in French?) or angine (a vague throat infection or even a simple sore throat).

If you assumed that Parisians mummified their neck areas in thick scarves to look chic (which they often do, of course), their enthusiasm for wrapping up is more likely driven by rampant cultural hypochondria; by the local conviction that protecting one’s neck area from the cold will stave off most illnesses.

It’s a belief I have a hard time shaking off myself: cold air touching a bare spot on my neck now instinctively prompts me to “protect it” from the mysterious and malign forces of chilled wind.

But I digress. My long prelude was meant to underline two things:  one, there’s something quietly enchanting about exploring the city when an aura of rest and dormancy has fallen over it; and two, there are plenty of cozy ways to enjoy being indoors (but don’t expect much solitude there). Here are few of my favorite ways to do both:

1. Warm up over gourmet tea or hot chocolate.

If you’ve made the rounds of Parisian cafes and are looking for something a bit different, an old-world tearoom can be a wonderful way to duck in somewhere to warm up, read or just relax.

I especially recommend the Mariages Frères tearoom in the Marais district : choose from hundreds of variety of gourmet French teas, from black to white and green. Their afternoon savoury and sweet tea menus, pastries and cakes are also delicious (30 rue du Bourg-Tibourg, 4th arrondissement; metro: St-Paul.)

Read related: My Favorite Spots for Afternoon Tea in Paris 

The Viennese-style tearoom Angelina  is a favorite for rich, thick hot chocolate, meanwhile (226 rue de Rivoli, 1st arrondissement; Metro: Louvre-Rivoli).

My own preferred spot for hot chocolate in the capital, Jean-Paul Hévin , is (sadly) not currently open: the master chocolatier closed his upstairs tearoom when real estate prices became unaffordable on the swank Rue St-Honoré.

But according to a staff member I spoke to recently at the new shop at the same location, there are plans in the works for a new tearoom to open sometime in the future– meaning Hévin’s divine chocolat chaud, infused with ginger, raspberries, chili and other inventive flavors, may soon be calling my name again. Here’s to hoping…

See my longer list (at TripSavvy) of places for good hot chocolate in Paris here , and our guide to some of the best places for gourmet coffee in the capital, here.

2. Go soak up some art.

I’m not promising that museums and galleries will be empty, but they’re still likely to be less crowded at this time of year than during peak season. Take a few hours to contemplate artistic masterpieces at one of the city’s superb permanent collections.

My favorites include the astounding, and constantly refreshed, permanent collection at the Centre Georges Pompidou’s Museum of Modern Art:  with masterpieces from the likes of Matisse, Derain, Kandinsky, Warhol, Man Ray, Niki de Sainte Phalle and countless others, getting bored here is out of the question.

I also recommend the entirely free collection at the Musee d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris,  the sumptuous medieval tapestries at the Musee Cluny,  and the Orangerie , where Monet’s magnifient Nympheas series    (water lilies) plunges you into the artist’s astounding mastery of color and light, never failing to offer a moment of peace and contemplation. The Monet room at the Oragerie is also free for all.

Buy tickets and priority entrance passes to the Centre Pompidou (via Tiqets.com)

For ideas on small and independent galleries to duck into from the cold, see my feature on small museums in the French capital, and this piece on some of the best free collections in Paris.

Also check out my longer piece on the capital’s best modern art collections.

3. Take a wintery walk.

As long as it doesn’t get too cold, I’m a big fan of wintery strolls. I enjoy bundling up and feeling the slight, invigorating sting of wintery wind on my face (but never the neck! Beware the dreaded  courant d’air !) and strolling through lanes of bare trees, or watching the ducks and geese as they float around aimlessly on the steely grey ponds.

I especially recommend the massive parks known as “Paris’ lungs” just east and west of the city limits (The Bois de Boulogne and the Bois de Vincennes ): both easily accessible by metro, these enormous green spaces offer miles of walking trails, large ponds for admiring the waterfowl, and dozens of varieties of trees.

The Palais Royal  has a traditional coziness about it, with its elegant arcades, boutiques, cafes and restaurants. This is the height of Parisian wintery elegance– plus, it’s a great place to search for holiday gifts from France that are neither cliche nor tacky.

{Related: How to avoid tourist traps and scams in Paris?}

I also love the Romantic-style Parc du Buttes-Chaumont ( pictured above ) , with its artificial grottoes, panoramic viewpoints and impressive variety of beautiful trees, as well as abundant birds. Recently I and a friend witnessed a colony of green parrots inhabiting some of the trees there: a strange sighting, to say the least!

For more on the city’s loveliest parks and gardens, see this page .

Annual Events Worth Seeing, & Noteworthy Exhibits in 2023

For many, the biggest draw cards of a December getaway to Paris are the holiday festivities, markets and decorations– and I certainly can’t deny their appeal! You can see all our suggestions for feting the season in our complete guide to Christmas and winter holidays in Paris. 

Christmas markets in Paris generally open in late November and run through Christmas Day or, rarely, through early January. For a complete list of markets open in 2023 ,see more here. 

While some may find them a touch kitschy– and can’t that be fun, anyway?–  the warm Alsatian-style lodges in wood are something I look forward to every year.

Walking through the stalls, you may or may not be tempted to stock up on decorations, toys and other items of admittedly varying quality, but a good glug of spiced mulled wine down the gullet and a crepe warming your hand isn’t likely to make your mood any worse .

Related: Where to Taste Paris’ Most Delicious Crepes & Galettes 

Among my favorites  include the annual market at St-Germain-des-Prés (generally a bit quieter than some of the others) and the Alsace-themed market at Gare de L’est (the Franco-German region where the traditional marché de noel has its origins.

Related : Th e Best Things to See & Do in Strasbourg, France

Meanwhile, holiday lights and shop window displays attract tourists in significant numbers every year. Streets I find especially beautiful when illuminated for the season include Place Vendome, Rue St Honoré, and Rue Montorgueil .

{Find a Holiday-Themed Tour or Paris Experience with Viator}

Naturally, many will want to flock to the grands magasins (traditional department stores) to see their always festive and colorful holiday windows and lights. Galeries Lafayette and Printemps, both at Metro Havre Caumartin, are seasonal favorites, and perfect for a family excursion.

At Galeries Lafayette and the adjoining Printemps store on Boulevard Haussmann , the window displays in 2023-2024 run through early January. The festive holiday window scenes are once again complemented by an enormous and opulent Christmas tree jutting up through the old glass cupola in the main hall. It was unveiled in mid-November. 

As much as I try to resist it, I can’t help but find it beautiful, especially set against the fine details of the hall’s Belle-Epoque architecture. Parisians know how to do a grandiose holiday season better than anyone, it would seem.

Finally, ice skating rinks are also a fun way to spend the day, particularly with kids; see a list of rinks open this year here .

New Year’s Eve in the French capital can be a rowdy and remarkably overcrowded affair, especially in areas around the Champs-Elysées and the Sacre Coeur.

Of course, especially if you’re a first-time visitor to Paris and want to see some of its most iconic attractions in their holiday guise, you may decide the crowded conditions are worth it.

My favorite, and far more relaxed, way to spend the occasion in Paris is to pick up a bottle of champagne or the less expensive but equally excellent Crémant de Loire or Crémant de Bourgogne  and find a suitable place to celebrate: even a quick toast by the banks of the Seine can be very pleasant, albeit chilly!

Alternatively, enjoy casual drinks at a bar or wine bar : many do stay open on the 31st, as owners know the night is a popular one for eating and drinking into the wee hours.

Exhibits & Shows Worth Seeing in December 2023

December is a busy time in the Parisian arts and culture scene. Here are just a few picks for this month– and to see a more complete list of exhibits and shows in 2023, see this page .

Amedeo Modigliani: A Painter and His Retailer (Musée de l’Orangerie)

This much-awaited retrospective at the intimate Musée de l’Orangerie near the Tuileries gardens considers the monumental oeuvre of Expressionist painter Amedeo Modigliani, and probes his lifelong ties with the art dealer and gallery owner Paul Guillaume.

Modigliani– who is perhaps most famous for his abstract portraits that draw inspiration from traditional African sculpture, was a prolific artist whose work spans several mediums, from paintings to sculptures and drawings. The show at the Orangerie, running through early January, takes an intriguing look at how Paul Guillaume nurtured Modigliani’s talent and helped catapult him to worldwide fame.

• Location: Musée de l’Orangerie , Jardin des Tuileries, 75001 Paris
• When : Through January 15, 2024

Naples in Paris: The Louvre Invites the Capodimonte Museum

Fascinated by the Italian Renaissance? Then make sure to eke out time in your busy holiday calendar for this show in Paris, which sees the Louvre Museum team up with the Capodimonte Museum in Naples, Italy. The blockbuster exhibition highlights some 60 of the greatest Renaissance-era Itlaian masterpieces from the Bourbon and Farnese collections, from Raphael to Michaelangelo.

• Location: Musée du Louvre, 75001 Paris
• When : Through January 8, 2024

Like This? Pin & Share

Courtney Traub is the Founder and Editor of Paris Unlocked. She’s a longtime Paris resident who now divides her time (as well as she can manage) between the French capital and Norwich, UK. Co-author of the 2012 Michelin Green Guide to Northern France & the Paris Region, she has been interviewed as an expert on Paris and France by the BBC, Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Le Figaro, Matador Network and other publications. Courtney has also written and reported stories for media outlets including Radio France Internationale, The Christian Science Monitor, Women’s Wear Daily and The Associated Press. In addition to going down various rabbit holes of curiosity when it comes to French culture, history, food and art, Courtney is a scholar of literature and cultural history whose essays and reviews have appeared in various forums.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Explore Topics

Recent posts.

• French Stories That Have Caught My Attention This Month
• Go Back in Time at These Historic Paris Restaurants
• Addressing the Problem of Overtourism in Europe & Elsewhere: A Few Thoughts
• Are the French Incapable of Showing Excitement?
• Privacy Policy

Paris Unlocked

26 Best Things to Do in Paris in Winter (+Local Tips)

Paris in Winter – are you worried that the cold and sometimes gray weather might spoil your experience? Let me ease your concerns. As a Paris local, I’m excited to reveal how winter here can be absolutely enchanting.

Yes, it’s chilly and occasionally rainy, but this also means fewer crowds and a more serene encounter with Paris’s famous attractions.

The city’s allure doesn’t diminish with the colder weather. It simply transforms, offering you warm, cozy cafés to relax with a hot beverage and museums rich in art and history to explore.

I’ll share my favorite winter activities in Paris, from famous sights and landmarks, to charming museums, shops, and insider addresses.

Salut, I am Lena – travel planning expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

If you purchase through links on this site, I may earn – at no cost to you – a small commission. This helps me cover my costs and keep my website running. Thank you so much for your support 🙂   Learn more

These articles are interesting for your upcoming trip as well:

• 30+ Memorable Things to do in Paris at Night
• 4 days in Paris – the complete guide!
• Scams in Paris! How to avoid the most common cons
• What NOT to do in Paris -23 (costly) Paris Mistakes you need to avoid!

Take a look as well at our monthly guides to get detailed info on what’s going on during your stay.

Paris in Winter: Your Complete Guide

I know that traveling to Paris during winter may not sound like the most obvious thing to do at first. But I assure you that winter opens up an entirely new set of great activities in Paris , and you will have the most wonderful time.

After reading this article, you’ll be perfectly set up for your trip. You’ll know what shouldn’t be missing from your luggage, what to expect from your winter city trip, and most importantly, you will learn about the best things to do in Paris.

Don’t get me wrong, winter does have its downsides, though. Undeniably, it’s rather cold, often rainy, and night sets in early.

However, this means as well, that you have plenty of occasions to enjoy the illuminated city, spend time in restaurants and cozy cafés, stroll through museums and browse the shops.

And there are a few more reasons to visit Paris this Winter: It’s less crowded, you are more likely to find cheaper hotel deals, and most important: the Christmas season in Paris is magical. Some even consider winter the best time to visit Paris. 

CHECKLIST for your Paris Trip

• Get a Travel Adapter
• Book your airport transfer
• 🚨 Get Travel Insurance
• Buy your SIM card in advance

✔ Hotel booked?

• Budget: Hotel France Albion (8.6)
• Midrange: Hôtel des Arts (9.6)
• Upscale: Millésime Hôtel (9.2)

✔ Tickets booked?

• Eiffel Tower ( book here )
• Louvre ( book here )
• Versailles ( book here )

Your Winter Trip to Paris: Know Before you Go

Before sharing all the fantastic things you can do during wintertime in Paris, let’s start with the essentials. For general Paris travel tips, check our Paris Essential article to be perfectly prepared for your trip.

When is Winter in Paris?

Winter starts officially on the 21st of December. However, usually, when traveling to Paris during wintertime, you can consider November as well. Not without reason. The cold season has already started, and so has the Christmas season in Paris .

Because Christmas starts in Paris by the end of November. The city is beautifully illuminated in Christmas lights, and Christmas markets are open as well.

Just keep in mind that Christmas is a holiday time as well for French families. Schools close shortly before Christmas and don’t open again until early January. While winter is generally shoulder season in Paris, Christmas is the high season.

How’s the weather in Paris during winter?

It can get chilly in Paris, without a question. However, December is usually milder than January and February , even though more humid. Temperatures in winter are on average between 3°- 9°C  (37°- 48°F ). But, I already experienced temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F)  and as high as 15°C (59°F)! If you are visiting Paris in March , you can expect milder temperatures as it’s the end of winter already.

Winter days are short in Paris! On the shortest days, the sun is not rising before 8:45 am, and it can be dark well before 5 pm.

Will there be Snow in Paris?

No, I am sorry, it’s rather unlikely. Snow in Paris is extremely rare, even in Paris in the winter time. It is simply rarely cold enough, so even if it snows, it won’t stay but transforms into gray mud within minutes.

Within the past 16 years, I remember only 3 times when we were granted snow that actually stayed – one time was at Easter !

What do you Need to Pack for Your Winter Trip to Paris?

Keeping in mind that the temperatures mentioned above are averages, you absolutely need to pack winter gear! A hat, scarf, fleece jacket, and even potentially long undergarments if you plan to stay longer outside: temperatures can fall far under 0°C (32°F).

However, try to dress in layers. As soon as you enter a store, restaurant, or museum, you’ll melt away because it’s often very heated inside.

Tip: I usually carry a little tote back in my purse to store my scarf, hat and even jacket when I am inside a bit longer.

Packing for you Trip to Paris During Winter

For winter in Paris, besides a warm jacket and scarf, consider packing waterproof shoes ( I love these —they’re versatile and have good grip on wet streets). Rain gear is also a must.

A quick note on rain gear: rain ponchos aren’t very common in Paris, and they’re not very practical. Since you’ll be going in and out of shops, museums, and cafés, a compact umbrella is much easier to manage. I, personally, prefer this small travel umbrella that fits right in my purse.

Be sure to pack the essentials listed below to stay prepared for the winter weather.

• Comfortable shoes or sneakers : It’s just a rumor that Parisians don’t wear them. Their favorites are  a pair of VEJA  and as of 2024, a pair of  Adidas Classics
• A Scarf  a must!
• A small travel umbrella:   This one  fits in every purse
• my savior for unsteady temperatures: a  lightwight downjacket  to easily add a layer
• Warm Merino Socks: These ones were a real game changer for: They feel like normal socks but keep you warm, without over heating, and they prevent blisters.

Order here (my favorite)

Order waterproof shoes here

Plan ahead for the Top Sights in Paris

Before you dive in and get inspired, I want to stress that it is almost mandatory for many activities in Paris to purchase your admission in advance . I know, it kills a bit of the spontaneous, easy-going holiday vibe. But there are a few reasons why you should book your tickets in advance

• Popular sights like the Eiffel Tower or the Catacombs book out weeks in advance
• If they have tickets available, it can happen that you find yourself queuing for hours

Hence, I strongly recommend reserving your entrance tickets in advance to avoid disappointment and /or wasting time queuing.

Below, you find the sights that you definitely need to book in advance . For your convenience, I added a link to my most trusted ticket provider:

Here’s a list with sights that sell out the quickest:

• Louvre  – avoid the ticket queues in December:  GetYourGuide  ┃ Viator
• Eiffel Tower  – head up to the summit:  GetYourGuide   ┃ Viator
• Catacombs  – history loaded cemetery that sells out like hot cakes:  GetYourGuide  ┃ Viator
• Château de Versailles  – crazy ticket queues onsite all year round:  GetYourGuide  ┃ Viator to book in advance

You can also purchase tickets directly on the sights homepages. However, the downside is that they usually don’t have a cancellation policy. While reserving your Paris tickets with get your guide grants you a 24h cancel and refund policy.

26 Idea for your Winter Trip to Paris

Now that you’re fully prepared for your winter trip to France, let’s dive into the most exciting part: What are the best things to do?

The Must-Do’s that belong on every Paris Winter Bucket list: 

• 1-hour evening cruise on the Seine »» Get your tickets here
• Eiffel Tower summit visit at sunset »» Get your tickets here
• Masterpieces at the Louvre »» Get your tickets here

#1 Take a Seine River Cruise

I took this cruise last year with my son, and we loved it

It might sound clichéd, but taking a cruise on the Seine is truly a delightful experience, especially during the chilly months. The nighttime view of the city lights is absolutely breathtaking, making it one of the most romantic activities in Paris.

It took me many years in Paris before I finally took a Bateau Mouche cruise, and the change in perspective was incredible. What’s great is that you can relax in a cozy, warm interior. Some boats even offer dinner on board.

Pick one of these options, suitable for every budget:

• Budget Option: simple but stunning: 1h Seine Cruise
• Best Value for Money: 3-Course Dinner Cruise 
• A Special Treat: Gourmet Dinner à la Carte Cruise

Or take a look at my article about 5 Best Seine River Cruise in Paris: Your Ultimate Guide for a more detailed breakdown.

#2 Take a Macaron Baking Class

Click here to see all the available baking classes in Paris

Winter is the perfect season for baking, and there’s no better place than Paris to master the art of creating delicious, delicate macarons. Paris boasts many cooking schools where you can learn this skill, but here are the top ones:

• Macaron Class at Galerie Lafayette (the cheapest) click here for prices and availabilities
• Macarons Class, Tea Time & To-Go box (the best rated) click here for bookings

I was lucky enough to join this class in the Galerie Lafayette , and it was a lovely experience. I can strongly recommend it.

