When I first arrived in France as an Erasmus architecture student, I was based in Clermont-Ferrand, quite far from the city center of Paris and its iconic Eiffel Tower. Those regular train rides to the capital taught me something valuable: Paris is even more captivating when you visit the surroundings too. Now, after years of living in France and countless high-speed SNCF trains between Toulouse, Orléans (where my French family lives) and Paris (where I often go for work), I’ve discovered that winter offers unique perspectives on Paris’s most popular day trip destinations.
Coming from Romania, where communist-era architecture dominates our cityscapes, my first encounters with France’s magnificent palaces and charming villages felt like stepping into an architectural time machine. While most visitors flock to Paris in summer, winter reveals the soul of French architecture. From Louis XIV’s grand vision at Versailles to medieval towns with their ancient cobblestone streets, winter paints them differently. I discovered that winter reveals the soul of French architecture in ways the busy tourist season never could.
I remember my first winter trip to the Loire Valley – I was still getting used to the French train system and regional architecture, both quite different from what I knew in Romania. What started as family visits to Orléans has turned into years of exploring the surrounding regions, and I’ve learned that the cold season brings a different rhythm to these places – less touristy, more authentic, and perfect for understanding the real France.
My first winter day trip from the Paris region took me to Colmar’s Christmas market – a revelation that changed how I viewed seasonal travel in France. Unlike the contained Christmas markets I knew from my parents’ time in Germany, Colmar’s festive spirit spilled into every street and window. I’ll never forget the house with white teddy bears adorning each window frame – the kind of charming detail that makes French towns unique in winter.
What makes winter exploration particularly special for an architect’s eye is the light. Winter’s subtle illumination strips away the distraction of summer foliage, revealing the true genius of French architectural design. The Haussmanian rooflines with their integrated French balconies – those elegant windows with decorative safety frames that are so quintessentially French – stand out crisp and clear against the winter sky.
So, before getting started, here are all the places that we will cover in this article !
Why Winter Visits Matter: A Local’s Perspective on Paris surroundings
When I tell people to visit Versailles in winter, they often look surprised. But here’s what years of exploring French castles has taught me: each season has its purpose. Want to truly appreciate the Hall of Mirrors without playing human tetris? Visit in winter. Dreaming of those perfectly manicured gardens? That’s your summer trip sorted.
Let me share a secret that took me years to learn: French holiday schedules make or break your experience. I remember visiting Versailles one February, thinking I’d outsmarted the crowds, only to find myself in the middle of “vacances scolaires” (school holidays). Even in winter, I had to shuffle from room to room with surprising patience. Now I always check the French school calendar before planning any château visits – a small step that makes a huge difference.
My most memorable castle visit? Chambord in January. The stark winter light illuminated the famous double-helix staircase in ways I’d never seen in photos, and the reduced crowds meant I could actually stop and sketch architectural details without blocking anyone’s path. French winter decorations, unlike the elaborate displays you might expect from Hollywood movies, embrace a more subtle elegance that actually enhances the architectural features rather than overwhelming them.
Tips for Winter Castle Visits close to Paris
‣ Check “vacances scolaires” dates before planning your trip
‣ Split your Versailles visit: winter for interiors, summer for gardens
‣ Visit major châteaux during lunch hours (French lunch breaks mean fewer visitors)
‣ Look for special winter exhibitions – they’re often less crowded and more detailed
‣ Bring a sketchbook – winter’s quieter atmosphere is perfect for architectural study
Getting Around: The Real Deal with French Winter Train Travel
As an architect who’s spent years crisscrossing France by train, I’ve learned one crucial lesson: the French rail system is both a blessing and a potential challenge, especially in winter. Let me share what I wish someone had told me when I first arrived as an Erasmus student.
First, the good news: French trains are fast, efficient, and can get you to most châteaux and major towns within hours from Paris. The TGV (high-speed train) network is impressive, and watching the French countryside zip by in winter is an experience in itself.
However, here’s something you won’t find in most travel guides: December train strikes are practically a French tradition, especially around Christmas. In fact, they’re so predictable that the 2024 strikes are already scheduled! Having learned this the hard way during my early days here, I now follow a few crucial rules.
Essential Train Travel Tips
‣ Book tickets in advance for better prices (don’t worry – cancellation policies are generous). This is the official website. You can also make comparisons on Omio.
