Paris.
The most magical city in the world.
Add a dusting of sparkling snowflakes resting on the crossbars of the Eiffel Tower, Dalida’s bust, and blanketing the motorcycles parked on the street.
Paris snow paints a picture-perfect scene, straight out of a fairytale
But, snow in Paris is a fleeting experience.
When it’s snowing in Paris, drop everything and explore the magical allure of snowy Paris!
During my first entire Paris winter in 2021, there were flurries several times. I kept my fingers crossed for a real Paris snowfall, one that blanketed my favourite city. Luckily, Paris delivered its white enchantment – once in January and once in February. Paris in the snow was just as magnificent as I’d imagined.
The Best Ways To Enjoy Paris In The Snow
Clear Your Schedule For Snow In Paris
Watch your weather app. A Paris snowfall is often forecast but usually changes to rain. Pay attention to the predicted temperatures.
If you are keen to get out and photograph Paris in the snow, set your alarm early, or cancel a luncheon date ( I did both) because the snow in Paris disappears very quickly.
Snow In Paris: Ready, Set, Go!
Bring an umbrella. The snow in Paris is very wet. An umbrella will keep you and your camera dry! The first time out, I got soaked. I headed back to my apartment, dried off, warmed up, and went back out.
Bring gloves. My fingers froze.
If you are going out early in the morning, the streets can be icy. Seven a.m. on a wintery morning is the only time I’ve ever had ice underfoot in Paris.
The Most Popular Guided Tours and Tickets for Paris:
Seine River Cruises: This one-hour Seine cruise is unforgettable but so is the evening Seine cruise. It’s a hard choice!
This skip-the-line admission to the Arc de Triomphe Rooftop or the timed entry to the Louvre and reserved access to the Musée d’Orsay can maximize your time.
Get to the top of the Eiffel Tower with direct access to the summit by elevator.
A day trip to Versailles with access to the Palace and Gardens with an audio guide is always a good idea.
Best Places To See Snow In Paris
All of Paris’s monuments look regal draped in a dusting of white snowflakes. Have a plan of where you want to begin. Everything looks so enchanting, you might find that the art of being a flâneur is perfect for a snowy Paris day.
The Champ de Mars And The Eiffel Tower
It’s a classic place to start. Living in the 7th arrondissement not too far from the Eiffel Tower, I walked over to the Champ de Mars and found Parisians bundled up thoroughly enjoying the winter wonderland.
Where To Stay In Paris
Check out these 13 Affordable Hotels in Paris and these Boutique hotels in the Marais.
Paris hotels:
- Hôtel la Comtesse with an Eiffel Tower view
- Chouchou Hotel with an eclectic vibe
- Hôtel de Joséphine Bonaparte in the heart of the Marais
- Hôtel des Académies et des Arts in Saint-Germain des Prés (the left bank)
- Hotel Keppler a stylish 4-star hotel near the Arc de Triomphe
Prefer staying in an apartment? Here are some fabulous Paris apartments:
- Portrait of Splendour literally filled with portraits, in the Marais
- Joyau de Marais
- The Panthéon Pageantry
Paris In The Snow: Pont des Arts
One of the most beautiful bridges in Paris, the pedestrian bridge, the Pont des Arts, is pure enchantment on a snowy Paris day. People watching when there is snow in Paris hits an all-time high!
Delight In Snowy Paris On Pont Alexandre III
With the cherubs, dragons, and lamposts proudly sporting their temporary white cloak, the Pont Alexandre III is an enchanting destination when there is snow in Paris.
Paris In The Snow: Head To Montmartre
Montmartre with its higher elevation is a top pick for enjoying Paris in the snow. Looking out over Paris’s rooftops blanketed in snow and exploring Montmartre’s snowy cobbled streets is a sight you won’t soon forget. In 2021, people tobogganed down the snowy slopes of Sacre Coeur.
What’s not to love about playing in the snow in Paris?
Read More | Heading to Montmartre? Here are some top things to do in Montmartre.
Stop For Hot Chocolate
A red nose and frozen fingers? Why not stop for a cup of rich, delectable hot chocolate? One of my favourite places is at Angelina’s.
FAQ’s: Paris In The Snow
Does it snow in Paris?
Yes, it snows in Paris! Not every year and not that frequently but it does snow in Paris. And Paris looks straight out of a fairy tale.
What should I wear when it is snowing in Paris?
It’s cold, wet, and damp when it snows in Paris. Wear a down jacket, slip-proof boots, a hat, a scarf, and gloves. Also, an umbrella is necessary as the snow in Paris is very wet.
Does a Paris snowfall last long?
The snow in Paris France does not stay on the ground too long. If you want to fully enjoy a snowy Paris experience, change your plans, and get as the snowflakes are falling.
I hope you get the opportunity to experience the enchantment of snow in Paris.
Until next time,
More Travel Info…
Paris Travel Resources:
Planning Your Trip to Paris?
Book your airline tickets with my favourite platform, Skyscanner.
Book a transfer from Charles de Gaulle or Orly airport with Welcome Pick Ups.
Reserve a car (not for Paris) but for a road trip through France.
Reserve train tickets for further travels in Europe with Trainline (my go-to).
Paris By Season:
Here is the inside scoop on Paris in the Summer and Paris in the Spring. Paris in bloom is spectacular. Read about where to see the best spring blooms.
Plan a visit to Paris in the winter (it’s definitely off-season in January) and possibly luck out with a snowy Paris day!
If you’re coming during the Christmas season, read about where to find the best Christmas lights in Paris, these 15 French Christmas traditions and how to make the perfect cheese platter!
Paris by Month:
Jan | Feb | Mar | April | May | June | July | Aug | Sept | Oct | Nov | Dec
Paris By Neighbourhood
Le Marais is one of the oldest areas of Paris. Once marshland, it is full of boutiques, cafés, gorgeous old mansions and museums. Read my full guide to le Marais and also insider Marais tips from a local.
Ile Saint-Louis is still one of my favourite spots in Paris. On Pont Saint-Louis, you’ll almost always find some street music.
Don’t forget to stroll by the canal under chestnut trees by Canal Saint-Martin and eat at some great restaurants in Canal Saint-Martin.
Travelling to Paris alone? This article on navigating Paris alone is full of tips and tricks for the solo traveller.
This page has all my articles on Paris that will help you plan out your trip, including day trips from Paris. I hope you subscribed to my newsletter to get my free download – An Amazing 2-day Itinerary in Paris.
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