Skip to content
Voykit

When to go · France

France in December

Mixed month. Christmas markets in Strasbourg and Colmar (book hotels months ahead); ski season opens mid-month.

Key facts

Verdict
Mixed
Crowds
Medium
France
Prices
Medium
France

Verdict

MixedVoykit month rating for France

Christmas markets in Strasbourg and Colmar (book hotels months ahead); ski season opens mid-month.

Is another month better than December?

December is rated mixed. These months rate higher:

Weather in December

  • Paris and the north · Paris, Lille, Champagne, Normandy inlandcool

    Grey, damp winters; late spring and September are the sweet spot. Paris heatwaves hit 35–40 °C (95–104 °F) in July–August and most flats and small hotels lack air conditioning.

  • Atlantic west · Brittany, Normandy coast, Bordeaux, Biarritzrainy

    Rain in any month; mild summers without much heat. The Basque coast is greener and wetter than people expect.

  • Centre and east · Loire, Burgundy, Alsace, Lyon, Dordognecool

    Cold foggy winters and hot summers; Alsace Christmas markets make December busy despite the cold.

  • Mediterranean south · Provence, Riviera, Languedoc, Corsicafine

    Dry and sunny; lavender blooms late June to mid-July. Mistral wind in the Rhône valley; autumn flash floods.

  • Mountains · Chamonix, Annecy, Pyreneescool

    Skiing mid-December to April; hiking and lifts late June to early September. Many resorts close in May and November.

  • Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes: Rhône Valley / Lyon · Lyon, Vienne, Valencecool

    Continental blend; hot summers, cold winters, rain spread through the year.

  • Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes: Alps · Annecy, Chamonix, Grenoblecold

    Mountain weather; snow Dec–Mar at altitude, cool nights even in summer. Conditions change fast — check the forecast before hiking.

  • Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes: Auvergne · Clermont-Ferrand, Massif Centralcold

    Higher and wetter than the valley; volcanoes can be in cloud any month.

  • Continental: warm, dry summers and cold winters. Vineyard work peaks in September harvest.

  • Higher and wetter; snow on the ridges roughly December to March, ski season at Les Rousses.

  • Brittany: Coastal Brittany · Saint-Malo, Roscoff, Quimper, Lorientcool

    Mild and wet year-round; sea breezes keep summer cooler than inland. Rain can arrive any month — pack a shell.

  • Brittany: Inland Brittany · Rennes, Monts d'Arrée, Nantes-Brest Canalcool

    Warmer than the coast in summer, colder in winter; the Monts d'Arrée catch cloud and wind.

  • Centre-Val de Loire: Loire Valley (Tours, Blois, Orléans) · river plain and château clustercool

    Mild and wet year-round; July and August can pass 30 °C (86 °F), spring and early autumn are the best balance of weather and crowds.

  • Corsica: Coastal Corsica · Ajaccio, Calvi, Bastia, Bonifaciocool

    Warm and sunny May–October; July–August is peak and booking is essential.

  • Corsica: Interior mountains · Corte, GR 20, Bavellacold

    Cooler and wetter than the coast; snow and closed passes in winter, storms in summer.

  • Grand Est: Alsace and Lorraine · Rhine valley and Vosgescold

    Continental: cold winters, warm summers. Vosges peaks hold snow Dec–Mar; Route des Crêtes partly closed then.

  • Grand Est: Champagne · Reims, Troyes, Marne valleycold

    Flat and open; vineyards are bare Nov–Mar. Cellar tours run year-round.

  • Hauts-de-France: Lille / inland · Flanders plain and Picardycold

    Oceanic climate; rain any month, grey winters, mild summers. July and August are the warmest and busiest.

  • Windy year-round; sea breezes keep it cooler than inland in summer. Beach weather is June to early September.

  • Snow-sure from December to May; summer lifts run for hiking from late June to early September.

  • Ski season typically December to April; lower slopes may be thin in early December and late April.

  • Normandy: Coastal Normandy · Rouen, Caen, Bayeux, Cotentincool

    Mild, changeable and rainier than most of France; sea breezes keep the coast cooler than inland in summer.

