Six Reasons You Should Absolutely Travel to Paris in January

When it comes to visiting Paris, January might not be the first month that comes to mind. However, savvy travelers know that Paris in January offers unique perks that make it a surprisingly ideal time to experience the City of Light. From fewer crowds to irresistible sales, here are six compelling reasons you should absolutely travel to Paris in January.

Paris in January: What to Expect

Paris in January is the low season for tourists. The streets are quiet and while museums are busy, they are not as nearly as packed as they can be during the summer months. Here is what you can expect during your time in Paris in January and the six reasons why you should absolutely take your next trip to Paris in January. 

1. Inexpensive Hotels & Flights

While you can snag inexpensive flights to Paris with some luck, yearound, there are some serious deals for those looking to travel to Paris in January. We got a great deal on flights through United Airlines and even better deals on hotels for our trip, making this a great time to visit Paris if you are on a budget. While we ultimately booked our flights to Paris in January using airline miles, we found a number of options priced under $800 USD round-trip which is a steal for us flying out of Tampa, Florida where round-trip tickets to Paris during the spring and summer months regularly run between $1,200 to $1,400 USD. 

If you cannot find time to visit Paris in January, rest assured that deals on flights and hotels continue into February and March, making them other cost-effective months to explore the City of Light!

While nice hotels in Paris can oftentimes be well over €400 per night during tourist peak season (June, July, August, and December), we found tons of deals on hotel rooms under €175 per night in January! While you may not be able to book the Ritz Paris for that price, hotel prices are generally lower across the board in Paris in January, with plenty of availability. We stayed at one of our favorite hotels in Paris, Aparthotel Quartier Libre Opéra, for a steal of $158 USD per night (plus taxes and fees). Another top choice of ours in Paris, Hôtel Astra Opéra, was available for only $295 USD per night (plus taxes and fees)! 

Best Hotels to Stay in Paris in January 

Our favorite two hotels in Paris are located in the 9th Arrondissement, just a couple of blocks from Palais Garnier. We love staying in the 9th Arrondissement since it is within walking distance of some of Paris's top attractions, offers fantastic shopping opportunities, and is conveniently linked to the rest of Paris by public transportation.

• Hôtel Astra Opéra (9th Arr.)
• Aparthotel Quartier Libre Opéra (9th Arr.)

However, if you are looking to stay in other neighborhoods, check out some of these other hotels! Either we have stayed in them ourselves or they have come highly recommended from family and friends. 

• Drawing Hotel Paris (1st Arr.)
• Hotel Regina Louvre (1st Arr.)
• Hôtel Bourgogne & Montana (7th Arr.)

Looking for even more hotel options? Check out all that Hotels.com has to offer!

2. Soldes (Sales)

Stores in France have sales twice a year in January and July. The January sales, however, are really the crème de la crème! You can find discounts on a huge variety of products ranging from shoes, clothing, designer items, perfume, beauty products, and more. This year's sales period lasts from January 8 to February 4, 2025. So if you are planning a trip to Paris and hoping to do shopping, there is no better time to visit than January! 

Galeries Lafayette, Printemps, & Parisian Department Stores

While most stores offer sales in Paris in January, the department stores are really your best bet for one-stop shopping and easy VAT refund processing. When I say one-stop shopping, I truly mean it! The department stores in Paris, particularly the ones I am going to discuss here sell everything from high end luxury brands (think, Prada, Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Yves Saint Laurent, etc.) to popular mainstream French brands (which we will dive into shortly) as well as brands from the United States, and even their own name-brand products.

Just an aside, the main department stores discussed here are all located in the Right Bank (Rive Droite) in Paris since that is where we stayed during our trip to Paris in January and where we spent the most time. 

Galeries Lafayette

The most popular department store in Paris for tourists, and the most beautiful, is Galeries Lafayette located on Boulevard Haussmann, just steps from the Palais Garnier in the 9th Arrondissement. Galeries Lafayette is my favorite place to shop in Paris because the sales associates by and large speak really good English and they have a massive assortment of brands available. Galeries Lafayette offers VAT refunds on purchases made over the course of 3 consecutive days amounting to more than €100. Just make sure to hold on to your receipts and bring your physical passport to one of their concierge desks for processing. Galeries Lafayette on Boulevard Haussmann aslo has a gourmet and luxury grocery store (called Le Gourmet) which is an added treat!

There are three main buildings that make up Galeries Lafayette on Boulevard Haussmann: the Le Gourmet building which also contains housewares (35 Bd Haussmann), the men's store which can be identified by the "L'Homme" signage on the exterior of the building (48 Bd Haussmann), and the main building with the beautiful Art Nouveau ceiling which houses women's departments and can be identified by the "La Coupole" signage on the exterior (40 Bd Haussmann). Galeries Lafayette is open daily. Store hours are Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM and on Sundays (and public holidays) from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Out of the major department stores in Paris, it is worth noting that Brian thought the men's department at Galeries Lafayette was by far the best. He found quite a few pieces on sale during our visit to Paris in January, including items from brands like Veja, The North Face, and Polo Ralph Lauren at discounts of up to 60% off! 