‣ Always check the SNCF strike calendar before planning December trips
‣ Keep the SNCF Connect app handy for real-time updates
‣ Consider booking first-class tickets in winter – they’re often only slightly more expensive and much more comfortable
‣ Have a backup plan for strike days (I’ll share some alternatives below)
‣ Christmas travel? Mark your calendar for September ticket releases
‣ The scenery becomes breathtaking as soon as you leave Paris – any direction works!
As SCNF December strikes are as much a part of French Christmas tradition as mulled wine, you need to adapt. My solution? A three-part backup plan:
Strike-Day Alternatives
- FlixBus: My go-to alternative during strikes. While slower than trains, they’re reliable and often run when trains don’t
- BlaBlaCar: France’s popular carpooling service – I’ve found it especially useful for reaching smaller towns
- Flexibility: Sometimes changing your travel dates by just a day can make all the difference
Tip: Always have the SNCF Connect app installed for real-time updates, but also keep FlixBus and BlaBlaCar apps as backups. Trust me, you’ll thank me in December!
French Winter Weather: A Tale of Three Regions
Coming from Romania, where winter means serious business (think -20°C), I was surprised to discover that France has multiple winter personalities. Let me break down what you really need to know about French winter weather, based on my experience living in different regions:
Northern France: The Real Winter
‣ Temperatures can drop to -10°C
‣ Regular snowfall, especially in Alsace and the northeastern regions
‣ Pack proper winter gear – this isn’t the time for fashion over function
‣ Castle visits require warm, comfortable footwear (those stone floors are cold!)
Southern France (Where I Live Now)
‣ Mild winters with temperatures often reaching 10-15°C in December
‣ More sunny days than the north
‣ Perfect for outdoor architecture photography
‣ Light layers are usually sufficient
‣ Even in Toulouse, we occasionally get cold snaps – don’t be fooled by the “South of France” label
Paris: The Unpredictable One
‣ The city seems to have its own microclimate
‣ Never trust the forecast completely – I always pack a rain jacket, even on “sunny” days
‣ Temperatures typically hover around 5-8°C but feel colder due to humidity
‣ Quick weather changes are common – I’ve experienced four seasons in one day!
Packing Tips
‣ Layer your clothing – French buildings can be very warm inside
‣ Waterproof shoes are essential for Paris
‣ Pack a compact umbrella regardless of forecast
‣ Bring a good camera – winter light is perfect for architectural photography
Essential Winter Planning for Day Trips around Paris: Timings, Events, and Viewpoints
Winter Hours
The Hidden Challenge What took me years to understand about French tourism is that winter hours aren’t just shorter – they’re completely different. Many châteaux that stay open until 10 PM in summer close by 5 PM in winter, and some rooms or sections might be closed entirely. From my experience visiting family in Orléans, I’ve learned to always check the “horaires d’hiver” (winter schedule) on official websites. Versailles, for instance, closes two hours earlier in winter, but makes up for it with spectacular evening events during holiday seasons.
Seasonal Closures and Special Access Each region handles winter differently. While major sites like Versailles or Chambord remain open year-round, smaller châteaux often close completely in January for annual maintenance. However, this presents a unique opportunity for architecture enthusiasts – some sites offer special “behind the scenes” restoration tours during these periods. I once had the privilege of seeing ongoing restoration work at a Loire Valley château, something impossible during peak season.
Winter Events Worth Planning Around
Winter brings unique cultural events that most tourists miss. In Orléans, the Light Festival in February transforms historical facades into canvases for light projections – an architect’s dream for understanding how light interacts with classical French architecture. The château of Vaux-le-Vicomte hosts candlelit evening visits during winter weekends, offering a rare glimpse of how these spaces were originally experienced in the 17th century.
