where to visit france in january

Best Places to Visit in France in January

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January in France

Visiting France in January makes for an exciting and enchanting holiday. France provides crisp winters, the snowy Alps, sparkling fairy lights on boutiques, and popular tourist destinations that can often be enjoyed with less pushing, shoving, and wielding of cameras. 

If you are longing for short days and cold winters that means getting cozy in your hotel with a chocolat chaud, France in winter is for you. Some of the most beautiful cities in France also make excellent cultural getaways thanks to excellent museums, art galleries, and local cuisine.

France is a treasure trove for winter fun. From some of the finest European ski resorts to ice climbing near Mont Blanc, France is the place to be for winter sports. But France is not just a cold destination; check out the French Caribbean for winter sun!

In this post, we’ll talk about the best places to visit in France in January and the weather you can expect during this month.

Weather in France in January

Depending on where you visit, the weather in France in January varies drastically. Visit cities like Paris in winter and average temperatures are around 4-5 °C. Find yourself in the French Alps, and you may experience temperatures as cold as -18°C on the slopes but Take a trip to Hyères on the Mediterranean coast, and you can experience moderate January temperatures of 13°C (without mentioning the islands in the Caribbean, where you will be basking in the sunshine!)

If we stick to France’s mainland, January in France is considered to be one of the coldest months. Average daily temperatures in January are around 7°C, with evening temperatures dropping to around 3°C. France averages around 15 days of rainfall, but it also depends on where you are.

Best Places to Visit in January in France

Paris is a year-round destination, but visiting Paris in January offers its own unique perks. Paris’ top tourist attractions like the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower and the Palace of Versailles are less frequented in January. Even some of the city’s free museums, like the Musée Bourdelle and the Musée Cognacq-Jay, are much quieter. 

You could decide to start the New Year in Paris ! But if you are looking for a little post-Christmas treat, many Parisian art galleries and museums have some fascinating exhibits to visit in January .

January is also the perfect time to pick up some bargains in Paris’ retail stores. From around mid-January to the start of February there are fantastic sales in Paris. Head to the high-end Boulevard Haussmann, a 2.5km shopping street, and you’ll find discounts on high-end fashion brands. 

2. Ski in the Alps

The French Alps are one of the best places to visit in France in January, especially for any winter sports lover. Between January and February, the snow conditions are amazing, and skiers and snowboarders will be in an adrenaline-filled winter wonderland. 

Whether you are a beginner just starting out or a seasoned professional, there’s a French Alps ski resort for you . Courchevel is one of the largest resorts in the Alps, with more than 150km of alpine runs. Val d’Isère is another popular destination right on the Italian border.

With incredible scenery, top-class skiing, amazing dining, and many other fun winter activities , the French Alps is one of the best places to go in France in January.

3. Spa Retreat at Vichy, Auvergne

Vichy , in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region , is a lovely place to visit in France in January and is renowned as one of the largest spas in France. Known to the Romans as Vicus Calidus, Vichy acquired fame for its alkaline springs in the 17th century.

In the 19th century, Napoleon III encouraged the building of a new spa town laid out with parks and boulevards, grand bath complexes, a casino and theatre, hotels, and villas. The aristocrats who followed the Emperor to Vichy used to frequent this spa town, making it the most popular destination of its kind.

The town has been set up to give visitors ample opportunity for relaxation and pampering, especially for visitors seeking health benefits from its thermal baths.

Here, you can bathe in the Célestins Spring , which was originally founded by nuns in 1410. It’s believed that these naturally carbonated waters contain a variety of healthy minerals like copper, iron, magnesium, calcium, and lithium.

A spa holiday in Vichy is one of the best things to do in France in January. Even before you arrive you can tailor your trip to your needs. You can choose from a variety of services that focus on a plethora of mental and physical health objectives.

4. Martinique 

If you’re looking to escape winter weather, why not head to Martinique? Martinique is an island in the French Caribbean and is known for its seductive white sandy beaches and crystal blue seas. Whether you choose to relax on one of the Martinique beaches or hike up Mount Pelée, the island’s active volcano, the island is a fantastic destination for a winter getaway.

The island is brimming with landscapes, culture, and things to see and do. Nature lovers will revel in the flora at the Balata Botanical Garden. For epic views of Mount Pelée, head to the coastal town of Saint-Pierre. Saint-Pierre was once known as the Pearl of the West Indies until the destructive1902 eruption of Mount Pelée.

5. Sarlat and its Truffle Festival

Sarlat is one of the most stunning places to visit in Dordogne , with an incredible heritage, charming architecture, and one of the best medieval historic centers in Europe. 

There are many fun things to do in Sarlat, but one of the town’s most popular winter activities is the Fête de la Truffe (Truffle Festival) . This festival happens annually around mid-January and is dedicated to showcasing and celebrating the truffle. You can head to the market, which sells all the best regional truffles and an array of diverse truffle products.

There are also truffle workshops that help truffle enthusiasts identify authentic and top-quality truffles. For the kids, there are truffle-themed cookery workshops. Ever wondered how to search for a truffle? Well, you can learn about that too at their truffle hunting demonstration.

6. Guadeloupe

Where to go in France in January for a sunny beach holiday? Guadeloupe , in the French Antilles, offers visitors the chance to swap their winter vacation for a Caribbean summer atmosphere.

Active travelers will love this as a warm winter destination for its incredible hiking, swimming, and cycling opportunities while Nature lovers will enjoy diving at Jacques Cousteau’s Underwater Reserve, the mangroves, and the island’s fairytale waterfalls.

One of the best ways to explore the main island is by taking a road trip. You can check car rental options in Guadeloupe here .

And there you have it, the best places to visit in France in January and what to do. Which places tempt you most to spend January in France? If you need more suggestions, check out our post on the best places to visit in France in February .

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The Ultimate Guide for Visiting France in Winter

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France undergoes a mesmerising transformation as the temperature drops and frosty landscapes emerge. From the enchanting streets of Paris adorned with twinkling holiday lights to the serene countryside draped in a glistening white coat, visiting France in winter is a truly magical experience.  

Winter in France offers a chance to savour the world-renowned French cuisine in cosy traditional bistros, where hearty dishes like coq au vin and raclette warm the soul. Adventure enthusiasts can revel in the pristine Alpine slopes, while history buffs can explore centuries-old castles without the summer crowds. So pack up your coat and your winter boots for a once-in-a-lifetime, off-season escape.  

Table of Contents

France Weather in Winter

France is a large country, so you can experience a diverse range of winter weather conditions, varying from region to region. In the northern and western regions, including the capital city of Paris in the winter season in France, temperatures are generally cold and damp.

Here, you can expect similar conditions to the UK. Temperatures often hover around 3-7°C (37-45°F), with occasional rainfall and, if you are lucky, the odd patch of snowfall. 

In contrast, the eastern regions, including Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, offer a true alpine winter experience and is the perfect winter destination. This destination is built around winter excursions, so you can expect much colder temperatures with regular snowfall.

Towns and villages high up into the Alps and mountainous parts of France become a true winter wonderland, attracting skiers and snowboarders from around the world with thousands of kilometres of perfectly groomed pistes to explore. If you are looking for the best-guaranteed snow, the higher-elevation towns are more reliable, such as Avoriaz or Tignes. 

The regions around the South of France , such as the French Riviera and Provence , enjoy a much milder winter climate. Daytime temperatures typically range from 10-15°C (50-60°F), making it a more comfortable option for those seeking a reprieve from harsher winter conditions.

The weather along the Mediterranean coast in southern France tends to be fairly stable over the winter months, so head south for the perfect break away from constant downpours. 

Which Month to Visit France in Winter?

France in december.

December can be one of the most magical times of the year to visit this beautiful country. With the summer tourism season well and truly over, the towns and cities in France are brought back to life after a quiet Autumn with the start of the festive season. 

Although France may not have the same prestige as neighbouring Germany when it comes to Christmas markets, there are still plenty to visit and exploring these make for the perfect winter holiday.

These markets, known as “Marchés de Noël,” offer a delightful mix of seasonal treats, handcrafted gifts, and a wonderful atmosphere. Streets are adorned with twinkling lights, and the smell of traditional Christmas market foods and mulled wine wafts through the stalls. 

The opportunity for snow sports is less reliable in December, although some resorts do open towards the middle of the month. If you want to make the most out of the French Alps with skis or a snowboard attached to your feet, January or February is preferable.  

France in January

Taking a trip to France is the perfect way to beat the January blues. Although the festive season has come to a close and the temperature has dropped, visiting France in January offers a quieter, more intimate experience.

If you visit Paris, you can explore iconic museums, stroll along the Seine, and savour cosy moments in quaint cafés, all without dealing with the usual summer crowds.

The French Riviera is heaving with tourists throughout the summer months, but during the winter, you could easily walk along the iconic promenades and see just a handful of locals. It’s one of the best places to visit in France in winter if you want to avoid the masses of visitors. Obviously, it’s not the best destination if you’re looking to lounge on the beach.

Outside of the cities, the smaller towns do have a tendency to ‘shut down’ over January. Many local galleries, artisan boutiques and restaurants will close their doors, but with careful planning, you can still make the most out of a French winter. 

One place that certainly doesn’t close up for the winter is the French Alps and this is the ideal place to visit if you want to spend winter in France. January is a popular month to hit the slopes at one of the bustling resorts such as Morzine, Chamonix or Meribel. 

France in February

Another quiet month, visiting France in February is the perfect way to escape the crowds. There is certainly more of a buzz than in January, with the school holidays and Valentine’s Day, but you’ll find it is mostly locals who are out exploring during this time. 

If you are going on a couples holiday or want a romantic retreat, February is the ideal month to travel. The French celebrate Valentine’s Day (La Saint Valentin) in the same way the British do, so there are plenty of couples activities on offer and cosy restaurants to spend the evening together. 

The French Alps continue to enthral winter sports enthusiasts throughout February with pristine slopes and stunning mountain vistas. The snow in February tends to be very reliable, especially in the higher resorts, but this is a popular time for families to travel because of February half-term, so the slopes can be much busier than in January.

Along with several festivals and carnivals across France, the annual Nice Carnival is held in February, transforming the promenade with dazzling parades, vibrant costumes, and lively festivities. Although you may not be sunbathing on the beach, the French Riviera temperatures fluctuate around 15°C (59°F) in February, feeling positively tropical for visitors from elsewhere in Europe. 

Things to do in France in Winter

Christmas markets.

If you are visiting France in December, there are several iconic Christmas markets across the country worth visiting to experience the festive atmosphere at its best. Spending time at the Christmas markets is one of the best things about a France winter. Many of the larger markets include ice skating rinks and even fairground-style rides. We’ve included our top 3 below. 

Strasbourg – Often referred to as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg’s market is one of the oldest in Europe. Its charming half-timbered houses and Cathedral Square are beautifully adorned with lights and decorations. Market stalls line the streets, selling local wines and artisan crafts.

There are around 12 markets throughout the city, so you really can lose yourself amongst the festivities. If you want to really get into the Christmas spirit, then this is one of the best places to visit in France during winter. You can book a guided tour here.

Colmar – Colmar’s Christmas market is renowned for its picturesque setting and quaint atmosphere. The town’s mediaeval architecture adds to the enchantment, making it look and feel like a fairytale village. There are 6 markets to discover, each with a slight variation on theme. You can book a guided tour here or visit on a guided tour from Strasbourg.

Paris – No list of French Christmas markets would be complete without mentioning Paris. The City of Light hosts several Christmas markets, with the La Magie de Noël market being one of the most famous.

Here, you can enjoy festive treats, drink vin chaud (mulled wine), eat roasted chestnuts, shop for souvenirs, and go ice skating below the iconic Eiffel Tower. Look for the gigantic Ferris wheel for incredible views across Paris at night and several additional carnival-style rides, such as bumper cars. You can book a Christmas tour here. 

French Alps & Pyrenees

Visiting the French Alps in the winter is a dream adventure holiday for outdoor enthusiasts and one of the best places to visit in winter in France for those who love winter sports. This majestic mountain range transforms into a pristine wonderland as snow blankets its peaks, offering a wide array of thrilling experiences.

Skiers and snowboarders from across the world flock to iconic resorts such as Chamonix, Courchevel, and Val d’Isère to carve through fresh powder on some of the most challenging slopes in Europe. 

These serene mountains also cater to those seeking more tranquil pursuits, with opportunities for snowshoeing, ice skating, and picturesque winter hikes.

Winter sports holidays can be on the expensive side, but if you can leave the party town atmosphere of the large resorts behind, some of the smaller villages, such as Les Coches, Vallorcine and Vars, offer a much quieter, more affordable experience. 

The French Alps is not the only hotspot for snowsports in France. The Pyrenees mountain range, bordering Andorra and Spain, is also home to several ski resorts.

Here, accommodation and lift passes are much cheaper, but the snow conditions are still good throughout the winter months, and the blend of Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine makes for some delicious off-piste meals. 

Côte d’Azur 

Exploring the Côte d’Azur in the winter unveils a different, equally enchanting side of this Mediterranean paradise. While the summer crowds have departed, the region’s natural beauty, culture, and mild climate continue to shine.

Nice , with its Promenade des Anglais and charming Old Town, takes on a quieter, more intimate atmosphere.

You can savour the delicious Mediterranean cuisine at local restaurants without the need for reservations and enjoy pleasant strolls along the shoreline. The city of Cannes retains its glamour, and Antibes’ historic charm is as present as ever.

Exploring these hotspots without the need to dodge other tourists feels as if you get to have them all to yourself. The only people you will come across are the locals, and they are usually thrilled to see tourists enjoying the winter sun during the quieter months. 

The region’s mild winter weather may not be sunbathing worthy, but it is plenty warm enough to dine alfresco at cafes and restaurants, discover hikes in the Esterel Mountains or even try a round of golf. 

Festivals and Carnivals

France is not a country to go into hibernation during the winter months. There are plenty of events in the calendar beyond the Christmas markets. From lemons to ice climbing, there is something for everyone. 

Nice Carnival – If you are visiting France in February, the Nice Carnival is one of the most famous in the world and is well worth visiting. It features extravagant parades with enormous floats, costumed performers, and flower battles along the Promenade des Anglais.

It is one of the largest carnivals in Europe and takes place over the course of two weeks, usually in the middle of February. 

Menton Lemon Festival (Fête du Citron) – Taking place in Menton on the French Riviera, this citrus-themed festival also usually occurs in February. The city streets burst into colour with intricate citrus sculptures, parades, and concerts, celebrating the region’s sunny produce.

Even if you are not as passionate about citrus fruits as the residents of Menton, it’s well worth taking your camera along anyway. 

Lyon Festival of Lights – In early December, Lyon illuminates its streets, buildings, and landmarks with spectacular light displays, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere. Everyone gets involved, from the locals lighting up their windows with luminaries to the 80 organised light displays across the city. 

Chamonix Ice Climbing Festival – One for adventure enthusiasts, Chamonix hosts an annual ice climbing festival in January. It’s a thrilling event that combines ice climbing competitions with workshops and exhibitions. 

If you are hoping to visit France’s capital city, don’t write off a winter getaway. Spending the summer in Paris is wonderful – picnics in the park and Seine river cruises – but there is something special about the winter months in this city. 

The city’s iconic landmarks, like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral, twinkle under a gentle blanket of snow or amidst shimmering holiday lights. Quaint cafés beckon with steaming cups of hot chocolate, and patisseries display their seasonal delights.

The city’s museums and galleries are less crowded, allowing for a more intimate appreciation of art and culture without the summer queues.

You can still cruise down the Seine and picnic in the park below the Eiffel tower; just don’t forget to pack your winter coat, gloves and woolly socks! 

The last on our list of things to do in France in winter is the town of Annecy . On the edge of the French Alps, Annecy is the perfect base for travellers who want to experience several sides of France in the winter. Here, you don’t have to decide between city breaks, festivals, Christmas markets or snowsports adventures. Here, you can have it all.

This charming town, often dubbed the “Venice of the Alps” for its picturesque canals and mediaeval architecture, transforms into a fairy tale destination when snow blankets its streets, twinkling lights adorn the mediaeval buildings, and the pristine frozen Lake Annecy glistens under the winter sun.  

Stroll through the rabbit warren of cobbled streets during December to discover the sprawling Christmas market.

Spend New Year’s Eve in style, gathered around the illuminated canals and squares to welcome the new year with fireworks, music, and a joyous atmosphere. Or visit in February to experience the Venetian Carnival, where hundreds of masks in mysterious colourful costumes roam the streets.

For those seeking outdoor adventure, the nearby ski resorts of La Clusaz and Le Grand Bornand are easily accessible from Annecy.

These resorts boast excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities against the stunning backdrop of the French Alps. Additionally, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular activities in the surrounding mountains and forests.

From the twinkle of the city lights to the sparkle of the crunchy frost underfoot, winter in France is a truly magical time to visit this varied country. From city breaks to adventure excursions and everything in between, there are endless things to do in France in winter – just don’t forget to pack a couple of extra layers!

Are you planning to visit France in the wintertime? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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About Neota Langley

Neota is a writer for The World Was Here First. Born and bred in Cornwall, she can usually be found with hiking boots on, ready to embark on an adventure. For the last 6 years, she has travelled throughout Europe in her self-built campervan with her trusty canine companion, Ivy. She loves exploring France, the Nordics and spending time in Alpine destinations.

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France in winter: 25 places to visit and guide for 2023/24

Are you planning a trip to France in winter? 

From shimmering snow-covered mountains to frost-dusted cityscapes, winter in France transforms the country into a magical wonderland that’s brimming with adventure, culture, and yes, a lot of good food.

I grew up just over the Channel in Kent, and went on countless winter trips to France in my childhood – I’ve also been on a fair few as an adult. 

So, what are the best places to visit in France in winter, what are the top winter activities, and how do you prepare for such a trip? 

I’ve put all of my best tips on winter travel in France into this blog post.

So get ready to say “ Bonjour !” to France in wintertime!

Table of Contents

What’s France in winter like? 

Winter in France is a time when the vibrant greens of the mountains surrender to the mesmerizing white snow and cityscapes alter their appearance, donned in twinkling fairy lights and resplendent decorations.

Paris , the city of lights, shines brighter than ever.

Its iconic landmarks, like the Eiffel Towe r and Notre Dame , are enhanced by frost and glimmer in the low-lying sun.

Venturing beyond the cities, the rural landscapes are equally breathtaking.

Snow-laden fields and frosted trees create picturesque scenes worthy of a postcard.

The French Alps and the Pyrenees , with snow-capped peaks and pristine ski slopes, become a playground for winter sports enthusiasts.

Winter also brings one of France’s most cherished traditions – the Christmas markets ( Marché de Noël in French)

Towns and cities across the country, particularly in the Alsace region , host these festive markets, with their quaint stalls offering everything from handmade crafts and decorations to culinary delights like mulled wine, gingerbread, and roasted chestnuts. 

And winter cuisine in France takes a hearty turn.

Tables are laden with comforting French dishes like cassoulet , tartiflette , and raclette – dishes designed to warm the soul on frosty winter days!

Bakeries overflow with seasonal pastries and chocolates , their sweet aromas mingling with the crisp winter air.

Cultural events are aplenty, too.

From Nice’s lively Carnival to Lyon’s awe-inspiring Fête des Lumières , the season is full of celebrations, showcasing the richness of French traditions and the joie de vivre of its people.

Weather in France in Winter

French winters can be cold, but they’re also filled with crisp, clear days that are perfect for exploring.

In the north , temperatures range from 0°C to 7°C (32°F to 45°F), while the south enjoys a slightly warmer 7°C to 13°C (45°F to 55°F).

Mountainous regions such as the Alps and the Pyrenees are much colder with heavy snowfall, perfect for any ski and snowboard aficionados.

To give you a very rough idea, here are the average temperatures for different regions in January, the coldest month in France.

Best places to visit in France in winter

So, you’ve decided on France for your European winter vacation.

Excellent! Now, where exactly do you go? 

France is the biggest country in Western Europe and there are countless tourist attractions and beautiful cities to explore in the winter months. 

I’ve whittled it down to just 25 of my top places!

We had to start somewhere – so why not in the French capital city?

Affectionately known as the City of Love, Paris undergoes a striking transformation in the winter.

Streets once filled with autumn leaves turn into frosty paths, illuminated under the soft glow of thousands of lights.

Christmas markets , a cornerstone of the French holiday season, spring to life in almost every quarter.

From Saint-Germain-des-Prés to La Défense , each market is a treasure trove of holiday delicacies, warm mulled wine, and artisanal gifts crafted with care.

An evening visit to the Eiffel Tower , Paris’s signature landmark, is a must during winter.

The cold, clear nights bring a unique clarity to the view, while the structure’s hourly sparkle against the winter sky is an unforgettable sight.

The Champs-Élysées , known for its grandeur, transforms into a magical sight during winter.

As the festive season approaches, the famed avenue adorns itself with glittering lights and holiday decorations.

After, visit Galeries Lafayette .

The store’s annual holiday window displays are a feast for the eyes, delighting children and adults alike.

If you’re visiting Paris in January or February, the capital offers a warm refuge in its world-renowned museums and cosy Parisian cafés.

A perfect day could begin with a warm croissant and chocolat chaud at a local café, followed by a dive into culture and history at the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay .

And what better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than in the city of love itself? 

Paris in any month is a delight! 

2. Strasbourg

If you’re in France in December, you have to visit the self-proclaimed capital of Christmas! 

Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik is one of the oldest and largest in Europe.

This bustling hub hosts more than 300 wooden chalets and draws visitors from far and wide with its assortment of traditional crafts and seasonal delicacies.

No visit to Strasbourg would be complete without marvelling at the monumental Christmas tree standing guard beside the striking Notre Dame Cathedral (which is also well worth admiring).

This towering spectacle illuminates the square, creating a dazzling contrast against the Gothic architectural masterpiece.

Just a short walk away, the Petite France district offers a historical panorama of half-timbered houses, their festive decorations mirrored in the city’s icy canals. 

Strasbourg’s rich culinary tradition also comes alive in winter.

At traditional Winstub lounges , try regional specialties such as baeckeoffe , a hearty Alsatian stew, and flammekueche , a unique take on pizza layered with cream, onions, and lardons. Pair these dishes with a glass of warm, spiced wine!

There’s no doubt about it, the city of Strasbourg has to be on your France winter itinerary. I visited when I was in Basel, Switzerland in winter (it’s close to the French and German borders) and I’m already working out when I can return!

3. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

As winter falls over Chamonix, at the foot of the imposing Mont Blanc – the highest peak in Western Europe – the town morphs into a playground for snow lovers.

Its reputation as one of France’s oldest ski resorts is well-earned – I used to go skiing here myself every winter.

One experience that stands above all else is a ride on the Aiguille du Midi cable car . 

It scales Europe’s highest mountain peaks, providing an unforgettable panorama of the French, Swiss, and Italian Alps. 

If you’re skiing down, it’s part of the Vallée Blanche . 

Another must-see is the Mer de Glace . France’s largest glacier paints an incredible picture of nature’s raw power.

The famously bright red Montenvers train will take you there.

For an alternative to the slopes, pay a visit to the Musée Alpin .

This museum houses an extensive collection chronicling the development of Chamonix from a remote mountainous area to one of the world’s most popular winter sports destinations.

After an action-packed day on the slopes, Chamonix town offers a warm welcome.

Many bustling bistros serve vin chaud , a hot, spiced wine that is a favourite winter warmer.

Don’t leave without trying the hearty Savoyard cuisine , a culinary tradition rich in cheese and potatoes.

And once the sun has set, Chamonix doesn’t go to sleep!

Instead, the après-ski scene comes alive and carries on until the early hours.

Lyon’s reputation for culinary excellence is elevated by traditional bouchons Lyonnais , cosy bistros that exude warmth.

On a chilly winter’s day, the allure of classic dishes like coq au vin, a hearty chicken stewed in red wine, or saucisson chaud, a hot, hearty sausage, is hard to resist.

Complement your meal with a glass of local Beaujolais wine.

December holds a special place in Lyon’s calendar, marking the annual Fête des Lumières .

This tradition, rooted in 1852, transforms Lyon a work of art.

Local artists use the city as their canvas, casting imaginative light installations upon buildings, streets, and parks.

The result is an enchanting nocturnal landscape that pulls in admirers from around the world.

