Travel Tips for Paris

 Here's the most important travel news & tips for Paris this weekend (Jan 16-18,2026) to help you plan and avoid surprise. 

Paris Traveling Tips & Alerts This Weekend

Weather & Transportation Disruption Alerts 

Snow, ice & storm-related disruption- Paris and the Ile-de-France region have recently experienced heavy snow, ice, and strong winds (from Storm Goretti) that have disrupted trains, roads and flights. Authorities issued orange weather alerts including the Paris region. Snow and ice can still affect transportation and road conditions. 

Metro, RER & SNCF strike impacts-Public transport disruptions due to ongoing service actions continue into this week (Jan 12-18). Expect delays, reduced frequencies or changes on some RER, suburban trains and possibly metro lines-especially on busy commuter lines. 

Museums & Tickets Cost Updates

Louvre Museums closures & ticket hikes

• The Louvre was closed earlier this week due to a strike which could effect weekend operations if walkouts continue.
• Ticket prices have increased significantly for many non-EU visitors as of 2026- plan your budget accordingly. 

Event News

A major agricultural show in Paris will proceed without cattle this year due to disease concerns- important if your itinerary includes this event. 

Practical Travel Tips for This Weekend 

Before You Go

Check your transportation status

• Confirm your train & metro schedules before leaving (SNCF/RATP) apps or official Twitter). Strikes can cause last-minute changes. 
• If your flight arrives into CDG or Orly, verify arrival times- residual snow/ice delays still affect turnround times on some flights. 

Build extra time into transfers. 

Because of strikes and weather impacts, plan for much longer transfer times from train stations and airports to your hotel.

Transport Alternatives

• Taxi/rides-share- More reliable during disruptions days but can be slower in traffic.  
• Walk or bike-Great for short distances downtown if weather permits. 
• Local buses- May also be affected by weather or strike actions, so check ahead.

Weather-Aware Packing

Paris can be cold, snowy and icy in January. Bring:

• Warm, waterproof shoes
• Layers + insulated coat
• Gloves, hat, scarf

Budget & Entry Fees

Museum entry costs and cultural attractions can be significantly higher then before- especially at major sites like louvre. It's worth booking tickets online in advance.

Safety Tips

Pickpockets and petty scams can be common in busy tourist areas (metro stations, Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, etc.).

• Keep valuables secured and out of sight.
• Beware of distraction scams (e.g., fake rings or petitions).

Local Events & Experiences

Even with winter weather and possible disruptions, Paris still offers:

• Cafes, museums (book in advance)
• Winter markets or exhibitions
• Indoor attractions (opera, galleries, shows)

Quick Checklist Before Departure

✓Confirm flight & train schedules (and alternative routes) 

✓Download RAT/SNCF apps for real-time metro/train info

🗸Purchase museum & attraction tickets online

🗸Pack for cold/icy weather

🗸Set alerts for weather and transportation updates