25 Cozy Things to Do in Paris in Winter: + Tips for Visiting

Visiting Paris in winter? Here’s a detailed guide to all the best things to do, tips for visiting, and why it’s a good time to visit!

When thinking of the best time to visit Paris, winter isn’t usually the first to come to mind. After all, you can’t spend time outside soaking up the sunshine like in the summer, there aren’t the pretty blooms of spring, or the vibrant foliage of autumn.

However, winter in Paris is special in its own way, making it well worth a visit. Sure, maybe the city’s Christmas Markets aren’t as well known as the ones in Germany, and you won’t really find fairytale castles covered in snow. 

But there’s still plenty of incredible things to do in Paris in winter, from exploring some world-class museums, hanging out in cozy cafes, indulging in some delectable French cuisine, and checking out the festive holiday decorations. You’ll find plenty to do on your Paris itinerary!

And best of all – you’ll get to do it all without battling crowds. Not only that, flight and accommodation prices are at their lowest, making it the most affordable time to visit.

I’ve been to Paris during winter twice now, and really enjoyed both of my visits! In fact, my very first trip to Europe was to Paris in February. I remember it was cold and a bit rainy, but I still remember being in awe at all the incredible monuments and landmarks around the city. 

Later on, I came back to visit Paris in December and the city was magical, with all of the Christmas lights and decorations –  and the Christmas Markets were a big plus too!

If you’re thinking about visiting Paris in the winter, I highly recommend it! Whether you’re looking to experience a bit of the festive Christmas season or planning a romantic Valentine’s Day getaway, here’s everything you need to know about planning a winter trip to Paris!

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A Few Things to Know About Winter in Paris…

Quick tips for visiting Paris in the Winter

• There is limited daylight: The sun rises pretty late (around 8:30 am in December) and sets pretty early (before 5 pm). You’ll want to keep this in mind as you plan your Paris itinerary.
  
• Expect brown gardens: Perhaps the biggest con of visiting Paris during the winter season is that its famous gardens will be brown. This isn’t a big deal, as there is still plenty to do and see around the city, but something to keep in mind. If you want to see everything all pretty and green, then consider visiting at a different time of year.
  
• It gets busy around the Christmas holidays: While winter in Paris tends to be the least popular time to visit, it still gets busy around Christmas. You might see more crowds during this time, so plan accordingly.

• Dress in layers: It gets pretty chilly in Paris during the winter, but it’s not absolutely freezing, especially if you have the right clothes. And outside might be cold, but the heat is usually blasting at indoor attractions. The best way to dress is in layers that you can easily take on and off. I included a few must-pack items below, or you can check out my detailed Europe winter packing list for more packing tips!
  
• Book attraction tickets ahead of time: While the crowds thin out considerably during the winter months, it’s Paris and there will probably be lines. It still gets busy at the city’s top attractions so you’ll want to book tickets ahead of time. This is especially true if you’re visiting around the aforementioned Christmas holidays!
  
• Consider buying a Paris Museum Pass or Paris Pass: I highly recommend purchasing the Paris Museum Pass, as it offers admission into over 60 of Paris’s most iconic museums and monuments for one low price. You’ll gain admission into many of the city’s top attractions, including The Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, Sainte Chapelle, Musee d’Orsay, Musee de l’Orangerie, La Conciergerie, and more. Another option is to get a Paris Pass, which includes a museum pass along with several other iconic experiences (such as a Seine cruise and a guided Eiffel Tower climb). You’ll also get to skip the line at some of these spots, another plus. Do note that some attractions (most notably the Louvre) still require you to make a reservation even if you have the pass.  
  
• Pay attention to hours and closing dates: Several museums and attractions are closed on Mondays or Tuesdays. Be aware of these closures when planning your Paris winter trip. For example, Musee d’Orsay is closed on Mondays, and the Louvre and Musee de l’Orangerie are closed on Tuesdays. Also note that some attractions may have limited hours in the winter.
  
• Bring some cash: While the vast majority of establishments in Paris accept credit cards, having a bit of cash on hand is a good idea, especially if you’re planning to visit Christmas markets.

• Paris is very walkable, even in the winter. If you don’t want to walk around in the cold, it also has an excellent subway system that can easily get you anywhere you need to go. You can also hop in an Uber or taxi, but the costs can add up very quickly.

• A little bit of “bonjour” and “merci” goes a long way: Parisians have the unfortunate reputation of being rude, which I find a bit unfair as I’ve never found that to be the case at all! However, being polite goes a *long* way in Paris, starting with greeting people with “bonjour,” and thanking them by saying “merci.” Many people in Paris speak English, and they don’t necessarily expect you to speak French, but it is appreciated if you know a few basic phrases.
  
• Beware of pickpockets and scammers: Paris is unfortunately notorious for pickpockets and tourist scams. While it may be less of a problem in the winter since it’s less crowded than in the busy summer tourist season, *always* keep your guard up and keep a very close watch on your belongings (especially at crowded Christmas Markets).
  
