Worried the cold and gray skies might spoil your trip? Don’t be. As someone who’s spent many winters here, I can promise — Paris in winter has its own quiet kind of magic.

Yes, it’s chilly and sometimes wet, but that also means fewer crowds and a calmer way to see the city’s big sights. You can linger longer, take your time, and feel a bit more like a local.

Paris doesn’t lose its charm in winter — it simply shifts. Think cozy cafés with steamed-up windows, rich hot chocolate, and museums that feel even more inviting when it’s drizzling outside.

In this guide, I’ll share my favorite things to do in Paris in winter — from must-see landmarks to smaller museums, festive shops, and local spots that make the cold season something to look forward to.

Salut, I am Lena – travel planning expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

📌 200+ handpicked spots I actually love – Get free access to my Paris map 🗺️

The image shows a beautiful colonnade in Paris, with rows of arches and hanging lanterns that create a rhythmic, symmetrical view. The sunlight casts long shadows across the intricately patterned tiled floor, enhancing the architectural elegance of the space. The pathway, bordered by ornate iron gates, leads into the distance where a few pedestrians are walking. The scene captures the serene and timeless atmosphere of Paris, highlighting the city's rich architectural heritage. — taking a walk at Palais Royal is nice no matter the season

These articles are interesting for your upcoming trip as well:

Take a look as well at our monthly guides to get detailed info on what’s going on during your stay.

Paris in Winter: Your Complete Guide

I know visiting Paris in winter might not sound like the obvious choice. But believe me — the colder months reveal a whole different side of the city, and it’s one you’ll love.

By the time you finish this guide, you’ll be ready for your trip. You’ll know what to pack, what to expect from a winter stay, and, most importantly, all the best things to do in Paris when the temperature drops.

Exterior of Café de Flore in Paris during winter, with holiday decorations and empty outdoor seating under a clear sky, highlighting the charm of this iconic Parisian café even in the colder months. — ^{The Café de Flore in Paris – a unique and iconic place, as well in Winter}

Don’t get me wrong — winter in Paris has its downsides. It’s cold, often rainy, and the days are short.

But that also means more time to enjoy the city after dark, when Paris glows with lights and reflections. You can linger in cozy cafés, tuck into long dinners, spend hours in museums, or browse warm, elegant shops without feeling rushed.

And there are other perks to coming now: fewer crowds, better hotel prices, and — maybe best of all — the Christmas season. Paris in December feels truly magical. Some even consider winter the best time to visit Paris.

Your Winter Trip to Paris: Know Before you Go

Before diving into all the winter fun, make sure you’ve got the basics covered. My Paris Essential guide will help you plan your trip smoothly and skip the rookie mistakes.

When is Winter in Paris?

Winter officially begins on December 21, but in Paris, it really starts earlier. By late November, the air has that crisp edge, the lights are up, and the Christmas markets have already opened.

It’s also when the Christmas season in Paris truly kicks in. The city glows with decorations, shop windows sparkle, and every neighborhood feels touched by the holidays.

Just keep in mind that Christmas is family time in France. Schools close a few days before Christmas and reopen in early January, so travel and restaurants can get busier around then.

While most of winter counts as shoulder season in Paris, Christmas itself is very much high season — both in spirit and in crowds.

The image shows a quaint Parisian street scene in winter, viewed from the terrace of a café. Red bistro chairs and small round tables line the sidewalk under a canopy, ready for patrons to sit and enjoy a coffee despite the chilly weather. Across the cobblestone street, a building with white façades and classic French windows adds to the charm, while a few pedestrians and café-goers are gathered near a yellow-awning storefront in the background. The atmosphere is calm, capturing a typical Parisian neighborhood momen — The cafés in Paris have their outside seating areas set up even in winter

How’s the weather in Paris during winter?

It does get chilly in Paris, no doubt about it. December tends to be milder than January or February, though often a bit more humid. On average, winter temperatures range from 3° to 9°C (37°–48°F).

That said, Paris weather can surprise you. I’ve seen mornings as cold as -10°C (14°F) and afternoons as mild as 15°C (59°F). If you’re visiting Paris in March, expect things to feel gentler — winter is already fading by then.

Days are short, too. Around the solstice, the sun doesn’t rise until about 8:45 a.m. and it’s dark again before 5 p.m. Perfect for long dinners and evening strolls through the city lights.

