The capital of France, Paris, also called the “City of Love and Light”, is not just a destination; it’s an indulgence in art, fashion, gastronomy, culture and architecture. Whether you are a couple seeking tender moments at the Eiffel Tower, an artist searching for inspiration at The Louvre, a shopaholic drawn to high-end fashion brands or a tourist wishing to create memories, Paris has something for everyone!
But what is the best time of the year to travel to Paris? That depends on factors such as the weather, seasonal activities and crowd levels. Our travel guide can help you decide.
Explore Paris in Spring (March to May)
In the midst of a chilly winter and bustling summer, springtime in Paris is a breath of fresh air where the city blooms under clear skies and sunshine. It is one of the best times to vacation in Paris as the city bursts with new life and lush greenery in gardens, cafe terraces and street markets. The city is calm in the season with minimal tourist rush!
A pop of cherry blossoms, gentle breezes, occasional rain showers, leisure strolls at the parks, and chocolate-infused Easter celebrations are the Parisian pleasures you can experience during spring.
Average Temperature
- March – 41 ℉ / 5 ℃to 54 ℉ / 12 ℃
- April – 45 ℉ / 7 ℃ to 61 ℉ / 16 ℃
- May – 52 ℉ / 11 ℃to 68 ℉ / 20 ℃
What to pack for Paris in Spring?
The weather during spring in Paris can be surprising. It is typically cold and probably snowy in late March. Around April and May, it is warm with some rain. Therefore, it is essential to plan and pack for your trip with a mixture of weather conditions in mind. You must carry trench coats, layers, scarves and even boots. Packing an umbrella and waterproof shoes is also good if it rains.
Things to do in Paris in Spring
- Go for a Picnic: One of the most exciting yet restful activities most locals and tourists do during spring is to plan a picnic at the beautiful parks in Paris. You only need your favorite French wine, fresh fruits, and a French baguette to head outdoors and bask in the sun for the picnic. Some famous picnic spots include Luxembourg Gardens, Champs de Mars and Park Monceau.
- Visit a Night Museum: Paris has some of the best museums in Europe. Although you can visit these museums during the day, Paris in the spring season allows you to visit them for free at night during the Night of the Museums Day, also known as La Nuit des Musees. The most popular museum to visit, among others, is the Louvre Museum.
- Attend Spring Festivities: There are many festivals and events which you should attend in spring. Some of them are the International Art Show, Paris Jazz Festival and Festival de Saint-Denis. If you are a chocolate lover, Jean-Paul Hévin, Foucher, and Pierre Hermé are where you can indulge in tasty Easter chocolates.
- Wander on Foot: The best way to explore Paris is by foot in springtime. You can walk around the areas of Montmartre, head to Versailles Palace, or enjoy watching the cherry blossoms at the Tuileries Gardens.
Explore the best of Paris with this 4-Day itinerary
Explore Paris in Summer (June to August)
Pavements bathed in sunlight, balmy evenings, fewer cars jamming up the roadways, and livelier streets – it’s official summertime, i.e. the busiest time to visit Paris.
When you visit Paris in the summer, you’ll be forgiven for noticing the lack of “French” or Parisian’s around and despite the crowds of tourists, the city may seem a little quiet, especially if you visit mid-week. Why? Around this season, almost all the locals plan their summer vacations abroad, and the capital opens its doors to international tourists instead. Thus, as summer is a popular tourist season, you can expect longer queues outside some major tourist spots and pay a higher price for most activities and events. You will also find it much harder to get tickets to must see sights such as the Eiffel Tower which sell out a couple of months in advance online.
But, hey, the good side is that the weather is pleasant. The tourists and the locals are all set to enjoy outdoor activities, attend summer events, evening concerts and enjoy a gourmet meal outside on a terrace or rooftop with a view over the city.
Average Temperature
- June – 55 ℉ / 13 ℃ to 75 ℉ / 24 ℃
- July – 58 ℉ / 14 ℃ to 77 ℉ / 25 ℃
- August – 60 ℉ / 16 ℃ to 79 ℉ / 26 ℃
What to pack for Paris in the Summer?
