Seven Books that Will Boost Your Paris Experience: From Historical Epics to Literary Charms

Embarking on a journey to Paris is like stepping into a realm where history, art, and romance converge on the cobbled streets and along the banks of the Seine. It’s a city that has inspired countless tales, capturing the imaginations of writers for centuries. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to rekindle your love affair with the City of Light, delving into literature set in Paris can enrich your experience in profound ways.

Before you set foot in Paris, immersing yourself in the pages of a historical novel, a tourist guidebook, or a simple fictional tale set in this enchanting city can provide invaluable context, deepen your understanding, and heighten your anticipation.

A book can give you a deeper understanding of the city… this is how.

1. Historical Novels:
Transport yourself to different eras of Parisian history through captivating narratives that intertwine fiction with real events. These novels breathe life into bygone days, offering insights into the city’s evolution, from medieval times to the Belle Époque and beyond. By exploring the intricacies of historical fiction, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Paris’s rich tapestry of culture and heritage.

2. Tourist Guidebooks:
While guidebooks may seem straightforward, they offer indispensable knowledge about Paris’s iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and cultural nuances. Equipping yourself with a reliable guidebook can transform your sightseeing adventures, helping you navigate the city with confidence while uncovering its lesser-known treasures.

3. Fictional Novels Set in Paris:
Immerse yourself in the fictional realms woven by authors who have chosen Paris as the backdrop for their stories. From tales of love and loss to gripping mysteries and coming-of-age sagas, these novels capture the essence of Parisian life in all its complexities. Through the lens of fiction, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the city’s soul, its inhabitants, and their struggles and triumphs.

Now you understand why a book can help you enjoy your trip to Paris even more. But, which are the books you should read before you come to Paris, or maybe that you should buy on the airport before your plane leaves for Paris? Here you have seven suggestions.

love for paris and books

Seven books that will boost your Paris experience!

1. “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown

A gripping thriller that takes readers on a pulse-pounding journey through the streets of Paris, “The Da Vinci Code” unravels a web of secrets, mysteries, and ancient conspiracies. From the Louvre Museum to the elusive Priory of Sion, follow symbologist Robert Langdon and cryptologist Sophie Neveu as they decipher clues hidden within the city’s iconic landmarks.

The Da Vinci Code

As readers read “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown, they will encounter several iconic attractions and museums in Paris, each playing a significant role in the story’s setting and plot. Some of these include:

  1. The Louvre Museum: One of the world’s largest and most famous museums, the Louvre is home to thousands of artworks, including Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, the Mona Lisa. In “The Da Vinci Code,” the Louvre serves as a central location where the story’s mystery begins.
  2. Saint-Sulpice Church: This historic church in the heart of Paris is featured prominently in the novel. Its distinctive architecture and mysterious symbols play a crucial role in the plot’s unfolding.
  3. The Pyramids of the Louvre: These glass pyramids, designed by architect I. M. Pei, stand in the museum’s courtyard and serve as the main entrance to the Louvre. In “The Da Vinci Code,” they are a focal point for some of the story’s key events.
  4. Château de Villette: This grand chateau located outside Paris is featured in the novel as the home of Sir Leigh Teabing, one of the story’s central characters. It adds a sense of intrigue and luxury to the narrative.
  5. The Opéra Garnier: This stunning opera house, known for its ornate architecture and grand interiors, makes an appearance in “The Da Vinci Code.” It provides a backdrop for a crucial scene in the story.
  6. The Ritz Paris: This legendary luxury hotel is mentioned in the novel as a significant location where characters stay and meet, adding to the story’s glamorous setting.

The Da Vinci Code” was first published in March, 2003. It has sold over 80 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling novels of all time. The book has been translated into 44 languages, further extending its global reach and popularity. It was adapted into a film released in 2006, directed by Ron Howard and starring Tom Hanks as Robert Langdon. If you don’t have time to read the book, watch the movie which is full of beautiful Paris scenery, just like the book!

