Paris in January: What to Wear, Do, and Expect in the New Year

Paris in January is quiet and deeply Parisian. After the celebrations of December, the city exhales. Locals reclaim their cafés, museums become peaceful again, and a crisp winter calm sets the tone. If you’re looking for lower prices, fewer tourists, and a true taste of everyday Paris — January is a beautiful moment to visit.

Empty Parisian street with elegant architecture and morning light — The peaceful calm of Rue de Seine in winter.

What the Weather Is Like in Paris in January

January is the coldest month of the year in Paris. Snow is rare but possible, and most days are gray, brisk, and damp. January is the coldest month of the year in Paris. Expect gray skies, chilly days, and plenty of moisture in the air. Snow is rare but possible — and magical when it happens.

Average temperatures: 3°C to 7°C (37°F to 45°F)
Typical weather: Cold, damp, overcast with occasional light rain

What this means for you:
Layer smartly and keep warm — Paris rewards those who dress for winter.

What to Wear in Paris in January

Woman wearing a brown wool coat, white tee, and straight-leg jeans — a chic example of what to wear in Paris in winter. — A long wool coat and straight-leg jeans — effortless Parisian winter style. Photo source: Pinterest

Parisians lean into winter style in January: tailored coats, long scarves, knitwear, leather boots, and rich, dark color palettes. Think texture and structure.

Here’s what to pack:

A wool or down coat
Sweaters, turtlenecks, and thermal layers
Waterproof leather boots or weather-resistant sneakers
Warm accessories: scarf, gloves, hat
A small umbrella and a crossbody bag

For full winter outfit inspiration → What to Wear in Paris in Winter
Want to master accessories? → French Scarf Style: The Best Parisian Scarves

What to Do in Paris in January

January is made for indoor pleasures, slow mornings, and discovering Paris at a gentler pace.

Cultural Highlights

New exhibitions launch in museums like Musée d’Orsay, Palais Galliera, or Fondation Louis Vuitton
Fête de la Galette des Rois (Epiphany – early January): Try the almond-filled galette des rois in every bakery—it’s a cultural ritual
Cultural outings: Catch a play, ballet, or classical concert—indoors is where the magic happens

Art installation with lampshades hanging from trees in Place de Furstenberg — A touch of whimsy in Saint-Germain: art installations in Place de Furstenberg.

Shopping & Sales

Colorful flower display outside Oz Garden florist in Paris — Seasonal bouquets and vibrant cyclamen brighten even the grayest days.

Les Soldes d’Hiver (Winter Sales): The official winter sales usually start around the second week of January and last about four weeks. It’s a fantastic time to score deals on French fashion, lingerie, and beauty.

My Saint-Germain Shopping Itinerary is especially useful during the sales—avoid the chaos and discover timeless, curated spots.

Parisian Winter Rituals

Slow café mornings: Bring a book to Coutume, Claus, or Café de Flore
Museum hopping: January is blissfully uncrowded—wander the Louvre, Musée de l’Orangerie, or Musée Carnavalet at your own pace
Spa afternoons: Book a massage or facial at Maison Sisley, Spa Nuxe Montorgueil, or Cheval Blanc Paris for post-holiday restoration

Corner café in Paris with striped awning and winter trees — Café terraces remain open year-round in Paris—even in January.

Paris Events in January

Fête de la Galette des Rois (early January): Celebrate Epiphany with puff pastry + almond cream—and a hidden charm inside each cake
Les Soldes d’Hiver: The French government-regulated winter sales begin in mid-January and offer real deals in both big stores and small boutiques
Paris Fashion Week – Menswear and Haute Couture: If your dates align, you might spot street style moments or designers around Palais de Tokyo and the Marais

Travel Tips for Visiting Paris in January

Book accommodations with heating you can control—charming old hotels aren’t always the warmest
Pack warm layers, not just pretty coats—indoor spaces can be chilly too
Expect shorter days—sunset is around 5:30pm, so plan accordingly and enjoy long, leisurely evenings

Where to Stay in Paris in January

Chic Parisian hotel room with French decor and glass divider — For cozy elegance, consider a Left Bank stay like Hotel des Saints Pères.

Look for warm, stylish spaces that invite you to stay in. Quiet streets and great breakfasts are a plus in this reflective season.

Hotel des Saints-Pères (6th arrondissement): Elegant and peaceful, near great winter cafés and shops
Maison Proust (3rd arrondissement): Lavish, literary, and moody in all the right ways—perfect for a cozy winter escape
Hotel La Demeure Montaigne (8th arrondissement): Central, refined, and complete with a spa to help you unwind post-holiday

Visiting Paris in January? Don’t Miss This

Download my Saint-Germain Shopping Itinerary for a chic, efficient route through the neighborhood’s best boutiques, cozy cafés, and timeless finds. Perfect for winter sales season—or simply enjoying a stylish afternoon indoors.

Get the Itinerary

FAQs

Is January a good time to visit Paris?
Yes, if you prefer fewer crowds, better prices, and a quiet, introspective atmosphere. It’s less glamorous, more authentic.

Is Paris cold in January?
Yes—bundle up! But the city is built for beauty in every season.

What’s open in Paris in January?
Most things are! Restaurants, museums, shops, and cafés operate normally after the New Year’s break.

Paris in January: What to Wear, Do, and Expect in the New Year

What the Weather Is Like in Paris in January

What to Wear in Paris in January