Paris in January 2026: What to See, Eat, Pack & Do!

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January in Paris might be the closest the city gets to a quieter period. The New Year’s crowd has dispersed, and the buzz of Fashion Week is yet to begin. It’s a time when locals are easing back into their daily routines after the festive season.

In this article, I will share with you everything you need to know before traveling to Paris in January:

Weather Info & Packing Tips
Seasonal Travel Tricks
Events & Things to do in January

Salut, I am Lena – Travel Planning Expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

So, is January a great time to visit Paris? Absolutely! With fewer tourists, you get a more authentic feel of the city. It’s a chance to explore Paris at a relaxed pace, enjoying its charming cafés and stunning landmarks without the usual hustle.

It’s a unique opportunity to see a different, more serene side of Paris. For many it is even one of the best months to visit Paris.

You might also be interested in these articles if you plan a trip to Paris in January:

This image shows a serene scene at the Jardin des Tuileries in Paris, featuring an outdoor seating area with several green metal chairs scattered around a water fountain. In the background, the historic Louvre Museum stands tall against a bright blue sky, adding a classic Parisian atmosphere. The chairs, some upright and others tilted, invite relaxation while overlooking the peaceful water and architectural beauty. — ^{The Tuileries Garden in Paris – The weather can be so sunny, but you see that it’s actually freezing. A lovely day!}

Everything you need to know for January in Paris

There are always plenty of things to do in Paris, and it surely won’t be boring. Chances are that you have more plans and ideas than time.

Hence, from a sightseeing and activity standpoint, January is a wonderful time to visit Paris as it is indeed slightly lesser crowded than at any other time of the year.

How are the Crowds in Paris in January?

If you travel to Paris in January, you’ll be happy to hear that after New Year, you have the rare occasion to experience something like a low season. Don’t expect to find a deserted city though, where you stroll alone along the boulevards. Paris is not empty, but it is as empty as it gets.

Nevertheless, I recommend that you are preparing your trip and book tickets to the most popular sights in advance. The good time slots are always quickly sold out and on the ticket booth are always queues.

Below is a list of sights that have either the longest queues or are sold out often weeks in advance:

Here is a list with sights that sell out the quickest:

Louvre – avoid the ticket queues in December: GetYourGuide ┃Viator
Eiffel Tower – head up to the summit: GetYourGuide ┃Viator
Musée d’Orsay – sold out on a short notice GetYourGuide ┃Viator
Château de Versailles – queues onsite all year round: GetYourGuide ┃Viator

(Prices can vary, it’s best if you compare)

This image captures the elegant, sunlit arcade of the Palais Royal in Paris. The long corridor is lined with tall, evenly spaced arches, casting shadows across the intricately tiled floor. Ornate hanging lanterns and iron gates enhance the classic architectural style, while a few pedestrians walk in the distance, adding a sense of quiet movement to the peaceful scene. The warm sunlight filtering through creates a beautiful play of light and shadow. — ^{taking a walk at Palais Royal is nice no matter the season}

CHECKLIST for your Paris Trip

Get a Travel Adapter
Book your airport transfer

🚨 Get Travel Insurance
Buy your SIM card in advance

How’s the Weather in Paris in January?

January in Paris means mostly short and cold days. The temperature in Paris in January rarely rises above 6 °C (42.6 °F) and to top it all: it is also one of the most humid months. It is even the one with the least sunshine.

But after establishing that January is not the month for extensive outdoor activities, sunny picnics, or romantic bike rides, it is still a good time to visit Paris.

Especially if you are both: keen on sightseeing and prepared for the weather.

This image shows a quaint, cobblestone street in the Montmartre district of Paris, featuring classic French architecture. A vintage light blue Citroën car is parked on the side, adding a nostalgic touch, while another black car is further up the road. The street is lined with cream-colored buildings, shutters, and balconies, leading up to a distinctive tower in the distance. The scene exudes a calm, old-world charm typical of the Montmartre neighborhood. — a grey january day in Paris

What to wear in Paris in January 2026?

January is the time of the year when you should absolutely not forget your warm winter clothes. You will often read that you even need to bring thermals for your winter trip to Paris, and I honestly don’t know about this.

It is indeed getting cold, especially at night and if you easily feel chilly, thermals are probably good to have. But you will as well spend much time indoors, and it’s typically SO warm in stores, museums, and restaurants.

This is my personal recommendation, but I’d rather wear good (!) warm socks (I wear these ones in January) and potentially a silk pantyhose under my jeans than slow cooking in my thermals as soon as I want to grab a bite somewhere. This is still Paris, not Antarctica.

