The Best Time to Visit Paris

When is the best time to visit Paris?

In the Jewish Quarter, Chapter Roma hotel can be found.

I`ve visited Paris during nearly every month across the year. Though each season offers unique pleasures and hardships, I think the finest times to travel are in spring and fall, specifically from April to June and September to October. If I had to choose an absolute favorite month, it would be May.

During these periods, the climate is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 24°C. I find the springtime surroundings in Paris to be quite charming, with flowers blooming in the parks and gardens. The fall season in Paris offers lovely autumnal hues and a cozy vibe.

Visiting Paris during these months also allows you to avoid the peak tourist season, which occurs during the summer months (July and August). The summer can be quite crowded and warm, with temperatures reaching up to 85°F (29°C) or higher. However, the city is lively during the summer, with many events and festivals taking place.

The off-peak season, which runs from November to March, provides fewer crowds, shorter waits at popular attractions. (I enjoy being able to spontaneously visit the Louvre for a quick look without worrying about wasting half the time in a line), and lower prices for accommodations. However, the weather during this period can be colder and wetter, with temperatures ranging from 35°F (2°C) to 50°F (10°C). For those unbothered by cooler conditions and occasional rain or snow, the off-peak season can be an excellent time to explore the city free from large tourist crowds.

Weather: The most comfortable weather in Paris generally happens from April through June and September through October. During these months, temperatures are mild, ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 75°F (24°C), and rainfall is moderate. This is an excellent time to appreciate outdoor sightseeing, parks, and sidewalk bistros.

Purchasing: Paris hosts two major sales periods called `Les Soldes` each year, regulated by the government. The winter sale runs from early January to mid-February, while the summer sale is from late June to early August. During these times, you can find substantial discounts at many shops and boutiques.

Honeymoon: If planning a romantic honeymoon, considering visiting Paris during the milder spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) months could be good. The weather is pleasant and the city’s gardens and parks are in full bloom or showcasing beautiful autumn colors during these times. The city sees fewer visitors compared to the peak summer months, allowing for more intimate strolls and dining experiences together.

Reducing Crowds: To experience fewer crowds, visit Paris in the off-peak season, usually November through March. During this period, less tourists are expected, attractions have shorter lines, and lodging rates are lower. However, weather may be colder and wetter, with temperatures ranging from 35°F to 50°F, and occasional snow or rain could arise.

Museums: The most suitable time to visit the collections in Paris is during the off-peak season, from November through March, when visitor numbers are lower and wait times are shorter at popular exhibits. Weekdays, particularly Tuesday to Thursday, tend to be less busy than weekends. Considering visiting museums in the transitional seasons of spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) allows for pleasant weather conditions alongside smaller crowds than in summer.

Versailles: The optimal time to go to Versailles is in the period between high season and low season of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is agreeable and the gardens are at their most gorgeous. To keep away from substantial crowds, take into account visiting on weekdays rather than weekends, particularly throughout the low season (November to March). Summer months (July and August) offer additional activities and events but can be crowded and hot.

Disneyland: The ideal time to go to Disneyland Paris is during the slower season, from mid-January to mid-March, mid-April to mid-June, and September to early December, when crowds are smaller and lines are shorter. Visiting late spring or early autumn offers pleasant weather conditions, with temperatures generally ranging from 10°C to 24°C. Unique experiences come from special events like Halloween and Christmas celebrations, but expect larger crowds during these periods.

Paris Weather by Month

Paris Temperature by Month (high in Celsius)

Paris Rain by Month (mm)