  • Mild and ocean-tempered; summer can still hit 35 °C (95 °F)+ inland, and the coast is busy in July–August.

  • Warmer summers, colder winters; spring and autumn are the quiet, good-value months.

  • Occitanie: Mediterranean coast · Montpellier, Nîmes, Narbonne, Perpignancool

    Dry, warm summers; brief winters with cold winds and rain. Forest fires are a growing summer risk.

  • Occitanie: Atlantic-influenced west · Toulouse, Gers, Tarncool

    Cooler and wetter than the coast.

  • Occitanie: Pyrenees · Hautes-Pyrénées, Ariège, Pyrénées-Orientalescold

    Mountain climate; snow in winter, much more rain than the plains.

  • Pays de la Loire: Nantes and the coast · Atlantic seaboard and estuarycool

    Mild and wet year-round; sea breezes keep summer cooler than inland. Rain arrives in any month.

  • Pays de la Loire: Angers and inland Anjou · Loire valley and vineyardscool

    Warmer and drier than the coast in summer; vine rows turn in late September.

  • Mild winters, hot dry summers; sea warm enough to swim roughly June to October. Rain falls mostly in short autumn bursts.

  • Hotter and colder than the coast; mistral wind in winter and spring. Lavender peaks late June to mid-July.

  • Mountain climate; ski season roughly December to March, hiking June to September.