Will there be Snow in Paris?

No, I’m sorry — Snow in Paris is rather unlikely. Even in winter, it’s rarely cold enough for it to settle. When flakes do fall, they usually melt into gray slush within minutes.

In the past twenty years, I can remember only three times when snow actually stayed for a bit — once, amusingly, at Easter.

The image shows a serene winter scene at the Sacré-Cœur Basilica in Montmartre, Paris. The steps leading up to the basilica are covered in snow, creating a peaceful and quiet atmosphere. The iconic dome of the basilica looms in the background, partially shrouded by mist and framed by bare, snow-dusted tree branches. A solitary street lamp stands along the path, adding to the timeless, almost ethereal quality of the scene, which captures the quiet beauty of Paris in winter. — ^{This picture was taken a few years ago, and it was one of the VERY few times that I’ve witnessed snows in Paris}

What do you Need to Pack for Your Winter Trip to Paris?

Keep in mind that the temperatures above are just averages — so yes, you’ll need proper winter gear. Bring a warm hat, scarf, fleece jacket, and maybe even long underwear if you’ll be outside for long stretches. It can drop well below 0°C (32°F).

That said, layers are key. The moment you step into a shop, café, or museum, you’ll be peeling things off — interiors are often very warm.

→ Tip: I always keep a small tote in my bag to stash my scarf, hat, or even my jacket when I’m indoors for a while. It saves juggling everything or overheating halfway through lunch.

Lena with winter jacket, scarf and hat enjoying a warm coffee from cafe kitsune at Palais Royal - her jacket is a little wet and in the background you have autumn yellow trees — the only snow day in 2024 – it did not stay

Packing for you Trip to Paris During Winter

For winter in Paris, pack smart and stay warm. Along with a good jacket and scarf, bring waterproof shoes — they’ll keep your feet dry and steady on the city’s often slick streets. (I love this pair, it looks city-ready but has a good grip.)

Rain gear is essential. Ponchos aren’t really a thing here — and honestly, they’re awkward when you’re ducking in and out of cafés or shops. A compact umbrella is much easier to handle. I use a small travel umbrella that fits right in my purse.

Make sure you’ve got these winter essentials with you — they’ll make a big difference once you’re here:

Comfortable shoes or sneakers: It’s just a rumor that Parisians don’t wear them. Their favorites are a pair of VEJA and as of 2025, a pair of Adidas Classics
A Scarf a must!
A small travel umbrella: This one fits in every purse
my savior for unsteady temperatures: a lightwight downjacket to easily add a layer
Warm Merino Socks: These ones were a real game changer for: They feel like normal socks but keep you warm, without over heating, and they prevent blisters.

Paris on New Years Day — It’s quiet on the 1st of January in Paris

Plan ahead for the Top Sights in Paris

Before you dive in and start planning, a quick but important note: for many of Paris’s main sights, booking tickets in advance is almost essential.

I know — it takes a bit of the spontaneity out of your trip. But there are good reasons to plan ahead:

→ Popular places like the Eiffel Tower or the Catacombs often sell out weeks in advance.
→ Even if you find last-minute tickets, you might end up queuing for hours.

To save time (and frustration), I strongly recommend reserving your entrance tickets before you arrive. It makes your days smoother — and your mornings in Paris much more enjoyable.

Below are the sights where tickets sell out the fastest. I’ve added links to my trusted booking partners so you can secure your spot with peace of mind.

You can also buy tickets directly on the official websites of each sight. The only downside is that they usually don’t offer free cancellation.

While reserving your Paris tickets with get your guide grants you a 24h cancel and refund policy. It’s a small detail that can make a big difference if your plans change or the weather is really not in your favoir.

The image shows the elegant façade of a building in Place Vendôme, Paris, adorned with luxury boutiques. The architecture is classic, with tall windows, ornate columns, and a symmetrical design. High-end stores like Dior, Patek Philippe, Mikimoto, and Repossi are visible, each framed by festive decorations, including small Christmas trees. A grand blue door sits in the center, adding a bold contrast to the cream-colored stonework. The overall scene exudes Parisian sophistication and luxury, reflecting the prestige of this historic square. — ^{Place Vendôme in Paris – a good address if you want to spend serious money}

29 Idea for your Winter Trip to Paris

Now that you’re ready for your winter trip to France, it’s time for the fun part — deciding what to do once you’re here.

