Lille in December

Outside the best window (May–Jun, Sep–Oct). Across France: Christmas markets in Strasbourg and Colmar (book hotels months ahead); ski season opens mid-month.

December is rated mixed. These months rate higher:

• MayGreatInside Lille's best window: May–Jun, Sep–Oct.
• JuneGreatInside Lille's best window: May–Jun, Sep–Oct.
• SeptemberGreatInside Lille's best window: May–Jun, Sep–Oct.
• OctoberGreatInside Lille's best window: May–Jun, Sep–Oct.

• LilleHighs around 7 °C (45 °F), lows around 2.3 °C (36 °F), rain on about 12 daysHighs around 45 °F (7 °C), lows around 36 °F (2.3 °C), rain on about 12 days
• Paris and the north, France · 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.Grey, damp winters; late spring and September are the sweet spot. Paris heatwaves hit 95–104 °F (35–40 °C) in July–August and most flats and small hotels lack air conditioning.

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 · France

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

Crowds · France overall

Medium

Prices · France overall

Medium

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

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

• A warm coat, hat and gloves for mornings and evenings
• A rain jacket or umbrella and shoes that dry fast
• Layers: a fleece or light jacket

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