2. “A Moveable Feast” by Ernest Hemingway

A moveable Feast

“A Moveable Feast” is a book written by Ernest Hemingway. It’s about his time living in Paris in the 1920s as a young writer. Hemingway reflects on his experiences in the city and shares memories of his interactions with other famous writers and artists of the time.

The book provides readers with a glimpse into the bohemian lifestyle of Paris during the “Lost Generation” era. Hemingway describes the cafes, bars, and neighborhoods he frequented, capturing the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Paris serves as a central backdrop to Hemingway’s stories, as he recounts his struggles and triumphs as a writer. He writes about his friendships with other literary figures such as F. Scott Fitzgerald, Gertrude Stein, and Ezra Pound, offering insights into their creative processes and the challenges they faced.

Through Hemingway’s vivid descriptions and personal anecdotes, “A Moveable Feast” transports readers to the Paris of the 1920s, allowing them to experience the city through the eyes of one of America’s most celebrated authors. The book is deeply connected to Paris, as it celebrates the city’s beauty, culture, and influence on Hemingway’s life and work.

3. “Les Misérables” by Victor Hugo

“Les Misérables” is a famous novel written by Victor Hugo. It’s a story set in France, particularly in Paris, during the early 19th century. The book follows the lives of several characters, but the main focus is on Jean Valjean, a man who was imprisoned for stealing a loaf of bread to feed his sister’s starving child. After serving a long sentence, Valjean is released but struggles to find acceptance in society because of his past.

The novel explores themes of justice, redemption, and the struggle for a better life. It portrays the harsh realities of poverty and the disparities between different social classes in Paris during that time. Throughout the story, readers encounter various other characters, including Fantine, a struggling mother; Cosette, her daughter whom Valjean adopts; Javert, a relentless police inspector; and Marius, a young revolutionary.

“Les Misérables” is not only a gripping tale but also a social commentary on the conditions of the poor and marginalized in society. Hugo’s vivid descriptions of Paris and its streets add depth to the narrative, immersing readers in the atmosphere of the city.

The novel has been adapted into numerous stage plays, movies, and musicals, making it one of the most enduring stories in literature. Its themes of love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of justice continue to resonate with readers around the world. If you don’t have time to read the book, watch one of the many movies based on the book.

4. “Paris to the Moon” by Adam Gopnik

“Paris to the Moon” is a book written by Adam Gopnik. It’s about his experiences living in Paris with his family. Gopnik is from America, but he moves to Paris for a while because of his job.

In the book, Gopnik writes about the daily life of living in Paris. He talks about things like going to cafes, visiting museums, and exploring the streets of the city. He also writes about the differences between American culture and French culture, and how he and his family adapt to life in Paris.

Gopnik’s writing is funny and insightful. He shares interesting observations about Parisian life and culture, and he also reflects on his own experiences as an American living abroad.

5. “The Paris Wife” by Paula McLain

the paris wife

“The Paris Wife” is a book written by Paula McLain. It tells the story of Ernest Hemingway and his first wife, Hadley Richardson, during their time in Paris in the 1920s.

The book follows their relationship from the moment they meet to their eventual separation. It gives readers a glimpse into the glamorous and vibrant world of Paris in the 1920s, known as the “Lost Generation” era, where many famous writers and artists gathered.

Hadley narrates the story, sharing her perspective on their marriage and the challenges they face. She supports Hemingway as he strives to become a successful writer, but their relationship becomes strained as they navigate the complexities of love, ambition, and infidelity.

Throughout the book, McLain captures the atmosphere of Paris during this time, depicting the cafes, parties, and literary circles that Hemingway and Hadley were a part of. She also delves into the emotional depths of their relationship, portraying both its joys and its struggles.

“The Paris Wife” offers readers a poignant portrayal of love and betrayal against the backdrop of one of the most iconic periods in literary history. It provides insight into the lives of two fascinating individuals and the sacrifices they made for their art and their relationship.

6. “The Little Paris Bookshop” by Nina George

The Little Paris Bookshop

“The Little Paris Bookshop” is a book written by Nina George. It’s about a man named Jean Perdu who owns a floating bookshop on a barge in Paris. Jean calls himself a ‘literary apothecary’ because he believes that books have the power to heal people’s hearts.