• Pack a power adapter: If you’re coming from the US, you’ll need a power adapter as Europe uses different plugs. 

For more tips on planning the perfect trip to Paris, be sure to read my complete 2 day Paris itinerary!

Winter Weather in Paris

One thing to know about Paris during the winter is that it tends to be cold, gray, and wet.  Average winter temperatures are below:

• Paris in December: 47° high  / 39° low
• Paris in January: 46° high / 37° low
• Paris in February: 48° high / 38° low

While it’s definitely quite chilly, it’s not extremely cold. As long as you pack the right clothes (aka lots of layers), then it’s quite manageable. 

The city sees 7-9 days of precipitation each month in the winter, and Paris in January tends to be the wettest. I definitely recommend bringing some waterproof layers if you’re visiting in winter. You can also pack an umbrella, but personally I don’t like them as they tend to get annoying to carry around after a while.

Does it snow in winter in Paris?

If you’ve ever seen photos of Paris’s iconic landmarks covered in a layer of snow, you might’ve wondered how often it snows in the City of Lights. Well, it does technically snow in Paris, but sadly, it is pretty rare.

And even though the city usually sees 3-15 days of snow every year, it’s usually light snow or flurries that aren’t enough to cover the ground. It is very rare for it to snow enough to create those magical winter wonderland vibes.

The last time there was significant snowfall in Paris was in 2018, when the city saw 5.9 inches of snow. This was enough snow to cause a bit of chaos, closing roads and disrupting public transportation.

If it does snow, it usually occurs in mid-January through mid-February, which is the coldest time of the year in Paris. If you end up visiting Paris while it’s snowing, do allow a bit of flexibility!

What to pack for Paris in winter

• Warm winter coat: I packed a waterproof winter jacket similar to this winter jacket, but if you want to be extra classy, a wool trench coat also works.
• Warm, waterproof, and comfortable boots: I packed my favorite winter boots (they’ve been discontinued but these are also similar boots) as my only pair of shoes for a week of winter weather in Europe, and they were perfect, even as I was walking over 30,000 steps a day! They kept my feet warm and dry.
• Sweaters: To add extra warmth on those chilly days/nights. A sweater dress is super cute and keeps you warm as well
• Cardigans: Also a perfect layering piece, especially because you can get them on and off easily.
• Fleece-lined leggings: Perfect under your sweater dresses, or as an extra layer of warmth under your jeans.
• Lightweight thermals: I’ve been wearing the Uniqlo Heattech shirts for years and they definitely came in handy during my time in Paris in the winter! I love that they are lightweight but keep you warm without making you sweaty and moist.
• Beanie: I also packed a knitted headband to switch it up a bit.
• Warm Gloves: These gloves also allow you to use your touchscreen smartphone without taking them off.
• Wool Socks: These wool socks will keep your feet nice and toasty (and will wick moisture)!
• Scarves: I packed a thick infinity scarf, as well as a blanket scarf (this is my favorite scarf!)
• Power Adapter: If coming from outside of Europe.
• Power Bank: To keep your devices charged – the cold makes your phone battery drain fast! I never travel without this one – one charge will give five full charges to your devices.

If you’re visiting Paris this winter and wondering what to pack (and tips for how to make it fit in a carry-on), be sure to read my detailed Europe winter packing list!

Where to Stay in Paris

There are plenty of accommodation options in Paris, to suit every budget and taste. Whether you’re looking to stay in a luxury hotel, a Parisian apartment, or a hip boutique hostel, you’ll find it all.

To help you decide where to stay, consider the geography of the city. Paris is arranged into 20 arrondissements (or districts), spiraling in a clockwise fashion starting from the tip of Ile de la Cite. 

For convenience: If you want to stay near the top things to do in Paris during winter, stay in a lower numbered arrondissement (1-8). This range covers the top attractions in the city, including the Louvre (1st), Eiffel Tower (7th), and Arc de Triomphe (8th). However, do note that these areas tend to be the priciest.

Here are some recommendations:

• Hôtel de l’Exposition – Tour Eiffel: I almost stayed here, but I ended up having to cancel that trip – boo! You can’t do much better for this location at this price – it’s located 15 minutes from Champs de Mars.e furnishings and paintings celebrating the unique history of Paris.
• Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel: If you want a hotel with a view of the Eiffel Tower, you can’t do much better than this hotel, which is located right at the foot of the tower and Trocadero.
• Le Relais Saint Honore: You can’t beat the location of this hotel, located next to Jardin des Tuileries and a short walk away from the Louvre. Each of the rooms here have a unique style.

If you’re on a budget: The higher numbered arrondissements tend to be more affordable. These neighborhoods tend to be less touristy, and less expensive. With the metro being so convenient, you’ll still be able to easily get to all the top attractions in the city.

I stayed in the 11th arrondissement, and yes, while it did take a bit longer to get around, I didn’t mind it at all. I loved that the 11th was such a trendy, up and coming area, with plenty of amazing restaurants and cafes.

