Happy New Year! If you’re planning to travel to Paris with kids this January, you’re in for a delightful treat. The holiday magic might be winding down, but Paris is far from quiet. In fact, January in Paris is a time of celebration, tradition, and unique experiences that will make your family trip even more memorable. From delicious pastries to thrilling treasure hunts, this is the perfect time to explore the City of Light with your little ones.
Start Your Year with a Thrilling Treasure Hunt Along the Seine
What better way to kick off your New Year adventure in Paris than with an exciting treasure hunt that takes you through the city’s most iconic landmarks? Designed by From Paris with Fun, this self-guided outdoor escape game is a perfect way for families to discover Paris while keeping the kids engaged and entertained.
This treasure hunt starts at the Louvre, where you’ll begin following clues and solving riddles that guide you through the heart of Paris. You’ll pass by famous landmarks, including the Pont des Arts, the Musée d'Orsay, and ultimately finish your adventure at the Eiffel Tower. Along the way, your kids will be too absorbed in solving puzzles to notice they’re walking several kilometers through some of the most breathtaking parts of Paris.
It’s a fun and educational experience that introduces your children to Parisian history and culture in a way that feels like an adventure. Plus, you’ll get to tick off several must-see sights in one go, without the pressure of rushing from one tourist spot to another.
And don’t worry if you feel a little lost—Marion is available to accompany your family for added guidance and fun! With her experience and warmth, Marion ensures your treasure hunt is a smooth, interactive journey, full of surprises and laughter. Her tours have rave reviews on Airbnb, so rest assured, you’ll be in good hands.
Happy New Year – The French Way!
In France, the holiday cheer doesn’t end with New Year’s Day. The French love to extend the festivities well into January with a beloved tradition: the Galette des Rois. This scrumptious pastry, made of flaky puff pastry and filled with almond cream (frangipane), is enjoyed throughout the month to celebrate the Epiphany.
A fun twist to this tradition is that each galette hides a tiny figurine, known as a "fève." The person who finds it in their slice gets to wear a paper crown and be “king” or “queen” for the day. It’s a fun and tasty way to keep the festive spirit alive, and your kids will love the excitement of searching for the fève in their galette.
And here’s a little secret: If you thought that after the indulgence of the holiday season, the French would be going on a diet—think again! January is all about the Galette des Rois, and come February, it’s time for crêpes! The French really do love their food, and these seasonal treats are just another reason to embrace Parisian culture during your stay.
Where to Find the Best Galette des Rois in Paris
While nearly every boulangerie in Paris offers galettes throughout January, here are a few places where you can find some of the best ones in the city:
Pierre Hermé – Known for his luxurious pastries, Pierre Hermé's galettes are a work of art. Expect something truly indulgent and innovative here, with unique twists on the traditional frangipane.
La Pâtisserie des Rêves – If you’re after a galette that tastes as good as it looks, this bakery offers some of the most beautiful and delicious versions in town. They stick to classic flavors but with perfect execution.
Du Pain et des Idées – Located in the Canal Saint-Martin area, this traditional bakery is famous for its top-quality ingredients and its incredible attention to detail. Their galettes des rois are no exception.
Carette – If you’re in Montmartre, you can grab a coffee and a slice of galette at Carette, a renowned Parisian tearoom. A perfect spot for a sweet break after exploring the neighborhood’s cobblestone streets.
Of course, you don’t have to seek out these particular spots—any Parisian boulangerie is likely to have delicious galettes available throughout the month of January.
New Year Shopping: Enjoy the Winter Sales
If you love to shop, you’ve chosen the perfect time to visit Paris. January marks the start of the winter sales, or “les soldes”, where you’ll find discounts of up to 70% in stores all over the city. It’s a great opportunity to pick up some stylish Parisian fashion, unique souvenirs, or that special something you’ve had your eye on.
The Champs-Élysées is one of the most popular shopping destinations for tourists, with a mix of luxury brands, flagship stores, and high-street fashion. For a more local experience, head to the Marais district, where you’ll find boutique stores and quirky designer shops offering discounts on unique, one-of-a-kind items.
While shopping with kids can be a challenge, Paris has plenty of distractions to keep them entertained while you hunt for bargains. Many department stores, like Galeries Lafayette and Le Bon Marché, have special family-friendly spaces with activities for children. There are also plenty of cafés and sweet shops nearby where you can take a break and treat the kids to a hot chocolate or pastry after a morning of shopping.
Winter Fun in Paris: Ice Skating and Family Activities
Winter in Paris is magical, with twinkling lights still adorning the streets, and many festive activities continuing throughout January. Ice skating rinks pop up all over the city, offering a fun way for families to enjoy the winter atmosphere. You can find rinks in iconic locations like the Grand Palais, which transforms its grand hall into a stunning skating arena, or the Place de l’Hôtel de Ville, where you can skate surrounded by historic Parisian architecture.
Cozy Indoor Attractions for Cold Days
If you’re visiting Paris with kids in January, you’ll want to mix outdoor adventures with cozy indoor attractions, especially when the winter chill sets in. Here are a few family-friendly options:
Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie: Paris’ science museum is packed with interactive exhibits and activities for kids. It’s a great spot to keep the little ones engaged and warm on a cold January day.
Musée Grévin: The Paris wax museum, featuring life-like wax figures of famous people from history and pop culture, is always a hit with children.
Aquarium de Paris: Located near the Trocadéro, this aquarium is home to over 10,000 sea creatures, including sharks, jellyfish, and tropical fish. It’s an educational and relaxing way to spend a winter afternoon.
Enjoy Paris with Fewer Crowds
One of the biggest advantages of visiting Paris in January is the lack of crowds. With most tourists having returned home after the holidays, you’ll find the city’s attractions much quieter, allowing you to enjoy a more relaxed and intimate experience. Whether you’re visiting the Eiffel Tower, taking a boat cruise along the Seine, or exploring the Musée d’Orsay, you’ll have more space to soak in the sights and sounds of the city.
Conclusion: Kickstart the Year with Family Fun in Paris
Paris is always a good idea, but traveling with kids in January offers its own special charm. With fewer tourists, exciting winter traditions, and plenty of family-friendly activities, your New Year in Paris is sure to be unforgettable. Whether you’re indulging in a Galette des Rois, solving riddles on a treasure hunt along the Seine, or shopping for post-holiday bargains, Paris in January is the perfect destination for families looking for adventure, culture, and delicious treats.
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