When packing for your trip to Paris this January, make sure you pack the following items to defy the Paris January weather:

Waterproof Shoes: these Chelsea boots are waterproof, and are great to dress up and down.
Warm Merino Socks: These ones were a real game changer for: They feel like normal socks but keep you warm, without over heating, and they prevent blisters.
A small travel umbrella: This umbrella fits in every purse
A hat and a scarf: A cold breeze is very frequent in Paris and you definitely need something to keep your head warm in January

Order here

Order here (my favorite)

Order waterproof shoes here

5 Best things to do in Paris in January 2026

If you booked your trip to visit Paris in January, you’ll be happy to know that everything is open and a tad less busy than at other times of the year. However, keep in mind that:

Many sights and activities are running on a winter schedule and close a bit earlier than in summer.
In January (and February) the river Seine often swells. The floods can reach heights that make it impossible for the Seine Cruises to operate. If you intend to take a Cruise, book either on shorter notice or over a provider like GetYourGuide.com as they offer a great hassle-free refund policy.

This image showcases a peaceful scene along the Seine River in Paris, with moored houseboats lining the riverbank. The distant view includes the iconic Pont Neuf bridge, which stretches across the water, framed by the historic architecture of Paris under a clear blue sky. Bare winter trees line the river's edge, adding a quiet, reflective mood to the scene, while the calm water gently reflects the surroundings. The words "Salut from Paris" are visible in the lower-left corner of the image. — ^{What to do in Paris January 2026? Maybe not a Cruise: The Seine runs high in January and February and makes Seine Cruises often impossible.}

#1 Visit the finest Parisian museums

Save time and money: book the Paris Museums Pass here

If you want to admire some of the most important masterpieces of history while visiting Paris in January, you came at the best time.

Not only will museums in Paris save you from the rain and the cold, but you also have the best chances to explore Paris museums without massive crowds.

I suggest you take a look at the Paris Museums Pass that grants you free entrance to more than 60 most impressive Museums of Paris and is financially very intriguing. It already pays off if you’d only visited these 5 Paris highlights, but check the benefits here for yourself.

The Louvre (book here)
Panthéon (book here)
Musée d’Orsay (book here)
Sainte-Chapelle (book here)
the Versailles Palace (book here)

This image captures the famous sculpture "Winged Victory of Samothrace" displayed in the Louvre Museum in Paris. The marble statue depicts Nike, the Greek goddess of victory, standing atop the prow of a ship. Visitors are gathered around the artwork, some wearing masks, admiring the iconic and ancient masterpiece. The statue’s grandeur is enhanced by the minimalist, light-toned walls of the museum hall, providing a striking contrast to its detailed, flowing form. The text "salutfromparis" is visible in the lower-left corner. — January is your chance to see the Louvre with lesser crowds

#2 Discover the Covered Passages and Arcades

See our complete guide to the Arcades of Paris for more information

Paris is made for strolling, even when the weather in Paris in January is not the most inviting. A stellar way to defy the season and still be promenading is by exploring the beautiful covered passages.

Paris has dozens of hidden galleries and passages. Many of them are restored relics from the Belle Epoche, with its stained-glass ceilings, beautiful mosaics, and iron latticework. They are true hidden gems of Paris.

The covered galleries are not only offering shelter on rainy days, but they are also excellent places to shop or to take a break in one of the many cute cafés. The most known is undoubtedly the Galerie Vivienne that – by the way – is not only gorgeous it’s also where you find one of the best cocktail bars in Paris, Danico!

You can explore the galleries on your own, or you download a guided tour that helps you navigate and assures you’re not missing anything. Click here for more info.

This image depicts the Galerie Vivienne, a historic covered passage in Paris, beautifully adorned with twinkling lights draped across the windows and walls. The intricate mosaic floor complements the tall glass ceiling, allowing natural light to filter into the space. Elegant storefronts with large windows line the passage, creating a festive and charming atmosphere as a single person walks in the distance. The combination of classic architecture and holiday decor makes this passage a picturesque Parisian spot. — The light-flooded covered passages in Paris are letting you forget the low temperatures in Paris in January

#3 Enjoy the view from the Eiffel Tower

Book your refundable tickets to the Eiffel Tower here.

A trip to Paris is incomplete without enjoying the marvelous views from the iconic Eiffel Tower.

If you are traveling to Paris in January 2026 you have to know that the summit of the Eiffel Tower is closed for work. But don’t be too disappointed, the 2nd floor is open, and the views are equally spectacular. You can reserve your spot on the lift here.

The cheapest ticket option to reach the visitors’ platform on the 2nd floor is by taking the stairs. If you are keen on saving some money, just keep in mind that it might be icy and blustery in the open staircase.

