VISITING PARIS IN THE WINTER: EXCITING THINGS TO SEE & DO
This post shows you Visiting Paris in the Winter: Exciting Things to See & Do
Paris has a way of stealing your heart, no matter the season. But there’s something different about it in the winter.
Winter in Paris doesn’t look like the pictures you see online. It’s not always bright or dreamy.
Even some days are grey, some streets are quiet. And really? That’s what makes it worth experiencing.
There’s no rush. No crowds pushing past you. You can walk into places without standing in line for an hour.
You can sit in a café and actually hear yourself think. You notice little things, like how the steam from your coffee hits your face when you sit by the window.
The first time I visited Paris in the winter, it wasn’t planned. My mom and I were both tired, life had been a lot that year. We were having a conversation and said, “Let’s go somewhere quiet,” and we ended up booking Paris.
It was cold. Really cold. But the city felt calm. No crowds. No rush. We spent most of our days walking, stopping for hot drinks, and warming our hands in small cafés.
That trip didn’t fix everything. But it reminded us that sometimes, all you need is a quiet city, cold hands, and a warm drink shared with someone you love.
If you’re wondering whether Paris is worth visiting in the winter, well, it is. . There are enough things to see and do, but also enough space to just enjoy being there.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the most exciting and meaningful things to do in Paris during winter.
WHY VISIT PARIS IN THE WINTER?
Paris is a city that never loses its charm, regardless of the season. However, visiting Paris in the winter has its distinct advantages:
FEWER CROWDS:
Unlike the bustling summer months, winter offers a quieter, more serene Paris. Popular attractions like the Louvre and Eiffel Tower are much less crowded.
FESTIVE ATMOSPHERE:
From November to January, the city is adorned with Christmas lights, holiday markets, and festive displays.
ROMANTIC VIBES:
Picture yourself bundled up in a scarf, holding hands with your loved one as you walk along cobblestone streets dusted with snow.
BUDGET-FRIENDLY:
Winter is considered the off-season, which means flights and accommodations are often more affordable.
TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO IN PARIS DURING WINTER
1. GO TO THE CHRISTMAS MARKETS
Parisian Christmas markets, or marchés de Noel, are among the most enchanting in Europe. From wooden chalets to handmade crafts and warm mulled wine, these markets are perfect for immersing yourself in the festive spirit.
There is also a lovely Christmas market at Tuileries Garden, and it’s one of the biggest in Paris.
In there you’ll find an ice skating rink, food stalls, hot chocolate, mulled wine, and handmade gifts from local artisans.
The market is set up in the fairgrounds inside the park, and it feels like a mix of a Christmas village and a carnival.
There’s even a Ferris wheel that’s open all year round, adding a little extra magic to the festive scene
MARKETS TO VISIT:
- Champs – Élysées Christmas Market: This is a sprawling market with gourmet treats and artisanal gifts.
- La Défense Christmas Village: A modern market with over 300 stalls.
- Montmartre Christmas Market: Set against the charming backdrop of Sacré-Cœur.
2. MARVEL AT FESTIVE LIGHTS
Take away the Christmas lights, and you are taking away a piece of what makes Paris magical in winter.
It shines even brighter during winter, thanks to its spectacular holiday light displays.
Paris is known for many things, and during Christmas, the lights are one of the most special parts.
You’ll find them on almost every street, hanging above the roads, wrapped around trees, and glowing in shop windows.
These lights aren’t just decorations. They make the whole city feel warm and full of life, even when it’s cold outside.
If you’ve never been to Paris in December, this is something to look forward to. The lights are part of what makes winter in Paris feel so magical. Without them, it wouldn’t feel the same.
MUST-SEE ILLUMINATIONS:
Champs- Élysées: The iconic avenue is adorned with twinkling lights.
Place Vendôme:
Known for its luxurious decor.
Galeries Lafayette:
The department store features an awe-inspiring Christmas tree and themed windows.
3. ICE SKATING AT ICONIC LOCATIONS
Winter in Paris wouldn’t be complete without a glide on the ice. Many temporary rinks pop up across the city.
There are quite a good number of places to go ice skating in Paris in winter, from the Hôtel de Ville to the Eiffel Tower.
But for something truly special, go between 9 p.m. and 2 a.m. for a nightclub-style skate.
TOP SPOTS:
PATINOIRE DE LA TOUR EIFFEL: Skate with a view of the Eiffel Tower.
HÔTEL DE VILLE: A charming rink near Notre-Dame Cathedral.
GRAND PALAIS DES GLACES: A grand indoor skating experience.
4. COZY UP IN PARISIAN CAFÉS
Parisian cafés are perfect for warming up during the chilly winter months. Sip on velvety hot chocolate or enjoy a classic French pastry while watching the world go by.
The café culture in Paris leans into a slow pace of living, one where you have time to really enjoy a drink or even a meal, prepared and presented with care, and also get to enjoy the people you are with.
BEST CAFÉS TO TRY:
ANGELINA: Famous for its rich, creamy hot chocolate.
LES DEUX MAGOTS: A historic café frequented by intellectuals.
CAFÉ DE FLORE: A quintessential Parisian spot.
5. VISIT MUSEUMS AND INDOOR ATTRACTIONS
Winter is the perfect time to explore Paris’s world-class museums and indoor landmarks.
Visiting Paris in winter is a perfect opportunity to visit every major Paris landmark without much crowd around.
TOP RECOMMENDATIONS:
The Louvre: Home to iconic artworks like the Mona Lisa.
Musée d’Orsay: A treasure trove of Impressionist art.
Opéra Garnier: A stunning architectural masterpiece.
6. TAKE A WINTER SEINE RIVER CRUISE
A Seine river cruise offers a unique perspective of Paris, especially during winter when the city’s lights reflect on the water.