There is another Galeries Lafayette in Paris at 60 Av. des Champs-Élysées (the 8th Arrondissement). This is a smaller location than the main Galeries Lafayette on Boulevard Haussmann, but still filled with many popular brands. This  Champs-Élysées location is open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, daily.

Printemps 

Printemps is another major department store in Paris, also located on Boulevard Haussmann in the 9th Arrondissement, right next to Galeries Lafayette. Similar to Galeries Lafayette, there is a separate men's store located across the street from the women's store at 70 Boulevard Haussmann. (The main store, housing the women's departments is located at 64 Boulevard Haussmann, shown on the map below.) Overall, the selection of brands and goods at Printemps is very similar to that of Galeries Lafayette, but I do have to say the store was significantly less crowded, making it a bit easier to casually browse the racks.

Printemps on Boulevard Haussmann is open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM Monday through Saturday and 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Sundays. 

One really nice feature of Printemps is that they have a Goyard boutique in-store that, from my experience, never has crazy lines like the other Goyard boutiques throughout Paris. Although we did not make a purchase, the Goyard boutique in Printemps offered an impressive selection, and the sales associates were exceptionally kind and attentive.

Another highlight of the Printemps department store is their 7th floor terrace that offers exceptional view of the city of Paris! Sadly, when we visited Printemps it was a rather dreary day, so we skipped the terrace, but if the weather is nice and you are in the area, definitely check it out!

BHV Marais 

BHV Marais is the third and final department store we visited during our time in Paris in January. BHV Marais is located on Rue de Rivoli in the 4th Arrondissement, right near Hôtel de Ville. BHV Marais is open daily; Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM and on Sunday from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. 

BHV Marais had an equally good assortment of women's clothing and accessories, especially when it comes to French brands, but with fewer high-end designer labels (i.e., no Louis Vuitton boutique within the store like at Galeries Lafayette or Printemps). I actually ended up buying a gorgeous camel wool coat on sale from the chic French brand, Sandro, within BHV Marais!    

Interestingly, a friendly sales associate in the Sandro section at BHV Marais explained that the discounts increase as the month goes on! This means that although some discounts might initially be just 10 or 20% off, they can rise to as much as 60% off as the sales period progresses. So while it might behoove you to wait to shop, popular sizes tend to sell out fast, particularly with higher end brands that do not offer discounts or promotions at other times during the year. I cannot say with absolute certainty if this discounting applies to other department stores across Paris in January, but generally, prices appeared to be fairly consistent among them, so I believe it to be the case.

It is also worth noting, Brian did not care for the BHV Marais men's department at all. (The men's store is once again a separate building located at 36 Rue de la Verrerie, just across from the main BHV Marais store.) They did have a nice selection of Isabel Marant, Sandro, and A.P.C. for men, but otherwise the store was lacking in comparison to Printemps and Galeries Lafayette. So, if you are looking for menswear, maybe skip a trip to BHV Marais. 

Other Department Stores in Paris

In the event that you are staying in the Left Bank of Paris (Rive Gauche), there is another department store that is definitely worth visiting: Le Bon Marché. I have not personally visited Le Bon Marché, since I tend to prefer to stay on the Right Bank which is filled with other department store options. However, Le Bon Marché is regularly praised for its large selection of high-end designers and its iconic design. Le Bon Marché is open daily; Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 7:45 PM and on Sunday from 11:00 AM to 7:45 PM. For additional information, check out this article by Condé Nast Traveler. 

Popular French Clothing Brands

Most people already know the popular French clothing brand Sézane, but there are so many other popular French brands that have boutiques all over Paris that participate in the semi-annual sales. Two of my top choices for wardrobe essentials are Sandro and A.P.C. While these brands are available in the US, they are significantly more affordable if you catch them on sale in Paris in January! Brian and I are also huge fans of Veja, the ethical and sustainable sneaker brand. Brian scored a great pair of Veja V-90 sneakers marked down 50% at Galeries Lafayette! You can find Sandro, A.P.C., Veja, and other popular French brands at department stores throughout Paris which makes it easy for one-stop shopping!

If you are looking for a rundown on the most popular French fashion brands right now, check out this article from whowhatwear.com. 

VAT Refunds (Détaxe)

One of the best parts about shopping in Paris in January is the ability to claim a VAT refund on purchases over €100, while still scoring some great deals with the semi-annual sales. VAT refunds can be claimed at most stores, but be sure to check to see if this is a service they offer before you check out. All of the major department stores in Paris offer this service, also called Détaxe, and make it easy for you to obtain the necessary forms to get money back after you depart the European Union.

In order to qualify for a VAT refund, you will need to bring your physical passport with you while shopping. 

For additional information, and to see if you qualify for a VAT refund on your shopping in Paris, please visit the Paris Je T'aime website.

Please note, that if you are traveling back to the United States from Europe (or any other international destination), each person is permitted to bring back up to $800 USD in purchases duty-free. Anything purchased above this dollar amount and brought back to the United States needs to be declared to US Customs & Immigration Enforcement upon your arrival in the airport or seaport. Duty amounts differ depending on the item purchased and the dollar amount. For additional information, please visit the US Customs & Border Protection website.