Here are a few must-dos that belong on every Paris winter bucket list:

→ Evening Cruise on the Seine (1 hour) – Watch Paris light up from the water.
Get your tickets here

→ Eiffel Tower Summit at Sunset – The city looks even more magical under a winter sky.
Get your tickets here

→ Masterpieces at the Louvre – A perfect way to spend a chilly afternoon.
Get your tickets here

#1 Take a Seine River Cruise

I took this cruise last year with my son, and we loved it

It might sound a bit cliché, but a cruise on the Seine is genuinely special — even more so in winter. Watching Paris light up at night from the water feels quietly romantic, and the city looks entirely different from this angle.

It actually took me years of living here before I tried a Bateau Mouche, and I couldn’t believe what I’d been missing. The perspective is incredible — landmarks you’ve seen a hundred times suddenly feel new.

And the best part? You can stay warm inside the glass-covered cabin while gliding past the glittering banks. Some boats even serve dinner, which turns it into a lovely evening out.

Pick one of these options, suitable for every budget:

Or take a look at my article about 5 Best Seine River Cruise in Paris: Your Ultimate Guide for a more detailed breakdown.

The image shows a peaceful autumn scene along the Seine River in Paris. The sunlit pathway beside the river is lined with trees in various stages of shedding their leaves, creating a blend of autumn colors. On the left, classic Parisian buildings rise above the stone embankment, while people stroll along the riverside enjoying the crisp weather. The calm water of the Seine reflects the clear blue sky, and in the distance, a bridge arches over the river, connecting the two sides of the city. — Early winter days along the Seine

#2 Take a Macaron Baking Class

→ here’s the Macaron workshop I joined: Macarons in the Galerie Lafayette

Winter is the perfect season for baking, and there’s no better place than Paris to master the art of creating delicious, delicate macarons. Paris boasts many cooking schools where you can learn this skill, but here are the top ones:

I joined this class in the Galerie Lafayette myself, and it was such a lovely experience. The chef made it easy, even for beginners, and I left with a box full of pastel-colored macarons — and a big smile. I can’t recommend it enough.

The image is a collage with two parts. On the left, a woman takes a selfie in a modern, well-lit kitchen space. She wears an apron that reads "Galeries Lafayette" and holds a phone in one hand. The room has a clean, minimalist design with tables and stools in the background. On the right, there is a close-up of a freshly made macaron on a plate, with a piping bag in the background, suggesting a cooking or baking class. The scene is cozy and inviting, capturing the essence of a hands-on culinary experience in Paris. — my very first Macaron

#3 Visit the Fantastic Museums in Paris

If you’re an avid museums’ enthusiast, the Paris Museums Pass is your best option.

When the weather turns gray, there’s no better plan than spending a few hours in one of Paris’s many museums. The only challenge? Choosing which one.

The city has more than 150 museums, from world-famous institutions to small gems tucked away in old mansions. A few classics you can never go wrong with:

It’s best to book your tickets in advance, especially for the Louvre. Queues can stretch for hours — and no one enjoys waiting in the cold. → Click here for tickets and rates

→ Local tip: Skip the main glass pyramid entrance at the Louvre. The lines are often longer there. Instead, head to the underground entrance at the Carrousel du Louvre — it’s usually much faster.

Close-up of Impressionist Flowers Impressionist-style close-up of two blooming pink flowers with lush brushstrokes in green, lavender, and purple tones, evoking a dreamy garden feel. — Close-up of a Monet painting at the Musée Marmottan Monet

The Louvre and Musée d’Orsay are everyone’s go-tos, but if you’ve already seen them (or prefer something smaller), Paris has plenty of fascinating alternatives:

If you’re planning to visit several museums, look into the 2-day Paris Museum Pass. It gives you skip-the-line access to more than 60 museums and monuments — and it usually pays for itself after just a few visits.

It’s excellent value, especially if you’re only in Paris for a few days. Check current rates or check out Kasey’s review on the Museums Pass.

