France weather in December
Planning a getaway to France this December and curious about the weather you should prepare for? Discover all the vital details you need on this page, solving your puzzle:
What is the weather like in France in December?
France has a wide variety of climate types. During December, you can expect temperatures that range from very cold to moderate and precipitation levels ranging from moderate to heavy. December falls during the winter season.
The average highest temperatures fluctuate between very cold in Aussois at -4°C to moderate in Bonifacio at 15°C. Nighttime temperatures generally drop to 11°C in Bonifacio and -12°C in Aussois.
In December, precipitation varies across different areas. From moderate rainfall in Istres with an average of 53 mm to heavy rainfall in Morez with 186 mm. Based on climate data from the last 30 years, Paris receives the most rainfall during this month of the year. Most areas see fewer sunny days, with a projection of about 58 hours of sunshine in Paris. This reduced sunlight makes it ideal for those who prefer dimmer, overcast conditions over bright sunny days.
For a closer look at December's conditions in France, see the map below. For a more detailed look at France's yearly weather, check out our France climate page.
Where to go in France in December
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Popular destinations in France
What is the weather like in December for the 5 most popular destinations in France?
Average weather in Paris
In December Paris generally has low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 9°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around 3°C and moderate monthly rainfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.
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Average weather in Cannes
In December Cannes generally has moderate temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 13°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around 8°C and moderate monthly rainfall. So on average the conditions are unpleasant that month.
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Average weather in Nice
In December Nice generally has moderate temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 13°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around 6°C and moderate monthly rainfall. So on average the conditions are unpleasant that month.
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Average weather in Lyon
In December Lyon generally has low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 8°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around 2°C and moderate monthly rainfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.
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Average weather in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
In December Chamonix-Mont-Blanc generally has very low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around -2°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around -11°C and heavy monthly snowfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.
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Is your destination not in the list? Have a look at other destinations in France.
Is December the best time to visit France?
In our opinion, December may not be the ideal time to visit France due to the typically poor weather in Paris.
Generally speaking, the best visiting conditions can be found in May, June, July, August and September offering mostly perfect weather in Paris. On the other hand, the weather in January, February and December tend to be poor.
Interested in more climate information?
We have much more information about the climate in France.
Interested in the weather conditions in a specific month? Select the month below.
Weather and climate has detailed information for every country in the world. Are you going to France? Get detailed historical weather averages for many cities in France.
Not sure yet where to go? We now have a tool which recommends destinations that suit your ideal climate conditions. Find out where to go with our weather planner.