Experiencing a Parisian Winter: Best Things to Do
If you think Paris is dreamy during the summer, you are about to be even more impressed by the gorgeous city of lights in the winter.
From the twinkling lights on the Champs-Élysées to skating at the Eiffel Tower, there is a wide range of exciting things to see and do in Paris in winter, especially in the weeks before Christmas.
Are you schooling in Paris and about to experience your first winter in the city? Let’s explore some amazing activities you can do and places to see!
Why Paris in Winter?
Paris transforms into a winter wonderland during the colder months, offering a unique charm that’s truly captivating. As the city’s streets light up with sparkling holiday decorations, there’s a magical feel that makes winter in Paris a special experience.
The landmarks you may already know and love—like the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées, and Montmartre—take on an entirely new allure, glowing with seasonal lights and festive displays.
Winter in Paris also means fewer crowds, giving you a chance to enjoy the city's beauty at a more leisurely pace. You can explore famous museums like the Louvre or the Musée d'Orsay without the typical long lines or relax in a charming café with a steaming cup of chocolat chaud (hot chocolate) while watching the world go by.
If you want to indulge in classic French cuisine, comfort foods like raclette, fondue, and warm mulled wine are available at bistros and food markets across the city.
For the holiday season, Paris pulls out all the stops. Christmas markets pop up around the city, filled with handcrafted gifts and festive treats. Special events like ice skating at the Eiffel Tower and holiday concerts add to the festive cheer.
Parisian Winter Wonderland: Top Outdoor Activities
From ice skating at iconic locations to strolling through dazzling holiday lights, here are some of the best outdoor activities to enjoy a true Parisian winter wonderland.
Ice Skating at Iconic Locations
There’s something magical about gliding across an ice rink with the most iconic landmarks as your backdrop. One of the most memorable skating spots is the rink near the Eiffel Tower, where you can skate under the gaze of the Iron Lady herself. For a festive atmosphere, the rink at Hôtel de Ville (Paris City Hall) offers twinkling lights, music, and an enchanting setup that feels straight out of a winter fairy tale.
Tip: Living near the Eiffel Tower makes it easier to access the skating rink in the area. Book luxury Paris apartments near this location so you can skate as often as you want without the stress of commuting! You ca explore exclusive private apartments in Paris on Student Luxe.
Enjoy the Holiday Lights
Paris goes all out with its holiday illuminations, transforming its streets into a glittering wonderland. A stroll down the Champs-Élysées is a must, as all trees lining the avenue are adorned with thousands of sparkling lights leading up to the grand Arc de Triomphe. Place Vendôme is another breathtaking sight, with its luxurious shops and beautifully lit trees creating a festive glow. For a bit of magic off the beaten path, check out Rue Montorgueil for a holiday photo op.
Seine River Cruise
See Paris from a unique perspective with a winter Seine River cruise. These heated boats offer a cozy way to enjoy the city’s landmarks from the water, with stunning views of the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre glowing under winter skies. Many cruises offer holiday-themed experiences, complete with festive decor, music, and warm drinks. It’s the perfect way to see the city lights and take in the magic of Paris during the winter season.
Stroll Through the Christmas Markets
Paris’s Christmas markets are a highlight of the winter season, brimming with festive stalls selling artisanal gifts, seasonal treats, and holiday decor. La Défense Christmas Market is one of the largest, featuring hundreds of stalls with everything from handcrafted jewelry to gourmet foods. For a more intimate experience, the Montmartre Christmas Market offers a charming, village-like atmosphere with views of Sacré-Cœur. Wander through these markets, sample some roasted chestnuts or mulled wine, and pick up unique souvenirs to remember your Parisian winter.
Best Parisian Winter Markets to Explore
La Défense Christmas Market: Largest market with 300+ chalets offering handmade gifts, festive foods, and mulled wine in the modern La Défense district.
Tuileries Garden Christmas Market: Central Paris market with holiday shopping, fairground rides, and traditional treats like vin chaud near the Louvre.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés Market: Cozy market by Saint-Germain church, featuring artisanal gifts like soaps, candles, and chocolates in a historic setting.
