Visiting Paris in November: The best things to do despite the cold and rain
November is a special time to discover Paris. The days get shorter, temperatures drop and rainy weather sometimes becomes part of the experience. Yet the French capital never loses its charm. In fact, it is a wonderful opportunity to explore its museums, covered passages, historic cafés and neighbourhoods from a different perspective.
Whether you are visiting Paris for a weekend or staying for a few days, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the city without letting the weather dictate your plans. Here are our top ideas for making the most of Paris in November.
1. Explore Paris’s Famous Museums
When temperatures drop, museums are a great way to spend a few hours discovering art, history and culture.
The Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Musée de l’Orangerie and Musée Rodin are among the city’s most iconic cultural destinations, each offering outstanding collections in remarkable settings.
For something a little different, you can also visit the Musée Carnavalet, dedicated to the history of Paris, or the Musée des Arts et Métiers, which explores science, technology and innovation.
Our tip: Rather than trying to visit several museums in one day, choose one or two and take your time. Booking tickets in advance is a good idea, especially for the most popular attractions.
2. Discover Paris’s Historic Covered Passages
Paris’s covered passages are among the city’s hidden architectural treasures. Protected from the rain, they offer a unique atmosphere, with glass roofs, historic shops, bookshops and charming restaurants.
Some of the most beautiful passages to explore include:
- Galerie Vivienne, famous for its elegant architecture and beautiful mosaic floors.
- Passage des Panoramas, one of the oldest covered passages in Paris.
- Passage Jouffroy, with its traditional shops and historic atmosphere.
- Passage Verdeau, a favourite among visitors looking for antique books and unusual objects.
These passages are perfect for discovering another side of Paris while staying sheltered from the weather.
3. Visit Paris’s Department Stores and Their Window Displays
In November, Paris’s major department stores gradually begin preparing for the festive season. Their window displays become increasingly elaborate, offering a preview of the Christmas atmosphere to come.
Head to Boulevard Haussmann to visit Galeries Lafayette and Printemps. Explore their different floors, enjoy some shopping or simply admire the seasonal decorations.
Don’t miss the rooftop terraces either. When the weather allows, they offer beautiful views across Paris and its iconic rooftops.
4. Take a Break in a Traditional Parisian Café
Sometimes, the best thing to do in Paris is simply to slow down.
In November, cafés become inviting places to warm up after a walk, enjoy a hot chocolate or watch Parisian life unfold through the window.
You can settle down in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, around Boulevard du Montparnasse or in one of the small streets of Le Marais.
Take your time, read a few pages, plan the rest of your day or simply enjoy the atmosphere. That is also part of discovering Paris.
5. Enjoy a Seine River Cruise
Even when temperatures start to fall, a cruise along the Seine remains a wonderful way to discover Paris.
From the river, you can admire the Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, the Louvre, Notre-Dame Cathedral and the many bridges that cross the city.
Some cruise operators offer boats with heated indoor seating and panoramic windows, making them particularly comfortable during autumn and winter.
It is an excellent option if you want to see several of Paris’s landmarks without spending the day walking between them.
6. Explore Paris’s Covered Food Markets
Covered markets offer a glimpse into everyday Parisian life. Sheltered from the weather, they are filled with fresh produce, French specialities, cheese, pastries and food stalls.
Here are three markets worth discovering:
- Marché des Enfants Rouges, in Le Marais, known for its friendly atmosphere and diverse food stalls.
- Marché Saint-Quentin, near Gare de l’Est, with a variety of food shops and local produce.
- Marché couvert Beauvau, on Place d’Aligre, appreciated for its authentic neighbourhood atmosphere.
It is a great opportunity to taste local specialities and experience Paris beyond its famous monuments.
7. Enjoy a Theatre Show or Live Performance
November is also a great time to experience Paris’s vibrant cultural scene.
The city is home to countless theatres, concert venues and cabarets. Depending on your interests, you can book a comedy show, a play, a concert or a musical performance.
Areas such as Grands Boulevards, Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Opéra district offer plenty of options for an enjoyable evening out.
Check the programmes before your trip and consider booking tickets in advance.
8. Go Shopping in Paris’s Most Famous Neighbourhoods
A rainy day can also be the perfect opportunity to explore Paris’s shopping districts.
Le Marais is known for its independent boutiques, concept stores and designer shops. Saint-Germain-des-Prés offers a more elegant shopping experience, with bookshops, art galleries and fashion boutiques.
If you prefer major international brands, the streets around Opéra and the department stores on Boulevard Haussmann are excellent places to start.
Shopping is also a great way to discover the character of Paris’s different neighbourhoods.
9. Enjoy a Cinema Experience
When the rain sets in, why not spend a few hours at the cinema?
Paris has a wide range of movie theatres, from large cinemas to independent and art-house venues. Some offer international films, original-language screenings and more alternative productions.
The Latin Quarter, the Grands Boulevards area and Le Marais are home to several interesting cinemas.
It is a lovely way to take a break between sightseeing activities.
10. Enjoy the First Signs of Christmas in Paris
From November onwards, Paris gradually begins to embrace the festive season. Christmas decorations start appearing, some streets light up and the department stores prepare their famous holiday window displays.
Boulevard Haussmann is particularly worth visiting to admire the decorations at the major department stores. You can also explore the city’s shopping districts and discover the first festive installations.
As opening dates and lighting schedules vary each year, check the latest information before heading out.
Where to Stay in Paris to Make the Most of Your November Visit
In November, choosing the right accommodation can make all the difference. After a full day of sightseeing, walks and cultural discoveries, it is nice to return to a comfortable apartment where you can relax and plan the rest of your stay.
Staying in a well-connected location also makes it easier to reach Paris’s main neighbourhoods, public transport links and iconic attractions.
With B’Your Home, discover our apartments in the heart of Paris and enjoy a stay that lets you experience the city at your own pace.
Paris is waiting for you, even in November.
Explore our apartments at B’Your Home and find your next Parisian home away from home.