3. Mild Winter Weather

Compared to many places in the northern hemisphere, Paris in January has relatively mild winter weather. While you will most certainly need to pack a winter coat, gloves, and plenty of sweaters, the weather in Paris in January is really quite manageable. (Trust me on this, as someone from Florida who is accustomed to much warmer climates!)

Here is a brief summary as to what you can expect for the weather in Paris in January: 

Average High: 45°F (7°C)

Average Low: 37°F (3°C)

Average Number of Rainy Days: 17

Monthly Precipitation: 2 Inches (5 cm)

Average Sunrise: 8:38 AM

Average Sunset: 5:21 PM 

While it does rain a lot in Paris, the rain in Paris in January is more of a light drizzle or mist. During my time in Paris in January this year, over the course of 10 days, I believe it rained 3 of them. The rain was not all day and certainly did not put a damper our sightseeing or travel plans. With that being said, pack an umbrella and shoes you do not mind getting wet! On the days that it does rain in Paris, the temperature does feel a bit cooler since it is more of a damp cold instead of a dry cold. You can expect fog in the mornings, too. However, on the days when it does not rain and the sun shines, the weather is absolutely perfect for sightseeing! 

4. Holiday Decorations

Paris is a hugely popular destination for travelers looking to celebrate the holidays abroad in November and December. November and December are also much more expensive (and crowded) months to visit Paris than January. However, if you travel to Paris in January, you will still get to experience some of the magic of the holidays as many of the decorations are still up to enjoy!

As of January 14th, here are some of the best places to still see holiday decorations and lights in Paris in January:

• Rue Saint-Honoré: Home to some of the biggest fashion houses in the world, Rue Saint-Honoré is a must-see during the holiday season. With elaborate window decorations and beautiful street lights, Rue Saint-Honoré is not to be missed. Even in mid-January, the beautifully street lights - large bows seemingly floating down the street - are still illuminated and are as beautiful as ever! 

• Place Vendôme: The holiday decorations in Place Vendôme are classic and beautifully executed. Adorned with grand Christmas trees and understated yet graceful garlands elegantly draped around the windows and doors of this symmetrical square, Place Vendôme stands out as one of the most sophisticated spots to admire holiday decorations in Paris during January.

• Boulevard Haussmann: Outside the Printemps department store on Boulevard Haussmann are some of the most beautiful lights and holiday decorations in Paris!

• Notre Dame Cathedral: Notre Dame Cathedral is home to one of the most elaborate and magnificent nativity sets that I have ever seen and is up long after Christmas Day passes. If you have the opportunity to visit Notre Dame Cathedral during your time in Paris in January, be sure to check out the elaborate nativity set.

• Montmartre: Montmartre is already one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Paris and Christmastime is no exception. Beautifully decorated Christmas trees are on display outside the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre and elegantly strung Christmas lights illuminate the streets.

The lights were still up along the Avenue des Champs-Élysées but were sadly not illuminated during our visit. However, the lights and decorations that were still up throughout the city certainly added to the charm of our visit to Paris in January! 

La Galette des Rois

While not a holiday decoration, if you find yourself in Paris in January, you have to try a galette des rois, or king cake as they are known in French! These king cakes are traditionally served in honor of the Epiphany on January 6th and are a real treat! Galette des rois can be found at bakeries throughout the city and in grocery stores, too.

Traditionally, a galette des rois is made of puff pastry and filled with a delectable almond cream; however, you can also find variations filled with sautéed apples. (Plenty of more modern-takes on galette des rois also exist from bakeries throughout Paris! If you want to learn more, check out this article by Paris Je T'aime.) Some of the larger galette des rois come with a festive paper crown, while smaller ones do not. Regardless, I highly recommend taking the opportunity to try this delicious French treat during your time in Paris in January. 

5. Cozy Brasseries & Hearty French Food

Is there a better time of year to enjoy a cup of onion soup (soupe à l'oignon gratinée), a mouth-watering dish of beef bourguignon (boeuf bourguignon), or piping hot coq au vin than Paris in January? Traditional French food is hearty and warming, perfect for a chilly winter day. 

Best Places to Eat & Drink in Paris in January 

Looking for some fantastic food recommendations for your trip to Paris in January? While Paris is certainly known for its fine dining, we prefer to enjoy meals in casual bistros and brasseries while visiting Paris. Plus, you cannot visit Paris without enjoying fabulous pastries! Check out some of our favorite French restaurants, bars, and bakeries below.

As always, I highly recommend making a reservation for restaurants in Paris - even in January - since many of the restaurants on this list are small. Most restaurants can be booked via TheFork, which is a popular restaurant booking platform in France (think: OpenTable or Resy). The exception is Bouillon Chartier, which operates on a first-come, first-serve basis and does not accept reservations. Just be prepared to wait awhile for a table. 