A journey through Lyon wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Vieux Lyon , the city’s historic heart.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site , this district boasts well-preserved Renaissance architecture, imbued with a unique character that deepens under winter’s touch.

While exploring Vieux Lyon, visit the Musée Miniature et Cinéma , a fascinating museum housing miniature scenes and film props, perfect for a cold winter day.

Also, consider a stop at the Lyon Cathedral , a marvel of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, with a magnificent astronomical clock that dates back to the 14th century.

Also, don’t miss Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse .

Named after Lyon’s most famous chef, this indoor food market is a paradise for food lovers, showcasing the best of the region’s products, including cheeses, meats, and pastries.

The vibrant city of Lille is known for its annual Christmas market , an assemblage of over 80 chalets that brighten the atmosphere with their selection of local crafts, seasonal indulgences, and warming vin chaud .

I used to visit here on school trips each year!

The market sits in Place Rihour , where a 50-meter-high Ferris wheel stands tall.

Step aboard and be rewarded with a stunning, panoramic view of the city’s festive lights.

Architectural diversity is a standout feature of Lille, where Flemish, French, and modern styles intertwine.

Make sure to stroll through Vieux Lille , the city’s historic quarter and visit Notre Dame de la Treille . This cathedral, with its modern facade and neo-Gothic interior, provides a perfect example of Lille’s blend of traditional and contemporary styles.

There’s also the Palais des Beaux-Arts .

This is France’s largest museum outside of Paris and offers an extensive collection of fine arts, antiquities, and a fascinating medieval and Renaissance collection.

Finally, round off your day with a meal at Le Bloempot .

This restaurant in Vieux Lille features a menu that changes with the season and showcases the best of Flemish and French cuisine. 

6. Mont Saint Michel

Mont Saint Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , stands as a testament to architectural ingenuity.

Winter graces this iconic landmark with a unique charm. With the onset of the colder months, the bustling crowds thin out, making way for a more relaxed exploration of this rocky islet.

The heart of Mont Saint Michel, an ancient abbey, is a sight to behold.

In the gentle winter light, its gothic spires, robust walls, and intricate flying buttresses assume an otherworldly aura.

Walking through the snaking, narrow streets that envelop this abbey becomes a journey into a timeless world.

There’s even a chance that you might see Mont Saint Michel with a soft blanket of snow.

The marvel of Mont Saint Michel isn’t limited to the rock and its abbey.

The surrounding landscape, with its ever-changing tides and ethereal winter mists, adds a dramatic flair to the scene.

The bay, known for having some of the highest tides in Europe , is also home to an array of wildlife, especially birds – so don’t forget to pack your binoculars!

A visit to La Mère Poulard , a legendary inn and restaurant established in 1888, should be included in your itinerary.

Famous for its towering, fluffy omelettes, this establishment has been serving visitors for over a century and continues to be a beloved part of the Mont Saint Michel experience!

Nice doesn’t surrender to winter’s chill.

Instead, it welcomes the season with a Mediterranean warmth that remains a constant throughout the year.

Its famed Promenade des Anglais , adorned with towering palms, is as inviting as ever. 

Although, while there’s fairly warm weather (on a particularly mild day you could call it a winter sun destination !), you probably won’t be sunbathing or swimming. 

In February, the city sheds its calm facade to host the Nice Carnival , among the world’s largest.

The city transforms into an exuberant party, brimming with parades, riveting flower battles, and a riot of vibrant costumes.

During this time, visit the Cours Saleya market .

Even in winter, it’s a bustling hive of activity. Here, you’ll find an abundance of fresh produce, a riot of colourful flowers, and an assortment of local crafts.

The market is the perfect place to soak in the local culture and pick up a memento or two of your winter holiday in Nice.

A stone’s throw from the market is Nice’s Old Town, or Vieux Nice . This historic quarter boasts narrow, winding lanes and russet-roofed buildings, with warm, inviting bistros a stark contrast to the crisp winter air outside.

While here, indulge in the flavours of Nice .

Socca, a chickpea pancake, or a robust ratatouille offer a tantalising introduction to Niçoise cuisine.

For those interested in art, a visit to the Musée Matisse , located in the Cimiez neighbourhood, should be on your agenda – as the name suggests, this museum houses a vast collection of works by Henri Matisse and is located in a 17th-century Genoese villa set amidst an olive grove – how very scenic!

Annecy , known as the “ Venice of the Alps ,” is home to a network of canals that crisscross the town, framed by pastel-hued houses and set against the grandeur of snow-blanketed Alps.

It looks like it belongs on a holiday card!

The Old Town , with its cobblestone lanes and vibrant markets, beckons you to immerse yourself in its charm.

Winter ushers in a transformation of Lake Annecy , thought to be as Europe’s cleanest lake.

Bonlieu is home to Europe’s largest open-air ice rink; here, you can twirl and glide with the panoramic vista of snow-dusted mountains as your backdrop.

Also, don’t miss the historic Palais de l’Isle . This 12th-century castle was built as a fortress to defend the town. 

And if you’re a food enthusiast, make a beeline for the restaurant La Ciboulette .

This Michelin-starred restaurant serves up exquisite renditions of traditional French cuisine.

Opt for a dish with local Reblochon cheese for a truly Savoyard experience!

Reims, often called the capital of the Champagne region , also sparkles in the winter months!

The city, situated in the heart of wine country, is home to prestigious Champagne houses , including Taittinger and Veuve Clicquot .

These establishments welcome visitors with guided tours and tastings that invite you to uncover the secrets of this world-renowned sparkling wine. 

To fully embrace the region, raise a glass and toast to the holiday season in the very birthplace of champagne.

Here’s an insider’s tip – =book a champagne pairing dinner at a local restaurant, such as Le Millénaire, to really understand and savour the complexities of this celebratory drink.

While the champagne is certainly the star of the show, Reims has more to offer.

The Reims Cathedral , a pinnacle of Gothic architecture where French kings were once crowned, stands proud and majestic.

Just a stone’s throw from the cathedral, the annual Christmas market takes place.

Here, vendors fill their stalls with a medley of crafts, regional delicacies, and naturally, bottles of local champagne! 

10. The Loire Valley

The Loire Valley, referred to as the “Garden of France,” is a timelessly romantic French winter destination! 

As winter cloaks the region, the stunning châteaux and expansive vineyards transform into a quiet, ethereal landscape.

The elegant Château de Chenonceau , arching gracefully over the Cher River, and the awe-inspiring Château de Chambord , known for its distinctive French Renaissance architecture, are among the best castles to visit in the region.

During the holiday season, many of these châteaux take on an even more magical atmosphere, hosting Christmas events that showcase traditional decorations, festive markets, and often, a hearty dose of French holiday cheer.

For wine aficionados, the Loire Valley is a veritable haven.

While winter may seem like a dormant period, it’s actually an excellent time to explore the region’s vineyards.

These vineyards, lying low in the cool season, are responsible for some of France’s most lauded wines – and the quieter season is the best time to explore!

11. Eguisheim

The quaint village of Eguisheim , in the heart of Alsace’s celebrated wine region, is renowned for its charm, often securing its spot among the most picturesque villages in France.

The village’s unique, concentric cobblestone streets become even more enchanting in the winter months.

Half-timbered houses, awash in a riot of colors, stand side by side, their facades adorned with twinkling fairy lights and festive decorations.

A highlight of Eguisheim in winter is its annual Christmas market , making December the perfect time to visit. 

Here, you can browse an array of stalls selling traditional Alsatian Christmas ornaments. 

Foodies will find plenty to savour here – vendors offer a selection of regional delicacies.

Try a freshly baked bretzel , a type of soft pretzel, or indulge in some pain d’épices , a richly spiced local gingerbread and holiday staple! 

Of course, no visit to Eguisheim would be complete without a taste of the region’s celebrated wines.

Alsace is particularly famous for its aromatic white wines, such as Riesling and Gewürztraminer . In the chill of winter, you might want to sample a glass of Vin Chaud , a warm mulled wine made with local vintages.

For a panoramic view, climb up to the castle ruins of Château du Hohlandsbourg .

Located just outside Eguisheim, it offers an unrivalled view over the snow-capped roofs of the village and the vineyards beyond.

12. Les Arcs

In the heart of the Tarentaise Valley, Les Arcs is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts.

The ski resort offers a myriad of runs that cater to a range of skill levels, from snow sports novices to seasoned pros.

The expansive, interconnected ski domain it shares with La Plagne, known as Paradiski , is one of the largest in the world.

Off-piste enthusiasts can carve their way through fresh powder, while the varied blue and red runs are perfect for intermediate downhill skiing.

The resort also boasts well-equipped areas for beginners.

Don’t fancy skiing? Les Arcs offers an array of alternative outdoor activities in winter. 

Experience the thrill of dog sledding as you glide through snow-laden forests, or strap on a pair of snowshoes and take a walk!

For those seeking an extra dose of adrenaline, there’s the opportunity to try ice climbing or hurtle down Europe’s longest toboggan run.

Once you’ve had your fill of winter sports, take a break in one of the many mountain restaurants dotted around the slopes, where you can savor hearty Savoyard fare like fondue and raclette .

Après-ski culture is strong here too!

The Alsatian town of Colmar , close to the German border, fully embraces the winter season. 

As temperatures drop, the vibrant old town transforms.

The town’s canal system, known as Little Venice , weaves around cobblestone streets and timber houses. 

As Christmas approaches, Colmar unveils one of France’s – and Europe’s – most renowned Christmas markets.

This festive extravaganza spans six different locations within the town, each brimming with a myriad of stalls.

These markets offer the perfect opportunity to sample local delights. Sink your teeth into a flammekueche , an Alsatian pizza with a thin, crispy base and a creamy topping, or warm up with a glass of mulled white wine.

I visited Colmar last November – the weekend when the festive markets opened – and loved the atmosphere. 

Are you an art fan?

A winter visit to Colmar would be incomplete without exploring the Unterlinden Museum .

This former convent turned cultural hotspot houses a vast collection of art, with its star attraction being the Isenheim Altarpiece, a masterful piece of German Renaissance art.

If you’re visiting outside of the festive season, Colmar’s streets are quiet, yet its beauty is ever-present. 

14. Biarritz

Biarritz, a swanky seaside town in the French Basque country, is famous for its extensive sandy beaches and formidable surf.

In fact, it’s a hub for water sports enthusiasts even during the colder months.

If surfing in winter isn’t for you (it should be attempted by pros only!) a brisk walk along the renowned Grande Plage , looking at the rough waves and the hardy surfers, is a refreshing alternative.

Post-stroll, warm up with a cup of hot chocolate in one of the inviting beachside cafés.

Visit the Rocher de la Vierge , a famous local landmark topped with a statue of Virgin Mary. 

This rocky outcrop, accessible by an iron bridge, boasts sweeping views of Biarritz and the powerful Atlantic Ocean. It’s a particularly mesmerizing spot during the winter months when the ocean is at its wildest!

Winter is also an ideal time to appreciate Biarritz’s relaxed vibe , with fewer tourists around.

Enjoy exploring the town at your own pace – browse through the city’s fashionable boutiques and discover the striking Art Deco architecture. 

You could even try some fresh catch at one of the town’s best seafood restaurants. 

Don’t miss a visit to the Biarritz Lighthouse .

The panoramic view of the town, with its twinkling winter lights and the ocean’s expanse, is well worth the climb up the 248 steps.

15. Bordeaux

Bordeaux, a city celebrated for its exceptional wines, is wonderful in winter. 

Venture into the city’s historic vineyards and renowned wine châteaux, where you can partake in tours and tastings . Winter does not impede the flow of fine Bordeaux wine – it’s a year-round experience! 

Aspiring wine connoisseurs can also expand their knowledge by taking a course at the Bordeaux Wine School .

The city’s passion for wine is contagious, and these classes offer a deep dive into the art of wine tasting and the complexities of Bordeaux’s wine production.

In the heart of the city, the Bordeaux Christmas market is ever-popular during the holiday season.

Place de la Bourse, one of the city’s most significant squares, is also wonderful during winter.

Another top attraction is the Cité du Vin , a contemporary building resembling a coiled vine, rising from the banks of the Garonne River.

This unique museum offers an immersive and interactive journey through the history and culture of wine.

Winter embraces Rouen, as the medieval old town, punctuated by half-timbered houses and paved with cobblestones, is frosted in a delicate layer of ice – and potentially snow.

Standing tall amidst this vintage scenery is Rouen Cathedral . The Gothic cathedral, a muse that spurred Monet’s creativity, casts a majestic silhouette against the winter sky.

While wandering the medieval town, don’t miss the Gros Horloge, a 14th-century astronomical clock that still works today. 

And check out the Place du Vieux-Marché , the site of Joan of Arc’s martyrdom.

Today, it’s a bustling square where market vendors rub shoulders with cafés.

In winter, these spots offer a respite from the chill, serving steaming cups of coffee and hearty Norman cuisine.

In the northeastern reaches of France lies the wonderful city of Metz.

Metz’s defining feature, its imposing Cathedra l, rules the skyline.

With 6,496 square meters of stained glass , the cathedral is a blaze of colour even on the greyest of winter days.

As you navigate the city’s charismatic streets, you’ll encounter an array of styles – from medieval fortifications and German Imperial structures to contemporary French designs.

Each corner turned unveils a new narrative of the city’s diverse cultural heritage.

Metz lays claim to France’s largest Christmas market , a winter event that brings the city to life with a unique blend of holiday traditions.

Over 130 chalets materialize across the city’s plazas, their wooden structures brimming with handcrafted gifts and regional gastronomy.

Particular highlights are the ice rink and the city’s festive Ferris wheel .

As it ascends, it affords an unparalleled view of Metz’s cityscape , bathed in the soft glow of Christmas lights.

18. Grenoble

Situated majestically at the foot of snow-capped mountains, Grenoble is frequently referred to as the “ Capital of the Alps “.

This moniker is well deserved, as Grenoble boasts a strategic location that offers an immediate springboard to some of the most prestigious ski resorts in the French Alps.

The promise of carving through fresh powder draws many to this city when the snow starts to fall.

Yet, the allure of Grenoble extends beyond the thrill of winter sports.

The city itself teems with cultural and historical treasures, including the Bastille , an intricate network of ancient fortifications that tell tales of the city’s past.

The Museum of Grenoble showcases an impressive assembly of art representing diverse periods and styles.

Once you’ve finished, take the time to meander through Grenoble’s streets , where buildings narrate the city’s evolution through their architectural styles.

Most famous for its fiery mustard, Dijon also boasts immense architectural beauty, with an impressive collection of pristine medieval and Renaissance structures.

Embark on a journey through time as you follow the footsteps of the Owl’s Trail .

This pathway escorts you past an array of the city’s most emblematic historic sites.

Among these is the imposing Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy . Elsewhere, clusters of charming half-timbered houses reveal stories.

The lure of Dijon extends beyond the city’s boundaries.

Located in the surrounding countryside are the legendary vineyards of Burgundy, the birthplace of some of the most esteemed wines on the planet.

Visit the vineyards, meet local producers, uncover the secrets of the wine-making process, and indulge in a wine-tasting session, the vintages even more enjoyable in the crisp winter air. 

Oh, and try some beef bourguignon – it hails from the area! 

20. Val d’Isere

Perched in the Tarentaise Valley, Val d’Isere is a popular Alpine town.

It’s revered on the global stage for its exceptional skiing credentials, offering a reliable abundance of snowfall that transforms the landscape into a white canvas for winter sports.

Val d’Isere’s expansive ski terrain invites enthusiasts of all levels.

Whether you’re a tentative beginner making your first foray onto the slopes or a seasoned expert ready to carve a path down challenging runs, the resort caters to a spectrum of abilities.

Connected to the Espace Killy ski area , the resort unlocks over 300 kilometers of diverse ski runs.

As your day of winter sports draws to a close, descend into the heart of the resort, where a traditional alpine village awaits.

The sight of cosy chalets, roofs laden with snow, greets you at every corner, while high-end boutiques offer a selection of luxury retail therapy.

A medley of international and French restaurants cater to hungry skiers. 

And when the night descends on Val d’Isere, the vibrant après-ski scene erupts into life!

21. Aix-en-Provence

Heading to the sun-dappled South of France, Aix-en-Provence ushers in the winter months subtly, retaining its mild climate. 

Winter’s a quiet time to visit Aix-en-Provence; meaning you can enjoy the wonderful architecture in peace! 

Saunter down Cours Mirabeau , one of the city’s main thoroughfares, and enjoy fountains and cafés spilling their warmth onto the sidewalks, the tantalizing aroma of fresh coffee hanging in the air.

There’s a weekly market t hroughout the winter, where stall owners showcase their regional produce, unique antiques, and finely crafted wares.

In the heart of the city lies the Saint-Sauveur Cathedral , an emblem of the city’s rich religious heritage.

Its intricate architecture is a visual narrative that spans from the 5th to the 17th centuries , making it a feast for the eyes and a journey through time.

A different kind of artistic legacy awaits at Atelier Cézanne , a testament to the creative genius of Paul Cézanne.

This is where the master spent his days immersed in painting, shaping the masterpieces that would cement his name in art history.

Fancy chilling out? Thermes Sextius is a popular spa, established upon the city’s ancient Roman hot springs. 

22. Toulouse

Toulouse , or the ‘Pink City’ as it’s fondly called, owes its distinctive nickname to the red brick facades that bathe the city in warm hues.

When winter descends, the city takes on an even more enthralling appearance.

Majestically dotting the city’s skyline, Toulouse’s churches combine architectural beauty and historical resonance.

The Basilique Saint-Sernin ‘s bell tower is an iconic symbol of the city.

The Jacobins Convent , with its beautiful cloister and remarkable ‘palm tree’ vault, offers an oasis of tranquillity.

The heart of Toulouse is the Place du Capitole , a grand square that bursts into a flurry of activity during the festive season.

A traditional Christmas market takes residence here, its twinkling lights reflected on the cobblestones.

Stroll among the stalls, each one a treasure trove of unique gifts and regional specialities.

Savour the sweetness of candied fruits, the crunch of roasted chestnuts and the spiciness of gingerbread.

23. Riquewihr

In the heart of Alsace, along the famed Wine Route, lies Riquewihr , a medieval town that looks like it’s jumped straight out of a storybook.

This enchanting settlement, framed by undulating vineyards and fortified walls , is beloved for its timeless charm.

At the heart of the village, Rue du Général de Gaulle pulses with life and activity.

You can step into Riquewihr’s past by visiting the 16th-century Maison de Vigneron (winemaker’s house) which showcases winemaking tools, the Dolder Belfry with the Musée du Dolder’s ancient weapons, and the Tour des Voleurs which has chilling torture instruments!

Every year, the anticipation of the festive season is marked by the arrival of the Christmas market . This annual celebration may be small in scale, but it’s brimming with charm.

Under the twinkle of holiday lights, wooden chalets showcase an array of handcrafted goods that make perfect gifts or keepsakes.

Here, too, the region’s viticultural heritage shines, with the opportunity to sample the renowned Alsatian wine!

24. Chartres

Just one hour from Paris, Chartres is famous for the Cathedral of Notre Dame of Chartres .

This architectural tour de force towers over the town, its stone spires reaching for the crisp winter sky.

Often bathed in the soft glow of winter’s low-lying sun, the cathedral’s façade presents a harmonious blend of Romanesque solidity and Gothic grandeur.

Step inside, and you’ll be awed by the exquisite array of stained glass windows, their colors dancing in the soft light, painting tales of biblical narratives and bygone eras.

As winter deepens, the town embraces the festive spirit , illuminating the nights with thousands of twinkling lights.

These lights bedeck the town’s buildings and streets, casting a soft glow on the cobblestones and historic architecture, and transforming Chartres into a mesmerizing spectacle of light and shadow.

Venture into the charming old town, and you’ll be welcomed by a labyrinth of narrow streets , lined with well-preserved medieval and Renaissance buildings.

25. Avignon

In the heart of Provence, the historic city of Avignon still seems a monument to a bygone era when it served as the center of Christendom in the 14th century.

Dominating the city skyline is the Palais des Papes , an awe-inspiring testament to Avignon’s past as the seat of the Catholic Papacy.

This fortress-like palace, replete with towering turrets and formidable stone walls, stands as a stark reminder of the ecclesiastical power that once resided within.

During the winter months, you can meander through its expansive rooms, chapels, and courtyards at leisure.

Nearby, the remnants of the Saint-Bénézet Bridge , more commonly known as the Pont d’Avignon, arch gracefully over the Rhône River.

Avignon’s enchanting old town is a labyrinth of cobbled streets and charming squares.

Under the cool winter sky, these streets assume a quiet charm as the golden stone buildings glow warmly against the crisp air.

Modern Avignon’s a dynamic city with a vibrant arts scene and even during winter, you can experience this creative spirit in the city’s numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters.

Finally, a visit to Avignon would be incomplete without sampling the local Provencal dishes .

Warm up in a local bistro with a comforting bowl of daube provencal, a rich beef stew, or try the local winter delicacy, black truffle, known as ‘black diamonds’.

What to pack for France in winter

Pack for comfort and style!

First, remember the essentials: a warm, waterproof coa t, layers for variable temperatures, a chic scarf (you’re in France after all!), comfortable walking shoes , and a sturdy umbrella .

Cold weather accessories like gloves and a woolly hat are a must, as they will provide much-needed warmth during those chilly winter days and nights.

Additionally, don’t forget to pack some warm socks – not only will they keep your feet toasty, but they can also add an extra layer of cushioning during long days of exploration.

Considering the dry winter air, it’s a good idea to pack skincare essentials like a rich moisturizer, lip balm, and hydrating face masks to prevent your skin from drying out. A travel-sized hand cream can also come in handy when you’re out and about.

If your itinerary includes a trip to the French Alps or other ski areas, you’ll need to pack appropriate ski gear, including ski pants, goggles, and thermal wear. However, if you prefer not to carry these bulky items, most ski resorts offer equipment for rent.

Don’t forget the chargers and consider bringing a portable power bank for on-the-go charging.

Also, if you plan on using your phone outdoors extensively, a touchscreen-friendly pair of gloves could be very useful.

Lastly, although France is known for its fashion, remember that comfort should be your priority, particularly in winter!

While a pair of stylish boots might be tempting, opt for footwear that’s warm, comfortable, and water-resistant.

Considerations for visiting France in Winter

• Weather Conditions: France’s winter weather can vary greatly depending on the region. Northern France, including Paris, can experience cold, rainy winters with occasional snow. The French Alps and other mountainous regions are known for heavy snowfall, ideal for winter sports enthusiasts but demanding extra precautions for travel safety. Southern France generally enjoys milder winters but can still be quite chilly. Always check the local forecast and plan your activities accordingly.
• Packing Appropriately: As already discussed, packing for winter in France requires thoughtful preparation. Warm, waterproof clothing, comfortable footwear, and skin care products to combat the dry winter air are just some of the essentials.
• Daylight Hours: Winter days in France are much shorter. Sunset can occur as early as 5 p.m., which may impact your sightseeing plans. Try to start your day early to make the most of the daylight.
• Holiday Season: December in France is a festive season marked by Christmas markets, special events, and holiday decor. This can be a wonderful time to visit but also a busy one, particularly in popular cities like Paris and Strasbourg.
• Transportation: Winter weather can affect travel plans, particularly in regions prone to snow. Trains and flights might face delays or cancellations. When planning day trips or moving between cities, it’s essential to factor in potential weather-related disruptions. If you’re travelling during peak times, I’d recommend booking your train tickets in advance (Trainline works in France). 
• Winter Sports: If your plans involve winter sports like skiing or snowboarding, remember that safety should be a priority. Ensure you have the appropriate gear and insurance coverage, and always adhere to the safety guidelines provided by your chosen resort.
• Off-Season Benefits: One of the great benefits of visiting France in winter is the lack of crowds at major tourist sites. However, keep in mind that some attractions may have shorter winter opening hours or be closed for maintenance. Always check opening times in advance.
• Indoor Activities: While France’s outdoor attractions may draw you in, don’t overlook the wealth of indoor activities available. Museums, galleries, theaters, and restaurants provide enjoyable experiences and respite from the cold.
• Health Precautions: Cold weather can sometimes lead to health issues such as colds or flu. Make sure to prioritize your health: keep warm, stay hydrated, and consider travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Visiting France in winter FAQs

Is it worth visiting France in winter?

