Paris in winter is pure magic. The City of Light transforms into a dreamy winter wonderland, offering festive lights, cozy cafés, and fewer tourists. From charming Christmas markets to romantic river cruises, winter in Paris is a season filled with enchantment.

Whether you’re planning a holiday getaway or looking to experience the romantic side of Paris, this guide highlights the 10 most amazing things to do in Paris in winter. Before you pack, check out this winter packing guide to ensure you’re well-prepared for the chilly Parisian weather.

For the latest winter events and special exhibitions at the Louvre, visit the official Paris tourism guide before your trip.

Table of Contents

1. Visit the Christmas Markets 🎄

Paris’ Christmas markets bring the city to life with twinkling lights, artisanal gifts, and delicious holiday treats. The best ones to visit include:

Tuileries Garden Christmas Market – Located near the Louvre, featuring ice skating, Ferris wheel rides, and festive stalls.
La Défense Christmas Market – The largest in Paris, with over 300 wooden chalets selling mulled wine, handmade gifts, and traditional French treats.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés Market – A quaint, traditional market perfect for sipping vin chaud while browsing handcrafted souvenirs.

👉 Pro tip: Visit after sunset to experience the magical glow of the Christmas lights.

2. Explore the Louvre Without the Crowds 🖼️

Winter is the perfect time to visit the Louvre, as there are fewer tourists and shorter lines. You can admire world-famous masterpieces such as:

The Mona Lisa
Venus de Milo
Winged Victory of Samothrace

🔹 Why visit in winter?

Enjoy a quieter, more immersive experience without the summer crowds.
Special winter exhibitions are often available.
A great indoor activity for cold or rainy days.

After soaking in some art, warm up with Paris’ most famous hot chocolate at Angelina Paris or Carette.

3. Ice Skate at Iconic Locations ⛸️

Nothing says winter in Paris like gliding across an ice rink with breathtaking city views. Some of the best places to skate include:

Hôtel de Ville Ice Rink – Set against the majestic Paris City Hall, this rink is a winter favorite.
Eiffel Tower Ice Rink – When available, skate on the first level of the Eiffel Tower for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Grand Palais Ice Rink – One of the largest indoor ice rinks in the world, offering a stunning setting under a glass dome.

👉 Pro tip: Evening skating is extra magical, as the city lights reflect off the ice.

4. Sip on the Best Parisian Hot Chocolate ☕

A winter trip to Paris isn’t complete without indulging in its rich, velvety hot chocolate. The best places to experience this decadent treat include:

Angelina Paris – Famous for its thick, creamy chocolat chaud, made with pure melted chocolate.
Carette – Located near Place des Vosges, known for its cozy ambiance and delicious pastries.
Jean-Paul Hévin – A must-visit for chocolate lovers, offering a sophisticated twist on Parisian hot chocolate.

👉 Pro tip: Pair your hot chocolate with a freshly baked croissant or pain au chocolat for the ultimate Parisian experience.

5. Walk Through the Illuminated Champs-Élysées ✨

The Champs-Élysées is breathtaking in winter, adorned with millions of twinkling lights. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy:

The Arc de Triomphe glowing under the winter sky.
Luxury boutique shopping with beautifully decorated storefronts.
A stop at Place de la Concorde for stunning holiday photos.

👉 Pro tip: The best time to go is just after sunset, when the festive atmosphere is in full swing.

6. Enjoy a Seine River Cruise at Night 🚢

A Seine River cruise in winter is pure romance, offering heated cabins and breathtaking city views. The best cruise options include:

Bateaux Parisiens – A luxurious dining cruise, featuring fine French cuisine and live music.
Vedettes de Paris – A budget-friendly option with cozy, enclosed seating.

👉 Pro tip: Book an evening cruise to see Paris’ landmarks beautifully illuminated, from Notre-Dame to the Eiffel Tower.

7. Explore Montmartre in the Snow ❄️

Montmartre in winter is a picture-perfect scene, with snow-dusted cobblestone streets and charming cafés.

Visit Sacré-Cœur Basilica for breathtaking winter views of Paris.
Stroll through Place du Tertre, where local artists paint romantic winter scenes.
Cozy up in historic cafés like Le Consulat and La Maison Rose.

👉 Pro tip: Arrive early to experience the peaceful, snow-covered streets before the crowds arrive.

8. Experience a Cabaret Show at Moulin Rouge 🎭

Winter is the perfect season to experience the glitz and glamour of a Parisian cabaret. The Moulin Rouge is the most famous, but you can also check out:

Lido de Paris – Known for its elegant performances and gourmet dinner shows.
Crazy Horse – A more artistic, avant-garde take on cabaret.

👉 Pro tip: Book tickets in advance for the best seating options and dinner packages.

9. Wander Through the Covered Passages of Paris 🏛️

Paris’ covered passages are a hidden winter gem, offering charming indoor shopping and historic architecture.

Galerie Vivienne – A beautifully preserved 19th-century arcade with high-end boutiques.
Passage des Panoramas – The oldest covered passage, filled with vintage charm.
Passage Jouffroy – Home to bookstores, antique shops, and cozy cafés.

👉 Pro tip: Perfect for rainy or snowy winter days, when you want to explore while staying warm.

10. Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Paris 🎇

Ring in the New Year in Paris with:

Fireworks at the Eiffel Tower.
Street parties along the Champs-Élysées.
A luxurious dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant.

👉 Pro tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot for the fireworks display.

FAQs About Paris in Winter

Is Paris worth visiting in winter?

Absolutely! Fewer crowds, festive lights, and a cozy ambiance make it a magical time to visit.

How cold does Paris get in winter?

Temperatures range from 3-7°C (37-45°F), with occasional light snowfall.

What should I pack for Paris in winter?

A warm coat, scarf, gloves, waterproof boots, and layered clothing.
A stylish yet cozy outfit for a cabaret or fine dining experience.

Final Thoughts

Paris in winter is a dreamy escape, filled with romance, festive lights, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re sipping rich hot chocolate, strolling through Montmartre, or skating near the Eiffel Tower, this season offers something truly special.

👉 Which winter activity in Paris excites you the most? Let us know in the comments! ❄️

Paris in Winter: 10 Most Amazing Things to Do in Paris