Paris in winter has one advantage: there are fewer tourists, and the festive lights do the rest. Here are eight ideas for a winter date in Paris, so you can enjoy the city without getting cold, with private experiences that are perfect in every season.
1. Christmas lights
From late November, the avenues and shop windows begin to glow. An early evening stroll is all you need, with a hot chocolate along the way. Our article on Christmas window displays in Paris suggests a route, while our guide to the festive lights shows you where to stop.
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2. A private cruise, even in winter
Yes, you can enjoy the Seine in winter too. Our couples' cruise on the Seine offers daytime departures from 9 am to 6:30 pm from 1 November to 30 March. Enjoy a 90-minute cruise aboard your own private boat with a skipper for €590. The boats can be covered overhead and at the sides, and the retractable roof can be put up mid-cruise if an unexpected shower arrives. The sunset option (+€50) is especially beautiful in the colder months, when night falls early.
3. A yacht with an indoor lounge
The prestige yacht features an indoor cabin with a lounge, blankets on board and a beautifully set table, so you can take in the views while staying warm. The two-hour experience includes a captain, a maître d'hôtel, one bottle of champagne and one bottle of wine, for €1,290.
4. An exceptional yacht, blankets and champagne
For an even more intimate experience, the exceptional yacht on the Seine is a silent, 100% electric boat, with blankets and hats available on board and a complimentary bottle of champagne. Enjoy a 90-minute cruise from Port de Grenelle for €990.
5. Dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant
For a special evening indoors, explore our selection of the best Michelin-starred restaurants in Paris. Be sure to book well in advance: the most sought-after tables fill up weeks ahead.
6. The covered passages
Stay dry and soak up the vintage charm as you explore the arcades of the 2nd arrondissement at your own pace. Read our guide to Paris's covered passages.
7. A helicopter flight
With headsets on, enjoy a 20-minute private flight over the châteaux and landscapes of the Île-de-France region. The couples' helicopter experience costs €690 per helicopter for two. The late-afternoon option (+€150) includes a sunset flight, which comes earlier in winter. If the weather is unsuitable, the flight will be rescheduled or refunded if it cannot take place.
8. Valentine's Day in Paris
Around 14 February, we offer a limited selection for Valentine's Day. Availability is scarce, so it's best to book early.
How to choose
- Worried about the cold: choose a yacht with an indoor lounge or a restaurant.
- Looking for a visual spectacle: see the festive lights or take a sunset cruise.
- After a thrill: try the helicopter flight.
Our tips
- Dress in layers: the wind on the water can make you feel cold quickly.
- Book in advance, especially around Christmas and Valentine's Day.
- Have a warm alternative in mind in case plans change.
Explore all our experiences on our Paris date page, or find inspiration in our 10 ideas for dates in Paris.
Frequently asked questions
Will the cruise still go ahead if it rains or is cold? The boats can be covered, and the retractable roof can be put up. If conditions are too poor, another date will be offered.
Are cruises available in winter? Yes. The couples' cruise runs from 9 am to 6:30 pm from 1 November to 30 March.
Can I plan a surprise date in winter? Yes, we can arrange the experience from start to finish, with options such as decorations, a bouquet or a violinist.
