Paris in January: What to Really Expect

Visiting Paris in January in its coldest season can be a unique experience. Regardless of the weather, Paris remains as one of the most romantic cities on Earth and provides a je ne sais quoi atmosphere year round – especially if you’re looking for something different from your typical summer vacation.

From cozy cafes to outdoor ice skating rinks, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your time in Paris during the winter months – including January! In this article, we’ll go over what you can expect when traveling to Paris in January so that you can make sure your trip is as enjoyable as possible!

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Paris in January

Paris Weather in January

The weather in Paris during the month of January is usually quite cold with average temperatures ranging from a low of 36°F (2°C) to an average high of 47°F (8°C). It also tends to have consistent cold and wet weather, so it’s important to pack an umbrella or raincoat. Additionally, snowfall is not uncommon throughout the city and it’s always a good idea to bring a pair of waterproof boots.

What To Wear & Pack

When packing for a January visit to Paris, it’s important to plan accordingly for the cold weather. Bring along plenty of warm clothes with layers such as sweaters, scarves, hats, and gloves, and warm socks. If you plan on doing any outdoor activities, make sure to also pack a warm winter coat and waterproof boots. Additionally, don’t forget to bring along your umbrella or raincoat in case of inclement weather.

Popular Attractions & Activities

Although the cold weather may not be ideal for sightseeing, Paris still offers plenty of indoor attractions and activities that can be enjoyed during the winter months. Popular attractions include Paris museums such as Musée d’Orsay and the Louvre Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Eiffel Tower – all of which offer discounted admission prices during the winter months. Best of all, there are a fewer crowds when you visit Paris in January, so it feels as if you have the museums all to yourself.

Other popular activities include visiting one of the many cozy cafes throughout the city or taking a romantic stroll along the banks of the Seine River. Additionally, ice skating rinks are set up around Paris during the winter months – making it an ideal activity for those looking to get outdoors while staying warm!

Hotels & Accommodation

When it comes to finding accommodation in Paris during January, there are plenty of options available to meet all budgets and preferences. From some of the best hotels in Paris with breathtaking views of the city skyline to budget friendly hotels located near popular attractions – there is something for everyone when it comes to finding a place to stay in Paris during January.

Here are some of our favorite hotels in Paris with a view of the Eiffel Tower:

Hotel Balzac

6 rue Balzac, 75008 Paris, France
8th Arrondissement
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Hotel Balzac is the perfect choice if you want to be in the heart of it all. Located just steps away from the world-famous Champs Elysées Avenue and iconic sights such as Arc de Triomphe, this hotel also offers breathtaking Eiffel Tower views. Guests can also enjoy a spectacular breakfast on the terrace while enjoying the beauty of Paris.

Highlights:

Set in Balzac’s 19th-century mansion, this refurbished luxury hotel is a short distance walk to the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs Elysées.
Hotel Balzac offers rooms and suites with soft lighting and a neoclassical décor with some rooms including views of Paris or the courtyard.
A continental and buffet breakfast is available daily under the drawing room’s glass ceiling every morning. You can also sample gourmet cuisine in the Michelin-awarded restaurant, managed by chef Pierre Gagnaire.
Nearby points of interests: George V Metro Station is 210 m from the property and provides direct access to the Louvre Museum.
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La Réserve Paris Hotel & Spa

42 Avenue Gabriel, 75008 Paris, France
8th Arrondissement
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This contemporary hotel offers a romantic stay for couples looking for an unforgettable experience in Paris. Enjoy views of the incredible Champs Elysees and Arc de Triomphe from your private balcony, or take advantage of their rooftop bar to watch the sunset over this spectacular landmark.

Highlights:

La Réserve Paris Hotel & Spa boasts a bar, spa, and wellness center and views of the city,
Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, an indoor pool, and hammam.
La Réserve Paris Hotel & Spa offers a continental or à la carte breakfast.
Popular points of interest near La Réserve Paris Hotel & Spa include Tuileries Garden, Arc de Triomphe, and Orsay Museum. The nearest airport is Paris – Orly Airport, 18 km from the hotel.
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Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel

18 Avenue De Suffren, Entrée au 22 rue Jean Rey, 75015 Paris, France
15th Arrondissement
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This Best Paris Hotels with Best Views are just steps away from the iconic Eiffel Tower. It features stylishly decorated rooms, some offering private balconies with stunning city views and monuments. Enjoy some time at its on-site restaurant for delicious French cuisine or take advantage of its concierge service for tailored sightseeing tours.

Highlights:

The boutique hotel Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel is set at the foot of the Eiffel Tower and the Trocadero.
Decorated in a contemporary style, the bright guest rooms offer panoramic views of Paris. Most rooms have a balcony, while some also have a stunning view of the Eiffel Tower or the garden.
The fitness room offers cardio equipment
The hotel’s restaurant serves Californian-style cuisine with French flavors. It has an open-plan kitchen and a stylish wine bar. A connectivity lounge featuring computers and printers is also available in the hotel. Several types of breakfast are available each morning, including Asian, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
Nearby places of interest: Pullman Paris is on the Left Bank, just a 5-minute walk from the Eiffel Towe, and a short distance walk to the Bir-Hakeim Metro Station, where you reach the Arc de Triomphe, Champs Élysées, and Louvre Museum.
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Restaurants & Dining

There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and other dining options available throughout Paris during the winter months. From cozy bistros serving up traditional French cuisine to international eateries offering a variety of different flavors – there is something for everyone when it comes to dining in Paris during January.

