Paris in Winter: What to Wear

Got a winter trip planned to Paris, France? Paris can be fun to visit in the winter, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is cold and dry, with temperatures averaging around 46°F (that's 8°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

First and foremost, you'll need to dress warmly, as the temperatures can drop below freezing. A coat, scarf, and hat are going to be essential. Layering is also key, so consider wearing a sweater or vest under your coat. Boots with some grip are a good choice of footwear, as they'll keep your feet warm and dry whatever the conditions.

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Paris in winter—whether you're visiting the Eiffel Tower, strolling along the Champs-Élysées, admiring the Notre Dame Cathedral, or exploring the Louvre Museum.

🔗 What should women wear in Paris in winter?

Paris in winter is generally cold, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: jeans, long-sleeved shirts, and sweaters. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Paris has to offer. And don't forget, Paris is a fashion-forward destination, so don't be afraid to show off your style—and pack something classy if you plan to enjoy the nightlife.

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Paris, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:

🔗 Long-sleeved shirts

Long-sleeved shirts are an essential part of any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, and they offer sun protection on bright days. When choosing a long-sleeved shirt for Paris, it's important to look for one that is comfortable and breathable. A lightweight cotton shirt is a good option, as it will keep you cool in warm weather and can be layered under a sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. It's also a good idea to choose a shirt in a neutral color that can be easily paired with other items in your suitcase.

These options are both stylish and comfy:

🔗 Sweaters

Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in Paris. They also take up less space than other types of warm clothing, so you can pack more sweaters into your suitcase without sacrificing style. When choosing sweaters for travel, look for ones that are made of wrinkle-resistant fabric, such as Merino wool or cashmere. These materials will help to keep you warm without adding bulk.

These options are both stylish and comfy:

🔗 What should men wear in Paris in winter?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: jeans, button-down shirts or polos, and cardigans. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Paris in comfort and style. And if you're planning on going out in the evenings, be sure to bring something nice to wear—Paris has some high-end places you definitely won't want to miss out on.

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Paris, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

Any of these should work:

🔗 Button-down shirts or polos

Button-down shirts or polos are always a good idea to pack. They don't wrinkle easily and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. They're also perfect for layering when the weather gets cooler at night. Pick ones that are comfortable and breathable, and ideally lightweight too. It's also a good idea to choose neutral colors like white, black, or blue as they can be easily teamed with other pieces in your wardrobe.

Any of these should work:

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Paris in winter. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Paris will help make your winter visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Paris has to offer!