Looking for date ideas when it’s cold outside? As native Parisians, we have a few (many) ideas in store for you! Here are 30 romantic things to do in winter in Paris.
There are many guides on famous Paris landmarks and non touristy things to do in Paris – but not many focus on couples, and even less, in winter! There’s no reason for that, romance has to live all year-long.
⭐ As a couple who’s been living together in Paris for 10 years…
We felt it was our duty to share our best date ideas in Paris in winter! 🧤
30 Romantic Things to do in Winter in Paris
Most romantic Paris guides focus on outdoor activities or well-known museums. In this blog post, we’ll shift the spotlight to indoor experiences – of course including a few museums – that are very couples-friendly.
If you would rather walk and be outside a lot more, here are great self guided walking tours in Paris, for each season of the year.
And when you’ll have visited all of Paris (lol, that’s impossible), here are a few magical day trips from Paris in winter. Now, let’s get into the romantic things to do in Paris in winter!
1. Ice Skating in Paris
It might sound cliché, but how could ice skating in Paris ever get old? France loves its ice skating rinks as the Christmas season gets closer! So, where should you go?
Le Grand Palais is home to the largest indoor rink… in the world! And skating under its glass roof is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Christmas markets, at the Tuileries Garden or Jardin d’Acclimatation for instance, have outdoor ice skating rinks.
That’s the perfect occasion to hold your lover’s hand while ice skating to not fall, right before drinking mule wine and eating onion soup.
2. Atelier des Lumières (light show)
In the east of Paris, a cool artsy district, you can find a museum like no other. It’s actually a light show, projected on the walls in a big room.
The lights projected tell a story in the walls, ceiling and floor. You’re fully immersed in it! You can either walk, sit or even lie down there.
It’s one of the most romantic experiences to do in Paris. Themes depend on the season; they’ve covered the works of Van Gogh and its starry night, Dalí, Monet, Renoir or even stories from the Petit Prince or Asterix.
Open: Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 10AM to 6PM, Friday and Saturday from 10AM to 9PM
Price: 18€ (less for children families and seniors)
3. Go to a Christmas Market
Christmas markets are THE romantic thing to do in winter anywhere in the world. Paris got the memo and opened dozens of incredible ones, both for food and activities.
It’s a great place to eat french specialties, such as raclette, onion soup, bretzel or crepes and galettes. You can also drink mulled wine (delicious!), go on rollercoasters, buy handmade souvenirs, ice skate…
Depending on where you’re staying or living, there is one in almost every neighborhood. The largest and most famous are located at Bastille, the Tuileries Garden, the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, and La Défense.
4. Basilica Sacré-Coeur on Top of Montmartre Hill
One of the most romantic things to do in Paris is definitely to go to the Basilica Sacré-Coeur, on top of Montmartre hill.
It’s literally called “basilica of the sacred heart”, in reference to the love Jesus had for humanity in the catholic religion. It’s therefore religious, but still a big symbol of love!
Climb the steps together (or take the funicular if you’d rather stay cozy) and let the city reveal itself only once you’ve reached the top.
And while Montmartre is never entirely free of crowds, it’s surprisingly easy to steal a quiet moment on the esplanade during winter. Just the two of you, holding hands, soaking in the view!
5. Get your Lover’s Portrait Painted at the Artists’ Square
From winter strolls in Paris to road trips along the vineyards and mountains of South of France, France is full of experiences perfect for couples.
Just a short walk from Sacré-Cœur lies Place du Tertre, the beating heart of Montmartre’s artistic soul.
Local artists set up their easels just as they have for generations, bundled in warm coats, sketching, painting, and capturing the charm of Parisian life. Did you know new artists can wait up to 10 years for a space here?
One of the most romantic experiences is to sit together for a portrait, creating a souvenir far more personal than anything from a shop. There are far fewer people in winter, so no waiting!
Afterwards, warm up in a nearby café, admire your portrait, and imagine where it will hang once you return home.
6. Musée de la Vie Romantique (Museum of Romantic Life)
Who could we not include this one? Since Paris is a very romantic city, it dedicated a full museum to love.
This small, cute building is located in the streets of Montmartre, the quintessential romantic neighborhood.