It is also worth noting that reservations are not required for any of the bars or patisseries on this list. 😊

For Casual French Bistros & Brasseries: 

• Alfred (1st Arrondissement) 
• Brasserie Des Prés (6th Arrondissement) 
• François Félix (8th Arrondissement) 
• Le Moulin de la Galette (18th Arrondissement) 
• Bouillon Chartier Grands Boulevards (9th Arrondissement) 
• Bouillon Racine (6th Arrondissement) 

For Hot, Cold, & Alcoholic Drinks:

• Angelina (Multiple Locations) - The hot chocolate at Angelina is amazing, especially on a cold day in Paris in January! 😋

• Bar Hemingway (1st Arrondissement) 
• Harry's New York Bar (2nd Arrondissement) 

For Sweet Treats: 

• The French Bastards (Multiple Locations)
• Pâtisserie Boulangerie Liberté (Multiple Locations) 
• Biscuiterie de Montmartre (18th Arrondissement) 
• Boulangerie Moderne (5th Arrondissement) 
• Ritz Paris Le Comptoir (1st Arrondissement) - The best madeleines that you can find in Paris. Be sure to check out their chestnut honey madeleines that are only available in winter should you find yourself in Paris in January! 

6. Fewer Crowds Versus the Summer Months

The sixth reason to consider visiting Paris in January is likely the most apparent, given the previous points - fewer crowds! Since January is the slow season for tourism in Paris, a lot of the city seems quiet and nearly tourist-free. While there are certainly still tourists, it was easy to get reservations for restaurants, museums, and even the newly reopened Notre Dame Cathedral for the times and dates we wanted, particularly on weekdays, without having to plan too far ahead. 

I have visited Paris in other months (June, September, and October) in the past and I can confidently say that the crowds in January are significantly smaller compared to those much busier times. The fewer crowds are a nice and appreciated change of pace when Paris is normally a city jam packed with people on the go. 

Jetset Seeker Pro Tip: If you are looking to visit the Louvre, even in January when the crowds are smaller than the rest of the year, book the first admission slot at 9:00AM. Arrive early, around 8:45AM, as there will already be a line to enter the museum. Once inside, head directly to the Devon Wing, Level 1 to see Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece, Mona Lisa, before the crowds start swarming. From there, check out some of the other highlights while walking towards the Galerie d'Apollon where the French Crown Jewels are on display. We find this is the best way to see the museum while dodging the crowds. For more information about visiting the Louvre, check out our blog post on the Louvre Highlights! The Louvre was the only attraction we visited while in Paris in January that still felt incredibly busy, but getting an early start makes your time spent at the Louvre all that more enjoyable! 

Winter & Holiday Closures 

If you are planning a trip to Paris in January, or a trip overlapping with New Year's Day, note that most museums, shops, grocery stores, pharmacies, and restaurants are closed on January 1st. January 1st is a national holiday in France and one of the few days where the majority of businesses are closed (the other two days being December 25th and May 1st). If you are in Paris on January 1st, you will be able to find some restaurants open, but your selection will be more limited, so prepare accordingly.

Otherwise, you may find that some places that cater towards tourists are closed during January and the winter months since it is the low season for tourism in France. For example, the top floor of the Eiffel Tower closes annually in January for maintenance and repair work. This year, the Eiffel Tower is closed from January 6 to February 7, 2025. You can still, however, visit the second floor of the Eiffel Tower during this time. Additionally, if you are headed to Reims in Champagne for a day trip from Paris, the renowned champagne house, Veuve Clicquot, is closed from December 29, 2025 through March 12, 2025. In order to ensure that your travel plans will not be impacted by winter and holiday closures, it is always recommended that you verify the opening dates and times of your intended destinations in advance.

Best Things to Do in Paris in January 

When you visit Paris in January, you will quickly realize that the world is your oyster! With fewer crowds, you have the flexibility to enjoy as much or as little sightseeing, shopping, and day trips as you desire. Here are some of the best things to do in Paris in January.

Sightseeing 

The City of Light is full of sightseeing opportunities, from the ever-picturesque neighborhood of Montmartre to strolls along the Seine. Here are some of my favorite sightseeing opportunities in Paris in January: 

• Notre Dame Cathedral: Now that the beloved symbol of Paris, Notre Dame Cathedral, has reopened to the public, it should be at the top of any sightseeing list! Admission to Notre Dame is free, unless you want to visit the cathedral's treasury. (Tickets to the treasury can be purchased outside of the entrance to the treasury and cost €12 for adults.) You can book reservations on the Notre Dame de Paris website, and it is highly advisable to do so. These reservations become available three days prior, starting at midnight Paris time. Reservations fill up quickly, so if you are looking to snag one, be sure to be online at midnight Paris time! If you cannot secure a reservation, do not worry; you can still wait in line to enter the cathedral. For the shortest wait times, consider visiting on a weekday later in the afternoon, as the cathedral remains open until 7:00 PM from Monday to Friday, and until 10:00 PM on Thursdays. The longest waits are undoubtedly on weekends. For additional information, please visit the Notre Dame de Paris website.

• Montmartre: Montmartre, perched atop a hill in the 18th Arrondissement, is one of Paris's most beautiful neighborhoods, known for its bohemian charm, artistic heritage, and stunning views over the city. This area has been a haven for artists and creatives for centuries, making it a vibrant and historically rich part of Paris. The crown jewel of Montmartre is the Basilica of the Sacré Cœur, a stunning white-domed church that sits at the highest point in Paris. Built in the late 19th century, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its dome as well as the plaza immediately in front of the basilica. The interior of the basilica is equally impressive, with beautiful mosaics and a serene atmosphere for contemplation. For a romantic experience, explore Montmartre after sunset to enjoy breathtaking views of Paris from its highest point outside the basilica.