#3 Visit the Fantastic Museums in Paris

If you’re an avid museums’ enthusiast, the Paris Museums Pass is your best option.

Visiting a museum is an obvious activity when the weather isn’t great. Luckily, there are plenty of great museums in Paris. So many, that you will have a hard time choosing:

• the Musée d’Orsay
• the Picasso Museum
• the Rodin Museum
• the Panthéon
• the Pinault Collection

just to name a few.

However, you should purchase your tickets in advance , especially for the Louvre. The ticket queues can be a real-time taker.  Click here for tickets and rates and reserve your spot.

Tip for visiting the Louvre: Don’t take the outside entrance at the glass pyramid – the waiting times are always longer. Head instead to the underground entrance at the Carrousel du Louvre. 

The Louvre or the Musée d’Orsay are for many to go to museums when in Paris, but did you hear about those?

• Musée des Egouts   the museum of the Parisian canalization – the history of sewers from the times of Lutèce until today
• Discover Parisian artifacts from throughout history at the free Musée Carnavalet
• Musée de la Magie an exhibition about magic, illusions, and automates that offers as well magic workshops
• Musée de Montmartre a museum about the history and the artists of Montmartre
• Musée Gourmand du Chocolat – taste your way through 4000 years of chocolate ( check  here to know more )
• Or: you also could visit the Fragonard Parfum Museum

I recommend looking into the 2-day Paris Museum Pass that grants you “Skip the Line” access to more than 60 Parisian Museums and activities – it’s paying off as soon as you visit a few museums.

Hence, it has an excellent  value, especially if you are only a few days in town! Check here for rates or check out Kasey’s review on the Museums Pass.

Also interesting: 18 free Museums in Paris (+tips to save on the others)

#4 Take some “Me Time” at a Spa

There is really nothing better on a cold and rainy Parisian winter day than spending a few relaxing hours in a Spa. Personally, I have been a few times to the Lush Spa and I liked it a lot. You need to book quite in advance though and, well, you need to like the scents of the cosmetic manufacture Lush.

For everyone else and also for the more spontaneous traveler, I can recommend Massage Concept.  It’s not as fancy but good value for money. I have been there once and I enjoyed it. The massage was good, the ambiance nice and the location very convenient in the very center of Paris.

For an authentic Hammam experience, you can also take a look at La Grande Mosquée in Paris.

#5 See a Cabaret Show

Visiting a cabaret show is one of the big 5 of Paris – a classic “must do” in Paris, especially in winter! Enjoy a show while having dinner and of course: Drink Champagne!

Read our post about the best cabarets in Paris to know which one to visit!

Especially the Dinner Shows at the Moulin Rouge are very popular. Did you know that the more than 125 years old theater is the world’s biggest single buyer of Champagne?

#6 Take a Sightseeing Tour in a Vintage Citroën 2CV

Winter isn’t the ideal time for a classic hop-on-hop-off tour, especially with an open-roof bus (though, to be fair, there are enclosed ones). Instead, why not embrace the season and treat yourself to something unique?

Consider booking a private sightseeing tour in a vintage car. These tours are personalized and intimate, with a private driver who knows the city inside out.

Plus, you’ll enjoy plenty of photo opportunities along the way. Click here for more info, rates, and options !

#7 See the parades for the Chinese New Year

The Asian quarter in Paris is home to the largest Chinatown in Europe, making it the perfect place to celebrate Chinese New Year. The biggest parade happens near Place d’Italie, so be sure to arrive early for a good spot!

Bonus: It’s one of the many free things to do in Paris

#8 Spend a Fun Day at Disneyland Paris

Get your Disneyland tickets right here

Winter at Disneyland Paris is truly magical and offers two big advantages: stunning Christmas decorations in December and shorter queues in January and February

Plus, it’s just a quick 40-minute ride from Paris by direct train. Click here for tickets.

Up for a trip to Disney? Don’t miss our Disney Articles:

• 15 Quick Tips for Visiting Disneyland Paris
• How to get from Paris to Disneyland
• Disneyland to the Eiffel Tower – How to get there Best

#9 Explore the Covered Galeries of Paris

Find my free walking itinerary with exact location here

Escape the rain and cold by exploring Paris’s charming covered passages. Many are located close to each other, making it a perfect themed walk on a wet day. Just keep in mind, these arcades can be a bit tricky to find!

For more details and exact locations, check out my article on the 14 most charming Arcades in Paris —it even includes a handy map.

#10 Attend a Reading at Shakespeare & Company

There are quite a few English bookstores in Paris and some of them host regular events like concerts or readings.

My favorite though is Shakespeare and Company, . Ceck out their agenda, there is always something going on. Even if your visit is not matching one of their sessions, the store is well worth a visit.

#11 See a Concert in Paris

It can be overtaxing to find a good gig, especially in a city like Paris with an uncountable number of venues, bars, and open mic sessions.

Browse through the list of Parisian Venues and find the right place for you. Also, take a look at the concert calendar , fnac.fr , or Ticketmaster 

#12 Have Fun at a Pub Quiz

Are you wondering what to do in Paris at night when picnics at the Seine are not an option? Go to the Quiz!!!

It’s a well-established tradition in Paris and you find Quiz Nights in basically all Irish, English, and Scottish pubs. For example, at The Highlander on Sundays.

#13 Put on Your Coat and Have a Walk

Winter time in Paris is cold, but it’s rarely really freezing. Put on a winter coat, a scarf, and maybe a bonnet, and you’re good to go outside to enjoy the humidity that will crawl up your legs and bones. Nah, don’t worry haha 🙂

Having a walk-in Paris along the Seine, the Bois de Boulogne, or Bois de Vincennes is always nice. Or just walk around Montmartre, the Père Lachaise cemetery , or the Marais. Just get outside, it’s worth it!

If you want to stroll through the fantastic Parisians Parks during your stay, read this article first:  Most beautiful Parks in Paris

#14 Go Shopping

To say Paris is decent for shopping is a serious understatement. The city is a shopper’s paradise, with countless boutiques and charming neighborhoods to explore. However, if the weather isn’t on your side and outdoor shopping isn’t an option, Paris still has you covered.

Consider heading to one of the city’s major shopping malls, like Les Halles ,  La Beaugrenelle, or  Le 4 Temps at La Defense.

These malls offer a wide range of shops, making them ideal for a rainy day. Plus, if you find yourself at La Défense, you can also take the opportunity to visit the impressive Grande Arche while you’re there!

#15 Sign up for an Escape Game

It’s not the cheapest activity, and you’ll need to book in advance, but escape rooms in Paris are well worth it. The city offers a wide variety of themes, from Maya temples and haunted manors to submarines, Japan, and even catacombs.

Whatever your interest, there’s an escape room for you—and many are available in English. There are many companies offering Escape Games, but my favorites are HintHunt and The Game .

Personally, I’m a huge fan of escape rooms and had a blast with the Assassin’s Creed and Japan-themed ones.

#16 Take a swim at Aquaboulevard

Aquaboulevard is Paris’s number one water park, and it’s packed with fun activities for the whole family. With artificial waves, 11 exciting waterslides (though a few are outdoors), wakeboarding, and a tropical Caribbean atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

It’s an ideal spot to escape the cold and for you to have some fun indoors, making it a perfect choice if you’re visiting Paris with kids.

#17 Have a hot Chocolate at Angelina

Hot chocolate is a remedy for many to counter the cold season. Enjoy it at Angelina ; a classic Parisian tearoom. They are running a few tearooms in Paris, but usually, it’s quite popular. Think about reserving a table in advance.

#18 Enjoy the best Cocktails in Paris

here are my recommendation for Speakeasy Bars & Cocktail Bars

Paris has many excellent bars with world-class cocktails. Hence, when it’s cold outside and strolling by the Seine is the least inviting, it’s cocktail time

If you are feeling adventurous, set off for explore Paris’ speakeasy bars and if you want something more sophisticated, take a look at the best cocktail bars in Paris that are recommended by an expert!

#19 Visit an Aquarium

The Aquarium of Paris ,  just in front of the Eiffel Tower, is the largest in Paris. Apart from fish and more fish (in 43 fish tanks) you get the full program: workshops, movies, animations, shows, you can even pair your visit with a Sunday brunch.

However, If this is blowing up your budget, you can visit as well the Aquarium Tropical in the Palais de la Porte Dorée . It’s maybe not as spectacular, but it offers everything that the Aquarium of Paris does; just on a smaller scale.

For a fraction of the entrance fee (€8 and free admission for everyone under 26). Kill two birds with one stone: the Palais de la Porte Dorée hosts as well the National Immigration Museum .

#20 Enjoy a Wine Tasting

France is THE wine country (there is no need to argue about this with any French person!) and Paris is a great place to enjoy a wine tasting. Especially if it’s all cold and gray outside!

Click here to know which are the most popular wine tasting sessions in Paris and know more about their availabilities and rates.

#21 Go wild on Paris’ Winter Sales in January

Date for 2025: 8th January to 11th February

No matter if you are preparing your shopping tour or just randomly checking out stores; Paris is THE city to hunt for good deals.

My bargain tip: Check your favorite stores a few days before the Sales begin. They are already prepped for the big day, and you will find all the items that will be on sale hanging/laying together. Just get back there early on sales day and buy it at a reduced price.

#22 Play Arcade Games at “La Tête dans les Nuages”

Whether you’re 5 or 50, who doesn’t enjoy a good pinball game now and then? La Tête dans les Nuages ” is one of the largest arcade centers in Paris, boasting over 100 gaming terminals.

It’s the perfect place to spend a fun-filled afternoon, especially on a rainy day in Paris . But it’s not just for kids and teenagers—adults can have a blast here too.

Whether it’s winter or any other season, La Tête dans les Nuages offers a great way to relive some nostalgia and enjoy some lighthearted entertainment.

#23 Take a Cooking or Pastry Class in Paris

What about a new skill as a Paris Souvenir ? Learn how to make Croissants, prepare a Magret de Canard , a Filet Mignon or know how to bake an authentic Baguette.

The countless Parisian cooking classes have for sure something for your taste (and to impress your friends back home!) How about a 3-course Lunch including wine and a market visit ?

Or maybe you are more up for learning how to bake Macarons ?

Also Read : The Best Pastry Classes in Paris: Croissant, Macarons & More

#24 Play Board Games at the “Dernier Bar avant du Fin du Monde”

Rainy days and board games are a perfect pair. Head over to the Bar at the End of the Universe , grab a Mario Bruschetta, sip on a Death Star Cocktail, and choose a board game from their extensive library.

While you’re there, make sure to snap a picture on the Iron Throne or take a selfie with R2D2!

#25 Got to the Movies

Sure, you could watch a movie at home, but Paris offers so much more than just the big, modern cinemas like UGC, Cinema Gaumont, or MK2. The city is dotted with charming, historic movie theaters that are truly worth experiencing.

Consider visiting Cinema Luxor , Le Grand Rex or La Filmothèque du Quartier Latin. . for a memorable night out.

If you’re not up for a French film, look for screenings marked VOST or VO to catch a movie in its original language with French subtitles.

For something more artistic and unique, don’t miss La Peniche Cinema , where the setting itself is part of the experience.

#26 Put the Skates on – Go Ice skating

During winter, some ice skating rinks are installed all around town, and it’s one of the best winter activities in Paris during winter. As there are normally no rinks installed, everyone gets excited. For 2023 though, there are sadly no big ice rinks installed in Paris.

Voilà, my best tips for spending vacation in Winter in Paris. You certainly won’t run short on activities. And if you are visiting Paris during Christmas, a whole new set on activities can be added to the list.

For more information, also read my article about Christmas in Paris:

• 18 Magical Things to do in Paris at Christmas (+ Travel Tips)

Parisienne since 2006 🩷

Expert in: Parisian Life &

French Culture, Travel

Planning, Crochet & Food and Drinks

Join me on Facebook for updates and news about Paris.

Must Have Paris Travel Essentials

International Travel Adapter

Order here from Amazon

Portable Charger for your Phone

Not winter yet? Pin it now and find it back later!

Lena is the creator of Salut from Paris, a blog offering practical tips for exploring the city. Originally from Germany, she shares her Paris experiences, from iconic sights to hidden gems. Her blog helps travelers plan with ease, blending must-see attractions and authentic local spots.

Similar Posts

Paris in October 2024 – What to See, Eat, Pack & Do!

Salon de l’Agriculture: Paris’ Best Food Festival

Paris in August 2024 – What to See, Eat, Pack & Do!

Paris in June 2024 – What to See, Eat, Pack & Do!

Paris in November 2024 – What to See, Eat, Pack & Do!

La Petite Ceinture: Discover Paris’ Abandoned Railway (+ Insider Tips)

PARIS TRAVEL TIPS

The Best of Paris in One Place

Paris in December 2024: Weather, What to Wear, and Things to Do

Are you planning a visit to Paris in December 2024? This enchanting month in the City of Light offers a unique experience, blending the chill of winter with the warm glow of festive spirit. As you step into this remarkable city, you’ll find the air crisp and cold, but the atmosphere vibrant and full of life. Paris in December is a delightful blend of local traditions and international holiday cheer. Let’s explore what Paris is like in December, from the weather to activities and more.

Table of Contents

Weather in Paris in December

Paris in December embraces winter, offering a unique charm in the colder season. Here’s a detailed look at the weather in Paris during this month:

• Daytime High (°C/°F) : Expect daytime highs of around 10°C (50°F), offering a refreshing chill in the air.
• Nighttime Low (°C/°F) : As the sun sets, temperatures dip to around 5°C (41°F), making evenings perfect for cozy escapes.
• Average Precipitation : Rainfall varies, so be prepared for intermittent showers, but don’t let them dampen your spirits.
• Snowfall Days : Paris receives a sprinkle of snow, on average 1.8 days during December. Though the city rarely sees a winter wonderland, the occasional flurries add to the enchantment.

Yet, don’t expect it to linger, as Paris’s temperatures quickly usher away the snow, returning the city to its usual picturesque state. However, what you’ll more commonly experience are cloudy days and intermittent rain showers. So, if you decide to embrace Paris in December, it’s wise to have a backup plan for indoor activities when the weather doesn’t play along.

What to Wear in Paris in December

Dressing for Paris in December requires a focus on quality and warmth. To conquer the cold, a sturdy and warm coat is your faithful companion. Wrap yourself in a scarf and don a cozy hat to keep the chills at bay. Comfortable leather Chelsea boots, combined with merino wool socks, ensure your feet remain snug as you wander the city’s enchanting streets.

For women, chic yet practical choices include turtlenecks, wool ponchos, or oversized cardigans, which provide an extra layer of warmth. Men can opt for a warm coat, complemented with Merino pullovers and a shirt for that classic Parisian look. If you plan to spend significant time outdoors, consider adding thermal underwear to your packing list for Paris in December. This extra layer will keep you toasty, allowing you to explore the city’s wonders comfortably.

Here’s what to pack to Paris in December:

Things to Pack to Paris For Women in December

• Sturdy and Warm Coat : Embrace a stylish yet warm coat that embodies the essence of Parisian fashion.
• Cozy Accessories : Don a turtleneck, wool ponchos, or oversized cardigans to add flair and warmth.
• Scarves and a Cozy Hat : These timeless accessories not only keep you warm but also elevate your style.
• Warm Gloves : Essential for leisurely strolls in the city.
• Stylish Boots : Opt for comfortable, yet elegant boots like Chelsea boots.
• Merino Wool Socks : Keep your feet toasty and comfortable.
• Thermal Underwear : For those extra chilly days.

What to Pack to Paris For Men in December

• Dapper Coat : A stylish yet warm coat is a must to blend in with Parisian elegance.
• Layered Look : Pair merino pullovers with shirts for a classic look.
• Scarves and a Beanie : These accessories add warmth and style to your outfit.
• Warm Gloves : For comfort during outdoor explorations.
• Leather Chelsea Boots : Combine style and warmth with these boots.
• Merino Wool Socks : Keep your feet snug and cozy.
• Thermal Underwear : Ideal for staying warm and comfortable on colder days.

Things to Pack for Paris Activities in December

• Comfortable Walking Shoes : Ideal for exploring the city’s charming streets.
• Umbrella or Waterproof Jacket : Prepare for occasional showers and stay dry while wandering.
• Layers : Stay flexible with your clothing layers to adapt to changing indoor and outdoor temperatures.

What is Paris Like in December?

Paris in December paints a picture of a city transformed into a magical wonderland. The cold weather may encourage you to seek shelter in its indoor treasures, and you’ll find no shortage of captivating sights to explore.

Crowds in Paris in December: How Is It?

Low season vs. high season.

The beginning of December in Paris is still considered the low season, offering savvy travelers better prices on transportation and accommodation. However, as you approach Christmas week, the city transforms into a high season destination, drawing visitors from around the world. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit, we recommend planning and booking in advance if you intend to explore Paris in December.

Year-End Gatherings

December in Paris is more than just a time of festive celebrations; it’s also the month for year-end gatherings with coworkers, friends, and family. Weekdays, especially Thursdays, see bars and restaurants bustling with business meetings. On weekends, the atmosphere shifts to a focus on friends and family, creating a warm and inviting ambiance throughout the city.

Tips to Avoid Crowds in Paris in December

To make the most of your time and avoid long lines, consider the following tips:

• Visit Temporary Exhibitions During Office Hours: Explore temporary exhibitions when locals are at work, significantly reducing the chances of overcrowding. Be sure to book your tickets well in advance to secure your entry.
• Prioritize Christmas Shopping and Markets During Office Hours: To navigate the Christmas shopping frenzy, schedule these activities during office hours. Parisians tend to focus on work during the day, making it an ideal time for shopping. Save the more touristy activities for the weekends when the locals are out and about.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a less crowded and more enjoyable experience during your December visit to Paris.

Things to Do in Paris in December

Christmas markets to explore in paris in december.

Venture into a world of enchantment as you explore the charming Christmas markets of Paris:

• Marché de Trocadéro : Set against the iconic Eiffel Tower backdrop, it’s a visual delight and a feast for the senses.
• Marché de Champs-Élysées : Famous for its magical festive lighting, this market is the living embodiment of a Parisian postcard.
• Marché de Montmartre : A cozier, intimate market nestled in the heart of the Montmartre area.
• La Défense : France’s largest and most beautiful festive market, offering a grand spectacle of lights, decorations, and holiday cheer.