Another area you might consider is Montmartre, the charming artists’ quarter located in the northern part of the city. It’s home to a number of attractions, such as the famed Sacre Coeur cathedral.

Some recommended places to stay:

• Hotel Exquis: I stayed here on my first trip to Paris and loved the eclectic, artsy vibe of this boutique hotel. The staff was super friendly and helpful (and even helped call and locate a bag that I left on the airport bus), and was always willing to give directions and recommendations. The rooms were a bit small, but I still really enjoyed staying here!
• Hotel des Arts Montmartre: This charming family-owned boutique hotel pays tribute to the artistic heritage of the Montmartre district. The location is convenient, just a short walk away from the Metro and Sacre Coeur.
• Terrass Hotel: Housed in a 19th century building in the heart of Montmartre, this property has elegantly decorated rooms that are inspired by artists’ dressing rooms. You’ll also be a short walk away from the Metro as well as some of the iconic sights of Montmartre.

Things to Do in Paris in Winter

Visit a Christmas Market

Honestly, the best reason for visiting Europe in winter is all of its magical Christmas markets. While Paris’s Christmas Markets aren’t as famous as the ones in Germany (like the Christmas Markets of Munich), or the ones in other parts of France, there are a number of them that pop up across the city. 

Opening dates vary by market, but usually run late November until early January. If you’re visiting Paris in December, they are well worth a visit!

You’ll find plenty of festive Christmas decorations set against some of the city’s most famous landmarks, along with vin chaud (mulled wine), roasted chestnuts, decadent chocolates, cheese, and more treats. In addition, you’ll find vendors selling unique handcrafted gifts, from ornaments, leather goods, knitwear, candles, and more.

Here are some of the best Christmas Markets to check out:

• La Magie de Noël at Tuileries Garden (November 16, 2024-January 5, 2025): This is the biggest and most well-known Christmas Market in Paris, taking over the entire northern edge of Jardins Tuileries between Rue des Pyramides to Place de la Concorde. It’s got a bit of a carnival atmosphere, with a large ferris wheel, rides, and more. There’s also an ice skating rink and champagne bar! In addition, there are 100 vendors housed in Swiss-style chalets selling a range of French-produced specialty food products and artisanal goods.
  
• Hôtel de Ville Christmas Market and Village (November 26-December 31, 2024): This is known as Paris’s most magical Christmas Market, thanks to the dazzling display of lights strewn across the neo-Renaissance facade of the Hôtel de Ville. You’ll also find vendors selling an array of Made in France products, along with mulled wine, raclette, Nutella crepes, and other delicious goodies. In addition, there are a number of fun activities, such as a carousel and snow tubing.
  
• Saint Germain des Prés Christmas Market (November 23, 2024-January 1, 2025): This is a midsized market located near the Saint-Germain church, with about 30-40 vendors housed in wooden chalets. They specialize in luxury goods, and you’ll find gourmet foods, leather goods, handmade jewelry, and more, that make excellent gifts. There’s also plenty of food vendors, offering tons of yummy delights, such as crêpes, raclette, and tartiflette.
  
• The Notre Dame Christmas Market art Square Viviani (November 29-December 25, 2024): This laid-back Christmas Market takes place in Square René-Viviani, with the magnificent tower of the Notre Dame cathedral as a backdrop.
  
• Montmartre Christmas Market at Place des Abbesses (2024 dates TBA): This is a relatively small market taking place in the midst of the charming Montmartre district. There’s a large Christmas tree set against the Sacré-Cœur as a backdrop, along with about 20 local artisans, designers, and creators. You can also find a variety of traditional foods, from escargot, raclette, and more.

Spend the day at the Louvre

Paris may be chilly in the winter, but luckily there’s plenty of museums that you can spend the day in to escape the cold. The most famous of these is the Louvre, which is arguably the best art museum in the world.

Even if you’re visiting Paris in winter, I highly recommend booking your timed entry ticket in advance, as it is one of the most popular attractions in the city. This will allow you to skip any long ticket queues on site, which will give you more time to explore! 

(Also FYI – even if you have a Paris Pass or Paris Museum Pass, you’ll need to make an advance reservation to visit).

You can easily spend an entire day at the Louvre, as it’s the largest museum in the world, occupying 73,000 square meters. There’s over 35,000 works of art on display here, which span over 9000 years. 

Personally, I feel like spending just a few hours at the Louvre is plenty, as it can otherwise feel very overwhelming. The museum has a self-guided tour on its website, which will allow you to check out the most famous works on display. If you want to learn more about what you’re looking at, I highly recommend booking this highly-recommended guided tour.

Many people will flock to the Mona Lisa (which really does look smaller than you’d expect), and the Venus de Milo, the museum’s two most famous works. However, I was personally most impressed with the Greek and Roman statues (which were huge), and the Egyptian wing, which I found to be really interesting.

Check out the other museums of Paris

Aside from the Louvre, there are plenty of other museums in the city to explore if you want to escape the cold of Paris in winter. There are so many incredible museums here that museum hopping is definitely one of the best Paris winter activities!