Walking by the Seine is something you should always do when you’re in Paris. But if you want to make your Christmas really special, try a river cruise on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.
It’s a peaceful and beautiful way to see the city. You’ll pass by famous places like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame, all lit up for the season.
Cruise companies like Bateaux Mouches, Bateaux Parisiens, and Paris Seine – La Marina offer lunch and dinner cruises during Christmas and New Year’s.
Some even include fireworks. This is a calm, serene way to enjoy Paris during the holidays and create a memory you won’t forget.
You can go for an evening cruise to enjoy the illuminated landmarks.
7. EXPERIENCE WINTER FASHION SALES
Paris is synonymous with fashion, and winter brings the biannual Soles (sales).
Paris Fashion Week happens all year round, and winter is no different. In late January, designers show their Fall/Winter collections for menswear.
Then, around late February or early March, it’s the women’s turn, with the Fall/Winter womenswear shows taking the stage.
You can shop for luxury brands at discounted prices in the city’s top shopping districts.
BEST SHOPPING AREAS:
LE MARAIS: Trendy boutiques.
SAINT-HONORÉ: High-end designer stores.
BOULEVARD HAUSSMANN: Home to iconic department stores.
8. ENJOY SEASONAL FRENCH CUISINE
Winter in Paris is a food lover’s paradise. Indulge in hearty French dishes and seasonal treats.
WHAT TO TRY:
RACLETTE AND FONDUE: Perfect for sharing on a chilly evening.
GALETTE DES ROIS: A traditional Epiphany pastry.
VIN CHAUD:Mulled wine sold at markets and cafés.
9. DAY TRIPS FROM PARIS
If you have extra time, consider exploring nearby destinations that are equally magical in winter.
It wouldn’t be really nice not to visit Paris and not tour different locations.
So, map out a day and go on trips while in Paris.
BEST DAY TRIPS:
Versailles: Experience the grandeur of the palace with fewer visitors.
Mont-Saint-Michel: A fairytale-like island with snow-covered rooftops.
Strasbourg: Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” it’s a must-see for festive vibes.
10. ATTEND WINTER FESTIVALS AND EVENTS
Paris hosts several winter events that showcase its culture and traditions.
Notable Events:
Paris Fashion Week (January): Witness cutting-edge fashion.
Nuit Blanche (February): A night of art and creativity.
PRACTICAL TIPS FOR VISITING FOR VISITING PARIS WINTER
Dress Warmly:
Layer up to stay cozy. Don’t forget a waterproof jacket, scarf, and gloves.
Plan Ahead:
Many attractions have shorter hours during winter. Check schedules in advance.
Use Public Transport:
Paris’s metro system is efficient and warm, making it ideal for winter travel.
Learn Basic French:
A few phrases can go a long way in enhancing your experience.
11. EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF MONTMARTRE IN WINTER
Montmartre, with its bohemian charm, becomes even more enchanting in the winter.
Take a leisurely stroll through its winding streets, visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and enjoy a quiet moment in the snowy Place du Tertre.
12. WARM UP AT PARISIAN THERMAL SPAS
Escape the cold by pampering yourself at one of Paris’s luxurious spas. Many offer thermal baths, massages, and wellness treatments.
TOP SPA SPOTS:
Spa My Blend by Clarins at Le Royal Monceau.
Les Bains Paris, combining history and relaxation.
13. WATCH A SHOW AT THE MOULIN ROUGE
Treat yourself to a night of spectacular entertainment at the famous Moulin Rouge.
This iconic cabaret offers dazzling performances that make for a memorable Parisian evening.
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14. TAKE A STROLL THROUGH JARDIN DES TUILERIES
While not in full bloom, the Tuileries Garden has a serene, frosty beauty in winter. Bundle up and enjoy a peaceful walk through this historic park.
15. VISIT THE CATACOMBS OF PARIS
For something unique and slightly eerie, head underground to the Paris Catacombs. Winter is the perfect time to explore this fascinating historical site with shorter queues.
16. ATTEND A CLASSICAL MUSIC CONCERT
Winter in Paris brings numerous classical music concerts, often held in breathtaking venues like Sainte-Chapelle or La Madeleine Church.
17. EXPLORE COVERED PASSAGES
Paris gets cold in the winter, but you don’t have to stay out in the chill. The city has covered passages, indoor walkways with glass roofs, lined with shops and cafés. You can warm up, grab a bite, and browse old books, art, and antiques.
These passages were built in the 1800s to keep rich shoppers out of the rain. Today, they’re still full of charm. Check out Passage du Grand-Cerf, Galerie Vivienne, or Passage Jouffroy.
Paris’s passages couverts are hidden gems, offering cozy shopping experiences away from the cold. These historic covered arcades house quaint boutiques.
MUST-VISIT PASSAGES:
Passage des Panoramas
Galerie Vivienne
18. WANDER THROUGH THE PÈRE LACHAISE CEMETERY
Although unconventional, a winter visit to Père Lachaise Cemetery offers a peaceful and reflective experience. Pay respects to famous figures like Oscar Wilde and Edith Piaf.
19. TAKE A FOOD TOUR
Winter is an excellent time to join a guided food tour of Paris. Sample local delicacies like fresh baguettes, gourmet cheeses, and decadent pastries while learning about Parisian culinary culture.
20. VISIT DISNEYLAND PARIS IN WINTER
Just a short train ride from the city, Disneyland Paris transforms into a magical winter wonderland. The park features festive decorations, seasonal shows, and even faux snow!
Visiting Paris in the winter is a truly magical experience, filled with enchanting sights, delicious food, and cozy moments.
If you’re exploring festive markets, indulging in seasonal cuisine, or admiring the city’s iconic landmarks without the crowds, winter in Paris promises memories that will last a lifetime.