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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.
Snow in Paris bursts the confines of magic.
That is, of course, if you don’t have to commute in it and if you’re ready to drop everything and partake!
Snow in Paris is a fleeting experience.
All my Parisian friends tell me how sad it is that it doesn’t snow in Paris anymore. I’ve been regaled with tales of making towering snowmen and sledding down snow-covered hills reminiscent of a perfect Canadian snow day.
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.
How To Make The Most of Paris In The Snow
Clear Your Schedule For Snow In Paris
Watch your weather app. In 2021 snow was forecast many times but often the forecast changed 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 am on a wintery morning is the only time I’ve ever had ice underfoot in Paris.
Read More: Paris in the Winter and more specifically, the best of January in Paris. Have you ever considered coming to Paris in February?
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.
Read More | Interested in visiting Paris in other seasons as well?
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 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 are a sight you won’t soon forget. In 2021, people tobogganed down the snowy slopes by 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.
I hope you get the opportunity to experience the enchantment of snow in Paris.
Until next time,
More Travel Info…
Paris Travel Resources:
All my Paris resources are right here on this page.
If you love that village feel in Paris these areas might interest you:
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.
And Montparnasse. Most people think of the tall black tower looming over the Paris skyline or the train station. This guide on Montparnasse uncovers some marvellous things to discover in the 14th arrondissement.
If you like being by the water, Ile aux Cygnes in the Seine might be for you! The Statue of Liberty, views of the Eiffel Tower and locals walking their dogs!
If you are looking for food suggestions, read about where to find the best croissants in Paris. And, if you have a sweet tooth like me, check out these best pâtisseries to try. There are also plenty of café suggestions for the Marais area in this post: Tips from a Local.
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.
If you are going further afield in France, make sure to check out my page on France.
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