Photography and Viewpoints: An Architect’s Guide
Winter light in France is distinctive – softer and more directional than summer’s harsh sunlight. For architectural photography, I’ve found early morning (around 8:30-10:00 AM) and late afternoon (2:30-4:00 PM) offer the best conditions. Some of my favorite spots include:
‣ Chambord: The north-east corner at sunrise provides a stunning view of the morning light hitting the château’s famous roofline
‣ Versailles: The bare trees in winter reveal perfect symmetrical views from the Hall of Mirrors towards the gardens
‣ Orléans: The Loire riverbanks offer unobstructed views of the city’s historical architecture, especially beautiful during winter sunsets
Hidden Winter Gems: The Best Destinations Near Paris for Day trips
Coming from Romania where distances between cities are vast, I was amazed to discover how many remarkable places lie within two hours of Paris. The easy accessibility of these historical towns still surprises me – each train journey reveals another layer of French architectural heritage. Let me share some alternatives and the usual Versailles-Fontainebleau circuit that are particularly rewarding in winter.
Versailles: The Sun King’s Palace in Winter (40 minutes from Paris)
Living in France, I’ve visited Versailles in every season, and I can tell you that winter transforms Louis XIV’s magnificent palace into something truly special. Without summer crowds blocking the Hall of Mirrors and with bare trees revealing the perfect symmetry of the gardens, you can finally appreciate why this palace became the model for royal architecture across Europe.
Getting There:
‣ RER C from central Paris to Versailles-Château-Rive-Gauche (40 minutes)
‣ Alternative: SNCF train from Montparnasse to Versailles-Chantiers
‣ The RER C from Saint-Michel/Notre-Dame offers the most convenient route for tourists
‣ by private driver, the best option : this one from Viator.
Best Time to Visit:
‣ Arrive at opening (9:00 AM in winter) to experience the Hall of Mirrors without crowds
‣ Visit interiors in the morning when natural light is best for photography
‣ Explore gardens in early afternoon – winter reveals André Le Nôtre’s perfect geometric design
‣ Avoid Tuesdays (closed) and weekends during school holidays
Where to Warm Up:
‣ Ore – Alain Ducasse’s restaurant inside the palace, perfect for elegant lunch
‣ La Flottille: Overlooking the Grand Canal, ideal for warming soups and hot chocolate
‣ Angelina Versailles: Inside the palace, famous for thick hot chocolate and pastries
‣ Brasserie de la Girandole: Near palace gates, authentic French cuisine
Must-See in Winter:
‣ Hall of Mirrors: Winter light creates magical effects through 357 mirrors
‣ King’s and Queen’s State Apartments: Less crowded, allowing time to study details
‣ Royal Chapel: Winter light through stained glass is spectacular
‣ Gardens: Bare trees reveal perfect axes and symmetry of French formal design
‣ Grand Trianon: Louis XIV’s private retreat, beautifully peaceful in winter
Architectural Highlights:
‣ Study the progression from Louis XIII’s hunting lodge to Louis XIV’s royal statement
‣ Notice how the entire architecture channels attention toward the King’s bedroom
‣ Winter reveals the relationship between palace and gardens more clearly
‣ Marble Court’s different colored marble stands out beautifully in winter light
‣ The scale of royal stables becomes apparent without summer foliage
Tips for Winter Visits:
‣ Buy tickets online, Versailles Chateau does not sell tickets on site anymore
‣ Consider the Passport ticket for full access to all estates
‣ Morning visits to main palace, afternoon for Trianon palaces
‣ Gardens are free in winter – take advantage for photography
‣ Check special winter events – evening visits can be magical
‣ Download palace app for detailed architectural history and interactive map
‣ Book restaurant reservations in advance, especially for Ore
Hidden Gems Most Tourists Miss:
‣ Royal Tennis Court: Where the French Revolution effectively began
‣ Service Wings: Often overlooked but essential to understanding palace life
‣ Queen’s Hamlet: Marie Antoinette’s farm, hauntingly beautiful in winter
‣ Coach Gallery: Located in former stables, rarely crowded
‣ Kitchen Gardens: Still producing vegetables using historical methods
Winter Planning Tips:
‣ Dress warmly – palace can be cold despite heating
‣ Wear comfortable, waterproof shoes for garden walks
‣ Bring camera – winter light is perfect for architectural photography
‣ Plan for shorter days – last admission is earlier in winter
‣ Consider combining with Saint-Germain-en-Laye visit
‣ Check calendar for special winter exhibitions
Versailles in winter isn’t just about avoiding crowds – it’s about seeing the palace as it was meant to be seen, when the architecture itself becomes the star. Without summer’s distractions, you can truly appreciate why Louis XIV’s creation became the most imitated palace in Europe.
