Paris in February is a city transformed. While summer crowds queue for hours at the Eiffel Tower, and the heat of August drives locals to the countryside, February offers something far more precious: Paris as Parisians experience it. The trees are bare, café terraces are warmed by heat lamps, and the city reveals its most intimate self to those willing to brave the winter chill.
While you may be trading warm weather for authentic experiences, beach picnics for cozy wine bars, and endless sunshine for the characteristic Parisian gray that beautifully highlights the city’s architecture—reminiscent of a Monet painting—the benefits are significant.
What you gain during this time is immeasurable: you’ll encounter 50-70% fewer tourists compared to the peak season, benefit from significantly lower accommodation prices, and have the chance to contemplate the Mona Lisa without being crowded by tour groups. This Paris travel guide covers the best things to do in Paris this February, from iconic attractions to hidden local favorites.
1. Ascend the Eiffel Tower Without the Crowds
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The Eiffel Tower remains a must-see Paris tourist attraction, even for seasoned travelers who may feel indifferent about its popularity. However, visiting in February offers unique advantages that can turn this iconic site from a mere tourist obligation into a truly enjoyable experience. During this time, you’ll only need to wait about 20 to 30 minutes, rather than the typical three hours. Additionally, the indoor observation decks offer a warm refuge, making them among the top things to do in Paris, especially when the wind picks up.
Book your summit tickets online several weeks in advance for €29.40 for adults. You can visit either at the opening (9:30 AM) or after 6 PM, when the tower sparkles. One evening, consider skipping the tower itself and instead watching the light show from Trocadéro Gardens. The view is better, it’s free, and you’ll see why Paris earned its nickname as the “City of Light.”
2. Actually See the Mona Lisa at the Louvre
On a rainy February afternoon—and you can expect several during this time—the Louvre Museum stands out as one of the fun things to do in Paris. With 72,735 square meters of exhibition space, you could easily spend weeks exploring, but most visitors only have a few hours. To make the most of your visit, arrive when the museum opens at 9 AM. Start by heading to the less-crowded wings, such as the French Romantic paintings, the Islamic Art galleries, or Napoleon III’s opulent apartments. Then, circle back to the iconic artworks around 11 AM, after the early crowds have thinned out.
The Mona Lisa is inevitably underwhelming (it’s smaller than you imagine, behind bulletproof glass, and surrounded by smartphones). However, experiencing Géricault’s “The Raft of the Medusa” or Delacroix’s “Liberty Leading the People” without crowds is truly the reason to visit Paris. The museum entrance fee is €22, but it is free on the first Sunday of each month. Additionally, they offer late hours on Friday nights until 9 PM, which is the ideal time to appreciate the palace’s almost eerie grandeur.
3. Admire Notre-Dame's Gothic Grandeur
Notre-Dame Cathedral triumphantly reopened in December 2024 following five years of painstaking restoration after the devastating 2019 fire. The Gothic masterpiece on Île de la Cité is now free to visit, though you’ll need to reserve a time slot online in advance at notredamedeparis.fr to manage crowds. The towers reopened to the public on September 20, 2025, offering spectacular views of Paris for those willing to climb the 387 steps (€11).
Nearby Sainte-Chapelle offers another Gothic experience—its 15 stained-glass windows create a kaleidoscope of colored light even on gray days. Combined tickets with the Conciergerie (Marie Antoinette’s prison) cost €18.50. What should you not miss in Paris? These medieval masterpieces offer architectural history you can’t find anywhere else, and now, with Notre-Dame’s reopening, you can experience the full glory of Paris’s most famous cathedral once again.
4. Conquer the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe commands attention from the center of Place Charles de Gaulle, where 12 avenues radiate outward in a star pattern. Climb the 284 steps (€13) for commanding views down the Champs-Élysées—particularly magical at dusk when street lamps illuminate the avenue. Although the Champs-Élysées can be quite touristy, the nearby side streets are home to excellent bistros. Walking from the Arc de Triomphe to Place de la Concorde is also a classic experience in Paris.
5. Watch Sunset from Sacré-Cœur
The Sacré-Cœur Basilica stands majestically over Montmartre, resembling a white wedding cake and visible from many viewpoints across Paris. This Romano-Byzantine church is free to enter (please consider donating if you can), but there is a €7 fee to climb the dome, which offers some of the finest panoramic views of the city. In February, you can enjoy manageable crowds, even on the famous steps where street artists create portraits and musicians perform.
