Europe · December
Best time to visit France in December 🇫🇷
December in France is off-season — extreme weather or closures. generally a tough month — extreme heat, monsoon, deep cold or widespread closures. Plan carefully or pick another country.
Last updated June 2026
Is December a good time to visit France? Quick answer
Not ideal — consider another month or country.
| Verdict for December | Off-season — extreme weather or closures |
| Average temperature | 8°C high / 3°C low |
| Rainy days | ~10 days |
| Crowds | med |
| Prices | med |
| Events this month | Strasbourg Christmas markets, Lyon Fête des Lumières 8 Dec |
| Peak months overall | May, June, September, October |
| Insider tip | Many Parisians leave in August — some restaurants close, but the city feels calmer. |
France year at a glance
The absolute peak months for France are May, June, September, October. December isn't one of them — consider shifting your dates or seeing alternatives below.
What France is like in December
Cold and festive — Alsace Christmas markets are world-famous; ski resorts open mid-month. May–Jun & Sep–Oct are ideal. Lavender (Provence) peaks late Jun–mid Jul. French Riviera best Jun & Sep. Alps for skiing Dec–Mar.
Insider tip
Many Parisians leave in August — some restaurants close, but the city feels calmer.
December by region in France
Paris
shoulderBest May–Jun & Sep–Oct.
Provence & Côte d'Azur
off-seasonLavender late Jun–mid Jul; beach Jun–Sep.
French Alps
bestSki Dec–Mar; hike Jun–Sep.
Where to go in December instead
Thailand in December
A tale of two coasts and three seasons.
Philippines in December
7,000 islands, one dry season.
Cambodia in December
Cool & dry for Angkor.
Laos in December
Mekong country, cool dry winters.
UAE in December
Desert winters are magical; summers brutal.
Switzerland in December
Two seasons, both spectacular.
FAQs: France in December
Is December a good time to visit France?
Not really — most travellers should shift dates or pick another country. December in France is off-season — extreme weather or closures. Expect average highs around 8°C and lows near 3°C, with roughly 10 rainy days.
What is the weather like in France in December?
Average daily high around 8°C, low around 3°C, with about 10 rainy days. Cold and festive — Alsace Christmas markets are world-famous; ski resorts open mid-month.
What events or festivals happen in France in December?
Key events in December include Strasbourg Christmas markets, Lyon Fête des Lumières 8 Dec.
Are flights and hotels cheaper in France in December?
Prices in December are typically mid-range, with moderate crowds.
Should I book France in advance for December?
You can usually book closer to your travel dates in December — supply is plenty and prices stay reasonable.