14 fun things to do in Paris when it rains

Are you visiting Paris and it’s pouring? Don’t worry, there are plenty of fun things to do in Paris when it rains. Here are a few tips.

Table of contents hide

1 The best things to do in Paris when it rains

2 When does it rain in Paris?

3 Book a trip to Paris

4 Read more about Paris

Paris is a beautiful city full of romance, art, and history, making it a perfect destination for a fun city break. But we all know that sometimes the weather can be unpredictable, even in this enchanting city. So what to do if you visit Paris and it’s raining? No worries! In this article, read all about the best things to do in Paris when it rains.

The best things to do in Paris when it rains

What to do when it’s raining in Paris? I travel to the French capital quite often and have experienced almost all weather conditions. Several times I walked in the pouring rain but still managed to have a good time in Paris. These are my tips for a fun city break when it rains in Paris.

Visit a museum

Paris is known for its many world-famous museums, and of course, you can have a great time inside! The Louvre is the most famous museum in Paris; it is so big, you can easily spend a full day there.

On the other side of the Seine, you’ll find Musée d’Orsay, another legendary museum. This is housed in a former train station and here you will find works by masters such as Monet, Van Gogh, Degas, Renoir, Gauguin, and many more.

Besides the iconic Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, there are many other fine museums in Paris. For example, visit Centre Pompidou to see modern art or the quaint Musée Picasso for Picasso’s masterpieces. Plenty of museums to choose from!

Read more: The most beautiful museums in Paris

Discover historical monuments

Besides the museums, Paris has plenty of beautiful historical moments to explore when the rain is pouring down. How about the imposing Panthéon, which will give you a fascinating insight into French history.

And despite the tragic fire, Notre Dame Cathedral remains an iconic monument to visit. Although some parts are still under restoration, you can still experience the grandeur of this ancient Gothic splendor.

There is also the imposing Hôtel des Invalides, with the Musée de l’Armée and the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte, where you can wander through the history of the French army and its glory.

Enjoy a cup of coffee in a cozy cafe

Parisian café culture is an experience in itself. It is not just about drinking coffee or tea, but immersing yourself in the atmosphere of this special city. Each café has its charm, whether it’s a classic Parisian brasserie with fancy waiters and marble tables, a cozy corner where locals read their newspapers or a trendy place with hip baristas.

Step into any café and you enter a world where time seems to slow down. The rich aromas of freshly brewed coffee mingle with the murmur of conversations in different languages. As the rain gently taps against the windows, a café offers a warm, cozy refuge.

Pamper yourself with French delicacies

Are you craving sweets? Then, too, you’re in the right place in Paris. The city is known for its abundance of bakeries that offer a plethora of delicious treats, from airy croissants to colorful macarons.

Every street corner harbors a tasty surprise, think golden, crispy croissants that taste like butter and melt in your mouth, or macarons in all the colors of the rainbow, with their perfect balance of crispy exterior and creamy filling. These patisseries are not just stores; they are a treat for the senses. And a perfect place to take shelter if it rains (too) hard.

Check out the covered passages

Shopping in the covered passages of Paris is like stepping back in time, an enchanting experience of elegance and history. These beautiful passages, such as the Galerie Vivienne or the Passage des Panoramas, are like hidden treasures, tucked away in the city streets.

The architecture, with its detailed ironwork and opulent decorations, creates a unique atmosphere. In the passages, you will find boutiques with antiques, art galleries, bookstores, and unique stores. Not only is it shopping, but it feels like a trip through time. A fantastic experience.

Take a boat ride on the Seine

It may sound a little crazy, but a boat ride on the Seine is also an enjoyable activity to do in Paris when it rains. You won’t get wet under the boat’s (glass) roof, enjoying the enchanting view of the city as you sail past the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and other historic landmarks.

You can choose from a variety of boat tours, from a short informative one-hour cruise to a dinner cruise where you can enjoy the view of the beautiful city while eating.

Discover 59 Rivoli

59 Rivoli is an extraordinary cultural complex. This former artists’ squat has been transformed into an artists’ colony, where creativity and innovation come together. The facade is a striking landmark with colorful graffiti and artwork inviting exploration.

Inside, you will find studios and galleries of various artists displaying their work, ranging from painting to sculpture to multimedia installations. It’s a lively place where you also get the chance to see artists at work, engage in conversation, and learn about their inspirations and processes. 59 Rivoli is a special and fun place to visit during a rainy day in Paris.