Chantilly: A Noble Winter Retreat (25 minutes from Paris)
Just 25 minutes from Paris Nord, Chantilly offers a different perspective on French château architecture. Unlike Versailles’s grandeur, Chantilly’s more intimate scale reveals fascinating details in winter light. The château’s reflection in the still winter waters of the grand canal is particularly striking, and without summer’s foliage, you can clearly see how the building was designed to work with its surroundings. Don’t miss the stables – they’re actually grander than the château itself, a quirk that tells you everything about French aristocratic priorities!
Getting There: Take a direct train from Gare du Nord to Chantilly-Gouvieux station. From there, it’s either a scenic 15-minute walk through town or a quick shuttle ride to the château.
Best Time to Visit: Early mornings offer the most dramatic light for photography, especially around the grand canal. The château opens at 10:00 AM, but arriving earlier lets you capture the morning light on the facade.
Where to Warm Up: La Capitainerie, near the château entrance, serves the authentic Chantilly cream – a local specialty that tastes completely different from what you might expect. For a more local experience, Le Hameau restaurant in the château grounds offers warming French classics in a rustic setting. During colder days, the château’s own café provides a perfect vantage point for studying the stable’s architecture while enjoying hot chocolate.
Organized Day trip from Paris to Chantilly with a tour, the best option : this one from Viator.
Giverny: Beyond Monet’s Garden (45 minutes from Paris)
Most visitors skip Giverny in winter, not realizing that this quieter season reveals the village’s architectural character. While Monet’s famous gardens are closed from November to March, the village itself becomes a perfect case study in Norman architecture. Without the distraction of summer blooms, you can clearly see the distinctive features of traditional Norman houses – their timber frames, steep roofs, and unique structural elements that have influenced French rural architecture.
Getting There: Take a train from Paris Saint-Lazare to Vernon (45 minutes), then either the shuttle bus or a 15-minute taxi ride to Giverny.
Best Time to Visit: Late morning offers the best light for photography of the village architecture. While the famous gardens are closed, winter reveals the beautiful structural bones of both the village and Monet’s house exterior.
Where to Warm Up: Le Coin des Artistes serves excellent French comfort food in a historic building where artists once gathered. For something simpler, Ancien Hôtel Baudy maintains its authentic early 20th-century atmosphere – perfect for warming up with hot chocolate while studying the building’s original features.
Organized Day trip from Paris to Chantilly with a tour, the best option : this one from Viator.
Senlis: A Living Architectural Museum (50 minutes from Paris)
A Stone’s Throw from Paris Less than an hour from Paris, Senlis is what I call a “living architectural museum.” Its narrow streets lined with buildings spanning several centuries offer a perfect case study in French architectural evolution. Winter is ideal for appreciating the subtle details of its Gothic cathedral – the bare trees reveal views that are impossible to capture in summer. What I love about Senlis in winter is how the low sun creates sharp shadows that highlight the medieval stonework.
Getting There: Take a bus from Paris Porte Maillot to Senlis (around 45 minutes). While less convenient than train travel, this journey offers views of the changing landscape north of Paris.
Best Time to Visit: The Gothic cathedral looks most impressive in late afternoon light. Winter shadows create dramatic effects on the carved details.
Where to Warm Up: La Crêperie de Senlis, housed in a 16th-century building, offers both sweet and savory crêpes – perfect winter comfort food. For a more sophisticated break, Le Carré serves regional specialties in a beautifully preserved medieval building. Their French onion soup is exactly what you need after exploring in cold weather.
Fontainebleau: Royal Architecture in Winter (1 hour from Paris)
Often overshadowed by Versailles, Fontainebleau offers a more intimate look at French royal architecture. In winter, the famous horseshoe staircase stands out dramatically against the bare trees, and the château’s different architectural periods become easier to study. Unlike Versailles’s unified style, Fontainebleau showcases evolution in French architecture from the 12th to 19th centuries.
Getting There: Direct trains run from Paris Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau-Avon (40 minutes), followed by a short bus ride to the château.
Best Time to Visit: Morning light best highlights the château’s varied architectural elements. The surrounding forest, stripped of leaves, reveals the careful urban planning that positioned the château within its landscape.
Where to Warm Up: L’Axel, near the château, offers excellent French cuisine in a historic setting. For a quicker break, Le Napoleon provides warming drinks and light meals in a building that witnessed centuries of royal history.
