Much like London, there’s around a one in three chance of it raining in Paris when you visit, even in the spring and summer.
The good news is that there’s plenty of things to do anyway, even when “il pleut des cordes” (it’s raining string) – so don’t let a bit of the wet stuff put you off.
Instead, pack your parapluie (that’s an umbrella, to you and me) and see the City of Light in ten different, and thankfully sheltered, ways.
1. Dodge the downpour underground
The Catacombs
Probably one of the most popular choices whether it’s raining or not, Paris’ creepy Catacombs are open every day except Monday.
Back in the 18th century when the Cemetery of the Innocents became too crowded, the bones were dug up and moved to the passageways of the quarry. The underground labyrinths were created by building works – these were the stones that built Paris.
You’ll be greeted at the entrance with the words “Arrête, c’est ici l’empire de la mort” – which means “Halt, this is the realm of Death” – one of the many poems and verses you’ll see throughout the tunnels, reflecting on life and death.
Once inside, you’ll see the bones of famous people from the French Revolution, such as Charlotte Corday, Danton and Robespierre.
2. Visit the department stores
Galeries Lafayette in Paris
Even if you don’t like shopping, there’s definitely another reason to go inside Paris’ famous shopping centres.
The beautiful Art Nouveau glass roof at Galleries Lafayette is one of them: look up and you’ll also see the carved balconies of the store.
Galeries Lafayette
More than 120m people a year visit the luxury Parisian department stores on Boulevard Haussmann. If your budget doesn’t stretch that far, don’t worry: the enticing displays cater for the window shoppers, too.
If you’re into fashion, head to the iconic Bazar de l’Hôtel de Ville in Le Marais, or shelter inside Bon Marché, on the Left Bank, the world’s first department store.
3. Step inside some unusual museums
Hotel de Ville – Paris
Instead of heading to the Louvre, Grand Palace or Orsay, and find yourself huddled under your umbrella queuing to get in, explore some of Paris’ smaller museums.
The Musee Carnavalet is the City of Paris Museum, which traces the history of the French capital from prehistory to the present day. The permanent collections are free to visit.
The collection is housed in the sumptuous setting of a 17th century mansion in the heart of Le Marais.
Petit Palais in Paris
While you’re in the area, head to the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall), where the Mayor of Paris regularly organises free exhibitions in the lounges.
You may also prefer the cozy atmosphere of the Guimet Museum where you will discover the wide range of Asian arts or visit the Petit Palais, a more intimate gallery than its more famous big brother.
4. Warm up with a “Chocolat Chaud”
The “Belle Epoque” building at Angelina, on rue de Rivoli, is home to the perfect hot chocolate. Thick, comforting, with a little whipped cream pot on the side, all served up in an elegant and refined tearoom, which is the essence of Paris.
If you’re feeling really decadent, try the classic at Angelina – the “Mont Blanc”. It’s a meringue with whipped cream and chestnut puree, a big hit with Parisians since 1903.
5. See what’s on at the cinema
Want to curl up and watch classic 1950s movies in tiny rooms? Head to the Latin Quarter. Alternatively, venture into one of the newer multiplexes.
Two of the best places to go are the MK2 Quai de Seine and Quai de Loire, they’re opposite each other, separated by the Ourcq canal.
They’ve got spacious and plush seats, including the famous chairs for lovers – the armrests are movable.
One of the biggest cinema complexes in Paris is at the Aquaboulevard in the 15th arrondissement, where there are also swimming pools.
6. Pass the time in some Parisian passageways
At the beginning of the 19th century, architects built hundreds of covered passages or galleries, to connect the narrow streets and buildings.
Emperor Napoléon III’s renovation of the city centre saw many of the 150 passages bulldozed, but fortunately there are still 30 left. Think pretty paving, windows and fine architecture, all protected from the rain. Perfect.
The Grands Boulevards was historically the place “to see and be seen”, or there’s the Passage des Panoramas, the oldest Paris walkway. It has exquisite period fixtures.
Close by is the luxurious Rue Vivienne, with its mosaic floor and boutiques, or the iron-and-glass covered arcade of Passage Brady.
7. Shelter in a famous crypt
Notre Dame, Paris
Notre-Dame de Paris is the most visited tourist monument in France.
And while its majestic arches, stained glass windows and spiral staircases tours of the tower are worth seeing – when its raining the crypt comes into its own.
Opened in 1980, it was built to protect the findings in the foundations beneath the cathedral, situated on the oldest inhabited part of Paris.
The museum will take you on a journey from Antiquity to the 19th century.
8. Warm up in a greenhouse
Walking round a parks might be out of the question, but the city’s greenhouses are another story, like the Jardin des Plantes.
These listed buildings had their fragile 19th century metal structures renovated in 2010. Going inside feels like stepping into one of the Adventures of Adèle Blanc-Sec, the fictional French heroine of Tardi’s historical novels.
There are four natural worlds to explore: tropical plants, cacti, and species from New Caledonia, as well as a section on the history of plants.
The butterfly house and aviary in the Bois de Vincennes Floral – the “green lung of Paris”, is home to some of the finest insect specimens in the world.
Or see rare, topical plants thriving in the warm atmosphere in the botanical gardens of the Greenhouses of Auteuil in Bois de Boulogne.
9. Watch some horse racing
Horse racing in Paris
The Hippodrome d’Auteuil or the Vincennes track, holds events all through the season.
The horses and riders aren’t spared the cold or mud, but you’ll be well protected in the stands.
10. And finally, here’s something different
The Recycling Plant is a concept place, as well as being a cool bar and party venue.
You’ll find it near the flea market at Porte de Clignancourt, where what was once a disused station off the ring road, is now a highly highly respected eco-friendly place full of surprises.
On the off chance you’ve got an old lamp that needs fixing, drop into René’s workshop – he’ll fix it for you. He’s a one-man band though, so there might be a long wait.
The affordable organic food at the Café-Cantine of recyclerie might be a better bet (they also cater extremely well for vegetarians and vegans) if you’re pushed for time.
Or perhaps you’d rather feed the chickens down at The Urban Farm, or stick around into the night to see if they’ve got an urban rave going on.
Another alternative eco-venue to visit is Le Comptoir Général.
This is much-loved by Parisians for its African thrift stores, vintage scene and drinks.
Need more help and inspiration?
We’ve put together a guide on doing a day trip to Paris, packed with tips to maximise your time in the capital whatever the weather.
And if you’re thinking of staying for longer, we’ve got plenty of Paris hotels to choose from.
Need help getting there? Get the Eurostar to Paris or you can go by air – here’s our latest deals on Paris flights.
We’d also love to hear your tips for spending time in Paris when it rains – tell us all about it by leaving a comment below.
And finally, remember to check out the weather forecast before you go.
Bon voyage…
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