Winter chill returns in much of the country with festive markets and holiday events increasing visitor numbers in some cities. Mountain resorts prepare for the ski season while many lowland areas are quieter and wetter.
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Average temperature across France in December.
Île‑de‑France, Normandy
December sees festive lights returning to Paris and occasional cold snaps across northern France; Normandy can be windy and damp but usually not intensely cold. Coastal storms can make sea air sharp; inland, seasonal markets bring crowds to town squares and château grounds. Bring solid winter outerwear and expect indoor spaces to be warm and bustling with holiday events.
Bretagne, Saint‑Malo, Brest, La Rochelle
December is cool and often grey with brisk winds off the Atlantic; sea spray and surges can make the coastline dramatic and sometimes unsuitable for long beach walks. Holiday markets run in larger towns and the seafood is superb in winter; pack a warm hat, waterproofs and layered clothing for blustery harbour evenings.
Tours, Amboise, Saumur, Angers
December is festive with Christmas markets opening in larger towns and twinkling lights in historic centres; weather is cold and often damp, but this is a charming low‑crowd period. Some château gardens are shut, though interiors and special winter events may be open. Pack warm layers, a waterproof outer layer, and plan for shorter daylight hours.
Bordeaux, Biarritz, Dordogne, Arcachon
December is cool and damp with festive markets in Bordeaux and medieval towns lit for the holidays; offshore storms bring dramatic skies to the Atlantic coast. Ski conditions in the nearby Pyrenees may begin to form at higher elevations, but coastal areas remain mild by French standards. Pack warm clothing and waterproofs, and enjoy hearty regional cuisine indoors.
Chamonix, Grenoble, Annecy, Val d’Isère
December is the start of the ski season with resorts opening progressively; heavy snowfall at altitude brings prime conditions, though lower slopes may be variable early in the month. Christmas markets in Alpine towns are atmospheric and après-ski scenes are lively. Pack insulated clothing, waterproof boots and plan for busy holiday weeks at popular resorts.
Marseille, Avignon, Aix‑en‑Provence, Nice, Cannes
December is mild by northern French standards but can be blustery and cool, with festive markets in Nice and Aix enlivening town centres. Snow is rare on the coast but possible in higher inland hills like the Luberon summits. Pack warm layers, a rainproof jacket and enjoy quieter cultural sightseeing without summer queues.
From late November into December, towns such as Strasbourg and Colmar host traditional Christmas markets attracting visitors regionally.
See how December compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.