• Sainte-Chapelle: Sainte-Chapelle is renowned for its stunning stained glass windows, which depict over a thousand biblical scenes in vivid color. This Gothic chapel on the Ile de la Cité was originally built to house relics of the Passion of Christ. (These relics are now held at Notre Dame.) The upper chapel, bathed in the light of its towering windows, offers a breathtaking visual experience. Advance purchase tickets are highly recommended, even in Paris in January. 

• Seine River Cruises: One of my favorite ways to see Paris, even in January, is by boat! Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Paris down the Seine, or even a lunch or dinner cruise. Cruises operate throughout the winter and offer indoor seating! I have used Bateaux Mouches previously and really enjoyed their cruises. Their sightseeing cruises provide engaging commentary about the landmarks you pass that is concise yet informative, ensuring you remain interested throughout the ride. Since Paris in January is a slow season, you can certainly wait to book your tour until you arrive at the Bateaux Mouches dock and board the next boat! There is no need to book too far in advance, unless you are planning on doing a dinner cruise. 

Museums 

Would it be a trip to Paris in January without a stop at one of the many world-class museums that dot the city? Museums are the perfect way to spend a dreary, cold day in Paris in January. Since the crowds are smaller in Paris in January, you do not have to book tickets for museums too far in advance, but I still highly recommend having tickets purchased online, ahead of your planned visit.

When planning your visit, it is important to note that many Paris museums are closed on Mondays, with notable exceptions like the Louvre Museum, Musée de l'Orangerie, the Centre Pompidou, and La Galerie Dior which are closed on Tuesdays instead. Before planning your visit, make sure to check the most up-to-date opening hours, as public holidays (i.e., January 1) may also affect museum schedules.

While everyone already knows the Louvre, a few of my other favorite museums to visit in Paris in January are listed below. 

• Musée d'Orsay: The Musée d'Orsay is housed in a former Beaux-Arts railway station, Gare d'Orsay, which was built for the 1900 Exposition Universelle (World Fair/Expo). Renowned for its extensive collection of Impressionist and post-Impressionist masterpieces, the Musée d'Orsay is a treasure trove of 19th and early 20th-century art. The museum boasts significant works by Cézanne, Degas, Manet, and Van Gogh. Additionally, the museum features sculptures, decorative arts, and photographs from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Do not miss the museum's most adorable member in its collection - and unofficial mascot - Pompon the polar bear! Advance tickets are recommend, even in January. The busiest day to visit the Musée d'Orsay is Tuesdays, since the Louvre Museum is closed.

• Musée de l'Orangerie: Situated in the Tuileries Garden, the Musée de l'Orangerie is famous for its breathtaking display of eight of Monet’s Water Lilies. The museum also boasts a small, but respectable collection of works by Cézanne, Matisse, Picasso, and other modern artists from the 20th century, housed in a beautiful and intimate setting. Tickets for Musée de l'Orangerie do not need to be purchased in advance of your visit. Please note, however, that Musée de l'Orangerie will be closed from January 28 through March 2, 2025.

• Palais Garnier: Paris's magnificent opera house is well-worth a visit! 

  With its extravagant decor and 19th-century Beaux-Arts architecture, it resembles a palace more than a performance venue. Highlights include the grand staircase, the opulent foyer, and the magnificent auditorium adorned with Marc Chagall’s colorful ceiling. (While Chagall's ceiling is absolutely incredible to see, know that the auditorium is not always open to the public since the Palais Garnier is a working theatre and rehearsals frequently take place inside.) To get the most out of your visit to Palais Garnier, I highly recommend that you book a guided tour. To avoid waiting in line, I recommend that you book your visit to Palais Garnier at least the day prior to your planned visit. 

• Hôtel National des Invalides: The Hôtel National des Invalides is a grand complex of buildings in the 7th Arrondissement, originally constructed as a hospital and home for aged and disabled soldiers. Today, it houses several museums and monuments related to France's military history, the most prominent being the Musée de l'Armée (Army Museum). Highlights of the Army Museum include the grand tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte, located under the impressive golden dome of the Dôme des Invalides, and extensive collections of armor, weapons, and uniforms from various periods of French history. The site also includes the Musée des Plans-Reliefs (Museum of Relief Maps) and the Musée de l'Ordre de la Libération (Museum of the Order of the Liberation), making it a key destination for those interested in French military history. Admission to the Museum of Relief Maps and the Museum of the Order of the Liberation is included with your ticket to the Army Museum. Most of the signage in the Army Museum is exclusively in French, however, a visit alone is worthwhile to see the incredibly extravagant tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte. Advance purchase tickets are not required.

Shopping 

This may seem obvious since we already discussed the amazing sales you can find in Paris in January, but shopping is most certainly a great way to spend your time in the City of Light! Paris is one of the most fashion-forward cities on the planet, so shopping - especially during the sales period - is a no brainer. Whether you are looking for haute couture or more affordable ready-to-wear pieces, home decor items, and more, Paris is sure to have exactly what you are looking for! 

