Winter activities in Paris: our top 10 must-take trips and unusual experiences
As the cold weather creeps in, are you wondering what to do in Paris over winter? Whether you’re a culture buff, gastronomy lover, or prefer the fresh air, the capital has a wide range of entertainment and less common activities for you to enjoy. Read on to discover our ideas for outings to keep you occupied in Paris this winter.
Ice skating in the heart of the capital
Winter sports fan? No need for a ski resort to indulge your passion! At the end of the year, several ice rinks pop up around Paris, where you can rediscover the feeling of skating in the heart of the capital, far from the mountains. The one at the Tuileries Christmas market is a must! The Pailleron ice rink is also open all year round, inside a huge sports complex. A great place to have fun with family or friends.
Visit Paris’ Christmas markets
To fully enjoy the festive season in Paris, make sure to visit the many Christmas markets scattered across the capital. Districts such as La Défense, Montmartre, and Notre Dame each host their own festive villages every year. With beautifully decorated wooden chalets, warm lights, and delicious seasonal treats, this is the perfect winter activity in Paris during the Christmas period. Whether you are looking for an original gift or simply want to stroll around while enjoying a warm waffle, the atmosphere is truly magical.
Unusual shows and concerts
In Paris, winter is the perfect season for cultural discoveries. As the days grow shorter and the city lights up, opportunities to go out multiply: shows, concerts, theatre performances… Treat yourself to an unforgettable evening by attending the revue Féerie, a true showcase of Parisian elegance and festive spirit. The Moulin Rouge show immerses you in an electrifying atmosphere: champagne bubbles, flamboyant feathers, French Cancan… all set in a spectacular venue in the heart of the 18th arrondissement. For a more intimate mood, let yourself be captivated by Candlelight concerts, held in historic venues illuminated by candlelight. With family, head to the Opéra Garnier for a visit or a performance, or discover the Comédie-Française and its unique programme.
Museums and art galleries
Paris is a city rich in cultural venues, and winter is the perfect season to visit a museum. Among the must-sees, the Centre Pompidou and the Fondation Louis Vuitton offer outstanding contemporary art exhibitions. You can also head to the Marais district for a guided tour of some of the city’s most beautiful art galleries.
During the winter holidays, plan a museum or exhibition visit with your children. Why not explore the Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle? Or the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, where you can discover the fascinating “Space Mission” exhibition? The Atelier des Lumières also offers regularly renewed immersive experiences, adapted to different seasons and events such as Christmas. A fun and captivating way to discover the world.
A family cinema trip
Make the most of the holiday season to discover the latest films showing at Parisian cinemas. Book a screening at one of France’s biggest cinemas, such as the Grand Rex or the Gaumont Opéra. For a more offbeat experience, head to the Louxor cinema. This iconic venue in the Barbès district of Paris presents a diverse programme that prioritises independent films.
Relaxation and wellness in the best Spas in Paris
To counter the cold and winter season, there’s nothing like a relaxing spa day, alone, as a couple, or with friends! Hammam, saunas, facials or full body treatments… the possibilities are endless! And, for an unforgettable experience, opt for a more atypical Parisian spa.
The Spa Nuxe in Montorgueil, for example, welcomes you to the heart of Paris in a former 17th-century cellar. Enjoy an enchanted escape in an incredible setting alongside a choice of luxury treatments.
Another amazing experience can be had at Spa Dans le Noir, a unique venue in Paris. All the treatments are performed by blind or visually impaired practitioners, either in the dark or dim lighting. Surrender yourself to the expert hands of the masseuses and masseurs there and experience something truly out of the ordinary.
Another less common Parisian spot is the Spa by Clarins, located inside the Molitor complex, which offers, as well as traditional treatments, those specially designed for athletes. Clients can avail of innovative techniques such as cryotherapy, LPG (endermologie) and chiropractic treatments. And whilst you’re at it, take the opportunity to book an overnight at the Molitor hotel and extend your wellness break.
Cooking or baking classes
How about using the winter season to take a cooking or baking class? Learn to cook with the best Parisian chefs at a quirky culinary workshop. Uncover at long last the basics in French cuisine, Italian or Japanese cuisine! Some establishments also offer parent/child workshops during the Christmas holidays, for some original, food-focussed fun with your family!
Nightlife in the city centre
Paris is a city famous for its vibrant nightlife scene and its many bars and nightclubs. For a wicked winter night out, check out the Machine du Moulin Rouge. This iconic venue in the Montmartre district is one of a kind as well as being one of the biggest clubs in Europe. It’s a must-see stop on the Parisian nightlife trail, with innovative music shows on offer. So enjoy a drink with friends and let yourself be swept away by the music and party atmosphere!
Promenading in Paris
If you are visiting Paris for two days or more, long walks through the capital are one of the best ways to discover the city. In winter, these strolls become even more captivating. The crisp weather invites you to wrap up warm and wander through illuminated streets, while the Seine shimmers under the Christmas lights. Start at the Esplanade des Invalides and take in the historic buildings surrounding this iconic site. Then continue your walk along the Seine riverbanks toward the Île de la Cité, the historic heart of the city.
When night falls, take advantage of the season to explore central Paris, where Christmas decorations light up the avenues and the windows of the department stores. This time of year offers a unique experience, blending art, light, and the festive atmosphere so distinctive to the French capital. For a more intimate escape, head to Paris’s covered passages, hidden gems such as the Passage des Panoramas or the Passage Verdeau, perfect for a sheltered stroll away from the winter cold.
Finally, whether with family or friends, enjoy the city’s parks and gardens for a breath of fresh air. The Parc des Buttes-Chaumont or the Coulée verte René-Dumont offer precious green spaces, even in winter, for an immersion in a urban forest in the heart of Paris.
Fun activities to laugh and enjoy
Opportunities to have fun and laugh in Paris, France’s cultural capital, are plentiful all year round. From comedy shows in lively clubs and karaoke nights with friends to escape games with family, there is no shortage of ideas for things to do. These activities also offer a great way to discover Paris in autumn, when the city is dressed in warm colours and the atmosphere becomes softer and more intimate. Whether you are with family or friends, it is the perfect season to explore the city differently, in a friendly and vibrant setting.
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