Guide to Ice Skating in Paris: 16 Best Tips to Know
Winter in Paris is nothing short of magical. The City of Light takes on a whole new glow.
When planning your perfect winter Parisian vacation, leave room for ice skating in Paris.
It’s the perfect winter activity to soak up all the holiday vibes. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer, skating in this city is an experience you won’t want to miss.
In this blog post, I’m exposing the best spots for ice skating rinks in Paris, from the iconic locations that offer jaw-dropping views of the Eiffel Tower to hidden ice rinks where locals love to hang out.
And because we all know that the devil is in the details, I’ll also share some handy tips to make your European ice skating excursion go smoothly.
So grab a cup of hot cocoa, put on your coziest socks, and let’s get into it.
Marché de Noël Jardin des Tuileries
- Location: Situated in the 1st arrondissement, the Jardin des Tuileries is a stone’s throw away from the iconic Louvre Museum.
- Approximate Dates: The winter festivities, including the ice rink, usually kick off in November and last until January.
- Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor
- Highlights: Ice skating, Christmas market, Ferris wheel, hot chocolate, and mulled wine
- Getting There
- Metro: Take Line 1 and get off at Tuileries Station.
- Bus: Lines: 21, 24, 27, 68, 69, 72, 73, 81, 95 all have stops nearby.
The Experience
The Jardin des Tuileries is a must-visit at any time of the year, but during winter, it transforms into something straight out of a fairy tale.
The above-ground rink is outside so you will be skating under the Paris winter sky.
Must Know
The associated Christmas market is a “must-visit” during the holiday season. Wooden chalets line the pathways, each offering something unique. From handcrafted ornaments to artisanal French pastries, there’s something for everyone.
Don’t forget to order the hot chocolate! Sipping a cup of rich, creamy hot chocolate while watching your kids skate is magical.
The Jardin des Tuileries also has its very own Ferris wheel during winter.
It’s a fantastic way to get a bird’s-eye view of the entire winter wonderland. Imagine seeing the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Seine River lit up in winter glory. It’s a sight you won’t want to miss!
Family Tips:
- Budget-Friendly: The prices for skating and other activities are reasonable, making it an excellent option for families.
- Bundle Up: It’s an outdoor rink, and Parisian winters can be pretty chilly. Ensure everyone dresses warmly—think layers, scarves, and gloves.
- Food and Drink: Remember the hot chocolate and mulled wine.
Nearby Attractions
Galeries Lafayette Rooftop Ice Skating: Your Elevated Winter Experience Guide
- Location: Boulevard Haussmann, in the shopping district
- Dates: December to February
- Type: Outdoor rink on the rooftop!
- Highlights: Free skating, panoramic city views, Eiffel Tower in the distance
- Getting There
- Metro: Lines 7 and 9, get off at Chaussée d’Antin – La Fayette Station.
- Bus: Lines 20, 21, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29, 32, 43, 66, 68, 91, 94, 95 all have stops nearby.
The Experience
Imagine gliding on ice, high above the streets of Paris, with the Eiffel Tower shimmering in the distance.
That’s precisely what you get at Galeries Lafayette. You also get a killer view of the Opera Garnier and other iconic spots. It’s like Paris is putting on a show just for you.
Must-Know
- Free Paris Skating: Yep, you can skate for free! Perfect if you’re watching your budget
- Time Limit: Each skating session has a 20-minute time limit to accommodate as many people as possible.
Family Tips
- Kid-Friendly: The rink’s small, so it’s perfect for little ones or if you’re a bit wobbly on skates.
- Shopping & Dining: Explore the Galeries for holiday shopping or enjoy a meal at one of its many restaurants after your skating session.
- Eiffel Tower Alert: Don’t forget to snap a pic of the Eiffel Tower in the background. It’s the cherry on top of an already incredible experience.
- Check back in November 2023 to see if the ice rink will open this year.
Nearby Attractions
Espace Sportif Pailleron: Your Year-Round Ice Skating Guide
- Location: 19th arrondissement
- Dates: Open year-round
- Type: Indoor ice skating rink in Paris
- Highlights: Skating lessons are less crowded
- Getting There
- Metro: The closest station is Bolivar on Line 7bis.
- Bus: Lines 26 and 48 have nearby stops.
The Experience
Espace Sportif Pailleron is where the locals go to get their skate on.
It’s open all year, and it’s indoors so that you can forget about weather woes.
Espace Sportif Pailleron is Ideal for families and individuals looking to improve their skills, The venue provides skate school and equipment rentals.
Must-Know
- Skating Lessons: Whether you’re a newbie or looking to up your game, they offer lessons for all ages. Suppose you are not French-speaking; Call ahead to see if they offer classes in English.
- Equipment Rental: Skates and gear can be rented on-site.
Family Tips
- Skill Building: Consider enrolling in a lesson for skill development.
- Less Crowded: This isn’t a tourist trap, so you’ll have plenty of room to practice skating.
- Sport Focus: The venue emphasizes the sport of ice skating.
