Paris in March often comes with drizzly days, but that only adds to the city’s charm. Instead of letting the rain slow you down, embrace the cozy side of Paris by slipping into a warm café or browsing a charming bookshop. Here’s where to spend a rainy day in the City of Light.

Cozy Cafés to Escape the Rain

1. Café de Flore (Saint-Germain-des-Prés)

A Parisian institution, Café de Flore has been a literary and artistic hub for decades. The plush red booths, warm lighting, and historic atmosphere make it the perfect place to sip on a hot chocolat chaud while people-watching through rain-streaked windows.

2. La Maison de la Poutine (Le Marais)

A Parisian institution, Café de Flore has been a literary and artistic hub for decades. The plush red booths, warm lighting, and historic atmosphere make it the perfect place to sip on a hot chocolat chaud while people-watching through rain-streaked windows. For something a little heartier, head to La Maison de la Poutine in the Marais. This Canadian-style comfort food spot serves up warm, cheesy poutine—ideal for gloomy weather. The cozy interior and friendly atmosphere make it a great hideaway from the drizzle.

3. Le Consulat (Montmartre)

Tucked in the heart of Montmartre, Le Consulat is a picturesque café that feels like stepping back in time. The snug interior, old wooden tables, and rich espresso make it a dreamy retreat while you watch the rain fall over the cobbled streets of this historic neighborhood.

4. Shakespeare and Company Café (Latin Quarter)

Hidden Bookshops for a Literary Escape

1. Shakespeare and Company (Latin Quarter)

A legendary English-language bookshop, Shakespeare and Company is a must-visit on any rainy day in Paris. Wander through the maze of bookshelves, curl up in a reading nook, and soak in the history of this beloved literary haven.

2. Librairie Jousseaume (Galerie Vivienne)

Tucked inside the elegant Galerie Vivienne, Librairie Jousseaume is a historic bookstore filled with rare and secondhand books. The warm glow of vintage lamps and the scent of old paper make it a magical spot to lose yourself in literature while waiting for the rain to pass.

3. Abbey Bookshop (Latin Quarter)

For lovers of English-language books, Abbey Bookshop is a hidden gem. Shelves overflow with classic and contemporary reads, and the friendly owner is always happy to offer recommendations. The narrow aisles and packed bookshelves create a snug, inviting atmosphere perfect for a drizzly afternoon.

4. Librairie Galignani (Rue de Rivoli)

One of Paris’s oldest bookstores, Librairie Galignani offers a curated selection of English and French books. With elegant wooden shelves and cozy reading corners, it’s the ideal place to discover a new novel and escape the rain.

Embracing the Rainy Day Mood

March showers are the perfect excuse to slow down and enjoy Paris at a different pace. Whether you're sipping a warm drink in a historic café or browsing bookshelves in a tucked-away shop, rainy days in Paris can be just as magical as sunny ones. So grab an umbrella, step into a cozy hideaway, and let the city’s timeless charm surround you.