Will I need a jacket in Paris in December?

Yes — average lows hit about 39°F, so plan on a warm jacket and a sweater layer.

Is December rainy in Paris?

Expect roughly 11 days of rain across the month. Pack a compact umbrella and shoes that can handle wet pavement.

How should I layer for Paris in December?

With a daily range of about 39°F–48°F, plan on layers you can add or shed: a base layer, a mid-weight top, and an outer layer for the cool ends of the day.

Packing List

December Packing List for Paris — What to Wear & Bring

December in Paris is magical with holiday lights and Christmas markets, despite the damp 48°F highs and 11 days of rain. High humidity makes the 39°F lows feel quite sharp. Pack a heavy wool coat, thermal layers, and waterproof boots to stay warm and dry while enjoying the city's festive atmosphere.

Averages 3948°F, ~11 days of rain

Edited by ForecastStyle·Last updated May 1, 2026

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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.

Local tips for Paris in December

December in Paris is peak holiday season; make sure to visit the massive Christmas market at the Tuileries Garden and the festive lights on the Champs-Élysées.

The window displays at Galeries Lafayette and Printemps are a major local attraction in December; arrive early to avoid the largest crowds.

Try the traditional 'Vin Chaud' (mulled wine) at the Christmas markets; it's the perfect way to warm up after a 45°F afternoon of sightseeing.

FAQ — Paris in December

Yes — average lows hit about 39°F, so plan on a warm jacket and a sweater layer.
Expect roughly 11 days of rain across the month. Pack a compact umbrella and shoes that can handle wet pavement.
With a daily range of about 39°F–48°F, plan on layers you can add or shed: a base layer, a mid-weight top, and an outer layer for the cool ends of the day.