  • Paris7 °C (45 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 11 rain days
  • Abbeville7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 13 rain days
  • Aigues-Mortes13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 5 rain days
  • Aire-sur-l'Adour12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Aiserey6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 11 rain days
  • Aix-en-Provence12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Aix-les-Bains7 °C (45 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 10 rain days
  • Ajaccio14 °C (57 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 10 rain days
  • Alaigne13 °C (55 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 8 rain days
  • Albert7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 5 rain days
  • Albi11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 10 rain days
  • Alençon8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Aléria13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 7 rain days
  • Alès13 °C (55 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 7 rain days
  • Alpe d'Huez3 °C (37 °F) / -5 °C (23 °F), 11 rain days
  • Amboise7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Amiens7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Angers9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Angoulême9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Annecy6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 10 rain days
  • Annemasse4 °C (39 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 13 rain days
  • Annot10 °C (50 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 6 rain days
  • Antibes14 °C (57 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 6 rain days
  • Apt13 °C (55 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 8 rain days
  • Arcachon10 °C (50 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 9 rain days
  • Arette9 °C (48 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 12 rain days
  • Argentan8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Arles-sur-Tech13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 7 rain days
  • Arles12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Arras7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 13 rain days
  • Arromanches-les-Bains8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Auch11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 10 rain days
  • Auray10 °C (50 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 13 rain days
  • Aurillac8 °C (46 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 10 rain days
  • Autun6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 13 rain days
  • Auxerre7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Avallon7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 12 rain days
  • Avignon11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Avranches9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Azay-le-Rideau9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Bagnères-de-Bigorre9 °C (48 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 14 rain days
  • Bandol14 °C (57 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 6 rain days
  • Bastia14 °C (57 °F) / 7 °C (45 °F), 8 rain days
  • Bavay7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Bayeux9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 13 rain days
  • Bayonne13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 13 rain days
  • Beaune7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 12 rain days
  • Beauvais6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 9 rain days
  • Bédée9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 13 rain days
  • Belle-Église7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Bergerac10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 6 rain days
  • Besançon6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 12 rain days
  • Beynac-et-Cazenac10 °C (50 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Béziers12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Biarritz13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 13 rain days
  • Bidarray9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 9 rain days
  • Bidart12 °C (54 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 13 rain days
  • Biscarrosse12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 8 rain days
  • Bize Minervois12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 7 rain days
  • Blois8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Bobigny7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Bonifacio14 °C (57 °F) / 8 °C (46 °F), 10 rain days
  • Bordeaux11 °C (52 °F) / 4.4 °C (40 °F), 13 rain days
  • Bormes-les-Mimosas13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 6 rain days
  • Boulogne-Billancourt8 °C (46 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 11 rain days
  • Boulogne-sur-Mer8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Bourg-Saint-Maurice4 °C (39 °F) / -2 °C (28 °F), 8 rain days
  • Bourges8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 13 rain days
  • Boutx9 °C (48 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 9 rain days
  • Bouzigues12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 7 rain days
  • Bozel4 °C (39 °F) / -3 °C (27 °F), 9 rain days
  • Brantôme10 °C (50 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Bréhat9 °C (48 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 13 rain days
  • Brens10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Brest9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 13 rain days
  • Breteil9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Briançon5 °C (41 °F) / -3 °C (27 °F), 9 rain days
  • Briatexte11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 10 rain days
  • Brides les Bains4 °C (39 °F) / -4 °C (25 °F), 11 rain days
  • Brive-la-Gaillarde10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Buis-les-Baronnies10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 6 rain days
  • Cadalen11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 9 rain days
  • Caen9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 13 rain days
  • Cagnes-sur-Mer14 °C (57 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 6 rain days
  • Cahors9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 8 rain days
  • Calais7 °C (45 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Calvi14 °C (57 °F) / 7 °C (45 °F), 9 rain days
  • Cannes14 °C (57 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 6 rain days
  • Carcassonne13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 7 rain days
  • Cargèse13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 8 rain days
  • Carmaux11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 10 rain days
  • Carnac9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 13 rain days
  • Carpentras11 °C (52 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 6 rain days
  • Cassis14 °C (57 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 7 rain days
  • Castelnau-de-Montmiral10 °C (50 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 8 rain days
  • Castillon12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 6 rain days
  • Causses-et-Veyran11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Cavaillon13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 8 rain days
  • Cavalaire-sur-Mer13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 8 rain days
  • Cerbère13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 9 rain days
  • Céret12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 8 rain days
  • Chablis6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 13 rain days
  • Chalon-sur-Saône8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Chambéry7 °C (45 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 10 rain days
  • Chambord7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 9 rain days
  • Chamonix3 °C (37 °F) / -6 °C (21 °F), 11 rain days
  • Chantilly7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Charleville-Mézières6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 12 rain days
  • Chartres8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Château-du-Loir9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Chatel3 °C (37 °F) / -5 °C (23 °F), 11 rain days
  • Châtillon-sur-Seine7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 12 rain days
