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Heading to Paris in February and wondering what to wear? I’m here to help!
It’s always harder to pack a suitcase for a winter trip than it is for a summer trip. You need more layers and nobody likes to be cold.
February in Paris tends to be cold since we are still in winter (though it gets better at the end of the month) which means you will need some layers and appropriate shoes.
It’s also important to opt for some old time classics and neutral colours if you want to fit in with the French style.
Having said that, Paris is also one of the best places in the world to go shopping so don’t stress, you can always buy extra clothes there.
In this article, I tell you everything you need to know about the weather in Paris in February and what to wear.
What is the Weather Like in Paris in February?
February in Paris is cold, with average temperatures ranging from 3°C to 9°C (37°F to 48°F). It usually hovers around the 7°C mark and rarely goes above 14°C.
As a general rule, you should expect some cloudy days and rain since there are on average 13 days of rain in Paris in February.
On the plus side though, the days are longer than in December or February which means you get to enjoy more day lights.
Essential Packing List for Paris in February
You can find below my recommended packing list for Paris in February. Please remember that packing lists are personal and you need to adapt it to your own style.
The important thing to remember is that it will be cold (but not crazy cold with snow) and there are high chances of rain.
Knowing that, you need to pack some layers and a good coat.
Clothing
- Winter Coat: The French love a cosy wool coat so it’s my recommendation if you want to fit in. Puffer jackets are also a great option.
- Sweaters: Cozy knit sweaters or turtlenecks for layering. Neutral tones like black, gray, or camel work well with Parisian aesthetics. Turtlenecks are an all time favourite in France since they protect your neck and reduce the need for a thick scarf.
- Long-sleeved tops: These are ideal to wear under your sweater. They will keep you warm and if you are in a warm restaurant or museum and want to take a layer off, you can do so without being too cold afterwards.
- Bodysuit or tank tops: I recommend taking extra small layers to wear underneath your long-sleeve t-shirt if it gets quite cold. I particularly like bodysuits because they are tucked in and keep you extra warm but a simple tank top is also great.
- Trousers: Wool trousers and jeans are ideal for Paris in February. You can also opt for some wide trousers but if you do, I’d recommend wearing tights or leggings underneath.
- Dresses/Skirts: The French love winter dresses and skirts so that’s definitely something you should pack. You can wear them during the day or in the evening. Obviously, make sure to pack some opaque tights to go with them (preferably black as the French don’t like coloured tights too much).
- Pajamas
- Underwear
- Socks: While any socks will do, I do like wearing merino wool socks when I visit Paris in February because you walk a lot on the cold ground and your feet tend to get cold.
Shoes
- Ankle boots: Flat leather ankle boots are the best type of shoes you can wear in Paris in winter because they are both stylish and practical. You can walk with them for ages and they go with everything. I recommend taking Chelsea boots with thick soles so it protects your feet from the cobblestones and the cold.
- Sneakers: Comfortable and waterproof sneakers such as AirForce or Veja are also a great option. The French don’t wear sneakers as much as others but they are still a popular choice because they are so comfortable and remember, you will be walking a lot.
- Tall Boots: These are ideal if you plan on wearing dresses or skirts. They look so good and they protect you from the cold. Again, I’d recommend flat-ish ones since you’ll walk a lot.
Bags
- Crossbody bag or handbag to carry your belongings. Make sure you can close it with a zip since there are a lot of pickpockets in Paris.
- Money Belt: While not the most stylish item on that list, I still think wearing a money belt under your coat is practical because it will keep your money and passport safe.
- Tote bag: Can be useful if you go shopping but not essential.
Accessories
- Scarf: This is the ultimate French accessory. We simply love our scarves! Paris can be a bit windy so a scarf is very practical to protect your neck. You can opt for an oversized scarf, a smaller wool one or even a stylish neck gaiter.
- Gloves: Again, practical to keep you warm. Make sure to get touchscreen gloves since you will be using your phone a lot.
- Hats: A beret or beanie are perfect for both warmth and a Parisian look. If you want to opt for a wool beret, you should wait until you get to Paris to buy it though. They are everywhere, just don’t take the overly cheap ones from tourist shops as they are not great quality.
- Umbrella: As previously mentioned, it will rain so make sure to pack a small umbrella.
Electronics
- Universal adapter: French outlets use type C or E plugs so you can get an European adapter or an international one.
- Power bank: You will use your phone a lot for navigation and photos which drains the battery so it’s handy to have a power bank.
- Camera and smartphone
Paperwork
- Passport: Ensure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
- Travel insurance: Essential for any trip.
- Hotel reservations and tickets
- Bank cards and cash: Cards are widely accepted in Paris but it’s always handy to have some euros in cash.
Outfit Ideas for Paris in February Depending On The Weather
☀️ Sunny Days
- Black Wool coat
- Beige Winter knit dress with black tights
- Knee High Leather Boots
- A scarf and beanie or beret.
☁️ Cloudy Days
- Warm puffer jacket with a knit sweater and long sleeve top underneath.
- Wool trousers and waterproof sneakers.
- Accessories: Gloves and a cozy scarf.
🌧️ Rainy Days
- Wool Coat
- Knit turtleneck sweater with a long sleeve top underneath
- Jeans with Chelsea boots
- Accessories: Umbrella, scarf and beanie
Things Not to Wear in Paris in February
- Lightweight shoes: Avoid sneakers that aren’t waterproof or don’t provide warmth because your feet will be freezing.
- Shorts or light dresses: It’s simply way too cold. If you want to wear shorts, make sure they are made of thick fabric and to wear tights with them.
- Overly casual attire: Parisian style leans toward chic and polished; we don’t really walk around in sweatpants so while you don’t need to be overly formal, it’s important to not look too casual or outdoorsy.
I hope this packing list has been helpful and you feel ready to go to Paris now! February is a great time of the year if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy all the sights so despite the cold, you can be sure to have a good time!
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