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Paris in winter
In winter, Paris is pure magic. Think twinkling lights, cosy cafés, and easy city escapes with Eurostar.
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Make the most of winter in Paris
There are so many reasons to visit Paris in winter – from snapping up a bargain in the winter sales to admiring the Christmas lights and enjoying some decadent chocolat chaud. Make long-lasting memories with your kids by taking them to Disneyland® Paris to see its magic come alive or visit one of Paris's major landmarks like the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre museum.
The window displays at the big department stores Galeries Lafayette and Le Bon Marche are a must-see during Christmas for their animated figures, stunning decorations, and extravagant tree. For more ideas, see below.
Things to do in Paris in winter
Catch a show
The Bouglione Circus' roots go back to the Second Empire, when daredevil Jules Léotard awed audiences with the very first flying trapeze act. This winter's entertainment for the whole family is just as gravity-defying – sure to tickle some funny-bones! Prepare to be amazed with aerial silks, clever horses, outstanding contortionists and more.
Shop in the January sales
The Paris winter sales – les soldes  – always start on the second Wednesday of January and run for six weeks, so there's plenty of time to seek out a bargain. Not sure where to find the best places to shop in Paris? Don't limit yourself to one neighbourhood: the Métro makes hopping between shopping districts a doddle. Superlative department stores Printemps  (opens in a new tab)and Galeries Lafayette (opens in a new tab) are a must-see too, as they vie for attention on Boulevard Haussmann.
Try a galette des rois
This January delicacy is a Parisian tradition worth seeking out. The aim? Find the charm tucked inside the frangipane-filled pastry. The tradition ignites culinary passions every year, with the city's top pâtissiers competing for the tastiest twist on the puff-pastry classic. Look out for Pierre Hermé's couture creations, or Yann Brys's fruit-laced frangipane tart.
Winter walks worth taking
Paris in winter is ideal for exploring outdoors at a slower pace. Start with a walk along the Seine, where you'll pass iconic bridges and enjoy views of Notre-Dame and the Eiffel Tower without the summer crowds. The city's gardens, like the Jardin des Tuileries and Jardin du Luxembourg, offer peaceful paths and elegant statues framed by bare trees – definitely worth a visit.
Montmartre is another must for a winter stroll – its cobbled streets lead to Sacré-Cœur, where you'll find plenty of cafés for a warm drink. For something different, head to the Canal Saint-Martin for a local vibe or wander through the historic Marais district with its charming courtyards and boutiques. Even in the colder months, these walks let you experience Paris's character up close, with fewer tourists and plenty of opportunities to stop for chocolat chaud or a cosy lunch.
Best places to visit in Paris in winter
Winter is the perfect excuse to discover a different side of Paris. Step inside the covered passages of the 2nd arrondissement, where glass-roofed arcades are filled with independent bookshops, cafés, and boutiques. If you're travelling with kids, head to Disneyland® Paris, where seasonal decorations and winter festivities add an extra layer of magic to your trip.
For a dose of greenery, visit the tropical glasshouses of the Jardin des Plantes, a welcome escape on colder days. Or if you're craving a quieter experience, take a day trip to the charming village of Saint-Germain-en-Laye, where historic streets, woodland walks, and sweeping views offer a refreshing break from the bustle of the city.
What to eat in Paris in winter
Paris serves up some of the most comforting dishes you'll ever taste. Think warming servings of steamy French onion soup topped with crisp melted cheese, served with a side of crusty bread. Trust us, it's the ultimate winter warmer. If you're a cheese lover, indulge in raclette or fondue - perfect for sharing (or not!) on a cold evening. Tartiflette, made with potatoes, Reblochon cheese, and bacon, is another indulgent dish that will warm up both body and soul.
And obviously we don't need to mention the croissants, macarons, or eclairs. They're perfectly acceptable any time of year. Check out our Paris foodie guide for more inspiration.
Things to do in Paris in December
Enjoy the Christmas Season in Paris
December in Paris is one of the best times of the year, and it's all about warmth and charm. The streets glow with festive lights, and the air is filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts from the Christmas markets. Dotted across the city, these markets are perfect for browsing handmade gifts, sipping mulled wine, and soaking up the holiday cheer.
Stroll past beautifully decorated shop windows, stop for coffee in a cosy café, or watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle against the winter sky. Wrapped in a warm coat, wandering along the Seine or through Montmartre feels peaceful and magical. It's the perfect time to slow down, enjoy Paris' December events, and soak up the holiday spirit the Parisian way!
Celebrate New Year in Paris
During New Year's Eve in Paris, fireworks aren't always guaranteed, but crowds still head to the Champ de Mars and the Champs-Élysées for impressive light shows and cheery street parties. Blissfully easy to navigate on foot, Paris puts on free transport from 5pm on New Year's Eve to noon the following day. Most restaurants lay on extravagant festive menus for the night.
Warm up in Paris' cosy cafés and restaurants
Parisian cafés
When winter chills the Parisian streets, there's nothing better than stepping into a warm, inviting café. For a more local feel, explore areas like Le Marais, Canal Saint-Martin, or Belleville, where independent coffee spots and cosy hideaways are part of everyday life. And for an iconic experience, enjoy a classic café au lait at Café de Flore, a timeless Parisian institution in Saint-Germain that's perfect for soaking up the city's charm.
