Paris in Winter: Insider’s Guide to Planning the Perfect Winter Vacation
I visit Paris every year, and while I don’t always go in winter, some of my favorite memories involve the city at its coldest. There’s something special about Paris in winter. There are fewer crowds, cozy cafés, and festive lights that make even an ordinary street feel magical. Plus, who doesn’t love vin chaud?
I still remember sipping mulled wine at a Christmas market near the Tuileries Garden, smelling warm nutella in the air from a nearby crêpe stand, and watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle in the distance. That is an actual memory I have from visiting Paris in winter, and you can easily recreate it.
Winter doesn’t slow Paris down; it just shifts the pace. Yes, you’ll spend more time inside, but you’ll see the city through a softer, more romantic lens. Trust me, you won’t run out of things to do in Paris just because it’s winter.
Plus, you really should be eating French pastries all year round.
Winter in Paris: Quick Guide
Short on time? Here’s a quick guide for how to make the most of amazing vacation in Paris in winter:
What’s the weather like?
Winter runs November to March and rarely dips below freezing or snows. Pack winter essentials, but it’s not the arctic
Where to stay:
- Hôtel Regina Louvre for luxury
- Hôtel de Londres Eiffel near the Eiffel Tower
What to do:
- Visit Christmas markets by the Tuilleries or the Eiffel tower
- Go to a wine and cheese tasting
- Take a patisserie class in a French bakery
- Visit all the museums you want! I love the Musée d’Orsay and the Centre Pompidou.
Why Visit Paris in Winter?
There are real perks to visiting Paris in the colder months.
Hotel prices drop, department stores like Galeries Lafayette light up with elaborate window displays, and you can actually enjoy the Louvre without elbowing your way through crowds.
You might even see some motorcycle-riding Santas…
I first visited in winter for my cousin’s wedding, and now I’m dead set on making an entire trip based around Christmas markets in Europe.
Whether you’re planning a holiday getaway or just want to experience the city in a quieter season, Paris winter is ideal for anyone who doesn’t mind bundling up in exchange for a more local, intimate feel.
You’ll also get a chance to see Parisians embracing their city in a more relaxed way (thanks to fewer tourists), which adds authenticity to your experience.
Winter in Paris Weather: What to Expect By Month
Winter in Paris isn’t like the arctic. Sure, it’s cold, it might even snow, but it’s bearable (in my opinion). The winter season runs from November ~ March but the temperature rarely goes below freezing. You’ll need legitimate winter clothing (gloves, hats etc), but it’s not too bad.
November Paris Weather
November marks the transition into winter. Temperatures range from 45–55°F (7–13°C), and the city begins to decorate for the holidays. It’s less crowded and a good time to catch the start of the festive season.
December Paris Weather
December is festive and lively. Expect highs around 45°F (7°C) and lows in the upper 30s (3–4°C). Christmas markets are in full swing, and the city is dressed to impress. You’ll also enjoy extended shopping hours and seasonal menus at local restaurants. You might see some snow in December.
January Paris Weather
January is the coldest month, with temperatures hovering between 35–45°F (2–7°C). It’s also the quietest, making it perfect for fewer crowds and deep discounts in the shops thanks to the post-holiday sales. It’s a great time to enjoy Paris like a local, and be prepared for snowflakes.
February Paris Weather
February stays cold, with average temperatures ranging from 36–46°F (2–8°C), but Valentine’s Day adds a romantic air. It’s a lovely time for couples or solo travelers who enjoy a peaceful pace. Some museums and attractions also offer special Valentine’s Day events or promotions.
March Paris Weather
March is a transitional month where Paris slowly begins to thaw. Temperatures typically range from 41–55°F (5–13°C), with longer daylight hours and early signs of spring. While rain is still common, parks like the Tuileries Garden start to bloom and café terraces begin to reopen. It’s a quieter time to visit, with fewer tourists and a renewed local energy.
Best Things to Do in Paris in Winter
When it comes to what to do in Paris in the winter, there are some classics that remain vital to the city no matter the season.
Visiting amazing museums housing artworks by Van Gogh and Degas, eating flaky croissants, sipping local wine, and enjoying as much bread and cheese as you can get your hands on doesn’t change just because there’s snow.
Here are some of my favorite activities in Paris in winter:
Explore World-Class Museums
We have to start here because Paris is obviously home to some of the best museums in the world, and winter is a great time to enjoy them. I actually think winter is the perfect season to visit because there are fewer tourists crowding in with you.