Some popular shopping areas in Paris include:

• Champs-Élysées & Avenue Montaigne: The Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous shopping streets in the world. It features a blend of luxury brands, flagship stores, and global chains. Just off the Champs-Élysées, Avenue Montaigne is home to the crème de la crème of Parisian fashion, including Dior, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and other high-end designers, making it a prime destination for luxury shopping.

• Le Marais: Le Marais, located in the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, is a historic district known for its narrow, cobblestone streets and charming boutiques. This trendy area offers a mix of high-end fashion, vintage shops, art galleries, and unique specialty stores. Visitors can find a variety of goods, from designer clothes and accessories to artisanal food products and home decor.

• Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Saint-Germain-des-Prés, located in the 6th Arrondissement, is known for its elegant atmosphere and a mix of high-end boutiques, bookshops, and antique stores. 

• Rue de Rivoli: Rue de Rivoli, running parallel to the Seine in the 1st arrondissement, is a bustling shopping street that offers a mix of high-street fashion, souvenir shops, and department stores like BHV Marais. Its central location makes it a convenient shopping destination for tourists exploring nearby landmarks such as the Louvre Museum and the Tuileries Garden.
• Galeries Lafayette & Printemps: Located on Boulevard Haussmann in the 9th Arrondissement, Galeries Lafayette and Printemps are two of Paris’s most famous department stores. These iconic shopping destinations offer a wide range of luxury and mid-range brands, cosmetics, and gourmet food.

• Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré: Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, situated in the 8th arrondissement, is another prestigious shopping street renowned for its haute couture boutiques and luxury fashion houses. The street is lined with high-end stores, including Hermès, Lanvin, and Yves Saint Laurent, as well as art galleries and upscale jewelry shops.
  

Popular Souvenirs from Paris in January

• Gourmet Foods: For food lovers, some top souvenir choices include French butter, known for its rich and creamy texture, and artisanal cookies like madeleines and macarons, which offer a taste of traditional French baking. Fine wines and champagne are also must-buys, with many shops offering selections from renowned French vineyards. Do not forget French chocolates and traditional French mustard to elevate your cooking once you return home. For one-stop shopping for all things gourment while in Paris, be sure to check out La Grande Épicerie de Paris in the 6th Arrondissement and Le Gourmet at Galeries Lafayette in the 9th Arrondissement.

  • For budget-friendly food souvenirs, check out local grocery stores such as Carrefour, Monoprix, and Franprix, which are conveniently located throughout Paris. Look for packaging with labels like PDO, AOC, PGI, and TSG to ensure the product is authentically French and meets high-quality production standards. Some of my favorite affordable French brands available at these stores include Bonne Maman and Reflets de France, both offering delightful jams, cookies, and other tasty snacks to take home from your trip to Paris in January. You can also find some fantastic wines under €10 and inexpensive (but good!) champagnes at these grocery stores. Additionally, Carrefour's own branded foods are excellent choices. Some of what I purchased on our last trip to Paris in January is photographed below. 😋

• Clothing & Accessories: Chic handbags from Polène and stylish clothing from Sézane are popular choices at the moment and make great souvenirs. However, there are tons of more under-the-radar French brands worth checking out too during your time in Paris in January! Be sure to browse the sale racks for brands like A.P.C., ba&sh, Isabel Marant, Sandro, Maje, Claudie Pierlot, and Rouje if you really want a feel for authentic Parisian style. For men, Sézane's male counterpart - Octobre Éditions - also has boutiques throughout the city and great quality clothing and accessories at reasonable price points.
  • For those seeking high-end fashion, boutiques from iconic designers such as Chanel, Dior, and Louis Vuitton are essential stops. Accessories like scarves and silk ties from Hermès offer a touch of luxury and sophistication that can enhance any wardrobe. Note that if you are planning on visiting Hermès while in Paris, you will need a leather appointment in order to purchase any leather goods during your stay. Ready-to-wear and other accessories do not require an appointment at Hermès. 
  • Looking for luxury pieces for less? Paris also has a fantastic selection of vintage and second-hand shops. Some of the best vintage stores in Paris are outlined in this fantastic article from Vogue. 
• Beauty & Skincare Products: Beauty products are another excellent souvenir from Paris. Luxury perfumes from Fragonard capture the essence of French elegance, while skincare and beauty products from French pharmacies, such as La Roche-Posay, Avène, and Bioderma, are famous for their effectiveness and quality. French sunscreens are also top-notch, particularly those from La Rosée, Caudalie, La Roche-Posay, Avène, and Vichy! For those looking to purchase beauty and skincare products from a French pharmacy, be sure to check out Citypharma in the 6th Arrondissement. Citypharma has the best prices in Paris from my experience and they also offer VAT refunds on purchases over €100. Just be sure to bring your passport with you!

• Books & Stationery: Shakespeare and Company, a legendary independent English-language bookstore in the 5th Arrondissement, is situated just across the Seine from Notre Dame Cathedral. Shakespeare and Company features a huge collection of English-language books, rare antique books, and charming canvas tote bags.

Day Trips

While Paris in January offers incredible experiences for any traveler, the surrounding areas in France also hold a wealth of attractions. Here are some of our top recommendations for day trips from Paris in January.

