A visit to Paris in February is perfect if you’re thinking about seeing it before the winter season ends. Even if there is still a possibility of snow, the days are becoming noticeably brighter as spring approaches, in contrast to the bleakness of January. As winter draws to a close, the light stays on for longer, and normal life resumes.
The month of February is all about romance, and if you’re lucky, you’ll see the first cherry blossoms of the year. Visiting Paris in February is still considered low season, so hotels and airfare should be cheaper than at other times of the year.
There are no national holidays in February, so tourists to Paris need not worry about any unannounced business closures. In light of this, it’s important to note that Valentine’s Day is not often celebrated in Paris.
If you and your sweetheart happen to be in Paris for Valentine’s Day, that shouldn’t stop you from celebrating. There’s always something exciting to do and see in the City of Love, Paris.
Things you'll find in this article
- Paris in February: Weather, Things To See And Travel Tips
- What is the weather like in Paris Weather in February
- What to wear in Paris in February
- Where to stay in Paris in February
- Things to do in Paris in February
- 1. Make the most of the end-of-winter sales
- 2. Celebrate La Chandeleur in Paris: Crêpe Day
- 3. Celebrate Chinese New Year
- 4. Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Paris in the City of Love
- 5. Watch the Mardi Gras parades
- 6. Explore the Secret villages of Paris
- 7. Go Ice Skating For Free Around The City
- 8. Explore The Covered Passages
- Travel tips in Paris in February
Paris in February: Weather, Things To See And Travel Tips
RELATED READ:
- Paris in January
- Paris In March
- Paris In April
- Paris In May
- Paris In June
- Paris In July
- Paris In August
What is the weather like in Paris Weather in February
While the weather in Paris in February is typically gloomy and chilly, there are occasionally sunnier and warmer afternoons, particularly toward the end of the month.
Temperatures in Paris in February
Temperatures during the day are often as low as 6-8 C at the start of the month, then it warms gradually to 8-10 C near the end of February.
Towards the end of the month, temperatures can be up to 14 C during the afternoon. Meanwhile, temperatures in late night and early morning is usually 1-2 C with some mornings dropping into -3 to -4 C.
Rain/Snow in Paris in February
On roughly 14 days this month, we saw some form of precipitation. But only 6-9 of those will measure at least 1 mm (.04 inches).
While February snowfall in Paris is uncommon, it has happened on occasion.
Wind in Paris in February
The average wind speed in Paris in February ranges from 13 to 29 kilometers per hour (18 to 24 miles per hour), but it can occasionally pick up to 30 to 39 kilometers per hour (19 to 24 miles per hour) with briefer, stronger gusts.
Daylight in Paris in February
This month, the length of daylight hours is from around 9.4 hours on the first to slightly less than 11 hours by the end of the month.
What to wear in Paris in February
The month of February is characterized by low temperatures. During the day, there may be sporadic bouts of precipitation. You should prepare for the cold weather in Paris by packing winter clothes and a travel umbrella.
The winter season in Paris can be challenging with its extremely low temperatures and dry air, making rain gear an absolute must-have. If you want to avoid getting cold while you’re in Paris in February, make sure to bring the following with you:
- A Good pair of wool socks, or two
- A thick winter coat
- A longer winter coat that is waterproof and insulated
- Scarf, hat, and gloves
- Non-slip shoes
During the winter, Paris can be difficult to explore due to the cold and rain. But if you bring only what you need, with a focus on warm clothes, you won’t have to worry as much.
Where to stay in Paris in February
Budget hotel in Paris
Suites & Hôtel Helzear Montparnasse
Suites Helzear Montparnasse is a furnished apartment and suite complex in the heart of Paris, France. The complex features a garden and a terrace. Just a 10-minute stroll will take you to the Montparnasse Tower, and another 1.5 kilometers will get you to the Jardin du Luxembourg.
Hotel amenities include a flat-screen TV, an iPod docking station, ironing equipment, and a safe. It also features a full kitchen and a private bathroom. A/C is available in some units.
Catered lunches are available for guests. It takes less than 10 minutes to walk to get to the closest cafes and eateries.
Luxury hotel in Paris
The Hoxton, a five-star hotel conveniently near the Grands Boulevards Metro Station, is a great option for those looking to splurge on their trip to the city. From The Hoxton in Paris, you’ll be a short ride away from both the Louvre and the Pompidou Centre.
Every room has modern amenities and is decorated with taste. After a long day of exploring Paris, you can unwind in the sitting area provided in some rooms. In addition to offering free WiFi all over the premises, the Hoxton in Paris also has an excellent restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
Things to do in Paris in February
1. Make the most of the end-of-winter sales
In France, there are only two times during the year when it is legal to have sales, as the country’s sales industry is subject to a significant degree of government oversight.
The first of them runs from the beginning of January to about the middle of February, which means that February is still an excellent month to go shopping in the city.
When you consider that this is the month in which the last markdowns are made, February in Paris may reality be an even better time to shop for deals than January.
2. Celebrate La Chandeleur in Paris: Crêpe Day
When in Paris, you’ll undoubtedly eat a crepe for no particular reason at all. If you’re unfamiliar with La Chandeleur, it’s a French holiday celebrated annually on February 2nd, and it’s traditionally celebrated with crepes. (“Candlemas” or “pancake day” in English)
The 40th day after Christmas is the 2nd of February, which is based on a somewhat minor Roman Catholic tradition honoring the presentation of Baby Jesus at a temple. There are superstitions connected to it, particularly those involving financial success and the elements.