One of the most iconic museums in Paris is the Musee d’Orsay, which boasts the world’s largest collection of Impressionist paintings. The museum itself is also a sight to behold, as it is housed in a 19th century Beaux-Arts building that once used to be a train station. One sight not to miss is the giant clock tower on the top floor, which makes not only a great photo op, but also has a unique view of the city.

Another one of Paris’s famous museums is Musée de l’Orangerie, best known for housing Monet’s giant Water Lilies paintings. These wall paintings each capture the scene from his gardens in Giverny, capturing the light as it goes from light to dark. They are massive and capture so much detail – I sat in the gallery taking it all in for quite a while.

And that’s not all – there’s tons of amazing museums in Paris! Here is a list of just a few more that you can visit:

• Pantheon: Dedicated to the memory of the men and women who have marked French history since the time of the French Revolution.
  
• Centre Pompidou: Boasts a large collection of modern and contemporary art, displayed in a distinctive building.
  
• Fondation Louis Vuitton: Dedicated to contemporary art, housed in a Frank Gehry building that is a work of art in itself.
  
• Rodin Museum: Dedicated to the masterpieces of the legendary sculptor Auguste Rodin.
  
• Picasso Museum: Housed in a 17th century mansion, the Picasso Museum houses a collection of artifacts, including sketches, studies, drafts, notebooks, and etchings, that uncover the artist’s creative processes. It is a bit different from the Picasso Museum in Barcelona, which is dedicated solely to his early years.  
  
• Les Invalides: Known for being the site of Napoleon’s tomb, Les Valides also displays one of the largest collections of French military history and art. They also put on the Aura light show, an immersive experience in which you can see the monument take on a new life though light, sound, and technology.

TIP: If you’re planning to visit at least a few museums on your visit to Paris, I highly recommend purchasing the Paris Museum Pass. It offers admission into over 60 of Paris’s most iconic museums and monuments for one low price. You can choose from a 2, 4, 6, or 8 day pass. You can also consider purchasing the Paris Pass, which includes a Museum Pass along with several other iconic experiences.

Go ice skating

Is there anything better in the winter than going ice skating? Well, yes there is, because you could go ice skating while taking in some amazing views of Paris!

In 2024, a large ice skating rink is scheduled to return to the Christmas Market at Jardin Tuileries. Admission will be free, and skate rentals will be available for a nominal fee. This also means that you’ll be able to enjoy an apres-skate vin chaud!

In addition, there will be a skating rink at the Grand Palais. It is not outdoors, but get this – it’s the largest indoor rink in the world! You’ll get to glide across the ice under the stunning glass rooftop of the Grand Palais, which is a shining example of Belle-Epoque Parisian architecture.

Go window shopping on Champs-Elysées (and admire the lights)

Champs-Elysées is perhaps the most famous street in Paris. It’s the ending point for the annual Bastille Day Parade and the Tour de France. But it is also known for being one of the most famous shopping streets in the world, lined with  high-end stores and luxury boutiques.

Most of us may not have the budget to shop here (if you do, lucky you!) – but that doesn’t mean that we can’t pretend! And if you’re visiting Paris in December, then it also happens to be one of the most festive areas in the city.

Every year, the trees that line the boulevard are illuminated in millions of sparkling lights, creating an enchanting sight. The lights lead up to the iconic Arc de Triomphe, making for an especially enchanting view.

The lights go up on November 17, and stay up through the first week of January. 

In addition, many of the storefronts on Champs-Elysées put up extravagant holiday displays (similar to how the storefronts of Fifth Avenue in NYC have elaborate displays), so definitely walk down the street to check them out!

Take a cruise down the Seine River

A Seine River cruise may not be an obvious choice for one of the best Paris winter activities, but it’s definitely one of those iconic experiences, no matter the time of year! 

There are indoor cabins available on the cruises so you can take in the sights while staying out of the cold.

I always love seeing cities from the water, and Paris is no exception. It gives you such a unique perspective of the city, allowing you to take in some of its most famous landmarks in a new way. If you’re visiting Paris during the holiday season, it’s also such a cool way to take in some of the Christmas lights of the city!

It’s also the perfect way to relax and rest your feet after a busy day of sightseeing. And, you’ll get to learn more about the city’s history, as well as fun facts about some of its most iconic landmarks.

There are several options available for Seine River cruises:

• One Hour Seine Cruise: This is the standard one-hour cruise, available throughout the day.
• Dinner Cruise: This option includes a 3 or 4 course dinner that you can enjoy while taking in views of the city all lit up.
• Evening Cruise: If you want to cruise through Paris at night, but don’t want dinner, this is a good option. It also has live music and includes an aperitif.
• Christmas & New Year Lunch Cruise: If you’re visiting Paris on Christmas or New Years Day, you can celebrate on this cruise with a special meal.
• Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise: This is the perfect romantic activity if you’re visiting Paris for Valentine’s Day! 

