What to do in Paris when it rains?
What to Do in Paris When It Rains?
It’s raining? That’s the bad news. The good news? We’re pretty used to it, so lucky for you, Paris is full of brilliant things to do when the sky turns moody.
At Les Canards de Paris, we’ve got a whole raft of ideas to help you enjoy the city even in the rain and even forget the weather. So grab your umbrella (or don’t), and follow our lead to discover what to do in Paris when it rains !
1. Get Lost in the “Passages Couverts”
Did you know Paris is full of charming covered passages ? Not only are they perfect places to take shelter when it rains, but they’re also full of history and Parisian flair.
There are around 30 of these hidden gems scattered across the city — many of them near Palais Royal. Originally the heart of luxurious shopping life in the 19th century, they’re still home to lovely shops, cosy restaurants or cafés and stunning architecture.
You can take a guided tour (like this one, or this one) if you're feeling fancy, or just wander and explore on your own. Our favourite? Galerie Vivienne, with its beautiful mosaics and timeless vibe.
Covered passages are the perfect way to enjoy Paris streets even in the rain. So please, skip the soulless shops of Châtelet-Les Halles and dive into something with real Parisian charm.
2. Go Museum Hopping
Rainy sky? Perfect excuse to get a little culture in. With over 130 museums in Paris, you really have no excuse not to.
Of course, you’ve got the classics : Louvre, Orsay, and the rest of the usual suspects. But don’t stop there.
More into sculpture and dreamy gardens? Head to Musée Rodin. Looking for crazy things to do in Paris? The Paris Sewer Museum is weird in the best possible way (yes, it smells fine). Visiting with kids? Musée Grévin’s wax figures are a fun intro to French celebs. Or treat yourself to the magic of Atelier des Lumières — part museum, part immersive light show, all wow.
3. See All of Paris by covered and funny amphibious Bus
You’ve heard it before: Paris is an open-air museum. And rain or not, you don’t want to miss the show. Luckily, we’ve got just the thing to keep you dry and entertained — no poncho required.
Hop on our amphibious covered bus that cruises through the city’s streets… and then, surprise! Splashes right into the Seine. Rain, river — doesn’t matter. You’ll stay dry, we’ve got you covered (literally).
The cherry on top? The guides are so lively and fun, you might not even notice the weather anymore.
Okay, we’ll admit — we’re a bit biased (yes, that’s us behind this one). But with a 4.8-star rating, it seems others agree. And they’re slightly more objective than we are.
4. Experience a Cabaret — Even with Kids!
Wait, wait families : don’t skip this one. Yes, Paris has the legendary Moulin Rouge and Crazy Horse for glittery date nights. But there’s also My First Cabaret, specially created for all ages.
Staged by star choreographer Kamel Ouali at the iconic Paradis Latin, it’s a whirlwind of dance, magic, acrobatics, and joy — no awkward winks, we promise. The show is a visual and vibrant way to escape Parisian rain and enjoy fun things to do in Paris with kids.
A cabaret for kids and grown-ups? Only in the City of Lights.
5. Take a Cooking Class
Rain is a perfect excuse to do what you came for anyway: indulge in French food.
We, french people, are genuinely proud to welcome visitors and share our culinary treasures. And if you leave not only with a full belly but also a little French savoir-faire, even better!
Whether it’s a macaron workshop (here or there), a croissant masterclass (here or there), or learning how to perfectly sear a confit de canard (our personal favourite, obviously), there’s a class for every appetite.
Trust us: rainy days taste better in an apron.
6. Wine (and Cheese!) Tasting
Rain outside? Wine inside. It’s basic math.
Book yourself a cosy wine tasting session and explore the wonderful world of French terroir. Even better — pair it with cheese and you’ve officially leveled up your rainy day. From Bordeaux to Burgundy, Camembert to Comté, it’s an edible geography lesson you won’t forget.
And honestly, isn’t there something deeply satisfying about sipping wine while it rains outside? Add a wedge of cheese and voilà — Paris does grey skies better than anyone.
7. Visit Iconic Landmarks (Indoors!)
Let it rain ; some of Paris’s most legendary landmarks are just as stunning from the inside, if not more.
Our top pick? Opéra Garnier, hands down. You can explore it on your own or through a guided tour! Among the classics, also worth ducking into: the magnificent (and recently fully reopened) Notre-Dame Cathedral, or, if you're feeling royal, Versailles. You could spend four rainy days just in the Hall of Mirrors…
Looking for lesser-known gems? Try Hôtel de la Marine on beautiful Place de la Concorde, or the Conciergerie — history, beauty, and shelter from the rain, all in one.
8. Stroll an Indoor Food Market
Yes, more food. We warned you — it’s kind of an obsession here.
Explore one of Paris’s covered markets where locals shop and snack whether it rains or not.
Our faves? Marché des Enfants Rouges for a global street food vibe, and Marché d’Aligre for a slightly chaotic, very authentic Parisian experience.
In Short: Don’t Let the Rain Dampen Your Paris. Bad weather? No problem. Paris has way enough fascinating indoor attractions, covered adventures and delicious food experiences, to keep your trip exciting, even for weeks.