Embrace the scents of roasted chestnuts, the sounds of joyful carolers, and the sight of artisanal crafts and festive decorations. It’s the ideal place to find unique souvenirs and delightful gifts, making your Parisian experience truly special.

Visit Famous Churches

December is a season of religious celebration, making it the perfect time to explore some of the city’s iconic religious landmarks:

• Notre-Dame de Paris : The 12th-century Gothic cathedral, an iconic symbol of Paris (temporarily closed).
• Sainte-Chapelle : Known as the Kingdom of Light, it boasts stunning stained glass windows, creating a mesmerizing play of colors and light.
• Sacré-Cœur Basilica : Perched on Montmartre, this magnificent basilica offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. As you climb the steps, you’ll be rewarded with an unparalleled vista of Paris.
• St-Sulpice Church : Famously featured in The Da Vinci Code, this church offers an intriguing blend of history and mystery.

Night Seine River Cruise

As the sun sets and Paris dons its evening attire, embark on a night Seine River cruise. The city’s landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Invalides, are beautifully illuminated, creating a mesmerizing scene. The gentle lapping of the water and the enchanting ambiance make it a truly romantic and magical experience. Choose from cruises with or without dinner and let the Seine weave its story beneath the starry Parisian sky.

Experience Art and Culture

Paris boasts an array of world-class museums and galleries, and December offers the advantage of fewer crowds:

• Musée du Louvre : Home to an unparalleled collection of art and history, this museum is a treasure trove of human creativity.
• Musée d’Orsay : Housed in a former train station, it showcases Impressionist and post-Impressionist masterpieces, including works by Monet, Degas, and Van Gogh.
• Musée Marmottan-Claude Monet : A treasure trove of Claude Monet’s art, it’s a treat for art enthusiasts.
• Musée Carnavalet : Delve into Parisian history in this remarkable museum, which spans two historic mansion buildings.
• Philharmonie de Paris : Known for its ingenious design and exceptional acoustics, it’s a treat for music lovers. The architecture itself is a visual marvel, enhancing the sound quality of performances.

Read more about famous museums in Paris here: 10 Best Museums in Paris: Find the One for Your Interest

Walk through Shopping Passages

For an outdoor shopping experience shielded from the cold, explore the covered shopping streets known as ‘passages’ in the city center. Galerie Vivienne, with its well-preserved statues and mosaics, is a local favorite. These passages offer a unique shopping experience, where you can indulge in retail therapy while escaping the winter chill.

Explore Paris Squares and Streets

Paris’s elegant squares, beautifully illuminated and decorated, offer a delightful backdrop for a leisurely stroll. Don’t miss the royal squares like Place Vendôme and Place des Vosges, but also venture off the beaten path to discover the charm of local life.

Go Ice Skating in Paris

Experience the joy of ice skating against the backdrop of one of Paris’s most beautiful buildings—the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall). Each winter, its courtyard transforms into a public ice skating rink, providing a picturesque setting for this seasonal pastime. The nearby BHV department store, adorned with festive displays, adds to the enchantment.

Window Shopping in Paris

Parisian department stores like Galeries Lafayette, Printemps Haussmann, and Le Bon Marché offer enchanting window displays during the holiday season. Step inside these grand stores to be dazzled by towering Christmas trees and twinkling lights.

Winter Sales

January to February is sale season in Paris. The winter sales offer shoppers fantastic discounts on everything from designer clothes to home goods. As the weeks progress, you’ll find markdowns increasing, making it the perfect time for bargain hunting.

Ballet at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées

The Champs-Élysées Theater on Avenue Montaigne hosts a range of performances throughout the year, including concerts, operas, and ballets. Check the schedule for your visit and consider attending a show. The theater’s design is as impressive as its performances, enhancing the sound quality and visual appeal of each production.

Paris Lights Festival at Jardin des Plantes

From late November to early January, the Festival of Lights at Jardin des Plantes in the 5th Arrondissement transforms the garden into a mesmerizing world of illuminated art. Each year’s exhibition showcases a unique theme that raises awareness about protecting the planet’s endangered species. It’s a captivating experience for the whole family, filled with monumental light structures and immersive displays.

Book Food Tours in December in Paris

Indulge in a gourmet experience by exploring the famous food in Paris. For December, pastry and chocolate walking tours are perfect. Discover traditional cakes and sweets enjoyed during Christmas in France while admiring beautifully adorned pastry shops.

Winter Walk in Bois de Vincennes

Escape the city for a serene winter walk in Bois de Vincennes. Breathe in the crisp, fresh air, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. This sprawling natural setting, close to the city, offers a peaceful retreat to recharge and relax.

Public Holidays in France

During your visit, be aware of the following public holidays:

• Christmas Eve (December 24) : Many places close early, and you’ll find that restaurants offer special programs for an unforgettable Christmas Eve dinner.
• Christmas Day (December 25) : While Christmas Day is a public holiday in France, some attractions have modified hours or may be closed. It’s a day for family celebrations and feasting.
• New Year’s Eve (December 31) : On this festive night, some places may close early, while restaurants and night attractions offer special programs to welcome the New Year with a bang.

Christmas at Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris celebrates Enchanted Christmas from November to January. During this time, the park is adorned with festive decorations, hosts special shows and parades, and offers a joyful atmosphere for visitors of all ages.

When : November 11 – January 7

Hanukkah Celebrations in Paris

Experience the beauty of Hanukkah in Paris. Throughout the city, you can discover magnificent menorah lightings, symbolizing unity and tradition during the Festival of Lights.

Conclusion: Embrace Paris in December

Prepare to be captivated by the enchanting charm, rich culture, and festive ambiance of Paris in December. Whether you choose to explore the city indoors or under the open sky, Paris is ready to share its December magic with you. As you pack your warmest clothes and your sense of adventure, know that Paris welcomes you with open arms, ready to make your winter visit truly unforgettable.

Related Post

Paris in november: weather, what to wear, and the best things to do, best time to visit paris by month: weather, budget, crowds (2024), paris in february: weather, events, what to wear & eat 2024, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

10 Best Museums in Paris: Find the One for Your Interest

Places and areas to avoid in paris: dangerous arrondissements & districts for tourists (2024).

Our Adventure Journal

11 Tips for Visiting Paris in December

Last Updated on April 9, 2024 by Kelly

Thinking of visiting Paris during the month of December? Wondering if your trip will be “worth it” if you travel during the off-season? Do you want to see Paris during the holidays? I’ve traveled to Paris on four separate occasions, and one of those trips was during the month of December. December was actually one of my favorite times to visit Paris . The whole city was dressed up for the holidays, which added another layer of magic to this dreamy city. In this post, I’ll share 11 tips for visiting Paris in December !

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. These sales help to run this blog without any additional cost to you. The products from KÜHL were gifted to us in exchange for an honest review. 

My Best Tips

After my own trip to Paris during December, I’m sharing my top tips for enjoying Paris during the month of December. I hope these tips inspire you to visit Paris during the winter!

Tip #1: Prepare for the Weather

Because the weather in Paris can be cold and wet during the month of December, you’ll want to make sure you pack some good winter clothes. I recommend dressing in layers so that you can adjust throughout the day as needed. (You’ll probably be walking a lot, so don’t underestimate how warm you can be when you’re moving constantly!)

First, I recommend bringing a good winter jacket that will actually keep you warm . I personally own the KÜHL FROST Parka , which is my absolute favorite winter jacket. This jacket keeps me warm and dry all winter long! I’ve worn this jacket in 19° F and have stayed very comfortable.

There are two things that really make the FROST parka stand out from other jackets I’ve owned. The first is how lightweight it is. While most winter jackets are heavy and bulky, this parka is very lightweight. It allows much more freedom of movement, and I don’t feel constricted at all. The second thing that I really love about this jacket is that it converts into a backpack. When I’m not wearing it, it’s really easy to carry it around the airport, attach it my luggage, or even pack it in my bag. This jacket is a bit expensive, but I think it’s worth every penny. 

I also recommend a pair of pants that will keep your legs warm and is water-resistant. 

Tip #2: Build a Flexible Itinerary 

While you’re planning your trip, build yourself a flexible itinerary. Each day, have a list of activities that would be good for a rainy day or just a cloudy day. If it’s not raining, it might be the perfect time to explore the gardens such as the Jardin des Tuileries or Jardin du Luxembourg. But if it’s pouring rain, you might need to pivot and choose some indoor activities like the Louvre Museum, Palais Garnier, or Sainte Chapelle. 

It’s a good idea to include a Plan A a nd Plan B for each day. That way, you won’t be disappointed if the weather doesn’t cooperate. And of course, prioritize the places you really want to see early in your trip. You don’t want to leave Paris without seeing something you really wanted to see just because it rained every day.

Tip #3: Set Expectations

I think this is an important tip for planning any trip. Sometimes we build up an image of what our trip should be , instead of giving space for what it will be. If you’re picturing a trip to Paris in December with a lot of sunshine, you’re probably setting yourself up for disappointment. Instead, allow yourself to be open to the experience as it unfolds.

I also like to remind myself that sometimes the toughest travel days make for the best stories later! For example, during our trip to Disneyland Paris , we were caught in a flash rain downpour that left us stranded in the middle of a maze completely soaked. Now it’s something we laugh about!

Tip #4: Enjoy Less Crowds

This is probably one of the BEST reasons to visit Paris in December: less crowds! As long as you travel during early to mid December, you can definitely enjoy major attractions without dense crowds. (Although please note that some attractions may be busy during the Christmas holiday.)

I’ve been to Paris during the summer and during the month of December, and let me tell you, Paris is far less busy during December! I was there in early December before the actual holidays, and many of the most famous sights were practically empty!

For example, pictured below is a photo of my visit to the Louvre Museum. Do you see how it’s practically empty? During the summer, this place was crawling with people. There were lines, crowds, and vendors all over the place. During December, however, there was hardly anyone visiting. 

If you plan on visiting the Louvre, I highly recommend booking a guided tour that includes your ticket reservation. The Louvre is world’s largest museum, and it can be extremely overwhelming for a first-time visitor. If you go with a knowledgeable tour guide, you’ll be able to navigate the map and see the most important highlights. 

Tip #5: Go Shopping and Enjoy the Decor

Paris is simply magical during the holidays! It’s especially fun to go shopping, because some stores really go all out on their decorations. One of the most popular shopping destinations is the Champs-Elysées Avenue. It’s filled with world-famous shops such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Zara. This avenue especially sparkles during the holidays, so it’s a perfect place to stroll and admire the lights. We also recommend that you stop by Ladurée. They’ve been making macarons for over 160 years and trying them is an absolute must when you’re in Paris! (We also recommend buying a box of macarons from their location within the Charles de Gaulle airport. They make the perfect souvenir!)

If you’re looking to go holiday shopping, be sure to check out Galeries Lafayette Haussmann. This upscale department store has been decorating their shopping space since 1976. They are famous for their Giant Christmas Tree and window displays. The Christmas tree is located directly beneath a giant glass dome ( coupole ), and is a must-see while you’re in Paris during the month of December. Every 30 minutes, the tree will light-up with a special sound and light show, so make sure you stick around long enough to see it. (But honestly, Galeries Lafayette Haussmann is worth visiting just to see the stained-glass dome. It’s 141 feet tall!)

Tip #6: Visit a Christmas Market

Europe is famous for its Christmas markets, and Paris does not disappoint! You’ll find Christmas markets sprinkled throughout Paris, so it’s fairly easy to add this item to your itinerary.

The Christmas markets are open throughout the holiday season, and most of them will be open the entire month of December. December is prime time to visit the Christmas markets! (Although some open as early as November.)

The Christmas markets will be filled with tents and wooden booths selling everything from ornaments (another good idea for a souvenir!), to mulled wine, to roasted nuts. 

Some of the most popular Christmas markets in Paris are: Le Village de Noël at Les Halles, Marché de Noël (near Notre Dame), La Magie de Noël (Tuileries Garden), and Saint-Germain-des-Prés Christmas Market. If you can manage it, try to visit the Christmas markets on a weekday. They are much more busy during the weekends.

Be sure to see all our Paris posts! I especially recommend our two-day Paris itinerary and things to see in the Latin Quarter .

Tip #7: Choose Accommodations Wisely

When I visited Paris in December, I was a college student without a lot of money. My friends and I stayed at a hostel near the Louvre. I have to say that this was not ideal. The windows of our dorm room didn’t close all the way, so the room was freezing. The bedding was pretty limited (just a sheet), and there was no hot water in the morning when I tried to take a shower. These things aren’t too unusual for a hostel, but during the month of December, it was pretty rough. Based on that experience, I’d recommend staying at a nicer hotel. If you really want to splurge, check out these 5-star hotels in Paris . (Or just look it over to dream!)

During out last trip to Paris, we stayed at the Hotel du Louvre . It was a fabulous hotel! It was close to all the major attractions and we experienced excellent service. I can’t recommend this hotel enough. You can read our full review of the Hotel du Louvre here .

Tip #8: Take Advantage of Paris’s Indoor Activities

December is the perfect month to take advantage of Paris’s numerous indoor activities. These include the numerous museums Paris has to offer! Some of Paris’s most famous museums include the Musée du Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Musée Rodin, and Musée Marmottan-Monet.

If you’ve had your fill of museums, check out some of the palatial buildings. The Palais Garnier is Paris’s famous opera house. You can typically view the inside of Palais Garnier without opera tickets from 10am until 5pm, unless there’s an afternoon performance. The opera house was completed in 1875. It was never a palace, but instead it was called Palais Garnier due to its extravagance. There are 1,979 seats. The interior is famous for its Grand Staircase, Grand Foyer, and chandelier. 

We also highly recommend visiting Sainte-Chapelle. This cathedral is located on the same island as Notre Dame, and it’s famous for its numerous stained glass windows. We visited for the first time this year, and I don’t know why it took me until my 4th visit to Paris to see it. Don’t be like me… add this to site to your itinerary right away!

Tip #9: Review Closure Dates in Advance

When you’re building your itinerary, review museum hours of operation closely. Many of Paris’s museums close one day per week. For example, the Louvre is typically closed each Tuesday. The Musée d’Orsay is typically closed on Mondays. It would be a shame to travel to the museum only to realize that it’s closed.

Tip #10: Enjoy the Food (And a Hot Chocolate!)

Paris is famous for its cuisine! Regardless of the weather, you can head indoors and enjoy the many excellent dishes that Paris is known for. We especially recommend trying croissants, baguettes, pan au chocolat, macarons, choux à la crème, champagne, fondue, crepes, croque madame, and French onion soup. 

During the month of December, many restaurants close or have limited hours. I recommend making dining reservations! 

I think my absolute favorite thing to do in Paris is to find a bistro or cafe, cozy myself against a small table, and people watch. There’s nothing better than sipping on a hot beverage and nibbling away at a decadent pastry. Or if you’re looking for an alcoholic beverage, try a vin chaud (mulled wine). 

December is the perfect time to enjoy a hot chocolate in Paris. Pictured below is a cup of hot chocolate and a mountain of whipped cream from the cafe Carette. (Highly recommend!)

Tip #11: Buy the Go City Paris Pass

Because you’ve visiting during the winter, it’s likely that you’ll be visiting multiple indoor attractions. You can save money by bundling attractions with a Go City Paris Pass . You can choose from experiences such as a Eiffel Tower Elevator Guided Tour, Louvre Ultimate Experience, Macaron Pastry Class at Galeries Lafayette, a Cheese Tasting Tour, and more. You can customize your pass and choose from multiple pass options that work best for your itinerary and budget.

BONUS: Book a Trip to Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris is only 45 kilometers from downtown Paris. It’s super-easy to reach Disneyland Paris by taking the train. 

During the month of December, Disneyland Paris transforms into a holiday oasis. The entire park is decked with garlands, lights, and there’s even a special Christmas parade. We would love to visit Disneyland Paris during the Christmas season one day! 

We’ve written about our best tips for Paris in December here, but click here to see our full list of tips for traveling to Paris . 

Weather in December

The first thing you’re probably wondering is “What will the weather be like in December?”

The weather in Paris during December can be quite variable, so you’ll want to prepare for a range of possibilities. 

In December, the average high is 47° F (8.3° C), with an average low of 39° F (3.9° C). On average, Paris sees 9 rainy days during the month of December. (So it’s a good idea to prepare for rain! ) You can expect it to be cloudy about 73% of the time .

Once you’re within two weeks of your trip departure date, you can start looking up the 14-day weather forecast on Time and Date’s extended forecast for Paris. This will help you plan your trip with more precision.

During the month of December, expect the sunset in Paris to be around 5pm (17:00). Sunrise is around 8:40am . Because there are less hours of daylight, plan your itinerary carefully. (For example, if you want to take daytime pics in front of the Eiffel Tower, make sure to get there during that window!)

When I visited Paris in December, it was dry but quite cold. I wore a large parka, a scarf, and mittens. In hindsight, I wish I would have packed some ear muffs!

Here’s a quick summary of our tips for visiting Paris in December:

• Prepare for the weather
• Build a flexible itinerary
• Set expectations
• Enjoy less crowds
• Go shopping and enjoy the decor
• Visit a Christmas market
• Choose accommodation’s wisely
• Take advantage of Paris’s indoor activities
• Review closure dates in advance
• Enjoy the food (and a hot chocolate!)
• Buy the Go City Paris Pass to bundle attractions

Visiting Paris during the month of December was one of my travel highlights. I visited with several friends of mine, and we had the best time museum hopping and staying warm with hot beverages. Although Paris is beautiful during the summer, it definitely has a more magical feel during the winter. I hope this post inspires you to book a trip to Paris in December!

Disclaimer :  We always strive for content accuracy.   Since the time of publishing, travel-related information regarding pricing, schedules, and hours may have changed. Please look up such information directly from each vendor or institution for the most current information.

Hi, I’m Kelly!

After studying abroad in Spain, I became passionate about international travel. Since then, I’ve traveled to 6 continents and 36 states within the United States. When I’m not travel blogging, you can find me hiking, reading books in Spanish, or playing cribbage. I hope my blog inspires you to see the world!

Paris Weather in December

• Paris Weather

Paris Weather in December: What to Expect, Pack, & Do

The arrival of cold weather in Paris in December marks the true beginning of winter as days grow shorter, temperatures drop to the freezing mark, and rainy gray days threaten to outnumber the sunny ones.

Fortunately, you'll find plenty of things to do that take advantage of Paris's chilly December weather and holiday season.