Jean Perdu has a unique ability to recommend the perfect book for each person’s emotional needs. He listens to his customers’ problems and then suggests a book that might help them feel better.

The story follows Jean as he embarks on a journey down the Seine River in his bookshop barge. Along the way, he meets interesting characters and discovers more about himself and his own past. The book explores themes of love, loss, and the power of literature to heal and transform.

“The Little Paris Bookshop” is deeply connected to Paris because the city itself plays a central role in the story. From the picturesque streets to the enchanting riverbanks, Paris serves as a backdrop for Jean’s journey of self-discovery and healing. The book beautifully captures the essence of Parisian life and culture, making readers feel like they are right there beside Jean as he navigates the city and its many secrets.

7. “Murder in the Marais” by Cara Black

Murder in the Marais

“Murder in the Marais” is a book written by Cara Black. It’s a mystery novel set in the Marais district of Paris. The story follows a private investigator named Aimée Leduc as she tries to solve a murder case.

Aimée Leduc runs a detective agency with her partner, René. They specialize in computer security, but they also find themselves caught up in solving crimes. When a mysterious elderly Jewish woman asks Aimée to investigate the death of her daughter, Aimée agrees to take on the case.

As Aimée delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers secrets and dangers hidden within the Marais district. The story takes readers on a thrilling journey through the streets of Paris, as Aimée follows clues and encounters suspects in her quest to uncover the truth.

The book is related to the city of Paris because it immerses readers in the vibrant atmosphere of the Marais district. Cara Black vividly describes the narrow streets, bustling markets, and historic buildings of this iconic neighborhood, bringing Paris to life on the pages of the book.

For tourists, “Murder in the Marais” offers a unique opportunity to explore Paris through the lens of a mystery novel. Readers can follow Aimée Leduc as she navigates the city’s landmarks and hidden corners, providing insights into Parisian culture and history along the way. The book combines suspenseful storytelling with vivid descriptions of Paris, making it an engaging and memorable read for anyone interested in both mystery fiction and the City of Light.

Would you rather watch a movie? Here you have two recommendations!

For those who prefer watching movies to reading books, there are two fantastic films that offer a captivating glimpse into the Parisian atmosphere: “Moulin Rouge!” and “Midnight in Paris.”

“Moulin Rouge” from 2001

“Moulin Rouge!” is a vibrant and extravagant musical directed by Baz Luhrmann. Set in the Montmartre district of Paris in the early 20th century, the film follows the story of a young poet named Christian, played by Ewan McGregor, who falls in love with Satine, a beautiful courtesan and star of the Moulin Rouge cabaret, portrayed by Nicole Kidman. The movie features dazzling musical performances, elaborate costumes, and stunning set designs, capturing the bohemian spirit and flamboyant energy of Paris’s nightlife during that era. Through its visually stunning cinematography and memorable soundtrack, “Moulin Rouge!” transports viewers to the colorful and enchanting world of the iconic Parisian cabaret.

moulin rouge in paris

“Midnight in Paris” from 2011

“Midnight in Paris,” directed by Woody Allen, is a whimsical romantic comedy that explores the magic of Paris through the eyes of its protagonist, Gil, played by Owen Wilson. Gil is a nostalgic screenwriter who finds himself transported back in time to the 1920s every night at midnight while wandering the streets of Paris. As he navigates this surreal journey, Gil encounters famous literary and artistic figures from the past, including Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Pablo Picasso. Through its enchanting storyline and picturesque depictions of Parisian landmarks, “Midnight in Paris” captures the timeless allure and romantic charm of the city, making viewers fall in love with Paris all over again.

Midnight in Paris
“Midnight in Paris” with Owen Wilson, Marion Cotillard, Kathy Bates, and Rachel McAdams.

As you prepare for your Parisian adventure, consider diving into these literary treasures to enhance your understanding and appreciation of this magical city. Each book offers a unique perspective, inviting you to explore Paris through the eyes of its inhabitants, past and present.