The surrounding Montmartre neighborhood, with its village-like streets, ivy-covered walls, and the famously photographed Rue de l’Abreuvoir, feels almost provincial during winter. Begin your visit at the basilica around sunset, then explore Montmartre’s bistros and wine bars as night falls.
6. Cruise the Seine at Twilight (The Most Romantic Option)
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Seine River dinner cruises can vary greatly in quality and price, typically ranging from €50 to over €200. Here’s a helpful tip: instead of a dinner cruise, consider booking an early evening champagne cruise from 6 to 7 PM, which typically costs between €15 and €25. During this cruise, you’ll glide past illuminated landmarks while sipping Veuve Clicquot, allowing you to avoid the typical tourist-trap meals. This experience is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris; watching the city glide by from the water as the lights start to twinkle creates unforgettable memories.
While spontaneous moments often create the best memories, if you’re looking for something special, consider couples photography at iconic bridges. Pont Alexandre III, with its Art Nouveau lamps and gilded statues, or Pont des Arts, known for its love lock legacy (though the locks are now prohibited, the bridge remains incredibly photogenic), offer stunning backdrops. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, you can hire a local photographer for about €150 to €300 for an hour.
7. Toast Valentine's Day at Champagne Bars
In Paris, couples can find intimacy and indulgence at champagne bars located in the Marais district. Notable spots include Café Charlot, La Belle Hortense—a charming bookshop and wine bar hybrid—and Le Mary Celeste, all of which offer excellent selections by the glass. For Valentine’s Day, Le Perchoir rooftop bars (with multiple locations) provide stunning skyline views and craft cocktails. Consider commissioning a street artist in Montmartre to create a couple’s portrait, or simply enjoy a bottle of wine on the steps of Sacré-Cœur at sunset.
8. Descend into the Catacombs
The Catacombs contain the remains of six million Parisians in tunnels beneath the city—an experience that is both macabre and fascinating. The official ossuary tour (€15, book online weeks in advance) guides you through corridors lined with bones, where skulls are arranged in decorative patterns and inscriptions reflect on mortality.
It’s cold year-round, so be sure to bring a jacket. The space can feel somewhat claustrophobic, so it’s best to skip this if you’re sensitive to tight spaces. However, visiting in February means smaller crowds, making it a unique option for those looking to explore beyond traditional tourist attractions. Plan to spend about 1.5 to 2 hours for the underground journey.
9. Explore Street Art in the 13th Arrondissement
Walking tours of street art in the 13th arrondissement showcase Paris’s vibrant contemporary creative energy. Massive murals by internationally renowned artists adorn the façades of buildings, turning social housing blocks into open-air galleries. Tours last 2 to 3 hours and cost between €20 and €35. Alternatively, you can explore the area on your own, starting at Boulevard Vincent Auriol. Consider combining your exploration with lunch at one of the neighborhood’s authentic Asian restaurants, as the 13th arrondissement is known as Paris’s Chinatown.
10. Hunt Treasures in Le Marais Vintage Shops
Vintage shopping in Le Marais can easily take days. Stores like Episode, Kiliwatch, and Free’p’Star feature carefully curated selections of second-hand designer pieces. Additionally, smaller boutiques on Rue de Turenne and Rue des Rosiers contain hidden treasures. During February sales, vintage shops offer serious bargains—perfect for those willing to search patiently.
Combine shopping with a coffee break at either Broken Arm or Café Oberkampf. This activity is one of the enjoyable things to do in Paris that doesn’t require museum tickets or tour reservations. If you’re serious about finding great pieces, plan to spend at least half a day on this experience.
11. Master French Pastry Techniques
Photo by Svitlana Shakalova from Pexels
French pastry workshops simplify the art of making croissants, macarons, and éclairs. Cooking classes, which cost between €90 and €150 for 2 to 3 hours, are offered by venues such as La Cuisine Paris and by Le Cordon Bleu‘s amateur programs. These classes teach techniques that you’ll use for a lifetime. By the end, you will leave with new skills, recipes, and a greater respect for the precision of French pâtissiers.
