Of France and snow storms

Even though France experiences snow falls every year, the country is quite unprepared for this event. If you happen to be in France during a snowstorm here are the things you need to know:

Airports

Airports are ill equipped to face snow. If you are travelling to or from Paris during a snow event, check twice if your flight has been delayed or even cancelled. If flights from overseas are usually maintained, some short and medium courier flights may be cancelled in prevision of the storm. 


Getting to and from airports will also be more difficult so you should plan your trip ahead. My advice would be to use the RER instead of taxis even though the service may run slower than usual.

Roads

The great majority of cars is not equipped with winter tires so circulation becomes difficult on the onset of the snow fall. In Paris and elsewhere, the cities are not equipped for snow removal. It may take some time before salt is spread in the cities and on the secondary roads system. As for highways, they are usually efficient at salting them early on, but if too much snow accumulates there might be closures. If that happens, they usually provide shelter for the people they call "les naufragés de la route" (road castaways).

If you happen to be renting a car, it's is unlikely that it is equipped with winter tires so be extremely careful when driving. If you are to drive in the Alps, buy tire chains to be on the safe side. However, these chains are forbidden on highways.

Trains

Trains are always affected by snowfall (not that they need snow to be late). If you happen to take the train when it snows, make sure to take a peek at the SNCF website to see whether your train has been delayed. Pack warm clothes and a meal just in case.

Public Transportation

Buses will stop running on the onset of the storm 90% of the time. In Paris, aerial lines of the metro and the RER may run slower than usual. If you are to run around town on a snow day, make sure to take a look at the RATP website before you leave.

Attractions

Many gardens and cemeteries will be closed as soon as the storm is announced. The Eiffel tower and other attractions that include an outside portion may be partially or totally closed. Montmartre may be difficult to access as the funicular and the stairs leading to the Sacré-Coeur are often closed. Call ahead to make sure you won't be disappointed.

Still snow storms are a special moment in Paris when people seem a bit more relaxed and more prone to speak to each other. More importantly, enjoy it as it won't last !