What to do in Paris when it rains: 10 motivating ideas to turn grey weather into an adventure!

Our selection: 10 must-do experiences when it rains in Paris

Rain is just an excuse. It is the opportunity to explore the inside of the capital. Here are our 10 favorite outings for captivating experiences.

1. Dive into art: a visit to the Musée d’Orsay

The Musée d’Orsay is a must-see place. Admire masterpieces by the Impressionists. It is ideal for a calm and artistic visit.

• What to do: Focus on the fifth floor for the creations of Monet and Van Gogh. Enjoy the giant clock for a photo.
• Access: RER C (Musée d’Orsay station) or Metro line 12 (Solférino station). Consider Vélib’ if the rain stops.

→ Check exhibitions and ticketing on grandpalais.fr.

2. Immersive adventure: try a thrilling escape game

Forget the weather with an Escape Game! These immersive games require thinking and team spirit. Most scenarios last one hour.

• What to do: Choose a historical theme (around the French Revolution) or a fantasy one for a total experience.
• Access: Escape Games are often near major metro stations (e.g. lines 3, 4, 11) or in the 1st arrondissement.

3. The digital spectacle: discover the Atelier des Lumières

This is not a classic museum. It is a unique immersive experience. Art is projected from floor to ceiling.

• What to do: Let yourself be wrapped in music and images. The animations change every year.
• Access: Metro line 9 (Saint-Ambroise station) or line 3 (Père Lachaise station).

→ Book your experience in advance here: atelier-lumieres.com.

4. Dry strolling: the magnificent covered passages

Covered passages are a treasure of Paris. These 19th-century galleries offer you a historical visit while staying dry.

• What to do: Passage Jouffroy for its old shops. Galerie Vivienne for its elegant mosaics.
• Access: The passages are often close to metro lines 8 or 9 (Grands Boulevards stations).

5. The cinematic experience: Le Grand Rex

Go to the cinema in a legendary place. Le Grand Rex is an artistic visit in itself. The main hall is impressive.

• What to do: Watch a film in the main hall or visit the “Étoiles du Rex” tour for a backstage experience.
• Access: Metro lines 8 or 9 (Bonne Nouvelle station).

6. Scientific discovery: the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie

This large space is ideal for a family with children. It is a place for games and scientific experiences.

• What to do: Explore the Cité des Enfants (by reservation). Visit exhibitions about space or the living world.
• Access: Metro line 7 or Tram T3b (Porte de la Villette station).

→ Check exhibitions and activities here: cite-sciences.fr.

💡 Tip: If you want to extend your activities in this area of Île-de-France, Ecla Paris welcomes you in its Villejuif residence during your stay.

7. Sport with friends: an indoor bouldering gym

Challenge yourself physically. Indoor climbing is playful and sporty. It is an excellent way to forget the weather.

• What to do: Bouldering (climbing without ropes, on low walls) is perfect for beginners. It is a strategy game.
• Access: Many gyms are near RER B stations or in well-connected outer districts.

💡 Tip: If you want to stay longer to explore this area of Île-de-France, Ecla welcomes you in its Massy-Palaiseau residence and offers you a complete accommodation solution.

8. The underwater world: the Paris Aquarium

The Paris Aquarium is an immersive visit under the Trocadéro. A captivating dry experience for the family. Enjoy this calm moment far from the rain and the noise of the capital.

• What to do: Observe the large shark tank and the jellyfish. Educational activities are organized.
• Access: Metro lines 6 or 9 (Trocadéro station).

9. Contemporary art exhibitions: the Centre Pompidou

For a touch of modern creation, go to the Centre Pompidou. It is a dynamic museum and a large space. New temporary exhibitions arrive every year.

• What to do: Visit the National Museum of Modern Art. Enjoy the large library to read.
• Access: Metro line 11 (Rambuteau station) or line 4 (Les Halles station).

10. Creative moment: a DIY workshop

Take part in a manual workshop. It is an original outing to do something concrete. It is a relaxing creative experience. Ideal for a calm outing as a couple or with friends.

• What to do: Pottery workshops, painting, or even French cooking. You leave with your creation.
• Access: Many workshops are located in the 1st arrondissement or the Marais (metro line 1). If you want to extend your activities in this area, the Ecla residence in Noisy-le-Grand welcomes you during your stay.

Things to do in Paris when it rains as a couple: preserved intimacy

Rain amplifies the charm of Paris. Take advantage of this weather for special moments. The city becomes more intimate.

• Art-house cinema: Find a small neighborhood cinema. Sharing a rare film is a unique experience.
• Romantic visit: Explore Île Saint-Louis or Île de la Cité. This is the historic heart of Paris.
• Tasting: Enjoy a French wine or cheese tasting. It is a warm outing to heat up in the rain.
• Museum: Visit the Rodin Museum (7th arrondissement). Fewer people, more calm. A beautiful artistic discovery.

💡 Tip: In the evening, rain on Parisian cobblestones creates an incredible atmosphere. After a great visit, choose a candlelit dinner in a restaurant.

What to do in Paris when it rains with family: plenty of activities for children

When you have children, rain should not be an obstacle. Paris offers playful experiences. These outings are a discovery for the whole family:

• Musée en Herbe: This museum is made for children. Exhibitions are playful and artistic. It is the first step toward art.
• Board game cafés: Board game cafés are perfect. You play games as a family while having a warm snack. It is a friendly outing.
• Shopping center: Forum des Halles offers covered activities. It is a large space easily accessible by metro.
• Secret passages: Organize a treasure hunt in the covered passages. It is a fun way to enjoy a historical visit.

Small budget: where to eat cheap in Paris?

Rain makes you hungry. You can eat well without breaking the bank in Paris. Look for historic places for a French culinary experience.

• Bouillons: Historic addresses (such as Chartier or Julien). Main dishes cost between €9 and €15. You will find traditional French cuisine: soups, stewed meats, regional dishes. An economic outing.
• Crêperies: Go to student districts (Montparnasse, 5th arrondissement). Expect between €6 and €12 for a savory galette or a sweet crêpe. A perfect warm meal with friends or as a couple.
• Pizzerias/kebab shops: In most districts, you will find quick and generous options. Prices range from €7 to €13. Perfect for a quick outing when the weather is very bad.

💡 Tip: Check the weather before going out on meteofrance.com. This helps you plan your trips between metro stations.