12. Experience Moulin Rouge (or Better Jazz Clubs)
For evening entertainment, the Moulin Rouge cabaret offers a spectacular show (€87-420 depending on the package), though it can be quite touristy. For a more authentic experience, visit jazz clubs in Le Marais, such as Le Caveau de la Huchette, where locals dance to live swing music in medieval cellars. The cover charge is between €15 and €20; please note it’s cash only.
English-language comedy shows at venues like The Laughing Matters draw in expats and visitors with their surprisingly sophisticated performances. Night bicycle tours, priced between €35 and €45 and lasting three hours, offer a glimpse of illuminated Paris from a local’s perspective. These tours are among the most adventurous things to do in Paris, rewarding those willing to brave the February cold.
13. Sail Wooden Boats at Luxembourg Gardens
The Jardin du Luxembourg serves as the family hub in Paris. The playground, which charges €3.50 per child, includes climbing structures and vintage rides. Puppet shows are offered in French on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays and are enjoyable regardless of language barriers. Additionally, the pond where children can sail rented wooden boats—at a cost of €6 for 30 minutes—has delighted generations since the 1920s.
The park features carousel rides, pony rides, and ample green space for running. On chilly February days, the nearby Musée du Luxembourg hosts family-friendly temporary exhibitions in a compact space. These activities are ideal for enjoying Paris with kids, ensuring that little legs don’t get too tired and adult patience remains intact.
14. Get Hands-On at Cité des Sciences
The Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie in Parc de la Villette is one of Europe’s top science museums. It features engaging exhibits on space, sound, light, and mathematics, designed for children ages 2 to 12, with numerous hands-on experiments. The planetarium showcases constellations overhead, and the Cité des Enfants sections are specifically tailored for ages 2-7 and 5-12. Admission fees are €12 for adults and €9 for children; advance booking is required.
Set aside 3 to 4 hours for this activity. In February, the indoor focus makes it especially valuable for families. Toddlers will appreciate parks and puppet shows, elementary-aged children love interactive museums, and teenagers are drawn to art, fashion, and urban culture.
15. Make (and Eat) Chocolate
Chocolate museum workshops at venues like Musée Gourmand du Chocolat teach kids (and adults) to make chocolates that are not only fun to create but also delicious to eat. These engaging experiences, priced at €20-€30 per person, combine education on cocoa’s origins with the enjoyable process of crafting and enjoying your own truffles.
16. Pay Respects at Père Lachaise Cemetery
Photo by Lalocracio from Getty Images
One of the most underrated activities in Paris is exploring Père Lachaise Cemetery. This 110-acre cemetery serves as a peaceful sculpture garden, where the graves of famous figures such as Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, Édith Piaf, and Chopin draw visitors. However, the tranquil paths beneath ancient trees offer a beautiful, contemplative experience away from the crowds.
February’s bare branches and misty mornings create an atmospheric ambiance. Entry is free, with maps available at entrances for €3 or via downloadable apps. Budget 2-3 hours for a thorough visit. This is Paris, stripped of its performative elements—genuine, historic, and surprisingly moving.
17. Stroll Canal Saint-Martin
The Canal Saint-Martin neighborhood in the 10th arrondissement remains surprisingly free of tourists, despite its increasing gentrification. With tree-lined canals, iron footbridges, and lock systems, it evokes an almost Amsterdam-like atmosphere. Locals enjoy picnics along the quays during the warmer months, while winter brings cozy wine bars, independent bookshops, and cafés where residents can be found working on their laptops.
Walk from République to Bassin de la Villette, stopping at concept stores and vintage boutiques. This experience offers authentic things to do in Paris, free from the tourist veneer—just Parisians living their daily lives in one of the city’s most charming neighborhoods.
18. Discover Covered Passages
The covered passages, known as galeries couvertes, are the precursor to modern shopping malls in Paris. These 19th-century glass-roofed arcades connected buildings before Haussmann’s boulevards transformed the city. Galerie Vivienne, located in the 2nd arrondissement, features beautiful mosaic floors and charming boutique shops. Meanwhile, the Passage des Panoramas is home to stamp dealers, antique printing shops, and casual bistros.
These architectural treasures not only provide shopping opportunities but also shelter from the February rain, all while showcasing layers of Parisian history that tourists often overlook. They are perfect examples of unusual activities to do in Paris that are hidden in plain sight. Locals frequently use them as shortcuts, while many visitors walk by their entrances without even noticing.