They exhibit artists from the Romantic movement, such as portrait painter Ary Scheffer and writer and activist George Sand, whose works are a good representation of the society of the 19th century.
The gardens of the museum are the cutest. There is a coffee with small tables. I couldn’t pick a more romantic setting for the snack if I tried!
Open: from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10AM to 6PM
Price: 5€ to 7€
Important: closed for renovations, reopening in February 26
7. Le Mur des Je T’Aime
While in Montmartre steep streets, do not miss the wall of I Love You’s. It is a mural composed of glazed tiles reproducing the phrase “I love you” in 250 languages.
A true dedication to the city of love, Paris! Now, how far is Montmartre from the Eiffel Tower?
8. Go Up the Eiffel Tower
Visiting the Eiffel Tower is the perfect thing to do in Paris as a couple. During winter, the Eiffel Tower is decorated with beautiful ornaments and festive lights, making it all the more magical.
It is generally less busy in winter and in the evening time, making it one of the best times to visit if you want to avoid crowds. The views across the city during the evening slots are stunning, seeing the whole city lit up in the dark. There are also some beautiful photo opportunities if you time your visit with the sunset.
The first floor of the Eiffel Tower is a cosy spot with a bar, where you can enjoy a drink together. There are places to grab snacks and light bites such as crepes. On the second floor, there is even a 2 Michelin-star restaurant called Le Jules Verne! The Eiffel Tower closes at 23:45 in winter.
Tip from Gill of Secret Sussex: I would highly recommend layering up when visiting the Eiffel Tower in winter as it can get very cold, especially as it is up high. Hats, scarves, and gloves are a must. I might have even doubled up on socks to stay warm!
💧 If you choose to walk the stairs, take some water with you.
Tap water in Paris is drinkable, so you can refill your reusable bottle for the day!
9. Painting in the Dark Experience
Picture this: you and your partner with fluorescent paint on your hands, sipping cocktails and laughing at each other’s masterpieces with great music in the background…
Well, even if you are not an artist, the Neon Brush workshop is such a fun thing to do when it’s cold outdoors.
You won’t be left to your own devices; an instructor will give you advice and guide you toward models that match your painting level!
10. Go to a Concert
Paris is the third most musical city in the world, after London and NYC, so you might as well enjoy it! You can look up the line up of concerts during your stay on Infoconcert.
We bet there is at least one artist that you and your partner love that will be playing in Paris during your stay! And if you don’t find one, you can contact us for recommendations.
11. Walk Under Paris Covered Passages
Built mainly in the early 1800s, these arcades offered an elegant, sheltered world for strolling and shopping, well before department stores existed.
Hand in hand, you can wander past charming boutiques in Galerie Vivienne, vintage bookshops in Passage des Panoramas, and hidden cafés tucked inside Galerie Véro-Dodat.
These glass-roofed arcades shield you from the chill while still letting in soft natural light, creating a romantic atmosphere.
Strolling through Paris’ covered passages is a cozy way for couples to embrace winter together. That’s why you feel like stepping into another century when you enter them: you literally are!
12. Palais de Versailles
Is there a more romantic place in Paris than Palais de Versailles? We’re seriously asking. The gardens and the palace are equally magnificent.
This palace, with its sumptuous baroque decor from floor to ceiling, adorned with gold ochre and purple, and its thousand and one rooms, is enough to make anyone’s head spin.
Palais de Versailles was built in the 17th century and became the royal castle of 3 Kings of France. It’s home to so many romantic places, with hundreds of chandeliers, or the Hall of Mirrors…
This is one of the finest achievements of French art in the 17th century and has influenced architecture around the world.
13. Jardin des Plantes Greenhouses
Who said there’s no nature’s sightseeing in Paris in winter? Well, pretty much everyone since most trees and plants don’t have leaves anymore. However, we’ve got a fun indoor alternative!
The fabulous Jardin des Plantes, my favourite of all parks in Paris, displays all kinds of plants outdoors in spring and summer… But it is also home to two big greenhouses.
They have every plant you could think of, including tropical ones… And the green boost in the middle of winter is so welcome! We did this activity in winter when we first started dating and loved it.