Hot Chocolate & pastry spots
Get ready for velvety cups of hot chocolate, perfectly buttery croissants and the flaky pain au chocolat. Angelina is renowned for its indulgent chocolat chaud, which you can enjoy a stone's throw away from the Tuileries Gardens. If you're a fan of baked goods, head to Du Pain et des Idées for its signature escargot pastries swirled with pistachio or chocolate, or Boulangerie Utopie for inventive flavours like black sesame or lime in perfectly baked viennoiseries.
Fireplace dining & hidden gems
Le Coupe-Chou in the Latin Quarter is a historic spot perfect for late-night cosy dinners with stone walls, wooden beams, and a roaring fireplace. Over on the Left Bank, Atelier Maître Albert, created by Michelin-starred chef Guy Savoy, offers rotisserie dishes cooked over open flames in its elegant 'chimney room'. For traditional French cuisine in a velvet-clad dining room warmed by a toasty fire, visit Hôtel Providence. It's chic, tasty and bursting with that French elegance.
Discover Paris indoors this winter
Museums worth a visit
When the temperature drops, Paris' museums are the perfect way to keep exploring without braving the cold. Step inside the Louvre for world-famous masterpieces, warm up among Impressionist icons at the Musée d'Orsay, or slow things down with Monet's Water Lilies at the Musée de l'Orangerie. For something a little quieter, the Musée Rodin pairs elegant sculpture with plenty of Parisian charm.
Seasonal exhibitions and events
Winter brings a fresh wave of exhibitions across the city, from the major retrospectives at the Fondation Louis Vuitton to seasonal photography and paintings shown at the Petit Palais. For a more immersive escape, Atelier des Lumières surrounds you with colour, sound, and digital art. December can be a little busier, especially around the holidays, so book ahead where you can. But with so much culture to uncover, it's still more than worth making time for.
Historic indoor landmarks
Some of Paris's most impressive architecture is best enjoyed indoors. The Opéra Garnier is a masterpiece of 19th-century design, with its marble staircases and painted ceilings. Sainte-Chapelle's stained-glass windows are breathtaking, especially when lit from within on a winter afternoon. At Les Invalides, you can explore French military history and visit Napoleon's tomb under its golden dome.
How to spend two to three days in Paris in winter
Craving a weekend escape? Two to three days in Paris during winter is plenty of time for a memorable city break.
Day one
On day one, tick off the big hitters: start with views of the Eiffel Tower, wander along the Seine, then warm up inside the Louvre or Musée d'Orsay, where you can discover some of the world's most celebrated works of art. As evening falls, see the city sparkle from the Champs-Élysées or Montmartre, taking in the lights and views across the rooftops before settling into a cosy bistro for dinner and a taste of classic French cuisine.
Day two
Day two is all about neighbourhoods and culture. Browse boutiques in Le Marais, stop for coffee in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, then escape the cold by exploring an indoor landmark like Sainte-Chapelle or the Opéra Garnier. If you can stretch your trip to a third day, lean into the season: browse a Christmas market in December, try a galette des rois in January, or plan a slow winter walk through the Tuileries.
Winter weather in Paris
Winter in Paris is generally cold but rarely extreme, making it easy to explore with a warm coat and comfortable shoes. Temperatures typically hover between 3°C and 8°C from December to February, with the occasional frosty morning or the odd rain shower.
The good news? Clear winter days can be some of the most beautiful of the year. You'll find fewer queues at major attractions, more space to linger in museums and cafés, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the city's cosy side. Pack layers, a scarf, and an umbrella, and you'll be ready for whatever the Parisian winter has in store.
Frequently asked questions about winter in Paris
Absolutely. Fewer crowds, festive lights, and cosy cafés make winter a great time to explore Paris. You'll enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere and experience seasonal highlights, from Christmas markets to January sales.
December is all about festive cheer. Browse Christmas markets, admire the sparkling lights along the Champs-Élysées, and enjoy seasonal treats, including roasted chestnuts and chocolat chaud. It's also the perfect time to visit the city's department stores, whose elaborate window displays have become a Parisian tradition.
Paris winters are cool, with temperatures usually ranging between 3°C and 8°C. While there can be occasional rain and chilly mornings, snowfall is uncommon. Wrap up warm, and you'll find winter is one of the most enjoyable seasons for sightseeing.
Definitely! Paris offers a festive atmosphere, dazzling light displays, and plenty of celebratory dinners. From the lively crowds on the Champs-Élysées to cosy bistros serving special menus, there's no shortage of ways to welcome the new year in style.
Start the year slowly with a stroll along the Seine or through the Jardin du Luxembourg before settling into a café for coffee and pastries. Many museums and landmarks are open, making New Year's Day a great opportunity to explore the Louvre, admire Sainte-Chapelle, or simply enjoy a quieter side of the city.
Cheap train tickets from London to Paris
Travelling from London to Paris with Eurostar is simple, smart, and speedy. Go direct from city centre to city centre in just 2 hours 16 mins. And whether you’re going for work or play, we’ll get you there feeling relaxed and rested. Use our lowest fare finder below to grab our cheapest train tickets from London to Paris. Choose Eurostar Standard for our very best fares, or treat yourself to Eurostar Plus for extra space and comfort.
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