• Paris Weather in January: January is the coldest month in Paris, with daytime high temperatures generally in the single digits. Clouds and rain are likely (though snow is rare), so a warm coat and waterproof shoes are essential. Days are short, with sunset around 5pm. (Average Max Temperature: 7°C. Average Precipitation: 18mm.)
• Paris Weather in February: Throughout February, temperatures remain low and rainfall occurs periodically. On dry days, protective headgear and gloves are recommended for outdoor tourism, though cultural sites indoors such as museums, galleries, and cafes provide warm shelter. (Average Maximum Temperature: 8°C. Average Precipitation: 22mm.)
• Paris Weather in March: There’s a gradual warming of the atmosphere this month, but days are still more likely to be chilly than warm, and as always there’s the possibility of an occasional downpour. The first bulbs of spring are up and blooming by month’s end, and days are lengthening – expect the sun to set between 6:30 and 7pm. (Average Max Temperature: 12°C. Average Precipitation: 24mm.)
• Paris Weather in April: Springtime in Paris can be somewhat of a mixed bag, weather-wise – you’re equally likely to wake up to a cool and rainy day as a sunny and warm one. Still, the average temperature is climbing to the mid-teens Celsius, days are becoming longer, and trees and springtime flowers are in full bloom. (Average Max Temperature: 16°C. Average Precipitation: 25mm.)
• Paris Weather in May: May in Paris by and large bright and gentle, with daytime high temperatures normal at 20°C. Around one-third of this month’s days will see downpour, and mornings and evenings can be chilly, so bundling layers and an umbrella is as yet a smart thought. (Average Max Temperature: 20°C. Average Precipitation: 26mm.)
• June Conditions in Paris: As summer approaches in Paris, daytime temperatures generally range from the lower to middle 20s Celsius, constituting a warming trend. While days are often sunny and warm, mornings, evenings, and overcast periods may still feel somewhat cool, so lightweight layers are advisable. Summer also brings extended daylight, with sunset over Paris near 10pm this month. (Average Maximum Temperature: 23°C. Average Precipitation: 24mm.)
• For Paris Weather in July: July is generally very warm and sunny, with daytime high temperatures typically in the mid-to-upper 20s. Overcast days can feel noticeably cooler, however. Light layers are still advised. At times, high humidity can make the warm temperatures feel quite uncomfortable – heat-sensitive travelers will want to ensure that their lodging has air conditioning. (Average Max Temperature: 25°C. Average Precipitation: 22mm.)
• Paris Climate in August: August continues hot and bright, with highs in the mid to upper 20s and significant humidity at times. Precipitation tends to be infrequent, and comes and departs in short bursts. As the heat bakes the city, locals head for the cooler shoreline. (Average Max Temperature: 25°C. Average Precipitation: 21mm.)
• September Climate in Paris: Many visitors see September as the ideal month for a trip to Paris. Rain is uncommon, and temperatures are generally warm however not too hot with a slow cooling throughout the month. Leaves stay green on the trees, and various blossoms can still be seen across the city. Days shorten, with sunset around 8pm. (Average Maximum Temperature: 21°C. Average Precipitation: 16mm.)
• October Climate Conditions in Paris: As autumn arrives in Paris, noteworthy cooling occurs. The weather in early October tends to be mild and sunny but transitions into overcast and wet days as the month progresses. Late October generally involves cloudy and cool conditions. While most flowers are past their peak during this time, fallen foliage displays spectacular autumnal colors towards the conclusion of this month. (Average Maximum Temperature: 16°C. Average Precipitation: 25mm.)
• November Weather in Paris: Temperatures continue declining throughout November, with average highs in the low double-digits Celsius, and drizzly precipitation becoming more frequent. Expect and plan for cool, damp, and blustery conditions, though pleasant periods of sunshine may surprise on occasion. (Average Maximum Temperature: 11°C. Average Rainfall: 22mm.)
• December Climate in Paris: December is the wettest month in Paris, though rainfall usually takes the form of drizzle more than downpours. Temperatures are also cooler, with highs typically within the 5-10°C range. The sun descends around 5pm, and the brief days provide ample opportunity to experience the City of Lights at its most seasonally festive. (Average Max Temperature: 8°C. Average Rainfall: 26mm.)

Paris Events and Festivals

Paris in January

• Grande Parade de Paris – Marching bands, dancers, parade floats, and clowns ring in the new year along the Champs-Elysees: from Place de la Concorde to L’Arc de Triomphe and back again. Beginning at 2pm, New Years Day.
• Festival du Merveilleux (The Festival of Wonders) – For a brief period at the end of each year, the private Museum of Fairground Arts (Musée des Arts Forains) opens its portals to the public, granting an unusual hands-on encounter with its spectacular collection of antique carousels and amusement park rides. Held in late December through early January at the Musée des Arts Forains in Bercy, 12th Arrondissement. Reservations necessary.
• Ice Skating – Rinks at the Trocadero, Champs-Elysees, and the Grand Palais close temporarily during early January, but you can skate at the Eiffel Tower through mid-February and at the Hotel de Ville until March 1.
• Les Soldes (Wintertime Sales) – Bargains (and crowds) abound during this biannual retail sales extravaganza. At shops across Paris from early January through mid-February.

