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Solo winter fairly active travel in Paris and environs

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I will be traveling solo to Paris for 12 days in December. This will be my third trip to Paris, but the first time being there in winter. I plan to see the indoor sights that I still have not visited, as well as hang out at many cafes throughout the day to warm up and get refreshed. But I also enjoy activity, notably biking (moderate level--I'm strong but by no means a seasoned biker), and hiking.

Are there opportunities for such activity within Paris itself? I know there are canals, so perhaps there are good bike/hiking trails along these? Ideally, I'd love to find some towns outside of Paris that are particularly charming, scenic, with places to stop for a glass of wine or a coffee, possibly with a nice view. I'd be willing to ride the train for 1-2 hours each direction to reach such a place.

And what tips, besides getting off to an earlier start to maximize daylight and warmth, do you have for sightseeing in Paris in December? I am sure Christmas Markets will be in existence, along with department store displays and holiday lights along the major streets, but what else will be good to do/see/experience this time of the year?

Thanks in advance.

Posted by
1175 posts

We have been to Paris in December and are going again this year. We are planning to view Paris Christmas lights after dark from both the Montparnasse Tower and the Eiffel Tower a bit after sunset. Tickets for the ET for our dates (17-21/12) went on sale online Sept 20th. You might consider taking the metro line #1 to the end at Chateau de Vincennes, view the chateau, then enjoy a coffee or glass of wine at a bistro in Vincennes. You might also look at taking RER D to St. Denis, where the tombs of the French kings are located, also easily accessible using the Paris metro and RER systems. If we get sunshine on some days, even though it's a bit cold, we like to picnic in the park near the ET or along the river with crepes, sandwiches, or cheeses and crackers.... maybe even some wine. December in Paris is one of our favorite times to visit.

Posted by
1444 posts

You can head to Fontainebleau in the morning to visit the Chateau then head 5min. south to the town of Moret-sur-Loing, https://janettravels.wordpress.com/category/day-trips-from-paris/, before heading back to Paris. If you have the Navigo Decouverte Card that will cover the train & the bus from the station to the Chateau & the Museum Pass covers the entrance as well. I'll be there September next year and Christmas time in Paris is on my list for one of these years.
Enjoy your trip.

Posted by
1383 posts

One thing I really loved that is Vaux-le-Vicomte is magnificently decorated for Christmas. There's a bus trip from Paris Visions that I found absolutely horrendous (it left Paris during a high-traffic point in the day and we were only really given an hour to look at the chateau). Get there on your own and you'll be golden.

It's also worth checking out the Christmas windows at le Galleries Lafayette. It doesn't take up much time, but it would be good to take a nice stroll before or after dinner (I HIGHLY recommend le Grand Café Capucines) and then taking a stroll to Place Vendome. All are around the bustling Opera area.

I also experienced Bustronome for the first time last year. It was surprisingly delicous (they make the food on board) and it gives you a chance to see the Christmas lights at night. They also do lunch and afternoon tea tours. \

To me, once you've seen one French Christmas market you've seen them all. Vin chaud, barbe à papa, etc.

I did all of these solos and had an amazing time. Paris is a city where you don't feel alone, in my opinion.

Posted by
8293 posts

There are ice skating rinks in winter at Hotel de Ville and at the .Tour Eiffel, which might be fun.

Posted by
288 posts

We have been in late November. Cant start too early, it doesn't get light until 830 or so it seemed to me. But there is plenty to do after dark with the city lit up and markets in full swing. There may be more concerts and other cultural events going also. We did not feel it was that cold at night, but we are from Colorado where nights can be cold any time. We did the usual museums, Eiffel tower was great going up about 430 pm we got daylight, sunset and dark so you way want to book at that time. It is chilly up top but you can duck inside to warm up. We liked the Aligre street market also if its convenient for you.

Posted by
796 posts

Buy some vin chaud (hot mulled wine - YUM!) in the Luxembourg Gardens, Tuileries or Parc Monceau and just wander around the park. A walk along the Promenade Plantee would be nice too.

Enjoy!!

Edited to add: You could also rent a bike at Versailles and explore the grounds. Or take a Fat Tire Bike tour!

Posted by
1 posts

I just wanted to drop in and say that I am also coming solo to Paris for the 3rd time but this will be my first time in December (have been in April and October previously) and my name is Kimberly (Kim) as well!! My thanks to all as I am benefiting from your tips too!

Thanks!
Kim

Posted by
2466 posts

Might not be a skating rink at Hotel de Ville this year, so check the official website before you get your hopes up.
Not even sure about the one at Eiffel Tower, since they are doing a lot of construction.

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