Montmartre Christmas Market: Small, charming market at the foot of Sacré-Cœur, with handmade crafts, food stalls, and stunning views over Paris.
Notre-Dame Christmas Market: Near Notre-Dame, this market focuses on local artisan goods, from leather and jewelry to gourmet foods.
Hôtel de Ville Christmas Village: Family-friendly with crafts, seasonal foods, and a small ice rink in front of Paris’s beautiful city hall building.
Explore Winter Gardens and Parks
Even in winter, Paris’s gardens and parks are worth a visit, especially after a light dusting of snow. The Tuileries Garden is particularly lovely, with its fountains and pathways set against the Louvre and other historic buildings. Luxembourg Gardens also offers peaceful walks through tree-lined paths and around beautifully sculpted statues, which look especially gorgeous in the cool winter air.
Enjoy Classic French Cinema in Historic Theaters
Winter is the perfect season to settle into one of the city’s beautiful, historic theatres to watch a classic French film. Here are some iconic spots to experience Parisian cinema in all its vintage charm:
Le Champo: Located in the Latin Quarter, this beloved art-house theater is perfect for film lovers seeking classics from French cinema history. Its cozy ambiance and retro design make it a quintessential Parisian movie experience.
Cinéma du Panthéon: One of the oldest cinemas in Paris, Cinéma du Panthéon specializes in independent and French films. Don’t miss the upstairs lounge—styled like a cozy Parisian living room—for a relaxed, post-movie conversation.
La Filmothèque: Also located in the Latin Quarter, this independent cinema is a haven for cinephiles, screening French classics and international gems. Its warm, intimate vibe adds to the charm, making it ideal for a winter cinema night.
Explore the Coziest Cafes in the City
When you need a break from sightseeing, retreat to one of Paris’s famous bookstores or cafés. These spaces offer a cozy vibe that’s perfect for unwinding on a chilly day:
Shakespeare and Company: This iconic English-language bookstore near Notre Dame is an inviting escape. Browse the books, read by the fireplace, or even attend a poetry reading if you’re lucky.
Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots: These legendary cafés in Saint-Germain-des-Prés have been frequented by writers, artists, and intellectuals for decades. Order a hot chocolate, settle into a booth, and enjoy the classic Parisian café atmosphere.
Le Procope: As Paris’s oldest café, Le Procope is steeped in history and cozy charm. Located in the Latin Quarter, it’s a delightful spot to warm up with a cup of tea or coffee.
Tips to Enjoy Your Winter in Paris
Here’s how to stay cozy, explore the city, and fully enjoy your Parisian winter:
Bundle Up: Paris can get quite chilly, so pack a warm coat, scarf, hat, and gloves. Layering is key, especially for indoor-to-outdoor exploring!
Try Seasonal Treats: Warm up with Parisian winter treats like vin chaud (mulled wine), roasted chestnuts, and rich hot chocolate from local cafés. Angelina’s near the Louvre is famous for its decadent hot chocolate.
Take Advantage of Off-Peak Attractions: Winter means fewer tourists, so it’s an ideal time to explore popular sites like the Louvre, Notre Dame, and the Eiffel Tower with shorter lines and more space.
Explore Indoor Markets: Beyond the Christmas markets, check out Paris’s indoor food markets, like Marché des Enfants Rouges, where you can sample French cuisine in a warm, cozy setting.
Plan for Limited Daylight: With shorter days, plan your outdoor activities for daylight hours and enjoy evening experiences like cozy dinners or a visit to a historic cinema.
Use Public Transport: Paris’s metro and buses are convenient and efficient, especially in winter weather. They’ll keep you warm and help you get around quickly without braving the cold for too long.
Wrapping Up
From exploring twinkling Christmas markets to cozying up in cinemas and indulging in classic French cuisine, winter in Paris allows you to experience the city in a different way.
Whether you’re wandering the streets lined with lights or enjoying hot chocolate at a café, Paris provides endless ways to create unforgettable winter memories. Embrace the slower pace, enjoy the seasonal delights, and let the City of Lights brighten your winter days and nights.
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