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Weather Comparison

Paris vs Lyon

Side-by-side weather comparison for December

Paris: 7°CLyon: 7°C391 km apart

December Weather: Paris vs Lyon

MetricParisLyonBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer7°C (45°F)7°C (45°F)Tie
Average LowHigher is milder2°C (36°F)1°C (34°F)Paris
Rain DaysFewer is drier12 days12 daysTie
PrecipitationLess is drier68 mm72 mmParis
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier4h/day5h/dayLyon
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer11Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better20 km/h16 km/hLyon

Which City is Better in December?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Lyon edges ahead as the better destination in December. Lyon offers 5 hours of daily sunshine with only 12 rain days, while Paris sees 4 sunshine hours and 12 rain days.

Paris is on the cooler side at 7°C, requiring warmer clothing. Lyon is cooler at 7°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in December. Lyon receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in December

Paris reaches an average high of 7°C (45°F) and drops to 2°C (36°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 5°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Lyon averages 7°C (45°F) for the high and 1°C (34°F) for the low, with a daily range of 6°C. The two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in December.

Rainfall Comparison in December

Paris receives approximately 68 mm of rainfall across 12 rain days during December. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Lyon sees 72 mm over 12 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Paris vs Lyon

Packing for Paris in December

Highs of 7°C, lows of 2°C, 12 rain days

  • heavy winter coat
  • thermal base layers
  • warm gloves and hat
  • insulated boots
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • a warm scarf

Packing for Lyon in December

Highs of 7°C, lows of 1°C, 12 rain days

  • heavy winter coat
  • thermal base layers
  • warm gloves and hat
  • insulated boots
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • a warm scarf

Pack for both: heavy winter coat, thermal base layers, warm gloves and hat, insulated boots, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, a warm scarf. These items are useful in either destination during December.

Year-Round Comparison: Paris vs Lyon

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.December is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthParisLyon
HighRainHighRain
Jan7°C12d7°C13d
Feb8°C10d9°C10d
Mar12°C11d13°C11d
Apr15°C11d16°C12d
May19°C11d20°C13d
Jun22°C10d24°C12d
Jul24°C10d27°C10d
Aug24°C9d27°C9d
Sep21°C8d22°C9d
Oct16°C11d17°C11d
Nov11°C11d11°C12d
Dec7°C12d7°C12d
7°

Paris Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

7°

Lyon Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Paris warmer than Lyon in December?
Paris and Lyon have the same average high temperature of 7°C (45°F) in December. The average lows are 2°C and 1°C respectively.
Which city gets more rain in December, Paris or Lyon?
Both cities average 12 rain days in December with similar precipitation levels.
Is it better to visit Paris or Lyon in December?
It depends on your preferences. Paris averages 7°C and 4 hours of daily sunshine with 12 rain days. Lyon averages 7°C with 5 sunshine hours and 12 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Lyon. For fewer rain days, both are equal.
How far apart are Paris and Lyon?
Paris and Lyon are approximately 391 km (243 miles) apart. Paris is located in France (Europe) while Lyon is in France (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Paris and Lyon?
For Paris, August tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 24°C. For Lyon, July is typically ideal with 13 sunshine hours and 27°C highs.

Compare Paris and Lyon in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Paris coordinates: 48.86°N, 2.35°E | Lyon coordinates: 45.76°N, 4.84°E