  • Chenonceaux8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Cherbourg-en-Cotentin9 °C (48 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 14 rain days
  • Chinon8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 9 rain days
  • Clermont-Ferrand8 °C (46 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 10 rain days
  • Clisson8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 13 rain days
  • Cluny6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 12 rain days
  • Collioure14 °C (57 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 8 rain days
  • Colmar5 °C (41 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 10 rain days
  • Conques7 °C (45 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 9 rain days
  • Cordes-sur-Ciel11 °C (52 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 6 rain days
  • Corte13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 12 rain days
  • Cotignac13 °C (55 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Couffouleux10 °C (50 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 10 rain days
  • Courchevel3 °C (37 °F) / -4 °C (25 °F), 10 rain days
  • Coutances9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 13 rain days
  • Deauville8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 13 rain days
  • Die10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 8 rain days
  • Dieppe8 °C (46 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 12 rain days
  • Dijon6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 11 rain days
  • Dinan9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Dinard9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 13 rain days
  • Disneyland Paris8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Divonne-les-Bains6 °C (43 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 12 rain days
  • Dole6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 12 rain days
  • Douai6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 11 rain days
  • Douarnenez9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 13 rain days
  • Dunkirk7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 15 rain days
  • Durfort11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 10 rain days
  • Durtal9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Eguisheim6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 12 rain days
  • Elne14 °C (57 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 5 rain days
  • Épernay8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Épinal6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 12 rain days
  • Époisses7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 12 rain days
  • Étretat8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 13 rain days
  • Euronat12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 9 rain days
  • Evian6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 10 rain days
  • Évreux7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Eygurande-et-Gardedeuil10 °C (50 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Eymet9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 9 rain days
  • Èze14 °C (57 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 5 rain days
  • Falaise8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Fayence13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Figari13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 8 rain days
  • Flaine3 °C (37 °F) / -5 °C (23 °F), 12 rain days
  • Foix9 °C (48 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 8 rain days
  • Fontainebleau8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Fontevrault9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Forbach5 °C (41 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 11 rain days
  • Fraisse-sur-Agout9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Fréjus14 °C (57 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 7 rain days
  • Gaillac11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 10 rain days
  • Gavarnie6 °C (43 °F) / -2 °C (28 °F), 9 rain days
  • Germigny-des-Prés8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Gimel-les-Cascades9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Giroussens11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 10 rain days
  • Giverny8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Gordes11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Granville9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 12 rain days
  • Grasse13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 8 rain days
  • Graulhet10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 9 rain days
  • Grenoble7 °C (45 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 9 rain days
  • Guérande9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 13 rain days
  • Gulf of Porto14 °C (57 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 9 rain days
  • Hendaye14 °C (57 °F) / 7 °C (45 °F), 13 rain days
  • Honfleur8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Husseren-les-Châteaux6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 8 rain days
  • Hyères14 °C (57 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 6 rain days
  • Iffendic9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 15 rain days
  • Issoudun7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 8 rain days
  • Kaysersberg6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 10 rain days
  • La Bastide-Clairence9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 13 rain days
  • La Baule10 °C (50 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 76 rain days
  • La Charité-sur-Loire7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 13 rain days
  • La Chartre sur le Loir8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • La Ciotat13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 8 rain days
  • La Clusaz3 °C (37 °F) / -5 °C (23 °F), 13 rain days
  • La Nouaye9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • La Plagne3 °C (37 °F) / -7 °C (19 °F), 11 rain days
  • La Rochelle10 °C (50 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 12 rain days
  • La Toussuire2.8 °C (37 °F) / -10.9 °C (12 °F), 11 rain days
  • La Tremblade10 °C (50 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 12 rain days
  • La Trinité13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 6 rain days
  • La Turbie13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 6 rain days
  • Lagorce9 °C (48 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 8 rain days
  • Lagrave7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 8 rain days
  • Lancieux10 °C (50 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 13 rain days
  • Langeais8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Lannion9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 15 rain days
  • Laon6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 9 rain days
  • Larrau9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Lautrec10 °C (50 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 10 rain days
  • Le Bourget7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 8 rain days
  • Le Havre8 °C (46 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 13 rain days
  • Le Lavandou13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 6 rain days
  • Le Mans9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Le Puy-en-Velay8 °C (46 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 13 rain days
  • Le Touquet3.1 °C (38 °F) / 8.2 °C (47 °F), 107 rain days
  • Lens6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 15 rain days
  • Léon12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 12 rain days
  • Les Andelys8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Les Arcs3 °C (37 °F) / -5 °C (23 °F), 12 rain days
  • Les Baux-de-Provence13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 9 rain days
  • Les Deux Alpes6 °C (43 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 7 rain days
  • Les Gets-1 °C (30 °F) / -6 °C (21 °F), 8 rain days
  • Les Sables-d'Olonne10 °C (50 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 8 rain days
  • Lescun9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 9 rain days
  • Leucate13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 6 rain days
  • Levallois-Perret8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Lhomme9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 9 rain days
  • L'Île‑Rousse13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 9 rain days