19. Browse the Bouquinistes
Bouquinistes—the green stalls that sell used books, vintage posters, and postcards along the Seine—have been in operation for centuries. While many stalls offer items aimed at tourists, serious bibliophiles can discover first editions and rare prints. Engaging the sellers in conversation can be rewarding, as many are passionate about books and can help you find hidden treasures. Even if you don’t make a purchase, browsing through the boxes while watching the traffic on the Seine creates quintessentially Parisian moments.
20. Shop Like Locals at Street Markets
If you’re looking for non-touristy things to do in Paris, consider exploring street markets beyond the more famous ones. Marché d’Aligre in the 12th arrondissement combines covered food halls with outdoor stalls that feature fresh produce, cheese, and affordable clothing. Another great option is Marché des Enfants Rouges, the oldest covered market in Paris, established in 1615, located in the Marais. This market offers a variety of prepared foods from international vendors, making it perfect for a unique lunch experience.
Markets operate only in the mornings; arrive by 11 AM. You’ll shop alongside Parisians selecting fresh ingredients, practice your French with the vendors, and experience daily life without the touristy performances. Budget €20-40 for market finds that can become memorable picnics.
21. Find Speakeasy Bars Through Secret Doors
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Paris’s nightlife offers a unique edge with its underground bunker bars and speakeasy-style venues. Places like Moonshiner (hidden behind a pizzeria), Lavomatic (accessible through a laundromat), and Combat Bar (adorned with war memorabilia) require a bit of detective work to discover. These are unusual things to do in Paris for those seeking exciting, unexpected experiences in the city.
Escape rooms located in historic buildings—solving mysteries in Montmartre apartments or near the Latin Quarter—combine entertainment with atmospheric settings (€25-35 per person). The city’s Belle Époque architecture and medieval history create immersive experiences not found in modern buildings.
22. Create Your Signature Scent
Perfume-making workshops in the Marais offer an opportunity to explore the art of fragrance creation. You will learn to select notes, understand fragrance families, and craft your own custom scent, with prices ranging from €70 to €120. At the end of the workshop, you’ll take home a 50ml bottle of your unique perfume, along with a deeper appreciation for France’s rich perfume heritage. It is not only educational and creative but also produces a lasting, wearable souvenir that far surpasses the value of typical refrigerator magnets.
23. Explore Neighborhoods That Tourists Skip
Exploring the neighborhoods of Paris rewards your curiosity. The bistros in the 11th and 20th arrondissements cater primarily to locals rather than tourists, and their prices reflect this distinction. The Belleville street art scene complements the 13th arrondissement’s murals with a grittier, more politically charged vibe. In contrast, La Défense, the city’s modern business district, features striking architectural contrasts, including futuristic towers and the Grande Arche, which aligns with the historic axis running from the Louvre through the Champs-Élysées.
Bois de Vincennes, the largest park in Paris, features lakes, botanical gardens, and the medieval Château de Vincennes. It offers a quieter experience compared to the Bois de Boulogne. These are some of the best things to do in Paris for return visitors who’ve already checked off the major Paris tourist attractions and want to dig deeper.
24. Celebrate Valentine's Day Parisian-Style
Things to do in Paris in February peak on Valentine’s Day, when the city celebrates love. Special restaurant menus, couples’ packages at hotels, and flower vendors lining the boulevards with roses turn Paris into a romantic haven. It’s wise to book popular restaurants weeks in advance. Alternatively, if you want to avoid inflated prices, consider celebrating on February 13 or 15, when prices tend to be lower.
For a memorable Valentine’s dinner, consider making advance reservations at restaurants like Le Comptoir du Relais in the 6th arrondissement or Septime in the 11th. If you prefer a simpler option, grab some champagne and pastries, then find a quiet bench by the Seine. You can toast to each other while watching the boats pass by.
Flight prices in February can fluctuate, particularly during Valentine’s week (February 10-17), due to high demand. Better fares are usually available in early February (1-9) and late February (18-28). To get the best deals, book 2 to 4 months in advance. Become a OneAir member for automated monitoring services that can rebook your flight if prices drop after purchase.