Organized Day trip from Paris to Fontainebleu with a tour, the best option : this one from Viator.
Another great option is this one from Tiqets, as it combines it with another castle on the same day !
Loire Valley: Royal Château Trail in Winter (1 hour from Paris)
Having my French family in Orléans has made me intimately familiar with the Loire Valley’s winter charm. When tourists think of châteaux, they usually picture Versailles, but the Loire Valley offers something different – a stunning collection of Renaissance castles where French royalty actually lived and played. Winter strips away the garden glamour, revealing the architectural genius that makes these châteaux architectural masterpieces. I have an entire article about lesser known castles on the Loire Valley that you can check out here, if you have more than a day for a trip from Paris !
Getting There: Take the high-speed SNCF train from Paris Austerlitz to either Orléans (1 hour) or Tours (1h15). Both cities serve as perfect bases for château hopping.
Best Time to Visit: Early winter mornings offer magical misty views of the châteaux. Many castles open at 9:30 AM, and morning visits mean fewer tour groups.
Where to Warm Up:
‣ In Orléans: Le Lift, near the cathedral, serves excellent French cuisine in a historic setting
‣ In Blois: Au Rendez-vous des Pêcheurs offers Loire Valley specialties with castle views
‣ In Amboise: Chez Bruno, near Leonardo da Vinci’s last home, provides perfect winter comfort food
Must-Visit Winter Châteaux:
‣ Chambord: The largest Loire château shows its architectural complexity best in winter light
‣ Chenonceau: The gallery over the river creates stunning winter reflections
‣ Blois: Four different architectural styles in one castle, beautifully highlighted without foliage
‣ Amboise: More intimate royal residence with panoramic Loire Valley views
Organized Day trip from Paris to the Loire Valley with a tour, the best option : this one from Viator.
Provins: Medieval Architecture in Winter (1.5 hours from Paris)
in Winter This UNESCO-listed medieval town, about 1.5 hours from Paris, becomes particularly atmospheric in winter. As an architect, what fascinates me here is how well-preserved the medieval urban planning remains. The winter months reveal the town’s defensive architecture more clearly – you can actually trace the old ramparts without summer vegetation obscuring the view. The 12th-century Tour César provides a perfect study in medieval military architecture, and winter visitors often have it almost to themselves.
Getting There: Direct trains run from Paris Gare de l’Est to Provins. The medieval upper town is a 15-minute walk uphill from the station – a walk that offers increasingly impressive views of the ramparts.
Best Time to Visit: Early afternoon light best highlights the medieval stonework. Visit on weekdays to have the ramparts almost to yourself.
Where to Warm Up: La Roseraie, housed in a 13th-century building, offers medieval-inspired hot drinks and pastries. Their rose-flavored hot chocolate is a local specialty worth trying. For a heartier meal, Le César Tour near the famous tower serves traditional Briard cuisine – perfect for cold winter days.
Organized Day trip from Paris to the Provins with a private guide, the best option : this one from Viator.
Disneyland Paris: Magical Winter Wonderland (40 minutes from Paris)
While it might seem unusual for an architect to recommend Disneyland Paris, this one is one of my favourites winter day trips from Paris ! Winter transforms this popular day trip destination into a unique spectacle, with shorter queues (make sure to avoid Christmas days) and spectacular holiday decorations. The attention to architectural detail in Main Street USA and Sleeping Beauty Castle becomes more apparent without summer crowds, and the winter illuminations create stunning photography opportunities.
Getting There: Direct RER A train from central Paris to Marne-la-Vallée-Chessy station. The park entrance is directly outside the station, making it one of the easiest day trips from Paris. You can read all the exact information in this article.
Best Time to Visit: Arrive at park opening (usually 10:00 AM) to enjoy shorter morning queues. Winter weekdays outside school holidays offer the best experience.
Where to Warm Up: Walt’s – An American Restaurant on Main Street provides both excellent food and a perfect view of the winter parade. For a quick break, Cable Car Bake Shop offers warming drinks and treats in a charming Victorian setting.
Buy your tickets in advance if you are visiting close to Christmas time ! I have an entire article about Disneyland Paris at Christmas, make sure to check it out !