  • Lille7 °C (45 °F) / 2.3 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Limoges7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 10 rain days
  • Limoux11 °C (52 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 9 rain days
  • Lisieux9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 14 rain days
  • L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 7 rain days
  • Lisle-sur-Tarn11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 10 rain days
  • Liverdun6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 11 rain days
  • Loches9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Lorient8 °C (46 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 13 rain days
  • Lourdes10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Lourmarin12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 7 rain days
  • Lyon8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 9 rain days
  • Mâcon7 °C (45 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 11 rain days
  • Maintenon7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Maisons-Alfort8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Maisons-Laffitte8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Manosque11 °C (52 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 6 rain days
  • Marciac10 °C (50 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Marne-la-Vallée7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Marseille12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Meaux7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 9 rain days
  • Megève3 °C (37 °F) / -4 °C (25 °F), 8 rain days
  • Melles7 °C (45 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 12 rain days
  • Menthon St. Bernard6 °C (43 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 11 rain days
  • Menton14 °C (57 °F) / 7 °C (45 °F), 6 rain days
  • Mérens-les-Vals7 °C (45 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 10 rain days
  • Meribel5 °C (41 °F) / -4 °C (25 °F), 13 rain days
  • Mers-les-Bains8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 13 rain days
  • Metz6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 11 rain days
  • Migennes6 °C (43 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 9 rain days
  • Millau7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 12 rain days
  • Mimizan12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 9 rain days
  • Minerve11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Mirande11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 10 rain days
  • Mirepoix/Tarn11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 10 rain days
  • Modane6 °C (43 °F) / -2 °C (28 °F), 9 rain days
  • Moissac11 °C (52 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 9 rain days
  • Molène11 °C (52 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 16 rain days
  • Monpazier10 °C (50 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Mont-de-Marsan12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Mont Dore7 °C (45 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 11 rain days
  • Mont Saint-Michel9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 13 rain days
  • Montfort-sur-Meu9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 13 rain days
  • Montgaillard11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 9 rain days
  • Montignac10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Montolieu12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Montpellier13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Montreuil-sur-Mer8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Montsoreau9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Morillon3 °C (37 °F) / -4 °C (25 °F), 10 rain days
  • Mougins13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 6 rain days
  • Moustiers Sainte Marie11 °C (52 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 6 rain days
  • Mulhouse6 °C (43 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 13 rain days
  • Nancy6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 12 rain days
  • Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 13 rain days
  • Nantes9.8 °C (50 °F) / 3.7 °C (39 °F), 13 rain days
  • Narbonne13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 6 rain days
  • Néoules12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Neuf-Brisach6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 10 rain days
  • Neufchâtel-Hardelot7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Nevers9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Nice14 °C (57 °F) / 7 °C (45 °F), 6 rain days
  • Nîmes13 °C (55 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Niort10 °C (50 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Nogent-le-Rotrou7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Nogent-sur-Marne8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Nonza15 °C (59 °F) / 7 °C (45 °F), 8 rain days
  • Olargues11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 8 rain days
  • Oradour-sur-Glane9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Orange11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Orgnac l'Aven10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 7 rain days
  • Orléans8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Ostabat-Asme10 °C (50 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 13 rain days
  • Ouistreham8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Paimpol10 °C (50 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 14 rain days
  • Paray-le-Monial7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 11 rain days
  • Pau11 °C (52 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 11 rain days
  • Pechbonnieu10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 9 rain days
  • Peillon13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 7 rain days
  • Périgueux10 °C (50 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Pérouges7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 9 rain days
  • Perpignan13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 5 rain days
  • Pézenas13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 8 rain days
  • Pleumeleuc9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 13 rain days
  • Pleumeur-Bodou9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 13 rain days
  • Poitiers8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Pomerols13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 6 rain days
  • Pontivy9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 12 rain days
  • Pornic10 °C (50 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 14 rain days
  • Porquerolles14 °C (57 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 7 rain days
  • Porto-Vecchio14 °C (57 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 9 rain days
  • Praz de Lys-Sommand3 °C (37 °F) / -5 °C (23 °F), 13 rain days
  • Propriano14 °C (57 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 9 rain days
  • Provins7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 9 rain days
  • Puy-l'Évêque10 °C (50 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Puycelsi9 °C (48 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 8 rain days
  • Puyloubier12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Quiberon9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 13 rain days
  • Quimper10 °C (50 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 12 rain days
  • Rambouillet8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Reims7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Remoulins13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 7 rain days
  • Rennes-le-Château13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 8 rain days
  • Rennes9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 13 rain days
  • Rians12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Ribeauvillé6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 9 rain days
  • Ribérac10 °C (50 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Riquewihr6 °C (43 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 12 rain days
  • Risoul4 °C (39 °F) / -3 °C (27 °F), 9 rain days
  • Roanne6 °C (43 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 12 rain days
  • Rocamadour10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Rodez7 °C (45 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 9 rain days