Now, here’s a challenge for you, dear reader: before you embark on your journey to Paris, pick up one of these books and immerse yourself in its pages. Then, when you arrive in the City of Light, reflect on how your reading experience has enriched your understanding of Paris and share your thoughts in the comments below. And if you have any other book recommendations for fellow travelers seeking to delve deeper into the heart of Paris, we’d love to hear them! Happy reading, and bon voyage!

Five cafes in Paris with fantastic coffee and stunning view.

Paris is known for its charming cafes and stunning views. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a coffee or a picturesque view of the city, Paris has plenty to offer. Here are five fantastic cafes in Paris with a great view, fantastic coffee, and great cakes and food worth tasting.

Café de Flore

Café de Flore is a historic café located in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, one of Paris’s most famous neighborhoods known for its intellectual and artistic history. The café is located on the corner of Boulevard Saint-Germain and Rue Saint-Benoît and has been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike since it first opened in 1887.

Café de Flore is known for its chic and elegant atmosphere, with its classic Art Deco interior design, red velvet banquettes, and marble-topped tables. The café has also been a gathering place for many famous writers, artists, and intellectuals over the years, including Pablo Picasso, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Simone de Beauvoir.

The menu at Café de Flore features classic French dishes, such as croissants, quiches, and escargots, as well as a selection of pastries and desserts. The café is also known for its coffee and tea, with a variety of blends and preparation methods available.

In addition to its indoor seating, Café de Flore also has an outdoor terrace that is particularly popular during the warmer months. From the terrace, visitors can enjoy views of the bustling boulevard and watch the world go by.

cafe de flore in paris

Café Marly

Café Marly is a historic and upscale café located in the heart of Paris, France, in the courtyard of the Louvre Museum. The café is named after Marly-le-Roi, a former royal residence outside Paris.

The Café Marly is known for its beautiful setting and stunning views of the Louvre and the nearby Pyramide du Louvre. The café is housed in a modern glass structure that was designed to blend in with the classic architecture of the Louvre, and its terrace offers a unique vantage point to take in the surrounding sights.

In addition to its picturesque location, Café Marly is also known for its high-quality cuisine and extensive wine list. The menu features classic French dishes, such as escargots, foie gras, and steak tartare, as well as a variety of seasonal and contemporary options.

Café Marly has been a popular destination for locals and tourists since it opened in 1994. It has also been featured in numerous films, including “The Da Vinci Code” and “Midnight in Paris.”

cafe marly with view to the Louvre museum.

Le Café du Musée Rodin

Le Café du Musée Rodin is a charming café located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, adjacent to the Musée Rodin, which houses the works of the renowned French sculptor Auguste Rodin.

The café is set within the museum’s beautiful gardens, surrounded by trees and sculptures, and offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere. It has both indoor and outdoor seating areas, with the outdoor terrace being particularly popular during the warmer months.

Le Café du Musée Rodin offers a range of light meals, pastries, and drinks, all prepared using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes a variety of salads, sandwiches, quiches, and soups, as well as a selection of desserts and pastries. There is also a children’s menu available for younger visitors.

The café is popular not only with museum visitors but also with locals who come to enjoy the tranquil setting and delicious food. It is particularly well-known for its homemade lemonade, which is made fresh daily and is a refreshing and popular choice during the summer months.

Le Café du Musée Rodin

Carette

Carette is a popular café and tea room located in the heart of Paris, in the upscale neighborhood of Trocadéro. The café is situated on the corner of Rue de l’Université and Rue Carette, and is just a short walk from the Eiffel Tower and the Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris.

Carette is known for its elegant and sophisticated atmosphere, with its classic Art Deco interior design, marble-topped tables, and chandeliers. The café also has an outdoor terrace with views of the Eiffel Tower, making it a popular destination for tourists.

The menu at Carette features a variety of French and international dishes, including salads, quiches, sandwiches, and pastries. The café also has an extensive tea selection, with a range of blends and preparation methods available.