Reims: Champagne and Cathedrals (45 minutes from Paris)
Famous for both champagne and coronations, Reims offers a perfect winter day trip combining wine tasting and magnificent architecture. The Cathedral of Notre-Dame, where French kings were crowned, reveals its Gothic splendor particularly well in winter light. The champagne houses, with their medieval chalk cellars, provide perfect shelter on cold days.
Getting There: Direct TGV from Paris Est to Reims takes just 45 minutes, making it an ideal day trip destination.
Best Time to Visit: Morning visits to the cathedral, followed by afternoon champagne house tours. Most major champagne houses require advance booking.
Where to Warm Up: After a cellar tour at Taittinger or Veuve Clicquot, enjoy lunch at Le Foch near the cathedral. Café du Palais, with its Art Deco interior, offers a perfect afternoon break.
Colmar: Alsatian Winter Charm (2h20 by TGV)
The cobblestone streets of Colmar transform into a winter fairytale, especially during the Christmas season. As an architect, I’m fascinated by the well-preserved medieval timber-framed houses that line the canals of “Little Venice.” The winter light perfectly highlights the intricate details of these historical buildings, and without summer tourists, you can truly appreciate the authentic Alsatian architecture. If you want to discover other winter markets in France, I have an entire article about it that you can check out.
Getting There: Take a high-speed SNCF train from Paris Est to Colmar. While it’s a longer journey, the beautiful scenery of eastern France makes it worthwhile.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon light creates magical reflections on the canals. The Christmas market period (late November to December) offers unique atmosphere but requires advance planning.
Where to Warm Up: Winstub Schwendi serves traditional Alsatian comfort food in a historic 16th-century building. For wine tasting, head to La Cave de Turckheim in the heart of the old town.
Bordeaux: Wine Capital in Winter (2h04 by TGV)
While pushing the limits of a day trip, Bordeaux’s new high-speed line makes it possible to explore this UNESCO World Heritage city in a day. Winter reveals the elegant 18th-century architecture without summer crowds, and the famous Place de la Bourse creates magical reflections in its water mirror on crisp mornings.
Getting There: Direct TGV from Paris Montparnasse to Bordeaux Saint-Jean takes just over 2 hours.
Best Time to Visit: Arrive early to maximize your day. The city center is compact and walkable, perfect for architectural exploration.
Where to Warm Up: La Tupina offers traditional southwestern French cuisine in a historic setting. For wine tasting, make advance reservations at the Cité du Vin or visit the Bar à Vin of the Maison du Vin de Bordeaux.
Mont Saint-Michel: Tidal Island Magic (4 hours from Paris)
While technically pushing the limits of a day trip, Mont Saint-Michel in winter is worth every minute of the journey. As an architect, I can tell you that winter reveals this UNESCO World Heritage site’s true medieval character. Without summer crowds, you can actually study how this architectural marvel was built on a rocky island, defying both tides and gravity.
Getting There:
‣ High-speed train from Paris Montparnasse to Rennes (2h15)
‣ Then take the dedicated shuttle bus to Mont Saint-Michel (1h15)
‣ tip: Book the earliest train possible to maximize your time on the island
Best Time to Visit:
‣ Check time tables before planning your trip
‣ High tides in winter create spectacular views of the island surrounded by water
‣ Early morning arrivals let you watch the sunrise over the bay
‣ Late afternoon light makes the abbey glow like gold
Where to Warm Up:
‣ La Mère Poulard: Famous for its soufflé omelettes, historic setting dating to 1888
‣ Le Mouton Blanc: Medieval atmosphere with views of the abbey
‣ Les Terrasses Poulard: Perfect for hot chocolate with panoramic bay views
Architecture Highlights in Winter:
‣ The abbey’s Gothic architecture stands stark against winter skies
‣ Rampart walks offer clearer views without summer haze
‣ Medieval streets are easier to photograph without crowds
‣ Tidal patterns create ever-changing views of the architecture
Organized Day trip from Paris to the Provins with a private guide, the best option : this one from Viator. Another great option at a good price point is this one from Tiqets.