Take in the views from the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower needs no introduction – it’s perhaps the most famous landmark in Paris, as well as one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world. Climbing atop the Eiffel Tower is one of those things that belongs on everybody’s Paris bucket list.

Built in 1889 for the World’s Fair, the Eiffel Tower was the tallest structure in the world when it was completed. It was originally intended to stand in the city for only 20 years, but it became so beloved that it was never demolished.

While it isn’t as busy as it is in the summer, the Eiffel Tower still draws many visitors during the winter season. Because of this, I *highly* recommend that you book your tickets in advance as they may still sell out!  Tickets for the summit go on sale 60 days in advance, and 14 days in advance for the second floor. 

I bought my ticket to the summit about 3 weeks before my visit to Paris in February and there were only a few tickets left. When I showed up to the Eiffel Tower, I was glad that I’d pre-booked my tickets because there was a long queue at the ticket office (and people were getting turned away). So buy your tickets early!

Buying your tickets on the official website will have the best prices, however, they are non-refundable. For added flexibility, I recommend buying your tickets on GetYourGuide instead. This will allow you to cancel without penalty, in case your plans change (or there is bad weather). 

The Paris Pass also includes access to the second floor, but note that you will have to make a reservation in advance.

There are several ticket options for visiting the Eiffel Tower. The most popular option is to take an elevator to the summit. From here, you’ll catch a birds-eye view. However, tickets are the most expensive and often sell out.

It’s definitely an iconic experience, but it was SO cold and SO windy up at the top that we barely lasted 5 minutes in the outdoor observation deck. There’s also an indoor observation deck, but it’s not quite the same.

If I were to do it again, I would probably book a ticket to check out the view from the second floor. You can either take the stairs to the second floor (the cheapest option), or take an elevator (the fastest option). If you want to check out the view from both the second floor and the summit, you can also buy a combination ticket.

It’s less windy on the second floor, so it might be a better option for winter. And honestly, when checking out people’s photos after my trip, I think the view looks better from the second floor, because you’re high enough to see the city from above, but not so high that everything just looks tiny.

Sunset is the best (and most popular) time to visit the Eiffel Tower. Aim to get in line at least one hour before sunset, so you have plenty of time to get to the top! We didn’t realize that we’d have to wait in a line in order to get on the elevators, so we completely missed sunset. Be sure to leave enough time (or just go to the second floor).

TIP: If tickets to the Eiffel Tower are sold out, check to see if there are any openings on a guided tour.

…and don’t forget to also catch the best views of the Eiffel Tower

While you should definitely go up the top of the Eiffel Tower at least once in your life, don’t forget to admire it from down below too. There are so many places in the city to catch a view of the Eiffel Tower, but here are some of the best spots:

• Trocadero: This is arguably the best view of the Eiffel Tower, since it sits directly across the river from it. It’s not exactly a secret so expect crowds, even if you visit early in the morning sunrise is at 8:30 in winter, which isn’t exactly early). Don’t miss the view from the staircase and the gardens as well.
  
• Champs de Mars: This is the best spot to catch a view of the Eiffel Tower’s sparkling lights at night.
  
• Pont d’Iena: This bridge connects Trocadero to the Eiffel Tower. Another great spot to watch the light show at night.
  

• Arc de Triomphe: I actually preferred the view from the top of the Arc de Triomphe than the Eiffel Tower. This is mostly because you can actually *see* the Eiffel Tower, set perfectly against the Paris skyline.
  
• From the bridges: Many of the city’s bridges have a great view of the Eiffel Tower, especially from Pont Alexandre III.

• Rue de’l Université: This cobblestoned street has beautiful architecture that perfectly frames the tower.

Hang out in a cozy bookshop

Located in the Saint-Germain neighborhood, once the hangout of all the great artists and intellectuals in the 1920s, is the Shakespeare & Co. bookstore. While there are a number of English bookstores in Paris, this is the best and most well known.

When you think of the perfect bookstore, it would probably look something like Shakespeare & Co., with low-hanging ceilings, comfy couches, and tons of books everywhere you look. There’s even a resident cat living on the second floor!

They also put on various events, like readings and concerts, so be sure to check their calendar to see what’s going on.

Admire the grand Notre Dame

One of the most famous churches in the world, Notre Dame started construction in the 1100s and took nearly 200 years to complete. 

A tragic fire damaged much of the cathedral in 2019, and the inside has been closed to visitors since then. However, it is currently slated to open in December 2024. If you’re visiting Paris this winter, then you’ll likely be able to go inside again!

Until then, you can admire Notre Dame from the outside, which still looks quite impressive with its grand facade with its Gothic towers. There’s also a Christmas Market and Christmas tree out front, creating a festive atmosphere.

Marvel at the stained glass at Sainte-Chapelle

Located nearby Notre Dame on Île de la Cité is Sainte-Chapelle, another one of Paris’s most beautiful churches. 

I’ll be honest and say that I didn’t really know much about Sainte-Chapelle prior to my first visit – it just seemed like a good place to pick up my museum pass. 