Paris in February

• Carnaval de Paris – Parisians shake off the winter blues with this colorful parade winding through the city from Place Gambetta to the Hotel de Ville on the first Sunday in February.
• Chinese New Year – A vibrant celebration of the community of Paris with French-Chinese heritage, including concerts, cultural occasions, and several parades across the city. (The most notable take place in the Marais District, Belleville, and the 13th Arrondissement.) Dates change yearly as per the lunar calendar.

Paris in March

• Paris Fashion Week – The fashion industry ends its worldwide tour at the Carrousel du Louvre, where the premier designers from across the globe display their fall collections across a series of exclusive showings and gatherings held throughout one week.
• Carnaval des Femmes – Expect elaborate costumes, dancing viewers at this centuries-old celebration by laundresses along the Seine. Taking place mid-Lent, the parade begins at Place du Chalet.
• The Flea-Market Festival in Chatou, France – A semiannual event occurring over 12 days in mid-March hosting more than 700 dealers selling antiques and collectibles from across France, drawing crowds of 35,000 people to eat, drink and negotiate purchases.
• Cinéma du Réel – Documentary film festival showcasing over 200 films by experienced directors and newcomers alike. Takes place over 10 days at the Pompidou Centre and various collaborating theaters across Paris in mid to late March.
• Musical Ensembles Celebration – A 10-day nationwide festival of classical music, with renowned orchestras carrying out at Théâtre du Châtelet, Cité del la Musique, Théâtre des Champs-Elysées and other venues across France. Late March.
• Printemps du Cinéma – Nationwide 3 day low-budget film gala. Over 5,000 movie theaters across France lower ticket prices to €3.50 for each showing. Late March.
• Art Paris Art Fair – The Grand Palais plays host to over 140 international galleries in this recognition of modern European visual art. End of March.
• Banlieues Bleues Festival – A springtime jazz celebration highlighting live acts from across the globe at venues in Seine-Saint-Denis, just northeast of Paris, from March to April.

Paris in April

• Paris Marathon – 37,000 athletes from around the globe take their journey past some of Paris’ most stunning landmarks, looping through the heart of the city from the Champs-Elysées back to the Arc de Triomphe on the first Sunday in April.
• Sunday Races – The equestrian events at Longchamps are particularly enjoyable on April Sundays, when visitors will find activities like a carousel, scavenger hunt, and pony races for children, plus free admission for those aged 18 and under.
• The Sheraton Seattle’s Gingerbread Village – Local architects and baking teams unite to create and display holiday scenes made entirely of candies and treats. Runs through early January.

Paris in May

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• The Prestigious Paris Steeplechase – Widely considered the premier equestrian gathering in France, this steeplechase-style equine race is initiated by the well-liked Defile des Drags, a parade of majestic horse-drawn carriages from the Arc de Triomphe down Avenue Foch. Held in mid-May at the Hippodrome d’Auteuil in the 16th Arrondissement.
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• We Love Green Festival – An eco-friendly celebration of rock, pop, and electronic music, along with organic food, local produce, and sustainable partying. Takes place on the last weekend of May in Paris’ beautiful Parc de Bagatelle.
• Open-air performances at the Jardin de Shakespeare – From May through September, this romantic garden in the Bois de Boulogne hosts a series of outdoor theatrical shows, most of which are Shakespeare plays, with many performed in English.
• French Open (Roland Garros) – Internationally renowned grand slam tennis tournament held on the clay courts of the Stade Roland Garros. Late May /Early June.

