{"id":1260203,"date":"2022-10-11T11:40:29","date_gmt":"2022-10-11T09:40:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/haussmann.galerieslafayette.com\/?p=1260203"},"modified":"2026-05-18T16:55:39","modified_gmt":"2026-05-18T14:55:39","slug":"paris-in-winter","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/haussmann.galerieslafayette.com\/en\/paris-in-winter\/","title":{"rendered":"Paris in Winter"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\u2015 Best Things to Do, What to Pack & Insider Tips<\/mark> \u2015 <\/p>\n\n\n\n When we think of what a trip to Paris might look like, most people will envision days spent strolling around the arrondissements in the warm weather and relaxing in the parks under the soft sunshine. But as it turns out, there are a wealth of reasons why you should consider visiting Paris during the wintertime. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you are looking to really experience all the romance and culture of the City of Light, want to avoid the crowds, and also wouldn\u2018t mind saving some money, then winter just might be the best time for you to plan your big Parisian adventure. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Let\u2019s be honest: there is never a bad time to visit the magnificent city of Paris, no matter what season it is. But there are some extra special experiences that you can have in winter that you just won’t get at any other time of the year. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This quick guide to winter in Paris from Galeries Lafayette will give you all the tips you need to have a wonderful visit, regardless of the weather.<\/p>\n\n\n\n People flock to Paris from all corners of the globe to experience its vast collections of art and historical artefacts. When the weather turns cold, it\u2019s the ideal time to explore at least a little bit of the immense cultural richness that Paris has to offer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The first stop on any art lover’s tour should be, of course, the Louvre<\/span>. Home of the Mona Lisa and the Venus De Milo, the Louvre contains a staggering number of stunning masterpieces and antiquities. There are over 500,000 objects and 35,000 works of art on display spread out over 60,600 square metres. It\u2019s not possible to take it all in during the one trip, so plan your visit carefully if you\u2019re short on time! <\/p>\n\n\n\n As well as the Louvre, some of the other must-see museums in Paris include the Centre Pompidou, the Mus\u00e9e Picasso Paris, the Mus\u00e9e Rodin, the Fondation Louis Vuitton, and the Mus\u00e9e d\u2019Orsay.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n If you are visiting Paris during the Christmas season, then you are in for a very special treat indeed! From the middle of November through to early January, there are numerous Christmas markets running throughout Paris. Called \u2018March\u00e9 de No\u00ebl\u2019 in French, Christmas markets are popular with visitors and locals of all ages. Some of the most famous Parisian Christmas markets include the Notre-Dame de Paris Christmas market, the H\u00f4tel de Ville Christmas Market, and the Montmartre Christmas Market.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Shake off the winter chill with a cup of mulled wine (vin chaud) or a mug of exquisite hot chocolate. Indulge in special Christmastime treats such as spiced gingerbread (pain d’\u00e9pices), or roasted chestnuts.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n On your way to and from the markets, you can marvel at the wondrous Christmas displays at Galeries Lafayette. Our iconic holiday window displays always feature Santa Claus (Called P\u00e8re No\u00ebl in French), and an array of Christmas themes. Expect gorgeous lighting, a festive atmosphere, and a uniquely French celebration of the spirit of Christmas. Don\u2019t miss the fabulous Christmas tree at Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann, a Parisian tradition since 1976!<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you want to create your own traditional Christmas dinner, there is a huge range of exquisite gourmet food at Galeries Lafayette Gourmet, such as the finest foie gras, beautiful French wine, and delectable chocolate. Don’t hesitate to discover the secrets of Ferrandi chefs at one of our workshops. The perfect opportunity to improve your culinary skills and delight your guests this Christmas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When the wind is blowing and the snow is coming down, you might be tempted to hunker down in your hotel room. But a better idea is to put on some of your best clothes, wrap yourself up in a coat and set out to see a theater show or enjoy a night at the ballet. Paris is home to one of the world\u2019s most celebrated ballet companies, the Paris Opera Ballet (Ballet de l’Op\u00e9ra national de Paris). You can see both classical ballets, such as Swan Lake, or contemporary ballets at majestic and historic venues like the Palais Garnier<\/span>, the Op\u00e9ra Bastille<\/span>, or the Place de l’Op\u00e9ra<\/span> If you\u2019d rather catch a show, then head out to Th\u00e9\u00e2tre du Ch\u00e2telet<\/span>, Le Grand Rex<\/span>, or the Th\u00e9\u00e2tre Mogador<\/span>. These venues often host the latest hit musicals and productions. If you fancy a spot of shopping before or after the show, or need some refreshments, Galeries Lafayette is ideally located just next to the Op\u00e9ra Garnier and the Th\u00e9\u00e2tre Mogador.