Sporty
Rain Jacket Zip Layer
A black rain jacket over a white zip-up hoodie is the light-rain sporty combination that stays clean in colour. Fleece leggings and Chelsea boots handle the rest.
What to Wear in Paris in December
When visiting Paris in December, wear a heavy wool coat, thermal basics, and waterproof boots to handle the 39–48°F range and 11 days of rain. The city is at its rainiest this month, and the historic cobblestones of Le Marais can become notoriously slick and hazardous when wet.
Also packing for this trip?
Full December packing list for Paris →
Checklist of clothes, shoes, and gear — separate from these outfit ideas.
Plan your stay
Hotels in Paris
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Dates prefilled: Dec 1–42 guests
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What to wear
top / Long-Sleeve Top
fitted long-sleeve
bottom / Jeans
straight-leg
chinos for a slightly smarter look
footwear / Waterproof Boots
ankle boots
rubber sole for traction — keep feet dry all day
outerwear / Rain Jacket
shell jacket
waterproof or DWR-treated — keep it packable
Consider bringing:
Umbrella
Based on typical December conditions in Paris. Weather varies year to year — check the live forecast when you're within two weeks of your trip.
December in Paris is a season of brilliant festive lights and a persistent, humid chill that blankets the city from the Eiffel Tower to the Saint-Germain-des-Prés markets. The 39–48°F temperatures are accompanied by 11 days of precipitation, making it the rainiest month and requiring a serious commitment to warm, water-resistant layers. A significant visitor pain point in December is the combination of cold dampness and the uneven, slippery cobblestones in neighborhoods like Le Marais and the Latin Quarter. The high humidity means that even the 48°F daytime highs feel bone-chilling, especially when caught in the wind-tunnel effect along the Seine quays while viewing the city's holiday decorations.
Curated Looks
Cute
Lilac Vest Cream Stack
Flatters tall framesFlatters long-torso framesFlatters smaller busts
A pastel lilac vest over a cream cardigan and wide-leg sweatpants reads softly in light rain. Black Chelsea boots are the only contrast in this muted palette.
Casual
The Rust Shacket
A rust plaid shacket works as jacket and top layer in light rain. Suede knee-high boots and a cream maxi skirt carry the look when the weather clears.
Cozy
Hoodie Under the Parka
Flatters long-torso frames
A black longline parka over an oversized hoodie and fleece-lined leggings handles everything light rain brings. Tan Chelsea boots and a grey scarf soften the all-black stack.
Formal
Grey Coat Formal Rain
Flatters long-torso frames
A grey longline coat over camel trousers and a black turtleneck holds formal presence through light rain. The black mini shoulder bag keeps what needs carrying close.
Business Casual
Camel Coat Patent Thigh
Flatters long-torso framesFlatters smaller busts
A camel coat over dark jeans and a black crewneck gains editorial edge from patent leather thigh-high boots in light rain. A canvas tote keeps the rest functional.
Chic
Camel Coat Maxi Combat
Flatters tall framesFlatters long-torso frames
A camel coat over a black turtleneck and cream maxi skirt cuts a strong silhouette in light rain. Black combat boots under the skirt are the editorial surprise that makes it.
Other Months in Paris
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear in Paris in december?+
Dress in your warmest wool coat, thermal base layers, and a thick scarf to withstand the 39–48°F humid cold while exploring the Christmas markets on the Champs-Élysées. Waterproof outer layers are highly recommended as December is the rainiest month with 11 days of precipitation. A pair of warm gloves is essential for long periods spent outdoors admiring the holiday displays near the Place de la Concorde.
Is december a good time to visit Paris?+
December is a magical time to visit despite the 39–48°F weather, thanks to the festive lights, holiday markets, and ice rinks. While you should prepare for grey skies and 11 days of rain, the city's indoor attractions like the Opera Garnier and the Louvre are spectacular refuges from the cold. The romantic atmosphere of a Parisian winter is at its peak, making the dampness a minor trade-off for the holiday charm.
What shoes are best for Paris in december?+
Waterproof, insulated leather boots with excellent grip are mandatory for the 39–48°F December weather and the slick cobblestones of Le Marais. Thin-soled shoes or heels should be avoided, as the wet historic pavements and the steep, damp steps of Montmartre can be quite dangerous. Your footwear should be comfortable for long hours of walking and warm enough to protect against the high humidity.
How cold does it get in Paris in december?+
December is one of the coldest months, with average lows of 39°F and highs of 48°F, though the humidity makes it feel closer to freezing. It is also the rainiest month with 11 days of precipitation, often resulting in cold, damp days spent under grey skies. Wind chill along the Seine quays and across open squares can further reduce the apparent temperature, requiring wind-blocking layers.
What should I pack for Paris in december?+
Pack a heavy wool coat, thermal base layers, a warm hat, gloves, and a scarf for the 39–48°F December climate. Include a high-quality umbrella for the 11 days of rain and waterproof leather boots for the wet cobblestones of the Latin Quarter. A mid-weight sweater that layers easily will help you stay warm while exploring the Jardin des Tuileries or enjoying a long lunch in a cozy bistro.
Packing tools
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