What to do in Paris in February

Though the winter chill lingers on in February in Paris, this time of the year still offers loads of exciting things to do and see. The cold weather in Paris might dissuade some visitors. However, if you would like to feel like you have the entire city all to yourself, this is the perfect time to visit. There are fewer tourists during the winter months in Paris, which means shorter queues and a great opportunity to enjoy the city’s best views, unhurried. 

On top of that, it’s the month of love in the City of Love. Paris is full of romantic streets, dimly lit restaurants, and intimate cocktail bars, providing the perfect backdrop to a romantic getaway. 

Besides, what better place to celebrate Valentine’s Day than in the city of the Eiffel Tower? In order to make your February stay in the city romantic, opt for a cozy boutique hotel in the French capital, or why not try these romantic apartment rentals in Paris. 

Along with that, the month of February also includes a celebration dedicated to crêpes! Can’t get more French than this! For those interested in scoring some good deals, the French winter sales, or les soldes last until 3rd of February. So head to your favourite French department stores and shop your favourite French fashion brands at deep discounts. Refer to HiP ultimate Francophile gift guide for some help with your shopping. 

WEATHER IN PARIS IN FEBRUARY 

Paris weather in February can be unpredictable. Expect a mix of chilly temperatures and occasional rain showers, interspersed with some sunny days. Average temperature hovers around 6 to 8 degrees Celsius (43 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit).

This is definitely the month where you need to master the art of layering to keep warm. Don’t forget your warm coat and chic umbrella! Along with this, comfortable walking shoes (definitely water-proof) are also a no-brainer.

Apart from rain, random spattering of snow could happen in Paris in February, if we get lucky. The French capital has already experienced some magical snowfall this past January, which covered the city in a beautiful white blanket and turned places such as the Eiffel Tower and Montmartre into ethereal wonderlands.

In a nutshell, February weather in Paris is moody – a mix of grey and sunny skies, some rainy days, and the occasional snowflakes. But with the number of things to do and see in the city of light, the weather will be the last thing on your mind. 

THINGS TO DO IN PARIS IN FEBRUARY 

In the very beginning of February, is La Chandeleur or Candlemas, on February 2nd. It symbolizes the expected end to the winter, and prosperity in the coming year. Traditionally, the French mark this day by making crêpes. Wash down your crêpes with some good French cider for a memorable meal in Paris. If you are more into staying in and celebrating at home, we have the secrets for how to make great crêpes.

The Chinese Lunar New Year begins on February 17th. This is celebrated with fervor in several arrondissements of Paris, notably 13th arrondissement, the 3rd arrondissement and Belleville. However, you will notice decorations dedicated to Chinese New Year, popping up even in République and Faubourg Saint-Honoré. There are parades complete with dragons, music and martial arts, organized on Lunar New Year Day. Stay tuned to HiP Paris’ Instagram for all the details about this year’s parade. 

Then comes Valentine’s Day on February 14th. And what better place to celebrate the loved ones in your life, than in the city of love. Stroll along the Seine river, hand in hand, or head to the top of the Eiffel Tower to steal a kiss from your Valentine. Try one of these romantic itineraries in Paris. Or for something more offbeat, discover what Paris locals do with insider addresses for celebrating Valentine’s Day. 

If you are single in Paris, and a bit cheesed off by all the saccharine vibes in the city this month, don’t worry. We got you covered. Here’s a single’s guide to surviving Paris on Valentine’s Day. If you are celebrating with friends, here’s how to have the perfect girl’s night out in Paris.

February is also the best time to indulge in delicious comfort foods and enjoy cozy bars in Paris. I mean, who can say no to mulled wine and raclette!

All in all, February in Paris is definitely a good idea! There’s loads happening in the city to ensure you have a good time despite the cold days. Here are some of the best things to do in Paris this February.

EVENTS IN PARIS IN FEBRUARY

Winter Sales in France, January 7-February 3, 2026

This is the best time to indulge in some retail therapy in Paris. Almost every major brand and department store (including the popular ones like Galeries Lafayette & Printemps) participates in the sales, called les soldes in French. Get your fill of French fashion and lifestyle, with a side of deep discounts, until February 3rd!

Salon de Montrouge, Le Beffroi Montrouge, 13 February to 1 March 2026

Discover the 69th edition of this Salon de Montrouge, where 40 contemporary artists will exhibit their work. You’ll see sculptures, photography, drawings, and video art from a young generation of contemporary artists.

Tattoo Planetarium, the Grande Halle de la Villette, 30 & 31 January, 1 February 2026

The 2026 edition of Tattoo Planetarium will receive 550 tattoo artists from all over the world. This will be the last edition of the event that brings together a huge spectrum of tattoo styles, techniques and influences. There will be a bar and food, concerts, tattoo exhibitions and competitions, plus artists with availabilities if you are in the mood to get a tattoo!