Open: every day except Tuesdays, from 10AM to 6PM
Price: 7€ to 9€
14. Witness a Moulin Rouge’s Show
Looking for a once-in-a-lifetime evening? Moulin Rouge is as special as it looks. In the best possible way! Most Parisians have never been there, yet they should.
If you’re not familiar with this place, it’s the most typical French cabaret, where world-class dancers perform French cancan moves, among other dance styles.
They wear fabulous colorful costumes, and the sets are just as spectacular.
For the back story, I have been to MANY shows with my work. But I had never seen the Moulin Rouge’s until my grandmother asked me to take her there as a Christmas present. I went with her to keep her company… and I left the theater with my eyes wide with wonder! It was one of the most spectacular shows I’ve ever seen.
15. Explore Paris Catacombs
We hear you screaming that it’s not really romantic… Unless you like rushing into your partner’s arms when you’re scared, in which case it’s very romantic!
Jokes aside, Paris Catacombs are an extensive network of tunnels and ossuaries that date back to the late 18th century.
Today, visitors can descend into this eerie yet fascinating labyrinth. It’s a rare chance to explore Paris beneath the surface, combining history and mystery.
16. 59 Rivoli
Art date in Paris, anyone? 59 Rivoli is a unique art center… that was originally simply an abandoned building turned artistic squat at the beginning of the decade.
It’s simple: there are 6 floors. Each artist has its own room, and can live, create and exhibit all in one! This concept, called “squart” attracted many artists and quickly found its audience.
The artists change regularly, as do the works. It’s a superb artistic alternative to traditional museums!
Open: from Tuesday to Sunday from 1PM to 8PM
Price: free but donations are more than welcome
17. Cooking class of a French specialty
One of the best things to do in Paris for couples is a cooking class! And since we are in Paris, the capital of food, you have many options.
France is famous for so many culinary things, starting with crepes, bread, pains au chocolat and croissants, macaron cheese, wine… Paris has some specialties too, such as the Opéra cake, or soupe à l’oignon.
The choice is yours! We’ve selected some good options below.
18. Eat at a World-Class Restaurant
Having dinner in a Parisian restaurant is a romantic experience, especially in winter. Many bistros are cozy with soft lighting and quiet corners.
You can sit close, share French dishes, sip wine or hot chocolate, and enjoy the moment together. Sharing a dessert or trying something new together can make it even more special.
For a typical Parisian bistrot, we recommend one of the Bouillon. The most famous one is in Pigalle, but there are several others in other districts.
You can also opt for a restaurant with a Michelin star ⭐. Among the ones we tried, we loved Septime, Virtus et Ours (Vincennes) the most. Make a reservation in advance though!
Do they speak English in France? Here’s everything you should know to order at a restaurant!
19. Go on a Paris Seine River Dinner Cruise
A cruise on the Seine is a quiet and romantic way to see Paris. The river winds through the city past landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre.
Anukrati from Bulbul on the Wing shares her experience “on the boat, you can sit close to your partner, watch the city pass by, and enjoy a high-quality dinner. The slow pace makes it easy to talk, laugh, or just hold hands”.
Seeing Paris from the water feels calm and different from walking the streets, giving you both a chance to relax and enjoy the moment.
20. Get Lost in the Louvre Museum
Oh la la! The Louvre! The quintessential French museum is a must when you visit Paris, especially if you get a rainy winter day.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast or not, admiring some of the most important art pieces ever made is an opportunity that can’t be missed.
Located in the heart of the city, close to many other Parisian attractions, it is a must-see place that is iconic even from the outside.
Warning: the museum is huge! So prepare to walk a lot, although there are easy route guides to find the most famous pieces if you don’t want to spend the entire day there.
Open: every day except Tuesdays, from 9AM to 6PM, or 9PM on Wednesdays and Fridays
Price: 22€, or free for children under 18, students from 18 to 25
We recommend you to book tickets in advance so you avoid the on-the-day queues.
21. Marvel at the Impressionist Paintings of Musée de l’Orangerie
Since we’re talking about the cultural things to do in Paris with your partner, let’s talk about the favourite museum of our friend Juan from Planet of Adventures.