One of the standout features of Carette is its bakery, which produces a wide selection of bread, pastries, and cakes daily. Visitors can enjoy a croissant or pain au chocolat with their coffee, or indulge in a macaron or éclair for dessert.

carette paris

Café Panis

Café Panis is a charming café located in the heart of Paris, in the historic district of Marais. The café is situated on the corner of Rue de Jouy and Rue du Pont Louis-Philippe, and is just a short walk from the Seine River and the Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Café Panis is known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, with its cozy interior featuring exposed stone walls, wooden beams, and a fireplace. The café also has an outdoor terrace with views of the nearby Saint-Paul Saint-Louis church.

The menu at Café Panis features a variety of French and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, including soups, salads, sandwiches, and pastries. The café also offers a range of hot and cold beverages, including coffee, tea, and wine.

One of the standout features of Café Panis is its bakery, which produces a wide selection of bread, pastries, and cakes daily. Visitors can enjoy a croissant or pain au chocolat with their coffee, or indulge in a slice of tarte Tatin or chocolate mousse for dessert.

Café Panis is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, and is often busy throughout the day. It is particularly well-known for its brunch, which is served on weekends and features a range of sweet and savory dishes.

cafe panis with view to the notre dame

In conclusion, Paris offers a plethora of cafes with stunning views, each with its own unique charm and ambiance. Whether you’re looking for a historic institution or a cozy spot off the beaten path, a café in Paris is perfect for you. So next time you’re in the City of Light, make sure to check out these five fantastic cafes with a great view.

For more recommendations, interesting articles, and general information about Paris, look around in our Paris Guide.

Recommended activities for teenagers in Paris.

Paris is a fascinating city with a wide range of activities that can appeal to teenagers. Whether it’s exploring iconic landmarks, visiting museums, trying out new food, or experiencing the local culture, there is something for everyone. Here we’ll mention a few activities that interest families with teenagers and teenagers traveling by themselves to Paris. You might not find every suggestion appealing, but if you get some good ideas, this article has succeeded!

Here are some recommended programs for teenagers visiting Paris.

teenager activities in paris

Programs ideal for teenagers in Paris.

1. The Louvre Museum:

The Louvre is one of the most famous museums in the world, and it’s a must-visit for anyone visiting Paris. Teenagers will love exploring the museum’s vast art collection, including the famous Mona Lisa painting. They can also participate in guided tours and workshops catering to teenagers. Some might say museums are boring, but due to the fame of Mona Lisa and other paintings in Louvre, this might still be an interesting program for most teenagers.

2. Eiffel Tower:

No trip to Paris is complete without visiting the Eiffel Tower. Teenagers can take the elevator to the top of the tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city. This is definitely an enjoyable experience, and all teenagers will love taking a selfie from the top of the Eiffel Tower. For an even more unique experience, you should consider having a picnic on the Champ de Mars, the park at the foot of the Eiffel Tower.

3. Seine River Cruise:

A boat cruise along the Seine River is an excellent way to see the city’s famous landmarks, such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, and the Eiffel Tower. Teenagers can enjoy a relaxing and scenic tour while learning about the city’s history and culture. Some cruises include food and drinks, while others only offer sightseeing and a magnificent view. No matter which tour you choose, this program is recommended for teenagers in Paris.

river cruise in paris

4. Street Art Tour:

Paris has a vibrant street art scene, and a guided tour can take teenagers to see some of the city’s most impressive murals and graffiti art. The tour can also include visiting a street art museum and workshops where they can learn to create their own street art. This is a program not well known, but people always love watching street art, and that is especially true among teenagers.

street art paris

If you search for “street art in Paris” on the Internet, you will see what you can expect if you join a street art tour in Paris.

5. Cooking Class:

French cuisine is world-famous, and teenagers can learn to cook some of the classic French dishes by taking a cooking class. They can learn how to make croissants, macarons, or even a three-course meal under the guidance of a professional chef. This program might ignite a spark in teenagers, creating a love for food and cooking. It is also a great program if you want a group to work together with a purpose. In other words, an excellent activity for school classes and individual teenagers in Paris.