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To dig right into Parisian culture, there\u2019s no match for a live cabaret show. You can be wowed by Parisian cabaret and burlesque performances at the legendary Moulin Rouge<\/span> or other famous venues such as the Lido and the Paradis Latin. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Want to work up an appetite and have an experience you can only have during wintertime in Paris? Then, you might want to try a spot of ice skating. Strap on your skates and race around some of the most beautiful ice skating rinks in the world. <\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the not-to-be-missed ice skating experiences in Paris is the Patins en Folie at Parc Andr\u00e9 Citro\u00ebn<\/span>. This is the biggest outdoor ice skating rink in Paris, with more than 450 square metres of ice to glide over. Or you can visit the Ch\u00e2teau de Vaux-le-Vicomte<\/span> ice skating rink and be amazed at the fabulous fairytale atmosphere. If you have little ones with you, are a fan of comic books, or you\u2019re just a big kid yourself, then the snow village at Parc Asterix<\/span> is the perfect spot to have some fun with some of France\u2019s most beloved cartoon characters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It really does go without saying that fashion is part of the beating heart of Paris. And winter is one of the best times to go shopping in the French capital. From top brand designer stores to discounters, winter is when Parisian retailers offer some of their best deals. Going shopping at the winter sales is something of a tradition for Parisians. Some people even take time off work to make the most of the post-Christmas bargain season!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Known as \u2018Les Soldes\u2019, the Paris winter sales run for an entire month from January to February. To find some of the best bargains and enjoy one of the most beautiful Parisian attractions, follow the flock of French fashionistas to Galeries Lafayette Haussmann. Built in 1893, Galeries Lafayette Haussmann is a truly iconic Parisian shopping destination and one of the most gorgeous buildings in the City of Light. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Underneath its famous Art D\u00e9co dome, Galeries Lafayette Haussmann is home to over 3,500 of the world\u2019s top brands. Discover a unique Parisian shopping experience at Galeries Lafayette Haussmann<\/span><\/a>. International visitors can enjoy a tax-free shopping experience with a 12% savings. If you want to enhance your visit, you can arrange a dedicated personal shopper.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you need a break, the center has a range of fantastic restaurants. You can even head up to the terrace and enjoy a breathtaking view of Paris in the wintertime! <\/p>\n\n\n\n After taking in the immense amount of culture on offer, experiencing the whirlwind of ice skating or shopping at Galeries Lafayette until you drop, you might feel like you are in need of refreshment. Alongside fashion, architecture, and artworks, we all know that the French are rightly famous for their delectable cuisine and wonderful dining culture. And Galeries Lafayette in Paris is certainly one of the best places to enjoy the finest French food and drink. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Galeries Lafayette has a variety of caf\u00e9s and restaurants<\/a><\/strong><\/span> spread across our Paris Stores. You can settle in for anything from a casual bite to a refined gourmet experience. For a truly memorable Parisian dining experience, book a table at La Terrasse<\/a><\/span><\/strong> at Galeries Lafayette Haussmann. You can sample the best French cuisine and enjoy stunning panoramic views of Paris and the Eiffel Tower.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Once you\u2019ve had your fill of the fabulous Parisian food and drink, you may want to try your hand at creating a classic dish yourself. Taking a cooking class is a great way to immerse yourself in French culture and learn a few handy culinary skills for your kitchen at home. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Galeries Lafayette Haussmann has teamed up with the renowned cooking school Ferrandi Paris to provide a series of in-depth cooking workshops<\/span><\/a>. These courses are designed for both novice cooks and experienced chefs. Even the kids can have a try at creating a sumptuous meal! <\/p>\n\n\n\n The Ferrandi Paris school\u2019s cooking classes at Galeries Lafayette are held in English and always cover seasonal themes. So, if you go during winter, expect hearty dishes with a distinctly Christmassy flavour!