Paris in January: Complete Guide to Weather, Costs, Events & Best Things to Do

Is Paris worth visiting in January? Absolutely. Paris in January offers 30-40% lower hotel prices, minimal crowds at top attractions, and authentic Parisian winter charm. While temperatures hover between 2-8°C, the trade-off is shorter lines at the Louvre, easier bookings at top restaurants, and genuine local experiences. This complete Paris January guide covers weather expectations, daily budget breakdowns, winter events, must-see attractions, and practical transport tips to help you plan the perfect off-season Paris trip.

Paris in January Weather Guide: Temperatures, Snowfall & Daylight

Temperature & Climate Overview

• Average Daytime Temperature: 5-8°C (41-46°F)
• Average Nighttime Temperature: 2-3°C (35-37°F)
• Rainfall: 50-55mm spread across 10-12 days
• Daylight Hours: Approximately 8.5 hours (sunrise ~8:40 AM, sunset ~5:15 PM)
• Snow Probability: Low (3-5 light snow days per year)

What to Pack for Paris in January: Winter Clothing & Travel Essentials

Essential Winter Clothing:

• Waterproof winter coat (knee-length recommended)
• Thermal underlayers and wool sweaters
• Waterproof boots with good traction
• Warm accessories: gloves, scarf, hat
• Compact umbrella
• Layering pieces for indoor heating

Pro Tip: Parisian buildings are well-heated. Dress in removable layers to stay comfortable transitioning between museums, cafés, and outdoor sightseeing.

Paris in January Travel Costs: Daily Budget Breakdown (Budget to Luxury)

Budget Level	Accommodation	Food	Transport	Attractions	Daily Total
Budget	€40-60	€25-35	€8-15	€15-25	€90-135
Mid-Range	€100-150	€50-70	€15-25	€30-50	€195-295
Luxury	€250+	€100+	€30-50	€50+	€430+

Money-Saving Tips for Visiting Paris in January (Museums, Food & Shopping)

• Book Paris Museum Pass (€62-€78): Skip lines at 60+ attractions
• Purchase attraction tickets online: Save time and sometimes 10-15%
• Eat at boulangeries: Fresh sandwiches €5-8, pastries €2-4
• Travel during January sales (Les Soldes): 30-70% off retail

Best Things to Do in Paris in January: Festivals, Sales & Cultural Events

• Epiphany & Galette des Rois (January 6): Traditional French cake is available throughout January at every patisserie. Prices: €15-30 depending on size.
• January Sales (Les Soldes): France’s official winter sales run 4-6 weeks starting early January. Best shopping on Champs-Élysées and Le Marais.
• Chinese New Year Celebrations: Typically late January/early February in the 13th arrondissement. Features dragon dances, parades, and Asian street markets.
• Extended Christmas Markets: Some markets operate through early January. Check Tuileries Garden and La Défense for updated closing dates.
• Winter Concert Series: Classical music performances at Sainte-Chapelle, Notre-Dame district churches, and Philharmonie de Paris.

Getting Around Paris in January: Transport Passes, Airport Transfers & Tips

From Airport to Central Paris

Charles de Gaulle (CDG) Airport:

• RER B Train: €11.45, 30-40 minutes to the city centre
• Roissybus: €16.60 direct to Opéra
• Taxi: €50-60 flat rate to Right Bank

Orly Airport:

• Orlybus + Metro: €11.20, 35-45 minutes
• Taxi: €35-45 flat rate

Best Transport Pass for Your Stay

• 1-2 days: Single t+ tickets or carnet
• 3-4 days: Mobilis daily passes
• 5+ days: Navigo Découverte weekly pass
• Disneyland Paris: Included in Zone 5 coverage

Winter Transport Tips:

Paris metro stations are heated. RER trains run reliably in winter weather. Download the RATP app for real-time updates during potential strikes.

Final Thoughts: Is Paris in January Worth Visiting?

Paris in January rewards savvy travellers with authentic experiences, significant cost savings, and crowd-free access to world-famous museums. While temperatures require warm layers, shorter lines at the Louvre and Versailles, 30% lower accommodation costs, and genuine Parisian café culture make winter the ideal time for focused cultural exploration. Book skip-the-line tickets for major attractions, invest in a Paris Museum Pass, and embrace indoor treasures from the Musée d’Orsay to cosy neighbourhood bistros for an unforgettable off-season Paris adventure. If you want a customised itinerary as per your preferences and budget, check the Paris tour packages from Pickyourtrail. 

FAQ’S 

Q: Is Paris crowded in January?

A: No, January is Paris’s quietest month. Tourist numbers drop 40-50% compared to summer, meaning minimal wait times at attractions and easier restaurant reservations without advance booking.

Q::What should I wear in Paris in January?

A: Layer thermal underwear, sweaters, and a waterproof winter coat. Waterproof boots are essential for wet cobblestones. Parisians dress stylishly even in winter—avoid athletic wear for a more local look.

Q: Is the Eiffel Tower open in January?

A: Yes, the Eiffel Tower operates year-round with the same hours (9 AM – 12:45 AM). Book timed entry tickets online to skip lines. Evening visits offer spectacular illuminated city views during long winter nights.

Q: How much does a 3-day Paris trip cost in January?

A::Budget travellers spend €270-405 total, mid-range visitors €585-885, and luxury travellers €1,290+. January prices are 25-40% lower than the peak summer season for hotels and flights.

Q: Can you see the Eiffel Tower sparkle in January?

A::Yes, the Eiffel Tower light show runs every hour after sunset until 1 AM. With sunset around 5:15 PM in January, you’ll enjoy more evening sparkle hours than in the summer months.