  • Roissy-en-France7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 13 rain days
  • Roquebrune-sur-Argens14 °C (57 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 6 rain days
  • Roquesérière11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 9 rain days
  • Roscoff10 °C (50 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 16 rain days
  • Rouen8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Royan9.2 °C (49 °F) / 3.9 °C (39 °F), 12 rain days
  • Rueil-Malmaison8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 7 rain days
  • Saint-Benoît-du-Sault8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Saint-Brieuc10 °C (50 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 15 rain days
  • Saint-Claude6 °C (43 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saint-Cloud8 °C (46 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 11 rain days
  • Saint-Denis, Île-de-France8 °C (46 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 5 rain days
  • Saint-Dié-des-Vosges6 °C (43 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saint-Émilion11 °C (52 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorry9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 14 rain days
  • Saint-Étienne7 °C (45 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 9 rain days
  • Saint-Florent13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 9 rain days
  • Saint-Germain-en-Laye7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 9 rain days
  • Saint-Gervais-les-Bains4 °C (39 °F) / -3 °C (27 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saint-Gonlay10 °C (50 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 6 rain days
  • Saint-Jean-de-Côle10 °C (50 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saint-Jean-de-Luz13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 9 rain days
  • Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port10 °C (50 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 15 rain days
  • Saint-Lary-Soulan7 °C (45 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 9 rain days
  • Saint-Lô8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saint-Louis6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saint-Malo10 °C (50 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 13 rain days
  • Saint Martin de Belleville3 °C (37 °F) / -6 °C (21 °F), 11 rain days
  • Saint-Martin-de-Crau13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 7 rain days
  • Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Saint-Mont11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 10 rain days
  • Saint-Nazaire10 °C (50 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 14 rain days
  • Saint-Paul de Vence14 °C (57 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 6 rain days
  • Saint-Paul-lès-Dax13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saint-Pons-de-Thomières10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 9 rain days
  • Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Saint-Raphaël13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 7 rain days
  • Saint-Rémy-de-Provence13 °C (55 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 8 rain days
  • Saint-Sever12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saint‑Sulpice10 °C (50 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Saint-Tropez14 °C (57 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 7 rain days
  • Sainte-Engrâce9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise3 °C (37 °F) / -6 °C (21 °F), 11 rain days
  • Sainte-Marie-aux-Mines5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 11 rain days
  • Saintes Maries de la Mer12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 5 rain days
  • Saintes10 °C (50 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 11 rain days
  • Sallenelles9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 13 rain days
  • Salon-de-Provence13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Salvagnac13 °C (55 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 8 rain days
  • Samoëns5 °C (41 °F) / -2 °C (28 °F), 11 rain days
  • Sanary-sur-Mer13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 7 rain days
  • Sant'Antonino14 °C (57 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 8 rain days
  • Sare11 °C (52 °F) / 7 °C (45 °F), 12 rain days
  • Sarlat-la-Canéda8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Sartène13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 8 rain days
  • Saulieu7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saumur6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 8 rain days
  • Sceaux8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Sedan5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 12 rain days
  • Seillans13 °C (55 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Sélestat7 °C (45 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 9 rain days
  • Semur-en-Auxois6 °C (43 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 9 rain days
  • Sens8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Serre-Chevalier5 °C (41 °F) / -2 °C (28 °F), 9 rain days
  • Sète13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 8 rain days
  • Sisteron10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 6 rain days
  • Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval3 °C (37 °F) / -5 °C (23 °F), 10 rain days
  • Sospel13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 7 rain days
  • Soulac-sur-Mer12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 9 rain days
  • Strasbourg5 °C (41 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 10 rain days
  • Talairan13 °C (55 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 8 rain days
  • Talensac9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 12 rain days
  • Tarascon13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 7 rain days
  • Tarbes10 °C (50 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 10 rain days
  • Thouars9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Thuir13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 5 rain days
  • Tignes4 °C (39 °F) / -2 °C (28 °F), 6 rain days
  • Toulon13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 6 rain days
  • Toulouse11 °C (52 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 9 rain days
  • Tourrettes-sur-Loup13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 8 rain days
  • Tours8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Trouville-sur-Mer9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 12 rain days
  • Troyes6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 9 rain days
  • Tuchan13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 8 rain days
  • Turckheim6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 9 rain days
  • Vaison-la-Romaine11 °C (52 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 6 rain days
  • Val-d'Isère3 °C (37 °F) / -4 °C (25 °F), 7 rain days
  • Val Thorens3 °C (37 °F) / -7 °C (19 °F), 11 rain days
  • Valbonne and Biot13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 8 rain days
  • Valfréjus3 °C (37 °F) / -5 °C (23 °F), 10 rain days
  • Vallon-Pont-d'Arc10 °C (50 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 8 rain days
  • Vannes10 °C (50 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 13 rain days
  • Vaour9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 8 rain days
  • Vence13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 6 rain days
  • Verdun6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 11 rain days
  • Vernet-les-Bains13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 8 rain days
  • Versailles8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Vesoul6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 13 rain days
  • Veynes5 °C (41 °F) / -2 °C (28 °F), 8 rain days
  • Vézelay7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 11 rain days
  • Vichy9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Vienne8 °C (46 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 9 rain days
  • Villefranche-sur-Mer13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 7 rain days
  • Villefranche-sur-Saône8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Vire8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Vitré9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Vittel7 °C (45 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 9 rain days
  • Voiron5 °C (41 °F) / -2 °C (28 °F), 10 rain days

