You may have heard that the best time to visit Paris is in the spring or fall but if you’re heading over this winter the city still has so much to offer! The streets are less crowded, giving you the chance to experience Paris like a true local—no long lines at museums, no packed cafés, just a quieter, more intimate side of the city. So, if you’re planning a winter trip, don’t miss out on these 7 Parisian winter experiences:
1. Enjoy a cozy afternoon at a Parisian tea salon
A cold winter day calls for a warm drink, and there’s no better place to enjoy a cozy afternoon than at a Parisian tea salon. Iconic spots like Mariage Frères, Angelina, and Ladurée offer not only world-class tea but also mouth watering pastries. Find a seat by the window, sip on a hot cup of tea, and enjoy the serene ambiance of Parisian elegance.
2. Visit Notre-Dame’s Cathedral & the crypt
It’s open! After five years of restoration, Notre-Dame has re-opened for visitors. Before you go, make sure you read all about the interesting stories I shared in a previous blog here. Don’t forget to stop by the Crypt Archeologique de Paris just nearby, where you can step back in time and discover the ancient Roman village of Lutèce, which once preceded Paris.
3. The Dolce & Gabbana Exhibit
The Dolce & Gabbana Exhibit: If you’re a fashion-lover in Paris this winter, don’t miss the exhibit of the moment. The Dolce & Gabbana Exhibit will be at the Grand Palais between January 10 and March 31, 2025. This exclusive showcase highlights the iconic Italian fashion house’s bold designs, stunning craftsmanship, and luxurious creations. Get your tickets!
4. Learn a new skill, enjoy a workshop
Winter is all about finding new ways to spend your time indoors. If you’re looking for something truly memorable, why not book a workshop? Paris offers a multitude of experiences and I particularly enjoyed making my very own signature perfume at Molinard, one of the oldest French perfume-makers. You’re in Paris but you get momentarily transported to Grasse for the duration of the workshop. If perfume isn’t your thing, there are cooking classes, wine making classes, and more. I use Get Your Guide to find new and unique experiences! (This isn’t sponsored, I just love the app.)
5. Winter Garden Walks
Yes it actually is still possible to enjoy Paris winter gardens even in the winter! The Jardin des Serres d’Auteuil is a botanical garden with Victorian-style greenhouses and plants from all over the world. It’s free and open year-round!
6. Take Advantage of The Sales
Who doesn’t love a little winter shopping? From mid-January to mid-February, Paris comes alive with incredible discounts at boutiques and department stores like Galeries Lafayette, Le Printemps, and La Samaritaine. Whether you’re on the hunt for designer fashion, unique souvenirs, or luxury goods, the winter sales are the perfect opportunity to treat yourself.
7. Escape to a Chateau
For a truly magical winter experience, take a day trip to the Château de Fontainebleau. Located about an hour outside of Paris, this stunning castle is nestled in the Fontainebleau Forest, offering you a peaceful retreat from the city. Explore the beautiful gardens, stroll around the ponds, and marvel at the grandiosity of the château itself. It’s a perfect way to immerse yourself in nature and history. Click here to learn about the history of the castle and plan your visit.
Ready to experience Paris in January? Start planning your winter getaway and immerse yourself in the city with these fun Parisian winter experiences. Don’t forget to share your favorite Parisian moments with me—whether it’s sipping tea in a charming salon or wandering through a winter garden, I’d love to hear about it!
