In my humble opinion, this is perhaps the greatest idea that Bertrand Delanoe (Mayor of Paris) ever had: opening up the huge parvis in front of the Hotel de Ville as a public ice rink. It makes those cold and grey days of winter fly by, and adds a bit of festivity to the Christmas season as well.

From the first weekend of December through the first weekend of March, Parisians and visitors alike can fall on their rumps in the most fashionable of settings. There are two rinks and even a small luge for the children.

place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville 75004 PARIS
Métro : Hôtel de Ville
RER : Châtelet Les Halles

Hours:
Monday - Thursday 12:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Friday : 12:00 p.m. - midnight
Saturday: 9:00 a.m. - midnight
Sunday : 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Price: skate rental is 5 euros (with ID), free access to rink

YOU MUST WEAR GLOVES!