Ever felt lost trying to find things to do in Paris in winter? The cold days and long nights can make the city feel daunting instead of magical. You want the charm, the lights, the coziness—not just another day shivering by the Seine.
I’ve been there, too, wondering how to fill the hours without freezing. But winter in Paris has its secret wonders if you know where to look. This article will show you the winter-only, hidden spots in Paris. It makes the city unforgettable. Ready to see a new side of Paris? Let’s dive in.
Key Takeaways: Paris in Winter Travel Guide
- Fewer Crowds & Lower Costs: Winter in Paris offers discounted prices on hotels and attractions, with fewer tourists and shorter lines at top sites like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre.
- Unique Seasonal Activities: Enjoy ice skating at the Eiffel Tower and Hotel de Ville, explore magical Christmas markets, and attend winter festivals with light displays.
- Ideal Indoor Experiences: Museums like the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and cozy cafés provide perfect escapes from the cold and are less crowded than in peak seasons.
- Essential Packing Tips: Layer up with warm clothes, waterproof boots, a scarf, gloves, and a small umbrella to stay comfortable during chilly, rainy days.
- Advance Booking Is a Must: Buy tickets early for popular attractions (Eiffel Tower, Catacombs, Versailles) to avoid missing out during limited-capacity winter months.
Why Visit Paris in Winter?
Paris in winter offers a unique charm you can’t experience any other time. The city is quieter, with fewer crowds, so you get to savor its beauty without the usual rush.
One of the biggest perks? Lower prices. Hotels, flights, and attractions often offer discounts now. It’s a great time to visit on a budget. Plus, the iconic landmarks are breathtaking, with a dusting of snow or the glow of festive lights.
You’ll also find exclusive, seasonal things to do in Paris in winter. Ice-skating rinks pop up around the city. Cozy cafés serve warm mulled wine. Holiday markets add to the magic.
Winter in Paris isn’t just about staying warm indoors; it’s a chance to see a quieter, more intimate side of the city. Trust me—it’s an experience you don’t want to miss.
Winter Weather in Paris
Winter weather in Paris is a mix of charm and chill. Temperatures usually hover between 37°F (3°C) and 46°F (8°C), so it’s cold but rarely freezing. Snow isn’t common, but when it falls, Paris transforms into a winter wonderland.
Expect gray skies and a fair amount of rain, so pack a warm coat, waterproof boots, and an umbrella. But don’t let that deter you—there are plenty of cozy things to do in Paris in winter to keep you warm and entertained.
For example, you can duck into a heated café for hot chocolate. You can also explore indoor attractions like the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay. Even if the weather outside is chilly, the city’s warmth and charm make winter an ideal time to visit Paris. Just dress warmly, and you’ll be ready to enjoy everything this season has to offer.
What to Pack for Winter in Paris?
Packing for Paris in winter is all about staying warm and dry. The weather can be chilly and damp, so layering is key. Start with a warm, waterproof coat—you’ll need it for all the outdoor things to do in Paris in winter.
Bring sweaters and long-sleeve tops, which you can layer. Comfortable, waterproof boots are a must for those cobblestone streets and rainy days. Don’t forget a scarf, gloves, and a cozy hat; they’ll keep you warm while adding a touch of Parisian style.
Finally, pack an umbrella and a small day bag for easy access to your essentials. With the right wardrobe, you’ll be ready to enjoy winter in Paris comfortably!
Packing for Your Winter Trip to Paris
For winter in Paris, pack a warm jacket and scarf, and don’t forget waterproof shoes. You’ll need them for wet streets, and they’re perfect for staying comfortable on the go.
Rain gear is essential. Rain ponchos aren’t very common or practical in Paris, especially when going in and out of shops and museums. A small umbrella that fits in your bag is much easier to handle.
Here’s a quick list of essentials to keep you cozy and ready for Parisian weather:
- Comfortable shoes or sneakers: Yes, Parisians wear them! Popular choices in 2024 include VEJA and Adidas Classics.
- A scarf: This is a must for staying warm.
- A small travel umbrella: Compact and perfect for your purse.
- A lightweight down jacket: Great for layering on chilly days.
- Warm merino socks: These are a game-changer! They keep your feet warm without overheating and help prevent blisters.
| CHECKLIST for The Spring Paris Trip | |
| 👉Get a Travel Adapter | 👉 Get Travel Insurance 💰 |
| 👉Book Your Flight Ticket ✈️ | 👉 Buy your SIM card in advance 📶 |
| 👉Buy Convenient Luggage 🛍️ | 👉 Purchase Comfortable Shoes 👟 |
| 👉Pack Winter Jacket 🧥 | 👉 Take Documents Wallet 👝 |
| 🏨Hotel Booked | 🎫Buy Tickets for your Attractions |
| 👉 Booking.Com | 👉 Eiffel Tower (Book Now) |
| 👉 Airbnb | 👉 Louvre Museum (Book Now) |
| 👉 Hostel World | 👉 Notre-Dame Cathedral (Book Now) |
Plan for the Top Sights in Paris
Before diving into all the fantastic things to see, buying tickets in advance is almost a must for many places in Paris. I know it can reduce some spontaneity during the holiday. But, booking ahead has big benefits
For popular spots like the Eiffel Tower or the Catacombs, tickets can sell out weeks in advance. If you don’t reserve early, you might end up in long lines or miss out completely. To save time and avoid disappointment, please reserve your tickets before you go.