Located minutes away from the Louvre just across the Jardin des Tuileries, the Orangery Museum is much smaller in size, but contains some incredibly beautiful pieces.
For me, the most impactful paintings are the Water Lilies by Monet. The painting is huge in size and simply spectacular to admire.
You will also find works from Cezanne, Picasso, Renoir, Matisse and other famous impressionist painters. This is definitely a more intimate museum, ideal for couples.
Open: every day except Tuesdays from 9AM to 6PM
Price: 11€
22. Musée Carnavalet
If you’ve already visited the popular Louvre or Orsay museums, or if you’re looking for somewhere intimate, we’ve got your back. And it’s not any place: a museum about Paris history!
For couples, there’s a special pleasure in discovering a quieter museum like the Musée Carnavalet together.
Located in the Marais, its rooms are like a time capsule of Parisian life. It starts with Roman ruins, traveling through the Middle Ages and the Revolution, and ending with contemporary history.
Open: every day except Mondays from 10AM to 6PM
Price: permanent collections are free
23. Musée de la Contrefaçon (Museum of Counterfeiting)
You can also discover the Musée de la Contrefaçon, a small curiosity in the 16th arrondissement devoted to the strange world of counterfeit goods.
These lesser-known museums are more intimate and less crowded than their giant counterparts, perfect for comparing notes and sharing small discoveries.
With winter weather just beyond the entrance, feeling cosy and curious at the same time makes a visit even more intimate.
Open: from Monday to Friday from 2PM to 5:30PM
Price: 6€
24. Le Café des Chats
Le Café des Chats in Paris is the typical embodiment of Parisian charm. The atmosphere feels less like a trendy spot and more like the living room of a friend… who owns 13 (!) cats.
The lighting is warm, the furniture mismatched, and the food is surprisingly good for a cat café.
The cats roam freely among the tables, curl up in your lap, or stretch out on the armchairs as you sip your coffee.
You can just stop by for a drink and some cake, but it’s also a great spot for lunch or dinner (though the place can get quite busy during mealtimes).
Overall, this cute spot in the Marais neighborhood is the purr-fect date if you are both cat lovers.
Open: Tuesday to Sunday from 12PM to 10:30PM (Fridays and Saturdays until 11PM)
Price: free entrance, then you pay what you drink or eat
25. Shakespeare & Company
I’ve often seen Shakespeare & Company in Paris described as one of the most romantic bookstores in the world.
Once a hub for writers like James Joyce, Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Gertrude Stein, it is now a charmingly chaotic place. There are many narrow passageways, floor-to-ceiling books, dim lighting, old wood, and vintage furniture.
Even though this bookstore in the 5th arrondissement has become a tourist spot, you’ll find many little reading nooks where you can have your own secluded moment to leave through a book or talk quietly with your partner. Perfect for an afternoon date.
By the way, Shakespeare & Company was featured in the movies Before Sunset (2004) and Midnight in Paris (2011). Does it get any more romantic?
Open: 10AM to 9PM every day except on Sundays (12PM to 7PM)
Price: free entrance
26. Shopping and viewpoint at Galeries Lafayette
Shopping in Paris is one of the best activities on a cold and rainy winter day. And the beautiful and historic department store Galeries Lafayette is the best place to start.
If you’re exploring the French capital in December, you’ll not only get the chance to find the best Christmas presents for each other but you’ll also be lucky to see a huge Christmas tree and pretty decorations in the main hall of Galeries Lafayette. Plus, there’s also a nice rooftop terrace with a fantastic Eiffel Tower view!
Other great indoor shopping places in Paris are Le Bon Marché, Westfield Forum des Halles, and Le Printemps.
⭐ Bonus tip: If you’re in Paris between January 7 and February 3, 2026, you can take advantage of the official winter sales (“soldes d’hiver”), with major discounts available in big department stores.
27. Cafe Date in Parisian Cafés
One of the most romantic ways to experience winter in Paris is to step inside one of the cute Parisian cafés and enjoy a warm drink.
The inviting atmosphere, with comfortable seating and beautiful décor, makes it the perfect setting for spending some quality time together. And since there are fewer tourists this time of year, you can truly savor the café culture like locals – reading a book, enjoying a good conversation, or simply watching people passing by…
There are thousands of coffee shops all over Paris but the most iconic ones are Café de Flore, Les Deux Magots, Le Consulat, and Le Recrutement.