Christmas markets offering roasted chestnuts and hot mulled wine, spectacular holiday decorations in store windows fascinate shoppers, and plenty of sparkling lights bring a festive glow to the city and lure you outdoors - despite the sometimes chilly December temperatures.

Planning a Visit to Paris in December?

If you're coming to Paris this month, consider booking tours, cruises, and other activities as soon as possible to make sure of getting your top choices.

Top Paris attractions & experiences:

• Seine River Panoramic Views Dinner Cruise - 3-course meal prepared on board
• Eiffel Tower 2nd Floor or Summit Guided tour  - Sells out fast
• Moulin Rouge Dinner Show with Return Transportation - Enjoy a dazzling cabaraet show with a 3-course gourmet dinner & Champagne

Most popular Paris destinations this month:

• Champagne Tasting Tour Plus Reims Cathedral - Fun day trip from Paris
• Disneyland Paris 1-Day Ticket - Favorite family-friendly activity
• Dinner at Madame Brasserie on the Eiffel Tower  - Toast December and the New Year with a multi-course meal, superb French wine, live music & Champagne

Although you may still experience relatively balmy December days in the 50s and even the low 60s this month, it's also possible to have some days when the temperature remains in the low 40s (and even, occasionally, the upper 30s) and then hovers around the freezing mark or drops even lower at night. 

Rain ranging from drizzle to downpours, wind, and even the rare snow flurry can make you feel even colder. 

So you'll need to pack layers to prepare you for whatever version of December weather greets you when you wake up in the morning.

When December winter weather makes itself felt, spend time at museum exhibitions, covered passages and markets, and cozy bistros where you can sip hot chocolate and enjoy a steaming bowl of onion soup.  Take a macaron baking class at Galeries Lafayette

But also schedule a few outdoor activities where you can soak up some sun while exploring the city - perhaps a Montmartre walking tour to taste cheese, wine, and pastries, or a fun walking tour of the city's best street art.

So keep reading to find out everything you need to know about December weather in Paris, packing tips, top things to do in December, and even recommendations about where to stay this month.

Article contents:

• Paris weather temperature ranges for December - Plus What to Really Expect
• How much rain and snow to expect in Paris during December
• What to pack for your December visit to Paris
• Should you visit Paris during December?  Or wait for a warmer month?
• Activities for all types of December weather in Paris
• Where to stay in Paris during December

Top photo: Rainy December evening in Paris's Saint Germain neighborhood, (c) Paris Discovery Guide

Paris Discovery Guide is a reader-supported publication.  When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost for you.  Learn more

What Is Paris Weather in December Really Like?

Even though the official beginning of winter doesn't happen until December 21, you may see (and feel) the transition from fall to winter take place during the first days of December. 

Daytime temperatures feel colder, you'll have fewer dayllight hours, and the showers of November give way to longer periods of rain during December.

Visually, the last bits of golden foliage still clinging to Paris trees in November has now mostly dropped to the ground by early December.

Paris now feels quite different from November, thanks to the mostly bare-branched trees - although as you can see in the above photo, grass still rather strangely remains green.  In parks and other green spaces, you're still likely to spot at least a few plants boasting small blossoms.

Paris Temperatures in December:  Average Highs & Lows

Here's a quick look at what December weather in Paris looks like on Fahrenheit (F) and Celsius (C) degree scales for average daily high and low temperatures during the past 10 years:

• Average daily December high temperature:  46°F to 53° F (7°C to 12°C)
• Average daily December low temperature:  34°F to 44° F (1°C to 7°C)

Remember, these are averages - useful for comparing one month with another, but definitely not a weather forecast for Paris in December. 

To better understand what actual temperatures might be during your December visit, always check the December high and low temperature ranges in the following section.

Weather Statistics for December in Paris:  High & Low Temperature Ranges

If you want to find out what December weather in Paris will really be like, looking at the average temperature ranges will give you a better idea than just checking the monthly averages. 

You'll also get a much better sense of what to pack - because Paris weather seldom hits the "average" mark for more than a day or two.

Here's the range of daily highs and lows for Paris in December during the past decade:

• Range of monthly high temperatures during December:  27°F to 61°F (-3°C to 16°C)
• Range of monthly low temperatures during December:  21°F to 57° F (-6°C to 14°C)

As you can probably guess from the high end of these ranges, it's not unusual for Paris to have several days during December when daytime temperatures soar into the lower 60s.  Even the lowest temperature during a day can reach almost that high.

Now take a look at the record high and low temperatures in December for the past 30 years:

• Highest monthly December temperature:  62°F (17°C) in 2000
• Lowest monthly December temperature:  14°F (-10°C) in 1996

Although these temperatures would not be unusual earlier in the fall, they can feel like a heat wave in December.

Stroll through almost any city park, and you'll see Parisians laying on the ground to soak up the sun.

This is why you need to look at both the average temperatures as well as the highest and lowest ranges when you're packing. 

Paris's climate is unpredictable from one year to the next (and on a daily basis) so you're wise to be prepared for a range of December weather conditions.

Sun and Clouds during December:  What to Expect

December in Paris offers a mix of cloudy, overcast conditions, rainy spells, and brilliant, vividly blue skies filled with fluffy white clouds - often during the same day. 

Days are short this month, with only 8 hours and 20 minutes of daylight.  You may experience some days when you don't see the sun at all.

How Much Rain, Wind, & Snow does Paris Get in December?

Paris typically records about 2.7 inches (about 68 mm) of precipitation on average during December, making it (potentially) one of the rainiest months of the year. 

But averages don't tell the whole story.  During the past 10 years, Paris has received from 0.6 inches (16 mm) to 4.8 inches (122 mm), which is actually a huge variation from year to year.

Although Paris can be breezy in December, including occasional strong winds (which invariably seem to happen on cold days, producing a significant wind chill factor), conditions are normally relatively calm. 

However, some years prove to be the exception.  In 1999, a massive storm hit Paris on a Monday night following strong gales over the weekend that had uprooted trees across the city. 

During the second storm, gales exceeded 90 mph in some parts of France.  In Paris, the winds damaged or tore down 60,000 trees in Bois de Boulogne and Bois de Vincennes, the two great forests flanking the city, and felled another 2,000 along the city's streets. 

Versailles Palace and Estate received the worst damage, with broken windows, roof damage, and around 10,000 uprooted trees, including some dating back to the time of the French Revolution.

Of course, storms can (and do) happen during any month in Paris, so consider adding a rain-resistant jacket and a strong umbrella to your packing list - more about that in a moment!

Snow during December is rare for Paris. 

A few flakes typically fall on a couple of days this month, but far less than an inch accumulates on the ground during most years and the snow will most likely fall at night and melt before you see it. 

What to Pack for December Weather in Paris

When you're making your packing list for December, it's important to bring outerwear that's heavy enough to keep you warm on cold, windy days as well as things you can layer if the temperature hits 60°F (16°C) or above.

In addition to your core wardrobe of tops, bottoms, comfortable walking shoes, and under garments, these are the essentials and options to consider for December:

• A warm jacket or a coat - bonus points if it's water-resistant.  Everyone feels cold in a different way.  If you're from a warm climate, you may feel like Paris in December is frigid, but by northern US/Canadian standards, it's not very cold at all and in case you're thinking of bringing your super-warm Canada Goose coat, don't - you'll be way too hot on most days.  However, do bring couple of warm sweaters to layer under your medium-weight cost if necessary (keeping in mind that during some periods, you won't need them at all).  Cashmere sweaters work well because of their ability to insulate without making you sweat. 
• A pair of comfortable ankle boots and your favorite walking shoes .
• Bring warm socks, if you have some you like.  Otherwise, Monoprix carries high-quality wool socks at very affordable prices (ie, about half or even less than what you'd pay in the U.S.).
• A warm scarf, gloves , fleece-lined leggings, and a warm hat are useful on cooler days and chilly nights. 
• A rain hat or umbrella is almost always necessary this month.  After experiencing a 3-day rainstorm accompanied by a lot of wind a few years which destroyed my light-weight umbrella as soon as I ventured outside, I now bring my sturdiest one whenever I'm here in December.

Pro Tip:  Right before you start packing for your trip, check the 7-day Paris weather forecast in case of any surprises.  Here's the forecast in both Fahrenheit and Celsius:

Is Visiting Paris in December Worth It Despite the Potentially Cold Weather?

Our opinion?  Paris is fantastic in December. 

Most of the time, you can expect the weather to be pleasant, but even when on rainy, cold, or windy days, you'll still experience the magic of being in Paris during this special season!

Here are a few of our season-related reasons why we love visiting Paris in December:

• Christmas markets, holiday lights and decorations, loads of good cheer.   December is a magical time to be in Paris, and the ideal place to welcome the New Year on the 31st
• Low-season savings on flights and hotel rates plus fewer tourists during the first half of December (but beware, prices start to rise sharply around mid-month)
• Fantastic exhibitions at many Paris museums and a huge lineup of concerts, opera, and ballet
• Warm (and almost-warm) sunny days when you can sit outside at a cafe terrace and enjoy a glass of chilled white wine (or two), or a steaming cup of hot chocolate on cooler cloudy days.
• Bakeries and confiseries (candy stores) fill their windows with mouth-watering galettes des rois for Epiphany and luscious chocolates for Valentine's Day, which of course you must sample
• Smaller crowds at popular attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, the Catacombs, and Musée d'Orsay

Weather-Proof Things to Do in Paris in December

Recommended activities for staying warm and dry while sightseeing in Paris during December weather:

• Paris Museums - You won't care what the weather outside is like when you use a Paris Museum pass for free admission to the Louvre, Orsay, Versailles, and almost 60 other famous Paris museums and attractions
• Moulin Rouge - Enjoy a spectacular holiday show and champagne in this famous Paris cabaret - or choose the gourmet dinner option
• Hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour bus - Stay warm and dry while you ride on the covered upper deck or enclosed lower deck
• Seine River dinner cruise - Savor a gourmet meal in a cozy glass-enclosed boat while seeing famous sights along the river
• Loire Valley Castles with Wine Tastings - Experience the beautiful Loire Valley as you visit castles and enjoy the local wine on this day trip from Paris

More Fun Things to Do & See in Paris in December

Where to stay in paris during december.

As you know by now, December weather in Paris can be chilly and rainy so a smart strategy is to stay in central Paris neighborhoods close to top attractions, lots of cosy bistros, and convenient metro stations.  Plus, it's fun to be near the city's festive Christmas Markets and top shopping districts this month.

With these criteria in mind, we recommend these top Paris neighborhoods for your December visit:

• Louvre Neighborhood/1st Arrondissement - Stay in this convenient neighborhood to be close to the Louvre, the Seine River, and other top Paris attractions, designer boutiques along Rue Saint-Honoré, and the lively Tuileries Garden Christmas Market -   Find best 1st arrondissement hotels
• Le Marais - Stroll through the narrow streets lined with appealing boutiques and bistros, shop in the arcades surrounding Place des Vosges, and visit the nearby Christmas Market at Hotel de Ville -  Find best places to stay in the Marais
• Montmartre - Enjoy the village-like vibe without the summer crowds, soak up the Paris skyline views from Sacre Coeur (and don't miss the Basilica's magnificent interior), and nibble on roasted chestnuts at the Rue des Abbesses Christmas Market - Find top hotels in Montmartre
• Saint-Germain - Sip a hot chocolate at Les Deux Magots, attend a classical Christmas concert in Saint-Germain Church, and admire the culinary treats and gifts at the nearby Christmas Market - Find best hotels in Saint-Germain

Find more of our recommendations for where to stay in Paris in the winter

Use this hotel booking map to find more hotels and apartments for your travel dates: 

Check out the newest Paris hotels

More about Paris in December

Christmas in paris.

• Top December Events in Paris
• Christmas Concerts in Paris
• Paris Christmas Markets
• Where to See Christmas Lights in Paris
• Tuileries Garden Christmas Market
• La Défense Christmas Market
• Hotel de Ville Christmas Market
• Holidays at Paris Disneyland
• Best Christmas Window Displays in Paris
• Christmas Eve Mass & Church Services in Paris
• Hanukkah in Paris
• Where to Stay in Paris in the Winter

Current Paris Weather Prediction Resource

Want current Paris weather predictions?  This is our favorite French source:  Meteoblue

Find Out More About Weather in Paris

Paris weather & packing tips by month.

Jan  - Feb - March - April - May - June  -  July - Aug - Sept - Oct - Nov - Dec

Related Articles

• What to Expect in Paris Each Season - Consider the pros and cons for each season
• When's the Best Time to Visit Paris? - When to save on hotels, avoid crowds, enjoy great weather, and more
• Paris Weather Each Month - Compare months to find the best one for your visit

More Information for Your Paris Visit in December

• Paris Church Concerts - Where to hear the best classic, baroque, sacred, and choral music concerts by professional musicians in historic Paris churches - perfect activity for cold December evenings!
• Cheap Flights to Paris  - Check out the low December fares
• Top Paris Events in December - Find out what's happening in Paris in December
• When Should You Visit Paris? - Consider the pros and cons for each season
• Recommended Paris Guide Books - Find the best guidebooks for planning your trip to Paris - Rick Steves and more!

Top Attractions & Tours

• Eiffel Tower - Enjoy sweeping views of Paris
• Louvre Tour - Soak up art & see the Mona Lisa
• Palace of Versailles - Best way to see the famous Chateau
• Paris Museum Pass - Choose 2, 4, or 6 days
• Paris Disneyland - Get express tickets & transport from Paris

Happening in Paris

January in Paris

• The famous Paris winter sales, concerts, new museum exhibits

February in Paris

• Valentine's Day, Chinese New Year Parades

March in Paris

• Mardi Gras, Fountain Shows at Versailles, French Open

April in Paris

• Paris Marathon, Easter concerts, spring flowers

May in Paris

• Mother's Day, jazz festival, concerts

June in Paris

• Summer sales, Pride week, music fests, air show

July in Paris

• Bastille Day, Tour de France, beaches

August in Paris

• Free concerts & movies, Rock En Seine

September in Paris

• European Heritage Days, Fashion Week

October in Paris

• Wine festival, Halloween, Motor Show

November in Paris

• Armistice Day, Salon du Chocolat

December in Paris

• Christmas, New Year's Eve

Hanukkuh in Paris

• Menorah lightings 

• Holiday celebrations & decorations

Christmas Markets

• Gifts, holiday food, mulled wine, and Santa

Newest Articles & Latest Updates

• December Weather in Paris - What to Expect
• September Weather in Paris - What to Expect
• Best Palace of Versailles Tours from Paris
• 101 Famous Graves in Pere Lachaise Cemetery
• Where to Find Paris's Best Covered Passages
• Best Paris Food Tours
• Best Hotels with Free Shuttles to Disneyland Paris

Book Your Paris Hotel

Eiffel Tower Hotels

• Watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle from your balcony

Arc de Triomphe Hotels

• Where to stay near the famous arch

New Hotels in Paris

• Stay in Paris's newest chic accommodations

Hotels near the Louvre

• Where to stay near the famous museum

Hotels near Notre Dame

• Wonderful hotels close to top Paris attractions

Deals & Discounts

• How to save on your Paris hotel

Plan Your Paris Trip

• Why visit Paris?
• What to do & see in each Paris district
• Check out top Paris attractions
• Paris Museum Pass:  Should you get one?
• Which neighborhood should you stay in?
• Choose your Paris hotel  
• How to spend your first day in Paris
• How to skip the ticket lines
• Day trips - Versailles, Giverny, Disney, & more
• 7 Reasons why you need travel insurance
• Electric adapters and converters  
• How to get Euros before you come
• Best Paris guide books
• Find cheap flights to Paris

• Where to Stay
• All Stories
• Links I love
• Paris Diaries
• Favorite Things
• The Paris Guide

Shop The Paris Guide

What to do in Paris in December

December is an exciting time of year to visit Paris if you are looking for festive holiday decorations and the spirit of Christmas. The city of lights is well-decorated for the holiday season from Christmas markets to department stores, you will be able to find a little magic everywhere. Below you will find activities for what to do in Paris in December for Christmas and the best things to do for New Year’s Eve. This is one of the most asked questions I have been getting in my inbox, and having a resource in one place is helpful.

Paris Weather in December

Expect winter weather for December in Paris. The average temperature in the daytime will be in the ’40s and evenings in the 30s. For rainy days, make sure to pack waterproof boots; I love my Blondos . An umbrella is a good idea for your day bag. Your hotel or apartment rental should offer an umbrella, but it is good to have a compact one like this to make it easy to carry.

*Here are some ideas for what to do on a rainy day in Paris.

A café is always the perfect place to warm up in the colder months if you are out and about in Paris. Grab a hot chocolate or glass of wine and duck into a café. Les Editeurs on the Left Bank of Paris by Odeon is a favorite of mine and is close to Luxembourg Gardens.

What to Wear in Paris in December

Cold weather should be expected. Bundle up with a wool coat (suggestions are in this post), gloves, a scarf , and a hat. The Parisians love their scarves. This is also a great excuse to pick one up at a local French shop or department store as a souvenir.

For more packing tips, you can check out this post on what to pack for Paris in the winter.

Boots, loafers, or sneakers are acceptable for shoes. Sweaters are essential for keeping warm. You can always pop by Sézane to grab a sweater or additional coat to stay warm. If you purchase anything over $100, make sure to ask for the VAT tax form. You will need your passport to get a refund at the airport. It takes a little extra time but is worth it for the 12% discount.

Where to See the Christmas Decorations in Paris

Paris dresses up for the festive season, which starts at the end of November and lasts until the end of December. You will see decorations and holiday lights on the exterior of buildings all over the city, including cafés and storefronts. It is a great time to visit for a long weekend, change things up with your regular holiday routine, and book a trip to Paris.

Galeries Lafayette has one of the best Christmas displays, in my opinion, for department stores. If you haven’t been inside, you can’t miss the glass ceiling. The Christmas tree will be right in the center of the store. Check to see if the panoramic terrace is open on the roof. It is a bit of a maze to get through the store to find the top but it will be worth it with the stunning free views of Paris. It is one of the best places to see the Parisian rooftops and take a photo.

Where to See Christmas Decorations in Paris

Walk down Rue St Honoré to Place Vendôme by The Ritz. This is one of my favorite places to see Christmas in Paris. The best time to visit is early morning before the crowds arrive. I walked here in the early morning of late November and was thrilled to see the area decorated for Christmas.