It is peak summer, so you only need a jacket if you feel cold at night. Otherwise, you can pack a mix of linen trousers, light layers, t-shirts and a pair of jeans or two for the evenings. Remember to carry your beachwear and sunglasses and if you’re planning to spend extended periods outside, a hat is often a good accessory to keep the sun off your head.
Things to do in Paris in the Summer
- Laze at the Beach: Paris-Plages is an event organized by the Paris City Hall every summer, where temporary artificial beaches are created along the River Seine. You can unwind under the palm trees, sun umbrellas and deckchairs or take part in sporting activities.
- Bastille Day: On July 14, the country celebrates National French Day. A military parade and bicycle race ends at the Arc de Triomphe, an iconic symbol of French national identity. At night, a stunning fireworks display, followed by a concert, is held at the foot of the Eiffel Tower.
- Open Air Cinema: The Cinema en Plein Air Festival is organized at the Parc de La Villette every summer. You can enjoy a good movie under the open night sky and stars. The entry is free, but you will have to rent a chair or blanket if you want.
- Cruise on the River Seine: The best way to explore Paris is by going on a cruise on the River Seine at night. The cruise takes you through the most celebrated monuments when the city is lit up and shining under a romantic ambience.
Further Read: 16 Most romantic destinations in Europe
Explore Paris in Autumn (September to November)
Autumn, a season when the city is doused in romance, is (like Spring) the very best season to go to Paris. During this period of the year, you can witness thinner crowds amidst falling golden and crimson foliage. The days are now shorter, with a sunny yet crisp chill. You can relax, explore the city, attend wine-tasting festivals or relish a cup of hot chocolate during autumn. What more could be better?
In September, the city wakes up from the summer slumber, and the businesses re-open. During this month, the Parisians claim their city back from the tourists. Summer will end by the end of October and early November, and the weather is enjoyable. It will be easier to find affordable flights and accommodations now.
Average Temperature
- September – 66 ℉ / 19 ℃ to 73 ℉ / 23 ℃
- October – 51 ℉ / 11 ℃ to 61 ℉ / 16 ℃
- November – 41 ℉ / 5 ℃ to 50 ℉ / 10 ℃
What to pack for Paris in Autumn?
The days are sunny in autumn, allowing for comfortable clothing with sneakers. However, carrying additional layers and scarves is advisable as the evenings grow colder. There can be sudden rain showers, so it is safe to pack an umbrella as well.
Things to do in Paris in Autumn
- Visit the Catacombs: The Catacombs is one of Paris’ spookiest spots where 6 million bodies were dug up from cemeteries and moved underground during the 1780s due to lack of space. The underground passages do not contain individual gravestones but statues and bones to give a scary feel.
- Welcome the Wine Harvest: The autumn months in France are known for celebrating and beginning grape harvesting. You can tour the Clos Montmartre vineyard, attend festivals, and enjoy food and wine tasting.
- Celebrate European Heritage Days: During the 3rd week of September, Paris celebrates European Heritage Days, wherein you get free access to museums and monuments around the city to learn about France’s rich history.
- Attend Nuit Blanche: The Nuit Blanche is an all-night arts festival celebrated across Paris. On this night, you will come across concerts and exhibitions at cultural institutions for visitors to attend free of cost. It offers an experience worth visiting.
Romance and History on the same trip, check the detailed 7 day trip of Paris and Rome
Explore Paris in Winter (December to February)
The city of lights turns into a spectacular paradise during winter. The architectural marvels, landmarks, and museums adorn themselves in twinkling lights and occasional snow, illuminating Paris and exuding a romantic ambience.
It is the holiday season for the locals, with quieter lines and fewer crowds. You will find the Parisians lounging indoors, mulling a hot wine and cheerfully preparing for the Christmas market and January sales. It is the best time to visit Paris on a budget and explore the enchanting side of the city without a touristy rush. If you’re a shopper, the January sales is a good time to visit if you’re looking to grab some Parisian style clothing at bargain prices.
