Paris has a special type of magic all year round and the winter is not left out. Starting in November, the big summer crowds thin out. That means you get better deals on hotels and flights. It also means you can actually get into the popular spots without a huge wait. Just a heads-up: some places might have shorter hours or be closed, so a little planning goes a long way.
Paris in Winter: What to Know Before You Go
First, let’s talk about the weather. Paris in winter is known for being a bit cool and damp. Don’t expect a lot of sunshine, but don’t expect feet of snow, either. Temperatures are usually between 40-50°F (4-10°C) during the day. It can be rainy or misty, so a travel umbrella is your best friend. The days are short, but that just makes the city’s beautiful lights feel even more magical.
A good quality, warm coat is a must. Bring sweaters, a scarf, gloves, and a hat. For your feet, make sure you have comfortable, waterproof boots—you’ll be doing a lot of walking on those wet cobblestones.
Paris in Winter: Christmas in the City (December)
By early December, the holiday spirit is everywhere. The Christmas markets pop up, filling the air with the smell of spiced wine and grilled chestnuts. You’ll find them at places like the Jardin des Tuileries, La Défense,Gare de l’Est and more. If you have time, it’s worth taking a train to Strasbourg or Colmar for their famous markets—they’re truly something special.
Around the second week of December, the major department stores get in on the action. The windows at Galeries Lafayette and Printemps become works of art, and the giant Christmas tree inside Galeries Lafayette is a must-see. It’s a real holiday moment.
This is the time to eat and drink your way through the city. You have to try a hot chocolate (Angelina is a classic!), some gooey raclette, and a cup of vin chaud (hot wine). Just be aware that as Christmas gets closer, the city gets busy again. Book any tours or activities ahead of time so you don’t miss out.
January & February: The Quiet After the Storm
After the holidays, Paris gets really quiet. The decorations come down, the big crowds are gone, and it feels like the city belongs just to you. The weather is cold, but that’s what makes it perfect for indoor activities.
This is the best time to visit all those famous museums like the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay. You can actually get up close to the art without a million people in the way.
January is also when the big winter sales, or les soldes, start. So if you’re looking for a good deal on clothes or anything else, this is your chance. You can also escape the cold in one of the city’s beautiful covered passages, like Galerie Vivienne, or catch a show at the Palais Garnier.
March: A Hint of Spring
By March, you can feel the city waking up. The weather starts to warm up, and the days get longer. The crowds, which were thin in January and February, start to pick up again as people venture out to enjoy the first signs of spring.
The best part? You get to see the first flowers of the year. Look for cherry blossoms blooming in parks like the Jardin du Luxembourg or around the Eiffel Tower at the Champ de Mars. The café terraces begin to fill up again, and it’s a great time for a walk along the Seine without needing to be bundled up quite so much.
Winter in Paris is about slowing down and enjoying the cozy side of the city. Instead of racing from one spot to the next, you can take your time. It’s a different kind of trip, but it’s one you won’t forget.
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