You can spend a few hours at the Louvre (this tour takes you straight to the masterpieces), or head to the Musée d’Orsay (one of my personal favorites, I recommend skipping the line with a guide) for impressionist masterpieces.
If you like modern art, I personally love the Centre Pompidou (so long as you buy a timed entry ticket online, you should be good to go).
It’s obviously warm inside museums, there’s a coat check, and you can always grab a “chocolat chaud” at the museum café.
Visit Paris Christmas Markets (Late November–December 31)
I adore the Christmas markets. They are just as magical as they seem in the movies, and I don’t care if they’re touristy.
If you’re visiting during the holiday season, these markets are a must. It’s also where you should do all your holiday shopping. The Tuileries Garden hosts one of the biggest, but you’ll find smaller ones sprinkled throughout the city, from Saint-Germain-des-Prés to the Champ de Mars in front of the Eiffel Tower (my favorite!).
Think mulled wine (which my family tells me is poor quality, but honestly I don’t care), artisan gifts, and cheese and wine tastings that warm you right up.
Go Ice Skating With a View
I’ll be honest with you, I have atrocious balance. But if you’re a more coordinated human, several outdoor ice skating rinks pop up around the city in winter, including one on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower and another on the rooftop of Galeries Lafayette.
Rent a pair of skates and take in the skyline while gliding through a uniquely Parisian winter tradition. Some of these rinks also offer themed nights or DJ sets, making them even more fun.
See a Parisian Cabaret Show
For a night of high-energy entertainment, nothing beats a classic Paris cabaret. Two of the most iconic venues, the Crazy Horse and Moulin Rouge, have unbelievable burlesque performances with a distinctly Parisian flair.
These shows are a warm, lively escape from the cold and a unique cultural experience in their own right. Plus honestly they’re just fun. Le Crazy Horse was one of my favorite things I’ve ever done in Paris in all the years I’ve been, and I have a full review here on exactly why it’s worth it.
This year I’ll be checking out the Moulin Rouge (I’ve already booked my tickets! Both shows sell out months in advance), so I’m excited to compare the two.
Enjoy a Seine River Cruise
These cruises are a beautiful way to see so many city sights, but you want to make sure you go with a solid company that serves actually good food. I specifically recommend this lunch cruise because it’s fully enclosed (aka warm), offers an authentically French 3-course meal, and has plenty of champagne and wine (which I love in any activity, really).
Indulge in Fondue & Raclette
All French food is delicious, but when it comes to winter comfort food, fondue is hard to beat. I honestly get this every year, no matter the season.
Montmartre is the classic neighborhood for fondue (check out Le Refuge de Fondus) where you’ll find bubbling pots of melted cheese alongside crusty French bread and charcuterie. Order a glass (or a bottle?) of white wine and embrace the season.
Raclette (melted cheese on potatoes) is also hugely popular in Europe. My family makes it every season, and I promptly fall asleep after.
Take a Cheese and Wine Tasting Class
On that note, if you want to dive into the local food scene without braving the cold for every stop, a cheese or wine tasting class is a great option.
I highly recommend this 5-star Montmartre cheese and wine tasting. I prefer small group anything, so I like that this experience is intimate, informative, and includes ten different French cheeses paired with five wines.
The instructors are actually pretty fun also, so yes, you eat and drink delicious things, but you also learn about the history and origins throughout France. It’s the perfect indoor treat for a cold afternoon in one of my favorite neighborhoods.
Behind-the-Scenes Paris Bakery Class
I take cooking classes in literally every city I visit, and getting to see a bakery in action in Paris is one of the coolest things you can do (plus, it’s inside 😂). You’ll learn to bake bread and real French pastries (be prepared to be shocked at the amount of butter you use) and it’s a really, really fun afternoon. Plus, it’s another excuse to eat patisserie (not that you need one).
This particular class is unique because it’s in an actual french bakery, so it also sells out often. I’d recommend booking ~ a month in advance if you want to go.
Take a Day Trip from Paris to Versailles
I love, love, love Versailles. Built in the 1600s, it’s just as ornate as you would expect from French royalty. I feel like Marie Antoinette (in her early, headed days) when I walk around it.
Versailles is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from Paris, even in the winter. You can buy tickets at any metro or RER (the Paris local train) station and buy a ticket to Versailles Château Rive Gauche. It should cost you about €8. A metro worker can help you too.
Once there, the Palace of Versailles is just a short walk from the station.
In winter, the palace is far less crowded, which makes exploring the Hall of Mirrors and the royal apartments feel even more grand.
While the gardens are more subdued than in summer, the architecture and symmetry remain impressive against a winter backdrop. That being said, I wouldn’t recommend taking any tours that focus on gardens if it’s cold AF.
