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Weather Comparison

Paris vs Amsterdam

Side-by-side weather comparison for December

Paris: 7°CAmsterdam: 6°C430 km apart

December Weather: Paris vs Amsterdam

MetricParisAmsterdamBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer7°C (45°F)6°C (43°F)Paris
Average LowHigher is milder2°C (36°F)3°C (37°F)Amsterdam
Rain DaysFewer is drier12 days13 daysParis
PrecipitationLess is drier68 mm71 mmParis
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier4h/day3h/dayParis
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer11Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better20 km/h24 km/hParis

Which City is Better in December?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Paris edges ahead as the better destination in December. Paris offers 4 hours of daily sunshine with only 12 rain days, while Amsterdam sees 3 sunshine hours and 13 rain days.

Paris is on the cooler side at 7°C, requiring warmer clothing. Amsterdam is cooler at 6°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Paris is the stronger choice in December. Paris 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.

Amsterdam averages 6°C (43°F) for the high and 3°C (37°F) for the low, with a daily range of 3°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.

Amsterdam sees 71 mm over 13 rain days. That makes Paris the drier option by 1 rain day and 3 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Paris vs Amsterdam

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 Amsterdam in December

Highs of 6°C, lows of 3°C, 13 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 Amsterdam

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.

MonthParisAmsterdam
HighRainHighRain
Jan7°C12d6°C13d
Feb8°C10d6°C11d
Mar12°C11d9°C11d
Apr15°C11d13°C11d
May19°C11d16°C11d
Jun22°C10d19°C12d
Jul24°C10d21°C14d
Aug24°C9d21°C13d
Sep21°C8d18°C12d
Oct16°C11d14°C13d
Nov11°C11d10°C13d
Dec7°C12d6°C13d
7°

Paris Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

6°

Amsterdam Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Paris warmer than Amsterdam in December?
Yes. In December, Paris is warmer with an average high of 7°C (45°F) compared to Amsterdam at 6°C (43°F), a difference of 1°C.
Which city gets more rain in December, Paris or Amsterdam?
Amsterdam gets more rain in December with 13 rain days and 71 mm of precipitation. Paris is the drier option with 12 rain days.
Is it better to visit Paris or Amsterdam in December?
It depends on your preferences. Paris averages 7°C and 4 hours of daily sunshine with 12 rain days. Amsterdam averages 6°C with 3 sunshine hours and 13 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Paris. For drier weather, Paris is the better pick.
How far apart are Paris and Amsterdam?
Paris and Amsterdam are approximately 430 km (267 miles) apart. Paris is located in France (Europe) while Amsterdam is in Netherlands (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Paris and Amsterdam?
For Paris, August tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 24°C. For Amsterdam, July is typically ideal with 12 sunshine hours and 21°C highs.

Compare Paris and Amsterdam 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 | Amsterdam coordinates: 52.37°N, 4.90°E