Here are the top sights where advance tickets are essential. For your convenience, I’ve included links to my favorite ticket provider. It has a 24-hour cancellation and refund policy.
- Louvre: Skip the ticket lines, especially in December – Tours Travel Finder | GetYourGuide
- Eiffel Tower: Secure a trip to the summit – GetYourGuide | Travel Finder
- Catacombs: Popular historical site, sells out fast – GetYourGuide | Travel Finder
- Château de Versailles: Avoid year-round long lines – GetYourGuide | Travel Finder
Pro Tips: You can also buy tickets on each site’s official page, but be aware they often don’t offer refunds. Booking through Tours Travel Finder offers a last-minute solution. It has a flexible, hassle-free cancellation policy.
Must Things to do in Paris in Winter
If you want to visit Paris in winter, you can enjoy some unique things. Which are you get only in Paris. In winter, you can ice skate at popular rinks in Paris. You can visit the Christmas Markets and enjoy the winter festival and light display. These activities make your trip perfect during the winter season.
Ice Skating at Popular Rinks
Ice skating is one of the most exciting things to do during the winter season in Paris. It will give you a very cheerful experience. There are two famous rinks. One is located in the iconic Eiffel Tower, and another is located in the Hotel de Ville.
At the Eiffel Tower, while you skate, you can experience heart-touching views of all over the city. Generally, the rink is set up on the first floor. Different types of events are organized for the audience.
World Ice Hockey Championship is one of them. After the hockey sessions, the ice rink is open for those who want to skate at the Eiffel Tower. It’s a unique, unforgettable opportunity. The hours are 10:30 AM to 10:30 PM, every day.
At the Hotel de Ville, have a popular ice skating rink. It represents the winter season of Paris. It is a great place for those seeking a perfect spot for friends and family. They are hosting different exhibitions and cultural events in the winter season. If you visit Paris for the first time, don’t miss the attractive place to explore.
Explore Christmas Markets
The Christmas Market is very popular in Paris. Basically, tourists come to the place to visit their stalls. The Christmas Market is famous for handmade gifts and home decoration products. The market is famous for its restaurants. Visitors come to taste the delicious food.
Many visitors explore ice skating here, and some visitors join their holiday workshops. In the evening, the festive lights and carolers create a splendent atmosphere. It makes these markets a favorite winter destination in the city.
Winter Festivals and Light Displays:
In winter, the Champs-Élysées and Avenue Montaigne become a magical wonderland. They are the iconic avenue sparkles with dazzling lights. It has twinkling trees and festive decorations They draw locals and tourists to celebrate the joy of the season in Paris.
Top Indoor Attractions Perfect for Cold Days
Paris is famous for its rich history, architectural design, and vibrant culture. These are the take attractions of most tourists. If you want to explore the historical and cultural elements of Paris. You can visit some famous museums and shops in the winter season. Because during the summer season, the museums become overcrowded.
Museums and Galleries: In Paris, there are some famous museums. These museums demonstrate the thousands of years past historical elements. The Louvre Museum is one of them.
The Louvre Museum is known as the national museum of France. There are collected millions of historical elements. Even the Mona Lisa painting exhibition is there. Every year, millions of visitors visit the Louvre Museum.
The summer season is the busiest time for the Louvre museum. During the winter season, it is relatively easy to get tickets for the entrance to the Louvre Museum. If you want to avoid crowds, the winter season is the best season for you.
You can also visit the Musée d’Orsay. It shows the art and design of famous artists. The smaller option will be the Musée de l’Orangerie. Both are crowd-free in the winter season rather than the summer.
- Cozy Cafes and Historic Tea Rooms: If you are a tea or coffee lover, you can visit the place during the winter season. They serve tea, coffee, and snacks. They also create a festive atmosphere for their community. It’s popular to meet with friends and colleagues. Many writers go there for book club meetings.
- Shopping in Passages and Galleries: The Covered Passages of Paris are hidden gems. They are a world apart from the crowded tourist spots and busy Grands Boulevards. It is popular for its attractive architectural design and history. These arcades consist of glass roofs, intricate mosaics, and charming boutiques. Near and far, visitors come there to explore different types of shops, cafes, and art galleries.
Pro Tips: Most of the indoor attractions are overcrowded in the summer season. If you avoid the crowds, you can choose the winter season. In the winter season, fewer tourists come to Paris to explore the places.