6. Shopping:

Paris is known for its fashion, and teenagers can enjoy shopping in the city’s many trendy boutiques and vintage stores. They can also explore the famous Galeries Lafayette department store, which features over 70,000 square meters of retail space and a stunning glass dome. If you want to bring a present home to mum and dad, why not buy some French wine or a bottle of Champagne as a present?

7. Disneyland Paris:

Disneyland Paris is a theme park in Marne-la-Vallée, about 32 kilometers east of Paris. The park opened in 1992 and has since become one of Europe’s most popular tourist attractions, welcoming over 15 million visitors each year.

The park is divided into themed lands, including Fantasyland, Adventureland, Frontierland, and Discoveryland.. Each land offers a variety of rides, shows, and attractions that cater to different age groups and interests.

Some of the most popular attractions at Disneyland Paris include:

  • Space Mountain: a thrilling roller coaster that takes visitors on a high-speed journey through space
  • It’s a Small World: a family-friendly ride that takes visitors on a musical tour of the world
  • Pirates of the Caribbean: a boat ride through a pirate-themed world, featuring animatronic characters and special effects
  • The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror: a haunted elevator ride that drops visitors 13 stories in free fall.

In addition to the rides, Disneyland Paris offers various shows, parades, and character meet-and-greets. Visitors can meet their favorite Disney characters, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and many others.

disneyland in paris with teenager

8. Asterix Park:

Parc Astérix is another popular theme park located about 35 kilometers north of Paris, in Plailly. The park opened in 1989 and is based on the popular French comic book series, Astérix.

The park is divided into six themed zones, each representing a different period of history, including Ancient Greece, Ancient Rome, Egypt, the Vikings, and Gaul (the setting of the Astérix comic books). Each zone offers a variety of attractions, shows, and restaurants that are themed to that particular period.

Some of the most popular attractions at Parc Astérix include:

  • Tonnerre de Zeus: a wooden roller coaster that reaches speeds of up to 80 km/h
  • OzIris: an inverted roller coaster that takes riders on a high-speed journey through ancient Egypt
  • Trace du Hourra: a bobsleigh-style roller coaster that simulates the experience of a Winter Olympic Games luge race.

In addition to the rides, Parc Astérix offers a range of shows and entertainment, including a bird of prey demonstration, a gladiator show, and a dolphin show. Visitors can also meet the characters from the Astérix comic books, including Astérix, Obélix, and Idéfix.

9. Book a great hotel.

Living in a great location is essential if you are a teenager in Paris or if you visit Paris with teenagers. You don’t want to spend your precious time and the patience of the teenagers getting from A to B. In the same way, you might spend some money using public transportation instead of walking all day, as that will tire the teenagers more than necessary.

Where should you stay in Paris? There are lots of hotels to choose from, but we recommend you to plan and book a hotel near the attractions, activities, and museums that you plan on visiting in Paris.


As you come to Paris, don’t think you must see and experience everything the city offers. That will make you stressed and the teenagers angry. Calm down, make some plans, involve the teenagers in the planning, and let them come up with suggestions. Do not forget that eating and drinking is important so stop frequently, take a lot of selfies, and try to make your stay in Paris memorable for the entire family.

Ice Hockey World Championship 2017

The IIHF World Championship 2017 will be arranged in Paris (France) and Cologne (Germany) from May 5th till May 21st. Information about the venue in Paris, tickets and more.

Paris is an amazing city, and this summer we have loads of fantastic programs coming up. But, before the summer arrive fully, there will be thousands of hockey fans coming to Paris to watch the best hockey players in the world participate in the Ice Hockey World Championship 2017.

The tournament will be hosted by Paris and Cologne, and in Paris the venue for the event will be the AccorHotels Arena. This is a very popular concert venue, but in the period between May 5th and May 21st, it will be used for ice hockey. AccorHotels Arena have space for about 15,000 spectators, while the venue in Cologne named Lanxess Arena has space for about 18,000 spectators.

There will be two groups (A and B), and the teams playing in group A will play their group stage matches in Cologne, while the teams in group B will play their matches in Paris.