Paris in June

• Öskudagur – Öskudagur, or Ash Wednesday, is on the seventh Wednesday before Easter (February 14 in 2018). This is when Icelandic children dress in costume and sing for candy, similar to Halloween.
• The Carnaval Tropical – A parade with dancing, calypso music, and colorful costumes, going from Place de la Nation through streets of the 11th arrondissement and back. Dates vary yearly.
• Paris Pride – A lively promenade from the 15th Arrondissement to the Place de la Bastille culminates in a huge street gathering during this colourful commemoration of GLBT folks and their allies. Mid-June.
• Champs-Elysées Film Festival – Annual juried film event focusing on American independent and documentary film, as well as French and American film premieres. Takes place at theaters on the Champs-Elysées in mid-June.
• World Music Day (Fête de la Musique) – On the longest day of the year, the French celebrate music (and its creation) with live bands and free shows across the streets of Paris and beyond. Held on 21 June, involvement is encouraged.
• The gorgeous Orangerie at la Parc de la Bagatelle hosts the Chopin Festival, honoring the renowned Polish composer with a series of open-air classical concerts held each June and July.
• Paris Jazz Festival – Savor a picnic in the park while enjoying world-class jazz music at this weeks-long festival at the Parc Floral de Vincennes. Concerts are complimentary with park admission, but arrive early, as these shows are extremely popular. Saturdays and Sundays from mid-June through July.
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Paris in July

• Bastille Day (la Fête Nationale) – The French national holiday is celebrated early in Paris, with music, food, drinks and dancing at popular Firefighters` balls held at fire stations across the city on the night of 13 July, from 9pm-4am. Celebrations on the 14th include a morning military procession along the Champs-Elysées, a free concert on the Champs-de-Mars, and a fireworks display above the Eiffel Tower at 11pm.
• Paris Plages – Every summer, the seaside environment comes to Paris when the banks on the right side of the Seine are transformed into a series of sandy beaches. Complete with deckchairs and umbrellas, the beaches offer sunbathing, boules and sandcastle competitions, and family-friendly coastal activities from mid-July through mid-August. Who needs the coastline? Open daily from 9am through midnight, free of charge.
• Tour de France – Spectators energetically cheer as participants in the world`s most prestigious bicycling race pedal through the streets of Paris to the finish line on the Champs-Elysées in late July. If you want to view the riders without huge crowds, position yourself near the Musée d’Orsay on the Left Bank.
• Outdoor Cinema in La Villette Park – Visitors are invited to bring a picnic basket as a month-long free film festival plays classic and modern movies outdoors at the Parc de la Villette in northeast Paris. Films will be shown in their original language with French subtitles each evening around sunset, pending agreeable weather. Taking place from mid-July through mid-August.
• Quartier d’Eté Festival – A series of entertainment activities including dancing, music performances, and theatrical shows held in various indoor and outdoor spaces across Paris throughout July and August, with many being free of charge.
• Cinema au Clair de Lune – Free outdoor movie nights held in various iconic parks and gardens around Paris, from late July through mid-August.

Paris in August

• Celebration of the Assumption – Religious Parisians and pilgrims from around the globe honor this Catholic holy day with an evening river procession on the Seine on August 14th, followed on the morning of the 15th by a special mass at Notre Dame Cathedral and a grand procession through Ile de la Cité and Ile Saint Louis.
• Rock en Seine – Dozens of world-famous musical performers take to 5 stages within a historic park setting over the course of 3 days at this large rock music festival held at the Domaine national de Saint-Cloud, just West of Paris in late August.

Paris in September

• Music Event at a Paris Park – A well-known 10-day celebration featuring jazz and fusion styles, with performances by celebrated and emerging musicians as well as films, exhibitions, master classes, and children`s activities. Held early September in the Parc de la Villette park in northeast Paris.
• Festival d’Ile de France – Throughout September, historic places across the Ile de France play host to approximately 30 classical, modern, and worldwide music concerts, which are supplemented by guided tours, workshops, and masterclasses.
• Le Grand Feu de Saint-Cloud – 90 minutes, 23,000 spectators, Europe’s largest and most spectacular fireworks show. Tickets can be purchased in advance online, and consistently sell out. Held in mid-September at the Parc de Saint-Cloud, on the western outskirts of Paris.
• The Paris Fall Festival – A multi-disciplinary arts event featuring the latest in global theater, music, dance, visual arts, and film. Held from mid-September through December at various venues all over the city.
• Techno Event – The streets of Paris become a giant dance venue during this celebration of electronic music, with floats carrying dancers and DJs, techno music reverberating off city buildings, and 350,000 revelers dancing in the streets. Held in mid-September, the event travels north through the city from the Place de la Nation to the Place de la Bastille.
• Days Showcasing European Cultural Heritage – Structures, monuments, and places usually closed to the public open their doors once annually for tours. Most sites have no fee, though many require reservations made in advance. Held on the third weekend of September at varied places across the city.
• Paris Garden Festival (Fete de Jardins a Paris) – Two-day celebration of Parisian horticulture, with guided tours, show gardens, special events and workshops, and over 150 parks and gardens open for touring – including many which are generally closed to the public. Held in late September across Paris.
• Paris Fashion Week – The fashion industry concludes its global tour at the Carrousel du Louvre, where the top designers from around the world debut their spring and summer collections through a series of exclusive shows and celebrations held over the course of a week in late September or early October.
• The Foire de Chatou Antiques Fair – Semiannual flea market festival in nearby Chatou, France. 35,000 visitors eat, drink, and bargain with over 700 antique and collectible dealers from across France. Late September/Early October.