Day-by-Day Winter Itinerary Options
In winter, you can plan a 4-day tour of Paris. Visit the Eiffel Tower. Take a Seine cruise. See Montmartre, Sacre-Coeur, the Louvre, and Versailles.
Here is a random 4-day Paris tour plan. If you feel convenient, you can follow the plan.
Day 1:
On the first day in Paris, you should give priority to the iconic place Eiffel Tower. You can start your tourist experience by climbing the Tower by the elevator. You can see an amazing view of paris city. Besides, in winter, the tower gives you an attractive view in the evening. However, there are some popular restaurants, you can enjoy a romantic dinner there.
On the same day, you can visit the Seine River. You can take a scenic river cruise to see the city’s landmarks from a unique point of view. You can also see beautiful views of bridges and historical buildings near the river.
Day 2:
On the second day, you can visit Montmartre. It is a beautiful cultural immersion in Paris. Montmartre is famous for its artistic heritage and bohemian charm. In the art gallery, you can experience the spirit of famous artists like Picasso, Monet, and Dali. Montmartre is home to a rich history. You can also explore the winding streets and enjoy the food at a quaint bistro.
Perched on a hill, the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur has a stunning white dome. Its steps offer city views. Start your visit at the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica. It’s high on a hill. It gives a white fade and panoramic views of the city. Inside the Building, you can find beautiful mosaics and scenarios. They create a peaceful atmosphere.
Then you can visit the local market, you get vast ideas about Persian culture and products.
Day 3:
On the third day, you can reserve for the Museum day. You can visit the Louvre Museum and nearby museums like Musée d’Orsay and Musée de l’Orangerie.
The Louvre is the most popular interest in Paris. The Louvre Museum carries the renowned artwork of the Mona Lisa. Lots of visitors gathered every day to see the masterpiece. You can explore thousands of historical elements in the Museum.
The Musée d’Orsay is another famous museum in Paris. The building was used as a railway station for Gare d’Orsay before establishing the museum. You can see masterpieces by great artists like Monet, Van Gogh, Degas, and Renoir.
Day 4:
On the Fourth day, you can go to Versailles to get a magical experience in winter. It is popular for the Royal Residency of King Louis XIV. It carries the historical significance of architectural and political points of view. UNESCO declares that Versailles is a world heritage site.
Then Disneyland is familiar as The Happiest Place on Earth. You can find different environments in this area. Visitors come there to get a peaceful atmosphere. They come to spend time with their family. Many visitors claim that it’s become nostalgic. They find their childhood memories in Disneyland.
Unique Seasonal Experiences in Paris
In winter, Paris has many interesting places to visit. They offer unique experiences and vibes. For example:
- Attend a Parisian Cabaret: You can visit the Moulin Rouge, which is an iconic cabaret in Paris. The Moulin Rouge has been entertaining people for more than 130 years. It’s famous for its red windmill and extravagant performances. You can go there to enjoy their music, dance, culture and magic show. You can also visit some smaller venues.
- Visit Winter Exhibitions and Pop-Up Events: You can enjoy many concerts in Paris in winter. These include Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, and Eiffel Tower concerts.
Practical Winter Travel Tips
If you want to make your Paris trip more convenient in winter, you can follow these instructions.
- Getting Around: You can use the Parsi Metro, which has over 300 stations. It saves you time and gets you to your destination quickly. You will get benefits if you walk for short trips. Taxis and rideshares are expensive in Paris.
- Dining Suggestions: Try seasonal dishes. They include French onion soup, raclette, hot wine, Boeuf Bourguignon, and Vin Chaud.
- Staying Warm Outdoors: Stay close to cafes and public warming spaces with outdoor heat. Which saves you from snow and cold.
FAQ About Winter Activities in Paris
What are some must-visit indoor attractions in Paris during winter?
Explore the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Centre Pompidou, and Palais Garnier for art and culture.
Are there any special winter festivals or events in Paris?
Yes, Paris hosts the Festival of Lights at Jardin des Plantes and various Christmas markets in December.
What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Paris during the winter months?
Enjoy ice skating at Tuileries Garden. Take a Seine River cruise. Explore neighborhoods like Montmartre and Le Marais.
Is it advisable to visit Paris in winter considering the weather conditions?
Yes, Paris has mild winters with temperatures between 3°C to 7°C (37°F to 45°F), fewer crowds, and festive decorations.
Are there any unique culinary experiences to try in Paris during winter?
Try hearty dishes like cassoulet and tartiflette. Enjoy seasonal treats like galette des rois in cozy bistros.
Conclusion
Paris is a very popular tourist place. Every year, millions of visitors come to explore the city. But it is true that Paris is a very busy area, especially during holidays like the summer holidays. So, for those who want to avoid the busiest, overcrowded times, winter is the convenient season for them. You may only experience some exceptional events and sites during the winter. You can also enjoy a variety of cultural programs throughout this period.
