12 Best things to do in Paris when it rains
If you’re planning a trip to Paris, a little rain can feel like a major setback. You might be wondering how to enjoy the city when the weather isn’t cooperating.
Trust me, I’ve been there.
A rainy day in Paris doesn’t have to dampen your spirits. In fact, it can lead to some unforgettable experiences.
Rainy days offer the perfect excuse to dive into Paris’s rich culture and history. There’s an abundance of indoor activities that showcase the city’s charm.
As someone who loves exploring Paris, I’ve found some fantastic spots to visit when the weather takes a turn for the worse.
This guide is for anyone looking to make the most of a rainy day in Paris. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a frequent traveler, you’ll find some great ideas here.
Let’s explore the 12 best things to do in Paris when it rains!
Atelier des Lumières
When it’s raining in Paris, I like to head to the Atelier des Lumières. This place is unlike any other art museum I’ve been to.
Imagine stepping into a space where the walls and floors are covered with moving images of famous artworks. The music and visuals sync perfectly, creating an immersive experience that’s truly one-of-a-kind.
You’ll find Atelier des Lumières in an old factory in the 11th arrondissement.
They feature different artists, so there’s always something new to enjoy. Whether it’s Van Gogh or Klimt, the way they bring these pieces to life is stunning.
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Galeries Lafayette
When it’s raining in Paris, I find myself drawn to Galeries Lafayette. It’s more than just a place to shop.
The building itself is gorgeous, with an incredible glass dome that’s worth seeing. I could spend hours just admiring the architecture.
I always make a beeline for the gourmet food hall. It’s a treat to sample French pastries and cheeses. If you don’t mind a bit of drizzle, the rooftop terrace offers a great view of the city.
Sipping a coffee up there, even in the rain, is a special experience.
If you are looking to spend some time at Galeries Lafayette, you can do a Macaron Class, go to the Fashion Show or even take a Pastry Class!
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Musée de l’Orangerie
When it’s raining in Paris, I love spending time at the Musée de l’Orangerie. This museum is home to Monet’s famous Water Lilies, which are displayed in two oval rooms designed to immerse you in the artwork.
It’s a peaceful and almost meditative experience, perfect for a rainy day.
The museum also features other impressive works by artists like Cézanne, Renoir, and Picasso. It’s not too large, so you can see everything without feeling overwhelmed.
Plus, it’s right next to the Tuileries Garden, which is lovely for a stroll if the rain lets up. From here it is also not too far to the Louvre and on the way there are lots of amazing places to have a hot Chocolate parisian style!
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Catacombs of Paris
Another thing I would recommend doing on a rainy day in Paris is visiting the Catacombs. This underground maze of tunnels and chambers holds the remains of millions of Parisians.
It might sound eerie, but the history and architecture are fascinating.
You get to walk through narrow, dimly lit passageways lined with neatly arranged bones and skulls, which is both spooky and awe-inspiring.
The Catacombs offer a unique glimpse into Paris’s past, far removed from the usual tourist spots. It’s a bit of a descent into the depths of the city, quite literally, and it feels like an adventure.
Just remember to book your tickets ahead of time, as it’s a popular spot.
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Shakespeare and Company
When it’s raining in Paris, I often find myself at Shakespeare and Company. This charming English-language bookstore is the perfect place to escape the weather.
Tucked away on the Left Bank, it has cozy nooks and crannies where you can lose yourself in a good book.
I love grabbing a coffee from the café inside and finding a spot by the window. Watching the rain fall outside while you’re surrounded by books feels magical (at least to me it does).
And if you didn’t bring an umbrella, it’s a great place and good option to wait out the rain.
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Opéra Garnier
When Paris in the rain calls for something special, I head to the Opéra Garnier. This stunning opera house, located in the 9th arrondissement of Paris, is a masterpiece of architecture and design.
Exploring its grand staircases, opulent chandeliers, and beautifully painted ceilings makes for an unforgettable experience.
Spending a rainy day here feels almost magical.
The intricate details and lavish decor transport you to another era. Whether you catch a performance or simply take a guided tour, the Opéra Garnier offers a perfect escape from the wet weather outside.
It’s a great way to enjoy the elegance and history of Paris, rain or shine. You will, however, need to book your tickets beforehand.
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Marché des Enfants Rouges
When it’s raining in Paris, one of my favorite spots to visit is the Marché des Enfants Rouges. This charming market, tucked away in the Marais district, is the oldest covered market Paris has to offer.
It’s a wonderful place to experience local culture and flavors without worrying about the weather.
Spending time in Paris means you’ll inevitably face a rainy day or two, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop.
Grab an umbrella and head to the market, where you can browse fresh produce, flowers, and artisanal goods.
There are also plenty of food stalls offering everything from Moroccan tagines to classic French crepes.
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Palais de Tokyo
When Paris weather takes a turn for the worse, you can also plan to go to the Palais de Tokyo.
If you’re headed to Paris and want to escape the rain, this contemporary art museum is a fantastic choice.
It’s not just a museum but a dynamic cultural space that always has something intriguing on display.
One of the best things about the Palais de Tokyo is its ever-changing exhibits, which range from thought-provoking installations to cutting-edge modern art.
The sheer variety keeps things interesting, and you can easily spend hours exploring.
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Tea Rooms (Ladurée, Elan Café)
When the Paris weather turns gray, I love visiting the tea rooms de Paris. These cozy spots offer a warm retreat from the rain.
Found in the covered passages and galleries, these tea rooms are a wonderful way to experience the French capital’s charm.
I enjoy sitting in these cafés with a cup of tea and a pastry, watching the rain outside. Places like Angelina’s or Ladurée provide a perfect escape, blending comfort and elegance.
Spending time in the tea rooms de Paris is one of my favorite rainy day activities, adding a touch of warmth to the City of Light.
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Wine and Cheese Tasting
Another fun experience to have while escaping the bad weather is to go for a wine and cheese tasting. You get to experience some of the finest flavors the French capital has to offer.
Tastings are often held in cozy cellars or intimate settings, which makes for a perfect escape from the rain.
Pairing different wines with a variety of cheeses is a delightful way to spend your time in Paris.
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Aquarium of Paris – Cinéaqua
When it rains in Paris, I love visiting the Aquarium of Paris – Cinéaqua. Located near the Trocadéro, it’s a great place to spend a rainy day.
This place has an impressive variety of marine life, from bright tropical fish to sleek sharks, all beautifully displayed in spacious tanks.
There’s more to the aquarium than just looking at some fish; they have interactive exhibits and a small cinema with ocean-themed films.
It’s perfect for families and just as interesting if you’re exploring on your own.
You can buy tickets here so you won’t need to stand in line.
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French Cooking Class
When it’s raining in Paris, taking a French cooking class is one of my favorite things to do. It’s a hands-on way to dive into the rich culinary traditions of the city.
There are lots of classes available in English, so you can easily follow along even if your French isn’t perfect.
You get to learn how to make classic French dishes, from delicate pastries to savory mains.
The best part is that you get to enjoy what you’ve made at the end of the class.
It’s a fun and educational way to spend a rainy day, plus you’ll leave with new skills and recipes to try at home.
You can find an amazing choice of cooking classes via this link here.
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