Absolutely! A winter break in France offers a unique charm with fewer crowds, picturesque landscapes, festive Christmas markets, and snow-covered mountain ranges for skiing. Cities such as Paris, Strasbourg, and Lyon are lit up with beautiful holiday lights, and the winter food and drink are delightful.

What is France like in winter?

France in winter can range from mild to cold, depending on the region. Northern and Eastern parts of the country often experience frost and occasional snow, while the South has milder temperatures. France’s winter is characterized by holiday decorations, festive markets, and various winter activities, especially skiing in the Alps.

Where in France is good in winter?

Many places in France are wonderful in winter. Paris is magical with its festive lights and holiday markets. Strasbourg and Colmar in Alsace are famous for their Christmas markets. The French Alps, including Chamonix, Courchevel, and Val d’Isere, are excellent for winter sports enthusiasts.

Is it worth it to go to France in December?

Absolutely, December in France is a time of festive celebrations and beautiful holiday decorations. You can enjoy the renowned Christmas markets, particularly in Alsace, indulge in festive foods and drinks, and visit iconic sites without the heavy tourist crowds of summer.

Is France or UK colder?

On average, France experiences colder winters than the UK due to its larger range of climate zones. The northern regions of France have a similar climate to the UK, while the mountainous regions of the Alps and the Pyrenees see much colder temperatures and heavy snowfall.

Where is the warmest part of France in December?

The warmest part of France in December is typically the French Riviera (Côte d’Azur), including cities like Nice and Cannes. These coastal areas of the Mediterranean have a mild winter climate, with average highs around 13-15°C (55-59°F).

Where is the warmest part of France in winter?

Similar to December, the warmest part of France in the overall winter months remains the French Riviera (Côte d’Azur). This region experiences milder temperatures and more sunshine compared to the rest of the country during this period.

Is anywhere in France warm in winter?

Relative to the rest of the country, the southern region of France, particularly the French Riviera, remains warmer in winter. However, “warm” is subjective, as the winter temperatures here typically range from 8-15°C (46-59°F) – pleasant, but not hot. If you’re looking for warmer destinations, I’d recommend checking out Spain in winter .

Where is the warmest place in France at Christmas?

The warmest place in France at Christmas tends to be the French Riviera, including cities like Nice and Cannes. This Mediterranean region enjoys milder winter weather and more sunshine than much of the rest of France.

What is the weather like in France at Christmas?

The weather in France at Christmas can vary widely. Northern and Eastern regions often experience frost and possibly snow, with temperatures hovering around 0-5°C (32-41°F). Southern and Western regions, including the French Riviera, are milder, typically with temperatures between 8-15°C (46-59°F).

Is southern France cold in winter?

Southern France, particularly along the Mediterranean coast, tends to have milder winters compared to the rest of the country. However, temperatures can still drop to around 8°C (46°F), which might be considered cold to some. It rarely snows in this region.

Are you ready for your winter trip to France?

Whether you want to enjoy snowsports in the mountains, mild temperatures in the south, or Christmas markets in the Alscase, there’s so much on offer in a French winter. 

So, what are you waiting for? Book your flight tickets and get set for a winter to remember in France!

Claire Martin

Claire is an expert in exploring Europe in the winter! She's from the UK and has been to over 20 countries on the continent in the winter season. She loves every bit of Europe in the cooler months, including finding winter sunshine in Spain, skiing in the Alps and the charm of the Nordic countries in the festive season.

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France in January

January is not the best time to visit most parts of France, because the weather is very cold and wet and the days are short. The sun rises in Paris at around 9am and sets at around 5pm. This means it’s not a great time to enjoy outdoor activities in France.

However, if you visit in the first week of January, you may still catch some of the French Christmas markets . Some stay open till January 6th, though the Christmas markets in the smaller towns will end on Christmas Eve. 

Another nice activity to enjoy in France in January is skiing. We don’t plan ski tours, but we will recommend some of our favorite places to go skiing in France.

And if your main reason for visiting France is to visit museums and art galleries, and enjoy some fantastic French cuisine at our many restaurants, it may not matter what the weather is like outside. In this case, January may be a good time to visit France, as there will be far fewer tourists at this time of year.

In this post, we’ll talk about the weather in different parts of France in January, the best places to visit and the best things to do in France during this cold month.

We warmly invite you to get inspired by our France tour packages . We can customize any itinerary to suit your preferences.

France Weather in January

January and February are the coldest months across the whole of France. January can have up to 17 days of rain or snow in Paris. But in the south of France, in places like Nice or Aix-en-Provence, this drops to around 9 days of rain, on average.

If you're planning to visit Northern France , such as Lille or Paris, the average temperature is around 43°F (6°C). The weather in the north is generally cold and cloudy, with around 60 hours of sunshine across the whole month (compared to 224 hours in July!).

It will be slightly less cold if you're visiting the south of France , with the average temperature in Nice in January being around 51°F (11°C). Nice gets around 140 hours of sunshine in January (more than twice the number of hours in the north!). So although there will be some rainy days in the south of France in January, you’ll also enjoy more sunshine.

For more information about the weather in France , visit our FAQ page!

If you're looking for some winter sun, you may like to browse our tours of the French Riviera !

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Festivals and Events in France in January

Angoulême comics festival.

The Angoulême International Comics Festival , or Festival International de la Bande Dessinée d'Angoulême in French, is one of the largest and most prestigious comics festivals in the world. The festival takes place annually in the city of Angoulême in southwest France, usually in late January or early February.

The festival features exhibitions, book signings, conferences, and workshops, as well as a competition for the best comics and graphic novels. The festival attracts top comics artists, writers, and publishers from around the world, as well as thousands of fans and enthusiasts.

The festival also offers a "Prix du meilleur album" (Best Album Award), one of the most prestigious prizes in the comic world. The award is given to the best graphic novel or comic book released in the French language over the past year.

The Cosplay Parade is another highlight of the festival, where fans dress up as their favorite comics characters and march through the streets of Angoulême. The festival also hosts a marketplace where vendors sell comics, graphic novels, and related merchandise.

Albi Jazz Festival

The Albi Jazz Festival takes place every year in Albi, southern France, with a diverse lineup of local and international jazz musicians.

Since it was founded a few decades ago, it’s become one of the most well-respected jazz festivals in France. The festival's program usually includes a range of jazz styles, including traditional, bebop, swing, and fusion.

In addition to the concerts, the festival also offers workshops, masterclasses, and other educational events for jazz enthusiasts of all levels.

It's definitely worth checking out if you happen to be in the area during the festival season.

L'Alpe d'Huez Film Festival

The Festival de l’Alpe d’Huez is an annual film festival that takes place in the ski resort town of Alpe d'Huez in France. The festival is dedicated to showcasing comedies and light-hearted films and typically takes place in mid to late January.

The festival was first established in 1997 and has become a popular event with film industry professionals and movie fans alike. The festival's program typically includes a mix of French and international comedies, including both feature-length films and short films.

The festival's main competition is the Grand Prix, which is awarded to the best comedy feature film of the year. Other awards include the Jury Prize, the Audience Award, and the Best Short Film Award.

The main screening rooms of the Festival at the Palais des Sports & des Congrès in 2023 were:

• Grande Salle du Palais (around 1000 places)
• Salle Ciné Isère (around 300 places)
• Salle Philippe de Broca (around 200 places)
• Salle Belledonne (around 100 places)

The screenings are open to the general public and will close when at capacity.

Marcin Floryan , CC-BY SA 3.0

Best Places to visit in France in January

The french riviera.

One of the sunniest parts of France all year round, one might argue that there’s never a bad time to visit the French Riviera ! (except perhaps in August, when the area is heaving not just with international tourists, but also with French people on their summer vacations). 

You won’t be swimming in the Mediterranean in January (unless you enjoy cold water swimming) but there are plenty of other things to do.

Enjoy shopping in Nice’s luxury boutiques, strolling along the Promenade des Anglais, or exploring the lovely old town. 

The pink Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and its expansive themed gardens on the peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is always a beautiful place to visit. The estate once belonged to the Rothschild family in the late 19th and early 20th century - a prominent and very rich banking family. Its gardens have been named one of France’s ‘Remarkable Gardens’, and though not all the flowers will be in bloom in January, it is still very nice to visit. The gardens also have stunning panoramic views across the Mediterranean.

One of our favorite coastal towns on the French Riviera is Menton, for its gorgeous pastel-colored seafront buildings and beach. Being so close to the Italian border, you will notice both French and Italian influences on the town and the cuisine in Menton. In fact, Italy is only a few minutes’ drive from Menton, so it’s a great place to stop off if you’re on your way to Italy or if you’ve just arrived from Italy.

Get inspired by our tours of the south of France

Toby 87 , CC-BY SA 3.0

If you like the idea of doing a driving tour of Provence , this southern region receives around 150 hours of sunshine, even in January. So this is your best bet, along with the French Riviera, if you want to spend time outside in France in January. 

Take the opportunity to visit some of Provence’s well-preserved Roman sites without the huge tourist crowds of the peak season.

In Arles you can visit the Roman arena and amphitheater, as well as underground galleries. In fact, Arles and its Roman and Romanesque sites are UNESCO World Heritage sites, some of which date back to the 1st century BC. 

The Roman Theater in Orange dates back to 25 A.D and is one of the world's best preserved Roman sites in France. You’ll see remnants of Augustine architecture and be able to admire its stunning 330 ft facade.

Finally, the Pont du Gard Roman aqueduct, which once carried spring water to local Roman towns, is an absolute must-see in Provence. Built without mortar, it’s undeniably an astonishing feat of Roman engineering. This is a very popular tourist attraction that attracts quite large numbers of people in the late spring and summer in particular. For this reason, January may be a great time to visit it, when the area will be much quieter.

In terms of towns and villages to visit in Provence in January, we recommend Aix-en-Provence (admire some of Paul Cezanne’s landscapes), Avignon and Cassis, as well as the lovely hilltop village of Gordes, Vaison-la-Romaine and St-Paul-de-Vence.

You can also visit the southern city of Marseille if you have time - here are some of the best things to do in Marseille .

If you would like to explore Provence by car at your own pace, with an itinerary crafted specifically to your tastes, we invite you to take a look at our Provence tours .

Carcassonne

The medieval city of Carcassonne is a UNESCO World Heritage site and still very nice to explore on a cold day if you wrap up warm. Carcassonne castle and the ramparts are open to visitors all year round and you can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding countryside from the castle towers. You can also take a stroll around the city walls to see the city and surrounding area from another perspective.

If you like gothic-style architecture, walk over to the Basilica of Saint-Nazaire, a beautiful gothic cathedral in the heart of the medieval city of Carcassonne. It features a stunning stained-glass rose window and has an impressive organ. This 12-century church is also good to duck into if it starts raining.

If you’re in Carcassonne in early January you may just catch the end of the Christmas market and the ice-skating rink at Place Carnot (outside of the walled city).

Check out our tours of Carcassonne

Best Things to do in France in January

Go skiing in the french alps.

If you're visiting France in January, you might be planning to head for the Alps and go skiing. We don’t include ski trips in our tours, but we know some nice resorts and locations. 

January is the ideal time to go skiing, and you’re almost guaranteed snow. One of our favorite resorts is the well-known Les Arcs in the Alps , which covers an expansive area. This means you’ll have many different slopes to choose from.

There are also many different restaurants to choose from, which keeps the prices down. One of our favorites at Les Arcs is the Bulle Café (we love the seafood and pizza). We also recommend self-service restaurant l’Altiport. And for a great night out, La Folie Douce club (“Sweet Madness”!) is a lot of fun!

If you get tired of skiing, this area is great for hiking in snowshoes. After a chilly hike, warm up with a hot lemon drink or mulled wine from La Crèche at Col de la Chal. We love the views here, although the food isn’t the best. 

A smaller ski resort that is great to visit in January is La Joue du Loup . Again, snow is almost guaranteed from mid-January through early March and it's great for families, with mostly wooden chalets surrounded by pine trees. It feels a bit more authentic (less touristy!) than other ski resorts.

Joachim Lesne , Unsplash CC0

Visit the best museums and art galleries across France

Once the Christmas vacations are over, France is much quieter, so this can be an ideal time to visit the most popular museums without the long lines and tourist crowds. 

If you're visiting Paris , you’ll definitely want to visit the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay . We recommend visiting the museum websites to check out the permanent collections and exhibitions and decide which ones you want to see in advance. Otherwise you could spend an entire day getting lost in one of these vast museums (or maybe that’s your plan!). We also love the Orangerie Museum , which hosts some of Monet’s largest water lily paintings. These cover entire walls from floor to ceiling, and are an absolute must-see if you like Claude Monet.

If you prefer contemporary art, the Centre Pompidou should definitely be on your list. And if you want something a bit different (and you’re not claustrophobic!), check out the Paris Catacombs ! 

The Palace of Versailles will also be far less crowded in January.

In the rest of France, you may like to visit:

• The Picasso Museum in Antibes
• The Chagall Museum in Nice
• The Museum of the Battle of Normandy in Bayeux
• MUCEM (the Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean) in Marseille
• The medieval hospices of Beaune , Burgundy
• The Museum of World War II History ( Centre d'histoire de la résistance et de la déportation ), Lyon
• Musée des Confluences (Anthropology and Science Museum), Lyon

If you love visiting museums, you make like to browse our self-guided tours including Paris

Do a private French cooking class

If you enjoy cooking and are visiting France in January, this is the ideal time to learn how to cook some delicious French dishes with local professionals! 

We know local French chefs across France, and some of the B&B hosts that we work with, who offer private cooking classes.

If you're visiting Normandy , you might learn how to cook some fine seafood fishes, enjoy a gourmet cheese platter, and wash it all down with some famous Calvados apple brandy or cider. 

In Provence and Dordogne , you can also learn how to prepare a dish of your choice in the home of a local chef, or with your B&B hosts. You’ll then enjoy your meal with the chef/hosts and their family. A very French experience!

Other fantastic gastronomic experiences you can enjoy in France in January include a trip to the City of Wine in Bordeaux or the International Cité of Gastronomy and Wine in Dijon .

All our Gourmet Food Tours of France include a strong gourmet element, as well as helping you discover more about France's heritage and culture.

France Just For You

FAQs about visiting France in January

Is january a good time to visit france.

If you want to experience the museums and cities without the tourist crowds or to go skiing, it can be a good time to visit France. It's not the best time to go if you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking (unless you go snow-hiking), going to the beach or walking tours, as the weather is very cold and wet in much of France.

How cold is France in January?

In most of France the temperatures will be below 12°C/54°F, except in the French Riviera and Provence, where the temperature can be around 15°C/59°F (though normally a couple of degrees lower than this). 

In Paris, the temperature tends to range between 3-8°C/38-47°F, and in parts of northern and eastern France it may drop to freezing (0°C/32°F). In the mountains, temperatures will generally be below freezing.

Is January a good time to visit Paris?

The weather will be cold and wet in January, so wrap up warm and bring waterproof clothing. However, if you come at the very beginning of the month, you’ll still be able to see the Christmas lights and Christmas markets, which normally finish around January 6th. There will also be fewer tourists in Paris in January, so if you want to take advantage and visit the most popular museums without the crowds, this could be a good time to do it.

If you want to visit France in January and explore at your own pace on a custom self guided tour of France , browse our self drive France itineraries or contact us with your France bucket list - we would love to help!

Considering visiting France in a different month? Check out our other guides below:

• France in March
• France in April
• France in May
• France in June
• France in July
• France in August
• France in September
• France in October
• France in November
• France in December

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Wherever possible we prefer to travel on our own as opposed to going on a tour package. With France - Just For You, they arranged for a vehicle and booked us into a couple of lovely B&B’s and a great Boutique Hotel in Paris and booked a couple of activities that we were interested in. Besides that, they put together a book for us with everything we …

Wherever possible we prefer to travel on our own as opposed to going on a tour package. With France - Just For You, they arranged for a vehicle and booked us into a couple of lovely B&B’s and a great Boutique Hotel in Paris and booked a couple of activities that we were interested in. Besides that, they put together a book for us with everything we would need for a safe and hassle free trip. This included general information about France, common French phrases, suggested daily itineraries, recommended restaurants, etc, etc. It was a wonderful holiday with the flexibility to see and do what you wanted at your own pace. I would not hesitate to recommend France - Just For You. Truly amazing!

Laura did such an amazing job tailoring our dream trip through the south of France. Everything was professionally done and the service and communication were perfect. Thanks to their hard work organising all of the minute details we were able to enjoy and relax all of the fun activities that they planned for us. And the guidebook is an absolute …

Laura did such an amazing job tailoring our dream trip through the south of France. Everything was professionally done and the service and communication were perfect. Thanks to their hard work organising all of the minute details we were able to enjoy and relax all of the fun activities that they planned for us. And the guidebook is an absolute treasure!

We had the most amazing holiday visiting all the wine regions in France fully arranged by France Just For You. Those ladies thought of everything….from parking & fuel station options to fabulous restaurants & patisseries, scenic walks & some of the prettiest villages, chateaus & gardens you’ll ever see. They also shared such a lot of history & fun …

We had the most amazing holiday visiting all the wine regions in France fully arranged by France Just For You. Those ladies thought of everything….from parking & fuel station options to fabulous restaurants & patisseries, scenic walks & some of the prettiest villages, chateaus & gardens you’ll ever see. They also shared such a lot of history & fun facts about every place in the itinerary. We highly recommend these ladies to all our friends as we drove 3,500 km in a comfortable, automatic car all around France totally stress free. The accommodation we were booked into was varied & absolutely beautiful. We met some amazing hosts & were made to feel welcome

An amazing trip through Southern France! This is the second trip we have booked with Émilie and her talented team at France Just for You and we couldn’t be happier. Based on our inputs, they designed an excellent trip for my husband, myself, my sister and sister-in-law using the Southern France from West to East as a template. We added several days …

An amazing trip through Southern France! This is the second trip we have booked with Émilie and her talented team at France Just for You and we couldn’t be happier. Based on our inputs, they designed an excellent trip for my husband, myself, my sister and sister-in-law using the Southern France from West to East as a template. We added several days to the itinerary to explore more of Provence and I am so happy we did. We stayed in an hotel that had been in the same family for several generations, B&Bs and a traditional Provençal mas all hosted by warm, delightful, helpful and friendly hosts. We enjoyed several pre-booked activities such as city tours, a private winery tour with picnic and bottles of wine on the lovely grounds of the estate, a private day tour with a local guide in Carcassonne to ancient fortresses, a truffle hunting adventure, a day riding an e-bike (including a picnic lunch and wine) through several villages in the Luberon in Provence. They also provide a personalized travel packet with maps and a spiral bound travel guide. We have taken several other self driving tours in Europe and none compare to France Just for You. Merci Émilie, Laura and Clelia for an amazing trip through a beautiful part of France,

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I was very nervous to visit a country that I have never learned the language spoken so that is the reason I wanted someone to help me plan this trip with my children. Emilie was wonderful. The B&Bs that she booked were some of the very best places I have ever stayed and I have traveled quite a bit. The cell phone that we were given was priceless for getting around, the language barrier and checking in with others back home. I would recommended using Emilie to everyone. It was fantastic. A trip of a lifetime with my children who are 18 and 25.

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This was the best trip to France we have ever been on! It was the second trip that Emilie and Laura at France Just for You set up for us. The first was a trip around Provence, which we loved so much that we asked them to set up our second trip to the Loire Valley, Normandy, and Paris. Both trips were tailored to our interests - food, wine, art, history, castles, cathedrals - with many special restaurants and sights that we never would have found in conventional guide books. Every B and B that we stayed in was clean, elegant, and comfortable. All of our hosts were kind and eager to help us find whatever we were looking for. I can't recommend France Just for You highly enough. I don't care where we go next time - as long as Emilie and Laura arrange it for us

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France in January – Guide to a Lovely Vacation

Every travel enthusiast has dreamt of visiting France once in their lifetime. France is known all around the world for its endless history, jaw-dropping scenery, rich culture, scrumptious gastronomy and of course, fashion. From the towering French Alps to the Mediterranean coast of the French Riviera, France has a lot to offer to its visitors. Discover this amazing country in January to witness lovely white snow in the northern parts and a cool weather in the southern parts of the country. January is a great month to visit France as has lesser crowd, economical stay options, low airfares and so much more. 

Scroll down for more information

Weather in France in January

The beautiful country of France has varying weather patterns in January. Some days in January are cold and clear while others are rainy and snowy. January makes up a perfect month for a visit because it is one of the cheapest months with better deals on flights and accommodation.

There is not much crowd and it is easier to explore the city’s attractions without standing in queues. The weather widely depends on which region of France you are planning to visit. For coastal regions pack an umbrella and waterproof gear with warm clothes and for central, eastern, and northern, France pack winter clothes including a winter coat, warm jackets for daytime, sweaters, scarf, hat, gloves and comfortable boots. 

• Temperature (Average): 5°C (41°F)
• High Temperature (Average): 5.9°C (42.6°F)
• Low Temperature (Average): 1.8°C (35.2°F)
• Day Temperature (Average): 4.6°C (40°F)
• Night Temperature (Average): 4.1°C (39°F)
• Rainfall (Average): 18 MM

Also read – France In August – The Perfect time for a Dazzling Vacation!

Best Places to Visit in France in January

No doubt why Paris is the main reason why people visit France. This city of love is magical in every season but is more lovely and ravishing in winters. The city covered in snow with a cold breeze is something to experience. Engage in an ice rink at Champs-Elysées, stroll around the Serres d’Auteuil, eat delicious pastries, watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle with snow and lights at night time and so much more. The enchanting vibes of the city attract a lot of tourists so, when are you planning to experience these vibes? 

Also read – 10 Most Romantic Hotels to Stay in Paris

The French Riviera’s largest city is worth exploring in January as the weather in the Mediterranean is the nicest in the Nice . This wonderful city offers picturesque seaside sceneries just like those shown in tons of paintings. You can stroll around the cobblestone streets of Vieille Ville, explore the Promenade Du Pailon, admire the art in the museums and have amazing local food.

3. Bordeaux

Bordeaux is known for tasting different varieties of wines in France. This city is a special treat for all the wine lovers out there. There are plenty of wine tasting festivals hosted in the winter months. If you wish to do something other than wine then you can spend some time in concert halls, visit different and unique exhibitions, eat warm street food and so much more.

4. Provence

This joyful city is located in the southern part of France. You can enjoy your cosy time in Provence by visiting the buzzing Christmas markets, going picnic by the sea, exploring Les Calanques, visit Aix-en-Provence, historic Avignon, and Marseille for some great sights and views. 

Lyon is another best option to visit in France in January. Visit this cheerful city for some amazing activities in winter such as sightseeing, visiting exhibitions and museums, going skiing, exploring La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière and participating in many other activities. End all your cravings here at Lyon. 

Also read – 8 best things to do in Lyon for an amazing holiday experience

Major Festivals in France in January

1. New Year’s Day (1 January): It is an official bank holiday and you can expect nationwide closures.

2. Epiphany/ Feast of the Kings (6 January): It is also a national holiday that is celebrated on the 12th day of Christmas, which falls on the 6th of January. On this day a special cake known as une galette de rois is made with a special hidden porcelain figure inside. It is then served and eaten by all and whoever receives that special figure in their slice is named king for the day.

3. Sarlat Truffle Festival (15-16 January): The astounding mediaeval town of Sarlat hosts a festival celebrating the truffle in mid-January. You can expect truffle flavoured gourmet specialities, workshops, live music, and so much more.

4. The Winter Sales : Les soldes d’hiver offers amazing and genuine sales which are controlled by the government. The sale starts in mid-January and ends around mid-February. 

Also read – France in December – All in One Guide For a Perfect End to the Year

Tips For Your Trip To France In January

• In January you can witness very less crowds and no long queues. The price of aeroplane tickets and hotel rooms is also low compared to other months.
• Don’t forget to visit and participate in skiing as France offers some of the best skiing areas and slopes in the world.
• In January, some hotels, cafes and restaurants may be closed due to their annual leave in southern France.
• Weather is very unpredictable in France as sometimes it can be cold, cloudy or sometimes clear and it can cause travel delays by air, rail, or car.
• Learn basic French words such as Bonjour- hello, Merci – thankyou and so on
• Carry your passport/picture IDs all time while exploring the cities of France.
• The southern region of France is a round-year destination and can be visited any time.

