The debate over which city is colder in winter, London or Paris, has been around for centuries. The English and the French have argued back and forth about who has the colder weather. Many people have their own opinions on the matter, but there is no clear answer.
One thing is for sure, both cities have a cold winter climate. London and Paris both have average winter temperatures that are below freezing. In addition, both cities experience a lot of snow during the winter months.
On average London is colder than Paris, but Paris can experience colder temperatures because of its northerly location. In general, the average high temperatures in London are about 2 degrees Celsius lower than in Paris. However, the low temperatures in London are about 4 degrees Celsius higher on average. This means that in the winter, London is colder overall, but Paris can get much colder temperatures.
Comparing average temperatures
When comparing the average winter temperatures in London and Paris, London is colder. However, Paris can experience colder temperatures because of its northerly location. In general, the average high temperature in January in London is about 44 degrees Fahrenheit, while the average high temperature in Paris is about 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The average low temperature in London is about 34 degrees Fahrenheit, while the average low temperature in Paris is about 36 degrees Fahrenheit.
Is there more snow in London or Paris?
In the Northern Hemisphere, there are two popular tourist destinations for people who love winter sports: London and Paris. Both cities have a lot to offer, but which one has more snow? Surprisingly, Paris has more snow on average than London does. In fact, Paris usually sees around 40 snowy days per year, while London only averages about 25 days of snowfall each year. This may be because London is located further south than Paris.
Are there more daylight hours in London or Paris in the Winter?
Paris gets more hours of daylight
If we look at the shortest day of the year last year – 21st December 2022 – then Paris had 8 hours 14 minutes and 49 seconds of daylight between sunrise and sunset, whereas London only had 7 hours and 49 minutes and 42 seconds!!
How to prepare for a cold winter in London or Paris.
Get your winter coat ready, because it’s cold in London and Paris.
Buy some winter clothes
Make sure you have a warm place to sleep
Get a winter hat and gloves
Stock up on food and drink
What to do in London in the Winter
There are many things to do in London in the winter. One popular activity is to go ice skating on the frozen Serpentine Lake in Hyde Park. Another option is to visit one of the city’s many Christmas markets. At the markets, you can buy traditional Christmas items like ornaments, decorations, and gifts. You can also enjoy festive food and drinks like mulled wine and gingerbread.
And most of the usual places will be available to visit.
What to do in Paris in the Winter
Paris is a beautiful city with a lot to offer tourists, no matter what time of year it is. However, some activities are only available during certain times of year. Here are five things you can do in Paris in the winter:
1. Visit the Christmas markets. There are several markets throughout the city, all of which have unique decorations and souvenirs.
2. See the holiday lights. Paris is lit up with beautiful displays during the holiday season.
3. Go ice skating. The city has plenty of parks and gardens where you can skate during the winter months.
4. Take a stroll through the beautiful Jardin du Luxembourg Gardens.
5. Visit the Eiffel Tower at night. This is only possible during the festive season, but it is a popular activity for tourists and locals alike.
And don’t forget the venues which are open all year round.
Conclusion
When considering average temperatures, London is colder than Paris. However, Paris can experience colder temperatures because of its northerly location and its exposure to cold air masses from the Eurasian continent. In the winter, the difference between the average temperature in London and Paris can be as much as 10 degrees Celsius. But this difference is not always consistent, and there have been winters when Paris has been colder than London.
But in any case there is plenty to do in each city!
Hello Julia,
Very interesting. Never been to places in their winters. My Mom is in London, and she told me about winters in London in the past, and I am sure she will again this coming winter season. If I get to choose, I’ll visit both, but London first.
While I’ve never been out of my country, is 10 degrees difference a lot? I like that you listed what we can possibly do in both cities’ winters and how to prepare for it.
A little snow and I am still happy because I have never experienced it yet. What more if I can skate over a frozen lake?
Hi Lemuel,
I lived in London for 5 years and I did experience more snow there than anywhere I have lived except in Yorkshire.
They had been the hottest summers as well until recently.
All the best,
Julia