When I visited, I was blown away because it was absolutely STUNNING. It’s a relatively small church, but it is absolutely spectacular. The highlight here is the stained glass windows, which covered over 600 square meters of the church. It is especially beautiful in the afternoon light, when the sun streams through the windows.

I recommend purchasing a museum pass, combining your visit with La Conciergerie, or booking a guided tour in order to skip the line, as Sainte-Chapelle has gotten popular in recent years.

During the Christmas season, they also put on a series of live music performances inside the church. You can learn more and buy tickets here.

Indulge in some French pastries

From croissants, macarons, eclairs, and choux a la creme, there is an endless array of decadent French pastries to try around Paris. No matter the weather, you’ll definitely find some sweet treats to indulge your sweet tooth.

To experience the best sweet treats in the city, I recommend going on a chocolate & patisserie walking tour of the local dessert shops and cafes. In this highly rated tour, you’ll visit the Saint Germain neighborhood, home to some of the best patisseries in town.  You’ll enjoy 8 tastings while learning more about this historic neighborhood and about specialty French sweets.

In addition, here are some of my favorite dessert and pastry spots around town:

• L’Éclair de Génie: The eclairs here are each like edible works of art, that are as scrumptious and delicious as they look. You’ll find an array of incredible flavors, from the traditional (hazelnut, pistachio), to modern (apricot cheesecake, rose lychee). 
  
• Odette: One of the most iconic dessert shops in Paris, Odette is known for their dainty little cream puffs, filled with decadent cream. You’ll find a range of flavors, from passion fruit, green tea, coffee. The storefront in Saint Germain, with its black and white stripes, is iconic as well.
  
• Popelini: Another choux a la creme shop with cute little bite-sized morsels of creamy goodness. Their collection features 15 different flavors, ranging from the traditional to adventurous, each made with the finest ingredients.
  
• Du Pain et des Idées: One of the best bakeries in the city, known for their pistachio escargot. This unique pastry resembles the shell of a snail, and is filled with layers of flaky, buttery dough swirled with pistachio filling and bits of chocolate. 
  
• Laduree: Laduree is world-famous for their amazing macarons, and you’ll find locations all around the world. However, I’ve found that they’re just better in Paris, and the flagship location on Champs-Elysees is a must-visit. 

…or learn to make them yourself

While there are plenty of patisseries and dessert shops all around town, why not learn to make your favorite French pastries yourself? Plus, taking a cooking class or pastry workshop is an ideal way to escape the cold, making it one of the best Paris winter activities.

Here are some of the highly-rated classes available:

• Croissant Baking Class With a Chef: In this hands-on class, learn the secrets to shaping, proofing, and baking perfectly flaky croissants with an expert chef.
• Macaron Class at Galeries Lafayette: This 1.5 class breaks down the process of baking a macaron, from creating perfect shells to making a delicious ganache filling.
• Chocolate Making Workshop at Choco-Story: Spend 45 minutes with a chocolatier and learn to make your very own chocolate bar!
• Choux Pastry and Chocolate Eclair Making Class: Learn to make one of the most well-known French pastries in this 3-hour class. 

Go on a food tour

I’ve always loved going on food tours in any given city, as it lets me try lots of different items at some of its top spots. Especially in a city like Paris, there is sooo much delicious food to choose from – but so little stomach space!

I also love discovering more local spots that I may not have discovered on my own. I also end up learning more about the city and neighborhoods that I’m visiting – all while eating some of the most delicious things!

Here are some highly-rated food tours to choose from:

• Paris Christmas Gourmet Food Tasting Walking Tour: If you’re visiting Paris in December, this is a delicious way to experience the festive offerings. You’ll get to visit some Christmas Markets along with festively decorated dessert shops to taste some delicious holiday treats! The tour is limited to 8 people, so you get an intimate experience.
  
• Paris Gourmet Walking Food Tour: In this tour, you’ll meet a local guide at the Louvre and embark on a walking food tour to discover the finest local cuisine. Taste traditional favorites, sample some wine, and learn more about the city’s culinary heritage.
  
• Saint Germain de Pres Guided Foodie Walking Tour: This tour takes you through the historic Saint Germain district, which is also home to some of the city’s best food. Eat like a Parisian and discover local spots, and explore the picturesque streets of this charming neighborhood. 
  
• Food and Wine Tasting Walking Tour in Le Marais: Dine like a local and discover both traditional and contemporary cuisine in the vibrant Le Marais neighborhood. You’ll enjoy 11 food + 2 drink tastings, visit the oldest covered market in Paris, dine at a traditional French bistro, and more.

Indulge in a ​​Chocolat Chaud

Fewer things are better in Paris in winter than cozying up in a cafe and indulging in a hot chocolate, or a chocolat chaud. And chocolat chaud isn’t your ordinary hot chocolate – it’s rich, decadent, and sure to warm your soul.

The place to go for a chocolat chaud is Angelina, which is a Paris institution. Prior to my first trip to Paris, I had sooo many people tell me that I *had* to go to Angelina. And when I took my first sip, I could see why – it was heavenly.