25. Catch Paris Fashion Week
Paris Fashion Week, held in late February, showcases the city’s haute couture scene. While attending runway shows requires industry credentials, there are other opportunities to experience fashion’s glamorous side. To spot celebrities and discover avant-garde outfits that redefine personal style, position yourself outside major venues such as the Grand Palais and the Tuileries.
Even without tickets, the energy in Paris transforms during Fashion Week. Temporary boutiques, designer collaborations, and public-facing fashion events create opportunities to engage with the industry. If fashion is one of your interests, timing your visit to coincide with Fashion Week enhances the experience.
26. Shop the Winter Sales
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The winter sales (Soldes d’hiver) are held twice a year, with the winter edition running from early January to mid-February. Department stores (Galeries Lafayette, Le Bon Marché), boutiques, and even luxury brands offer considerable discounts of 30% to 70% on designer pieces. Galeries Lafayette’s Art Nouveau dome alone justifies a visit, but when you combine architectural appreciation with serious shopping, you’ll leave with both photographs and purchases.
27. Experience Rural France at the Agriculture Fair
The Salon International de l’Agriculture, held in late February to early March, is France’s largest agricultural fair. This 10-day event celebrates French farming, regional products, and livestock. While it may seem niche, it holds significant cultural importance and attracts hundreds of thousands of attendees, including politicians. Visitors can taste regional cheeses, wines, and charcuterie, meet prize-winning cows, and experience a slice of rural France in the heart of urban Paris.
Tickets are €16 and the event will be held at Parc des Expositions (Porte de Versailles). This offers a completely different set of activities in Paris than traditional museums and monuments, providing authentic cultural immersion into French agricultural traditions and regional diversity that most tourists never encounter.
28. Join Chinese New Year Celebrations
The Chinese New Year celebration in the 13th arrondissement, known as Chinatown, features vibrant dragon dances, lively parades, and a range of Asian cultural festivities. The date of the celebration varies each year based on the lunar calendar, typically occurring in late January to early to mid-February. During this time, streets are closed for the festivities, restaurants offer special menus, and the atmosphere provides a striking contrast to Paris’s typical European character. It’s among the unique things to do in Paris that reveal the city’s demographic complexity and cultural richness beyond wine, cheese, and Impressionist paintings.
29. Warm Up with French Onion Soup
In February, certain foods are particularly appealing. For example, French onion soup—those comforting bowls of beef broth, caramelized onions, bread, and gooey Gruyère cheese—becomes especially satisfying in the cold.
Visit Café de Flore in the 6th arrondissement, Au Pied de Cochon in the 1st arrondissement (which is open 24/7), or any local bistro throughout Paris, where dishes typically range from €8 to €15. Bistro classics such as coq au vin, boeuf bourguignon, and cassoulet are ideal for the winter weather. Pair these hearty meals with a glass of red wine and some crusty bread for a complete comfort experience.
30. Master the Art of the Croissant
Don’t miss out on croissants from local boulangeries. The flaky pastry should shatter with the first bite, with buttery layers that literally melt on your tongue. Authentic Parisian croissants are never sweet; they are buttery, slightly salty, and perfect for enjoying with a strong cup of coffee (€1.50-2.50).
Top bakeries include Du Pain et des Idées (10th), Mamiche (9th), and Blé Sucré (12th). Make sure to visit these bakeries early in the morning when the goods are fresh out of the oven. You’ll also find crêpes and galettes everywhere. Enjoy sweet crêpes for dessert and savory buckwheat galettes for lunch or dinner. For sweet treats, macarons from Pierre Hermé or hot chocolate at Angelina (€9.50) provide Instagram moments and genuine indulgence.
Takeaway
Paris in February is truly a unique experience—sophisticated, moody, beautiful, and authentically itself. The iconic tourist attractions remain essential and are far more enjoyable due to the reduced crowds this month.
Romantic activities peak during Valentine’s season, making it an ideal time for couples. For families, there are numerous activities in Paris that balance education and entertainment, from science museums to chocolate-making workshops. Additionally, exploring unusual aspects of the city, such as cemeteries, covered passageways, local markets, and underground bars, reveals hidden layers that many tourists often overlook.
Ready to book your Parisian adventure? Make sure you’re maximizing your travel budget with automated flight monitoring that continues working after booking—because finding cheap flights to Paris is just the first step.
*Banner photo by Alexander Kagan on Unsplash