Versailles

The Palace of Versailles, originally a modest hunting lodge, was transformed into a sprawling symbol of absolute monarchy under his son, King Louis XIV, famously known as the Sun King. The palace is large, ostentatious, and well worth a visit! Highlights include the iconic Hall of Mirrors, the King and Queen's Apartments, and the gardens. If time allows, do not miss the opportunity to see the Estate of Trianon and the Queen's Hamlet, too! 

Conveniently located just a short train ride from Paris, visiting Versailles can easily be done as a day trip, making it a must-see addition to your itinerary for your time in Paris in January. The easiest way to reach the Palace of Versailles, from Paris, is by RER train. The nearest train station is Versailles Château Rive Gauche which is a 10-minute walk from the palace. The train station is part of the RER network, servicing RER Line C. This station can be reached from the center of Paris (Champs de Mars, Invalides, and Musée d'Orsay).

On our most recent visit to Versailles in 2024, we took the RER C from the Musée d'Orsay Station. The train ride was 33 minutes and Versailles Château Rive Gauche was the last stop on the line. Upon exiting the station, you will want to make a right and head down Avenue du Général de Gaulle. After walking about a block, you will make a left onto Avenue de Paris and Versailles should be within view.

While Versailles is not nearly as crowded in January as it is during the summer months, you will still want to purchase your tickets online, in-advance of your visit. Tickets can be purchased, in advance of your visit on the Château de Versailles website. As you plan your trip to Paris in January, know that Versailles is closed to the public on Mondays. 

Looking for more information about what you can expect from a day trip to Versailles? Check out our Visiting Versailles blog post! 

Fontainebleau 

The Château de Fontainebleau, a former royal residence with over 800 years of history, showcases a stunning blend of medieval, Renaissance, and classical architecture. Conveniently located just a short train ride from Paris, it makes for an easily accessible day trip, offering visitors a chance to explore its opulent interiors and expansive gardens without the crowds of more well-known sites like Versailles. One of the main highlights, undoubtedly, is the Napoleon I Museum dedicated to the First Empire and rule of Napoleon Bonaparte who called Fontainebleau home. Other highlights include: the Gallery of Francis I, the Queen's Bedchamber, the Throne Room of Napoleon, and the Emperor's Bedchamber. 

If you elect to visit Fontainebleau as a day trip from Paris in January, be sure to rent an audio guide to make the most of your visit since the signage in the château is almost exclusively in French. Tickets for Fontainebleau can be purchased on-site and do not need to be booked in advance of your visit. For more information, including opening hours and costs, visit the Château de Fontainebleau website.

The trains from Paris to Fontainebleau-Avon run from Paris's Gare de Lyon station and take 44 minutes. Amazingly, you do not need to purchase separate train tickets for this journey as it is within the zones covered by your Paris Navigo card.

Once you arrive in Fontainebleau, you can either take the public bus to the château or walk. The walk takes approximately 30 minutes. (If you are looking to walk, I highly recommend using Google Maps to help you successfully navigate your way through town to the palace.) The bus ride takes 10 minutes aboard the #3401 Bus to the Château de Fontainebleau. The bus is clearly identifiable from the train station with plenty of signage and you can likely count on following the gaggle of other tourists to make sure you board the correct bus. The bus runs in conjunction with the train schedule, so it should be ready for you to board upon your arrival at Fontainebleau-Avon. You can pay the driver directly for a bus ticket, The cost of the bus is €2.50 per person, however, payment to the driver is only accepted in cash. You will get off the bus at the "Château" bus stop which is directly opposite the street from the Garden of Diana entrance to the palace. The buses do have digital screens that identify the upcoming stops to make it easy for first-time visitors.

Champagne 

Champagne, famous for the sparkling wine that shares its name, is surprisingly just a short train ride from Paris. The two major towns in the Champagne region, Épernay and Reims, offer fantastic day trip opportunities from Paris in January! Trains to both of these gorgeous towns leave from Paris's Gare de l'Est train station and you can book them directly through the SNCF website in English. 

Although not every champagne house is open to visitors in January, many still welcome guests, offering a wonderful taste of the towns and bubbly wine that define them. In January, you can expect a quieter champagne-tasting experience and smaller, more personal tours of the champagne houses and their cellars. Many champagne houses in Reims and Épernay are closed on Sundays, so it might be wise to reschedule your visit if it falls on that day.

Some of our favorite champagne houses and tasting rooms to visit in each town that are open in January are below:

Reims

• Vranken-Pommery: Madame Pommery was an incredible and innovative woman when it came to champagne production in Reims. She pioneered the use of caves for champagne storage and even incorporated art into the experience in the hopes of attracting visitors. Her legacy continues today with modern art exhibitions throughout the champagne cellars. Vranken-Pommery was one of our favorite tours during our time in Reims. If you book a tour for Vranken-Pommery, you can skip Villa Demoiselle. We found Villa Demoiselle underwhelming and the main Pommery caves to be far more exciting! Self-guided tours are also available at Pommery. 

• G.H. Mumm: We thoroughly enjoyed our tour and tasting at G.H. Mumm while in Reims. However, we wished we booked the Grand Cru Experience instead of the Cordon Rouge Experience as our tour and tasting. For a bit more money, the Grand Cru Experience gives you the opportunity to try some really fantastic champagnes, which we ended up trying in the tasting room after our tour concluded for an additional charge. The G.H. Mumm tasting room is open to the public in the event that you want to visit the champagne house but not take a tour.