This image offers a classic view of the Eiffel Tower from a narrow Parisian street lined with elegant buildings and parked cars. The cobblestone street leads the eye directly to the iconic landmark, framed by historic architecture on both sides. The tower looms majestically against the bright sky, while pedestrians can be seen strolling in the distance near the base of the Eiffel Tower. The text "salut from paris" is visible in the lower-left corner of the image. — Eiffel Tower January 2026! There are sunny days in Paris in January, but don’t get tricked – it had been icy!

#4 Take a baking or cooking class with a Parisian Chef

Explore all cooking and pastry baking classes in Paris or book directly this one at the Galerie Lafayette. I was lucky enough to take this class in early 2023, and it was great!

Nothing is better for beating the cold than indulging in comforting hot and delicious French Cuisine. Especially if you just learned how to prepare them yourself.

Guided by a Parisian Chef, you learn how to cook a delicious French meal, from choosing the best fresh products to applying fine techniques, a cooking class in Paris brings your kitchen skills to the next level.

This image is a split composition. On the left, a woman stands in front of a mirror taking a selfie, wearing an apron that says "Galeries Lafayette." The background shows a clean, spacious room with tables and stools, likely a cooking or baking setting. On the right, there is a close-up of a macaron, freshly filled with a creamy filling, alongside a piping bag in the background. The text "Salut from Paris" is visible in the lower-left corner of the image. — my very first Macaron

#5 Take a day trip to the magical Loire Castles

Book your day trip to the Loire Castles here

If you have a spare day, and you wonder what else you could do during your trip to Paris in January, I suggest considering a day trip from Paris.

While some of the most popular day-trip destinations are not suitable for Winter, one certainly is: a trip to the castles in the Loire Valley. I visited the castles myself in December, and it was a terrific experience, despite the cold.

One of the most popular tours to the Loire Valley from Paris is this one. It contains transportation from Paris, entrance fees to 2 beautiful castles, a visit to the town Blois, and a wine tasting. Book this magical trip here.

Paris in Januar, a good time to take a day trip from Paris — The Chenonceau Castle – one of the most beautiful castles in the Loire Valley

Also, take a look at our article about the best and easiest day trips from Paris by train to get more ideas.

What’s going on in Paris in January 2026?

You’ll never get bored when in Paris. From exhibitions, concerts, and seasonal events to holidays and traditional festivities—the Paris event calendar is not letting you catch your breath.

Until mid Jan – Festival of Lights 2026

After being a big success in previous years, the Festival of Lights goes into 7ht round this season. The Jardin de Plantes transforms into an illuminated magical universe, filled with creatures and sculptures.

The exhibition ends on the 18th January and requires online reservation.

This image features the Château de Chenonceau, an iconic French castle spanning the River Cher. The elegant Renaissance-style structure is built on arches over the river, reflecting its white stone facade in the water below. The sky is partly cloudy, adding depth to the picturesque scene, and the castle’s grand towers and detailed architecture stand out against the natural surroundings of trees and water. The overall composition highlights the beauty and historical significance of this famous Loire Valley landmark. — Photo by Frédéric O. Boulay from Oaktown Productions

01 Jan – New Year’s Day

The 1st of January is, like in many other countries, a public holiday in France. You find stores, many restaurants, and even the Louvre closed on this day, but there are still many wonderful things to do. The Eiffel Tower, for example, is open!

Read as well our post on what to do on New Year’s Day in Paris, to know exactly what to do on the first day of the year.

Tip: The 1st of January is the last day of the Christmas Market in the Tuileries garden

06. Jan – Galette du Roi – Epiphany on the 6th of January

On the 6th of January, it’s time for the Galette du Roi in France. The French celebrate Epiphany traditionally with a Galette du Roi, a puff pastry tart filled with marzipan that is shared between friends and family. You get it at every bakery in Paris.

The Galette comes with a twist, though!

Each tart contains a little baked-in figurine (la fève) and the lucky one who finds it in his slice is the appointed king/queen — they even get a crown!

This image displays a traditional Galette des Rois, a French puff pastry pie, resting on a wooden board with a golden paper crown placed on top. The pie's flaky, golden-brown crust is highlighted, while a knife lies beside it, ready for slicing. In the background, a red-and-white checkered cloth adds a cozy touch, and small festive trinkets can be seen nearby. This pastry is typically enjoyed during the Epiphany celebration in France. — The Galette du Roi with the crown and the little baked-in figurine

04. Jan – Car-free Sunday & Free Admission to many Museums.

The center of Paris transforms into a massive pedestrian area. Under the slogan “Paris Breathes” motorized vehicles are prohibited in many parts of Paris. From the Champs Élysée to the Hôtel de Ville – pedestrians only!

As it’s also the first Sunday of the month, many Parisian Museums are free. Check here to see which ones are participating.