Nearby Attractions
Plaza Athenee Ice Skating: Your Guide to Luxury on Ice
- Location: Avenue Montaigne, near the Seine
- Dates: December to February
- Type: Outdoor rink located in the hotel’s courtyard
- Highlights: Luxury experience, exclusive setting, age-restricted (3-12 years), table service
- Price: 200 Euros for table service (as of 2022)
- Getting There
- Metro: Alma-Marceau or Franklin D. Roosevelt stations are the closest.
- Bus: Lines 42, 63, 80, and 92 have nearby stops.
The Experience
This outdoor skating rink in the Plaza Athenee Hotel courtyard offers a sense of privacy and elegance.
It’s a smaller rink in the courtyard of the elegant hotel, making it feel exclusive and intimate. The setting is festive, surrounded by the hotel’s stunning architecture and holiday decorations.
Must-Know
- Table Service: For an extra touch of luxury, you purchase a table with hot chocolate, fondue, champagne, hot beverages, and a dessert. The price for this service was 200 Euros as of 2022.
- Age Limit: The rink is designed for children between the ages of 3 and 12.
Family Tips
- Luxury Experience: It’s pricier than your average rink, but the experience is next-level amazing.
- Kid-Friendly: Despite its fancy setting, the rink is designed for children between the ages of 3 and 12, making it a family-friendly option.
Nearby Attractions
Montparnasse Tower Ice Skating: A Sky-High Experience
- Location: 15th arrondissement
- Dates: Per their website, reopening in February 2024
- Type: Outdoor rink on the rooftop terrace
- Highlights: Highest skating rink in France, views of the Eiffel Tower and Sacré-Cœur
- Getting There
- Metro: The nearest station is Montparnasse-Bienvenüe, connected to Lines 4, 6, 12, and 13.
- Bus: Lines 28, 58, 82, 88, 89, 91, 92, 94, 95, and 96 have nearby stops.
The Experience
Imagine gliding on ice while practically touching the sky on top of the Montparnasse Tower.
As the highest skating rink in France, it provides insane views of iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Sacré-Cœur and basically the whole Paris skyline.
Must-Know
- Elevation: This is France’s highest ice skating rink, offering a unique experience.
- Reopening: The rink was closed in 2023 but is set to reopen in February 2024.
Family Tips
- Safety Measures: The venue prioritizes safety; however, checking any age restrictions in advance is advisable.
- Photo Ops: This is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of place, so make sure your phone’s charged for tons of photos.
Nearby Attractions
Tips for ice Skating in Paris.
1. Check Seasonal Availability: Many rinks are seasonal, so check the opening dates before planning your trip.
2. Early Bird Advantage: Popular rinks can get crowded. Arrive early to beat the rush, especially at touristy spots like the Jardin des Tuileries.
3. Dress in Layers: Parisian winters can be chilly. Dress in layers so you can adjust your comfort level as you skate.
4. Check Age Restrictions: Some rinks, like Plaza Athenee, have age restrictions. Make sure the rink is suitable for your family.
5. Safety First: Always wear protective gear, especially if you’re a beginner or skating with kids. Most rinks will require you to wear gloves for safety, so make sure you pack those.
6. Rent or Bring Skates: Most rinks offer skate rentals, but you can bring your own.
7. Know the Rules: Each rink has its own rules and guidelines. Please familiarize yourself with them to ensure a smooth experience.
8. Capture the Moment: Remember your camera or smartphone. The views from rinks like Montparnasse Tower are photo-worthy.
9. Check the Weather: Check the weather forecast for outdoor rinks and plan accordingly.
10. Time Limits: Some rinks, like those at Galeries Lafayette, have time limits. Plan your visit to make the most of your allotted time.
11. Footwear: Wear comfortable socks and consider bringing an extra pair. Your feet will thank you.
12. Stay Hydrated: Skating is a physical activity. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
13. Snacks: Some rinks don’t have food options. Pack some light snacks if you plan to spend a few hours skating.
14. Public Transport: Most rinks are accessible by Metro or bus. Check the best routes in advance.
15. Nearby Attractions: Combine your skating trip with other nearby attractions to make a day of it. Consider taking a guided tour of the local museums and ending the day with a skate.
16. Have Fun: Most importantly, remember to have fun and enjoy this unique winter activity in the City of Light!
What about the Grand Palais skating rink?
The Grand Palais was the largest indoor skating rink at 2,300 square meters. Located under a glass roof, the rink featured night skating with a DJ and light shows.
Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing renovation, the skating rink has not been open since then. There is no official announcement about when it will reopen, but it is expected to resume after 2024 when the Grand Palais will host some events for the Olympic Games.
Final Thoughts on Ice Skating in Paris
We’ve explored the crème de la crème of ice skating spots in Paris, from the sky-high rinks with panoramic views to the cozy, intimate settings perfect for families.
Whether you’re looking to splurge on a luxury experience or want a chill day out (pun intended), Paris has something for every kind of skater.
I hope you found these tips and recommendations helpful for planning your own winter wonderland adventure in the City of Light.
Before you go, mark your calendars: Check back in November 2023 for updated ice rink schedules and hours. Because let’s face it, the only thing better than a Parisian winter is a well-planned Parisian winter.