Also interesting: 18 free Museums in Paris (+tips to save on the others)

Louvre in Winter - the Tuileries are open during Winter in Paris and are a great place for a walk if you are looking for things to do in Paris in Winter — ^{The Tuileries Garden in Paris – The weather can be so sunny, but you see that it’s actually freezing. A lovely day!}

#4 Take some “Me Time” at a Spa

There’s really nothing better on a cold, rainy Paris day than spending a few relaxing hours in a spa. I’ve been to the Lush Spa a few times and really liked it — it’s cozy, creative, and smells just like their shops (so you’ll need to enjoy those signature Lush scents!). You also need to book quite early — spots fill up fast.

For something easier to book — and a bit more down to earth — try Massage Concept. It’s not as fancy, but the massages are great, the atmosphere is calm, and the location couldn’t be more central. I’ve been once and left feeling properly relaxed.

And if you’re after an authentic hammam experience, head to La Grande Mosquée. The setting is beautiful, the ritual traditional, and it’s one of those local experiences that feels timeless in winter.

Bon Marché at Christmas — Bon Marché during Christmas time

#5 See a Cabaret Show

Make it a night to remember — book your Moulin Rouge dinner show in advance.
Check availability here →

A cabaret show is one of the big experiences in Paris — a true classic, and even better on a chilly winter night. Dinner, Champagne, and dazzling costumes, music… it doesn’t get much more festive than that.

If you’re not sure where to go, take a look at my guide to the best cabarets in Paris — it’ll help you choose the right one for your evening.

The Dinner Shows at the Moulin Rouge are especially popular. And here’s a fun fact: the more than 125-year-old theatre is the world’s largest single buyer of Champagne!

This image features the iconic Moulin Rouge in Paris, with its bright red windmill atop the building and bold signage. The facade includes vibrant posters of performers, hinting at the venue's famous cabaret shows. The surrounding architecture and overcast sky add to the classic Parisian charm of this legendary location. — Cabarets are very popular in Paris – and there are more than just the Moulin Rouge

#6 Have Fun at a Pub Quiz

Are you wondering what to do in Paris at night when picnics by the Seine are off the table? Try a pub quiz night!

It’s a long-standing tradition here, and you’ll find quiz nights in almost every Irish, English, or Scottish pub across the city. Some of the most populars are at McBride’s Irish Pub, held every Monday and at the Rush Bar on Sundays— fun crowd, good drinks, and plenty of friendly competition.

#7 Take a Sightseeing Tour in a Vintage Car

Winter might not be ideal for a hop-on-hop-off bus tour — especially the open-roof kind — but it’s perfect for something more Parisian: a private sightseeing tour in a vintage Citroën 2CV.

It’s cozy, fun, and full of charm. Your driver doubles as a local guide, sharing stories and little-known details as you roll through the streets. Expect plenty of photo stops — from the elegant boulevards to tucked-away corners most visitors never see.

Click here for more info, rates, and options

The image captures a charming street in the Montmartre district of Paris. The narrow cobblestone road is flanked by traditional Parisian buildings with shuttered windows and wrought iron balconies. A vintage light blue Citroën 2CV is parked on the street, adding a nostalgic touch to the scene. In the background, a tower rises above the rooftops, and the street gently curves uphill, creating a picturesque view typical of Montmartre’s winding streets. The overall atmosphere is quiet and quintessentially Parisian. — Unique Sightseeing Tour in a Vintage Citroën

#8 See the parades for the Chinese New Year

The Asian Quarter in the 13th arrondissement is home to the largest Chinatown in Europe, making it the perfect place to celebrate Chinese New Year.

The main parade takes place around Place d’Italie and Avenue de Choisy, and it’s a colorful, energetic event — dragons, drums, costumes, and all. Arrive early if you want a good spot along the route!

→ Bonus: It’s completely free — one of those authentic local experiences that doesn’t cost a cent. (here’s my full list of free things to do in Paris)

And if the weather is kind, stay a little longer to explore the neighborhood. The 13th arrondissement is fascinating beyond Chinatown. Wander through Butte-aux-Cailles, a charming hilltop neighborhood with narrow streets and village vibes, or stroll along Boulevard Vincent Auriol, where huge street art murals turn the buildings into an open-air gallery.

Read my full neighbourhood guide of the 13th Arrondissement with itineraries for more info.

a red wallace fountain in the 13th arrondissment, the Parisian China Town — A red wallace fountain in the 13th Arrondissement

#9 Spend a Fun Day at Disneyland Paris

Get your Disneyland tickets right here

Winter at Disneyland Paris is truly magical and offers two big advantages: stunning Christmas decorations in December and shorter queues in January and February

It’s also incredibly easy to reach — just a 40-minute direct train ride from central Paris. Click here for tickets.