• Lanson: The Lanson tour took us through a small plot of vineyards on site, as well as gave us an inside look into the industrial champagne production site which the other champagne houses did not do. We booked the Original Creation: The House Signature tour and tasting which was fine, but in hindsight, we wished we booked a tasting that gave the ability to try more than just one glass of the signature cuvée, Le Black Création. Lanson also has a tasting room on site that allows you to try other champagnes without the need for taking a tour.  

• Pol Couronne: Pol Couronne has a tasting room right in the heart of Reims, less than a 5-minute walk from Reims Cathedral. We opted for the least expensive tasting of three glasses of Pol Couronne for €28 per person which was a great introduction to Pol Couronne champagnes. The gentlemen that worked at Pol Couronne's tasting room were also so lovely and provided us with some really great recommendations as to how to spend our time in Reims.  

More on Reims... 

• The train from Paris to Reims is about 40 minutes, with multiple trains connecting the two towns an hour. The train station in Reims is located 0.6 miles (1.0 km) or a 14-minute walk from Reims Cathedral. 
• While in Reims, I highly recommend a visit to Reims Cathedral, Cathédrale Notre Dame de Reims. It is a beautiful Gothic cathedral which was historically used for the coronation of the kings of France. While the cathedral was significantly damaged during World War I, it has been restored and is well worth a visit! Admission is free to enter and the cathedral is open daily. Do not miss the incredible stained glass behind the high altar designed by Marc Chagall, pictured below!  

• Additionally, Reims is famous for pink biscuits, called "biscuit rose" from Maison Fossier. They were designed to be dunked in champagne, tea, and/or coffee and are a local specialty. They make a great souvenir from your time in Reims, and I highly recommend picking up a box from Fossier while you are in town!

• The champagne houses and tasting rooms in Reims are spread out throughout the town. Meaning, they are not all walkable from the train station like in Épernay. However, the mass transit in Reims is easy to use an quite affordable. You can pay for bus fares directly to the driver (the cost is €2, cash only), or pay for a refillable card from the machines located at various tram stops throughout the city. (The same refillable card is good for both the buses and trams.) We took the bus to Vranken-Pommery and the tram to Lanson. If you use Google Maps, you will easily be able to figure out the best route to take to each of your intended destinations. 

• Reims is filled with some amazing restaurants, most of which are open for both lunch and dinner. We thoroughly enjoyed all of our meals in Reims (we spent two days in Reims in January) and highly recommend the following restaurants: 
  • La Grande Georgette 
  • L'ExtrA Restaurant Reims 
  • Alfred Burger
  • Restaurant Gabrielle Reims 
  • Café Crème 

Épernay

• de Venoge: de Venoge is one of the smaller champagne houses in Épernay, but it still offers excellent champagne and an interesting tour! We ended up with a private tour of de Venoge since we were the only ones to book an English language tour at the time that we did. It made the tour more personalized and interesting. After our visit, de Venoge became Brian's favorite champagne! 

• Charles Mignon: We actually could not get a reservation for Charles Mignon when we visited Épernay in October, but I wanted to include them on this list because they are one of only a handful of champagne houses in Épernay opened in January. The tours of Charles Mignon, which also include a tasting, are really affordable, beginning at just €14. With that being said, their tasting room is also open to the public in the event that you do not want to do a tour and just a tasting.  
• Château Comtesse Lafond: Lafond is another champagne house open in Épernay in January and probably one of the prettiest in terms of the exterior. Both tours and tastings are available. 

More on Épernay...

• The train from Paris to Épernay is longer than that to Reims, taking about 80 minutes. There are multiple trains throughout the day linking Paris and Épernay, but make sure you book a train that is direct (aka zero changes). 
• My favorite part about visiting Épernay is the fact that everything is walkable from the train station. Épernay is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, L'Avenue de Champagne, on which every champagne house in Épernay has a presence. L'Avenue de Champagne is less than a 10-minute walk from Épernay's train station. 

• We visited Épernay on a Monday and while the champagne houses were open, most of the shops and restaurants were closed so the town was quieter than usual. While we had slim pickings in terms of lunch options, we thoroughly enjoyed our lunch at the casual brasserie Le Progrès (5 Pl. de la République). It was conveniently located across from the Monument aux Morts, which sits at the start of L'Avenue de Champagne. As a bonus, we did not need a reservation for Le Progrès and were able to be seated right away. If you are looking for other restaurant recommendations in Épernay, check out Tripadvisor.   

Paris in January: A Recap

Whether you are looking for bargain deals or a quieter exploration of the city, Paris in January has something special to offer. Do not let the winter chill or occasional rain deter you; instead, embrace the unique allure of this magical month in one of the world’s most enchanting cities. January has certainly become my favorite month to visit the City of Light and I cannot wait until I return for more shopping, sightseeing, and amazing food! Until then, bon voyage! 

Looking for more information on Paris? Check out our Paris Travel Guide for more popular sites, incredible restaurants, and more about the City of Light!

Are you planning a trip to Paris in January? We would love to hear from you!