The Ritz Paris has a particular carousel to celebrate their 125th year in Place Vendome. You can read about it here.

The Champs Elysées is lit up with lights for Christmas and is one of the iconic streets of Paris. Head to the top of the Arc de Triomphe for a city view. You will also find smaller streets covered in hanging lights throughout the city. If you are around the Champs Elysées and looking for a dinner spot, I love the cozy and classic Chez André.

Montmartre puts on a fun display of Christmas lights hanging from the buildings. If you have kids, this is a fun way to keep them busy by watching for decorations and a little scavenger hunt between sightseeing.

The Paris Christmas markets are in different parts of the city and are explained in further detail below. The markets are a must-visit to have the full magical experience of Christmas.

French Winter Food

If you like cheese, this is a great time of the year to try raclette (melted cheese on meats and potatoes), fondue, or aligot which is a very cheesy potato dish. Try aligot as a side to your chicken or beef at a restaurant. It is a stick-to-your-ribs kind of dish but so good with a glass of red wine.

Other foods that are popular around Christmas in Paris are oysters, foie gras, and a bûche de Noël which is a cake in the shape of a yule log. You will be able to find these cakes at most bakeries in Paris.

You will also find chestnuts sold on street corners. The smell of roasted chestnuts is part of Paris to me and can be found throughout the winter months. Chestnut is used in desserts and is called marron glacé you will find this at different pastry shops in Paris such as Angelina (their Mont Blanc is iconic) and ice cream at Berthillon. I find the chestnut flavor to be an acquired one and not my favorite but one to experience at least once, especially at Christmas time in Paris.

Paris Christmas Markets

The city is sprinkled with Christmas markets and depending on where you are in the city, you can visit different ones. I prefer the one right in The Tuileries garden, centrally located in the city center. It is the perfect time for a vin chaud (hot spiced wine), a mulled cider, or a hot chocolate. You will find artisans selling jewelry, Christmas ornaments, and small giftable items to help with your Christmas shopping. There is also a Ferris Wheel in the Jardin des Tuileries to see the city all lit up with Christmas magic.

You will also find an ice skating rink in The Tuileries Christmas market area. Don’t forget your gloves which are essential for ice skating in Paris. I had the opportunity to skate outside of Hôtel de Ville a few years ago and it was such an incredible experience. They do make you buy gloves if you don’t have them before entering the ice rink. (une paire des gants is the French) More details on the ice skating rink here which runs through January 8th.

Explore the Christmas Market in Saint Germain des Près if you are on the Left Bank of Paris.

You should visit at least one Parisian Christmas market while you are in Paris in December.

Christmas decorations will be up until early January so if you are headed to Paris towards the end of December or early January you will still see Christmas lights in the city.

Ideas for Christmas Day

Stroll around the city and look at the Christmas windows at the department stores. BHV in the Marais always has a great window display that captures the Christmas spirit. On the Left Bank of Paris, stop by Le Bon Marché they also do a nice display for the holidays. A few years back they had Christmas trees lit up in the interior.

Book a restaurant in advance as you won’t be the only one looking for dinner on Christmas or Christmas Eve. Ask your hotel for help or check out this post for ideas . I would reserve it as soon as possible.

Le Train Bleu is offering a Prix Fix dinner menu and although the restaurant has been around for over 100 years it has become more popular thanks to Instagram. If they are fully booked, try to pop in for a coffee or breakfast. The ceiling is a must-see in Paris.

There is a Christmas concert at the Eiffel Tower with champagne for 75 euros. You can get tickets here.

New Year’s Eve in Paris

This is always a popular question. You could take a Seine river cruise or visit the Eiffel Tower for some classic Paris activities. If it was up to me, I would cozy up at a hotel bar and people-watch on New Year’s Eve. The holiday isn’t my favorite and I am a low-key girl. I have been suggesting to readers that they book a classic French bistro for the evening. I can’t think of a better way to spend the end of the year in Paris than enjoying a great meal. You can check out this blog post for a list of restaurant suggestions open on New Year’s Eve. One reader took my suggestion of Chez Ferdinand on Rue Christine and booked a table so I know they are also open.

If you have a Parisian balcony in your hotel or apartment, I would put some champagne on ice and pick up some cheeses and a baguette, and watch the city from the comfort of my pajamas or robe. This would be my ideal way to ring in the new year in Paris.

*This post includes affiliate links that help contribute to my coffee and croissant research fund. Merci!

Bonjour, I’m Rebecca!

I’m a photographer, blogger, croissant-lover, and world traveler. I hope that Everyday Parisian inspires you by bringing a bit of France into your daily life and helps you plan the best trip to Paris with personalized recommendations for places to stay, explore, and eat.

• MORE ABOUT ME

Subscribe to get a taste of Paris delivered straight to your inbox every week.

Thank you for subscribing!

Currently Loving

Most popular.

5 French Skincare Brands to Buy

2024 Spring Capsule Wardrobe

What To Pack for Paris in the Summer

Where to Picnic in Paris

Shop My Favorite Brands

YOU MIGHT ALSO LOVE

10 boutique hotels in paris, what to do in paris over christmas and new years, where to stay in paris, leave a comment, cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Paris is my favorite lover. For assorted life events I”ve been neglectful of her. Im 73 retired and enjoying life. Thank you for keeping me in touch with my favorite place. X

I tried to book Chez Fernand for NYE yesterday and they were booked online. I did not try to call because they were closed at the time, but I was able to snag a table at Huguette. I’m not a big NYE person either – we are having a big lunch that day, and I wanted something light, so seafood fit the bill. Also people watching in that area. I don’t know if it is still available, but Vedettes de Pont Neuf has a 90 minute champagne cruise that leaves at 11pm that is €60 – an absolute steal for a NYE Seine cruise. I found it hard to justify €350+ pp for a dinner cruise, especially when I would prefer to keep it simple anyway.

These are lovely suggestions for Christmas in Paris Rebecca – a hopeful dream maybe for next year. I enjoy receiving all of your weekly emails and wish you and your family including Henry a very happy Christmas, and a memorable wedding.

The Essential Guide to Visiting Paris in Winter

Last Updated on July 15, 2024

by Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and each season brings a new perspective to the elegant buildings, spectacular landmarks and incredible gastronomy, especially when the nights get longer and snow starts to fall.

Paris in the winter months is a wonderful sight, and if you don’t mind the cold weather, you should definitely take a trip in December, January or February to see the city of love in all its glory.

A lot of Paris’ attractions involve walking through the streets to see amazing landmarks, especially the Champs Élysées, Luxembourg Gardens and Eiffel Tower, but if you’re thinking about what things to do in winter, don’t worry; there are plenty of activities for all interests.

Table of Contents

Winter Weather in Paris

With climate change currently setting numerous world records, it’s impossible to say for certain what weather you’ll have during a Paris winter, but you can more or less guarantee you’ll experience temperatures between 0°C and 10°C (32°F to 50°F) during the daytime.

Usually, the end of January and the beginning of February are the coldest times of year in Paris, rarely reaching 10°C (50°F) before the weather starts to warm up as spring approaches. This is also when you’re most likely to have snowfall, but it doesn’t often hang around for long.

Early December can be a great time to visit Paris as you’ll still have relatively mild temperatures and can get your Christmas shopping at a classic department store done at the same time.

With that said, you should expect to bring layers with you as you can experience moments of glorious sunshine, as well as torrential rains and biting winds through winter. So, make sure you bring a light jacket, a warm jumper and a waterproof winter coat to make sure you’re prepared for any and all eventualities.

Which Month to Visit Paris?

Paris has an extraordinary number of tourists all year long – and with good reason. Each month has its unique activities as well as its drawbacks, so when exactly you should visiin the t wintertime, is down to your interests.

Paris in December is as magical as you imagine, with beautiful lights adorning the streets, shop windows and landmarks in preparation for Christmas, as well as the many Parisian Christmas markets all around the city.

The Champs Élysées is a must to walk down at any time of year but it’s well worth a trip in December to see the colourful decorations and hoards of shoppers at the designer shops as well as Paris’ largest Christmas market, while Rue Montorgueil is more of a local hangout if you’re searching for a quaint but classically French street to enjoy a chocolat chaud (French-style hot chocolate) or a sweet crêpe.

Paris’ Christmas markets aren’t the place to find the most authentic produce – or the cheapest – but the hubbub of people jostling around in a good mood as they prepare for the holidays makes the markets worth visiting, even if only for the atmosphere as you pass through. You can also organise a small group tour to experience this with a guide.

You also can’t miss out on a quick stop at Galeries Lafayettes – Haussmann over Christmas in Paris; this flagship store has an incredible Christmas tree in the centre as well as many wonderful decorations brightening up the interior and exterior of the large shopping centre.

What’s more, throughout most of December, you can find an open-air ice skating rink on the rooftop, so you can enjoy views over the magical capital whilst having fun with your loved ones.

Paris also comes alive in December with the sounds of Christmas too, as many churches and groups perform Christmas songs to delighted onlookers.

The best place to hear the songs is Sainte-Chapelle, opposite Notre Dame Cathedral, as the choral singing bounces around the extraordinary Gothic interior and the sunlight through the colourful stained glass windows is mesmerising. These are usually very popular concerts, however, so you should book tickets well in advance.

Although Christmas is the highlight of December for many people, for others it’s New Year’s Eve that holds the most excitement. Known locally as Saint-Sylvestre, the 31 December is a huge event in the French capital, with firework displays over the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe bringing hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.

You can perhaps enjoy them best during a cruise on the Seine, although you’ll have to book in advance.

Staying in Paris in December clearly has numerous advantages due to the number of activities and the beauty that descends on the city, however, if you want to avoid the crowds, you should probably avoid Paris around Christmas altogether, as there are thousands of tourists all over the city. If you don’t mind that, then, Joyeux Noël!

It’s quite fitting that the first of January is a public holiday where you’ll find most shops and restaurants across the city closed, as there’s significantly less to do – and significantly fewer people – in Paris in January.

If the Christmas shopping crowds or the prices put you off, January can be a great time to visit Paris to take advantage of the post-Christmas sales.

The sales are regulated by the French government so they can only legally take place for around two weeks in mid to late January, but many shops get involved and you can find some excellent deals on many products.

What’s more, the weather in January can be… less than ideal at times, so it’s not usually the best time to visit Paris if you plan on walking around and seeing the sights. But you can take advantage of the rainy or grey days by taking the time to cosy up in a cafe or spending your time in one of the city’s incredible museums or galleries.

The Louvre is top of most people’s list of things to do, but many don’t know that, except for July and August, you can enter the gallery for free after 6 pm on the first Friday of every month. The poor weather also means fewer people, so you’ve got a better chance of seeing the Mona Lisa up close than in other months.

If you’ve got a weekend in Paris, then head to the Musée d’Orsay on the first Sunday of the month for another free museum visit and to get out of the rain if you need to. Or, duck into one of Paris’ secret passageways to stay dry and feel like you’re stepping into a dream.

Passage des Panoramas is the oldest covered passage in Paris, with many charming little shops, cafés and brasseries tucked away inside, while the Passage du Grand Cerf makes for some fantastic photographs.

Galerie Vivienne is another popular passageway with bookshops and wine shops under the ornate neoclassical ceiling. If you can step outside without getting too wet, you can catch a glimpse of La Traversée de Paris in mid-January each year.

This classic car convention meets in the same location each year on the outskirts of Paris after driving through the city centre in a kind of old-fashioned parade that’s sure to get your attention, whether you’re a motorhead or not.

Visiting Paris in February may have certain connotations or clichés, so if you’re planning a trip to Paris in the wintertime, be careful around mid-February…

As you may expect, the city of love becomes full of amoureux around the 14th of February wishing to have a romantic weekend in the very city that oozes romanticism.

If you’re taking a break as a couple, it can be great to see Paris around Valentine’s Day and fully embrace the cheesiness or the romanticism of the capital awash with red roses and heart-shaped products.

But if you’re taking a solo trip to Paris, to be perfectly frank, it can be a little sickening at best, and at worst, unnecessarily expensive and difficult to find any restaurants without deals for two or activities that aren’t designed for couples.

That said, if you are planning on a romantic weekend in February, there are plenty of romantic cruises, discounted tickets-for-two for cabarets and restaurants offering a beautiful location to enjoy dinner for two.

If you do decide to head to the Eiffel Tower for the views of Paris or the “Je t’aime Wall”, however, you should watch where you’re walking as you can count on many people down on one knee.

One of the best things about spending the beginning of February in France – at least for me – is National Crêpe Day! Each year on this day in Paris you can find a unique menu in each restaurant serving its own version of the Breton dish, so head to Breizh Café or a crêperie for the best crêpes in Paris.

Another highlight of most Februaries in Paris is Chinese New Year. In Chinatown in the 13th arrondissement, you can join thousands of others seeing in the new year with a party filled with dancing, colourful costumes and, of course, a giant dragon.

The parade usually takes place from Place de la République down Avenue d’Ivry, although the heart of the party is always around Marais.

A different carnival that is usually but not always in February is Mardi Gras. Known as Shrove Tuesday or Pancake Day in English-speaking countries, this is the day of enormous festivities across France, especially in Paris, although it begins with a parade on the Sunday before, filled with explosions of colour and good mood across the city.

The parade, known as the Carnaval de Paris or Saint-Fargeau, begins in Place Gambetta and finishes in Place de la République, and is led by none other than a Limousin cow wearing a red dress. Yes, you read that correctly.

Things to do in Paris in Winter

There’s a lot to do and see in the French capital but, if we had to pick just a few things that definitely make it worthwhile visiting Paris in the wintertime, these are our top 5 picks.

Christmas Markets

December in Paris is all about Christmas, and, even if you don’t celebrate Christmas, it’s impossible not to get drawn into the warmth and happiness of the festivities.

With a huge Christmas market down the length of the Champs Élysées and numerous others across the city, including next to the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower, there are many places to soak in the atmosphere as well as do a spot of Christmas shopping.

Additionally, many of the Christmas markets also have other activities nearby, so you can take your children to one of the city’s pop-up funfairs, or go ice skating in the outdoor rink by the Eiffel Tower.

Most of the markets are open in the afternoon, but you can really make the most of them by attending in the evenings, so you can warm yourself with a cup of vin chaud (mulled wine) and the outdoor heaters or bonfires.

Once the sun has set you can also enjoy the dazzling display of lights on the Eiffel Tower, so this is a great Christmas market to head to.

New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Most cities in the world will have a fireworks display on New Year’s Eve, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t see them in Paris. With spectacular lights shows over the Arc de Triomphe and the glittering Eiffel Tower, the city comes alive with celebrations, as locals and tourists join together to welcome the coming year.

You may hear some firecrackers in the streets (although nothing compared to Fallas in Valencia ) so be wary if you’re of a nervous disposition and maybe don’t bring your dog, but you’re sure to find the Parisians in good spirits in the streets, bars and restaurants. And of course, if you fancy it, you’ll be able to find a great after-party too.

Celebrate Chinese New Year

The 31st of December is a blast, but what it’s lacking in parades, colours and dragons, you can always find plenty in the parade for the Chinese New Year.

Usually at the beginning of February, although sometimes in January, this celebration sees many Parisians and tourists descend on Chinatown for some fantastic and authentic Chinese and Pan-Asian food before taking to the streets to party.

Martial Arts displays, drumming groups and dancers can be found all over the 13th arrondissement for the day, and well into the night, donning traditional garb as well as fantastical animal costumes – and since 29 January 2025 sees in the Year of the Snake, you can bet there’ll be plenty of amazing photo opportunities around.

Visit the Louvre

Whichever work of art you’re wondering about, be it La Gioconda, the Wedding at Cana or Liberty Leading the People, the Louvre has over 5,000 incredible paintings that are absolute must-sees for everybody, not just art lovers.

You can see excellent photographs online, but nothing compares to standing in front of the real deal, seeing the brush strokes, the colour gradients and the masterful use of shape with your own two eyes.

Usually, the Louvre is one of the most popular attractions in Paris, recently causing the museum managers to cap the number of daily visitors to 30,000, however, there are much fewer visitors to Paris in January thanks to the poor weather.

That means even if you visit the museum in the daytime with a full-price ticket, it’s very likely you won’t have many people around jostling with you for a good look at Mona Lisa.

Plus, if you visit after 6 pm on the first Friday of the month, you can save yourself some cash as entry is free! Otherwise, you can  pre-book tickets here  or  organise a guided tour  if you prefer to visit with a tour guide.

Attend Mardi Gras Carnival

We might make ourselves some pancakes on Shrove Tuesday but we certainly don’t party like the French. Mardi Gras in Paris has been a long tradition, adapting itself to celebrate Lent, the Festival of Fools and the Pimprelle cows, all in one go.

Thanks to this long and colourful history you can see thousands of onlookers attending the carnival on the Sunday before Mardi Gras, with song and dance, food and drink, and beignets and bizarre outfits.

What’s more, each year has a different theme, so even if you’ve been before, you’re sure to see something unique and exciting at the Paris Carnival.

Where to Stay in Paris

La Planque Hotel – Perfect for mid-range visitors on a winter trip to the French capital, this 3-star hotel makes a great base in Paris . They have a myriad of comfortable rooms to choose from along with a buffet breakfast available to guests in the mornings.

Hôtel Jardin de Cluny – Those looking for luxury while visiting Paris in the wintertime will love this gorgeous hotel in the Latin Quarter. Excellently located for exploring all the French capital has to offer, they have countless lovely rooms to choose from along with other amenities.

My Maison In Paris Montmartre – These fully-furnished flats in the hip Montmartre neighbourhood are great if you’re looking for something different to a hotel in Paris during your winter trip to Paris. There are a range of apartments to choose from equipped with all you may need during your stay.

The People Paris Marais – If you’re looking for a great hostel while visiting Paris in the winter, then this is a great choice. Highly rated, they offer both dorms and private rooms, breakfast in the morning and great common areas for meeting other travellers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Paris hotels!

Awesome architecture and the arts are to be found all across Paris, whatever the weather or season. So if you want a festive foray, a deserted day in the city or a vibrant vacation, you can count on Paris to offer everything you need.

Are you planning a trip to Paris in winter? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

One Day in Dijon Itinerary: A Perfect Day Trip

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Montpellier Itinerary

The Perfect 1, 2 to 3 Days in Toulouse Itinerary

About Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Brittany is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Colchester, England, she is slowly but surely travelling the world as a digital nomad. She loves to hike around different landscapes and has a deep love for travelling around France (and elsewhere in Europe).