Also read – France In November: All in One Guide To a Splendid Winter Vacation

Frequently Asked Questions For France in January

You can plan your visit to Paris, Nice, Provence and Bordeaux in France in January and have altogether a different perspective to look at France.

The High Temperature (Average) in France is around  5.9°C (42.6°F).

Nice is located on the southeastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, French Riviera. It is the French Riviera’s largest city and is worth exploring in January as the weather in the Mediterranean is the nicest. 

Major festivals celebrated in France in January are New Year’s Day, Epiphany/ Feast of the Kings (6 January), Sarlat Truffle Festival, The Winter Sales and some more.

Don’t waste your time thinking and plan your France vacation this January! Explore this lovely country by planning your travel at Pickyourtrail as it offers amazing deals on France tour packages . Here, you can also customise your France itinerary just as you want and explore the country to the fullest. Check out these stunning packages now!

Arundhati Toshniwal

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France in January

The best reason to visit France in January can be summed up in one word: SOLDES. That’s “sales” in French, and it’s a fantastic way to Frenchify your wardrobe or your home for pennies on the dollar. While nationwide regulations have relaxed within the last year or so, for the most part shops stick to the legally regulated periods during which they can offer their goods for reduced prices. So, sometime after the Epiphany, the entire country just flat out goes on sale. That’s French bureaucracy – working for you! These sales happen in July as well, but I recommend France in January – while it can be cold, especially in the northern cities like Paris, the stores are warm and it’s the perfect excuse to spend an afternoon surrounded by your shopping bag, sipping chocolat chaud and munching on pastries. Honestly, I can’t think of a better destination for a jet-setting girls’ getaway. And I speak from experience! >>Read more tips about shopping in France

Other Wintertime Fun

Of course, there are plenty of other reasons to visit France in January, too, for both sexes. While ski conditions hit their peak, the Christmas crowds are gone – meaning you can find great discounts at French Alpine ski resorts, especially during weekdays. Flights to France approach rock bottom after the Christmas holidays, too. And hotel discounts are popular for those willing to do a bit of research. >>Read more about cheap flights to France , hotels in France and skiing in France If your climate back home is particularly frigid, let me tempt you with this: It’s not unheard of to be warmed by the Mediterranean sun while sitting at an outdoor café on a spectacular winter’s day. Now, I’m not saying you’re going to be in beach wear; but you’re not going to be bundled up like the Stay-Puft Man, either. And you’ll be surrounded by locals enjoying a respite from the tourist crowds. >>Read more about what to wear in France in the winter

Foodie Delights

January in France: Weather, travel, and events

• Post category: Travel to France
• Post author: Nassie Angadi

France is a magical at any time of the year, but we don’t usually think of going on holiday in winter. While most would shudder to think of spending grey and cloudy January in France, it can actually be a wonderful time to visit.

After the first week of January, it is back to work and back to school for more French people, and everyone is still recovering from all those heavy Christmas dinners . But that leaves only few industrious souls at that world famous museum in Paris that is usually packed to hilt.

And if you love shopping, it is also a great time to head to the shops because the French soldes d’hiver (winter sales) start in January. If you are looking for deals, this might be the ideal time to come to France.

Now to be clear, the weather isn’t the greatest in January in France when the days are quite short, and the weather rather grey up and down the country.

But with plenty of winter dishes and vin chaud , here are our top travel tips for visiting France in January. Allons-y!

6. La Grande Odyssée Savoie Mont Blanc

On average, January and February in France are the coldest months of the year. And includes Lille in the north to Marseille and Nice in the south. Yes, visiting the French Riviera in January will require a winter jacket.

Average temperatures in January in major cities across France are:

• Paris – 4.3 °C (39.7 °F)
• Lyon – 3.2 °C (37.7 °F)
• Marseille – 7.3 °C (45.1 °F)
• Bordeaux – 6.4 °C (43.4 °F)
• Lille – 4 °C (39.2 °F)
• Strasbourg – 2.3 °C (36.1 °F)
• Deauville – 5.5 °C (41.8 °F)

Even along the Mediterranean coast in cities like Saint-Tropez and Cassis , the mistral winds make the weather quite bone-chillingly cold.

If you intend to go skiing in the Alps , this is the best time to go. The top ski resorts should have plenty of snow and winter conditions should be ideal.

In Paris, there is also the odd chance that it might snow there, but don’t expect much accumulation (much to the disappointment of local children).

If you are driving , be aware that snow removal facilities in France are not as well developed as in countries (I speak as a Canadian) and there are several instances every year when traffic comes to a standstill around major cities when snow starts to accumulate.

However, this is not usually an issue as major snow storms are quite rare, and the snow usually melts in a day or two.

Where to go

January is a relatively quiet month in France, with the end of the Christmas and New Year festivities.

Hotel prices will should be lower and if you love art and culture, you are in luck because museums will be significantly less crowded than they are in the summer time.

Paris is always a wonderful destination in winter , even if it does rain a lot in January and is generally quite cloudy in weather. As I mentioned, museums will be much less crowded, and restaurants terrasses should have their blankets out for customers to cozy up outside while they sip their drinks and watch passersby.

If you are visiting towns and villages around France, many smaller tourist attractions and gîtes (rental cottages) will be closed or propose reduced hours for the off-peak season.

The part of the country that will really be flying is the Alps, as skiing is quite a tradition in France . The best resorts fill up quite quickly so if you are planning on a trip here, you should book early. You can read more about places to visit in France in winter here.

January Holidays, Events, and Festivals

France’s Christmas holidays for schools usually are either the last two weeks of December , or the last week of December and the 1st week of January. Other festivities and holidays in January include:

1. Jour de l’An – New Year’s day

• Public holiday in France: Yes
• When: January 1st

Like the rest of Europe and the Anglo-saxon world, France follows the Gregorian calendar, meaning you get to go around wishing everybody Bonne Année and have a holiday. French people will usually continue greeting people Bonne Année the first time they see them that year, even if they are deep into January.

And along with Bonne Année , you can also add Bonne Santé , meaning “Good health”.

2. Jour de l’Epiphanie – 3 Kings Day

• Public holiday: No
• When: First Sunday of the year

Three Kings day is not a public holiday but it is an important day in the French calendar. January 6th is the day when French people get to pig out on a pastry from Brittany called the galette de roi.

The pastry usually has a tiny figurine called a  feuve  is hidden by the baker within the galette de roi, and the person who finds it is crowned King or Queen for the day.

3. Winter Sales

You might think it is dreary to visit Paris in January , but the official Winter sales period ( les soldes d’hiver ) will start the 2nd week of January for four weeks. Who says there is nothing to celebrate in January?

It is a very busy time in stores, so be prepared to have your elbows out while shopping!

4. Carnival de Limoux

It is the start of the carnival season in France with one of the oldest carnivals being held in Limoux in the Occitanie (near Toulouse and Carcassone ). It actually lasts 3 months from the end of December to the end of March /start of April .

5. Truffle Festivals

Each year in mid-January,  the town of Sarlat-la-Canéda in the Dordogne (Nouvelle Aquitaine) hosts a famous festival celebrating the truffle.

There are also a couple of truffle festivals in nearby Occitanie region:

• “Truffes en fête” in Talairan
• “Fête de la Truffe” in Lalbenque

With music and festivities, along with markets selling fresh truffles and related artisanal products, you can learn everything from how to find and pick truffles to how to cook them.

La Grande Odyssée Savoie Mont Blanc is an international sled dog race spanning 900 kilometres (560 miles) in French Alps in the former duchy of Savoy (around Chambéry ).

Over 50,000 visitors head over every year to enjoy the festivities that include everything from pistes de luge to building igloos.

What to Pack

France in January is cold, so along with a winter jacket, you will want to pack warm rain boots or snow boots to keep those feet nice and toasty.

• Winter jacket
• Knitted Scarf
• Bonnet (beanie)
• Cross-body handbag

If you are heading to the Alps mountains and planning to spend much time outdoors, you may want to bring your thermal underwear . You can find more style tips here.

If you enjoyed reading this article, you may enjoy reading more about events in France in other months of the year . A bientôt!

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France in Winter: 10 Places to visit when it is cold

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11 Best Places to Visit in France in Winter

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Jan 2, 2024

Winter is an enchanting time to visit France. Besides the crisp weather, the absence of crowds makes sightseeing more enjoyable and allows you to reserve tables at desirable restaurants more easily.

The galleries of the Louvre feel incredibly spacious without mobs of tourists gathered around the masterpieces. The grandiose chateaux of the Loire Valley echo with the sound of only a few footsteps. Glorious Gothic cathedrals reverberate with sacred organ music at Christmastime.

During the holiday season, the cities and villages of France take on a magical ambiance. The elegant avenues and boutiques of Paris sparkle with lavish decorations and holiday lights. In the small towns, traditional Christmas markets tempt you with enticing treats and the chance to shop for artisanal crafts.

Even the everyday experiences can be special in wintertime. Nothing compares to enjoying hearty French bistro cuisine in Paris on a chilly December evening or sipping hot chocolate at a refined tea salon on a drizzly afternoon in January.

If you appreciate visiting uncrowded museums and monuments, winter is the best time to visit France. You will be able to stay at hotels for reduced rates during the winter (except for the Christmastime period) since it is the off-season.

From the capital city of Paris to the ski resorts of the French Alps, plan a fabulous vacation with our list of the best places to visit in France in winter.

2. Chamonix

4. alsace villages, 5. courchevel, 6. nice and menton, 7. the auvergne region, 8. the loire valley, 10. grenoble, 11. bordeaux, map of places to visit in france in winter.

Something special happens to Paris in wintertime. Without the leafy trees, the boulevards look wider, and the formal gardens appear even more austere. Parisian rooftops seem to meld with the steel-grey skies. On rare occasions when it snows, the bright powdery coating gives the city a dreamy quality.

The experience of visiting Paris in the winter is completely different than during the summertime high season. Many travelers consider winter to be the best time to visit Paris. You can wander the spacious halls of the Louvre without running into other tourists and spend as long as you'd like admiring the Mona Lisa without anyone obstructing your view.

During winter, the world-class museums of Paris invite you to come in from the cold and wander the awe-inspiring galleries. It's also a wonderful time to explore the city's historic churches . Many churches feature performances of sacred music or Christmas carols during the holiday season.

Christmas concerts take place at the Eglise Saint-Germain-des-Prés in the 6th arrondissement, the Eglise de la Madeleine in the 8th arrondissement, and the Eglise Saint-Ephrem (which presents candlelit concerts) in the 5th arrondissement, as well as at other churches.

The Basilique du Sacré-Coeur in Montmartre holds a Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve with an organ concert prior to service.

During December, Paris comes to life with Christmastime festivities and exquisite illuminations. Traditional outdoor Christmas markets (Marchés de Noël ) kick off the holiday season, around the end of November or early December. The best Christmas markets include the Marché de Noël Saint-Germain-des-Prés held near the Eglise Saint-Germain-des-Prés in the 6th arrondissement, the Marché de Noël des Tuileries at the Jardin des Tuileries which includes rides and games for kids, and the Marché de Noël Notre-Dame de Paris next to Notre-Dame Cathedral.

If you love holiday treats, be sure to visit Le Chalet de Noël du Ritz Paris . This old-fashioned Christmas market gives you a chance to sample gourmet holiday treats like gingerbread and apple strudel prepared by the pastry chef at the Ritz Paris.

During wintertime, the cozy bistros of Paris provide a welcome escape from chilly weather. Recommended Parisian bistros include L'Ami Louis, famous for its classic French cuisine and especially the roast chicken; Joséphine Chez Dumonet , a charming bistro with a wood-paneled dining room on the Rue du Cherche-Midi; and Chez Georges , which was one of Julia Child's favorite restaurants in Paris.

A favorite Parisian wintertime experience is savoring chocolat chaud a l'ancienne (old-fashioned hot chocolate ). The Maison Angelina salon de thé (tea salon) on the Rue de Rivoli is famous for its rich, dark " L'Africain" chocolat chaud , hot chocolate prepared using the finest cocoa beans sourced from three different African countries. Jean-Paul Hévin Chocolatier on Rue Saint-Honoré and the Café Pavane on Rue de Vaugirard are also renowned for their hot chocolate.

One of the top things to do in winter is ice skating . From around mid-December through February, ice-skating rinks are found next to the Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall), on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower, at the Grande Arche de la Défense, and beneath the glass dome of the Grand Palais.

If you're seeking a world-class ski destination in a picture-perfect setting, consider planning a trip to Chamonix. This little village at the foot of Mont Blanc exudes old-fashioned alpine charm, seen in its traditional wood-beamed chalets and cozy restaurants. The area also brims with tourist attractions.

A thick blanket of snow covers Mont Blanc during wintertime, and the nearby ski resorts of the French Alps take advantage of the powder conditions. Some of the top ski resorts in France are a short drive from Chamonix, including Les Grands Montets Ski Resort (just 8 kilometers away), the Domaine de Balme (18 kilometers away), and Les Houches Ski Resort (about 8 kilometers away).

You will find stylish lodges and upscale hotels in Chamonix such as Les Grands Montets Hôtel & Spa , the charming Hôtel du Clocher which has mountain views, the historic Park Hôtel Suisse & Spa , and the Belle Epoque Hôtel Mont-Blanc which offers five-star amenities.

This UNESCO-listed city has a rich history and brims with cultural attractions . You could keep busy for several days just visiting the museums and dining at cute bistros.

Put the Musée des Beaux-Arts on the top of your must-see list. The prestigious collection displays masterpieces of European painting from the 15th through the 20th centuries, along with sculptures, antiquities, decorative arts, and graphic arts.

To discover the city's ancient Roman heritage, head to the Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine . The museum gives you a sense of the ancient Roman city (called "Lugdunum") that thrived here long before the town became known as Lyon.

Considered the French culinary capital , Lyon holds a place of honor in the gastronomic heritage of France and is celebrated for its hearty traditional cuisine. Farmlands of the nearby Auvergne and Provence regions and the cheesemakers of the Alps supply the finest ingredients.

On cold winter days, you will gravitate towards Lyonnais classics, like lamb stew and roast chicken in morel sauce, because these dishes are rich and warming comfort foods.

Try the certified " Bouchons Lyonnais " (bistros) found throughout the city such as La Meunière and La Tête de Lard in the Presqu'île district; the Café du Jura , a family-run bistro that opened in 1867; and Daniel & Denise in the Croix-Rousse district, the historic silk workers' quarter. These inviting little bistros offer a friendly ambiance and authentic regional cooking.

If you appreciate haute cuisine, then reserve a table at the Restaurant Paul Bocuse . This Michelin two-starred restaurant outside of Lyon was created by legendary French chef Paul Bocuse. Renowned dishes include the quenelles of pikeperch; Bresse chicken in cream sauce with morel mushrooms; and pigeon cooked in a casserole.

Enjoy the magic of Christmas in the Alsace villages of northeastern France. These enchanting little towns burst with festivities during December. Lovely decorations adorn the pastel-painted half-timbered houses, and the town squares feature holiday-themed centerpieces or illuminated Christmas trees.

You will be treated to seasonal goodies and hot spiced beverages, as you shop for gifts at the Marchés de Noël . Take your time and soak up the convivial ambiance at these traditional outdoor Christmas markets.

The historic town of Obernai hosts a Marché de Noël, where local vendors sell their artisanal crafts. It's a good place to start your Christmas shopping.

Your sweet tooth will be tempted by the Christmastime baked goods, such as gingerbread and kougelhopf (brioche cake studded with raisins and almonds), at the Marché de Noël in Kaysersberg , a quaint town with many half-timbered houses.

In early December, the picturesque village of Ribeauvillé holds a Medieval Christmas Market where you can shop for handcrafted nativity scenes and gourmet specialties inspired by recipes from the Middle Ages. The medieval walled town of Dambach-la-Ville also hosts a traditional Marché de Noël with musical performances.

One of the Plus Beaux Villages de France (Most Beautiful Villages of France), Eguisheim dazzles you with its holiday decorations and events. The Christmas market of Eguisheim has earned the "Cities and Villages of Christmas" designation for its authenticity.

Colmar pulls out all the stops for the Christmas season. This quintessential Alsatian town features cobblestone pedestrian streets and quaint half-timbered houses and has many cultural attractions.

With six Christmas markets (Marchés de Noël), the town of Colmar ensures a lively visit during Christmastime. The Christmas markets are in the historic center of town and you can easily stroll from one to another.

Do you love downhill skiing in a setting of spectacular scenery? You can't do better than a ski vacation at Courchevel in the French Alps.

Courchevel nestles within Les 3 Vallées , a premier ski resort in France and the world's largest ski area (with seven interconnected ski resorts). Les 3 Vallées (Three Valleys) has 600 kilometers of ski slopes accessible by 158 lifts.

Les 3 Vallées includes four charming historic villages (Brides-les-Bains, Méribel, Orelle, and Saint-Martin-de-Belleville) and three modern villages (Courchevel, Les Menuires, and Val Thorens), with a wide variety of accommodations and dining options including Michelin-starred restaurants.

The historic villages incorporate smaller hamlets: clusters of buildings that center around high-steepled stone churches, dotting the mountainsides and valleys.

Overlooking a picturesque bay on the Côte d'Azur , Nice enjoys a Mediterranean climate with gentle winters. In fact, Nice became a popular wintertime resort in the 19th century, prized for its luxurious resort hotels, sublime sea views, and lovely gardens.

The months of December, January, and February bring mild, refreshing weather, around the 50s to 60s Fahrenheit. Winter is not the time to sunbathe at the beach, but you can still find plenty of things to do . Take walks along the waterfront and dine al fresco on pleasant outdoor terraces when the sun is out. Prepare for a mix of sunny days and rain during wintertime on the French Riviera.

In mid-February, the Carnaval de Nice takes place in the center of Nice at the Place Masséna and the Jardin Albert 1er (part of the Promenade du Paillon green space near the Promenade des Anglais). This lively event rivals the famous carnivals of Rio de Janeiro and Venice. Every year, the carnival attracts a crowd of several hundred thousand spectators who come to watch the parades with its marvelous floats and vibrant entertainment.

The French Riviera town of Menton near the border with Italy also hosts another fabulous wintertime event. The Fête du Citron (Citrus Festival) draws thousands of visitors to the town from mid-February until early March to celebrate the locally grown lemons. Parades feature dazzling floats and elaborate sculptures like lions and castles, made entirely from citrus fruits.

A worthwhile off-the-beaten-path tourist destination, the Auvergne region conceals many surprises: dramatic natural scenery; alluring spa towns; interesting cultural attractions like churches built from volcanic stone; and festivals of jazz, classical music, dance, and street art.

A big draw during winter, the Sancy Snow Jazz festival presents a program of New Orleans jazz, swing music, and classic jazz music. The program line-up includes high-caliber musical artists. Check ahead to see the festival's schedule and plan your trip.

Otherwise, winter is a quiet, peaceful time in the Auvergne region. If you're seeking a relaxing getaway, head to one of the historic spa towns of Auvergne for a rejuvenating experience.

The Hôtel des Thermes les Dômes is a contemporary-style spa and hotel in the Belle Epoque spa town of Vichy . Surrounded by a beautiful garden, this hotel offers spa stays year-round. The spa program includes thermal mineral water baths and wellness treatments.

Châtel-Guyon , another Belle Epoque spa town about five kilometers from Riom (and 45 kilometers from Vichy), has a modern thermal spa facility, Aïga Resort Thermal , that offers massages and has a hammam with steam baths.

The Hôtel Spa Thermalia in Châtel-Guyon features an on-site restaurant, a full-service spa, an outdoor swimming pool, a sauna, and a Jacuzzi.

For spa or ski vacations, Le Mont-Dore is a good choice. Le Mont-Dore has a thermal spa resort, Le Mont-Dore - Chaîne Thermale du Soleil , as well as ski areas within the Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d'Auvergne . There are opportunities for cross-country skiing and downhill skiing on the Massif du Sancy.

The Loire Valley gives you the impression of stepping into a children's storybook. A landscape of lush forests and gentle rivers is dotted with sumptuous castles featuring turreted towers or slate-tiled mansard roofs. In wintertime, the fairy-tale castles of the Loire Valley look even more enchanting under a fresh dusting of powder snow.

During the holiday season, the chateaux are decked out with Christmas adornments. Some of the Loire Valley castles celebrate the season with lavish Christmas events .

Emblematic of the Renaissance, the Château de Chambord delights you with magnificent garden illuminations and indoor decor from December 1st through January 7th. Christmas in Chambord includes music concerts; medieval dances; games from the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries; and walks led by costume-attired guides. Additional activities (storytime, a Christmas show, and creative workshops) take place during this period on the weekends.

In the town of Blois, the Château Royal d'Amboise features special Christmas decorations in the gardens, as well as in the interior. Other Loire Valley castles adorned for the holidays include the Château de Cheverny , a 17th-century manor house, and the Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire , which decorates its Great Salon, Library, and other rooms with elegant decor.

Lille boasts excellent art museums and hearty local cuisine, welcoming attractions during wintertime, although it does get chilly. From December through February, the average daily temperature ranges from the mid-30s to mid-40s in degrees Fahrenheit. During wintertime, it rains several days per month, and light snowfall is possible.

Must-see tourist attractions in Lille include the Place du Général de Gaulle with its ornate Baroque Flemish architecture; the Palais des Beaux-Arts (Fine Arts Museums), which presents masterpieces of European art from the 12th through the 20th centuries; and the Musée du Louvre-Lens , an off-site location of the Louvre Museum in Paris, housed in a sleek contemporary-style gallery space about a 30-minute drive or train ride from Lille.

Recommended brasserie restaurants to try include the Estaminet au Vieux de la Vieille , which serves traditional Flemish (northern French) cuisine in a cozy dining room with a wood-beamed ceiling, and L'Estaminet Gantois , which specializes in regional cuisine. The Estaminet La Vieille France also serves nostalgic cuisine (as a Flemish grandmother would prepare) in an old-fashioned dining room.

Lille sets up a Village de Noël (Christmas Market) every year from mid-November through December. Dozens of wooden chalets offering Christmastime treats, nativity scenes, Christmas decorations, and artisanal crafts. You can sample fresh-baked gingerbread and hot spiced beverages while browsing the gift items.

Grenoble looks stunning during wintertime, with the French Alps presiding over the city. The snowcapped mountain peaks remind you that downhill skiing is not far away.

Grenoble is a great place to stop on your way to ski resorts in the Alps. The drive only takes two hours to reach Courchevel, one of the premier ski resorts in France.

The top attractions of Grenoble include the Fort de la Bastille , which overlooks Mont Blanc and the Massif du Vercors mountain peaks, and the Vieille Ville (Old Town), a maze of winding cobblestone streets lined with historic buildings. Within the Vieille Ville, the Musée de Grenoble presents an excellent collection of European paintings and Impressionist art.

Why visit Bordeaux during the wintertime? The answer is simple: You will have plenty of museums and monuments to discover . Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , the city counts over 350 buildings within its perimeter, which are classified as Historical Monuments.

In the heart of Bordeaux, the Cathédrale Saint-André dates back to the 12th century when it was a stop on the Way of Saint James pilgrimage trail to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. The cathedral was constructed over the centuries and exemplifies French Gothic style.

The Grand Théâtre (which presents ballets, operas, and music performances) on the Place de la Comédie and the Place de la Bourse reveal the Neoclassical architecture that has been favored in Bordeaux since the Age of Enlightenment. At the Place de la Bourse, the Musée National des Douanes educates you about the heritage of trading and commerce in Bordeaux.

Bordeaux has several Christmas Markets (Marchés de Noël), including a market held at the Allées de Tourny near the Grand Théâtre. Another favorite Christmas Market is held on the square in front of the Saint-André Cathedral and includes carols, as well as traditional Christmas chalets that sell gifts and holiday season goodies.

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Top 10 Places to Visit in France in Winter (and What to Expect!)

Winter holidays in France are an enchanting spectacle of snow, sun, and festive delights. Whether you’re spending a few days in Paris , with its Eiffel Tower illuminated with thousands of glistening lights, escaping to a cosy chalet in the French Alps, or perhaps seeking a sophisticated winter sun break coupled with festive events along the Côte d’Azur, winter in France is set to impress.

Winter sports enthusiasts can indulge in snowboarding or skiing in chic alpine resorts, while wine connoisseurs can take day trips to vineyards and enjoy festivals that pay homage to the grape in Bordeaux and Lyon.

