Paris Travel Guide
Add a little romance and sparkle to your winter getaway in the capital of love, Paris! The home of fine wine, fine food, and fine fashion, we adore the city any time of year. Yet in winter as we wrap up warm with hot chocolate and breathe the crisp winter air as we walk the Parisian streets, it definitely has that Je ne sais quoi that keeps us coming back for more. To get you started, here are our favorite things to do in winter in Paris:
Visit Versailles
Take in the splendor of the Palace and Estate of Versailles. The Palace has been recognized as a world heritage site for over 40 years, and was the home of French kings until the French Revolution in 1789. Since the 19th century, it has served as the Museum of the History of France. In addition to the exhibitions collections and shows, you can also explore the gardens, stables, park, and the estates.
Parisian Christmas Markets
Browse the stalls and take in the atmosphere of Paris at the Christmas markets! Sip hot mulled wine and sample the variety of French food as you hunt for Christmas gifts for loved ones. You won’t have to search for long as the markets pop up all over the city, although you can find a guide here of some of the best. Many markets also offer entertainment, fairground rides and arcades for a magical evening for all the family.
Paris Festival of Lights
Add even more sparkle to your festive season at the Paris Festival of Lights. Every year is themed and this year explores some extinct species as you travel through 500 million years of evolution. Some of the lights displays are over 30 meters long! As you finish your tour, you’ll walk by hand painted lanterns in the Jardin des Plantes. Simply stunning!
Musee D’Orsay
Once the Orsay railway station, the Musee D’Orsay is now the home of some of the finest collections of French art and sculptures mainly dating from 1848 to 1914. It is said that the building itself is also a work of art and it sits proudly on the banks of the river Seine. The museum is currently ranked 15th globally and is a must see for art history buffs!
Travel to France and Coronavirus
We recommend checking on current travel advice from the French government before you travel, to confirm entry requirements and local restrictions as a result of the Coronavirus global pandemic. The latest information can be found here. Note that entry to attractions may also have additional requirements for vaccinations and testing Remember also to check if there are any additional requirements for reentry to your home country from France to avoid travel disruptions.