28. Hôtel de la Marine
The Hôtel de la Marine is one of Paris’s newer museums. It opened in 2021 and looks a lot like a miniature Versailles. Only, this time, you’re right on Place de la Concorde.
Its location couldn’t be better, being a few steps from the Champs-Élysées and within walking distance of the Louvre. It easily fits into a day of exploring Paris!
What I love most is how easy it is to visit. No need to book weeks ahead, no endless lines. Because it’s still under the radar, it still is pleasantly calm compared to the city’s big names.
Definitely take the audio guide. It makes it a much more engaging experience, weaving stories into the rooms you walk through. If you can, go towards the end of the day. In winter especially, it’s a perfect indoor escape from the cold.
We left the best part for the end: from the balcony, you can catch the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night on the hour. That alone makes the visit worth it!
Open: every day from 10AM to 7:30PM (extended hours on Friday evenings until 9 PM)
Price: 9€ to 17€ depending on the rooms you want to see
29. Spend a day at Disneyland Paris
Is there a more romantic activity than spending a day at Disneyland Paris with your partner? If you’re both Disney fans, or thrill lovers, this is the place to go.
The decor, the castle, the costumes, the atmosphere… There’s something magical about this place. Since it’s winter, wrap up warm and go and enjoy an unforgettable experience! At Christmas, everything is even more beautifully decorated.
30. Admire the Notre Dame Cathedral
Notre Dame in winter is simply magical. Paris in winter can get cold, meaning the majestic structures like Notre Dame cathedral twinkles, surrounded by sparkling lights, punctuating the dark winter sky.
This is a nice place to go to with your partner in Paris, as it offers a time of reflection and tranquillity. It also offers a festive photo opportunity, with cute couple pictures in front of an iconic landmark.
There is usually a large Christmas tree in front of the cathedral. The Notre Dame Christmas market in Square René Viviani, a park on the Left Bank, offers magical views of Notre Dame across the Seine.
Romantic Things to do in Winter in Paris: FAQ
What are the best areas to stay in Paris?
For those looking to be in the middle of action, stay in the 1 to 8th districts. If you are looking for quieter areas to feel like you’re a local and live the true parisian life, head to the 10-11th districts. Here are a few good options.
The stunning Hôtel Paris Bastille Boutet MGallery is located in a local area of the 11th district. It has wonderful rooms, staff, breakfast… and even a pool that you can enjoy all year-round!
➡️ Check availability and prices here
✔️ 8,6/10 based on these reviews
Closer to the center of Republique but still in the 11th district, you can stay at Le Général Hôtel. They have spacious rooms while being located in a lively neighborhood, with loads of metro lines and buses nearby.
➡️ Check availability and prices here
✔️ 9,2/10 based on these reviews
What is the weather like in Paris in winter?
Paris is rainy, but not as much as London. Paris is cold, but not as much as NYC. Jokes aside, if you are staying for a couple days, you’ll probably get a mixed weather between sun, clouds, and rain (no snow, however). Average winter temperatures range from 3°C to 11°C (37°F to 52°F).
Does it ever snow in Paris?
Let’s break the myth right away but saying the chances of seeing Paris under the snow are very small. I’ve been living in Paris for many years, and I’ve only seen the city under the snow a couple times.
It does snow at least once or twice every winter, but it’s so little that it does not stick to the ground for more than an hour after it stopped snowing.
What is the best winter month to visit Paris?
For Christmas-related events and decor, December is the best month to visit Paris in winter. February is when the city locals are the most alive, going to tons of concerts and events. On the other hand, January is the best month to avoid the crowds!
Romantic Things to do in Winter in Paris: Final Thoughts
There are a hundred romantic things to do in winter in Paris! We couldn’t list them all but we hope this list gave you a good idea of the different possibilities.
Eager to see more of France? Explore more than just Paris…
Visit the magnificent waterfalls of France, the stunning Gorges du Verdon canyon, the colorful Colorado Provençal, or the wine capital, Bordeaux.