7. Jan – Winter Sales 2026

Shortly after the holiday season comes the sales season. Bargain hunters should mark January 7th red on their calendars, as this is when the sales start.

There is no store that doesn’t participate, and you find nice reductions on, regardless of what you are looking for: shoes, designer fashion, bags, but also kitchenware, decoration, .. Everything.

This image features a clothing rack with a selection of neatly arranged garments in neutral tones, including whites, grays, and light patterns. The clothes are hung on white hangers, and a prominent red sale tag is attached to the rack, drawing attention to the promotion. The minimalist design and soft color palette give the image a clean, modern aesthetic, perfect for conveying a stylish clothing sale. — ^{Shop until you drop in winter sales in Paris in January}

The sales are from 7 January to 3 February 2026 and prices are dropping week after week.

15. -19 Jan – Maison & Object Expo

The 30th edition of Maison & Objet in Paris is an unmissable event for anyone passionate about design. This renowned convention serves as a vibrant hub for creativity and inspiration, showcasing the latest trends in interior design, home decor, and lifestyle products.

20. Jan – Fashion Week 2026

The 2026 Fashion week kicks off with men’s fashion week on the 20th, followed by Haute-Couture on the 28th.

You find fashion events all over town, but even if you are not joining any shows (most are invite-only), you will certainly notice it’s Fashion Week: Hotels & restaurants are full and there are noticeable more amazingly and /or fashionably dressed people in Paris.

Make sure to make your dinner reservations early! You also find often free shows in the Tuileries garden and at the Caroussel du Louvre.

25 Jan – Taversée de Paris en Anciennes

If you are strolling through Paris this Sunday, you might be surprised to see so many oldtimer cars all around town. But don’t worry, you did not travel to another century mistakenly, it’s the “Paris crossing the old-fashioned way” day.

More than 700 old vehicles – cars, motorbikes, bicycles, buses, and even tractors—are out for their big winter showing. They drive by some of the most famous sites of Paris before ending their trail at the Château de Vincennes.

24th and 25th January – Saint-Jacques Scallop Festival in Montmartre

At the Scallop Festival in Montmartre, you’ll experience a celebration of products from the French Brittany region, with scallops taking center stage. You can also enjoy traditional Breton treats like crepes, kouign-amann, and other regional specialties in a laid-back, festive atmosphere.

This image shows a woman bundled up in a beanie and scarf, holding a skewer of grilled scallops, likely at the Scallop Festival in Montmartre. Behind her, bare trees and a rustic brick building can be seen, creating a cozy, wintry outdoor setting. The text "Salut from Paris" with a heart is visible in the lower-left corner. — yum!

Voilà, Paris in January. A bit cold, maybe a bit wet, but still absolutely worth a trip. Just pack the right, clothes and enjoy Paris without the big crowds.

Want more Paris recommendations? Here’s my free Google Map with 200+ spots 🗺️

À bientôt,

Lena

Parisienne since 2006 🇫🇷
Sharing Paris life, French culture, cafés, food & honest travel tips

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NEW: The Salut from Paris Travel Guide:

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Paris Travel Tips

Must-Haves for Paris:

eSim card to stay online while in Paris. I used Airalo for my travels.
You likely need a travel adapter to plug your devices.
Travel Insurance – if you don’t have one, VisitorsCoverage is a good option.
If your flight is delayed or even canceled, use AirHelp to get compensation.

Tours & Attractions:

I book tours & activities through Get Your Guide or Viator.
Museum & Landmark tickets can be cheaper on the official page, but they are often sold out.
I love the GoCity Travel Passes for easy planning

Flights & Transportation:

I use Omio to compare flight fares & connections
Airport transfers I book through Welcome Pickup
For car rentals, I use AutoEurope. It’s easy to compare prices
Train Tickets, you can book through Omio
Here’s my Parisian Metro Guide

Accomodation:

Hotels in Europe I mostly book through Booking.com (check reviews carefully)
Vacation Rentals through Airbnb or VRBO

PS: Check out these posts, they will help you plan your trip to Paris

FAQ Paris in January

Is Paris really cold in January?

January is one of the coldest months in Paris and you can expect temperatures around 5°C to 7°C (low to mid 40s°F).

Is January a good time to visit France?

If you don’t mind the cool weather, January is a wonderful time to visit France. Is the months when you have the fewest crowds and waiting time and you can be lucky to find cheaper hotels and airfare.

Is everything open in Paris in January?

Yes, everything is open in Paris in January. You might find some attractions running on a winter schedule and closing a bit earlier than in summer though.

Is it snowing in Paris in January?

Snow is overall very rare in Paris but January is one of the coldest and wettest months so there is a chance of snow during January.

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