If you’re lucky enough to be spending some time in Paris this winter, congrats! You’ll get to experience the city in a whole new light (literally – the winter days are shorter here so the city is illuminated by beautiful twinkling lights).
While there are endless things to do in Paris all year round, there are definitely some experiences that are best enjoyed during winter.
Although most people think of Paris as a summertime destination, the city is actually quite lovely in the winter.
From festive Christmas markets to outdoor ice skating rinks, here are some of the best things to do in Paris in the winter. Here are our top 10 recommendations for things to do in Paris during wintertime!
1. Visit the Christmas Markets
Paris is home to some of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. You can find them all over the city, but some of the most popular ones are at Notre Dame, Montmartre, and the Champs Elysees.
There’s nothing like browsing through stalls of holiday gifts while sipping on a cup of hot mulled wine – it’s truly festive!
2. Go Ice Skating
One of the best things to do in Paris in winter is to go ice skating! There are several outdoor rinks set up around the city, including at the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Tuileries Garden.
It’s a great activity for couples or families with kids.
3. See the Eiffel Tower light show
Every hour on hour from sunset to 1 am, the Eiffel Tower puts on a spectacular light show.
It’s definitely one of the most magical things to see in Paris during winter!
4. Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate
Winter is the perfect time to indulge in a rich and creamy cup of hot chocolate. There are several great places to get hot chocolate in Paris, but some of our favorites include Angelina, La Maison du Chocolat, and Jacques Genin.
5. Go on a shopping spree
Paris is one of the best shopping destinations in the world, so it’s no surprise that it makes our list of things to do in Paris in winter. With all of the festive window displays and holiday sales, it’s the perfect time to do some shopping!
6. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral
Notre Dame Cathedral is perhaps the second most famous landmark in Paris, and it just happens to be the most magical during the winter season.
Be sure to go inside to see the stunning stained glass windows and Gothic architecture up close.
7. Take a cruise on the Seine River
One of the best ways to see Paris is from the water, and there are several companies that offer cruises on the Seine River.
It’s especially beautiful at night when you can see all of the city lights twinkling.
8. See a show at the Moulin Rouge
If you’re looking for a fun and unique activity to do in Paris, see a show at the world-famous Moulin Rouge!
The extravagant cabaret show is one of the most popular things to do in the city, and it’s even more festive during the holiday season.
9. Go on a food tour
Paris is known for its incredible food, so it’s no surprise that going on a food tour made our list of things to do in Paris in winter.
There are several different companies that offer food tours, but we recommend La Cuisine Paris for the best experience.
10. Visit Disneyland Paris
No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to this magic world, Disneyland! It’s the perfect place to take the kids (or the kid at heart) for a day of fun.
There are several different rides and attractions, plus plenty of holiday-themed festivities during wintertime.
Whether you’re looking for festive Christmas markets or outdoor ice skating rinks, there are plenty of great things to do in Paris during wintertime.
So don’t let the cold weather dissuade you – Paris is still a wonderful place to visit in the winter!
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