Visit a creperie on February 2 if you’re in Paris to partake in this delicious French custom.
3. Celebrate Chinese New Year
Paris comes alive with color and energy again after a long winter thanks to the Chinese New Year celebrations. Experience the vivid culture of Chinatown in south Paris by watching dragon and dancer processions, dining on authentic Chinese cuisine, and admiring the bright red lanterns strung from lampposts.
You may Chinatowns in Paris in three different neighborhoods: Paris 2 (the oldest), Paris 10, and Paris 13. Large-scale celebrations commemorating the Year of the Ox are being planned in three different Parisian arrondissements.
4. Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Paris in the City of Love
It’s hard to think of a more romantic city than Paris. Also known as a City of Love, Paris is the perfect place to take your significant other on Valentine’s Day, especially if you’re thinking about popping the question.
Get there on the cheap with a good airfare deal, and then treat yourself to a luxurious stay at a 5-star hotel. Then, while you’re in Paris, check out some of these charming and exciting attractions:
- Enjoy a relaxed and exciting bike journey through some of Paris’ most picturesque neighborhoods. Take in the sights as your tour guide takes you through the chic neighborhood of Saint-Germain, the historic district of Marais, and the bustling neighborhood of the Latin Quarter.
- Visit the banks of the Seine for some fresh air and taking in the scenery. When night falls, this spot transforms into one of the most picturesque settings imaginable, making it an ideal location for a marriage proposal.
- Learn more about “Soirée Love” at the Rodin Museum. Here, a “love tour” introduces you to Rodin’s most sexually charged works including “The Kiss” and “The Age of Bronze.” This is accompanied by a recital of the artist’s personal love story with Camille Claudel, as well as some suitably sentimental music and poetry.
5. Watch the Mardi Gras parades
During Mardi Gras, Paris hosts a massive parade called La Promenade du Boeuf Gras (roughly, March of the Fat Beef Cow).
This event is based on historic cultural customs and features masks and processions. About five thousand paraders in extravagant costumes, led by Pimprenelle, a beautiful French beef Limousin cow dressed in a brilliant red outfit, and her escort, Pat the Clown, fill the streets of Paris. This parade is of course accompanied by music and dance, drawing huge throngs of onlookers.
The Sunday before Fat Tuesday, the 20th arrondissement hosts the annual Paris Mardi Gras procession. This is one of the most enjoyable February events in Paris, which is free and open to all.
After leaving Place Gambetta, the march travels down Avenue Gambetta, past Père Lachaise Cemetery, before turning right onto Boulevard Ménilmontant, Boulevard de Belleville, Rue du Faubourg du Temple, and finally Place de la République.
6. Explore the Secret villages of Paris
The hidden neighborhoods of Paris provide the quintessential rural experience without ever leaving the city. These secret villages are the ideal destination for anyone seeking a romantic getaway away from the madding crowds.
Butte Bergeyre, a micro-arrondissement with its vineyard, and Butte-aux-Cailles, a picturesque neighborhood, are just two of the prettiest places to visit in Paris. The latter is a beautiful neighborhood lined with independent shops.
7. Go Ice Skating For Free Around The City
Paris is home to ice skating rinks, the definitive winter sport. During the winter, Paris has free ice skating so there’s no excuse for you not to try it. Renting ice skates will only set you back about €5. During the winter, nothing compares to putting on some skates and gliding about the streets of Paris.
In the winter, Parisians go to the ice rinks in front of the Hôtel de Ville and at the foot of the Montparnasse tower to enjoy the city’s famous architecture and sports. Be prepared for the cold weather by wearing warm clothes and a cap to the rink.
8. Explore The Covered Passages
As the weather in Paris during the winter may be unpredictable, one of the best things to do is to venture through the city’s many covered passages.
These tunnels date back to the first half of the nineteenth century. They were the city’s original shopping arcades. These passages are also some of the most exquisite architectural gems while being mostly unknown.
These gorgeous passages are a great place to spend a solitary winter afternoon. As you walk by, you can see distinct Parisian architecture characterized by mosaic flooring, glass roofs, and other distinctive design aspects.
Gallery Vivienne Paris, Passage Verdeau, Passage Passage du Grand-Cerf Paris, and more are just a few of the alleys you should check out.
Travel tips in Paris in February
- Be sure to book in advance, ideally a few months in advance if traveling during the off peak months like February. In general, airfare and train fares tend to be on the cheap in February.
- Always check if the attractions you book online for this month are open. It’s common for winter to be the offseason for museums, amusement parks, and other tourist destinations. Always double-check the website to make sure it is open during the off-season.
- Extensive outdoor excursions and day trips are not advised at this time of year. On a clear, cold day, strolling through Paris’s most beautiful parks and gardens and across the city’s historic bridges is the perfect way to see the city in February. On other days, you may prefer to stay inside. This is Paris, though, so even on a dreary day, there’s a lot of indoor attractions to visit.
- Keep an eye out for potential pickpockets. Paris may be a gorgeous city, but it is also notorious for pickpocketing. This becomes even more of a problem when winter arrives. Thieves know that this is the best time to commit their crimes because most people are indoors. Examples are big museums where it is dark and easy to find distracted tourists. Keeping your valuables secure at all times is essential, which is why we advocate using a secure crossbody bag. Keep your wallet and gadgets in your front pocket at all times if you must use a pocket, or better yet, don’t use pockets at all.
Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries and lived in 4 continents in the last 10 years, including France. A self-proclaimed Francophile, I love everything France.