The beauty of Paris is undeniable, but sometimes even this magical city can be affected by rain. However, there's no need to let the weather spoil your stay in the French capital! Paris is full of wonders to discover and exciting activities to undertake, even when gray clouds dominate the sky. So if you find yourself in Paris in a light rain or torrential downpour, don't let it put you off. On the contrary, take the opportunity to explore a different facet of the City of Light and enjoy unique experiences that are sure to amaze you.
In this article, we present 13 ideas for things to do in Paris when it rains. From cultural visits to playful adventures to underground escapades, there's something for every taste and age. So get ready to discover an unexpected Paris, sheltered from the drops, where enthusiasm and wonder know no bounds. Put on your raincoat, grab your umbrella and let's set off on an adventure to make the most of Paris, even in the rain!
See also our article: What to do in Paris for free? 21 ideas for activities and visits!
1. Visit monuments
Even in the rain, you can explore several Parisian monuments indoors and enjoy a captivating experience. The majestic Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral welcomes you to its sacred precincts, where you can admire its Gothic architecture and discover its cultural treasures. The Arc de Triomphe offers a sheltered experience, with its museum and historical exhibits, offering breathtaking panoramic views from its summit, whatever the weather. The Basilique du Sacré-Coeur in Montmartre, with its vast interior spaces adorned with magnificent mosaics, invites you to dry contemplation. Take advantage of these architectural wonders to discover the history and beauty of Paris, even on rainy days.
Discover other monuments in our top 10 must-see sites in Paris!
2. La Samaritaine
Located in the heart of Paris, La Samaritaine is much more than just a department store. After many years of renovation, this emblematic establishment has reopened its doors to offer visitors a unique experience, even in the rain. From the moment you cross its threshold, you'll be charmed by its refined architecture and sheltered shopping arcades. Explore a vast selection of boutiques offering luxury goods, local creations and trendy fashions. Take time to enjoy a delicious meal in one of the restaurants or relax in its elegant lounge area under a splendid glass roof. La Samaritaine is an ideal getaway to satisfy your shopping cravings or for a stroll on a rainy day in Paris.
3. Paris Aquarium
Come rain or shine, marvel at the wonders of the underwater world at the the Paris Aquarium. This fascinating establishment offers an aquatic haven where you can discover an incredible variety of marine species from the four corners of the globe. From sharks to colorful fish and turtles, each tank transports you into a captivating marine universe. The Aquarium also offers interactive activities for children and adults, including meetings with mediators who share their passion for marine life. Dive into this ocean of wonder and enjoy a fun and educational experience on rainy days in Paris. Book your ticket for the Aquarium de Paris !
4. An escape game
If you're looking for a thrilling activity to brighten up a rainy day in Paris, look no further than an escape game. These immersive escape games plunge you into captivating scenarios where you have to solve riddles and puzzles to get out of a room in a limited time. Gather your team of friends or family and choose from a variety of themes, from police investigations to fantasy adventures. You'll need collaboration, logic and creativity to succeed in your mission. Paris escape games offer carefully designed settings and an interactive experience that guarantees thrills and memorable moments, whatever the weather outside.
5. Cultural visits
Paris is a veritable cultural nugget, and rainy days are the perfect opportunity to explore its many world-renowned museums. Start with the legendary Louvre (ticket and cruise bookable here) , one of the10 must-visit museums in Paris, and home to thousands of works of art, including the famous Mona Lisa. Continue your adventure at the Musée d'Orsay, housed in a former railway station, where you'll discover a remarkable collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. The Centre Pompidou will amaze you with its avant-garde architecture and exhibitions of modern and contemporary art. And don't miss the Musée Rodin, which displays Auguste Rodin's iconic sculptures in an enchanting setting. Each museum offers a unique cultural experience, with artistic masterpieces to awaken your senses and imagination during your rainy stay in Paris.
6. The catacombs
When it rains in Paris, you can venture into the city's mysterious underground catacombs. This unusual tour takes you through a network of underground galleries housing fascinating ossuaries. The bones of millions of Parisians lie here, offering a unique insight into the city's history. Walk through these dark passageways, silent witnesses to bygone times, and let yourself be captivated by the intriguing atmosphere by booking your guided tour ticket ! This extraordinary experience will plunge you into the hidden history of Paris and introduce you to an unusual aspect of the city, far from the bustling arteries of the surface. The catacombs make for an unforgettable excursion that will leave you feeling intense and mysterious, even on a rainy day.
7. Visit specialized museums
Paris also abounds in museums specializing in fascinating and unusual themes. For perfume and aroma enthusiasts, the Musée de la Parfumerie Fragonard offers an olfactory journey through the history of French perfumery. Hunting enthusiasts will be captivated by the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature, featuring works of art and objects related to hunting and wildlife. If you're passionate about music, don't miss the Musée de la Musique, with its exceptional collections of instruments and musical archives. And for a more daring experience, the Musée de l'Érotisme will take you into a sensual and artistic world, with exhibits exploring sexuality through the ages. Explore these atypical museums for a plunge into unique and exciting cultural universes, ideal for an original rainy day in Paris.
