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Weather Comparison

Paris vs Zurich

Side-by-side weather comparison for December

Paris: 7°CZurich: 5°C488 km apart

December Weather: Paris vs Zurich

MetricParisZurichBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer7°C (45°F)5°C (41°F)Paris
Average LowHigher is milder2°C (36°F)0°C (32°F)Paris
Rain DaysFewer is drier12 days14 daysParis
PrecipitationLess is drier68 mm92 mmParis
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier4h/day5h/dayZurich
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer11Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better20 km/h12 km/hZurich

Which City is Better in December?

Paris and Zurich are closely matched in December. Neither city has a clear advantage across all metrics. Your decision should come down to personal preference, cultural interests, and travel logistics rather than weather alone.

Paris is on the cooler side at 7°C, requiring warmer clothing. Zurich is cooler at 5°C.

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

Zurich averages 5°C (41°F) for the high and 0°C (32°F) for the low, with a daily range of 5°C. The 2°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

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.

Zurich sees 92 mm over 14 rain days. That makes Paris the drier option by 2 rain days and 24 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Paris vs Zurich

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 Zurich in December

Highs of 5°C, lows of 0°C, 14 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 Zurich

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.

MonthParisZurich
HighRainHighRain
Jan7°C12d5°C13d
Feb8°C10d6°C11d
Mar12°C11d10°C13d
Apr15°C11d14°C13d
May19°C11d18°C15d
Jun22°C10d22°C16d
Jul24°C10d24°C15d
Aug24°C9d23°C14d
Sep21°C8d19°C12d
Oct16°C11d15°C12d
Nov11°C11d9°C12d
Dec7°C12d5°C14d
7°

Paris Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

5°

Zurich Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Paris warmer than Zurich in December?
Yes. In December, Paris is warmer with an average high of 7°C (45°F) compared to Zurich at 5°C (41°F), a difference of 2°C.
Which city gets more rain in December, Paris or Zurich?
Zurich gets more rain in December with 14 rain days and 92 mm of precipitation. Paris is the drier option with 12 rain days.
Is it better to visit Paris or Zurich in December?
It depends on your preferences. Paris averages 7°C and 4 hours of daily sunshine with 12 rain days. Zurich averages 5°C with 5 sunshine hours and 14 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Paris. For drier weather, Paris is the better pick.
How far apart are Paris and Zurich?
Paris and Zurich are approximately 488 km (303 miles) apart. Paris is located in France (Europe) while Zurich is in Switzerland (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Paris and Zurich?
For Paris, August tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 24°C. For Zurich, July is typically ideal with 12 sunshine hours and 24°C highs.

Compare Paris and Zurich 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 | Zurich coordinates: 47.38°N, 8.54°E