What to do in Paris this winter: ideas and activities not to be missed
Paris in winter has a unique atmosphere. The buildings are all lit up, winter markets bring a buzz to the streets, the museums offer a cultural haven away from the cold, and all the stunning views that Paris offers are bathed in a soft light. Even when temperatures drop, the French capital is still an incredible destination. Whether you're with family or friends or travelling solo, you'll find plenty of ideas for making the most of the city. And don't worry if you're visiting Paris with children - we've got you covered. Check out our guide to activities to do with kids in Paris in winter.
To extend the experience, combine your visit with a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Paris.
Paris under winter's spell
Soaking up the atmosphere of iconic areas
Winter shows the historical areas of the city in a different light.
Montmartre in winter offers scenes straight out of a film set. The narrow, sloped streets, artists’ studios and view of the rooftops of Paris create a peaceful atmosphere. The Place du Tertre is quieter, making it easier to enjoy the Sacré Coeur and the area's little eateries.
As for Paris's Latin Quarter, winter does nothing to dampen its buzz. Its bookshops, independent cinemas and historic cafés are perfect for a cosy break out of the cold. You can also go to Île de la Cité for a walk and admire Notre Dame cathedral, fully restored to its former glory.
Over at the Tuileries garden, the paths are less busy. The garden offers beautiful views of the Louvre, Place de la Concorde and the Champs Élysées in winter, with a soft light ideal for photos.
Vistas and viewpoints
Winter is an interesting time to enjoy sweeping panoramas of Paris. The city's rooftops and observation decks sometimes have heated areas so you can admire the view in comfort.
The panorama from the Eiffel Tower remains a must-see. And don't miss the view from the Arc de Triomphe in winter either, with its perfect vantage points over the Champs Élysées. For a view with a difference, head to the Parc des Buttes Chaumont.
The banks of the Seine also offer fantastic scenery. From Pont Alexandre III, you can gaze out over the river with the Grand Palais, Les Invalides, and the boats slowly cruising along.
Arcades and winter walks
Winter walks in Paris can also be under cover. Paris's arcades are perfect for taking a stroll without worrying about the cold. Passage Vivienne, Passage Jouffroy and Passage Verdeau let you combine shopping, cafés and a retro atmosphere.
For those who like walking, the banks of the Seine are still a great place to go in winter. You just need to wrap up warm. From the Conciergerie to the Louvre and the Passerelle des Arts bridge, every view along the way tells a story.
Museums and temporary exhibitions
Unmissable Paris museums
Winter is the perfect season to explore the major cultural attractions.
The Louvre often attracts somewhat fewer visitors in winter than during the French spring bank holiday weekends or the summer peak season. This makes for a smoother visit, whether you're interested in ancient art, Italian painters or great French masterpieces.
The Musée d’Orsay is just as enjoyable to visit in the winter. The Impressionist art remains just as impressive and the huge nave bathed in soft light makes for a wonderful refuge on chilly days.
There's no shortage of museums to visit in Paris. With options ranging from the Centre Pompidou or the Musée Rodin to the Musée de l’Orangerie or the Petit Palais, you can put together a Paris cultural programme that suits you.
Temporary exhibitions and cultural events
The temporary exhibitions on offer in Paris change regularly, so there is always something new to discover on a trip to the city. There is an extensive programme throughout the winter, ranging from immersive installations to retrospectives, contemporary art to old masters.
The Grand Palais Immersif, Palais de Tokyo and Fondation Louis Vuitton are very popular, especially with visitors looking for indoor activities.
Winter activities and leisure
Ice skating
Winter sports lovers also have a treat in store for them in Paris in the wintertime. Every year, a number of temporary ice rinks are set up in iconic spots, adding a magical touch to the season.
The most popular ice rinks include:
- the Grand Palais ice rink
- the ice rink on the roof of the Printemps Haussmann department store
- the Tuileries ice rink
- the Forum des Halles ice rink
- the ice rink at the Champ de Mars market
- the Accor Arena ice rink
Circus and shows
There's also no better time than winter for enjoying a show in Paris.
The Cirque d'Hiver (Winter Circus) is one of Paris's most iconic places. Its family-friendly programming and friendly atmosphere make it the perfect late afternoon or evening activity.
Disneyland Paris
A trip to Paris in the winter can also be a chance to enjoy a magical day at Disneyland Paris. The park is wondrously decorated, the rides and attractions are in full gear and the shows offer a moment of pure escapism, whether visiting as a family, a group of friends or a couple. What with the parades, meet and greets with characters and twinkling lights from late afternoon onwards, the experience is even more immersive in the winter. It's an enchanting interlude at the edge of the city, easily accessible by RER or on the dedicated shuttle buses.
Spas and Turkish baths
After a day exploring Paris in the wintry weather, a wellness session is an excellent way to recharge. The French capital is packed with spas and Turkish baths where you can enjoy relaxing treatments, heated pools and calming rituals, whether you're on a romantic break, visiting with family or travelling solo. Try O'Kari, an affordable and very popular spot ideal for enjoying a traditional Turkish bath experience within the city. With its oriental rituals and relaxing massages, you'll soon forget the cold outside. It is located at 11 rue Saint-Sabin, 75011 Paris, easy to get to by metro or bus.
For a luxurious experience, the Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Paris offers personalised treatments in an elegant and refined setting. A sauna, a Turkish bath, massages and relaxation spaces create a unique escape in the very heart of Paris. You can find it at 251 rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris, near the Louvre and the Tuileries garden.
Practical tips for visitors
How to get around
In winter, it's best to opt for convenient modes of transport.
A Paris sightseeing bus tour lets you explore the city at your own pace from a comfy spot on one of our buses. Tootbus Paris offers specially designed routes that take you past the city's top sights, like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre Dame, the Arc de Triomphe and Montmartre.
The metro, RER and buses are perfect for any extra journeys.
Best times to visit
Mornings often provide a soft light ideal for capturing views of Paris. You can dedicate the afternoon to museums or walks in iconic areas.
In the evenings around Christmas, lights transform the city, especially around the Opéra Garnier, the Champs Élysées and the Seine.
Hacks and services
Remember to book skip-the-line tickets for museums, scout out some cosy cafés for breaks and take a portable charger so you're set for all your photos.
Paris also has a number of cloakrooms, useful when you're combining visitor attractions, walks and indoor activities.
Paris in winter is for exploring at your own pace. With its museums, cultural attractions, viewpoints, walks and cosy cafés, the French capital offers endless activities for everyone.
Need some inspiration for exploring Paris?
Want more ideas for your visit to the French capital? Take a look at the top sights to visit in Paris. Your perfect winter break in Paris awaits!