If you’re looking for a stress-free experience, I recommend this Skip-the-Line Versailles Classic Tour, which includes priority access so you don’t have to wait outside in the cold.
Prefer something more private? Book this Half-Day Private Guided Tour with Hotel Pickup. It’s more expensive, but it includes door-to-door service and a guide who tailors the visit to your pace. It’s perfect if you want a seamless, in-depth experience without the hassle of navigating the Parisian metro or waiting in line.
Enjoy Winter Walks Around the City
Don’t skip outdoor sightseeing just because it’s cold. Unless it’s truly blizzarding (which is rare), it’s worth it to put on a cute coat, hat, chic gloves, and head out into Paris.
The core landmarks like Notre Dame, the Eiffel Tower, and the Arc de Triomphe are just as stunning in winter. Some of my favorite photos involve just a few snowflakes and the Eiffel Tower.
Escape the Cold in Historic Department Stores
If you need a break from the outdoors, step inside Galeries Lafayette or Printemps. I know shopping might sound silly, or obvious, but the decoration is pretty spectacular.
These classic Paris department stores are known for their ornate interiors and over-the-top holiday displays, especially in December. Kind of like New York 5th avenue Christmas displays.
They’re also great for browsing French brands and finding fashionable winter gear. At the very least head to the upper floors for a drink.
Where to Stay in Paris During Winter
I have a complete breakdown of where to stay in Paris, but I generally recommend you look for hotels in central areas like Le Marais, Saint-Germain, or near the Tuileries Garden for easy access to top sights.
If you’re visiting for the Christmas markets, consider staying near Champs-Élysées or the Eiffel Tower to soak up the holiday magic. Boutique hotels often offer seasonal perks like mulled wine in the lobby or festive decor that adds to the experience.
Top Picks for Winter Hotels:
- Hôtel Regina Louvre (Luxury | Near the Louvre): This gorgeous hotel is right near the louvre and perfect if you want to wander to major attractions (or major shopping) without having to go far. It’s truly the definition of luxury and a perfect romantic option. Check out the latest prices and availability here.
- Hotel de Londres Eiffel (Affordable Luxury | Near the Eiffel Tower): I love this hotel because it fits within a reasonable (okay, Paris vacation) budget and it’s nestled right by the Eiffel tower. Check out the latest prices and availability here.
Getting Around Paris in Winter
Paris in winter is incredibly walkable, but when the weather turns rainy or cold, the metro is your best friend.
The Paris metro system is extensive, efficient, and mostly underground, making it a comfortable way to explore the city during the colder months. You can easily use Google Maps to get around.
Most stations are within a five-minute walk of major attractions, and the trains run frequently. Seriously, if you look up directions and you have to walk more than five minutes to the closest metro station, you’ve probably done something wrong
Clearly, I love public transportation, and it’s nothing to fear. You can buy a Navigo Easy card (that you tap to enter the metro) from a machine or from a staffed ticket window. Don’t be scared, they’re used to dealing with tourists so they usually speak English.
If you prefer staying above ground, Uber is readily available and very safe.
FAQs About Visiting Paris in Winter
Mais, oui! You’ll find smaller crowds, festive charm, and a cozy ambiance that makes winter a fantastic time to experience the city.
Absolutely. European Christmas markets just give the season a little extra shine. From November through December 31, the city sparkles with lights, Christmas markets, and festive events. It’s one of the most beautiful times to visit. I recommend the Christmas market by the Eiffel Tower! It’s small but beautiful, especially when the Eiffel tower sparkles (every hour on the hour for five minutes, starting at sundown).
Winters in Paris are cold but rarely snowy. Temperatures usually range from 35–55°F (2–13°C), with frequent light rain or mist. The city stays lively and walkable.
It depends on your tolerance for chill, but with proper clothing, January is a great time to visit. It’s calm, more affordable, and the perfect season to experience Paris like a local. It rarely dips to freezing, but you might see a few snowflakes.
It can sometimes snow, but it’s pretty rare and usually doesn’t snow more than a few inches. I’m telling you, you’ll be fine.
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love Paris in Winter
Paris in winter is really beautiful. If this is the time you have to visit, do it! Embrace the slower pace, the smaller crowds, and the chance to see a quieter side of a famously busy city.
Whether you’re warming up with fondue in Montmartre or admiring the lights of the Eiffel Tower with a glass of wine in hand, this season offers a unique kind of magic. You may even find yourself falling more in love with the city than you would in high season.
Cheers to your next adventure 🇫🇷❄️