They have a number of locations around Paris, including one near the Louvre, another on Rue de Rivoli near Jardin des Tuileries, and even one inside the Palace of Versailles.

Visit the Paris Catacombs

By visiting the Paris Catacombs, you’ll discover another side of the city. Paris isn’t all glitz and glamor – beneath the picturesque streets lies a whole different world. 

The Paris Catacombs consists of a maze of winding tunnels located deep underneath the city, filled to the brim with over 6 million skeletons. These are the remains of Parisians who lived in the city over centuries, dating back to the Middle Ages.

It’s an interesting attraction to visit at any time of year, but winter is an especially good time to visit. While the temperatures at the catacombs are consistent year-round, they will feel warmer during the winter (and you’ll already be dressed warmly).

You’ll also have a better chance of getting to visit, as only 200 people are allowed inside at any given time. While this means that you’ll still have to book your tickets in advance, there will be fewer people fighting for them since there are fewer visitors to Paris during winter.

However, do note that tickets are only available a week in advance, so you can’t book too early either. To get around this, I suggest booking a guided tour (which also gives you skip-the-line access, which is a huge plus), or buying this combination ticket which includes a Seine River cruise.

Wander the streets of Montmartre

Located in the northern edge of Paris, Montmartre is one of the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods. It was historically the artist’s quarter of Paris, once the home of artistic greats such as Van Gogh, Monet, Picasso, Renoir, and Degas.

These days, it’s quite frequented by tourists, but that doesn’t take away from its charm and beauty! You can still see some remnants of its artistic past at Place du Tertre, where you’ll find a number of street artists selling art and offering portraits.

It’s one of the prettiest neighborhoods to explore on foot, even in the winter. One plus of exploring Montmartre in the winter is that you’ll tend to encounter fewer crowds than in the summer, which makes exploiting the windy cobblestone streets a much more pleasant experience.

One of the most photogenic streets in Montmartre is Rue de l’Abreuvoir. At the end of the street, you’ll find the La Maison Restaurant, with its distinct pastel pink facade. Around the corner is the Le Consulat Restaurant, which is quintessentially Parisian with its red and green awning.

Montmartre is located at one of the highest elevations in the city, so you’ll catch some beautiful views. You can take a funicular to take you from the bottom of the hill to the base of Sacré-Cœur, which sits at the tallest hill in Paris. 

Sacré-Cœur is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, characterized by its white face and spectacular domes. You can climb up an additional 300 steps to the top of the domes, from where you can catch a spectacular view of the city.

Also don’t miss the “sinking” house of Montmartre, which is not actually sinking but is rather a unique optical illusion.I t’s located behind the grassy bank on the right side of the final set of stairs going up to Sacré-Cœur.

Shop the sales

If you’re a shopaholic and you’re visiting Paris in January, then you’re in luck – it’s when the department stores of the city have their legendary winter sales (or les soldes)!

Because of France’s history as a fashion capital, the industry is heavily regulated by the government. This means that, among other things, sales are only allowed to take place twice a year.

In 2025, the winter sales take place between January 8 through February 4, so it’s an ideal time for shopaholics to visit! Be sure to check out the les grand magasins of Paris to get your shop on, including Galeries Lafayette.

Marvel at the Christmas decorations

December in Paris is a magical time, as you’ll see the city become illuminated with festive holiday lights and decorations. 

You’ll find plenty of festive spots all around the city, from Christmas Markets, breathtaking light displays, to lavishly decorated trees. One way to experience the Christmas magic of the city is to take this open-top Christmas bus tour. You’ll get to take in views of the city illuminated in sparkling lights while listening to audio commentary and holiday music.

And, if you want some amazing photos of yourself with all the holiday lights, you can book a Christmas photoshoot with a professional photographer!

Here are some of the best places to see Christmas decorations in Paris:

• The Christmas tree at Galeries Lafayette, suspended from their stunning glass dome. Also don’t miss the view of the city from the rooftop. Just pay attention to their opening hours as I missed it.
  
• The Christmas light illuminations on the trees along Champs Élysées.
  
• Christmas Markets – the decorations at the Jardins Tuileries and Hotel de Ville Christmas Markets are especially gorgeous.
  
• The Christmas tree and lights at Place Vendôme
  
• Christmas lights and window displays on Rue Saint-Honoré and Rue Royale

Take a day trip to Versailles

A visit to the Palace of Versailles is one of the most popular day trips from Paris. And while it is insanely crowded during the busy summer months, the crowds significantly dissipate in the winter months.

Getting from Paris to Versailles by train is fairly easy, and the trip only takes about 40 minutes. Take the RER C (yellow) line, and look for the trains that end at Versailles Chateau Rive Gauche. Check the signs carefully, as not all trains are headed there!

I still recommend getting there a bit before opening, so you can be one of the first ones inside the palace. You should also purchase your tickets in advance (or get a museum pass, but remember to make a reservation) so you can skip the ticket line once you get there. 