Wherever you decide to visit, be it for sunshine, snow, gastronomy, or anything in between, you will always be satisfied when you spend part of your winter in France.

Related Reading: Visiting France in Summer

France Winter Weather

With Atlantic, Mediterranean, alpine and interior regions, holidays in France, and the weather, can vary dramatically from place to place.

City stays in northern France can be colder during the winter months. Therefore, it’s wise to wrap up warm when visiting Paris and beyond as the climate can be damp and rainy at this time of year.

In the scenic French Alps, average daytime temperatures between December and February range from 5 °C to -4°C with around 3 hours of sunshine per day. However, with numerous winter activities to keep you warm, the weather will be a secondary concern!

In complete contrast, the Côte d’Azur along the Mediterranean coastline benefits from almost 3,000 hours of sunshine a year, and temperatures rarely drop below a pleasant 12°C in winter, making it the perfect spot for a seasonal sunny break.

In the west of France around Bordeaux, temperatures are just marginally cooler with December temperatures of around 10°C and high humidity.

Read also: Best Christmas Markets in France

Best Places to Visit in France in Winter

If you’re looking for things to do in France in the winter, each region offers something unique to travellers. Families may decide to head for the sun and festivals of Nice, Cannes or Menton, or meet the cartoon characters of Disneyland Paris, a short trip outside the French capital.

For couples and groups, the second city Lyon with its light festival and foodie options may appeal and the festive markets of Alsace are always a popular choice for all ages.

Then there is Paris , a jewel in the crown with a rich history encompassing art, architecture, music and cuisine. A city where you can spend hours marvelling over Impressionist paintings, sipping coffee in a salon or walking by the Seine at twilight.

If you still need a little inspiration on where to spend winter in France, here is our top 10 list (not in any particular order) of places perfect for winter holidays in France.

Lyon, France’s second city, is a true gem and a delight to visit during the winter months. Perched between the Rhône and Saône rivers, the city is a blend of historic and modern, with Roman amphitheatres, street art and skyscrapers. It’s the gastronomic capital of France – no easy feat to achieve, and the best news is that temperatures rarely drop below 0°C in winter.

Visiting Lyon in November? The new Beaujolais Nouveau wine is released on the third Thursday each year, and the city celebrates by offering wine tastings, with performing street theatres and a huge firework display in the evening.

Christmas in Lyon is even more exciting, with the annual Fête des Lumières, a spectacular light show taking place the second week of December. Lyon’s winter market also runs concurrent with this, a wonderland of craft stalls selling mulled wine, artisan gifts and foods such as tartelette – a Savoyard classic crafted from ham, cheese, potatoes and onions.

If you plan to visit after the festivities cease, there’s still plenty to see and do in Lyon. You can hike or take the funicular to Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a hilltop basilica with stunning vistas, stroll cobbled streets of Vieux Lyon and pop into a ‘bouchon’ – a typical Lyonnais restaurant for platters of traditional fare.

Read also: Lyon in Winter / Best Day Trips from Lyon

Menton is a charming French resort close to the Italian border with tall slender buildings in shades of peach, ochre and terracotta. It’s the perfect escape for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of Nice and Cannes, and as average winter temperatures hover around 12°C, it’s pleasant to spend time at a beachside restaurant feasting on fresh seafood as the sun shines or taking a walk around the many botanical gardens.

One highlight of the Menton calendar takes place in February. The Fête du Citron sees the entire city adorned in citrus fruits – giant animal statues, mosaic floorings and famous structures, all curated from oranges and lemons. This bright and cheerful fruity French festival begins in Mid-February and often continues through to early March each year. Even if you’re staying in the surrounding area, it’s worth a day trip solely for the photo opportunities.

If you’re searching for other places to visit in France during winter, Menton is also within 20 minutes’ drive of Monaco, where you can take a spin around the Formula One racetrack or stop at the historic casino for a flutter on the roulette tables à la Monsieur Bond.

Read also: Best Things to do in Menton

More than just a town near a ski resort, Annecy could be the ultimate destination for a winter holiday in France for solo travellers, couples, groups and families.

The snow-capped mountains provide a spectacular backdrop, framing Lake Annecy and the canal side 10th-century town perfectly.

If you’re visiting Annecy over the festive season, local chocolatiers allow you to sample their creations and you can visit Santa’s Hamlet for some festive fun, before taking a stroll through the Christmas market.

During the rest of the winter seasons in France, action-packed days can be spent snowboarding, bike skiing, enjoying dog sled rides or snowshoeing in nearby La Clusaz, and evenings by a roaring fire back in Annecy tucking into delicious Savoyard cuisine.

Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing cruise on the lake with family and friends, hike in the mountains or spend time in a luxury spa being pampered and rejuvenated after a day of exploring.

When thinking about France winter travel, cities such as Nice, Paris and Lyon usually overshadow Bordeaux in terms of suitability. However, this elegant French city, located in the southwest corner of France, known for its food, wine, and arts shouldn’t be overlooked.

Winter is the time of year in France for festive markets and Bordeaux has not one, but three of them, and one is on a boat! A Christmas circus takes place in the city with clowns and trapeze artists, and visitors can join locals carol singing by candlelight at Palais de la Bourse.

Travelling to Bordeaux outside the festive season? Take a trip on La Sicambre, a tall, elegant sailboat/restaurant which glides along the Garonne, allowing visitors the opportunity to see the city from a different perspective.

Alternatively, The Secrets of Bordeaux tour – a game educating tourists about the city’s history and monuments while solving puzzles, can keep friends and younger visitors occupied for hours.

Wine-tasting trips also operate in the countryside around Bordeaux from November to late March. An expert guide can transport you to grand chateaux and some of the region’s famous wineries for an afternoon of wine sampling.

Read also: Best Day Trips from Bordeaux

ALSACE-COLMAR

Colmar located 40 miles southwest of Strasbourg in the Alsace region, is a picture-perfect city to visit in France in winter. With a well-preserved cobbled Old Town, half-timber gingerbread-style houses and a canal-side area known as Little Venice, it offers much to tourists and day-trippers.

During winter months, Colmar’s festive market is a huge draw, running from mid-November until late December. Small decorative wooden chalets line the streets, and trees and houses illuminate with lights creating a magical fairy-tale ambience.

Foodies will adore the plethora of Michelin-star restaurants in Colmar. One such eatery, Girardin – Gastronomique brings a modern twist to Alsatian cuisine and has a menu for plant-based diners . Dining can be accompanied by a glass of Riesling or Pinot produced locally, as this city is also known as the capital of Alsatian wine!

If you’re planning to visit Colmar outside the festive period, there are several museums to explore including the local Chocolate Museum, Unterlinden Museum and Museum Bartholdi, plus nearby countryside spas can tempt you to book a relaxing massage or day floating in the heated swimming pools.

As if Alsace couldn’t get any more interesting, there are also winter sports to enjoy including skiing, sledding and snowboarding in the nearby Vosges Mountains.

Paris is a perfect winter holiday destination in France. The festive lights along Champs-Elysees are turned on in November, bathing the city streets and gardens in an atmospheric glow.

In December, Christmas markets are evident throughout the city, in Tuileries Gardens, around Notre-Dame Cathedral, but a favourite of those in the know, is the Alsace Market at Gare de l’Est where you can sample Alsatian specialities and purchase handicrafts from the region without even having to leave Paris.

From mid-December to the second week of January, an ice rink is erected at Grand Palais des Glaces, where you can skate to live DJ sounds and if you’re travelling to Paris around this time, the annual shopping sales begin throughout the city!

You may also enjoy visiting Paris on Valentine’s Day in February, after all, it is probably the most romantic city on the planet! If so, head for the Sacré-Cœur or Montparnasse Tower for exceptional panoramic vistas of the Eiffel Tower and the Left Bank, explore paintings by the French Impressionists at Musée de l’Orangerie and enjoy afternoon tea at Laduree, before taking a sunset cruise on the river Seine.

Read also: Paris Travel Guide

If you’re wondering where to go in France in winter, the colourful seaside city of Nice on the Côte d’Azur could be the perfect holiday solution.

You can spend days strolling, skating or cruising on a Segway along Promenade d’Anglais, browsing flower stalls and feasting on scrumptious socca in the Old Town market, or getting lost in labyrinthine streets lined with perfumeries and Moroccan-style cafes.

The city unveils its winter wonderland in late November, complete with snow-sprayed trees and stalls selling glühwein and gingerbread accompanied by an ice rink and Ferris wheel.

However, the winter highlight is Nice Carnival which takes place in February, a 700-year-old vibrant extravaganza of themed parades with giant figurines and street theatres hosting shows throughout the city. The festival has a different theme each year with live music, a flower parade, delicious street food and fireworks.

Outside these times, you can visit Monastère de Cimiez with its beautiful gardens, the music museum in Palais Lascaris and walk along the coastal path to Villefranche-sur-Mer updating your Instagram en route.

Alternatively, take day trips from Nice such as the ski bus to the Alps for winter sports fun or drive to Grasse, France’s perfume capital and curate your own bespoke fragrance.

Read also: Best Things to do in Nice

FRENCH ALPS

Winter holidays in the French Alps can be as relaxed or action-packed as you choose. Bustling valley villages beneath snowy mountain peaks are awash with historic houses and wooden chalets, where fine restaurants serve raclette, fondue and wood-fired pizza.

Days can be spent skiing, snowboarding, climbing, ice skating and dog sledding or you can simply browse shops, enjoy spa facilities and meet new friends in buzzing après ski bars.

If it is winter events you seek, in mid-December, Les Deux Alpes hosts Rise Ski Festival, a fun-filled week of snow activities, skiing and live music, and in February around Courchevel, you can enjoy the thrilling International Fireworks Festival with street performances and participate in traditional torchlit ski descents from the mountain top.

If this all sounds like too much action, hop on a cable car from Chamonix to the highest summit to achieve breathtaking views across the French, Swiss and Italian Alps.

Cannes is a favourite of Hollywood celebrities, as every year during the film festival , thousands descend on the Mediterranean seaside resort to claim trophies for artistic works and watch the latest movie releases .

During the rest of the year, the city is quite laid back and relaxed, although it never quite loses its exclusive vibe. Christmas time involves a festive village with seafood and champagne bars, a 400 sqm ice rink and parades, but it’s fair to say most of the activity takes place in chic bars and restaurants near the beach.

In January on La Croisette, global fashion emporiums such as Chanel, Dior, YSL and Dolce and Gabbana reduce their clothing and accessory prices, thus offering significant discounts as they make way for the new season’s stock.

Five-star hotels that usually charge high rates during the summer months can be booked at competitive prices during winter, giving you the opportunity to live like an A-lister without the eye-watering price tag.

There are also several festivals to enjoy nearby including the Mimosa Festival in February in Mandelieu-la-Napoule, a week-long celebration of the fragrant flower accompanied by dancing.

Read also: Best Things to do in Cannes

DISNEYLAND PARIS

If you’re thinking about where to go in France in winter with children, Disneyland Paris ticks all the boxes. Not only do you all get to meet your favourite Disney characters from the movies, but you also have the chance to see live entertainment and parades, browse festive markets and stay in a themed hotel!

It can be quite chilly in this region of France in winter, therefore lots of clothing layers are required, and if you are staying in one of the Disney resorts use the Early Magic Hours to have the park to yourselves without queueing for rides in the cold.

The themed rides, attractions and restaurants in Disneyland Paris are open throughout the winter season providing much for families to do, and outside the park, there’s shopping at La Vallee Village, you can play golf, or pop into Paris for a day on the train.

Hopefully, we’ve inspired your next France winter holidays! Whether you seek a sleek city stay with great food and wine, a coastal resort with museums and beaches or an alpine retreat with lakes, sports and spas, you can travel France in winter to a place that suits your taste and budget.

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Your Ultimate Guide To Visiting Paris In January

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Paris, je t’aime. Winter, spring, summer, and fall, Paris is pretty idyllic . From stunning architecture to world-class museums, it is a must-visit city in the world. And if you are planning to visit Paris in January, you’ve come to the right place.

I lived in Grenoble, France for 5 months, and definitely made plenty of trips to Paris during that time (including a trip to Paris in May ). The first time I ever visited Paris was in January, and while it may not be the place to go to escape the cold, it certainly is a wonderful time of year to go !

So bundle up and let’s talk about traveling to Paris in January!

The Ultimate Paris In January Guide

What to pack for a january visit to paris.

This may be a no-brainer, but Paris in January can be quite chilly. And as this is a city where you’ll be doing plenty of walking around outside, dressing warm is essential.

The temperatures in Paris during January can average 43ºF (6ºC) during the day and be as low as 33ºF (1ºC) at night . It can also feel quite chilly as it is overcast many days with drizzle and rain. All of this is something to take into consideration when packing for Paris in January. Here is a quick list of things to bring (I have a full Europe in winter packing list to refer to as well):

Female January in Paris Packing Guide:

• Fuzzy, warm socks
• Tights or long underwear to wear under jeans on cold days
• Cute sweaters
• Warm jacket (I am a big fan of this coat from The NorthFace )
• Earmuffs or hat

Male January in Paris Packing Guide:

• Men’s waterproof boots
• Long underwear to wear under jeans
• Pull-over or nice sweaters
• Warm jacket

If you can’t tell, layers are key when traveling around Paris during the winter months. And while it is the perfect time to museum-hop, you’ll find that walking around is a great way to see Paris. So dress for the weather and you’ll be in great shape when you’re wandering the streets of Paris!

Come To Paris In January For The City, Stay For The Fashion

One of my favorite things about January in France is a little thing called Soldes. It essentially is a twice a year sale in both January and July. When I first moved to Grenoble, I was surprised to see so many amazing sales. I got a great deal on a Longchamp bag I had my eye on for only $65 USD when it is easily double that price at home.

But in all seriousness, the sales are fantastic. So if you want to get great deals on French fashion, you’ll definitely want to come during January for the sales.

Some great stores to check out include Printemps Department Store and Galleries Lafayette Paris , but even smaller, boutique shops participate in Soldes too.

PS- if you are visiting Paris in both January and February, you can catch Paris Fashion Week !

Enjoy The Warm, Hearty Winter Comfort Food In Paris

Winter in Paris is a great excuse to eat all the melty, cheesy, comfort foods that France is known for. Want to enjoy a tasty fondue? Savor it at Pain Vin Fromages . Craving traditional raclette to smother over potatoes? Le Chalet Savoyard is a must-try.

And while a roast chicken is great any time of year, in the winter it is just perfection. Enjoy the hearty stews like cassoulet or petit sale aux lentilles or sit back with a glass of robust Bordeaux while tucking into a tasty tartiflette (potatoes layered with cheese, onions, and bacon).

That’s right, Paris is the perfect place to enjoy the best winter comfort food.

Plan Indoors Activities In Paris During Winter

While wandering the streets of Paris is great , when it is really chilly, you’ll want to head indoors. But that doesn’t mean you can’t see the best of Paris during that time!

This is the time to check out the museums because 1) it’s freezing and 2) there are far fewer crowds in Paris in January. This means you don’t necessarily have to buy tickets in advance to see everything (although I would still get the Louvre timed entry tickets , just in case), and you get a lot of places almost to yourselves!

We loved visiting Museum L’Orangerie and D’Orsay with far fewer people than we would’ve seen in the summer months! For off-the-beaten-path attractions like Museum Rodin or the charming Église de Saint Germain des Prés, you could be the only person there!

Check out the Paris Pass while you’re there for access to several museums!

Aside from museums and churches, there are gorgeous covered walkways to explore, like Passage Choiseul and Galarie Vivienne with adorable stores to venture around on a chilly, winter day.

And I can’t forget all of the markets like the Marche Des Enfants Rouges (the oldest and most charming covered market in Paris)! Grab brunch or sample amazing French cheese to warm up from the cold.

When you need a place to sit down and enjoy a nice cup of coffee or hot chocolate, exploring the various cafes in Paris is the perfect January activity. We love Les Deux Magots for the ancient hot chocolate and its perfect melted-candy-bar richness.

Also, France is known for its cinema! So on days where you aren’t sure what to do and the weather isn’t ideal go catch a great show from one of the best countries for cinema in the world.

Exploring indoor places is perfect when you want to get out of the rain and inclement January weather.

Be Prepared For Less Sunlight In January

Paris is pretty far north, meaning that during the summer months you’ll have daylight well into the late hours of the evening. But in the winter, the opposite is true. You won’t see the sunrise until around 8:30-8:45 am and sunset is around 5:10-5:45 pm.

The good news about this, though, is you won’t have to stay up late to catch the Eiffel Tower lit up and sparkling at night! The best time to go is around sunset for great photos of the Eiffel Tower. I saw the Eiffel Tower lit up a lot during my time visiting Paris during January, but in the summer it was definitely a struggle, as we had to wait until almost 11 pm!

Also, maybe check out a river cruise (dress warmly, though!) right around sunset. But for wandering around Paris in the daylight, you’ll definitely want to plan for only 8-9 hours of it before the sun goes down.

Catch The End Of The Paris Christmas Markets

Unlike many German Christmas markets, a handful of Christmas markets in Paris stay open in the early days of January. So if you plan your visit during the beginning of January, you can catch the Christmas markets at Hotel de Ville, Saint-Germain-des-Pres, the Champs de Mars, and the Tuileries Christmas Market which are open until around January 5!

So if you can’t make it for Christmas, January is a great time to extend the holiday season in Paris!

Enjoy The Best Time To Visit Paris To Avoid Crowds

I’ve visited Paris in winter, spring, summer, and fall, and I have to say, winter is the best time to visit to avoid other tourists. Kids are back in school after the holiday break, people are looking for warm-weather destinations to escape the cold, etc.

So if you have the flexibility and can fit in a trip to Paris in January, you will certainly avoid most crowds. I can’t say the same if you plan a visit in July, but when it comes to having museums almost empty compared to summer months, January is a perfect time to visit Paris. Plus, it is cheaper to visit this time of year for hotels as well!

Perfect Day Trips From Paris In January

If you’ve got 4 or more days to spare in Paris , I definitely recommend checking out some fantastic day trips!

However, there are some places like the Monet gardens that are probably not as great to visit in January. Instead, opt for some time exploring the Palace of Versailles , the chateaux of the Loire Valley , or perhaps a Burgundy wine tour for fun day trips to explore during January!

Where To Stay In Paris During Winter

Paris has a ton of options for hotels, and when you visit in January, you’ll find amazing deals on any hotel, so if you’re looking to splurge for less, this is the time to do it. Find where to stay in Paris based on your travel style .

Best Budget Hotel In Paris: Hotel du Printemps

If you want to stay in the perfect off-the-beaten-path area with tons of great local cafes, patisseries, and bars, the 12 th Arrondissement, and the Hotel du Printemps is perfect for you.

It is further from the main tourist attractions in Paris, but for under $100 per night, it is a great spot close to the metro and has amazing places to eat and drink nearby.

Read reviews and book Hotel du Printemps here!

Best Mid-Range Hotels In Paris

Suites & Hotels Helzear Champs-Elysees

Located in the heart of the action near the famous shopping street, Champs-Elysees, the Suites & Hotels Helzear Champs-Elysees is perfect if you want to be close to everything like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, etc. for only $150 per night!

Read reviews and book Suites & Hotels Helzear Champs-Elysees here!

Hotel Duquesne Eiffel

For a great hotel with views of the Eiffel Tower, this is the place to be. At only around $150 per night in January, it has airport transportation, the option for breakfast in the room, your own balcony to admire the streets of Paris or the Eiffel Tower, and more!

Read reviews and book Hotel Duquesne Eiffel here!

Best Luxury Hotel In Paris: Grand Hotel du Palais Royal

Feel like a royal here for much less. Starting at $370 per night in January, you’ll love the spa with a Turkish bath, fitness center, restaurant and bar for the perfect post-exploring teatime, and your own balcony. Oh, and you’ll also be steps from both the Louvre and Palais Royal.

Considering this hotel is upwards of $500+ per night during the height of summer, going in January makes this much more affordable!

Read reviews and book Grand Hotel du Palais Royal here!

Other Tips For Visiting Paris In January

• Pickpocketing and petty theft are still prevalent in the winter months. So avoid it by staying vigilant, only bringing what you’ll need for the day and keeping your passport and other credit cards stowed in the safe at your hotel, etc. I also love carrying an anti-theft cross-body bag for extra protection.
• For booking flights, I love checking Skyscanner . It combines a ton of airlines, including discount airlines to find you the best deal. So whether you’re traveling from Lisbon or San Francisco, you can find a great flight to Paris.

A visit to Paris during the winter months, especially January, isn’t a popular thing to do for many travelers, making it the perfect opportunity to avoid crowds, enjoy a more local feel, and eat all of the French winter comfort foods you desire. If there is one time of year to definitely visit Paris, I can’t recommend January enough!

Want more? Check out these posts:

• 1 Day in Paris Itinerary
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• How to Spend 2 Days in Paris
• 3 Day Paris Itinerary
• Ultimate 5 Days in Paris
• How to Spend 4 Days in Paris
• Paris Bucket L ist
• Ultimate Paris to Versailles Day Trip Guide
• Best French Cheeses
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• Ultimate France Bucket List
• Winter in Annecy
• Top Things to do in Dijon
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• Best Weekend Trips From Paris
• Things to do in Grenoble
• Best Day Trips From Annecy
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• Best Alsace Christmas Markets
• Ultimate Luberon Villages Guide
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• Ultimate 5-Day French Riviera Itinerary
• Ultimate Solo Travel Guide in Paris
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• How to Spend 7 Days in Paris
• How to Spend 10 Days in France
• Helpful French Phrases to Know
• Ultimate Paris 2024 Olympics Travel Guide
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• 1 Day in Colmar
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• Ultimate 7-Day Normandy Road Trip
• Best Things to Do in Deauville
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• Things to Do in Paris in the Summer

Would you visit Paris in January? When would you go to Paris? What is your favorite time of year for traveling? Let us know in the comments!

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Paris in January: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

• How to Pack
• Events and Activities
• Travel Tips

Paris in January is chilly and cloudy, with temperatures ranging from a low of 2 degrees Celsius (35.6 degrees Fahrenheit) to a high of 6 degrees Celsius (42.8 degrees Fahrenheit). The early winter drowsiness has passed, the holiday hoopla has died down, and the New Year brings in gradually longer days. There's a bit more time to enjoy outdoor activities with each passing one. If you're looking to take a trip to Paris during which you can truly kick back and relax, January is the perfect time, as the city's atmosphere feels much more laid back.

Paris Weather in January

During this time of year, there's a crisp, clean winter ambiance in the air—one that comes with a drop in temperatures and often clearer skies than earlier in the season.

The first month of the year in the French capital tends to be cold, with occasional spells of icy rain. Snow is rare at this time of year, but when it does come, it tends to melt fairly quickly, leaving a slushy mess. This is why packing your suitcase with the proper clothes—and especially layers—will ensure you stay warm, high and dry.

How to Pack for a January Trip

January in Paris is generally pretty cold, and it's not uncommon to see the mercury dip below the freezing point. What's more, wind chill can make the cold seem considerably more biting. Make sure you line your suitcase with plenty of warm sweaters, coats, scarves, warm socks, and a hat that will protect your ears and head.

• Pack an umbrella that can withstand a wet, gusty day even if there's no rain in the forecasts. Although heavy rains are less common in January, Paris is well known for its erratic and sudden downpours.
• Make sure to pack a good pair (or two) of waterproof shoes . Shoes with good tread and grip are important, because the streets can be slick and icy in January. Especially when exploring hilly areas like  Montmartre , wearing proper footwear will ensure you don't take a slide (or worse, a fall). When there is snow, it tends to melt when it hits the ground, creating potentially treacherous icy and slushy terrain. This is why high heels and dress shoes are not ideal for walking around the city in January—at least not for any length of time. And just because you see the locals doing it doesn't mean you should.
• Bring a pair of high-quality gloves  to make sure you don't let cold hands distract you from the sights. They may not be necessary in the end, but they're good to have on hand.
• Think about packing a few books and magazines you've been dying to read in case you decide to spend a cozy morning or afternoon reading in a cafe.
• If you're planning to  hit the winter sales in Paris , you should consider keeping your cash safe with a high-quality money belt worn under your clothes. These belts can be perfectly discreet, but allow you to feel much more secure with your funds. 