Paris in October

• Prix de l`Arc de Triomphe – Europe’s most prestigious horse race that takes place on the first Sunday of October at Longchamp racecourse in the Bois de Boulogne park.
• All Night Long Celebration of Artistry – Cultural establishments across Paris extend their availability, and live performances, installations, and distinctive programs take place into the early morning hours during this after-dark appreciation of creative works and culture. Held early in October citywide in Paris.
• Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival – A well-liked weekend-long celebration of wine in the 18th Arrondissement, with a street procession, fireworks, performances, dances, and guided tours of the Montmartre vineyards. Early October.
• La Semaine Du Gout (Tasting Week) – Numerous of Paris’ top restaurants offer specially valued menus or two-for-one deals amid this widespread culinary acknowledgment. Mid-October.
• Annual International Art Display (FIAC) – Thousands of artists from all over the world exhibit their works within the stunning backdrops of the Grand Palais and Cité de la Mode et du Design buildings. It takes place in late October.
• Pitchfork Music Festival – For three consecutive days, international indie music shows will be held at the Grande Halle de la Villette in northeast Paris. This will take place in late October.

Paris in November

• ATP World Master’s Tour 1000 – The tennis world converges on Paris for the final international men’s tennis occasion of the season. Held at the Palais Omnisports in Bercy in early November.
• Armistice Day – On this date commemorating the end of World War I, France honors its fallen and wounded soldiers through a somber ceremony and vigil held on the Champs-Elysées. 11 November, 9am.
• Paris Photo – Significant fine art affair, showcasing nineteenth century and modern photographic works from over 100 exhibitors at the Grand Palais. Mid-November.
• Africolor Music Festival – A music festival showcasing the work of African and Caribbean artists through a series of concerts, workshops, and master classes. Held in mid-November through late December in various venues across Paris.
• Ice Skating at the Champs-Elysées – A sure indicator that winter is approaching, this iconic rink near Place de la Concorde on the Champs-Elysées opens in mid-November.
• Seasonal Adornments and Displays – Paris’ lighting displays for the Christmas season and windows styled by department stores begin appearing around mid-November, typically remaining visible into early January.

Paris in December

• Ice Skating – The rink at the Champs-Elysées is open all through December. The elevated rink on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower usually opens in early December, and those at the Hotel de Ville, Grand Palais, and Trocadero pop up around mid-Month.
• Seasonal Decorations and Public Displays – Around Paris’ 18 districts, the festive environment during Christmas is augmented by decorative lighting on prominent roadways like the Champs-Elysées and Avenue Montaigne as well as spectacular shop window presentations at major department stores such as Galeries Lafayette and Printemps. The traditional village atmosphere of Montmartre is another highlight of this seasonal experience.
• Marches de Noel (Christmas Markets) – Temporary markets will be set up throughout the city of Paris starting in early December each year, typically on the first weekend. Visitors can find unique gifts, snacks, hot drinks, and mulled wine at stalls throughout the area, especially at locations like Champs-Elysées, Trocadero, Notre Dame Cathedral, Montparnasse Tower, and Montmartre.
• Paris Courts Devant – An annual festival showing short films from established and up-and-coming directors globally. It occurs in mid-December across venues in the Montmartre District.
• New Year’s Eve Fireworks – Fireworks displays at the Eiffel Tower are only held on certain years, but you can always join the reveling hordes at the Champs-Elysées, as they ring in the New Year by watching the show over the Arc de Triomphe.