Walking towards the palace, I was already in awe as it is quite an impressive sight. The gates are gold and there are gold panels all around the exterior of the palace, which look especially magnificent against a cloudy sky.

I was one of the first ones into the palace, and it was nice to have the courtyard to myself for a few minutes. The crowds started to arrive the further I got into the palace, but it never felt super crowded, even in the Hall of Mirrors. 

The inside of the palace is even more impressive than the outside, and even after visiting so many palaces in Europe, none of them quite compare to the extravagance and opulence of Versailles. It truly is breathtaking! 

One caveat of visiting Versailles in winter is that the gardens will be brown. For this reason, I recommend buying an entry ticket for the palace only. While I did buy a combination ticket with access to the gardens, I only walked around the gardens for a little bit because it was quite cold. It’s also not the same as visiting in the summer, since everything is brown. 

However, the palace itself is spectacular, so I definitely thought it belonged on this list of things to do in Paris in winter. 

Spend the day at Disneyland Paris

While a visit to Disneyland Paris is always magical at any time of year, visiting during the winter has two distinct advantages.

The first is that Disney knows how to do Christmas, and the decorations are always spectacular. While I haven’t been to Disneyland Paris during the Christmas season, I’ve visited Disneyland California at Christmas many times, and I’m always so blown away at how they manage to create an enchanting holiday experience.

In addition, they always have a selection of fun seasonal food and snacks that are fun to sample during the holidays.

And, if you’re visiting Paris in January or February, it’s also a perfect time to visit Disneyland Paris because that’s when the crowds are at their lowest. That means shorter lines so you can go on more rides!

Be sure to purchase your tickets here so you can skip the ticket line! While you can take the train from the city, you can also purchase a ticket that includes shuttle transportation for extra convenience.

Explore the covered passages of Paris

One of the best Paris winter activities to escape the cold is to take refuge in one of the covered passages around the city. 

Paris was once home to over 200 covered walkways, which housed eateries and shops on the ground floor, and living spaces on the upper floors. Today, only 28 remain, but they are a beautiful reminder of the past.Many of the remaining walkways date back to the 19th century, which was the golden age of passages. The well-known and most ornate of them is Galerie Vivienne, located near the Louvre. 

Each of the passages have a distinct style, so you won’t get bored of them, although it may be difficult to visit all of them. If you want to see the best ones, as well as learn more about them, I highly recommend going on a Paris covered passages walking tour.

Slurp on a bowl of French Onion Soup

French cuisine is perfectly suited for winter – it’s rich, hearty, and warming.

One of my favorite French comfort foods is French Onion Soup (or Soupe à l’oignon). There’s nothing like slurping on a bowl of French Onion Soup on a cold winter day, with its rich broth and cheesy toast.

And it’s just one of those things that’s better in France. You can find it at many restaurants around, but my favorite is at Au Pied de Cochon. It’s a classic French brasserie that’s been a Paris institution, and the perfect place to enjoy some comforting French cuisine. 

Catch a show at a legendary venue

Paris has a rich history in the arts, and has an acclaimed performing arts scene. You’ll find a number of legendary performance venues, and winter is the perfect time to attend a show in one of them.

Winter is the height of the opera season in Paris, and it’s the perfect time to get dressed up and catch a performance at the historic Palais Garnier, which served as the inspiration for Phantom of the Opera. It’s a stunning example of 19th century French architecture, with opulent frescoes, extravagant chandeliers, and a majestic staircase. 

Do note that when buying tickets, not all of the performances listed on the website take place at the Palais. You want to look specifically for shows taking place at Palais Garnier. 

Even if you don’t attend a performance, it’s worth taking a tour of Palais Garnier, as it is breathtakingly beautiful, and reminiscent of the Palace of Versailles.

Paris also has a rich cabaret history, and it’s become synonymous with the city. One of the most popular things to do in Paris is to attend a cabaret show at the legendary Moulin Rouge, and winter is the perfect time to do it.

While it’s admittedly a bit touristy, you’ll enjoy an evening of music, dancing, theatrics, and bedazzled costumes. You can book your ticket here, which comes with half a bottle of champagne. You can also book a dinner show for an unforgettable evening.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve

Paris is one of the most visited New Year’s Eve destinations in the world, drawing over a million visitors. After all, what could be better than ringing in the New Year than in the City of Lights, with its magnificent monuments, glittering fireworks, and festive celebrations?

The main New Year’s Eve celebration is the spectacular fireworks display. Contrary to popular belief, the fireworks show does not take place at the Eiffel Tower. Instead, it is at the Arc de Triomphe, another one of the city’s iconic landmarks. 

In addition, there are many other celebrations taking place at other venues across the city, including Moulin Rouge and Disneyland Paris.

Have you ever been to Paris in winter? What are your favorite things to do?

More Paris content you may enjoy:
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The Ultimate Paris Bucket List
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Best Paris Desserts
Is the Paris Museum Pass Worth It?
The Complete Paris Pass Review
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The Ultimate Gift Guide for Paris Lovers

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