8. Bowling
When it's raining in Paris, bowling is the perfect way to have fun with family and friends. Head to one of the city's many bowling complexes, one of the best known being rue Mouffetard, where you can challenge your friends and family in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. You'll find strikes and spares, laughter and friendly competition. Modern, well-maintained lanes promise a pleasant playing experience, whether you're a beginner or an experienced player. Some establishments also offer themed atmospheres, snacks and parties to prolong the fun. Bowling is an entertaining activity accessible to all, perfect for having a good time in the rain and avoiding the elements outside.
9. A cinema session
What better way to escape the rain and enjoy yourself in Paris than at the movies? Take the opportunity to discover the latest blockbusters, award-winning French films or cinema classics in one of the city's many cinemas. Parisian cinemas offer a variety of experiences, from luxury cinemas with retro ambiences, to art house cinemas offering independent and original films. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple or a family, you're sure to find a film to captivate you. Make yourself comfortable in the armchairs, enjoy some popcorn and let yourself be transported into fascinating cinematic universes. The cinema is the perfect escape to relax and have fun on rainy days in Paris.
10. Indoor sports
If you're a sports fan and the rain is preventing you from enjoying outdoor activities, don't worry! Paris offers a variety ofindoor sports options to keep you active and having fun on a rainy day. Join a climbing gym to challenge your agility and strength as you climb secure artificial walls. If you prefer team sports, many sports centers offer indoor soccer, basketball or volleyball courts. Or opt for a swim in one of the city's indoor pools to keep fit while escaping the rain. Whatever your choice, indoor sport offers an energetic and dynamic escape on rainy days in Paris.
11. The covered passages
When the rain starts to fall, explore the timeless charm of Paris's covered passageways. These elegant, historic passages offer the perfect shelter for strolling and shopping. Discover specialty boutiques, bookshops, cafés and art galleries within these passages. Passage des Panoramas, Passage Vivienne and Passage des Princes are among the most famous, each offering its own charm and hidden treasures. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of another era as you admire the superb stained glass windows, period decorations and mosaics that adorn these places. Paris's covered passageways invite you to take a trip back in time, making you forget the rain outside for the duration of your stroll. Make life easier for yourself by opting for a covered passage tour !
12. The greenhouses of the Jardin d'Auteuil
To escape the rain while surrounded by greenery, head to the greenhouses of the Jardin d'Auteuil. This hidden treasure of Paris offers a tropical haven where you can relax and marvel at an incredible variety of exotic plants. Stroll through the avenues lined with majestic palms, colorful orchids and delicate ferns. The greenhouses of the Jardin d'Auteuil are a veritable oasis of nature in the heart of the city, offering a calm and soothing atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing sheltered getaway on a rainy day. Take your time to contemplate the splendors of the tropical flora and let yourself be transported into an enchanting universe where rain becomes an ally to create a unique and refreshing atmosphere.
13. The Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie
Finally, when the rain invites you to stay indoors, head to the Cité des Sciences et de l' Industrie for a fun and educational experience in Paris. This interactive museum is a paradise for the curious of all ages, offering captivating exhibits on science, technology and innovation. Explore diverse topics such as space, physics, the environment and much more through interactive activities, demonstrations and live experiments. Children will love the age-appropriate play and learning zones, while adults will be fascinated by the scientific advances and discoveries on display. Whether you're passionate about science or simply curious to learn, the Cité des Sciences offers you an exciting and rewarding day out, whatever the weather outside. Interested? Book your admission ticket !
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Where to go when you're bored in Paris?
- Montmartre: This bohemian, artistic district attracts many visitors with its cobbled streets, picturesque cafés and panoramic view from the Sacré-Coeur basilica. Montmartre is also famous for its street artists and artisan workshops.
- Champs-Élysées: This iconic avenue is one of the world's most famous, with its luxury boutiques, elegant cafés and cinemas. The Champs-Élysées also hosts festive events throughout the year, such as the July 14th parade.
- The Marais district: Renowned for its historic charm, the Marais is a mix of hip boutiques, art galleries, lively bars and trendy restaurants. It's also a vibrant LGBTQ+ neighborhood with a lively nightlife.
These three neighborhoods are popular with Parisians and tourists alike, and offer a multitude of activities, places to visit and opportunities to discover to suit all tastes.
Where to go with your girlfriend when it rains?
When it's raining in Paris, here are three charming places to visit with your girlfriend for a romantic moment under shelter:
- Musée de la Vie romantique: Located in the Nouvelle Athènes district, this intimate and enchanting museum is dedicated to the art and culture of the 19th century. You can admire works by romantic artists while soaking up the cozy ambience. The museum's tearoom is also the ideal place to enjoy a relaxing moment over a hot drink.
- Covered passages: These historic passages, such as Passage Vivienne or Passage des Panoramas, offer a romantic atmosphere with their picturesque architecture and charming boutiques. You can stroll hand in hand, explore the unusual boutiques and enjoy an intimate moment sheltered from the rain.
- Palais Garnier: For an unforgettable theatrical experience, attend a performance at the Opéra Garnier. The splendor of this magnificent opera house is sure to charm your girlfriend. Even if you can't attend a performance, you can opt for a guided tour of this architectural gem to discover all its secrets together.