Le Salon de l’Agriculture, Porte de Versailles, 21 February to 1 March 2026

This is an annual event that brings together a wide variety of players from the agricultural world. This includes breeders, producers, unions, ministries and research institutes. Le Salon de l’Agriculture is a benchmark agricultural event, internationally.

Japon en Lumières, Jardin d’Acclimatation, until 8 March

This third edition of the Lantern Festival at the Jardin d’Acclimation is another magical light show, and it runs until March. It features 2000 luminous creations in a celebration of the spirit of Japan, with a series of three spectacular chapters and a French/Japanese food court at the very end!

EXHIBITIONS IN PARIS IN FEBRUARY

George Condo, Musée d’Art Moderne, until February 8, 2026

This is George Condo’s most expansive exhibition yet, showcasing the painter, drawer, and sculptor’s work that bridges classical masters and modern artists through Western art traditions. The beginning of February is your last chance to see it at the Musée d’Art Moderne!

École de Paris, Collection Marek Roefler – Musée de Montmartre, until February 15, 2026

The ‘School of Paris’ describes the remarkable artistic energy of early 20th-century Paris, when artists from across the globe converged in Montmartre and Montparnasse. This exhibition at the Musée de Montmartre marks the first time the Marek Roefler collection has been shown outside its home, showcasing the vital contributions of Polish and Jewish artists to the avant-garde through works by renowned artists like Zadkine and Kisling alongside lesser-known masters. You can still see the exhibition until mid-February!

L’Empire du Sommeil, Musée Marmottan Monet, until March 1, 2026

Co-curated by a science historian and neurologist, this exhibition at Musée Marmottan Monet explores sleep from its symbolic meaning to its impact on artistic creation, tracing how concepts of sleep evolved during the 19th and 20th centuries.

1925-2025 – Cent Ans d’Art Déco, Musée des Arts Décoratifs, until April 26, 2026

The Musée des Arts Décoratifs celebrates the one hundred year anniversary of the 1925 International Exhibition that introduced Art Deco to the world. Nearly 1,000 pieces spanning furniture, fashion, drawings, and more showcase the style’s richness, highlighted by a restored Étoile du Nord train cabin and three models of the future Orient Express.

Philippe Guston – L’ironie de l’histoire, Musée Picasso, until March 1, 2026

At the Musée Picasso, Philip Guston takes the spotlight in an exhibition dedicated to his satirical approach and political defiance. Guston channeled influences from Picasso’s anti-Franco illustrations and George Harriman’s beloved newspaper cartoons into grotesque, darkly humorous paintings charged with rebellious energy.

Gerhard Richter – Fondation Louis Vuitton, until March 2, 2026

German artist Gerhard Richter, one of the world’s most influential contemporary figures, is featured at the Fondation Louis Vuitton’s latest exhibition. There you can find 275 of his works spanning oil paintings, glass and steel sculptures, pencil and ink drawings, watercolors, and overpainted photographs.

Within the Veil, a Grammar, Caroline Kent – Palais de Tokyo, until February 15, 2026

Caroline Kent’s mural Within the Veil, a Grammar transforms the Palais de Tokyo’s entrance hall into a vibrant piece of art. Colorful abstract forms emerge from a black background and extend into three-dimensional wooden elements suggesting a coded alphabet, inviting reflections on language and its complexity.

A Traveling Thread – Musée du Quai Branly, until March 8, 2026

This exhibition at Musée du Quai Branly celebrates the sixty-year friendship between American textile artist Sheila Hicks and art historian Monique Lévi-Strauss. Around twenty pieces from the museum collection are exhibited in dialogue with thirty creations by Hicks, whose bold creations are inspired by Andean weaving techniques and transform yarn into a powerful visual language.

SPORTS IN PARIS IN FEBRUARY

Paris Grand Slam (Judo), Accor Arena, 7 and 8 February 2026

For two days in February, some of the most talented people in judo will be sparring on the mats of the Accor Arena. The Paris Grand Slam is recognized as one of the most important professional events for “judokas,” or people who practice judo, and this year the 52nd edition. Make sure to reserve your place on the website so you can secure a ticket.

10km des Champs-Élysées, 1 February 2026

This iconic Parisian 10k race begins on the most iconic avenue in the world and traverses some of the city’s beautiful areas, such as Parc Monceau and Rue Royale, for an unforgettable race.

Six Nations Tournament, 5 February to 14 March 2026

The Six Nations Tournament will be watched in sports bars across the city throughout February. The six teams, Italy, France, Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and England, go head to head in one of the most anticipated annual rugby tournaments. Plus, certain events will be held at Stade de France, one of Paris’ major arenas! Head to one of the many pubs or bistros across the city to surround yourself with French rugby fans grab and pint.