Visit Opéra Garnier

Opéra Garnier offers an enchanting insight into the splendor of Parisian architecture and opera culture. You’ll feast your eyes as you wander through the opulent building, there are so many extraordinary ornaments to see!

You can visit Opéra Garnier in several ways. So you can join a guided tour if you want to learn more about the building’s special history. But it is also highly recommended to attend a performance. I once went to a dance performance (Carmen, Bizet), a magical experience, also because of the impressive building.

Buy your entrance ticket to Opéra Garnier now.

Explore the Catacombs of Paris

Of course, you also stay dry when you are underground. Therefore, a rainy day is the perfect time to explore the Catacombs of Paris. You will discover the world beneath the city streets, where corridors and tunnels reveal a macabre but fascinating display of bones and skeletons.

This underground maze houses the piled-up remains of millions of people, arranged in an almost artistic manner. As you walk through these dark but fascinating tunnels, you feel the echoes of the past and get a glimpse of the history of Paris hidden deep underground. It is a unique experience that takes you to a mysterious and sometimes uncomfortable side of the city.

Book your ticket to the Catacombs of Paris here (including an audio guide and river cruise).

Go to a wine tasting

France is the land of fine wines, so you can taste wine almost anywhere. Also, of course, in Paris! Many wine bars, wine stores, and tasting rooms in the city offer indoor spaces where you can enjoy a selection of fine wines from different regions of France.

It is a great opportunity to indulge your taste buds and gain a deeper understanding of France’s rich and varied wine culture. Moreover, a wine tasting offers you the opportunity to cozy up inside, enjoy good company, and escape the rain while enjoying the best the French vineyards have to offer.

Visit the wine museum with a wine tasting.

Join a cooking class

Want to learn more about famous French cuisine and love good food? Then a cooking class is highly recommended. Here you will have the chance to discover the secrets of the culinary arts under the guidance of expert chefs.

Whether you are a beginner or already experienced, these courses are a unique opportunity to improve your skills and enjoy preparing authentic French dishes. And afterward you can enjoy a delicious meal!

Book your cooking class here.

Enjoy yourself in Disneyland Paris

From the center of Paris, it is only a 40-minute train ride to the magical Disneyland Paris. This is another fun place to visit during a rainy day. The park has many indoor attractions, shows, and entertainment options, allowing you to keep yourself entertained even if the weather is keeping you inside.

Get your tickets for Disneyland Paris here.

Take a trip to Versailles

Versailles, with its magnificent palace and sprawling gardens, can be worth a visit even on a rainy day. While the weather may not be ideal for enjoying the gardens, there is more than enough to see inside the palace.

Admire the opulent halls filled with extraordinary works of art and historical artifacts. You can spend hours wandering through the lush corridors and admiring the palace’s rich history, unaffected by the rain.

There are also other indoor activities you can do, such as tours of the royal apartments, the Hall of Mirrors, and various museums housed in the palace.

Get your ticket for the Palace of Versailles now.

Just go out and enjoy yourself!

Don’t let the rainy weather stop you from exploring new places! Put on a good raincoat, grab an umbrella, and hit the road.

There are many hidden gems in Paris, such as charming streets, boutiques, and local markets. For example, visit the Montmartre district; even if the weather is not so good, this is a great place to explore. And there are more than enough stores and cafes where you can take refuge for a while.

So, even if the weather doesn’t cooperate, there are still countless fun things to do in Paris! Don’t let a few drops of rain stop you; use these tips to make the most of your visit to this beautiful city.

So grab your umbrella and make the most of it! Have fun exploring Paris even on rainy days!

When does it rain in Paris?

Of course, it is useful to know when to expect rain during your Paris city break. In general, there is no specific rainy season in the city, but there are months when precipitation is more frequent. The months with the highest chance of rain are April, May, and October. However, it is always wise to check the weather forecast before your trip to Paris.

Book a trip to Paris

As you can see, a little bit of rain shouldn’t hold you back if you plan on visiting Paris. Book your trip now!

✈️ Plane tickets – Paris has several international airports. Check WayAway to find the best deals and get cashback on plane tickets.

🚆 Train tickets – Are you interested in a more sustainable way of traveling? France is a great country for trail travel with many high-speed trains. Check Rail Europe for train tickets.

🚘 Rental Car – Would you like to visit the French countryside? Check Rental Cars to find the best deals for rental cars.

💊 Travel insurance – Having good travel insurance will give you peace of mind. Check Insubuy to find the best travel insurance that fits your needs.

🎡 Tours & activities – Are you looking for fun tours and activities in Paris? Check Get Your Guide.

14 fun things to do in Paris when it rains