Average Temperature
- December – 39 ℉ / 4 ℃ to 46 ℉ / 7 ℃
- January – 35 ℉ / 2 ℃ to 41 ℉ / 5 ℃
- February – 37 ℉ / 3 ℃) to 47 ℉ / 8 ℃
What to pack for Paris in Winter?
Warm clothes, underlayers, wool hats, long pants, winter coats, boots, gloves, shirts and scarves are what you must pack for the freezing winter in Paris. Carrying a raincoat, umbrella and rain boots is also recommended.
Things to do in Paris in Winter
- Visit Disneyland in Paris: Relive your childhood at the world’s renowned theme park. Click pictures with your favourite Disney characters, enjoy fun rides, attend stunning live shows and buy attractive Disney merchandise as a memory for life. Visit in the winter time for fewer crowds, seasonal decor and shorter waiting times for rides and attractions.
- Christmas Fairs: The Christmas fairs and markets light up Paris’ streets. As you stroll through the lanes, you will be immersed in the magical decor, locally crafted goods, delicious treats and hot beverages. La Magie de Noël at Tuileries Garden hosts the largest Christmas fair in Paris. The other markets are La Défense, Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Notre-Dame.
- January Sales: Paris’ winter sale starts in early January and goes on for weeks. This is an excellent opportunity to grab your favourite high-end couture at exciting deals and discounts from boutiques and department stores like Galeries Lafayette, Printemps, and Le Bon Marché.
- Ice Skating: You must experience the thrill and joy of ice skating if you’re in Paris in winter. There are various rinks around the city for both beginners and seasoned skaters. These are the Eiffel Tower ice rink, Le Grand Palais Des Glaces and Le Petit Palais.
FAQ’s about best time to visit Paris
When is the shoulder season in Paris?
The best time to visit Paris to avoid crowds is April to May and September to October. These months are most suitable for outdoor activities and visiting the must-see tourist spots.
When is the best time to visit Paris on a budget?
If you are on a budget, the cheapest time to visit Paris is during the off-season, i.e., in winter, specifically before and after the holiday season. The best months to visit Paris for a low budget would be December, January and February. Around this time, you will save on flights, accommodations, public transportation, and attraction fares.
When is the best time to visit Paris for couples?
For a perfect romantic and cosy honeymoon, couples should plan their visit to Paris in spring (March to May) or Autumn (September to mid-November). During these months, Paris is less crowded, allowing you to make the most of your trip by exploring the city and spending quality time with each other.
What month is the rainy season in Paris?
Rains in Paris are unpredictable as there isn’t a specific rainy season. However, most rains occur in December and January. Nonetheless, it is safe to carry an umbrella for your trip and Paris is one of the best cities to be in when it rains thanks to all the indoor museums!
Is March Too Cold for Paris?
No, the weather gets slightly warmer in March compared to the previous winter months. The average temperature in March can go up to 9 degrees C. The weather tends to be cold and partly sunny for you to indulge in activities outdoors. Warm layers are recommended so you can adapt to both cold and indoor temperatures as you go in and out of museums.
What is the cheapest time to go to Paris?
The cheapest time to visit Paris is during the low season, i.e., winter. The ideal months are early December, January and February.
What time of the year does Paris have the best weather?
To take advantage of the best weather in Paris, you must visit during springtime (March to May) or autumn (September to November). The weather is pleasant during these months, and you can avoid summer and winter’s extreme heat and cold.
So, what’s the inside scoop on the best time to visit Paris? Paris is always a good idea, regardless of the month or season you visit. The city sprinkles a charm throughout the year, making you fall in love with the capital more. Every season offers a unique appeal and spoils you with choices and things to do that you cannot miss, but our Travel experts agree, the best time to go to Paris is the shoulder seasons, with lower costs, fewer crowds and more importantly, a better chance at getting tickets to all the monuments and sights you want to visit without the long waiting times or possibility of sold our tickets.
Connect with our travel experts at Go Real Travel to plan a customized trip to Paris.