Winter Planning Tips for All Destinations
Always check winter opening hours – they often change seasonally
Book restaurants in advance, especially for weekend lunches
Carry a thermos of hot drinks for photography sessions
Wear waterproof shoes – medieval streets can be slippery in winter
Consider weekday visits when possible – these towns are popular weekend destinations for Parisians
Keep your camera batteries warm – cold weather drains them quickly
Check the French school holiday calendar to avoid unexpected crowds
Consider visiting Disneyland Paris and Reims on weekdays to avoid crowds
Combine Colmar with a short visit to Strasbourg if you’re ambitious
Use Bordeaux’s efficient tram system to maximize your limited time
Download city maps offline as backup for winter exploration
Combining Destinations: Creating Perfect Winter Itineraries
One-Day Combinations
‣ Versailles + Saint-Germain-en-Laye: Connected by RER A, perfect for comparing different styles of royal architecture
‣ Chantilly + Senlis: Just 15 minutes apart by bus, offering contrasting architectural periods
‣ Fontainebleau + Provins: Requires early start but provides fascinating architectural contrast between royal and medieval styles
Two-Day Get aways
Option 1: Versailles and surroundings
Option 2: Choice of either Fontainebleau or Chantilly-Senlis combination
Option 3: Colmar and the winter markets
Option 4: 2 Days in Normandy (Mont Saint Michel)
Practical Tips for Combining Visits
‣ Buy train tickets in advance for better rates
‣ Check closing times – they vary by season
‣ Consider lunch timing – French restaurants often close between 2:30-7:00 PM
‣ Always have a backup indoor plan for weather changes
‣ Download offline maps – some smaller towns have limited mobile coverage
‣ Keep your second destination flexible based on weather conditions
Remember that winter days are shorter, so plan your combinations accordingly. I usually recommend focusing on interiors in the morning and exterior photography in the early afternoon when the light is best.
Local Winter Traditions in Paris and France: From Ancient Customs to Warm Gatherings
Having spent winters with my French family in Orléans, I’ve discovered that winter in France is about much more than just Christmas markets. Each region around Paris maintains its own traditions, many of which tourists rarely discover.
Winter Markets Worth Your Time
While everyone knows about Strasbourg’s Christmas market, there are some gems closer to Paris that locals prefer:
Provins Medieval Christmas Market (Early December)
Unlike commercial holiday markets, Provins transforms into a medieval winter feast. Artisans dress in period costumes, and the entire UNESCO-listed town becomes an authentic medieval celebration. What fascinates me as an architect is how the historical buildings become part of the experience – merchants set up in actual medieval halls, and the lighting is designed to highlight the ancient architecture.
Saint-Germain-en-Laye Christmas Village
Just 20 minutes from Paris, this market offers a more authentic experience than the touristy Champs-Élysées version. Local artisans sell traditional crafts, and the market’s layout respects the historical town planning – something I particularly appreciate. The château backdrop makes it especially atmospheric at sunset.
Local Winter Customs and Celebrations (other than Christmas)
La Chandeleur (February 2nd)
This traditional French holiday goes way beyond just eating crêpes. In château towns like Fontainebleau and Versailles, many historical buildings open their kitchens for demonstrations of traditional crêpe making. It’s a rare chance to see these usually closed spaces.
Saint Vincent Celebrations (January)
In towns around Paris, particularly those with wine-making heritage, January brings the celebration of Saint Vincent, patron saint of winemakers. Small towns organize processions through their historic centers, and many wine cellars open for special tastings. This is when you can access some historical wine caves that are usually closed to the public.
Winter Comfort Foods
The Art of Sharing Winter in France brings two cherished dining traditions that you’ll rarely find in warmer months: Raclette and Fondue. These aren’t just meals; they’re social events that French families use to warm up winter weekends.
Raclette, traditionally a shepherds’ meal from the Alps, has become a beloved winter ritual throughout France. Restaurants around châteaux towns often serve it only during winter months. It’s a simple concept – melted cheese scraped over potatoes and charcuterie – but the French turn it into a two or three-hour social gathering. Many historical restaurants in Versailles and Fontainebleau have special raclette evenings during winter.
Fondue follows similar social rules. While tourists might rush through it, French families linger over their bubbling pots of cheese, following traditional customs like doing penance (singing a song or buying a round of drinks) if you lose your bread in the pot. Historic restaurants often serve fondue in their medieval cellars, adding to the winter atmosphere.