Up for a trip to Disney? Don’t miss our Disney Articles:

#10 Explore the Covered Galeries of Paris

Find my free walking itinerary with exact location here

When it’s cold or rainy, there’s no better place to wander than Paris’s covered passages. These elegant arcades are remnants of the late 19th century, when flâner — strolling simply for the pleasure of it — was almost a way of life.

Back then, Parisians loved to walk, shop, and be seen, but muddy streets and constant drizzle made it less appealing. The solution? Glass-roofed galleries lined with boutiques, cafés, and bookshops — the passages couverts. They were the original shopping malls, offering shelter and style all at once.

Today, they still carry that quiet elegance. You can browse antique bookstores, stop for coffee, or just enjoy the light filtering through the glass ceilings. It’s Paris at a slower pace — and perfectly suited to winter days.

For more details and exact locations, check out my article on the 14 most charming Arcades in Paris—it even includes a handy map.

The image shows the entrance to Galerie Vivienne, one of Paris's most famous covered passages. The ornate iron gate, topped with a green sign bearing the gallery’s name in gold letters, is flanked by beautifully detailed stone carvings. Inside, warm golden lights illuminate the passageway, highlighting its elegant 19th-century architecture. The entrance is framed by two charming storefronts with red awnings, adding to the historic and sophisticated ambiance. The scene captures the timeless allure of Parisian shopping arcades. — ^{The Galerie Vivienne is a covered passage in the center of Paris and a good activity for rainy days in Paris}

#11 Attend a Reading at Shakespeare & Company

There are quite a few English bookstores in Paris, and some host regular events like readings or small concerts.

My favorite, though, is Shakespeare and Company, — a true Paris icon. Check their events calendar; there’s almost always something happening, often in the evenings. But even if your trip doesn’t line up with a reading, the store is still absolutely worth a visit.

It’s one of those places that feels timeless — all creaky floors, stacked books, and little reading nooks. And if it looks familiar, you might have seen it in Before Sunset with Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy.

If you’re here outside the high season, you might even slip in without queuing.

The image shows the exterior of the famous Shakespeare and Company bookstore in Paris. The charming storefront, painted in green and yellow, is adorned with books, signs, and a small chalkboard menu. A tree stands in front, next to a historic Wallace fountain, which is painted dark green. The bookstore's iconic name is displayed prominently above the entrance, while bookshelves filled with second-hand books are visible outside, adding to the literary and bohemian atmosphere of this beloved Parisian landmark. — ^{The bookstore Shakespeare & Company hosts readings and other events.}

#12 Sign up for an Escape Game

It’s not the cheapest activity, and you’ll need to book ahead, but escape rooms in Paris are absolutely worth it. The city has an incredible range of themes — from Maya temples and haunted manors to submarines, Japan, and even the catacombs.

Whatever your interest, there’s an escape room for you — and many are available in English. There are several good companies around Paris, but my favorites are HintHunt and The Game.

I’m a big fan of escape rooms myself and had so much fun with the Assassin’s Creed and Japan-themed games — challenging, creative, and surprisingly immersive.

#13 See a Concert in Paris

Finding a good concert in Paris can feel a bit overwhelming — the city is packed with venues, bars, and open mic sessions.

Start by browsing through the main Paris concert venues to find a place that fits your taste. You can also check the concert listings on the concert calendar, fnac.fr or Ticketmaster , both of which cover everything from intimate jazz shows to big-name tours.

Or, you can check out one of Paris’s world-class jazz clubs. The most renowned are Le Duc des Lombards, near Châtelet, and Le Bal Blomet in the 15th arrondissement — both legendary spots where the music, ambiance, and crowd make for an unforgettable evening.

Concert Hall in Paris with Theater Rangs — Trianon Concert hall in Paris (at a Tom Odell Concert)

#14 Take a swim at Aquaboulevard

Aquaboulevardis Paris’s biggest water park and a great option for families. It’s packed with fun — artificial waves, 11 waterslides (a few of them outdoors), wakeboarding, and a tropical, almost Caribbean vibe.