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

A Hedgehog in the Kitchen

Helping you savor International flavors through recipes and food experiences in your home kitchen or on your travels.

October 10, 2023

Paris in December – What to See, Do & Eat from Locals

Coming to Paris in December ? Live in Paris and wondering what to do in Paris in Winter ? December is the month to enjoy all things Christmas in our beautiful city, so turn on some Christmas music, sit down with a cup of French hot cocoa and plan out all the fun and festive things you will do for the month ahead!

Table of Contents

Paris in December Weather

The weather in Paris tends to be on the cold and windy, ranging from 3° – 7° C (37.4° F to 44.6° F). Sometimes it rains and sometimes it even snows. (If you get a chance to see Paris in the snow, it is really magical and you will never forget it! More on this later.) December is a beautiful time to visit Paris and see it in all of its Christmas glory.

Paris in December temperatures

• Minimum temperature:  37.4° F/ 3° C
• Maximum temperature:  44.6° F/ 7° C
• Average temperature:  39.2° F/ 4° C
• Average rainfall:  1.9 inches/ 49 millimeters

Book your skip-the-line ticket to the Louvre here!

What to pack for Paris in December

• Soft, light weight sweaters – I love traveling with one to three lightweight cashmere sweaters. I wear these all the time here in Paris too. They are light and easy to travel with and add immediate warmth and class to any outfit.
• Cozy accessories – bring a hat, scarf and gloves to keep you warm.
• Warm boots – the weather will be chilly and you will be happiest if your feet are toasty warm as you go for long walks throughout Paris.
• A sturdy umbrella – You may also want to bring a sturdy umbrella. When it rains here in Paris in Dcember, the wind tends to blow quite strongly. Or you could pick up a cute one once you’re here ( sur place !), at Monoprix.
• A high quality camera – you’ll want to make sure your camera is good quality and can capture photos in low light situations. Paris is a bit dark and overcast in December during the day and you’ll want to take photos of the seasonal decorations at night too.

Pro tip : I always recommend that people pack light when they come to Paris and leave space in their suitcase, or even pack an extra (empty) bag, if possible to have room to bring home goodies from your travels. We tend to travel with a carry-on only when we travel and try to leave some room in the suitcase for whatever we decide to buy to bring home during our trip.

10 Reasons to Visit Paris in December

• Christmas decorations and lights
• Christmas markets
• Seasonal foods and pastries
• There are photo opps everywhere
• The scent of Winter in Paris
• Christmas windows in all the boutiques
• The beautiful Christmas packaging of all of our favorite products (looking at you, macaron boxing at Laduree)
• Hot Winter drinks in all the Parisian cafes
• You might see snow
• It’s romantic

Paris in December : Things to Do

Go to the christmas markets (one of my favorite activities in paris in december).

Visiting a Parisian Christmas market in December definitely needs to be on your Paris bucketlist ! There are few things I love more in life than Christmas markets . Just writing this makes me giddy and so excited to spend time in the Parisian Christmas markets this December.

Related : Christmas in Paris

There are several Christmas markets throughout Paris. Make sure you go to the Tuileries , Le Champs de Mars and La Defense.

We have a few Christmas market traditions that we go back to year after year. We also visit the Parisian Christmas markets several times during the month of December and make sure we enjoy each of our traditions.

• Stop by the Champagne bar – Make sure you visit the Champagne bar for a glass of bubbly.
• Have a glass of mulled wine – as you walk around the market.
• Eat a Norvegian salmon sandwich – the salmon is roasted in front of your eyes over a fire and then put into a salmon sandwich.
• Try a saucisse aligot – a traditional French dish from the — region, featuring a sausage and mashed potatoes filled with — cheese from the Auvergne.

Related : Don’t Miss These 8 Foods in Paris!

We have included affiliate links in this post for your convenience. You can read our disclosures  here . Thanks for supporting A Hedgehog in the Kitchen!

Enjoy a Seine Dinner Cruise on the Seine (another fantastic Paris in December activity!)

Cruising up and down the Seine is definitely a bucket list experience, rain or shine, any time of the year. Imagine eating a luxurious, gastronomic meal on Christmas Eve in Paris while cruising down the Seine on a luxury yacht. Pure magic.

Book your Seine Dinner Cruise here!

Go to a Museum

During the colder months of the year, we love going to museums. Paris has so many fantastic museums – big and small.

If you have already visited the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay go back (there is so much more to see!), or choose one of the gorgeous smaller museums in Paris.

If you are planning to go to several museums during your time in Paris, consider getting the Paris Museums Pass which provides access to 60 museums and monuments.

Book your ticket to go up the Eiffel Tower here!

Step into the wonderful world of antique fairgrounds in Paris at the Musée des Arts Forain

Don’t miss the Musée des Arts Forains ! This treasure of a museum only opens for a handful of days each year. You can visit as part of a group or on your own. In 2023/2024, you can visit from December 27th, 2023 – January 7th 2024. Look at their website for more information.

Get your Paris Museums Pass and Get Access to 60 Museums and Monuments!

Sit in a Parisian café

Sitting in a Parisian cafe is the perfect activity any month of the year in my opinion. Paris has a fabulous coffee culture and you will love sitting in a cafe and people watching, chatting with your love or friends or reading a good book.

Related : Cafe Kitsune Paris

Go ice skating

Raise your hand if you love ice skating!

There are several places where you can ice skate in Paris during the month of December.

• La Defense Christmas Market
• Le Grand Palais
• Le Champ-de-Mars Christmas Market
• Jardin des Tuileries Christmas Market
• AccorHotels Arena
• Galeries Lafayette

Enjoy the Christmas decorations (don’t miss these if you visit Paris in December!)

I’m talking about street, cafe, restaurant and hotel decorations here. (More on window decorations later in this post.)

All of Paris is beautiful throughout December and the entire holiday season but there are a few places that have the best decorations, so you will want to make sure you visit those. It’s best to visit at night when everything is lit up.

Favorite places to see and enjoy Christmas decorations in Paris are the rue Faubourg Saint Honoré, the Champs Elysées and the Place de la Madeleine.

Visit a Christmas Crèche (A Christmas Nativity Scene)

Whether you are religious or not, it is beautiful to visit churches this time of year. In Paris, the majority of churches are Catholic and they host a Christmas crèche. Each church has their own crèche style.

Some of the best to visit are

• Eglise de la Madeleine
• Notre Dame de Paris (still closed for renovation after the terrible fire of 2019)
• Saint Germain l’Auxerrois
• Saint Sulpice
• Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre (my favorite church in Paris)

Have hot chocolate and a Mont Blanc pastry at Angelina

We love Angelina at any time of the year, but it is especially magical in December. They are famous for their African hot chocolate so make sure you order a pitcher. It is absolutely one of the best hot chocolates in Paris .

Want to really go all out? Pair your Angelina hot chocolate with a Mont Blanc pastry.

What is a Mont Blanc pastry you ask? The perfect dessert in my opinion! A French meringue center, covered with French chantilly whipped cream and wrapped in copious amounts of chestnut cream. Divine!

If the line is just too long to wait which does happen, especially on the weekend, you can skip the line to the right and head inside to order hot chocolate and a Mont Blanc to take away. (Eat it in the Tuileries across the street.) If you are just getting hot chocolate, they sometimes even put a take away “à emporter” stand outside.

Related : Non Touristy Things to Do in Paris

Go to see the giant Christmas tree at Galeries Lafayette

The Christmas tree at the Galeries Lafayette is giant and beautiful and definitely worth a visit if you are in Paris in December.

Admire the Christmas windows at Printemps and Galeries Lafayette

When I lived in the 8th arrondissement, down the street from Printemps and Galeries Lafayette, my nightly walk with our pups consisted of visiting the Christmas windows at Printemps and Galeries Lafayette all December long.

The windows are beautiful. The themes are different each year and I have a generally have a slight preference for the Printemps windows (they tend to be chicer whereas the Galeries Lafayette windows are a little kitschier), but this could change any year.

Visit early in the morning or late at night for fewer crowds.

Head to the Jardin des Plantes for a beautiful, animal-filled light show

Last year, we had the joy of attending the Espèces en Voie d’Illumination event in the Jardin des Plantes . This year the theme is the ocean with the beautiful Océan en Voie d’Illumination . We highly recommend going, it is stunning!

Take a Montmartre Cheese, Wine & Pastry Tour

Explore one of the most beautiful parts of Paris on a Montmartre Cheese, Wine & Pastry tour !

What better way to explore Paris in December than through it’s food, wine and pastries?

Book your Montmartre Cheese, Wine & Pastry Tour!

Walk through the snow in Montmartre (such a romantic activity if you happen to be here in Paris in December and it snows!)

Ok, for this one, I admit you are dependant on the weather, but I hope it snows while you’re here. Paris covered in snow is breathtaking. It doesn’t snow often, but when it does, it is absolutely gorgeous.

Two years ago, we had one magical day when Paris was covered in a blanket of snow. Hugo and I headed out early in the morning and spent the day walking through Montmartre, taking photos of the snow. Last year it snowed again and we were able to capture Palais Royal under the snow. So beautiful!

Go out for a festive meal

Paris has so many fabulous restaurants to choose from. If you will be in Paris in December and would like a lovely festive option, choose from our list below.

• Le Grand Colbert – this restaurant has been a Parisian institution since it opened its doors in 1900. It was featured in the movie “Something’s Gotta Give” as well.
• Le Train Bleu – this stunning Belle Epoque restaurant in the Gare de Lyon train station dates all the way back to 1901. They offer several different menus and a la carte dining at lunch and dinner as well.
• Brasserie La Lorraine – if your dreams of Paris involve a seafood platter, don’t miss this gorgeous brasserie. They go all out for Christmas which adds to the charm of going here for a special lunch or dinner in December.
• Verjus – this gem of a restaurant offers seasonal produce and French classics with a modern twist. They offer a special New Year’s Eve menu too.
• Bouillon Julien – this fabulous restaurant is one of the finest examples of Art Nouveau style in the World. Constructed by Edouard Fournier in 1906. In addition to being absolutely stunning, this restaurant is extremely affordable. As a “bouillon”, the concept is to serve traditional French dishes like foie gras, boeuf bourguignon, tarte tatin and more, at a very affordable price, think a saucisse puree for 10€, escargots for 8€ and salted caramel rice pudding for 3€. A fantastic deal and a memorable experience!
• Bouillon Chartier – as a traditional “bouillon”, the Bouillon Chartier also follows the delicious, traditional French food at affordable prices.

Take a Paris “New York Times Journeys” Food and Wine Tour

Take a tour inspired by the much-loved “36 Hours” travel column in “The New York Times.” Learn about the mix of architectural styles in the city. Taste delicious local food and wine and explore a lesser-known neighborhood and a covered market.

Book the Paris “New York Times Journeys” Food and Wine Tour

Go to the spa

It can be pretty cold in Paris in December. Why not head to the spa for a day of relaxation? There are several gorgeous spas in Paris to choose from. You will be spoiled for choice!

We love the Charme d’Orient Spa. The offer a variety of fantastic spa treatments for individuals and couples. You can read about our Couples Turkish Bath Experience in Paris here!

More festive experiences to have, just outside of Paris, in December

The christmas experience at vaux-le-vicomte.

Vaux-le-Vicomte is magical any time of year, but it especially incredible all decked out for the Christmas season. Read more and book your tickets directly on the Vaux-le-Vicomte website or join a small group tour and visit 3 Loire Valley châteaux in one magical day!

Where to stay in Paris

• Le Pavillon de la Reine Hotel & Spa – a gorgeous luxury hotel right in the Place des Vosges in the heart of the Marais.
• Maison Souquet – a gorgeously romantic boutique hotel in the 9th arrondissement.
• Hotel Parister – a trendy boutique hotel (complete with pool) for couples or families in the 9th arrondissement.
• Hotel du Louvre – a stunning luxury hotel across from the Palais Royal that has recently undergone a beautiful renovation.

** See more Paris accommodation to suit your style and budget here. **

More Things to Do in Paris

• Afternoon Tea at Le Meurice Paris
• Bouillon Chartier Paris
• Couples Turkish Bath Experience in Paris
• Don’t Miss These Small Museums in Paris!

Planning to visit Paris at another time?

• Paris in November

Do You Travel for Food? Plan Your Meals in Paris with Our Paris Food Guide by Clicking Below

Paris in December

Your guide to everything to see, do and eat in Paris in December.

Pin for later!

First published December 7, 2019. Last updated October 10, 2023 with more information, additional tips, and better readability.

Receive healthy, real food, International recipes & Paris tips to satisfy your wanderlust for FREE 2 times per week

Sign up to receive our recipes and FREE cooking resources available exclusively to our subscribers!

Hi new friend! Thank you for signing up to receive our healthy, wholesome recipes with a French flair! You are searching for real food recipes and we have you covered! Food is our passion and we are so happy to share that passion with you. We want to know you better and to share a bit of our Parisian life with you, so we will start this fun food journey together by sending you some of our favorite photos in 5 different Parisian neighborhoods. You will receive 1 email per day for 5 days starting tomorrow. We truly appreciate you inviting us into your inbox. A demain (talk to you tomorrow)! XOXO, Alix + Hugo

There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again.

Share the love!

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Paris Treats

How to Picnic in Paris Like a Local

Indian recipes.

Sourdough Naan

Travel adventures.

Agafay Luxury Camp Review

Thai recipes.

Thai Cashew Chicken

French recipes.

French Tomato Tart

Unique Travel Gifts for the Passionate Traveler on Your List

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

Why Paris in Winter Is Always a Good Idea — and What to Do While You're There

From ice skating and Christmas markets to fabulous hotels, there are many reasons to visit Paris in the winter. Here's a guide to the season's best offerings.

There's no such thing as a bad time to visit Paris. The city retains its romantic charm all year long, with winter offering its own unique appeal: trees and Haussmannian boulevards gleam with twinkle lights, cafes glow with red heat lamps, and department stores go all out with lavish holiday displays. While the gray gloom gets old after a while (the French have a special word for it: grisâtre ), it can provide the perfect wintry backdrop for a shorter séjour .

Whether you're looking for festive activities to fill up your holiday itinerary or wondering what to pack or where to stay, here's everything to know about how to make the most of your winter trip to Paris.

Things to Know Before You Go

Winter weather in paris.

Between December and February, temperatures in Paris tend to hover between the mid-30s and the upper 40s Fahrenheit. Dazzlingly sunny winter days aren't uncommon, but for the most part, you should prepare yourself for a grayish drizzle (made significantly more tolerable by easy access to spirit-lifting chocolat chaud or carafes of red wine). While there's a small chance you'll luck out with a white Christmas, it rarely snows in Paris, and it's typically only a dusting when it does.

What to Pack for Winter in Paris

Deciding what to take on a trip to Paris is always a challenge, given the city's legendary fashion and its extensive but exhausting walkability. For a winter visit, pack clothing and accessories that can help you traverse the streets even in less-than-perfect weather. It'll serve you well to bring waterproof shoes or rain boots , and you'll certainly want an umbrella . Invest in a chic and sturdy winter coat to complete your outfits, and pack plenty of layers to be ready for any temperature.

Holiday Closures in Paris

If there are any particular restaurants on your must-try list , be sure that they'll be open during your visit. Many restaurants take a winter break during the week between Christmas and New Year's Day, and plenty of establishments that don't take longer breaks will be closed on the actual holidays. Also, keep in mind that, throughout the year, many restaurants and shops close on Sundays and Mondays, while museums are often closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Things to Do in Paris in Winter

From ice skating in the Marais to window shopping at festively decorated department stores, there are a range of winter-specific activities to enjoy in Paris.

Ice Skating in Paris

Rent a pair of skates and glide around against the backdrop of one of Paris's most beautiful buildings: the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall), in the heart of the Marais neighborhood . Each winter, the historic landmark transforms its courtyard into a public ice skating rink, which is open daily during the season. As a bonus, it's a stone's throw from the BHV, a department store that gussies up its windows every December in true festive fashion.

Christmas Markets in Paris

From late November until early January, a panoply of chestnut-scented Christmas markets spring up around the city. Vendors in Swiss-style wooden chalets serve up every soul-warming thing you can think of — hot mulled wine and cider, wheels of raclette, and more. The most famous — and certainly most sprawling — is by the Tuileries Garden, where the market has expanded into something of an annual carnival. Other beloved markets (there's one in nearly every neighborhood) can be found next to Notre Dame and in Montmartre at Place des Abbesses.

Window Shopping in Paris

At beloved department stores like Galeries Lafayette , Printemps Haussmann , and Le Bon Marché , the holiday season comes with a host of visual (and sartorial) delights. Extravagantly festive window displays are the initial draw, with panoramas that range from smiling Santas and cancan-dancing gingerbread men to full-blown mini winter villages. Step inside the stores, though, and you'll be dazzled by the stories-high Christmas trees glittering overhead and twinkle lights decking the halls.

Winter Sales in Paris

Les soldes (the sales) take place twice a year in Paris and are a shopper's dream, with prices slashed on everything from designer clothes to home goods. The winter sales run from January to February, with markdowns majorly increasing as the weeks go by.

Museums in Paris

If the weather gets too gloomy for a stroll along the Seine, there's no shortage of excellent museums and exhibits to pop into all around the city. Whether you're a fashion fanatic, impressionist lover, or history buff, there's something for every sort of traveler. (Just note that it's always best to book tickets in advance.)

Eye-catching exhibitions this winter include the "Pop Forever Tom Wesselmann" at the Louis Vuitton Foundation , a Harriet Backer exhibit at the Musée d'Orsay , and "Figures of the Fool" at the Louvre .

Eat Pastries in Paris

The abundance of pastries in Paris can add a sweet note to your visit at any time of year. A winter-specific highlight, though, is bûche de Noël , a traditional Christmas dessert that's essentially a rolled-up sponge cake — but with endless variations and extravagant formations. You'll find the cakes all over Paris during the holidays, but some of the best come from the Ritz Paris, Hôtel Lutetia, and Pierre Hermé.

Where to Stay in Paris

Whether you're looking to splurge on the ultimate luxury experience or keep things more budget-friendly, there's a wide range of hotels to choose from.