How French Families Actually Spend Winter Weekends
Morning Markets
Even in winter, French families maintain their weekend market traditions. The covered markets in Versailles and Saint-Germain-en-Laye become social hubs on cold mornings. This is where you’ll find seasonal specialties like: • Oysters from Normandy (a winter delicacy) • Seasonal wild mushrooms • Hot wine and cider served at market stalls • Winter root vegetables for traditional soups
Sunday Family Traditions
While tourists rush between attractions, French families often spend winter Sundays:
‣ Taking long walks in château gardens (free on first Sundays)
‣ Visiting smaller museums during free admission days
‣ Having extended family lunches that last all afternoon
‣ Exploring historical town centers when shops are closed and streets are quiet
Finding Local Events and Celebrations
The best way to discover authentic winter events is to combine several sources. So, either before going you can check on the internet or have a look on site if available, at:
- ‣ Official Town Websites: Each town’s “Mairie” website lists local events, often only in French but with dates clearly marked
- ‣ Local Tourist Offices: Not just for tourists – they’re excellent resources for winter event calendars
- ‣ Regional Facebook Groups: Join local community groups for real-time updates about events
- ‣ Local Newspapers: Pick up copies of “Le Parisien” with regional sections
- ‣ Cultural Centers: Check programs at the “Centre Culturel” of each town
- ‣ Church Bulletin Boards: Often post information about traditional celebrations
- ‣ Market Vendors: Chat with local sellers – they usually know about upcoming events
- ‣ Train Station Notice Boards: Often display posters for regional festivals
Even if you don’t speak French, learning to recognize key terms like “fête” (festival), “marché” (market), and “animation” (event) will help you spot interesting gatherings. Don’t hesitate to ask locals – in my experience, they’re usually happy to share information about their traditions, especially if you show genuine interest in their cultural heritage.
Beyond the Tourist Trail: Your Winter Journey Through French Heritage
After years of exploring France’s architectural treasures, from Louis XIV’s magnificent Palace of Versailles to charming medieval towns with their cobblestone streets, I’ve learned that winter day trips from Paris offer something truly unique. These popular destinations transform during the cold season, revealing their authentic character through crisp morning light and quieter moments.
Whether you’re taking an hour trip to witness the grandeur of Versailles, enjoying wine tasting in ancient cellars, or exploring charming villages by train, winter provides a different perspective on France’s rich heritage. High-speed SNCF trains make these beautiful day trips accessible, while shorter queues and reduced crowds at major attractions let you appreciate architectural details often missed in peak season.
Remember that the best day trips from Paris aren’t just about ticking boxes – they’re about discovering how centuries of French history shaped these magnificent palaces, medieval towns, and city centers. Each train ride through the beautiful scenery of the French countryside leads to new discoveries, whether you’re exploring the Loire Valley’s château country or wandering through the historic streets of Reims.
Your Winter Travel Checklist
‣Book high-speed train tickets in advance
‣Check winter opening hours for popular day trip destinations
‣Consider combining nearby charming towns
‣Pack layers for both cold outdoor exploring and heated palaces
‣Don’t skip the tasty lunch – it’s part of the French experience
‣Keep your camera ready for that perfect winter light
‣Stay flexible with your schedule – sometimes the best experiences come from unexpected detours
From my Romanian perspective to yours: France’s true beauty lies not just in its famous monuments but in how these historic places continue to live and breathe in winter. So venture beyond the Eiffel Tower, embrace the shorter days and crisp air, and discover why these timeless destinations have captivated visitors for centuries.
Start with closer destinations like Versailles or Chantilly, then gradually expand your exploration to further reaches like Mont Saint-Michel or Colmar. Each journey adds another layer to your understanding of France’s architectural heritage and cultural richness.
I totally agree with your idea that “Paris is even more captivating when you visit the surroundings too.” I love to visit Paris, but I also love to get out of the city and see so much beauty there as well.
I am so glad I found your post. I have a friend going to Paris in February, specifically for a day at Disneyland. I will share this with her because there is so much more to do! Top of my list would be Versaille
I, absolutely agree with you that winter offers great opportunities to explore the outskirts of Paris. I have Chantilly and Fontainebleau on my radar and hope to explore these places by train.
This guide is amazing! I’ve been looking for unique winter day trips from Paris, and these local recommendations are perfect. Can’t wait to explore! Thanks for sharing!