Festivals and holidays

Dates as our data lists them. Moving holidays (lunar and Islamic calendars, Easter) shift every year: check the date for your year before you build a trip on it.

  • Christmas big impact

    25 Dec

    Most shops and many restaurants close on the 25th; Christmas Eve dinner is the big family meal.

  • Christmas markets and lights check

    Late November to early January · Paris

    Crowded evenings; closures on 25 December and 1 January.

  • Christmas and New Year

    Late Dec–early Jan · Paris

    Lights and markets; closures on 25 December and 1 January.

Crowds and prices

Crowds · France
Medium
Prices · France
Medium

Compare two months

Weather, crowds and prices for any two months in France, side by side.

  • Verdict

    Dec: Mixed

    May: Great (better)

  • Crowds

    Dec: Medium

    May: Medium

  • Prices

    Dec: Medium

    May: Medium

  • Festivals listed

    Dec: 3

    May: 2

December: Christmas markets in Strasbourg and Colmar (book hotels months ahead); ski season opens mid-month.

May: Long weekends (1 May, 8 May, Ascension) fill trains; otherwise mild and green. Cannes festival lifts Riviera prices mid-month.

France: figures are long-term averages from this guide, not a forecast.

What to pack

  • Layers: a fleece or light jacket
  • A rain jacket or umbrella and shoes that dry fast

Build the full packing list for your trip →

Where to go in December

Rated best or good this month

  • Alpe d'Huez

    Best months: Dec–Mar for snow; Jun–Aug for cycling and hiking

  • Arette

    Best months: Dec–Mar for ski, Jun–Sep for hiking

  • Bagnères-de-Bigorre

    Best months: Jun–Sep, Dec–Feb (ski season and warm spa weather)

  • Bourg-Saint-Maurice

    Best months: Dec–Mar (ski), Jun–Sep (hiking)

  • Boutx

    Best months: Dec–Mar for ski, May–Sep for hiking

  • Bozel

    Best months: Jul–Aug for walking and the lake; late Dec–mid Apr for skiing

  • Briançon

    Best months: Dec–Apr for skiing; Jun–Sep for hiking

  • Brides les Bains

    Best months: Dec–Apr (ski season), Jun–Sep (hiking, spa)

  • Chamonix

    Best months: Jun–Sep for hiking and lifts; Dec–Mar for skiing

  • Colmar

    Best months: May–Jun, Sep–Oct; Dec for the Christmas markets

  • Courchevel

    Best months: Dec–Mar (peak ski season)

  • Die

    Best months: May–Sep (warm, festivals), Dec–Mar (ski season – check)