For higher-end options, there are few places more synonymous with classic French luxury than the Ritz Paris in the 1st arrondissement (neighborhood). You'll get to check out the hotel's elegant holiday decor and iconic Ritz Bar, where you can sip astrology-themed cocktails.

Design buffs will love Philippe Starck's Brach Paris hotel in the 16th arrondissement. The property oozes new-world cool, with warm wood paneling, geometric throw pillows, and a jaw-dropping view of the Eiffel Tower from the rooftop garden (complete with a Norwegian bath). Best of all, the sprawling hotel spa includes an indoor pool, hot tub, steam room, and Himalayan salt cave.

For a more budget-friendly option, you can't go wrong with the quaint Hôtel Caron de Beaumarchais , a boutique hotel smack in the middle of the Marais. Rooms here run on the smaller side but come equipped with all the charms of old-school Paris, from exposed wooden beams to a delightful breakfast in bed.

Finally, travelers in search of quirkier lodging can try the Remix Hotel . This '80s-themed spot is located in the 19th arrondissement and features neon accents, marble bathrooms, velvet headboards, and checkerboard hallways.

Related Articles

The 15 best things to do in Paris in December 2024

What to do in paris in december.

Sunlight may be in short supply, but there’s no end of joy to find in Paris in December. C’est Noël, joie sur la terre! The boulevards and avenues light up with decorations, Christmas markets pop up, and ice skating rinks energize public spaces. If that’s not enough, the month is capped by the exuberant parties for the Réveillon de Nouvel on New Year’s Eve.

Related articles

• The 17 best things to do in Paris in November 2023

The 15 best things to do in Paris in January 2024

• the best things to do in paris throughout the year

It’s a fun time to visit the City of Light , especially if you can find time to do a few things from our pick of things to do in Paris in December.

The 15 best things to do in Paris in December

Admire magical christmas lights in paris.

Christmas markets in Paris are cozy escapes from the urban grind. Inspired by the markets of Alsace, they bring warmth and merriment to grey public spaces.

Numerous small fairs are dotted around Paris, feeding cravings for warm wine and chi-chi (sugary churros.) But the Christmas market below Notre-Dame cathedral is particularly romantic. If you had to pick one, head there. The atmosphere is just right for festive fun.

There are plenty of other great Christmas markets. Here are our favorites:

• La Défense esplanade , in the heart of the business district, is hugely popular.
• Catherine de Medici’s Tuileries Garden hosts a more understated yet very picturesque market.
• Saint Germain des Prés pulls out the stops with an entire Christmas village in the chic district.
• Les Halles is an indoor market and perfect for rainy days.

Join the New Year’s Eve party on the Champs-Élysées

A chocolatey yule log is a tradition shared across the Atlantic. There are no half-measures with gâteaux in France , and many pâtisseries strive to create delectable artworks that look as good as they taste.

Different flavors can be found as pâtisseries flex their creative skills, with each pâtisserie offering its signature version. Popping into a pâtisserie or three to find flavors you like is part of the festive fun in Paris. Although, traditionalists need not worry: there will usually be a classic chocolate confection on sale too.

You can often buy single slices. But that can only lead to regret as you crave a second slice. And then a third. But the most compelling reason to buy the whole bûche is to have a mini work of delicious edible art for your own Parisian Christmas celebration.

Where? Pâtisseries all across Paris in the days leading up to Christmas Day.

Light up shopping trips by heading to stores with the best festive displays

Most of the prettiest lumières de Noël are found in stores or major thoroughfares. But not all of them. The Christmas lights in Parc de Villette are impressive too.

The Villette lights add a festive ambiance to the green space by dressing trees and pathways around Canal de l’Ourcq with lights and lasers. Perfect for an evening stroll.

Get your ice skates on at fabulous settings around Paris

Okay. This last entry is conditional on it snowing in Paris, which is extremely rare. But it is possible in December, and if you happen to be there at the right time, you might want to join the snowy fun .

Aside from the gorgeous photos you’ll capture, you can get involved in snowball fights at parks across the city. But the inner child will probably want to go sledding. Do like the rest of Paris and head to Parc des Buttes Chaumont in the 19th.

Arguably the prettiest park in Paris , it is even more beautiful under a carpet of snow. There’s a lake, a suspension bridge, and an abundance of trees creating a magical winter wonderland effect. Most importantly, there are slopes steep enough for proper sledding.

The catch is that half the city will be there at the first hint of snow. But that creates a carnival atmosphere, making it one of the rarest and most unusual things to do in Paris in December .

Soak up the energy of cabaret for New Year

Cabaret is an utterly Parisian experience that distills the magic of the Belle Époque into a vibrant and risqué spectacle . The dance and song spectacular is one of the most uplifting things to do in Paris in December , with the color and energy quickly banishing any festive blues.

If you’re unsure what to do for New Year’s Eve, a cabaret show might be the answer. Cheap seats need early booking , and tickets can easily top €100 at the most popular venues. But it’s a night to remember, and you’ll probably get out in time to join the midnight countdown celebrations . If there is any place to visit at the last day of the year, it has to be the Moulin Rouge – We can’t ignore the most famous Cabaret. The Red Windmills (and the art of Toulouse-Lautrec) did wonders to promote the red-light legend. Home to the original can-can dancers, it’s still a crowd-pleaser.

Head out to Saint-Cloud for a light-show spectacular

The Lumières en Seine is an annual tradition that fully merits the 30-40 minute train journey from the center of Paris. It is a next-level light spectacular that invites you to follow a 1.2-mile (2km) trail at night through artistic sculptures and inventive displays. The setting was already picturesque, but is richly enhanced with luminous wonders that are one of the festive highlights in Paris.

Take your kids to see Père Noël and deliver their wish list

You don’t need an excuse to sample the delectable pastries and desserts found all over Paris. But if you do, a Parisian Christmas is surely the best time to indulge.

There are top-class pâtisseries everywhere in Paris. But there’s an enticing concentration around the colorful market on Rue Montorgueil .

Rue Montorgueil is lined with purveyors of gourmet delights, including a couple of amazing pâtisseries. Grab a Bûche de Noël or a baba au rhum from the famous Stohrer before exploring the bustling marketplace. Tell yourself you deserve all the irresistible treats you’ll end up buying. It’s Christmas, after all!

Here, we answer the most frequently asked questions to prepare you perfectly for your trip to Paris in December!

Are there any annual holidays in Paris in December?

• Public Holidays (Jours Fériés)
• 25th – Jour de Noël (Christmas Day)

What to pack for Paris in December?

You should be prepared for December in Paris, because it can get a bit icy. Hat, scarf, and gloves are in any case the basic equipment. At Christmas in Paris, it’s normal to wear some fancier clothes, so find something in your closet that is both warm and elegant.

How cold is Paris in December?

The dazzling lights of Noël make it easy to forget that winter has arrived in December. Average highs are just 45 °F (8 °C) and may occasionally drop to zero. Rainfall is ever-present in Paris (14–15 days on average). If you’re lucky, you may see a sprinkle of snow transform the city into a romantic winter wonderland . But don’t count on it; December only sees an average of 1.8 days of snow.

What to wear in Paris in December?

The motto for December in Paris is the proven onion look! The casual dresscode in Paris is quite fancy, and you can wear high boots and elegant cloths as an everyday look.

There is so much to explore and discover during winter, especially during December in Paris: romantic ice-skating, hot beverages on the fuzzy Christmas market and amazing boat cruises under a beautiful night sky are only some of the highlights!

The 17 best things to do in Paris in November 2024

The best things to do in Paris throughout the year

I am an absolute travel enthusiast with a great love for the USA, Spain and Italy. And England. And France. You can find lots of travel inspiration from me regularly on our YouTube-channel .

Get exclusive content, real insider info and the best travel deals completely FREE!

Your trip start: We’ll provide you with little reminders to prepare for your trip and up-to-the-minute events when you’re traveling!

You have disabled JavaScript

JavaScript is required to use this website. Therefore, please enable JavaScript in your browser to visit this website.

You are currently viewing a placeholder content from Facebook . To access the actual content, click the button below. Please note that doing so will share data with third-party providers.

Visiting Paris in December – The definitive guide

Things to do in Paris Paris Travel Guide Best Time to Visit Paris Paris in December

Paris , the mesmerizing capital of France doesn't require an elaborate introduction. Steeped in history and culture with its iconic landmarks, impeccable art, and delectable cuisine, Paris welcomes close to 30 million tourists, annually. The city's charming cobble-stoned streets, adorned with elegant architecture and quaint cafes, invites exploration at every turn. From the magnificent Eiffel Tower to the majestic Lourve museum, Paris boasts of a history so rich, one can only experience it by being there. Head out on an unforgettable journey to the 'City of Light' to seek an authentic taste of French charm and elegance.

What makes Paris in December special?

The City of Light, Paris , cools down in December, right in time for Christmas and New Year’s Eve. While the temperature is nippy around these months, it is an ideal time to experience Paris without its peak season chaos. Christmas in Paris is truly a magical experience, with twinkling lights and charming decorations, creating a festive atmosphere. Paris in December also brings you an opportunity to cosy up inside a cafe with a book and a cup of hot chocolate, as you watch the snow fall or sit in a wine-bar, sipping mulled wine. While you may be at the receiving end of Paris’ winter, December is definitely a promising time to indulge in traditional French delicaices, festive treats, and a delightful array of artisanal crafts.

Paris weather in December

Paris in December experiences cold weather. This could range anywhere from mild snowfall, to rain or just cool wind. The temperature around this month drops down to 7 degrees and can go upto 3 degrees, minimum. While snowfall is rare, it is best to pack gumboots to avoid slush on the ground.

Must-see in December

The eiffel tower.

A trip to Paris in incomplete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. While the view from the top is stunning any time of the year, what makes December special are the festive lights adorning the landmark and the less crowd allows you to have a more enjoyable time!

Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, Paris Getting There ›

Paris Catacombs

December is a great month to visit the dingy catacombs because you can skip the otherwise three hour long queues and also escape the cold weather above the ground. Uncover Paris's dark past in this underground ossuary, dimly lit to create an atmosphere of mystery and fascination.

Catacombs, 1 avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy,75014 Paris Getting There ›

A sprawling collection of art and history alike, Louvre is a cultural hotspot for those interested in a piece of Paris’ history. This December the Musee du Louvre along with the State Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg are joining hands in December for an outstanding exhibition based on the collection built up by the Marquis Campana . This exhibition will loosely feature around 12,000 archeological objects, paintings, sculptures and will provide an overview of 19th century’s largest private collection.

Musée du Louvre, 75001 Paris, France Getting There ›

Bateaux Mouches Dinner Cruise

Set sail on the Bateaux Parisien’s luxurious ride that takes you through the illuminated waterways of Paris. Witness the city in all its nighttime glory. The nippy weather in December also gives a perfect excuse to cosy up on this exclusively romantic cruise ride.

Port Solferino, 23 Quai Anatole france France Getting There ›

Moulin Rouge Show with Champagne

As you sip on a tall, sparkling glass of champagne, experience the sparkling lights and the energetic performance of a passionate cabaret troupe at Moulin Rouge. With some of the finest performers from around the world performing a breath-taking show ‘Feerie’, cabaret in Paris simply should not be missed.

Paris City Vision Agency , 2 rue des pyramides, France Getting There ›

Sainte Chapelle Christmas Concerts

Get into the Christmas spirit by attending a soulful Christmas concert at Saint Chapelle. Marvel at the painted glass windows, gothic architecture and the beautiful Christmas decorations as you sit back and enjoy the performance.

8 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris, France Getting There ›

Seine Dinner Cruise

Serenade your partner and enjoy the banks of the Seine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on this incredible dinner cruise. The heated batobus will keep you cozy for the entire 1.15-hour long cruise and the 3-course dinner with a glass of wine; will keep you wishing the cruise never ends.

Disneyland Paris

An outing fit for both family and friends, Disneyland Paris celebrates Christmas this year with a host of festivities and frolic. Tailor-made for all age groups, the park is organising a grand mouse-party that involves Disney’s Christmas Parade, Nighttime Show — Goofy’s Incredible Show and #NOELSUPERSTAR amongst a few.

Boulevard de Parc, 77700 Coupvray, France Getting There ›

Paris in December: Events to look out for

Ice skating rinks

There couldn’t be a better way to bring out the child in you! Paris in December witnesses a number of ice skating rinks. The Eiffel Tower rink lends an incredible view of the city from its first level. Enjoy several snow sports apart from ice skating at the Hotel de Ville and a stroll around the Christmas market located next to the Trocadéro ice rink.

Champs-Elysées

Experience a scintillating show of lights and illuminations light up one of the most prime streets of Paris. Apart from a sprawling shopping arcade, the iconic Champs Elysees is considered to be the place to be at for Christmas if you’re in Paris.

Christmas village in Trocadero

Dates: December 8, 2023 - January 2, 2024

A holiday tradition in Paris, visit to the Trocadero Christmas Village is a must during your trip in December. A stone’s throw away from the Eiffel Tower, there are a number of activities apart from shopping during its course that lasts upto January. Pick up your favourite Christmas souvenirs apart from gifts and delicacies being available in this market.

Africolour Music Festival

Dates: November 17 - December 24, 2023

This year the Africolour Music Festival will find its roots in the heart of Paris. Watch them make the stage come alive with their passionate music and groovy songs. The award-winning group portray their struggle and find themselves shunning the pre-conceived rules of the society.

Paris in December : 5-day itinerary

Check out our carefully curated itineraries and plan your visit to Paris better. Whether you're visiting Paris for 1 day , 3 days or 5 days ; our itineraries packed with top experiences and traveler tips are bound to come handy.

5 days in Paris itinerary

Eiffel Tower

Musée de l’Orangerie & Musée de Orsay

Arc De Triomphe

Cabaret With Champagne

Palace of Versailles

Center Pompidou

Paris By Night Bus Tour

Louvre Museum

Sainte Chapelle & Conciergerie

Walkabout in Montmartre

Paris december essentials.

Language French

Time zone GMT+2

Country Code +33

Socket Type C & E

Currency Euros €

Where to stay

For many, planning a trip to Paris can be the trip of a lifetime. Which is why, it is important to choose your stay accordingly. There are several budget friendly hotels, hostels to luxurious Air BnBs available for tourists as well as travellers. Here are a couple of them you can consider for your next trip:

• Luxury hotels - Four Seasons George V , Relais Christine , Hotel The Peninsula Paris , Grand Hotel Du Palais and Shangri-La
• Budget hotels - Hotel Chopin , Hotel Ibis , ANCHOR TEXT Hotel Regent Montmarte , and Hotel Little Regina .

Things to pack

Bundle up! While the temperatures in Paris does not dip beyond 3 degrees, it is always wise to carry warm woollen sweaters, scarves and long coats. It is important to carry an umbrella along as it tends to rain erratically during the month of December. Pack enough shoes as per your daily need, however, keep in mind that the snowy slush can create a slippery environment to walk on. Reserve your good shoes for an indoor event. Don’t forget to carry waterproof gloves and a head gear.

Getting around Paris

Paris has an impressive public transport system that facilitates easy connectivity throughout the city. Managed by the RAPT, it comprises of the Metro (underground), RER Suburban Express Train (which interconnects with the metro), trams, buses, cabs and Noctilien (night bus). Paris and all of its suburbs are segregated into six parts. As a tourist, zone 1 and zone 2 cover some of the most important parts of the city as well as the metro lines. You can use RAPT tickets as well as passes on metro, trains or trams respectively. For easy accessibility, metro is an efficient mode of transport that will connect you to almost every suburb of Paris, and sometimes even beyond the city limits. Cabs may be reliable but are slightly on the steeper side when it comes to budget.

What to eat?

Best known for its baked treats, Pain Au Chocolat is a delicacy enjoyed by both children and adults alike. It involves a buttered croissant role with chocolate fill on the inside. Ideal as a treat to pick on the go, Pain Au Chocolat is best enjoyed in a cosy cafe. Enjoy this delicious sweet treat in Blé Sucre .

The iconic baguette has almost earned a UNESCO recognition, however it is more than just a bread loaf that makes this type a special one. Baguettes are basic lean dough that are often associated with their long and crisp exterior. You can get a baguette from a boulangere or a local bakery.

A type of a very crisp pastry, crepes are an all-time favourite street food in Paris. You can spot vendors selling crepes in every nook and corner. Usually, two types of crepes are made — savoury and sweet — that can be enjoyed with eggs or chocolate respectively. Don’t forget to gorge on the best crepes in Paris that are found in the Breizh Cafe.

Or steak with fries is a common delicacy around Europe, however Paris boasts of some of the best varieties possible. This classic dish can be paired up with potato, cheese and garlic as per your request. Experience this plateful of delicious indulgence at the Le Relais de l’Entrecôte in Paris.

With France being the birth place of the macaron, it is only natural to find these being served a plenty around the city. The sweet confectionary is made using a meringue-based cream that is whipped up with egg white, icing sugar and almond powder. Available in several flavours and colours, macarons are best available at Laduree .

Tips to visit Paris in December

• Since it gets dark as early as 5 PM, it is a great opportunity to visit several monuments that are lit up during the festive season.
• Indulge in hot beverages at Paris’ many-a-cute cafes. Don’t forget to sip on the famous hot chocolate.
• A great idea to tour the city is using the hop on hop off bus . This will help you save on some time and be more economical.
• It is advisable to keep a warm coat or a woollen sweater handy as the temperature can drop down during at night.
• Some monuments tend to remain closed in the winter season so make sure you do your research well before you plan your day.

What are the top things to do in Paris in December? 

Paris in December has plenty to offer - from the many ice-skating rinks in the city to the famous Christmas Village in Trocadero! You can also visit the Eiffel Tower , Paris Catacombs , Louvre Museum and other iconic attractions through the month.

What is the temperature in Paris in December?

The temperature in Paris in December sees highs of 8°C and lows of 4°C. Expect rainfall and snowfall throughout the month.

What are the best day trips to take from Paris in December?

While all of France is pretty cold through the month of December, here are a few getaway destinations from Paris - Versailles , Normandy and the Loire Valley . Read on to know more about the best day trips from Paris in December.

What is an ideal itinerary for visiting Paris in December?

Depending on the number of days you’d like to visit Paris, here are a few tailor made itineraries for visiting Paris in December:

Is December a good time to visit Paris?

Yes! With fewer crowds (barring the days around Christmas) and a magical weather, Paris in December is an attractive travel destination.

Explore Paris by the months

Ready to visit Paris?