<\/p>\n\n\n\n If the weather really is becoming too much to bear, you can always head for shelter \u2013 and some shopping – in one of the historic Galeries Lafayette stores located throughout Paris. Each Galeries Lafayette store has stunning interiors and a vast selection of high-end fashion, beauty products, household goods, and gourmet food and wine. They are no doubt some of the most charming spots to spend some time when the Parisian rain strats to come down. <\/p>\n\n\n\n As well as the wonderful flagship Galeries Lafayette store on Boulevard Haussmann, you can also visit Galeries Lafayette Champs-\u00c9lys\u00e9es for a more modern shopping experience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Paris puts on its very best and showcases the cutting edge of fashion during Fashion Week. Held twice a year, there is the spring\/summer Fashion Week and the fall\/winter Fashion Week. The winter Paris Fashion Week usually runs from late February to early March and exhibits the very latest in autumn and winter styling. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Fashion Week is where the very top names in international fashion display their latest collections. While many of the events are for industry professionals, you can find fashion events accessible to the public all across Paris. Even without insider credentials, it\u2019s still a special experience to be present in a city during its celebration of style. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Galeries Lafayette Haussmann also regularly hosts fabulous fashion shows<\/strong> <\/a>that are open to the public. Experience all the elegance and style of Parisian fashion week at Galeries Lafayette and might even spot a celebrity or two! <\/p>\n\n\n\n While it doesn\u2019t get anywhere near as cold as other parts of the country, you can still expect some cold weather in Paris in winter. Mornings can be chilly, the days can be cold, and at night, let\u2019s just say you need to be ready for some very frosty temperatures. A thick coat, a sturdy jacket, boots, gloves, a hat, and a trusty scarf or three are absolutely vital. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Remember that Parisians pride themselves on their style. So, although winter might mean wrapping up, it most certainly does not mean covering up your own unique fashion sense! Dress with flair and style, but always be sure to keep things tasteful. Understated chic and effortless cool are the mainstays of Parisian style. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Focus on building your outfits using neutral colours and choose garments made from natural fibres like cashmere or wool. Layering for warmth is essential. A classic heavy wool coat is a smart choice, as is a sturdy leather trench coat. Sweaters and blazers are always good mid-layers with cotton shirts or t-shirts underneath. If you are especially prone to the cold, you may even want to consider investing in some lightweight thermal underwear. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Good quality jeans or pants will help you ward off the chill. When you\u2019re wearing a dress or a skirt, go for thick hosiery to help you stay warm. If urban wear is your thing, then a thick hoody beneath a puffer jacket will keep you protected from the worst of the Parisian winter winds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n When you\u2019re in Paris, you can expect to be doing plenty of walking, even in the wintertime. It\u2019s incredibly important to choose solid footwear to make sure you can handle the slippery winter streets. Choose a good pair of boots or waterproof sneakers or shoes. Make sure your shoes are broken in, weatherproof, comfortable, and give you plenty of grip. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The winter months can see Paris getting a fair bit of rain, especially in December. A warm woolly beanie or a classic fedora-style hat is also a wise choice. If you can\u2019t bring an umbrella with you, then make sure you pick one up as soon as you can. A hat and umbrella will allow you to casually stroll the Parisian laneways in classic noir style, rather than running for shelter when the rain starts to come down! <\/p>\n\n\n\n Don\u2019t just pack practically. Remember that there is a good chance you\u2019ll be sitting down for a meal at a fine dining establishment, a chic caf\u00e9, or going to a high-end show. Put at least one formal or semi-formal outfit in your bag. It is Paris, after all!<\/p>\n\n\n\n No matter what your style, you can find all the accessories you need for winter, can be found at Galeries Lafayette.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHow to get the most out of a trip to Paris in winter<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Explore the iconic galleries and museums of Paris<\/h2>\n\n\n\n


Enjoy the charming Parisian Christmas markets<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>Treat yourself to a night out at the ballet or theatre<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Spend some time ice skating<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Buy yourself a new outfit during the winter sales<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSettle in and relax at Galeries Lafayette<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLearn how to cook Parisian cuisine<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Escape from the weather at Galeries Lafayette<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Discover New Styles at Paris Fashion Week<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhat to pack for a winter visit to Paris<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Where to find the perfect wardrobe for a Parisian winter<\/h2>\n\n\n\n