IIHF World Championship 2017 in Paris and Cologne
IIHF World Championship 2017 in Paris and Cologne

The IIHF World Championship groups

Group A (world ranking in parenthesis)

Russia (2)
United States (4)
Sweden (5)
Slovakia (8)
Germany (10)
Latvia (12)
Denmark (13)
Italy (16)

Group B (world ranking in parenthesis)

Canada (1)
Finland (3)
Czech Republic (6)
Switzerland (7)
Belarus (9)
Norway (11)
France (14)
Slovenia (15)

Tickets for the Ice Hockey World Championship

If you would like to buy tickets for any of the matches during the Ice Hockey World Championship 2017, then you can do so at the following site: Viagogo.

As you visit VIagogo do a search for “IIHF” and you will see tickets for all the different matches available, included group stage matches and the knockout stage matches and the finals.

Stream the event online

If you cannot come to Paris or Cologne to see the matches live, then there will still be chances for you to stream the events online. We do not know yet where you can do so, but we recommend that you visit the IP Address Guide where they will write about how you can stream the event online as the Ice Hockey World Championship approaches.

More about Paris

If you want to find out more about Paris, get ideas for interesting programs or maybe get some hard facts about the most famous attractions, read around in our Paris Guide for more information.

10 things to do in Paris on a winter day

Paris is definitely one of the best European cities which has many things to see and it offers a lot of interesting programs for its tourists no matter which season it might be. But, what can you do if it is freezing cold in Paris? Here are our recommendations.

In this article we have collected the best and funniest things you can do in Paris on a winter day during your holiday. Let’s start with our favorite tips of all.

Christmas market

What else would be our first point if not the Christmas markets. The Christmas markets slowly became an important part of the festive season and it is nowadays definitely one of the most known and awaited events of the winter. Luckily in Paris there are several of these markets in the city. Usually the markets open their gates between the end of November and beginning of December. At the markets you can get your Christmas decorations and other festive objects and if you don’t know what to buy for your loved ones for Christmas try the markets where you can definitely pick the most unique Christmas presents. Apart from all the goodies the market also offer a wide range of drinks and food. Probably the most visited ones in the city are:

  • Christmas market at Notre Dame
  • Christmas market at Montparnasse
  • Christmas village on La Defense esplanade (open from 17th November until 27th December 2016)
  • Christmas market on the Champs-Elysèes (open from 11th November 2016 to 2nd January 2017)

cold-day-in-paris
Paris is beautiful on a cold winter day – Felix Catana / Shutterstock

Paris on ice

Our second tip is similar to our first one because it is actually has something to do with the Christmas markets. So our second advice would be the ice rinks because the Christmas markets and the ice rinks simultaneously appear of the streets of Paris in the beginning of the Christmas period. There are several rinks to choose from but probably the biggest and the most popular ones are the one front of the Paris City Hall (Hôtel de Ville), the one front of the Gare Montparnasse and the one at the Eiffel Tower. Winter would definitely not be completely complete without the ice rinks in Paris. The rinks, same as the Christmas markets, became a big part of the festive season. They are great fun and activity for families, for singles, for couples, for friends for everyone so it is highly recommended on a winter day in Paris.

Museums

Our third tip might sound a little bit boring or maybe stressful at first but actually winter and festive season is one of the best time of the year to check some of the most popular museums of Paris out. Winter can be a little bit cold in Paris during the winter so spending time in a museum might not sound so bad anymore. As winter is also not the most beloved season by the tourists you will not have to fight and compete with the big groups of tourists in the museums and you can just simply enjoy your chosen exhibitions. Luckily there are several good exhibitions are going on always in the city so all you need to do is picking the right museum for your taste.

L ‘ Aquarium de Paris

L’ Aquarium de Paris is one of the best programs on a chilly winter day in Paris and it is also one of the most enjoyable programs for children as well as for adults. In the aquarium of Paris you can see sharks, string rays, turtles and more than 1000 fish from the oceans. In the aquarium you can learn about the marine life of the world and about all the different species living in the open sea and waters. Visitors can also feed and touch the fish and there are various fish themed workshops, cartoons and documentations. The aquarium is open everyday from 10 in the morning until 7 in the evening, the entrance fee for a whole day for an adult costs 20.50 euro.