January Events and Activities in Paris

While January is a quieter time of year in the capital, there's still plenty to do, especially if you enjoy more low-key, contemplative activities. We recommend some of the following annual activities, and you can also consult our full guide to January events in Paris to beeline to the best exhibits, shows, and other happenings during your trip.

• Visit some of your favorite museums. Because tourism is in low-tide mode compared to the spring or summer, visiting January in Paris also provides great opportunities for  really  lingering in some of the city's best spots for art and culture, such as the  Musée d'Orsay  or the  Centre Pompidou .
• January is also a great time to spend time in the warmth and charm of Paris' many charming  cafes , so be sure to pack plenty of books and magazines for your trip. And If you're interested in Paris intellectual history, cafe-hopping in the city's historical  Latin Quarter  or in Saint-Germain-des-Prés would be a great way to spend part of a day.Why not  visit some of the cafés  where legendary writers such as Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Simone de Beauvoir, and James Baldwin spent their days working on novels and arguing with one another? 
• Get outdoors! While many believe cold weather means cozying up inside, wintertime in Paris is actually a wonderful time to take in all of the city's natural beauty. Crisp wintery mornings and cozy evenings can afford you the opportunity to truly enjoy the city outdoors. From  ice skating in the open air  to  day trips just outside the city  (a wintery and contemplative walk in Versailles' garden can, for example, be lovely in January), take advantage of whatever clear days you may have.
• Do some Parisian shopping. Recovering from their holiday excesses, Parisians flood the streets and well-heated terraces to reunite with friends, and, of course,  to hit the winter soldes  (sales) , a French ritual that borders on cultish. For shopping addicts, January is definitely a great time to be in the City of Lights.

January Travel Tips

There are a few ways to ensure your trip this month is both memorable and minimally stressful.

• Take advantage of low-season prices. Since this is low season in Paris, you should be able to get a good deal on flights in January, especially if you reserve tickets and packages at least two or three months ahead of your trip. 
• Avoid Paris if you aren't a cold-weather person.  If you dislike cold and wet weather ,  enjoy lots of sunny outdoor activities like picnics and boating, and prefer to visit a city when it's at its most open and dynamic, you might want to consider visiting later in the year. 
• Some activities are best left to other times of year. While most major attractions stay open, some amenities and sights are less attractive in the late winter period.   For example, you'll certainly still able to take a boat cruise on the Seine, but with icy winds coming off the river, it won't likely be as pleasant. 
• Since the days remain shorter in January, you'll have less time for day trips and other outdoor adventures. Of course, this gives you the perfect excuse to explore the city's excellent nightlife, from trendy cocktail bars to wine bars where you can enjoy a simple glass alongside a platter of delicious local cheeses. It's also a good excuse to linger indoors in cozy tearooms, sipping delicious brews and tasting French pastries. Life is hard, right?

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• France Tours
• France Travel Guide
• When to Visit France

France in January: A Relaxing Winter Retreat

• ~ mins read

January might be colder than the other months but a visit to France in January can be the most heart-warming winter holiday. Whether you dream of a skiing adventure in the Alps, a stroll along the spectacular French Riviera, or cozying up in cafés and indulging in pain au chocolat , visit France ! Aside from the unparalleled beauty of the country, January also brings post-holiday bargains on flights and accommodation.

France Weather in January

January might be the coldest month in Paris, but, fortunately, the weather varies widely depending on where you are going. You will probably encounter average temperatures of 6°C, lots of drizzly rain in the capital and surroundings, a snowier climate in the mountainous areas, milder temperatures along the coast, and even some warm, sunny days, with highs around 14°C in southern France.

For a seasonal overview, have a look at our guide on the best time to visit France .

Weather in France in January - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit france in january.

France welcomes visitors with breathtaking landscapes and memorable things to do all year-round, but if you decide to spoil yourself with a French winter escapade , these are the best reasons to visit the country in the first month of the year.

• Fewer crowds and better prices: December through early January is considered the low season in France. Chilly but quiet, this month will show you a relaxed France, without crowds of curious tourists everywhere and with very friendly prices.
• Shopping: Just like most European countries, France hosts a fun winter sale from mid-January to mid-February, being a perfect excuse for a fancy Champs-Élysées shopping session.
• Skiing in the Alps: The French Alps welcome adventurous travelers who want to hit the slopes in style, with exceptional ski trails, heart-stirring scenery, and welcoming resorts.
• Relaxing winter retreats: France awaits you with one of the best spa towns — Vichy, beautifully located in the mountainous Auvergne region . Pamper yourself, enjoy the hot springs, and warm up with tasty food paired with French wine.

Where to Go and What to Do

There are so many remarkable places and fun things to do in this gorgeous country , but if you're excited about winter vacations, here are the best places to visit in France in January.

For the ultimate cultural experience, explore Paris , for its sensational museums, galleries, and impressive historic buildings. Many of these museums are even free to visit. Those of you who love ice skating can enjoy the rinks that stay set up well into January, like Champ de Mars and at the Grand Palais in Paris.

At the same time, winter sports wizards and newbies will fall in love with a trip to the French Alps. Choose, for example, Val Thorens, the highest ski resort in Europe, or Courchevel, with its chic boutiques, and indulge in all the spectacular landscapes, fun winter activities, and relaxing opportunities.

Meanwhile, you can visit the French Riviera that is home to sublime sea views, lavish hotels, and mild Mediterranean weather. Great to relax and, if you are adventurous, enjoy the clear and crisp winter days hiking French Riviera’s gorgeous trails, like the stunning route above Èze-village or the Baou above St-Jeannet with superb views over the Var Valley, Antibes, and surroundings.

From bustling cities with numerous historical landmarks to majestic villages, and rolling vineyards, France offers curious visitors everything they need for an amazing trip, and it's the most visited country on the planet. When planning your trip, keep in mind that the weather in southern France in January is milder, so if you want to avoid the cold, this might be your destination.

Check out our travel guide on how many days to spend in France to plan your holiday. You can also make an itinerary that suits your taste for a customized trip to France . Get in touch with our travel experts to get started.

But, whatever destination you decide to explore, pampering your taste buds with the renowned cuisine and indulging in some of the most exquisite wines in the world will boost your visit to France in January .

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All You Need to Visit France

Paris in January: a complete guide to attractions and events

Paris in January offers a unique experience. Just like any other time of the year, but with winter charm.

The weather can be cold, with average temperatures ranging from 3° to 9° Celsius, occasional rain, and hopefully some snowfall.

The weather in Paris at this time of the year is foggy gray, with brief sunshine and cozy cold if you wear good clothes. Its ambiance remains, as always, movie-like.

Advantages of January in Paris? Sure, it’s a relatively quiet month. Eiffel Tower and Louvre without endless queues? Of course! January allows you to enjoy the city’s iconic attractions without the crowds that invade the city during the high season.

In addition, January also offers exciting events and activities. Art exhibitions, concerts, festivals… A wealth of experiences are the order of the day in Paris amid its winter charm.

The Weather in January in Paris

January is considered the coldest month in Paris , so low temperatures are almost inevitable. It is best to prepare for cold and cloudy days with temperatures between 2 and 6 degrees Celsius.

The best thing for this climate is to dress in layers , because when you enter a restaurant or museum, it is usually warmer, not like in other places like New York where it’s too hot, and you want to stay in a T-shirt, but if you want to take off your coat, scarf…

In addition, the chances of rain in January are high, and snow is also possible (occasionally), so carrying an umbrella may be a good option. And Wellington boots, Hunter type or you can buy an Aigle, which is the brand that everyone uses here.

Despite the cold temperatures, January sees a gradual increase in daylight hours, allowing you to explore the city with more and more sunshine as the month progresses.

One last factor to note about winter in Paris is that it can bring very cold winds. When planning your visit on this date, it is best to focus on indoor visits, such as museums, galleries, cafes, exhibitions, etc.

What to Wear

Paris in January requires keeping warm and comfortable to explore the city without preventable mishaps. As they say in Scotland, “There is no bad weather but bad clothes .” Here are some tips for this winter month.

First of all, layers are essential to adapt to temperature variations throughout the day.

A comfortable base layer is best, such as thermal T-shirts and tights or leggings if your legs are very cold, followed by a long-sleeved shirt or sweater, followed by a warm jacket that can be easily removed as you transition between indoor and outdoor activities.

Hands and neck can be particularly sensitive to the cold, so it is advisable to wear gloves and scarves . Being the city of fashion, it is advisable not to be out of place and choose neutral colors, which combine easily, to be in tune with the photos.

An umbrella is another must-have in Paris in January . While heavy rains are not common during this month, light drizzle can be expected, and an umbrella will keep us dry and comfortable as we stroll the city streets.

In summary:

• Thermal clothing, long-sleeved shirts, and a warm jacket.
• Waterproof shoes, such as waterproof boots or leather or goretex shoes.
• Gloves, scarf, hat, for extra warmth.
• Umbrella for those unexpected drizzles.

January Special Events

January is a great month to visit Paris, as the city offers a variety of events and experiences with fewer crowds and short lines at popular attractions.

Paris Fashion Week , in its winter edition, takes place at the end of January and showcases the latest trends from both established and emerging designers. The schedule and locations may vary and be distributed throughout the city.

The Paris Men’s Fashion Week will be held from Tuesday, January 16, to Sunday, January 21. The haute couture will be held from Monday, January 22, to Thursday, January 25. *These dates change every year

Paris Cocktail Week is another typical January event. It usually lasts seven days and offers a unique opportunity to try innovative cocktails at reduced prices in participating bars and bistros.

Special events are also offered to learn more about the art of cocktail making.

Although Christmas markets in Paris begin in December, some continue until early January. Strolling through these festive markets and discovering handicrafts, delicacies, and decorations while enjoying a cup of mulled wine can be an excellent plan.

One of the largest markets, La Défense, usually remains open until shortly after New Year’s Day.

In early January, Paris celebrates Epiphany, known as La Fête des Rois in France. The tradition is to share a Galette des Rois, a delicious puff pastry filled with almond cream.

The trick is to find the trinket or “fève” inside the cake: according to tradition, whoever finds it will be crowned king or queen of the day.

Shopping in Paris

January in Paris is a shopping paradise, marked by the start of its famous winter sales ( soldes ) , where discounts of up to 70% can be found on luxury, designer, high street, and department store brands alike.

TIP : if there is a particular brand that you like or are planning to buy, become a member or customer by registering on their website. In France, there are “Ventes Privées,” which are just before the sales, for people who are already “customers.” There are usually special discounts, and they are the first to shop.

The iconic Galeries Lafayette , located in the 9th arrondissement, is known for its stunning art nouveau architecture and houses more than 3,500 brands. A veritable maze of designer boutiques and gourmet food sections with leading French and international brands.

. By the way, if shopping doesn’t interest you, these galleries have impressive architecture, and from the top floor, you can enjoy magnificent views of Paris.

Another must-see shopping destination is the Marais district . Known for its trendy boutiques and quaint cafes, the Marais boasts an eclectic mix of vintage and avant-garde design and up-and-coming talent.

In addition, if you like makeup or skincare, you will find fantastic French and foreign brands here.

If you like to go shopping and find everything in one place, you can also visit the Printemps Galleries, they are all over Paris, but the most recommended are the ones in front of Lafayette Haussmann, they have fabulous views of Paris . And you can eat or have a drink on the top floor overlooking the Eiffel Tower.

Speaking of shopping malls, you must visit Samaritaine and Le Bon Marché. I love these two places, but I have to win the lottery to be able to go shopping without problems 😉

With regard to the January sales, it is important to keep in mind that they usually last from four to six weeks, so it is essential to plan your trip accordingly to make the most of it if that is your objective.

Outdoor activities

During your visit to Paris in January, you can enjoy various outdoor activities suitable for the cold weather.

Ice skating : there are several rinks to take advantage of this attraction in Paris. The locations usually change every year, although I try to keep the posts updated, I recommend you to stop by the tourist office and find out where they will put the ice skating rinks this year.

It is worth mentioning that these rinks usually have skate rentals available, so you can easily join the fun without having to bring your own skates (which is not very practical when it comes to packing your luggage).

Winter walks : With its stunning architecture and beautiful parks, Paris is perfect for winter walks. Strolling along the Seine, through the cobblestone streets of Montmartre, or through the unique Marais district is like being the protagonist of a fable.

In addition, the Tuileries or Luxembourg Gardens, the shop windows of the Champs Elysées, and the various commercial and gastronomic points of the city invite you to walk around and marvel at its attractions.

As a general recommendation, it is always advisable to wear comfortable shoes and keep warm to fully enjoy these picturesque areas.

Sightseeing in Paris

January is a good time for sightseeing in the main spots of Paris, as the city’s main attractions are less crowded, and the cooler weather adds a touch of magic to the atmosphere. Some recommendations to visit:

Louvre Museum : World famous, this museum is home to thousands of artistic masterpieces, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. It is advisable to buy your ticket in advance and consider a guided tour to make the most of the tour.

Eiffel Tower : no trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower. We recommend taking the elevator to the top to enjoy breathtaking views of the City of Light. Its night lighting, a photographic pearl.

Notre Dame Cathedral : It and its surroundings are fundamental points of Paris. Framed by the Seine River, its beauty and architectural complexity are impressive and admirable.

Try to visit the Cathedral on the weekend around noon; from 10 o’clock, the little stalls of the Seine begin to come alive. They are perfect for buying souvenirs, taking pictures, or just strolling through a picturesque place.

Latin Quarter: The lively and iconic Latin Quarter, full of charming cafes, bookstores and historic buildings, allows you to admire Parisian life and explore hidden passages of Paris, offering a fascinating window into the city’s past.

Palais Garnier : the world of opera and ballet shines in the impressive Palais Garnier. You can take a guided tour to learn about the history of the building or attend a performance for a truly unforgettable experience.

Tip : if you like Japanese food, you will find many Japanese and Asian restaurants around the Opera area. One of my favorite places to eat ramen, perfect for warming up in January, is Kodawari Ramen Tsukiji.

Cruise on the Seine River : A panoramic cruise opens a new possibility for the senses to perceive the city. Several options are available, from simple sightseeing trips to luxury dinner cruises.

If you visit the Seine at noon with its stalls, I recommend you take the cruise at sunset or in the evening to see the illuminated monuments.

Other Paris museums : The Paris Museum Pass gives you access to many other popular attractions, such as the Musée d’Orsay, which houses an impressive collection of Impressionist works of art. Use the pass to explore a variety of Parisian museums and cultural sites at your own pace.

More indoor activities in Paris

During January, Paris can be pretty cold and rainy, so it is essential to find enjoyable indoor activities to enjoy. Fortunately, there is no shortage of options for spending a pleasant day indoors while still experiencing the magic of the City of Light.

A classic Parisian experience is to attend a cabaret show at the iconic Moulin Rouge .

Known for its performances, impressive costumes, and lively atmosphere, the Moulin Rouge offers an unforgettable night of entertainment. A must: book tickets in advance, as this popular show tends to sell out quickly.

On a rainy day, nothing is more quintessentially Parisian than spending some time in one of the city’s countless cozy cafés. Relax with a hot drink and a good book, or just watch the world go by outside.

Some cafes even offer board games , poetry readings, manga cafes, or live music ; it is impossible to get bored in Paris.

Lodging in Paris

To make the most of your visit to Paris, it is essential to choose the right accommodation. The balance between location, proximity to points of interest, and lodging offers is key. Here are some recommendations:

7th arrondissement : this area is an excellent choice for first-time visitors, as it is home to the Eiffel Tower. The hotel offer is wide, from the Hôtel Regent’s Garden – Astotel for a mid-range option to the Hotel Pilime for a budget option.

Both hotels are within walking distance of the main tourist attractions.

Saint Germain-des-Prés : for those looking for accommodation in a place with nightlife, Saint Germain-des-Prés is the perfect place. This charming area offers a mix of cafes, cocktail bars, restaurants, art galleries and boutiques.

Le Marais : Le Marais is an excellent choice for a more authentic Parisian atmosphere. With its historic architecture, trendy boutiques and vibrant nightlife, this neighborhood offers a unique experience. An excellent option to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Place de la Concorde : Staying in this area provides easy access to Paris’ main attractions.

Place de la Bastille : for those interested in experiencing the nightlife in Paris, staying near Place de la Bastille is a great option. This area is known for its vibrant bars, nightclubs and live music venues.

It is the perfect place for those looking to enjoy the energetic nightlife of Paris.

Versailles : if the goal is to visit the Palace of Versailles as much as possible, staying nearby can be very useful to make the most of the visit. Several hotels are nearby, and a guided palace tour is highly recommended.

Paris is one city and many cities at once and has a variety of neighborhoods and accommodation options to suit the tastes and budgets of every traveler. Finding the one that best suits our trip is essential for everything to go smoothly.

Some cheaper options may be to stay in the area of the Defense, the area is good, you have the line one that takes you to the Arc de Triomphe, the Opera or the Louvre Museum directly in less than half an hour.

Another cheaper option is the Gare du Nord area; we stayed here once. The area is not the best in the world, but that’s okay too. Of course, it is best not to look like a tourist or carry your camera outside. This area does not have a good reputation.

TIP : when looking for accommodation, make sure it is close to a subway line so you can move around the city comfortably.

During your stay in Paris, it is an excellent opportunity to explore the surrounding area through day trips. The city has excellent connections to many destinations, and the low tourist season will make visiting nearby places more pleasant.

Disneyland Paris : This is a magical choice, especially if the trip includes children or the young at heart. The charming theme park, located just 32 km (20 miles) east of Paris, is accessible by train or bus.

Visiting during January potentially means fewer crowds, making your experience even more enjoyable. Important: book tickets in advance and plan your itinerary.

Mont-Saint-Michel : an impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site, this architectural marvel, and the surrounding bay offer a landscape of undeniable beauty.

It is the second most visited monument in France, after the Eiffel Tower. Of course, in January, it is cold, and it can rain, but the worst thing is the wind. We visit Mont Saint Michel about 10 or 11 times; I’m not exaggerating; every time someone from our family or friends comes to visit us, they want to go.

I don’t know if we were there in January, but in December, we were (twice), and it was quite cold and windy, even though I am not one to suffer from the cold.

Travel time from Paris is approximately 4 hours, but it is well worth it. Another option is to spend the night there, but the truth is that there is not much to do. However, if you have good weather and you like night photography, it is perfect.

Read here how to get to Mont St Michel from Paris .

Loire Valley Castles : this region is home to a wealth of castles, including the charming Château de Cheverny, the beautiful Château de Chambord, and the impressive Château de Chenonceau.

Guided tours of these castles can be booked and often include regional wine-tasting activities.

Read here about how to visit the Loire Châteaux from Paris .

Travel tips

Visiting Paris in January can be a wonderful experience. To make it so, here are some final tips and a general recapitulation of what has been said so far.

Be prepared for the weather : January in Paris can be cold and cloudy, with temperatures ranging from 2 to 6 degrees Celsius. Snow is occasional but unlikely to stick to the ground.

Coats, gloves, and a scarf to keep you comfortable are essential. It is also a good idea to bring an umbrella to protect you from the occasional rain.

Dress in layers : Layering is essential to adapt to fluctuating temperatures throughout the day. A base layer, sweater, or a long-sleeved shirt and a warm jacket usually form an unbeatable combo. Comfortable footwear would be the finishing touch to ensure comfort.

3. Benefits of traveling outside the high season : January is considered a low season for tourism in Paris. This means fewer crowds, shorter lines, and potentially lower prices for lodging.

In addition, on the first Sunday of the month, there are many free museums and attractions, in some you have to book as in the Palace of Versailles, but it’s free the first Sunday of this month.

Ideal for visiting popular sites such as the Louvre Museum and the Eiffel Tower.

4. Explore indoor attractions : With the cooler weather, it’s a good time to visit the city’s many indoor attractions, such as museums, galleries, and historic sites. Important: research opening hours and plan your itinerary accordingly.

5. Plan to attend special events and festivals that interest you. January in Paris offers unique events such as the ice skating rink at the Hotel de Ville and Paris Fashion Week.

6. Purchase travel insurance : Unpredictable weather and possible plan disruptions make having travel insurance a smart choice. It can cover unexpected illnesses, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen circumstances.

It is always advisable to research and choose the policy that best suits your needs.

Now, with these tips in place, making the most of your visit to Paris in January and experiencing all the charm and beauty the city offers is just a matter of getting organized.

Plan Your Trip to Paris

• Everything you need to know about Paris
• What to bring to Paris, guide to packing your suitcase

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Hi there! I’m Vero! I’ve always loved traveling! I have been living in France since 2018. And traveling around this awesome country. I love road trips and traveling by van, and also, some comfy getaways :) Check out: Touristear.com

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The 10 Best Reasons To Visit Paris in January for a Magical Trip

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Paris is magical in the winter. Find out what to do in Paris in January in this complete guide!

I did not enjoy Paris the first time I visited. I visited in August and was overwhelmed by the crowds, sketchy street vendors, heat, and expanse of the city. I was also what I call a “ Checklist Traveler ” – I had a list of all the things I needed to see & do and I spent the entire trip running around trying to satisfy that list, instead of actually enjoying the city.

Curious what your travel style is? Take the quiz here !

Being a “Checklist Traveler” in Paris is not good. Paris is massive with so many things to see, do, and experience. It is truly impossible to do all of what Paris offers in one trip – or even five trips. This gave me a lot of anxiety during my first visit because I felt like I wasn’t doing “enough”.

I always secretly wondered if I judged Paris fairly. Would I enjoy Paris a bit more now that I had more travel experience ?

Well, when I discovered I had enough miles with Delta to book roundtrip airfare to Paris this past January, I decided to go.

I quickly discovered that January is a good time to visit Paris. The weather is brisk but comfortable, the crowds are thinned out, and there are many unique seasonal attractions that you can fold into your adventure – along with the most popular attractions, too!

This guide only covers Parisian experiences unique to January and the other winter months. If you’re looking for more general itineraries, check out my 3-Day and 5-Day Paris Itineraries!

Read on to find out the best reasons to visit Paris in January!

What is the Weather in Paris Like in January?

In January, Paris is brisk and chilly, but quite manageable . I visited in early January and experienced weather ranging from 30 degrees Fahrenheit to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. It was overcast most days, slightly humid, with no more than a light breeze.

You can see the Eiffel Tower shrouded in fog below. That picture was taken on the coldest day I was in Paris, where it hovered around freezing all day. She’s beautiful even with the blanket of fog!

The sun rises later and sets earlier in the winter so daylight hours are roughly about 8 am to 6 pm.

I find that I get hot when I travel – probably from walking so much! – so I actually prefer to travel in chillier weather. I find that it’s easier to warm up than cool down.

What Outfits to Wear in Paris in January

If you’re visiting Paris in January, outerwear is the most important piece of your wardrobe .

For me, I found that I was most comfortable with a puffy parka, scarf, and snow boots when the temperature was 30-45 deg F. I liked the length of the parka because it helped keep my legs warmer. If you don’t have a parka, I would recommend wearing jeans with some kind of base layer, like leggings. Anything from a winter hat to a winter headband worked for me in this weather.

When it warmed up above 45 degrees, I was comfortable with just a peacoat and a scarf. On days like this, a warming headband was comfortable enough for me.

For my base layers, I typically had a light to medium sweater and jeans. On the colder days, I wore a base layer underneath my jeans, as well. Keep in mind, though – I was coming from Houston, so my tolerance to cold is a bit less than those visiting from the northern states!

I was worried that wearing a puffy parka would make me look like an American tourist but it was actually a very common sight. If you want to blend in with the locals, the puffy parka and peacoat combination works perfectly. You’ll definitely stand out if you’re wearing ski jackets – especially Columbia or North Face!

I recommend you get an anti-theft handbag or backpack. With the thicker outer layers, you won’t be able to feel if someone is going for your handbag – and pickpockets are common in Paris! These are some of my favorite items:

My biggest recommendation is to wear layers, bring two pairs of warm footwear, and have two different coats . Options are important – especially if one option needs time to dry out!

Where to Stay in Paris in January

The Metro system in Paris is amazing, so the main recommendation I have is to stay near a Metro line . However, I think being in a central, walkable location is even more important in the winter months – you want everything convenient if possible!

That was even more important for me during my January visit to Paris. During my trip, France was in the midst of their longest transportation strike, ever – lasting two months and crippling most public transportation in the country, including Metro lines. This meant I had to walk everywhere or spend $$ on expensive Ubers. I walked almost everywhere.