It’s the perfect place to warm up and have a bit of indoor fun, especially if you’re visiting Paris with kids. A few hours here are enough to forget it’s winter outside.

#15 Put on Your Coat and Have a Walk

Winter in Paris can be cold, but it’s rarely freezing. Throw on a good coat, a scarf, and maybe a hat, and you’re all set to face the chill — or, as I like to joke, the humidity that somehow finds its way into your bones. Don’t worry, though, it’s all part of the experience.

A walk is always a good idea here — whether it’s along the Seine, through the Bois de Boulogne or Bois de Vincennes, or simply wandering Montmartre, Père Lachaise cemetery, or the Marais. Just get outside — it’s worth it.

And if you plan to explore some of Paris’s beautiful parks during your stay, take a look at this guide first: Most Beautiful Parks in Paris

The image shows a cold winter morning along the Seine River in Paris. A line of bookstalls, known as "bouquinistes," are open along the stone embankment, displaying various prints, books, and artwork for sale. The ground is dusted with snow, and the bare trees cast long shadows across the path. A few pedestrians are seen walking along the riverside, bundled up against the chill. The scene captures the quiet, timeless charm of Paris, even in the winter season. — ^{A cold winter walk along the Seine. I took this picture in February 2021 – one of the few occasions when we had snow}

#16 Go Shopping

To say Paris is good for shopping would be an understatement. The city is a shopper’s paradise, full of stylish boutiques and charming streets to explore.

But if the weather turns gray and outdoor strolling isn’t an option, don’t worry — Paris has you covered. Head to one of the city’s big shopping centers, like Les Halles, La Beaugrenelle, or Le 4 Temps at La Defense.

Each offers plenty of shops under one roof — perfect for a rainy afternoon. And if you end up at La Défense, take a short detour to see the Grande Arche while you’re there — it’s one of Paris’s most striking modern landmarks.

#17 Have a hot Chocolate at Angelina

Hot chocolate is the ultimate Parisian remedy for cold days. And there’s no better place to enjoy it than Angelina, the city’s most famous tearoom. Their rich, velvety chocolate has been a winter favorite for generations.

Angelina has several locations in Paris, but they’re all popular — it’s worth reserving a table in advance, otherwise it’s often booked out or you’ll queue for hours.

You can also try Carette, known for its elegant pastries, or enjoy high tea at Hôtel Le Carillon for something a little fancier. For a more casual atmosphere, head to a café like Les Deux Magots and watch the world go by with a steaming cup in hand.

High tea at the Hotel Crillon with Champagne — ^{Hightea at the Hote Crillon – I chose Champagne but you can also have a hot chocolate}

#18 Enjoy the best Cocktails in Paris

here are my recommendation for Speakeasy Bars & Cocktail Bars

Paris has plenty of excellent bars serving world-class cocktails — the perfect alternative to a wine bar or the usual brasserie. These spots feel a little more refined, a touch more creative, and every drink tastes like a small culinary invention.

If you want to treat yourself, head to Danico, tucked behind the Italian restaurant Daroco — chic, intimate, and known for its inventive mixes. It’s one of those places where even the simplest cocktail feels like an experience.

My local tip: Make sure to tell the bouncer you’re coming for the bar, not the restaurant.

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, set off to explore Paris’ speakeasy bars — hidden, atmospheric, and full of character.
And if you prefer something more refined, take a look at my guide to the best cocktail bars in Paris, handpicked with the help of an cocktail and spirit expert .

The image shows two cocktails on a wooden bar counter, set against a backdrop of shelves filled with vinyl records. The drink on the left is a pale amber color, garnished with a single green leaf and served over ice, while the drink on the right is a lighter yellow, adorned with a small edible flower. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with a focus on music and a cozy bar atmosphere, suggesting a trendy spot for enjoying craft cocktails in a relaxed setting. — Cocktails at Fréquence – one of my favorite bars in Paris

#19 Visit an Aquarium

The Aquarium of Paris,located right in front of the Eiffel Tower, is the largest in the city. Beyond its 43 tanks filled with colorful sea life, it offers plenty of extras — workshops, short films, live shows, and even a Sunday brunch.

If that sounds a bit pricey, consider the Aquarium Tropical in the Palais de la Porte Dorée. It may be smaller and less flashy, but it’s charming and offers a similar experience for a fraction of the price — only about €8, and free for visitors under 26.