For more detailed Paris guides, here are some helpful quick links!

Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

Be a smart traveler

The first to know about trending destinations, travel deals, tips and all things travel.

• Top Things to do
• Paris Tours
• Attractions
• Disneyland® Paris Tickets
• Eiffel Tower Tickets
• Louvre Museum Tickets
• Versailles Tickets
• Arc De Triomphe Tickets
• Opera Garnier Paris Tickets
• Big Bus Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Tickets
• Moulin Rouge Paris Tickets
• Parc Astérix Paris Tickets
• Paris Catacombs Tour & Tickets
• Sainte Chapelle Tickets
• Orsay Museum Tickets
• Paris Pantheon Tickets
• Invalides - Paris Army Museum Tickets
• Crazy Horse Paris Tickets
• Eurail Passes
• Musee de l'Orangerie Tickets
• Rodin Museum Tickets
• Walking Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Theme Parks
• Water Parks
• Sightseeing Cruises
• Dinner Cruises
• Lunch Cruises
• Travel Guide
• Things to do
• Trip Planner
• Where to Eat
• Where to Stay
• Neighbourhoods
• Family Travel
• Festivals and Events
• Travel Tips

A Guide to Visiting Paris in December | Attractions, Weather & Museums

Picture this – the Eiffel Tower is decked out in festive colors, sparkling décor, and Christmas lights. As December rolls around, the streets of Paris are marked with Christmas cheer and the buzz of the holiday spirit. This is your chance to experience an unforgettable time in Paris during December and celebrate Christmas like a Parisian local. As you bundle up in warm clothes and explore the cheery avenues of the City of Lights, you will surely come to appreciate this time of the year amid this city's culturally rich atmosphere.

Is December a Good Time to Visit Paris?

Visiting Paris in December offers a unique glimpse at this iconic city, clothed in winter colors and shrouded in a blanket of snow. Experience a Christmas you will never forget in the City of Lights.

Why You Should Visit 

• Paris transforms into a winter wonderland as December rolls around and blankets the city in hues of blue and white.
• You’ll be able to watch the city gear up for Christmas with plenty of enchanting decorations and lights on every corner and at every venue in the city.
• The Eiffel Tower is the only Parisian attraction that is open every day of the year, including on Christmas Day. Visiting Paris in December will allow you the chance to experience a breathtaking view of the city from the lit-up Eiffel Tower, decked out in Christmas colors.
• The view of Paris’ monuments in Christmas lights is an unmissable sight, each venue rivaling the next in their effort and creativity to celebrate Christmas. 

What to Look Out For

• If spending time in a chilly climate is not your favorite, you may not enjoy a visit to Paris during December. It does snow in December, making the weather quite chilly. 
• Although there is a lot to do in Paris during December, the days grow shorter so you may find it difficult to fit your day’s activities into the few sunlight hours every day.
• You will miss out on a colorful view of the beautiful gardens at Versailles, the Tuileries, and Luxembourg Gardens which are at their vibrant best during the summer.
• Of course, visiting Paris in December is a magical experience due to the spirit of Christmas. However, prepare for overcrowded attractions during your visit.

Overview of Weather in Paris in December

Although Paris experiences chilly winds and snow in December, you’ll be able to enjoy the sights with warm drinks and appropriate outerwear. Here’s a rundown of the weather in Paris in December.

• Average Temperature:  High 8°C | Low 4°C
• Average Rainfall:  27 mm
• Average Snowfall: 1 mm
• Daily Wind Speed:  17.2 mph
• Average Daylight : 8.3 Hours

More About Weather in Paris in December   

How hot is Paris in December?

Paris is pretty cold during December, with a maximum temperature of 8°C and a minimum temperature of 4°C.

Does it rain in Paris in December?

Paris can get rainy during December, with an average of 27 mm of rainfall throughout the month.

Is Paris windy in December?

Yes, Paris can be windy in December, with an average wind speed of 17.2 mph during the month.

Does it snow in Paris in December?

Paris experiences snow from December to Febrauary. So you can expect to see snowfall taking place in December.

Best Things to do in Paris in December

1. Eiffel Tower

City landmark.

Every year, the Eiffel Tower pulls out all the stops for its iconic Christmas decorations, with colorful Christmas colors and cheery lights all across the structure. If you’re visiting Paris in December, you should definitely visit the Eiffel Tower as it is one of the few attractions that remain open on Christmas.

2. Louvre Museum 

Museum | learning experience.

The Louvre is home to some of the world’s most prized artworks and is the largest and most frequented museum globally. Visiting this legendary museum in December can be a thrilling experience owing to the special exhibitions and special Christmas decorations that grace the halls.

3. Disneyland Paris

Themepark | kid-friendly.

Disneyland Paris is the ultimate spot to celebrate the holiday cheer and immerse yourself in magical Christmas decorations. To this mix, add a bunch of thrilling adventure rides and friendly Disney mascots, and you’ve got yourself a holiday celebration like no other!

4. Arc de Triomphe

City landmark | historic arch.

Regardless of which month you’re visiting Paris in, you should certainly pay a visit to this symbolic arch that commemorates the lives of soldiers who served during the French Revolution and the Napoleonic wars. Apart from its historical significance, the Arc de Triomphe is known for its neoclassical architecture. Visit the top to take in a breathtaking view of the city.

5. Seine River Cruises

Cruise | sightseeing.

What better way to absorb the Christmas spirit in Paris than through a cruise down the Seine. This river winds through the heart of Paris and will take you past some of the most legendary landmarks of the city, all outfitted in festive decorations. Make the experience even more memorable by sitting down to a hearty meal with some fine wine, as you let the city’s holiday cheer wash over you.

6. Versailles Palace

Historic palace | learning experience.

Prepare to feel like you’re in a period drama as you explore one of the finest symbols of 17th-century French art and architecture at the Versailles Palace. Situated about 40 minutes from the city of Paris, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit. Heading here in December is the perfect way to experience the full force of the dark academia aesthetic and adopt the guise of a brooding traveler.

7. Christmas Markets

Seasonal event.

Nothing comes close to matching the Christmas spirit than by visiting one of the many thrilling Parisian Christmas markets. Get some Christmas shopping done and browse for souvenirs and presents alike as you explore the glittering stalls lining the colorful avenues of Paris. These markets are also a street-food hub with some delectable French favorites you must try.

8. Christmas Eve or New Year Cruise

Holiday cruise.

Huddle up with your loved ones as you glide down the Seine for a special Christmas Eve cruise through the City of Lights. You can opt for a cruise that lasts a few hours on Christmas Eve, open your presents while out on the water, or even spend multiple days aboard the cruise ship as you auger in the new year with festivities and cheer while sightseeing with your near and dear ones.

9. Chanel Exhibition

Fashion exhibition.

If you live, breathe and sleep all things fashion, then a visit to this retrospective showcase of the iconic work of Gabrielle Chanel is a must. As you browse through over 350 famous pieces associated with this fashion icon, you’ll definitely be struck with inspiration for some timeless holiday looks to recreate while you’re in Paris. Make the most of your December wardrobe and enjoy a slice of fashion history.

10. Avenue des Champs-Elysées

City street.

Nothing compares to strolling down one of Paris’ most popular avenues on a crisp December night, as you stand surrounded by twinkling lights and festive cheer. Watch the stream of lights all the way from the Place de l’Etoile, and the Arc de Triomphe – right down to the Place de la Concorde. 

11. Eiffel Tower Christmas Village

City landmark | seasonal event.

This attraction is exactly what it sounds like – a quaint little village-like setup at the base of the Eiffel Tower. You can visit this charming pop-up to explore a variety of festive stands, where you can browse gifts and souvenirs. Feel free to sample the seasonal fares from the food trucks as well.

12. Christmas Concert at La Sainte-Chapelle

Historic chapel | entertainment.

Commissioned by King Louis IX as a space to house his collection of religious and cultural relics, this 13th-century architectural marvel is a favorite among travelers visiting Paris. Head here for one of their marvelous Christmas concerts and feel the festive spirit surrounding you.

Top Experiences & Things to do in Paris in December

Festivals in paris in december.

Disney Enchanted Christmas 2023

Date:  11th November 2023 to 7th January 2024

Venue:  Disneyland Paris

Step into the enchanting world of Disney Enchanted Christmas 2023 festival! This winter wonderland invites you to celebrate the season with your favorite Disney characters and become a part of Mickey's Fun Christmas Parade, participate in "Disney Dreams!" Christmas event with Olaf and Anna amongst many others and enjoy the Meet and Greet with the star of the Christmas show - Santa!

Paris Autumn Festival

Date:  7th September, 2023 to 11th February 2024

Venue:  Several sites in Paris

The Paris Autumn Festival is a celebration of art forms from diverse backgrounds. This festival was founded in 1972, after which it grew into an annual event. Book your tickets to get a taste of France’s rich cultural art forms. With shows from theater, music, visual arts, dance, and film, you’ll be able to attend the festival in around 40 venues hosting different shows across the city.

Events in Paris in December

The World of Banksy: The Immersive Experience

Dates: Open Everyday

Venue: 44 Rue du Faubourg Montmartre

Immerse yourself in enchanting reproductions of over 100 works by the famous and mysterious street artist, Banksy. You can also visit a recreation of ‘The Walled Off Hotel’.

Sainte-Chapelle Concert Series

Date: 21st December 2023 to 31st December 2023 (except 25th December)

Venue: La Sainte-Chapelle

This French-Gothic church with stunning stained glass windows is the venue for annual Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve concerts. Sainte-Chapelle hosts more concerts than any other Paris church, with over 100 classical musical performances by soloists and ensembles taking place here every year.

Know Before You Visit Paris in December

• Time Zone:  Central European Standard Time (GMT+1)
• Currency:  Euro | EUR | €
• Country Code:  +33
• Emergency Numbers:  Dial 112 to request the relevant service (police, fire service, or ambulance)

What to Wear in Paris in December

• Turtlenecks, hooded windbreakers, gloves, woolen hats, and thermal innerwear are a staple.
• Reach for cozy woolen sweaters and fleece-lined jackets to stay warm while exploring the city’s streets.
• Layering is the best way to preserve body heat without resorting to bulky jackets.
• Long-sleeved tops under your outerwear will be an added layer of insulation.
• Your go-to accessory will be thick socks as snow blankets the city.

What to Pack in Paris in December

• Power Adapter:  Type E
• Clothes: Woolens sweaters, cozy jumpers, sturdy jackets.
• Bring at least 2 pairs of waterproof shoes and make sure that they provide good traction in case of snowfall or ice. 
• A sturdy umbrella is a must for exploring the outdoors.
• Carry a windbreaker with a hood, and some fingerless gloves to warm your hands.

Getting Around Paris in December

By Métro: The Paris Metro is both reliable and fast, taking you to any destination within the city limits as well as across town. The metro has 14 lines and has stops at 303 stations.  Metro Map of Paris

By Bus: The buses are also a fantastic way to get to know Paris and its many attractions. Bus stops are located all over the city, with routes that travel through and out of the city.  Bus Map of Paris

By Tram: There are six different tram lines in the city, so be sure to know which one you need to take. Tickets can be purchased at vending machines located at each tram stop, and they start from €1.50. Tramway Map of Paris

Where to Stay in Paris in December

Choose from a range of accommodation options while visiting Paris in December.

• Budget:  Hotel Montparnasse Alésia |  Hôtel Home Moderne Paris | Hôtel de Venise Paris 12
• Mid-Range:  Louison Hotel |  Hôtel Left Bank Saint Germain des Prés | Les Jardins d'Eiffel
• Luxury:  Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel |  Four Seasons Hotel George V |  Bvlgari Hôtel Paris

What to eat in Paris in December

Here are some French delicacies and signature Parisian dishes that you simply can't skip trying while visiting Paris . Keep your eyes open for these Christmas specials while in Paris.

• Foie gras:  This delicacy is made from the liver of a duck or a goose, and although it may not be for everyone’s palette – it is an important dish for the French with Christmas bringing this signature dish to the fore.
• Boeuf Bourguignon: This stewed beef broth is a staple for a lot of French families at Christmas time and is even served piping hot at Christmas markets to snack on while you browse for wares.
• Bûche de Noël (Yule Log):  This is one of the most traditional desserts to grace a French dining table. This dish consists of a cake layered with buttercream, which is sculpted and shaped to look like a tree log.

Tips to Visit Paris in December  

• While packing, make sure you leave some room in your luggage to carry your Christmas shopping finds back home.
• In order to avoid the hassle of juggling multiple bookings, you can consider opting for multi-site tickets through which different attractions in the city can be combined in a single ticket. 
• In anticipation of the Christmas rush, do remember to make your bookings and reservations well before your visit to avoid missing your preferred dates.
• Make the effort to download a map of Paris, and mark different areas of interest with key colors for ease of access during your trip.
• It will also be helpful to find a map of the public transit network so you can get around the city faster, and easily.
• To find your way back to your hotel, practice the pronunciation of the neighborhood’s name so that locals can guide you. Nonetheless, it is important to save the coordinates of your hotel so you can locate it even without directions from locals.
• Crowded areas are usually filled with pickpockets, so keep an eye on your belongings.
• For those traveling with kids who aren’t old enough to have cellphones, it will be wise to mutually decide upon an easily visible rendezvous point in case you get separated during Christmas shopping.
• Since the canals and river banks can be dangerous places to drink, be cautious if you pop open a bottle.
• Instead of burning a hole in your pockets, opt for money-saving day passes when you use the public transport system.
• The RATP app is a permanent fixture on every Parisian’s phone. It is a handy guide to the city’s public transport and since it works offline, you won’t end up with outrageous roaming charges.

Explore Paris Through The Year

All your questions about visiting paris in december answered.

December is a great time to visit Paris as it allows you to experience the festive cheer of Christmas in this iconic French city with all its celebrations, leaving you with unforgettable memories.

December means Christmas is in the air – and Paris is no different, this time of the year. You can visit some of the city’s famous Christmas markets, or watch the colorful cabaret shows the city has popularized. Definitely book tickets to attend a Christmas concert at one of the city’s magnificent churches. Here are the best things to do in Paris in December.

Yes, Paris gets quite chilly in the month of December since the mercury drops with temperatures as low as 4°C.

The maximum temperature Paris experiences during December is 8°C.

It is not a great idea to take a dip given the cold climate of Paris during December.

Although sunny days in Paris are few and far in between during December, you may get lucky with a few warm afternoons.

Sturdy and warm winter wear is the ideal wardrobe for exploring the city of Paris during December. Bundle up in cozy sweaters, windbreakers, and carry woolen scarves, hats, and gloves.

The average rainfall in Paris during December is around 27 mm. So you can certainly expect to experience rainy days during your visit.

Although Paris can be expensive to visit, you can make the most of your budget by making advance bookings wherever possible. If you’re keen on visiting several attractions, it would also be a good idea to opt for multi-site bookings or combination tickets.

Paris is considered a moderately safe city by travelers. But do keep an eye out for pickpockets in crowded places.

Paris in December is a winter wonderland filled with enchanting decorations and colorful lights to auger in the spirit of Christmas. You should definitely visit the Eiffel Tower, as it is the only Parisian attraction that remains open all year round, and even on Christmas Day. Do visit the Louvre and Versailles Palace, and head to the city’s churches for some heartfelt Christmas carol concerts.

Apart from the striking concerts and shows taking place in this culturally rich city throughout the year, visiting Paris in December will allow you to be a part of some spectacular celebrations, including special Christmas Eve concerts, The World of Banksy: The Immersive Experience, and lots more.

Paris during December gets pretty cold, with a minimum temperature of 4°C and a maximum temperature of 8°C.

Visiting Paris with kids is a great opportunity for educational experiences and to teach them about events and artworks of historical and cultural significance. But if your young ones simply want a day of fun, take them to Disneyland Paris where they are sure to have the time of their lives on thrilling rides, while interacting with their favorite Disney mascots.

Among Paris’ various cultural events and festivals, there are plenty of events to be at and things to do in December. You can book tickets to the Paris Autumn Festival for an experience rich with art and culture. Or simply head to the Thoiry Wild Lights Show for a beautiful spectacle of lights accompanied by your favorite animals from Thoiry Zoo.

• Virginia Beach
• History & facts
• Famous people
• Famous landmarks
• AI interviews
• Science & Nature
• Tech & Business

Discover something new everyday

• Famous places
• Food & Drinks
• Tech & Business

Paris - By month

Things to do in Paris in December

Read Next →

Top 15 Interesting Facts about The Renaissance

10 Best Techno Clubs in Paris

Dating Etiquette in Taiwan: 25 Tips for Men Looking to Meet Women

Go check the adorable christmas markets.

Go ice skating with the locals

Admire the Christmas decorations

Explore Paris first district

Have a hot chocolate

Planning a trip to Paris ? Get ready !

These are  Amazon’s best-selling  travel products that you may need for coming to Paris.

• The best travel book : Rick Steves – Paris 2023 –  Learn more here
• Fodor’s Paris 2024 –  Learn more here

Travel Gear

• Venture Pal Lightweight Backpack –  Learn more here
• Samsonite Winfield 2 28″ Luggage –  Learn more here
• Swig Savvy’s Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle –  Learn more here

Check Amazon’s best-seller list for the most popular travel accessories. We sometimes read this list just to find out what new travel products people are buying.

Clémence grew up in the south of Paris. She studies politics and history at Sciences Po, in Saint-Germain. From long visits at the Louvre to carefree afternoons on the banks, she has childhood memories in every corner of Paris. Theater, cinema, photography, macarons, cheese, wine, exhibits, museums, parties... Paris is everything to her!

Hello & Welcome

Free walking tours in Paris

Top 5 Tours & Sightseeing in Paris

• Tickets for Louvre Museum
• Musée d'Orsay Reserved Access
• Free Montmartre Tour
• Guided Tour of the Eiffel Tower + Summit access
• Arc de Triomphe: Skip The Line + Rooftop Access

with GetYourGuide and Tiqets

Popular Articles

Top 20 Streets to See in Paris

Paris in two days

Top 15 Things to do Around the Eiffel Tower

The Best Way to Visit Paris Museums

Top 15 Fashion Stores in Le Marais

Visit europe with discover walks.

• Paris walking tours
• Montmartre walking tour
• Lisbon walking tours
• Prague walking tours
• Barcelona walking tours
• Private tours in Europe
• Privacy policy

© 2024 Charing Cross Corporation