You will be tempted to stay near the Eiffel Tower, but I would encourage you to pick a different neighborhood . The Eiffel Tower isn’t near many other attractions. A much more central location is Saint Germain or any other neighborhood near the Louvre. This will make almost everything a 30 minute walk or less, including the Eiffel Tower.

Find out more recommendations for where to stay in Paris here .

Without further ado, here are the 10 best reasons to visit Paris in January!

Enjoy the best of paris without the crowds.

I do not like crowds. I do not like tourists. I do not like lines. Considering Paris receives 30 million visitors per year , it can be a very overwhelming experience for someone like me.

I LOVE off season and shoulder season travel because you get to miss the crowds. Paris is no different! No, Paris won’t be empty in January, but you won’t feel crushed by hordes of tour groups and annoying tourists with selfie sticks.

I found that my January visit to Paris left me feeling somewhat relaxed. Paris is not a relaxing city normally, so I thought that was pretty fantastic. If you want to experience the magic of Paris without the crowds, January is a great time to visit.

Have the Rare Opportunity to See Paris Covered in Snow

Did you know it’s uncommon for it to snow in Paris? Paris usually only has 15 snowy days per year – and it’s usually just a dusting!

Can you imagine catching Paris on a rare snowy day? You can see how lovely the city is when shrouded in snow here .

Celebrate the New Year in Paris

Ring in the New Year in the City of Lights! I arrived on New Year’s Day around 6 am and it was clear that many revelers were still partying while my driver wound through Paris.

Party-goers line the Champs Élysées to catch a parade, celebrate in the street, and see the Eiffel Tower sparkle from a distance. There are so many options for celebrating NYE in Paris – check them out here !

Enjoy the Christmas Decorations

I was pleasantly surprised to find Christmas decorations throughout Paris the entire time I was there. Twinkling street lights, building displays, and shopping windows glowed with Christmas lights. Even the famous Ladurée decorated!

You absolutely must visit the Galeries Lafayette . This is a huge shopping mall that, during the holiday season, has a huge Christmas tree. You have to stand in line to get up close it but it is absolutely worthwhile. The outside of the Galeries Lafayette has window displays, as well – so if you’re looking for something festive, this is a must-see!

Stroll Through Christmas Markets Without the Crowds

Since Paris is still twinkling with Christmas lights, it’s reasonable to expect to find the famous European Christmas Markets in January, too!

I’ll be honest: I found the Parisian Christmas markets to be somewhat gimmicky. The items for sale were touristy and repetitive. I would never recommend that you travel to Paris FOR their Christmas markets – definitely go to a city more famous for them! – but if you’re visiting Paris in January, you may as well check them out.

Street food, hot drinks, carnival rides, and gift stands line the Christmas markets. There were three that I found: the Tuileries, the Trocadero (near the Eiffel Tower), and Saint Germain . The Tuileries was definitely the most grand.

Savor The Many Wonderful Museums

I am not much of a museum person but I think the best time to visit a museum is during the chillier months. Because Paris has so many wonderful museums, they are often packed with crowds. If museums are your thing, what’s better than enjoying them on a drizzly winter day without all the tourists?

If museums also aren’t your thing, I still would encourage you to check out the Louvre. I visited it in just about two hours and really enjoyed it. Find out how to see the Louvre in just two hours here !

Warm Up With Decadent Parisian Hot Chocolate

Ah, hot chocolate in Paris. Called chocolat chaud in French, Parisian hot chocolate is nothing like your Swiss Miss back home. It is thick, decadent, warm, and filling. I’ve only ever tasted something similar to it in Prague , despite searching high and low for it.

Truthfully, this is essentially warm chocolate ganache. Delicious!

I had hot chocolate literally every day in Paris. I loved curling up in a cozy cafe with a great book and escaping the chilly January air with a hot chocolate.

Find a complete guide to Parisian hot chocolate here !

Enjoy the Warm, Decadent French Foods

Don’t you just love warming up with a steaming bowl of soup on a chilly day?

French food is rich, decadent, and delicious – and absolutely more enjoyable in January.

You would never want French onion soup in the heat of July, would you? But imagine on a chilly winter day … French onion soup, Beef Bourguignon, Gratin Dauphinois, even a Croque Monsieur are all extra delicious when the air is crisp and chilly.

I found that I could really appreciate French cuisine when it was cold. I had visited in August and always felt too hot to eat much more than fruit & cheese. Visiting in January was great for the Foodie in me!

Stay Warm in a Cooking Class

Speaking of food, why not learn how to cook this delicious French cuisine?

Personally, I’ve taken three different cooking classes in Paris: macarons, French desserts, and French breads. I personally prefer baking, but there are certainly cooking classes as well.

I’ve taken classes at Cook’n With Class Paris and Le Foodist and I personally prefer Cook’n With Class. The instructors feel a bit more approachable and the class less serious so I had more fun there.

Warm up with a hot kitchen and learn a skill to impress your friends back home!

Shop the Rare Parisian Sales in January

Sales are regulated by the French state so they only occur twice per year. Known as les soldes , they serve as a way to clear out old merchandise and make room for the next season.

The prices drop throughout the four-week sale season, so visiting more towards the mid-point will help strike a balance between price and availability. If you’re looking to refresh your wardrobe or bathroom with high-end French wares, you can find out more about les soldes here !

One of the best reasons to visit Paris in January is to experience Paris more peacefully

I have visited Paris in both the summer and the winter and I absolutely preferred Paris in January. The magical Christmas lights, the decadent food, and experiencing the city without the crowds helped me fall in love with Paris. I whole-heartedly recommend visiting Paris in January.

Have you been? Do you have any recommendations? Comment below!

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Paris In January: Weather, Things To Do And Travel Tips

By: Author Christine Rogador

Posted on Published: October 16, 2023  - Last updated: January 9, 2024

Are you planning to visit Paris in January and looking for the best guide? You’ve come to the right place!  While many people visit Paris during the warm, bright months, the city has a distinct and enticing charm in January.

During the winter, the city takes on a distinct identity, giving a calmer, more personal experience to those who dare to explore its streets that’s why it’s easily one of the best times to visit Paris.

In this piece, we’ll explore the allure of Paris in January and offer advice on how to make the most of your winter visit.

Things you'll find in this article

Temperatures in Paris in January

Rain/snow in paris in january, wind in paris in january, day/light in paris in january, what to wear in paris in january, philéas lazare & spa, hotel le six, 1. take advantage of the winter sales, 2. go ice skating, 3. witness the festival of lights, 4. drink a hot chocolate in paris cafes, 5. check out paris museums in january, 6. attend the paris fashion week, 7. ride a cruise on the seine river in paris, paris in january is for cold-weather people, you’ll have more time to explore the city’s nightlife, beware of pickpockets, pack the important clothes, travel tips and resources.

RELATED READ:

• Paris In February
• Paris In March
• Paris In April
• Paris In May
• Paris In June
• Paris In July
• Paris In August

What is the Weather like in Paris in January

In Paris, January marks the coldest month of the year. Paris weather is also notably unpredictable not only in January but all year. 

Don’t be shocked if the weather prediction changes repeatedly during the day and you have to slip into a café for tea to avoid an unexpected downpour.

In January, temperatures in Paris range from 1 to 2 degrees Celsius to 5 to 6 degrees Celsius. The early winter has passed, the holiday hype has faded down, and the New Year ushers in steadily longer days.

With each passing year, there is a little more time for relaxing being outside. If you want to take a trip to Paris when you can actually kick back and unwind January is the best season to go because the city’s ambiance is considerably lower back.

Snow is uncommon, but when it does fall, it is breathtaking.  Because Paris snowfall averages 2.5 cm and evaporates rapidly, you’ll normally only see a modest amount on the ground – so enjoy the vistas before the snow vanishes.

During January, the city may see sustained high winds.  Storms having strong winds and heavy rain may occur on occasion.  On those days, you’ll wish to visit an art gallery or enjoy hot tea in a cafe.

In January, the average number of daylight hours in Paris is 8 to 9 hours. Throughout the day, you can expect to see overcast or partially cloudy conditions nearly seventy-five percent of the time.

French ladies have a highly refined style in the winter, as well as throughout the rest of the year. In Paris, you won’t see puffy ski coats or brightly colored winter footwear as you might in the United States.

Layers, long coats, exquisite accessories, and muted hues define Parisian winter style. Colors pop out to enhance and chase away the winter blues on Parisian women wearing dark skinny jeans along with a black coat.

• Long-sleeve undershirts
• Ankle Boots
• Leather boots

Layering, staying warm, and enjoying the city’s trendy aura are the keys to dressing for Paris in January. Pack warm base layers, fashionable jackets, and comfy shoes.

Accessorize to add interest to your ensembles, and don’t be hesitant to try new designs and neutral hues. By following these guidelines, you’ll be ready to discover the city while looking stylish and feeling at ease.

Where to Stay in Paris in January

The city is less congested, decked up in holiday lights, and there’s a sense of enchantment in the air. But where should you stay on your winter vacation in Paris? Explore both affordable and luxury lodging choices to discover the ideal location to stay in Paris this January.

Budget Hotel in Paris

View this post on Instagram A post shared by @lindo_d

Location: 24, Rue d’Amsterdam, 9th arr., 75009 Paris, France

Philéas Lazare & Spa Hotel, situated in Paris’s 9th district, is just a 15-minute stroll from the Galeries Lafayette. It also has a bathhouse and a fitness center, in addition to a 24-hour desk, and baggage storage.

All rooms have air conditioning and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, as well as a safety deposit box. Toiletries are free and a hairdryer is provided in the private bathroom. In their rooms, guests are offered complimentary tea. The hotel lounge offers self-service food.

Classic Double Room For 2 (1 night): $153.91 Price + $6.12 taxes and charges

Popular Facilities:

• Non-smoking rooms
• Facilities for disabled guests
• Fitness center
• Family rooms
• 24-hour front desk

Luxury Hotel in Paris

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jei Lai (@jeilai)

Location: 14 Rue Stanislas, 6th arr., 75006 Paris, France

Hotel Le Six is an elegant boutique hotel located in the center of Paris. The Luxembourg Gardens including the Notre-Dame-des-Champs train stop are an 8-minute walk away.

Suites at Hotel Le Six have a flat-screen television with satellite channels and also feature air conditioning. Each offers a modern design and a separate bathroom with quality toiletries, bathrobes, and slippers.

The attractive breakfast area serves a buffet breakfast. In the evening, visitors may unwind in one of the lounge bar’s recliners while sampling a beverage from the extensive menu.

Suite with Sofa Bed For 2 (1 night): $511.14 Price + $6.12 taxes and charges

• Airport shuttle
• Room service

Things to Do in Paris in January

While the weather may be cold, the city comes alive with a distinct charm and a calmer, more relaxed mood. The following are some of the greatest things to do in Paris in January.

Though things have begun to alter in recent years, January is historically and legally one of only two months when shops offer January specials.

This translates to significant savings in many big department shops as well as tiny boutiques. The January deals typically begin in the 2nd week of January lasting two to three weeks. The French government determines the dates.

During the winter, Paris is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with artificial ice rinks in which you can warm yourself while being active and enjoying the outdoors.

Though certain of them shut with their individual Christmas markets, others remain open far into January. So, instead of staying indoors, get out, rent skates, and test your balance abilities while admiring this lovely city.

The Paris Botanical Gardens put on an incredible Festival of Lights spectacular. The gigantic lit plants, animals, and additional things in this Latin Quarter park will delight children.

Jardin des Plantes is also open throughout the day, where you may observe the animals in their natural state. The Festival of Lights takes place between November 13th and January 14th. Make sure you purchase your ticket in advance.

Café culture in Paris originated in the late nineteenth century. Designers, scholars, philosophers, authors, and political personalities gathered in Paris coffee cafes to talk about whatever they wanted.

While many of the greatest cafes in Paris are true local treasures with fantastic values, many of the well-known French cafés in Paris have higher prices, especially for beverages.

They may charge more since they are truly unique to the history and culture of Paris; it’s similar to paying more for Eiffel Tower views.

A half-day visit to a museum in Paris is ideal. It’s an excellent time of year for a trip to the Louvre Museum as well as other smaller museums.

If you want to visit a number of sites, consider purchasing a museum pass or a Paris city pass.  On days when it is anticipated to rain or when the weather is simply too chilly to appreciate outdoor attractions, you may visit the Pompidou Centre and other great Paris sites.

Paris Fashion Week is the event during which major fashion companies and designers present their ready-to-wear designs for the 2024-2025 season.

The basic fact is that getting into a fashion week occasion without an independent invitation is practically impossible. However, if one waits, there is always the chance of spotting a fashion icon or a celebrity.

Walking along the Seine River’s banks is always a nice idea, no matter what time of year it is. As early as January, musicians may be seen on the Pont Louis-Phillipe.

Another option to appreciate the Seine River and gain a new perspective on Paris is to take a Seine River cruise. Try scheduling it for sunset, when the Eiffel Tower is illuminated. It is simply amazing.

Travel Tips in Paris in January

Paris in January has a different, although equally intriguing, allure, with fewer crowds, reduced costs, and a beautiful winter mood. Here are some important travel tips to help you make the most of your winter getaway to the City of Love.

If you despise cold and rainy weather, love a variety of sunny outdoor activities such as picnics and boats, and prefer to visit a city when it is at its most open and vibrant, you should consider going later in the year.

You’ll get less time for day excursions and other outdoor activities in January because the days are still shorter.

Of course, this provides you the perfect opportunity to check out the city’s fantastic nightlife, which includes everything from fashionable cocktail lounges to wine bars where you can have an easy glass with a platter of delectable local cheeses.

Pickpocketing as well as simple stealing are nevertheless common in the winter. So remain attentive, pack only what is necessary for the day, and store your passport along with your credit cards in the hotel safe.

The weather in Paris in January may be unpredictable, so bring enough clothing to cover all eventualities. Because it can rain, bring a raincoat to avoid getting soaked.

Layering your clothing is essential. You should also carry a couple of heavy sweaters, wraps, thicker socks, an extra pair of gloves, a cap, and a nice pair of shoes that are comfy enough for those lengthy city walks.

Bringing an umbrella is also a smart idea, however, some hotels will give one if you ask for one.

Is it Worth it to Visit Paris in January?

January is the ideal post-holiday month for cultural discovery, wandering sans crowds, and visiting any of the top-notch museums and attractions.

The benefit of visiting Paris in January over the summer is that it is less congested. All of the interior things you’ll want to perform will have shorter lines. They will be less awkward because you won’t be baking in the sun.

Restaurant reservations are easy to make. The sales are underway, and the pace in January is noticeably slower.

Travel Insurance: I never leave home without travel insurance. My personal opinion is if you can afford to travel, you can afford to buy a travel insurance. All things can happen while on the road and you can never be too sure. And it's something that you'll be glad to have when you need it. For my preferred travel insurance, I use Safety Wing .

What To Wear: If you want some ideas on what to pack for France, check out this packing list guide for France .

Where To Stay: I personally use Booking.com for all my accommodations. Check out for their latest deals here .

Reading Resources: Check out our best reading resources here .

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries and lived in 4 continents in the last 10 years, including France. A self-proclaimed Francophile, I love everything France.

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Explore the Riviera

Nice in january: a travel guide.

Nice, the main city on the French Riviera, is usually known as a summer destination. However, the month of January is actually one of my favorite times around here!

The winter weather in Nice is mild and sunny, with temperatures usually hovering around 50°F during the day.

With low humidity and fewer crowds, a trip to Nice can be incredibly enjoyable during this time of year. Plus, since the tourist season has yet to begin, many deals on hotels can be found.

If you are thinking of visiting Nice in January, you’ve come to the right place.

Planning a trip to the South of France? Then make sure to follow my Instagram and join my Facebook group for the best tips, places, and hotels on the French Riviera. You can also get a custom itinerary made by me here or check out my travel guides for Nice, Monaco, Cannes, Antibes and Saint-Tropez.

What to expect

If you have come to Nice before during summer, you will notice that it is a different city in January (or even February !). The streets and restaurants are less crowded, and the atmosphere is much more laid back.

The locals are also usually quite friendly here, so you should have no problem making new friends.

You can expect to spend your days strolling along the Promenade des Anglais, taking in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, and exploring the colorful markets selling fresh produce from nearby farms.

During this time of the year, water activities are not really possible, but if you are an avid hiker or cyclist, you may find this to be the perfect season for taking in the sights of Nice.

Where to Stay

Nice has many good hotel options. Some of my favorites are Hotel Le Negresco , Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel , Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée , and Boscolo .

Things to do in Nice in January

Even with the lower temperatures, there is still a lot to do in Nice in winter. These are some of my favorite activities:

Walk along Promenade des Anglais

An afternoon stroll in the Promenade is an absolute dream during winter. Enjoy the sea views or sit down at one of the benches for some people-watching.

⛱️ Looking for the best places to eat, stay, and explore in Nice?

In my Nice Travel Guide , you will find all the best addresses, unique day trips, restaurants, hotels, and hidden gems in Nice. Planning your trip to the South of France has never been easier ❤️

Go on a food tour

Due to it’s Italian influence and its proximity to the sea, the food in Nice is quite unique. Think tons of fresh seafood, creamy pastas,, and delectable desserts. A food tour is an excellent way to get a taste of the region’s best dishes.

Go wine tasting

The region around Nice is known for its world-class wines, and a visit to the area wouldn’t be complete without indulging in some local varieties. There are plenty of vineyards offering wine tastings throughout the year.

Explore Vieux Nice

Vieux Nice is one of the oldest parts of the city and it’s full of beautifully preserved churches and buildings. The narrow streets are also lined with shops, cafes, and markets that make for a wonderful day of sightseeing.

Catch a show at the Opera de Nice

The famous Opera de Nice puts on shows all year round, featuring some of the most talented opera singers in the world. Treat yourself to a memorable night out and enjoy the magical atmosphere of a live performance.

Explore beautiful provençal villages

Villages like Saint-Paul de Vence , Tourrettes-sur-Loup, and Èze are all within a short drive from Nice and each offers its own unique charm. Go for a scenic walk or relax at one of the outdoor cafes in these beautiful little towns.

Shop at Marche Aux Fleurs

The Marche Aux Fleurs is one of Nice’s most iconic markets and it’s open year round. Shop for fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, local spices and so much more. The lively atmosphere makes it one of the city’s top attractions.

Monaco is just a short drive away from Nice and it’s definitely worth a visit. Head there for the day or stay overnight to explore the city, check out its famous casino, and get to know the local culture.

Travel Guide & FAQ

Is nice warm in january.

While the temperatures may be cooler than in summer, Nice enjoys mild winter weather and is usually quite pleasant during January. Average temperatures range from the high teens to low twenties Celsius (high 60s to low 70s Fahrenheit).

Can one swim in Nice in January?

You’d be surprised by how many locals still swim in the Mediterranean Sea in January – but it’s definitely not for everyone as the water will be cold.

Conclusion: Visiting Nice in January

That’s a wrap! january is a lovely time of year to visit Nice, especially if you’re looking for some mild winter weather and a different experience from the summer crowds.

With its beautiful walking paths along the coast, lively markets, museums, and nearby villages, it is guaranteed to be an unforgettable trip.

Oh! And if you are visiting the South of France soon, check out my travel guides , follow my Instagram and join my Facebook group for more hidden gems and travel tips. Happy travels!

Plan the perfect trip to the French Riviera

👗 Find all my favorite addresses in Nice on this travel guide.

📕 Get a personalized French Riviera itinerary here or check out my other travel planning services

🗺️ Book guided tours through Get Your Guide and Viator .

🛏️ Find the perfect hotel on Booking.com .

Continue reading:

• 15 Best Hotels in Nice, France for 2024
• 9 Best Walking Tours in Nice, France [2024]
• 27 Best Things to Do in Nice, France
• 24 Best Boutique Hotels in Nice in 2024
• 10 Best Food Tours in Nice, France [2024]

Camila Neves

Nice to meet you! My name is Cami and I am a full-time traveler and foodie. I live in Nice in the South of France and this blog is where I share my impressions and travel secrets.

Recent Posts

12 Best Things to do in Paris in January 2024+ Where to Stay, What to Pack & The Weather

Planning to travel to Paris in January but not sure how to plan your trip? This post will give you all the details from what to wear, and where to stay to what to do!

January may not be the best time of the year to visit Paris for most people but even with the low temperatures, Paris still has so much to offer at the start of the year.

Disclaimer:  This post might contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) should you choose to sign up for a program or make a purchase using one of our links. It’s okay – We love all of the products we recommend anyway, and you will too! Also, that commission helps us keep this awesome free blog up to date! You can read our  full disclosure here  for more details!

So if you want to escape the crowds and visit Paris in January, I am here to give you all the details you need to know.

Whether you need ideas on what to do in Paris in January, suggestions on where to stay, or what to even pack, I will share with you all the details you need to know before making your way to the French capital in January.

Before You Go, Here’s How to Plan Your Visit To Paris: Practical Quick Tips

WHERE TO STAY Best Eiffel Tower Views:  Hôtel Le Walt  (9.0) Luxury stay:  Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel  (8.2) Mid-range stay:  Hôtel Eiffel  (8.7) Budget Stay:  People – Paris Bercy  (8.9) Apartment Rental:  Résidence Charles Floquet  (9.1)  

BEST GUIDED TOURS Louvre Museum guided tour : (4.5/5) Seine River Dinner Cruise : (4.7/5) Montmartre Walking Tour : (4.8/5) Le Marais Walking Food Tour : (4.5/5) Versailles Guided Tour : (4.8/5) Eiffel Tower Guided Tour : (4.4/5) 

• Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
• Prepare your trip extensively with this Paris Travel guidebook .
• Don’t forget a universal travel adapter , a travel neck pouch , and comfortable walking shoes .
• Consider getting either the museum pass or the Paris city pass if you plan to visit many attractions. The city pass comes with free transportation and access to the hop-on-hop-off bus. You can read my Paris museum pass review to see if it’s right for you.
• Book this private transfer from CDG airport to Paris to avoid the hustle of figuring out how to get to Paris.

Psst… Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more. If you’re considering travel insurance for your trip, check out World Nomads .

Why Should You Visit Paris In January?

January is the quietest month of the year in Paris! The crowds that come with Christmas in Paris have disappeared, the days are so short, the temperatures are low and the skies are as gloomy and grey as misery! Paris in winter becomes a different place!

So with all that, why should you really travel to Paris in January?

Even with all that, Paris can never lose its charm of being one of the most beautiful cities in Europe .

While many people travel to Paris during January for various reasons, If you’re still questioning yourself about traveling to the city of love during this time, below are some reasons why you should book your flight ticket already!

Fewer crowds

There is no secret that Paris is one of the most visited places in the world which means you can expect a swarm of tourists, especially during summer.

Traveling to Paris in summer is obviously ideal but that means queuing for hours and hours at various attractions especially if you don’t know the secret tips to skip the long lines .

But during winter, since most people choose to stay away or opt for winter sun destinations , you’ll get to enjoy Paris fully without competing with a million other tourists!

Also, that means that you may not need to book way in advance for things like restaurants or even some hotels! Finally, you can be spontaneous in Paris.

Low rates on accommodation, flight fares, and activities

Since fewer people travel during the winter, many businesses suffer a bit! This means that the only way they can “entice” people to travel or even stay at their hotels and make some bit of money is by reducing fares!

By traveling to Paris in January, you’ll save a huge chunk of money if not 50 percent compared to what you would have spent if you traveled during the high season!

If I’ve helped you gather your confidence back about visiting Paris in January, now let’s look at other practical info that will help you plan your trip with ease.

Weather In January In Paris

January in Paris is the coldest month of the year! The sun rises late and sets really early which means that the days are also shorter.

Paris winter temperatures in January oscillate between 3° C (37 °F) low and 8° C (46 °F) high. The chances of rain are also high with the average rain being 46 millimeters (1.8 inches).

It’s also unlikely to snow in January but on rare occasions, it does!

Now that you know the Paris weather in January, let’s look at what to do, where to stay, what to pack, and what to wear in Paris in winter for an amazing trip.

What To Do In Paris In January

Unlike the usual things to do in Paris , here, I will be focusing on just the things that can only be done in January.

1. Shop till you drop during the winter sales

If you ever wanted to buy something in Paris but were always put off by the Price, January is a great time to get it as almost every shop offers discounts.

