December Packing List for Paris — What to Wear & Bring

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

• Heavy wool coatEssential

  December's 48°F highs and high humidity require a warm, structured coat for strolling through the Tuileries Christmas market.

• Cashmere sweaterEssential

  Cashmere offers superior warmth for the 39°F lows while remaining thin enough to layer comfortably for a dinner in Le Marais.

• Heat-tech thermal base layerEssential

  A thermal top is essential for staying warm during long periods spent outdoors viewing the holiday windows on the Boulevard Haussmann.

• Insulated waterproof bootsEssential

  With 11 days of rain, insulated boots are a must for keeping feet warm and dry while walking across the Île de la Cité.

• Extra-warm wool socksEssential

  Thick wool socks are vital for keeping toes comfortable during the damp 39°F evenings in the city center.

• Thick wool scarfEssential

  A large, warm scarf is a Parisian winter staple to block the biting wind that tunnels along the Seine quays.

• Lined glovesEssential

  Warm gloves are essential for the damp 40°F air while visiting the open-air Christmas markets in Paris.

• Windproof umbrellaEssential

  With 11 precipitation days, a strong umbrella is a mandatory daily carry to handle the frequent December drizzles.

Clothing

• Heavy wool coatEssential

  December's 48°F highs and high humidity require a warm, structured coat for strolling through the Tuileries Christmas market.

• Cashmere sweaterEssential

  Cashmere offers superior warmth for the 39°F lows while remaining thin enough to layer comfortably for a dinner in Le Marais.

• Heat-tech thermal base layerEssential

  A thermal top is essential for staying warm during long periods spent outdoors viewing the holiday windows on the Boulevard Haussmann.

• Warm wool trousersRecommended

  Wool or heavy cotton trousers are preferred over casual leggings for the refined atmosphere of the 8th arrondissement in December.

• Velvet or silk blouseRecommended

  A festive, polished top is perfect for holiday dinners and transitions well from a museum visit to a nice evening out.

Footwear

• Insulated waterproof bootsEssential

  With 11 days of rain, insulated boots are a must for keeping feet warm and dry while walking across the Île de la Cité.

• Polished leather loafersRecommended

  Loafers are a chic choice for an evening out at the Opéra Garnier where sneakers may feel out of place.

• Dressy evening shoesOptional

  A pair of heels or refined flats is recommended for the many holiday parties and upscale dinners happening in December.

• Extra-warm wool socksEssential

  Thick wool socks are vital for keeping toes comfortable during the damp 39°F evenings in the city center.

Accessories

• Thick wool scarfEssential

  A large, warm scarf is a Parisian winter staple to block the biting wind that tunnels along the Seine quays.

• Lined glovesEssential

  Warm gloves are essential for the damp 40°F air while visiting the open-air Christmas markets in Paris.

• Sleek knit beanieRecommended

  A hat helps retain heat during late-night walks near the Eiffel Tower when the temperature drops toward 39°F.

• Windproof umbrellaEssential

  With 11 precipitation days, a strong umbrella is a mandatory daily carry to handle the frequent December drizzles.