And while you’re there, you can also explore the National Immigration Museum., housed in the samebuilding — a fascinating bonus stop.

#20 Enjoy a Wine Tasting

France is the wine country — no need to argue about that with any French person! And Paris is a wonderful place to enjoy a wine tasting, especially when it’s cold and gray outside.

Click here to discover some of the most popular wine-tasting sessions in Paris and find out about their current rates and availability.

If you’d rather sip at your own pace, head to one of the city’s many wine bars. My personal favorite is Cave Legrand, tucked inside the elegant Galerie Vivienne — perfect for a refined tasting experience.

For something more relaxed, try Le Mary Celeste, a casual spot with excellent wines and fresh seafood to match.

The image shows a cozy dining setting featuring a bottle of Diane de Belgrave 2015, a Haut-Médoc red wine from Bordeaux. The bottle is placed on a wooden table alongside a glass of red wine, a slice of baguette, and a plate with slices of chorizo and prosciutto. In the background, the bar area of a bistro is visible, enhancing the ambiance of an intimate French dining experience. The scene evokes a sense of enjoying fine wine and charcuterie in a relaxed, Parisian atmosphere. — ^{Paris is a good place to attend a wine tasting, especially when it’s cold and rainy outside!}

#21 Go wild on Paris’ Winter Sales in January

Date for 2026: 7th January to 3rd February

Whether you’re planning a full shopping tour or just browsing, Paris is the city for finding a good deal.

My bargain tip: visit your favorite stores a few days before the official sales start. Most shops are already preparing, and you’ll spot the pieces that will soon be discounted — often gathered together on display.

Then, come back early on the first day of the sales and grab them at the reduced price.

#22 Play Arcade Games at “La Tête dans les Nuages”

Whether you’re 5 or 50, who doesn’t enjoy a good pinball game now and then? La Tête dans les Nuages” one of the largest arcade centers in Paris, with more than 100 gaming terminals.

It’s the perfect spot for a fun afternoon — especially on a rainy day in Paris. And it’s not just for kids or teenagers; adults end up having just as much fun.

Whether it’s winter or any other season, La Tête dans les Nuages is a great place to tap into a bit of nostalgia and enjoy some lighthearted entertainment.

#23 Take a Cooking or Pastry Class in Paris

How about bringing home a new skill as your Paris souvenir? Learn how to make croissants, prepare a magret de canard or a filet mignon, or master the art of baking an authentic baguette.

Cooking classes in Paris are not only fun but also a wonderful way to connect with French culture — and you’ll leave with something far more memorable than anything you could buy in a shop.

The countless Parisian cooking classes have for sure something for your taste (and to impress your friends back home!) How about a 3-course Lunch including wine and a market visit?

Or maybe you are more up for learning how to bake Macarons?

Also Read: The Best Pastry Classes in Paris: Croissant, Macarons & More

Macaron making in Paris- several colourful macarons placed on a little plate — ^{Learn how to bake delicious Macarons from a Parisian Chef}

#24 Play Board Games at the “Dernier Bar avant du Fin du Monde”

Rainy days and board games are a perfect match. Head to Le Dernier Bar avant la Fin du Monde — “Bar at the End of the Universe” — order a Mario Bruschetta, sip a Death Star Cocktail, and pick a game from their huge library.

It’s quirky, welcoming, and full of little surprises. Don’t forget to snap a photo on the Iron Throne or take a selfie with R2D2 before you leave.

#25 Got to the Movies

Sure, you could watch a movie at home — but Paris has so much more to offer than the big, modern cinemas like UGC, Gaumont, or MK2. The city is full of charming, historic theaters that make movie-going feel special again.

For a memorable night out, try Cinema Luxor, Le Grand Rex or La Filmothèque du Quartier Latin — each with its own atmosphere and history.

If your French isn’t quite up to speed, look for screenings marked VOST or VO — those are shown in the original language with French subtitles.

And for something truly different, don’t miss La Peniche Cinema, a floating movie theater where the setting is just as memorable as the film itself.