MUSIC & DANCE IN PARIS IN FEBRUARY

Annie & The Caldwells + Isaiah Collier Plays Coltrane, Théâtre du Châtelet, February 6, 2026

A unique double bill performance featuring Annie Brown Caldwell’s family gospel group performing their 2025 album Can’t Lose My (Soul) alongside young saxophonist Isaiah Collier leading an ensemble in tribute to John Coltrane’s centennial. The evening concludes with jam sessions where artists and the audience continue the celebration in an intimate jazz club setting.

The Paper Kites, Le Trianon, February 26, 2026

Australian alt-folk band The Paper Kites returns to Paris to present their new album If You Go There, I Hope You Find It. With over two billion global streams and their hit “Bloom”, the band has become well-known in modern folk-rock and Americana. The new album explores themes of nature, healing, and hope through intimate and atmospheric songwriting.

Contre, Petit Saint-Martin, January 29 – March 8, 2026

Written and directed by Constance Meyer and Sébastien Pouderoux, the play Contre explores the tumultuous creative partnership of filmmaker John Cassavetes and actress Gena Rowlands during the making of A Woman Under Influence. The piece weaves together three narrative threads that examine the gnawing drive to make art, the status of artists in society, and more.

Chaton, L’Olympia, February 14, 2026

A devoted pop artist who lets his music speak for itself, Chaton has built an impressive catalog of 24 albums and over 200 songs in just seven years, along with his first book, all while maintaining a rare distance from social media and promotional circuits. This Valentine’s Day concert at the legendary Olympia marks a significant milestone for the Paris-born artist.

Bal Canto, Philharmonie de Paris – Grande Salle Pierre Boulez, February 22, 2026

A joyous celebration of Marseille led by saxophonist-composer Raphaël Imbert and vocalist Marion Rampal, Bal Canto brings together an ensemble of musicians and is part of the Massilia Sounds programming (February 19-22). This ball welcomes everyone to join in a festive atmosphere that captures the vibrant spirit of the Mediterranean city through music and dance.

Pompon, Pompon, Théâtre Saint-Georges, running all month long

Created by Pascal Parisot and directed by Patrice Thibaud, this joyful musical comedy for all ages brings François Pompon’s iconic white bear sculpture to life in a whimsical quest for the ice floe he’s never known. When the Musée d’Orsay empties each evening, Pompon enlists Degas’ Little Dancer to investigate whether any of the museum’s other artworks can help him understand this ice he longs for.

CHILDREN’S EVENTS IN PARIS IN FEBRUARY

M.C. Escher, Monnaie de Paris, Until March 1, 2026

France’s first retrospective of Dutch master M.C. Escher showcases the artist’s technical and playful work featuring optical illusions, mind-bending transformations and endless tricks on perception. This family-friendly exhibition combines beautiful drawings and engravings with fun, interactive installations!

Dinosaures – L’expérience immersive, Atelier des Lumières, until February 28, 2026

In this exhibition at Atelier des Lumières, travel back in time 66 million years to the age of dinosaurs. The whole family will be entranced by the immersive landscapes and fauna of prehistoric Earth as you discover dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures – and even the Tyrannosaurus rex!

Mon Premier Ballet – Sleeping Beauty (La Belle au Bois Dormant), Théâtre Mogador, until March 8, 2026

This version of Sleeping Beauty is a ballet specifically adapted for a young audience, but is entertaining for children and adults alike – the perfect family activity for a rainy day in Paris.

Chiens et Chats, Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, until August 30, 2026

This interactive and playful exhibition explores the latest scientific discoveries about our beloved companions, dogs and cats! Visitors can immerse themselves in the minds and bodies of the world’s favorite pets, discovering their remarkable capacities, sensitivity, and intelligence while exploring how they’ve become so important to society.

Paris in February – What to Know and FAQ’s

RELATED LINKS

• It’s almost La Chandeleur! Here are 9 of the best crêpe spots in Paris.
• Eating healthy when it’s cold out doesn’t have to be hard! Check out these healthy French recipes for winter.
• Learning French can seem daunting, but here’s some tips to fast track learning the language.

Written by Pronti Baglary and updated by Zoe Calla Adams for HIP Paris. Looking to travel? Dreaming of buying property in France but don’t know where to start? Looking for off market-deals? Intimidated by searching in a foreign language? Found an apartment you’re dying to view? We’re excited to announce our new property search service. Our expert team helps you secure the perfect home. We connect you with top professionals for every step of the process—from search to purchase. Contact us at info@hipparis.com to learn more.