Additionally, many restaurants offer discounts and special promotions during the winter months – making it an ideal time to sample some of the best food that Paris has to offer.

Some of our favorite restaurants and cafes when visiting Paris in January:

Lindt

Hot cocoa while strolling the streets of Paris in January is always a good idea. A cup of Lindt chocolate near the Palais Opéré Garnier is an experience in and of itself. We recommend you bring a mug and head towards Grand Palais and Jardin des Tuilles with a cup of hot cocoa in a walking around Paris in typical January weather.

Angelina

It definitely won’t be a Paris in January without hot chocolate, and Angelina is the top choice for many travelers visiting Paris in December. Angelina’s chocolat chaud is famous for its thick texture and has become a staple in Paris regardless of the season.

Shopping

Shopping in Paris during January can be a great way to get your hands on some unique souvenirs or find a bargain on clothing and accessories in large department stores. Many stores throughout the city offer discounts and special deals during this time – making it an ideal opportunity to pick up something special for yourself or as a gift for someone else.

Additionally, January is also the perfect time to check out some of the famous flea markets located around the city – such as Clignancourt or Vanves – where you can find everything from antiques and vintage items to handmade crafts and jewelry.

Paris in January also means the biggest winter sales in some of the best department stores in the French capital. Here are the major department stores in Paris that offer the best winter sales in January:

Galeries Lafayette

Address: 40 Bd Haussmann, 75009 Paris, France | map
Metro: Chaussée d’Antin — La Fayette; Lines 7 & 9

Visiting Paris in January means a trip to Galeries Lafayette, where you are sure to find the best winter sales. Galeries Lafayette features high-end fashion, homewares, and lifestyle brands inside the department store. In addition to the shops devoted to designer clothes for men and women, large sections are dedicated to cosmetics, electronics, jewelry, and more.

Le Bon Marché

Address: 24 Rue de Sèvres, 75007 Paris, France | map
Metro: Sèvres – Babylone; Lines 10, 12

Le Bon Marché is the oldest department store in the world, if not the first department store in the world. Located in the 6th arrondissement, home to the 17th-century Luxembourg Gardens, this famous department store founded in 1838 has undergone significant renovations throughout its history. The place now offers a wide selection of high-end products in fashion, food, and household items.

BHV Le Marais

Address: 52 Rue de Rivoli, 75004 Paris, France | map
Metro: Hôtel de Ville; Lines 1, 11

BHV Homme is also the only one of Paris’ four major department stores open daily. It is directly across the Hotel de Ville metro stop and is within a five-minute walk from the Centre Pompidou and other historic city sites. BHV Le Marais also has its metro station, which is perfect for Paris in January so you keep warm from the chilly weather.

Printemps Haussmann

Address: 64 Bd Haussmann, 75009 Paris, France | map
Metro: Havre – Caumartin; Lines 3, 9

Au Printemps is a great way to spend time indoors when visiting Paris in January. This department store is the perfect place to shop and enjoy an art Nouveau architecture, which offers designer clothing, cosmetics, and accessories for men and women. The exterior is well decorated with pleasant little music. The interior is vast and well-organized, and the people there are amicable and always ready to help.

Cultural Events & Festivals When Visiting Paris in January

Although most of Paris’s famous festivals take place during the summer months, there are still plenty of cultural events taking place throughout January. These include art exhibitions at renowned galleries such as Centre Pompidou and Orsay, theater performances at the iconic Comedie Francaise, and music concerts at venues like La Cigale. Additionally, January is also a great time to check out some of the city’s famous cabarets – such as the Moulin Rouge or Paradis Latin – for an unforgettable evening of entertainment!

Visit Paris Safety Tips in January

As with any major city, it’s important to take certain safety precautions when traveling to Paris in January. Make sure to always be aware of your surroundings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables. Additionally, it’s best to avoid walking alone late at night and make sure you have a safe way back to your accommodation after dark.

Transportation

When it comes to getting around Paris during January, there are plenty of options available for travelers. The most popular form of transportation is the Metro system which offers convenient access to all areas of the city. Additionally, taxis can be found throughout Paris and offer a reliable way to get from one place to another. Finally, bus and bicycle rental services are also available throughout the city – making it easy for travelers to explore all that Paris has to offer!

Traveling to Paris in January can be an unforgettable experience! From cozy cafes to outdoor ice skating rinks, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your time in the city during the winter months. Additionally, with discounted admission prices at popular attractions and plenty of discounts and special promotions at restaurants and shops – January in Paris can be an ideal time for those looking for a unique and affordable getaway.

Just make sure to plan accordingly for the cold weather and take certain safety precautions when traveling through the city – and you’ll be sure to have a wonderful trip!

Paris in January: What to Really Expect