Disneyland Paris

If you are in Paris and you just want to have pure fun and enjoyment you must visit Disneyland. Paris Disneyland is located in a small town Marne-la-Vallèe only 32 kms away from Paris. This entertainment resort is one of the most visited theme parks in Europe which has two theme parks, resort hotels, a golf course and you can also check the Walt Disney Studios out. Of course there are many roller coasters, laser shooting, Disney and Pixar short films, musical boats and so on, the most popular attractions of the park according to the official site is the Big Thunder Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, It’s a Small World and the list goes on. Apart from this you can shop and eat in the big shopping and eating area of the park called Disney Village. Disneyland is open every day from 10.00 to 19.00 and the Walt Disney Studios from 10.00 to 18.00.

Spa in Paris

What can be more relaxing than spending a cold and chilly winter day in one of the best spas of Paris?! There are several spas to choose from in Paris but the best ones are probably these: Institut Dior, Hotel Plaza Athene, Spa Anne Sèmonin, Le Bristol, George V Spa, Four Seasons Gerorge V and Ritz Spa & Healthclub, Ritz Paris. Lot of the spas in Paris have pools, treatment rooms, fitness area, beauty rooms, saunas, steam baths, wide range of massages, various body treatments and relaxation rooms.

Restaurants

This time of the year is not only perfect if you want to visit the most popular museums but also if you would like to eat out in one of the best restaurants in Paris. During winter the number of the visitors of Paris is nothing compared to the other seasons of the year. They say everything has a good and a bad side, the bright side of the cold winter days in Paris is that you won’t have to compete with a group of tourist in every restaurant to have a table. So take your time and choose the best restaurant out, luckily in Paris there are thousands of good restaurants to eat out.

Aqua world in Paris

The Aquaboulevard de Paris is one of the best choice for families in a winter day in Paris. The Aquaboulevard is the largest urban water park in Europe which contains two wave pools, 11 huge water slides, indoor and outdoor jacuzzis, various water games, lazy rivers and a huge sandy beach. The aqua world has also a huge dining area with different catering points and a parking lot as well. Unfortunately children under the age of 3 are not allowed to enter the facility. The Aquaboulevard is open from Monday to Thursday from 9.00 to 23.00, on Friday from 9.00 to midnight, on Saturday from 8 to midnight and on Sunday from 8.00 to 23.00. The entrance fee for adults is 33 euros, for children above the age of 3 until 11 is 19 euros.

Laser Paris

Laser Paris is laser tag in Paris. It is similar to paintball, but it is just friendlier and less painful. Laser Paris is the biggest laser game in Paris which is located near to the Eiffel Tower and the new shopping centre called Beaugrenelle. The total space of the place is 520 square meters and it is the only place inside Paris where you can play laser tag. Laser tag is perfect with friends, family or colleges. On the official site of Laser Paris you can easily book online the time you and your friends would love to go and play. Laser Paris is open on Tuesday and Thursday from 14.00 until 23.00, on Wednesday and on Saturday from 14.00 to 23.00, on Friday from 16.00 to 23.00, on Sunday from 14.00 to 19.00.

Shopping

In this last point we would like to give you some nice tips where you can go and shop in Paris. There are several shopping malls in Paris but most Parisians prefer window shopping so most of the most famous shopping areas in Paris are located outdoors, but shopping indoors on a winter day is, in our opinion so much better. We will introduce you to two of the best shopping malls you can find in Paris. The first one is the Forum des Halles which is one of the most popular shopping malls located in central Paris and the second one is Les Quatre-Temps, which has also a huge cinema complex showing movies in English with subtitles, is located in the business district of the city. Both of the malls have several restaurants and clothing stores of the well known brands such as Zara and H&M.

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From Galeries Lafayette in Paris – Pavel L Photo and Video / Shutterstock

These are some of our suggestions on what to do in Paris on a cold winter day. Do you have other suggestions or recommendations? Write a comment to share your thoughts and your insight on the subject.