With discounts going up to 70%, sometimes 80, you can’t have a better time to go on a shopping spree in Paris than in January.

But don’t just show up at any time in January and think you’ll get the best deals! Through the official 3 weeks period of the winter sales, prices drop systematically.

At the beginning of the Soldes period (discount period), first shoppers get the best selection of items as you’d imagine (first come first serve) but also, the discount rate is still a bit low! Anywhere between 20-40 % .

But as time goes on, prices drop even much lower sometimes even reaching 80% but that means the items have also reduced.

So you have to decide what you prefer! Better items with a low discount or high discount with a few items to choose from! But regardless of when, you’ll be able to get some of the best deals on several items!

Yes, even French luxury brands like Dior, Chanel, Hermès, and so many others participate in the winter sales.

If you see the word “SOLDES” on the shop’s door, just know they’re offering discounts! So just pop in, browse and you might just get your favorite item at half the price.

2. Attend the Paris Festival of Lights

For an exciting night in Paris in January, attend the Paris Festival of Lights ( Festival des Lumières )! Every year usually from November to January, Jardin des Plantes lights up in a spectacular setting that amazes kids and adults alike.

The theme of the festival changes every other year but the general focus is the flora and fauna and sheds light on how we can protect the earth while telling a story through art and lights.

With shimmering sculptures of animals that change colors every now and then during the show in the alleys of the gardens, a visit to this incredible park is a must to be amazed by the artistic and creative concept behind the show.

Due to the popularity of this festival, it’s better to  buy your ticket on the official website  to skip the lines — trust me, it’s not fun queuing for so long when it is super cold outside.

While you can buy the ticket online, make sure that you choose the exact day and time slot you want to attend as it can’t be rescheduled.

3. Enjoy the Paris cocktail week

Do you love cocktails? If you answered yes, then you should travel to Paris in January!

With various bars participating in this event, you get a chance to taste different cocktails — both alcoholic and non-alcoholic to appreciate the creativity of various mixologists or bartenders.

If you’re wondering what makes Paris Cocktail Week different from other days where you can just enter a bar and request a cocktail, here is your answer.

During the cocktail week, some of the participating best cocktail bars offer two cocktails — 1 alcoholic, and 1 non for a special price to people who would like to try out their new cocktails.

All you have to do is book a ticket from the Paris Cocktail Week official website and choose a participating bar you’d like to drink at.

Disclaimer* You should be of legal drinking age and please drink responsibly!

4. Visit Paris’ Museums And Top Attractions

There is no better time to visit Parisian museums than in January! Visiting indoor attractions is a safety net to escape the chilly weather outside while still enjoying the beauty of these French monuments .

The best part is that you won’t compete for space with other tourists since few of them travel to Paris in January!

You’ll be able to take a proper picture of the Mona Lisa painting in the Louvre Museum without thousands of people hogging it.

So on days when it’s likely to rain or when the weather is just too cold to enjoy outdoor attractions, you can use that time to visit places like Orsay Museum, Pompidou Centre, the Opera, and some other hidden and popular attractions in Paris .

Pro tip* If you plan to visit various attractions in Paris, I’d advise you to buy this Paris city pass as it will help you save money while giving you access to almost all the major attractions.

But if you’re only into art and museums, then I’d recommend buying this Museum pass instead as it will give you access to all the Paris museums including the lesser-known ones.

Alternatively, if you think the Paris pass may not be worth it especially if you plan on just visiting a few places, then you can consider buying individual tickets. Below are some of the skip-the-line tickets you can buy online to save time.

• This skip-the-line ticket   to the Louvre museum or this guided tour of the Louvre to get the most out of your visit.
• The skip-the-line ticket  to the Orsay museum 
• Skip-the-line ticket to Centre Pompidou.
• You can check out more  skip-the-lines tickets here to save time looking for them.

You can also visit some of these free museums in Paris .

5. Go Ice Skating on an ice rink

During winter, Paris is adorned with many temporary ice rinks where you can warm up while staying active and enjoying the outdoors.

Though some of them close with their respective Christmas markets, some of them stay open even a bit beyond January.

So don’t just stay indoors, get out, hire skates, and test your balancing skills while enjoying this beautiful city.

Some of the ice rinks that stay open until the beginning of January include the ice rinks at Jardin des Tuileries, and Plaza Athénée which stays open till the end of January.

6. Visit some Christmas markets

Though most Christmas markets in Paris end in December, some stay open until the first few days of January.

If for some reason you were unable to be there in December, you can still catch some of them at the beginning of January.

Some of the Christmas markets in Paris that usually stay open till January include; the Tuileries Christmas Market which is next to the Louvre, the Paris Christmas Market at Hôtel de Ville, and Saint-Germain-des-Prés Christmas Market, and Place des Abbesses Christmas Market.

7. Experience the heat of the Men’s Paris Fashion Week

We all know the heat the Paris Fashion Week causes in the French capital. I mean it’s one of the biggest and most publicized events in the world in the fashion industry.

While you may not be able to attend since it’s an only-invite event, the vibe it creates is always felt in Paris.

8. explore the covered passages of Paris

Paris is famous for its beautiful covered passages and January is a perfect time to explore them, especially on days it rains heavily.

On top of escaping the harsh weather outside, you get to appreciate the architecture of the glass roofs that cover the passages as you hop from one shop to another.

There are several covered passages in Paris but the most beautiful ones to explore include the Galerie Vivienne which is the most iconic in Paris, Passage Jouffroy which has a hotel, museum, and a Paris nightclub in its walls, Passage Verdeau which is perfect for antique lovers, Jardin Du Palais Royal & the surrounding galleries to feel like royalty and so many others.

So, if you’re looking for rainy-day activities in Paris , exploring the covered passages is one of them.

9. Attend The Festival Du Merveilleux (Festival Of Wonder)

The Christmas festivities might be over but you can still enjoy some kind of festival even in the winter by attending the Festival of Wonder.

Just like its name suggests, Festival Du Merveilleux at the Musée des Arts Forains in Bercy is a true wonder that showcases various artists from storytellers, magicians, musicians, tap dancers, aerial silk dancers, puppeteers, funambulists to all sorts of artists to celebrate the festive season.

Besides enjoying the artistry work, you’ll be able to stroll through the charming village of Bercy and take in all its Christmas magic.

10. Attend an exhibition 

Being a place of art, Paris never runs out of exhibitions regardless of the time of the year and January is no exception.

With various museums, cultural centers, and art galleries always at work to present their best and new work, you can’t fail to find an exhibition to attend.

But since exhibitions keep changing year in, and year out, you can check out this website to find exhibitions in Paris slated for this January.

11. Watch A Cabaret Show

Looking for ideas on how to spend your evening in Paris in January? Then watching a cabaret show is a good idea!

Spend your evening being treated to all sorts of entertainment by watching creative musical and theatrical productions that consist of singing, dancing, and playing instruments while enjoying a French meal or even champagne.

There are a number of places where you can enjoy a Cabaret show but the most popular one has to be Moulin Rouge Paris followed by Le Lido Paris and Le Paradis Latin Cabaret .

However, since these shows book out or at least the best seating positions, you’re better off booking your ticket online to be on the safe side.

You can book this show at Mouline Rouge that comes with dinner or this show that just comes with Champagne.

If you prefer a more erotic show at Paris crazy horse, then I recommend booking this show instead that comes with a bottle of champagne.

And if you want to go where the locals go, then you’re better off going to Le Paradis Latin Cabaret. To reserve a seat there, you can book this ticket that comes with a French 3-course dinner or this ticket if you prefer just champagne .

12. Enjoy a Slice of Christmas at Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris is the most magical place in France ( well, at least to me)! And of course, Christmas is the most magical time of the year! So when you get a magical time and put it in the most magical place, the result is just beyond magical!

That’s what Disneyland Paris becomes during Christmas through the beginning of January during Disney’s Enchanted Christmas festival.

From amazing decorations, and Disney characters that are dressed perfectly in their best Christmas attire to a holiday-filled atmosphere, what more can you ask for?

Experience the most magical time in January by booking your Disneyland Paris ticket here to make sure that you don’t miss out on this special event.

Related Posts Best tips for visiting Disneyland Paris How to get from CDG airport to Disneyland Paris Best restaurants at Disneyland Paris

Now that you know all the best things to do in Paris in January, let’s look at where to stay and what to pack for Paris in January!

Where to Stay in Paris in January

There are so many places to stay in Paris but I’ll give you just a few options for all kinds of budgets.

Budget Accommodation

The people hostel – paris 12.

If you’re traveling on a budget, then I recommend staying at the People Hostel – Paris 12 . It might be called a hostel, but this place not only has dorm-like rooms but also private and family rooms for people who want to test out hostel life while still enjoying the privacy of a separate room.

Besides that, it is close to popular Paris attractions like Sainte-Chapelle, Louvre Museum, Opéra Bastille, and Notre Dame Cathedral. Honestly, you can’t ask for more for such a price while still being in the center of Paris.

And did I tell you how friendly the staff is? The rooms are also large enough and nothing beats the terrace where you can enjoy some epic views of Paris .

>>>   Check rates and availability on Booking.com   <<<

 Hotel des Arts

Located in the 9th arrondissement, Hotel des Arts is in my opinion the best budget-friendly hotel in Paris for people who are looking for a perfect location. Besides being centrally located, this hotel is close to Richelieu-Drouot, which leads directly to the Eiffel Tower!

The rooms are clean, the staff is friendly and you can’t beat the delicious continental breakfast they serve.

And for people who enjoy eating out and the Paris nightlife vibe, you’ll be happy to know that it’s just a few minutes’ walk from the famous Le Marais neighborhood.

Mid-range Accommodation

Maxim folies.

Maxim Folies is located in the heart of Paris in the 9th arrondissement. The rooms might be a bit smaller but the chic and clean design gives them a modern and comfortable feel.

And if you fancy a really good breakfast, you’ll be happy to know that Maxim Folies serves a full buffet breakfast every morning.

Hôtel Eiffel Turenne

If you prefer to stay near the Iconic Eiffel Tower, then  Hôtel Eiffel Turenne is the place to be . Besides being just 1 km away from the Iron Lady, the rooms of this hotel are cozy and chic.

Luxury Accommodation

Shangri-la hotel paris.

Nothing commands luxury like the Shangri-La Hotel Paris . With exquisite rooms and  stunning views of the Eiffel Tower , you’re in for a real treat if you stay at this hotel.

Being a former residence of Prince Roland Bonaparte, you’ll feel like royalty staying at this hotel.

With 2 restaurants overseen by a Michelin-starred chef, a high-end wellness center, and an indoor swimming pool, this hotel will be the perfect escape when the weather is too bad to go outside. If you have the budget, this is one of those places you have to experience in Paris.

Hotel Marignan Champs-Elysées

We have to agree that the Shangri-La Hotel Paris is really expensive and not many people might want to spend that much money! So if you still want to enjoy similar luxuries with a lower price tag, then I recommend staying at Hotel Marignan Champs-Elysées .

It is elegant in every way and the icing on the cake is the stunning Eiffel Tower view you get from the private terraces of some rooms. The hotel is also a few minutes from the Champs-Elysées and the Arc de Triomphe.

In summary, if you want affordable but extremely luxurious, then you won’t be disappointed by staying at Hotel Marignan Champs-Elysées.

However, if you can’t find what suits your needs from the hotels I recommended above, then you can check out my complete list of the best hotels in Paris with Eiffel Tower views or these cheap hotels in Paris if you’re on a budget.

But if you want a homey feel instead, you can either check out this list of best Airbnb with Eiffel Tower views , the best budget-friendly apartment rentals in Paris , or this list of the luxurious apartment Paris rentals if you prefer luxury.

Alternatively, you can use the interactive map below to browse the best place to stay in Paris while seeing the exact amount and customer reviews for each property using my favorite booking website, Bookings.com.

What To Wear In Paris In January

The trick about dressing up for winter is layering! Remember, January in Paris is super cold, so you’ll need to bring everything that will keep you warm.

Baselayer – Merino Wool Long-Sleeved Top

The first trick to staying warm in Paris in January is to wear a warm base layer and for that, nothing beats Merino wool long-sleeved tops. This merino wool long-sleeved top will not only keep you warm but also absorb any sweat to keep your skin dry. ( Here is the men’s version ).

However, just the top alone is not enough! You’ll need to keep your legs warm as well and in that case, I recommend buying this base-layer suit . (You can find the men’s version here )!

This base layer suit comes with both a long-sleeved top and bottom to keep your body insulated while roaming around Paris.

Mid-layer – Fleece/Sweater

For your mid-layer, I recommend taking a fleece. I like this Columbia fleece since it’s fairly priced yet good quality ( here is the men’s version ) but I know some people swear by this Patagonia fleece .

If you’re not a huge fan of fleece, then you can opt for this really warm and cute sweater . (You can find the men’s version here .)

Outer layer – Winter coat

For the outer coat, I’d recommend taking something warm while still being water and windproof. I love this winter jacket as it meets all the above qualities and it’s fashionable enough to meet Paris’ fashion sense. ( Here is the men’s version )!

And if you truly want to look like a Parisian, then this long trench coat will do the trick for you. (And here is the men’s version ).

Pro tip* As you choose the jacket to buy, I’d recommend sticking to dark colors like dark blue, dark green, or even black instead of shouting colors.

This means that you can wear your coat with absolutely anything and you won’t have the need to pack more than 1 jacket especially if you’re in Paris for a weekend or even a week or so.

Thermal leggings

If the idea of the 2-piece baselayer I talked about earlier didn’t catch your attention, then you can opt for this pair of thermal merino wool leggings . They’re warm, thick, and soft on the skin too. ( Here is the men’s version ).

Pair of Jeans

A pair of jeans or even 2 are a must-have when visiting Paris in January. When paired with a nice jacket (like the ones we looked at above) and a nice scarf, Jeans can look fashionable.

I love love these Levi’s high-waist skinny jeans ! They’re comfortable, look chic, and can look good on literally anyone. My only tip is to buy black or dark blue so that you can wear them with almost everything and recycle them as well.

Other Accessories to Pack for Paris in January

• Woolen Socks: These woolen socks won’t only keep you warm but will also keep your feet dry at all times. They’re a bit pricey compared to others but are worth every penny. But if you prefer something budget-friendly without compromising on quality, then you can buy these instead .
• Scarves: A scarf is a must-have when traveling to Paris in January. This scarf is not only very warm but also looks stylish. And since it’s big enough, it can also work as a blanket when you want to be cozy on your couch or even back at the hotel.
• Gloves: I love these pair of gloves as they’re not only warm but also touch-screen sensitive so you can use your phone while still wearing them.
• Waterproof winter boots : When buying boots for winter, I recommend buying ones that are not only waterproof and warm but also comfortable to walk in like these .
• Knitted cap : This is the one I recommend  to keep your head warm.
• Rain Jacket: With so much rain in Paris in January, you’ll need to take a rain jacket like this one . ( Here is the men’s version ).
• Windproof Umbrella: Rain doesn’t mean you should hide away in your hotel and lose time. And sometimes, a rain jacket alone may not be enough. So to fully protect yourself, add this windproof umbrella to the list of things to pack for Paris in January
• Power bank: We all know that cold weather drains batteries like nothing! So stay connected at all times by taking a power bank. I like this power bank because it’s portable and can also charge the phone several times before it runs out.
• Universal travel adapter: In the same way, pack this universal travel adapter instead of the European one to avoid buying one every time you travel to a new country.
• Travel Insurance: Regardless of where you’re traveling to or what time of the year it is, you need travel insurance. After trying out various travel Insurance, I settled on World Nomads as it covers various activities and the claiming process is not a rat race like some others.

These are some of the things to pack but for a complete list, you can check out this list of what to pack for Paris in winter or the general Europe packing list for winter .

FAQs About Visiting Paris in January

Is January a good time to go to Paris?

This really depends on you on what you plan to do in the city of lights! If you prefer winter activities, then it’s a good time, if not, you might just consider visiting other times of the year. But with this post, I hope that I showed you that there are a number of things to do in January in Paris.

What is there to do in Paris in January?

As I explained in the post above, there are a ton of things to do. From enjoying the Christmas markets, and attending the Paris Lights Festival to going skating, there are various activities to do.

What is Disneyland Paris like in January?

If you visit Disneyland Paris at the beginning of January, then you enjoy the magical festivities of Christmas!

With the lights, the decorations, and the beautifully dressed characters, Disney is even more magical at this time of the year. But after those initial days of January, the Christmas theme ends and it goes back to the usual Disney we know – still magical if you need to know!

What’s Paris like in January?

To give you a general view, Paris gets quiet, cold, and chilly, with fewer crowds and it’s generally grey with short days.

Does it rain a lot in Paris in January?

The simple answer is yes! It does rain in January but not heavily though! However, always take a rain jacket and a windproof umbrella because it can rain abruptly.

Where should I stay in pairs in January?

I gave you many options above but to summarize them, I’d recommend staying at The People Hostel – Paris 12 if you’re traveling on a budget, Hôtel Eiffel Turenne if you’re on a mid-range budget, and Hotel Marignan Champs-Elysées for a luxurious stay.

Still not sure when to visit Paris? You can check out my specific monthly articles to help you decide. | Paris in January | Paris in February | Paris in March | Paris in April | Paris in May | Paris in June | Paris in July | Paris in August | Paris in September | Paris in October | Paris in November | Paris in December |.

Final Thought on the Best Things to Do in Paris in January

January might not be the most ideal time of the year to visit Paris but as you can see, there is so much the city of love offers even when the temperatures are really low!

So if you were asking yourself whether it’s a good idea to travel to Paris in January, I hope that this post showed you all the possibilities and I hope it helps you decide to visit.

Have you been to Paris in January before? How was your experience? Let me know in the comments below and if this will be the first time, you can still let me know what you’re most excited to do when you reach Paris.

NEVER TRAVEL TO PARIS WITHOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE One of the biggest mistakes you’ll ever make when planning a trip to Paris is to forego Travel Insurance ! You might think that it’s expensive, but when you think of how much it will save you when you lose your valuables or even get sick, then you’ll know that it’s NOT that expensive! Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more. If you’re considering travel insurance for your trip, check out World Nomads .

Most posts to inspire you to visit Paris

• How to spend a weekend in Paris
• Best things to do in Paris
• Most romantic things to do in Paris
• Interesting facts about Paris
• Best books about Paris you should read
• Places to get the best views of Paris

Was this post on the best things to do in January in Paris helpful? Then please consider sharing it with others!

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Esther is the face and voice behind Dreams in Paris! She has always been obsessed with Paris even before she moved there. She has lived in Paris for a couple of years, and that obsession has not changed! That love for Paris, plus her passion for writing led to the birth of Dreams in Paris! She now shares all the practical tips and guides she’s picked along the way to help you plan a memorable trip to the city of love! You can learn more about her here !

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25 places other than France where speaking French is helpful

Posted: January 8, 2024 | Last updated: January 8, 2024

Speaking another language is always helpful, especially if you love to travel. And French, commonly thought of as one of the most beautiful in the world, is also more useful than you might realize. Here are 25 destinations outside of France where you can put your French language skills to good use!

Home to delicious beer, chocolate, waffles, and fries (no, they actually didn’t originate in France), Belgium is also a French-speaking country. The language is one of three officially spoken in the country; the other two are Dutch and German. French is mostly spoken in the capital, Brussels, and in the south of the country.

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Another multilingual state that borders France, the Grand Duchy has French, German, and Luxembourgish as official languages. However, French is one most commonly used on signs and in written communication in the country. You’ll also find it most helpful for small talk and chatting with residents.

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Switzerland

Yet another European country with French as one of the official languages (the others are German, Italian, and Rhaeto-Romance). You’ll find French most useful in Geneva and the surrounding area, although it’s used throughout Switzerland.

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Many people make the mistake of assuming that this tiny state is a part of France. And while Monaco is surrounded by its’ much larger neighbor and uses the French language, it is a sovereign city-state with a monarchy. There is also a Monégasque language that has official status.

Aosta Valley

This region of Italy is located in the northwest of the country, near France. Latin was replaced by French as the official language after the fall of the Roman Empire and then, in the 19th century, was replaced with Italian. Today, the region is bilingual, and you’ll see French and Italian written on road signs and hear the two spoken by locals.

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The French Empire had a strong presence in North Africa, and thus many nations in the region still use French as an official language. Morocco is one of these, and French is widespread along with Arabic and various Berber dialects. As a visitor, you’ll find it extremely useful when speaking to locals or reading signs and menus.

Algeria’s official languages are Arabic and Berber, but French is also commonly understood. While not as widely used as in neighboring Morocco, it will be your best bet if you don’t speak one of the official languages. 

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Another former French colonial outpost, the language is used and understood throughout the country in addition to Arabic and Tunisian. It’s estimated over half the population speaks French, and it’s the teaching language of high schools in the country.

Cameroon was a colony of both the UK and France in the early 20th century. So, English and French are spoken in the country. However, French is the most prevalent, with eight of 10 regions considered Francophone. Locals also speak numerous other indigenous languages.

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Ivory Coast

Known as “Côte d’Ivoire” in French, this coastal nation uses the old colonial language as the official one. Additionally, numerous indigenous languages also have recognized status in the Ivory Coast.

Senegal has six recognized indigenous languages, the most well-known and commonly spoken is Wolof. However, French is still the official language of the country despite Wolof being more widely used and understood.

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Yet another multilingual former French colony, Burundi has three official languages. In addition to French, Kirundi, and Swahili are recognized by the government. In 2014, English also gained status in the country.

Republic of the Congo

Also known as the Congo or Congo-Brazzaville, it is not to be confused with its neighbor, the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Formerly known as the French Congo, due to colonization, the language is still the official one of use to this day. The local Bantu language, Kituba, Lingala, and numerous other indigenous languages are also widely spoken.

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Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

The DRC has four main languages: Kikongo (Kituba), Lingala, Swahili, and Tshiluba. However, as a former Belgian colony, French is still widely used and understood.

Togo is a very multilingual country, and in addition to the official language, French has over 40 in use throughout the country. Many signs will be in French, and most locals speak some.

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Yet another former French colony, visitors to Mali will find the language very useful in most interactions. Additionally, the country is home to more than 80 other local languages.

The British and French fought over Canada, with the former finally winning out, but the Francophone portion of the population remained influential. So much so that the country has two official languages: English and French, with over 70 indigenous languages in existence. And the province of Québec only has French as the official language (and frequently threatens to secede from Canada). Its neighbor, New Brunswick, is the only officially bilingual province.

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When the U.S. purchased Louisiana territory from the French in 1803, it probably wasn’t considered how long the language would stick around. In the 1960s, efforts were made to revive the language in the state after decades of suppression and Americanization. Now, French is spoken by an estimated 100,000 to 200,000 residents, ranging from traditional and Cajun (Louisiana) French.

The Spanish colonized this Caribbean island before the Brits and French arrived. Then in 1763, France took over, and in 1943, it became semi-autonomous before gaining its current status as an Overseas Department in 1946. French is the official language, and visitors will find it helpful to know basic phrases, but Martinique Creole is unofficially the local language of communication.

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Another current French Overseas Department first colonized by the Spanish, Guadalupe has French as its official language, but like Martinique, Creole is widely used by locals.

French Guiana

This small section of the South American continent, located between far northeastern Brazil and Suriname and Guyana, is a former colony that housed a penal colony of France. Today, it is a French Overseas Department. Thus, French is the official language, but Creole is the language of use by many residents.

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French Polynesia

Colonized by the French, the islands received the name “French Polynesia” after being designated a French Overseas Territory in the '50s. Then, in 1977, the country received autonomy and is now considered an overseas country of the French Republic, with French as the official language.

New Caledonia

The British initially colonized these islands in the South Pacific before the French took over in 1853. Recent years have brought referendums for independence, but a slim majority of the population has voted in favor of remaining part of France. French remains the official language of the territory.

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This Pacific country is very multilingual, with French, English, and Bislama all considered official languages. However, it doesn’t stop there, as over 100 languages are spoken on the island. After centuries of colonization, independence was finally declared in 1980. 

Wallis & Futuna

Made up of the Wallis, Futuna, and Alofi islands, all three were French protectorates and colonies until 1961. Then, the islands became a French Overseas Territory until 2003, when they received status as an Overseas Collectivity. French has been the official language throughout all the status changes.

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