The image shows the Grand Palais in Paris transformed into a large ice-skating rink. The glass-domed ceiling allows natural light to flood the space, highlighting the green ironwork of the building's structure. The rink is crowded with skaters enjoying the experience beneath the grand arches and elegant architecture. The sheer size and grandeur of the venue, combined with the festive activity, create a magical winter atmosphere in one of Paris’s most iconic settings. — Le Grand Palais des Glaces Crédit photo Didier Lefèvre – Groupe Ludéric Patinoire

#26 Put the Skates on – Go Ice skating

From 13 December 2025 to 7 January 2026, an ice rink will return to the spectacular Grand Palais — one of the most beautiful settings imaginable for skating in Paris.

It can get quite busy, so make sure to book your slot in advance if possible.

But besides from this, there’re often several pop-up rinks appear around the city, and it’s easily one of the best seasonal activities to enjoy. Because there aren’t any permanent rinks in Paris, locals get genuinely excited when they open.

The locations change slightly each year, so it’s worth checking closer to the season to see what’s planned for 2025/2026.

#27 Visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral

Notre-Dame Cathedral is back — fully reopened in 2024 with a beautifully restored face. After years of careful work, its stone carvings and stained glass finally shine again.

Winter is high season for visitors, and Notre-Dame draws huge crowds. Entry is still free, but it’s best to book a timed ticket in advance if you don’t want to spend your morning waiting in line.

If you prefer a quieter visit, come early — just before the gates open, when the parvis is still calm. Take your time inside: admire the rose windows, the Crown of Thorns, and the cathedral’s 800-year history.

You can even climb the towers for that classic view over Paris and the Seine. It’s one of those places that never loses its magic — no matter how many times you’ve seen it.

Dozens of lit white candles arranged on a circular stand fill the foreground, with the gothic interior of Notre-Dame Cathedral and a vibrant blue rose window in the background. The tall vaulted ceiling and detailed stonework create a serene, reverent atmosphere. — the Cathedral of Notre Dame

#28 See the Lady and the Unicorn Tapestries

Tucked inside the Musée de Cluny in the Latin Quarter, the Lady and the Unicorn tapestries are among the most enchanting works of art in Paris — and a perfect stop on a winter day.

It’s six tapestries that are more than 500 years old. Each representing one of the senses: sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell — plus a mysterious sixth, often interpreted as love or understanding.

The Musée de Cluny itself is a gem — part Gothic mansion, part Roman bath ruins — and wonderfully calm compared to the city’s bigger museums. It’s one of those places where time seems to slow down, and where you’ll leave feeling like you’ve uncovered a secret part of Paris.

Intricate medieval tapestry from the Musée de Cluny in Paris, featuring a noble lady and her maid inside a tent, flanked by a lion and a unicorn. The rich red and blue textile is filled with floral patterns and symbolic creatures, evoking the legend of “The Lady and the Unicorn.” — The Lady and the Unicorn tapestry

Wrapping It Up

Paris in winter isn’t about rushing from sight to sight — it’s about slowing down and seeing the city differently. The crowds thin, the lights glow brighter, and everyday moments start to feel special: a quiet coffee in a corner café, the sparkle of the Seine at night, the hum of conversation behind steamed-up windows.

Yes, it’s cold, sometimes gray, and the days are short. But that’s exactly what makes it so atmospheric. You’ll find warmth everywhere — in the scent of freshly baked croissants, a glass of wine shared indoors, or the laughter spilling from a cozy bistro.

If you come with the right layers and an open mind, winter in Paris can be one of the most rewarding times to visit. Fewer queues, better hotel deals, and a slower, more intimate pace — it’s the season when Paris truly belongs to those who take the time to enjoy it.

So bundle up, grab that umbrella (just in case), and let yourself flâner — even in the drizzle. Paris in winter has a quiet magic all its own.

For more information, also read my article about Christmas in Paris:

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Must-Haves for Paris:

eSim card to stay online while in Paris. I used GigSky for my travels.
You likely need a travel adapter to plug your devices.
Travel Insurance – if you don’t have one, VisitorsCoverage is a good option.
If your flight is delayed or even canceled, use AirHelp to get compensation.

Tours & Attractions:

I book tours & activities through Get Your Guide or Viator.
Museum & Landmark tickets can be cheaper on the official page, but they are often sold out.
I love the GoCity Travel Passes for easy planning
I use Tiqets for Seine Cruises because with my code SALUT5 we get 5% off

Flights & Transportation:

Accomodation: