Weather in Paris in February

While the masses flock to the City of Light in summer, seasoned globetrotters know that winter in Paris offers a charm all its own. Sure, it's chilly, but with the right mindset (and a good coat), you'll discover a side of the French capital that many never see. Here’s our guide to the weather in Paris in February.

Is February a good time to visit Paris?

February can be a good month to visit Paris, depending on your tolerance for cold weather. The weather in Paris in February is typically chilly and damp, as it's still winter in the French capital. 

While some might balk at the idea of visiting during the coldest month, February in Paris offers a tranquility often missing during the bustling summer months. Gone are the throngs of tourists jostling for space at the Louvre or queuing for hours at the Eiffel Tower. Instead, you'll find a more intimate experience of the city. For those who don't mind bundling up, walking through the city's beautiful parks and gardens can be a serene experience.

Sunshine, average temperatures, and rainfall in February

The weather in Paris in February is firmly winter, with average daytime temperatures hovering around 8°C (46°F) and nighttime lows often dipping to 3°C (37°F) or below. The skies are usually overcast, but you might get the occasional sunny break. Days are slowly getting longer, with about 10 hours of daylight—sunrise is around 8:00 AM, and sunset is around 6:00 PM.

Rainfall is common, with an average of 45mm spread over about 13 days of the month. Snow is possible, though not frequent, typically occurring only a few days per month if at all.

Given these conditions, packing warm, waterproof clothing is essential. Bring a good winter coat, layers for insulation, waterproof boots.

Want to know more about the weather in Paris in winter? Read our guides to the weather in Paris in December and January.

What about the crowds & costs?

February in Paris means the low season for tourism. Many of the popular sites like museums are less hectic and less crowded. You’ll find a more authentic atmosphere in cafes and neighborhoods. 

The low crowds also mean in general lower costs to travel. Most accommodations are cheaper in February, and you can usually find pretty good deals on plane tickets. 

Being the popular romantic city that it is, you can expect a spike around Valentine's Day.

What to do in Paris in February

With the winter slowly thawing in the city, there's tons to do. Here are some ideas, or see our guide to the best things to do in France. 

Enjoy hot chocolate at Angelina

Warm up with a decadent cup of hot chocolate at the famous Angelina tearoom on Rue de Rivoli. Known for its thick, rich "chocolat chaud à l'ancienne," Angelina has been a Parisian institution since 1903. The elegant Belle Époque interior provides a cozy retreat from the winter chill, making it a perfect spot to indulge in their signature hot chocolate and pastries.

Warm up in the tropical greenhouses of the Jardin des Plantes

Escape the cold by visiting the tropical greenhouses (Les Grandes Serres) in the Jardin des Plantes. These historic glasshouses, dating back to the 19th century, house a diverse collection of exotic plants from tropical and subtropical regions. The warm, humid environment offers a refreshing contrast to the winter weather outside.

The Paris-Vincennes Mer et Vigne Show

Experience the Paris-Vincennes Mer et Vigne Show, an annual event that brings together food and wine producers from all over France. Held at the Parc Floral de Paris, this exhibition offers visitors the chance to sample and purchase a wide variety of regional specialties, wines, and gourmet products.

Celebrate Valentine's Day with a Seine River dinner cruise

Give in to the romantic atmosphere of Paris on Valentine's Day with a Seine River dinner cruise. Many companies offer special Valentine's packages, combining gourmet dining with stunning views of illuminated Parisian landmarks. Glide past iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre while enjoying a multi-course meal and champagne. 

Enjoy Mardi Gras celebrations and parades

Join in the festive spirit of Mardi Gras, known as Carnaval de Paris, which typically falls in February. The main event is the lively Grande Parade de Paris, featuring colorful costumes, music, and dancing through the streets of the city. The parade route often includes major landmarks and ends with a grand celebration.

Plan your trip to Paris in February

Planning a trip to Paris? Start by exploring our curated itineraries, designed to guide you through the city's top sights, from the iconic Eiffel Tower to the hidden gems of Montmartre. Looking for the perfect place to stay? Our in-depth articles feature the best neighborhoods, packed with local expert tips. For a broader look at Paris and beyond, don’t forget to pick up a copy of “The Rough Guide to France.”

Ready for your dream trip to France?

Plan your trip yourself, or let our local travel experts handle it for you. Our tailor-made trips take care of all the details, from planning to booking, offering you a seamless experience with 24/7 support. Explore these sample trip ideas:

• Taste of three (10 days): Discover Belgium's Brussels, Ghent, and Bruges. Train to Strasbourg for Alsace. From Basel, explore Switzerland's Zermatt, Matterhorn, and Mount Pilatus.
• Walking tour of out-of-the-way France (14 days): Experience Paris like a local, then journey south for a scenic walking tour through Southern France, ending near Avignon.
• Southern France (10 days): Begin in Marseille, visit Cassis, then explore Provence’s Alpilles region on foot from Les Baux to St. Remy, finishing in Avignon.

Ready to start planning? See our trip ideas gallery for more inspiration.