Ella Fitzgerald is only one of the many singers who expressed their love for ’The City of Lights’ in the song, ’I Love Paris.’ According to the lyrics, Paris is perfection no matter what season it may be. "I love Paris in the winter when it drizzles, I love Paris in the summer when it sizzles." You know the drill.
But there is truth to the song. Indeed, Paris is a city to love, whether you’re picnicking in the sun on the Champ de Mars, or caught in the pouring rain in Montmartre.
And what better month to visit the city of lovers than in February? Yes, the French do celebrate their own version of Valentine’s Day and there are plenty of things for lovers to do in Paris throughout the entire month. February is a time to be in Paris, whether you’re traveling with you’re admirer or flying solo.
The weather is sometimes unpredictable... rainy, chilly, or sunny, but you can always feel spring just around the corner.
Let’s start off with a long stroll through the Luxembourg Gardens. It’s an enchanting journey, walking past the classic statues, plush gardens, fountains, and the 16th Century Luxembourg Palace. Find yourself a crepe stand and take your snack (preferably a crepe sucre) to the boat pond in front of the Palace. Choose from one of the many chairs and take a seat. On a sunny day the view will keep you sitting for hours as you watch people go by and enjoy the ambience of the Jardin du Luxembourg.
When you’re hungry for something scrumptious, pick yourself up and head on over to Le Marais. This may be the funkiest district in Paris and the best falafel community in the world. Yes, in the world. Once you’ve made your way into Le Marais turn off of Rue Vieille du Temple, onto Rue des Rosiers. You can choose from the competing falafel stands but we recommend, L’As du Fallafel. Take a ticket number from the guy outside and pay less than 5 Euros for the most delicious pocket falafel.
If your scarf isn’t keeping you warm enough outside, then you can take a seat inside and order.
Stick around Le Marais for some vintage spectacular shopping! You can spend hours at Free *P* Star, a vintage store where you can dig for clothing treasures. There are three locations within 2 minutes of each other.
After you rest from your filling lunch and shopping spree, dress yourself up in your best and spend a Friday night at the Louvre. This is maybe the best time to explore the Louvre and meet your favorite masterpieces because the day crowds have shuffled out. It’s a magical experience when you show up around 8PM. Some of the galleries are almost empty and the paintings and sculptures come to life in front of your eyes. It’s romantic if you’re with a special someone and even more romantic when you’re tout seul.
To experience some true underground Parisian nightlife, one must sway to the jazz at Caveau des Oubliettes off of Rue Galande. Every night there is a different theme: swing or blues, you name it. Some of the best jazz artists have passed through this jazz dungeon. It’s cozy and crowded in the downstairs venue where musicians take turns showing the audience how well they can groove with their instruments. The environment is friendly and the drinks keep you dancing to the music. A perfect end to a Parisian day in February. The tunes heat you right up.
You are sure to fall in love with Paris in February, or any month that is. Strolling, Shopping, Eating, Art Going, Jazz Swaying... what more can you ask for?
Fall in love with Paris in February.
