Paris is a popular tourist spot, welcoming over 11 million visitors each year across the greater area of the city, and this only increases around the times of major events, such as the 2024 Olympic Games.
Deciding the best time to visit Paris depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and events you’d like to attend. Whether you plan on enjoying some mouthwatering Parisian cuisine or a romantic trip where you can visit iconic landmarks (an Eiffel Tower proposal perhaps?), staying at one of the boutique hotels in Paris with iconic Eiffel Tower views can enhance your experience with breathtaking scenery right from your room. This guide will help you navigate the city’s seasons and find the perfect time of year to visit the City of Light.
Best Time to Visit Paris by Season
The best season to visit Paris depends completely on what kind of getaway you hope to have. Paris is a gorgeous place to visit no matter the time of year, but your experience is likely to vary based on the seasonal weather changes, popular events, and crowds of tourists. Let’s take a look at each season to help make this decision easier for you.
1. Spring (March to May)
Springtime is known for Paris’ beautiful weather, blooming gardens, and plenty of cultural events. Flowers start to bloom at the beginning of spring. Be sure to visit between March and May if you plan on visiting any of the city’s stunning botanical gardens.
March is a popular time of year to visit, as temperatures fall around 6°C to 12°C (43°F to 54°F). March is also when the Paris Half Marathon is, making the city a hit with athletes this time of year.
In contrast, April experiences slightly fewer tourists, but this is arguably when the gardens–part of what makes Paris an icon of romance–are at their beautiful best. Temperatures range between 8°C and 16°C (46°F and 61°F). This is when the full Paris Marathon and easter celebrations are held.
By May, the weather begins to warm up to a comfortable 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F). This makes it the ideal time of year to enjoy outdoor activities.
2. Summer (June to August)
Summer is when the weather gets warmest in Paris. Thanks to the beautiful, clear skies and gorgeous temperatures, this makes it the peak tourist season. Visitors looking to enjoy outdoor activities, such as visiting parks, botanical gardens, and shopping in the bustling streets.
June is when the parks truly come to life, with gorgeous temperatures of 15°C to 23°C (59°F to 73°F). It’s a great time of year to visit if you’re a music lover, thanks to Fête de la Musique and Paris Jazz Festival both taking place at the start of summer in June.
July brings about the quintessential Parisian summer and is one of the most popular times of year to visit. The Tour de France finale is held in June. The weather is absolutely glorious in July though. With temperatures ranging between 17°C and 25°C (63°F and 77°F), it’s easy to see why it’s such a popular time of year.
Thankfully, the city gets a little quieter in August, making it the perfect time for relaxed sightseeing. Be sure to visit open-air cinemas and enjoy the Paris Plages (beaches along the Seine). Temperatures during August range between 16°C and 25°C (61°F and 77°F).
3. Fall (September to November)
The fall months welcome fewer tourists and slightly milder temperatures, as well as a few fun festivals. This makes it the perfect time of year for those seeking more cultural experiences.
The mild temperatures in September range from 13°C to 21°C (55°F to 70°F), making it a perfect time for sightseeing and finding the best photo opportunities in Paris.
October is when the leaves truly turn in color, painting the city a beautiful golden hue. This is a wonderful time of year to enjoy a stroll through a gorgeous park or along the river. Temperatures falling between 10°C and 17°C (50°F and 63°F). October also brings some great events, such as the Montmartre Wine Harvest Festival and Nuit Blanche (all-night art festival).
November welcomes even fewer crowds as the temperature drops even lower, falling between 6°C and 12°C (43°F and 54°F).
4. Winter (December to February)
The wintertime in Paris is a truly magical time of year. With fewer crowds, but still a bustling atmosphere at the popular Christmas markets, it makes for a wonderful winter getaway.
December is the best time of year to enjoy the magical Christmas atmosphere, with busy Christmas markets and twinkling lights. It may be cold in December, but this only adds to the wonderfully festive atmosphere.
January is equally as cold as December, with temperatures sitting at around 3°C to 7°C (37°F to 45°F). Visitors can enjoy quiet streets, cozy cafes, and plenty of great deals with new-year sales at the gorgeous fashion boutiques! As if the shopping deals weren’t good enough, January is the time of year you simply must visit if you’re a fashionista, thanks to this being the month when Paris Fashion Week is held!
February continues the festivities, with great celebrations such as Paris Carnival and Chinese New Year. Of course, what better place is there to spend Valentine’s Day than one of the most romantic places in France?
What is the Best Time to Go to Paris?
While Paris is a truly beautiful destination all year round, for many different reasons, but many visitors claim that spring and fall are the best times to visit, thanks to the mild weather, fewer crowds, and multiple cultural events.
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway though, it’s best to consider February or December for a truly special, winter wonderland experience.
Some visitors recommend visiting during summer if you enjoy being in the sunshine, bustling crowds, and outdoor festivals and events.
Booking Your Paris Trip
Be sure to plan well in advance for your trip to Paris in order to help save money on flights and hotels. For affordable deals, be sure to check on popular booking sites such as Skyscanner for flights, Booking.com for hotel accommodations, and Trainline for train tickets in Europe.
No matter the length of your Paris escape, be it a handful of days or a more leisurely week, be sure to plan and book ahead for visiting major landmarks and attractions such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, so you can get there with ease.
Conclusion:
Paris is a gorgeous city that’s great at any time of year, with each month offering its own unique atmosphere and charm. Whether you’re looking to explore the gorgeous outdoors in spring or summer or soak up the culture in autumn or winter, there’s always something special to discover in the City of Light.
FAQs
May and September are arguably the best months to visit for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Summer is vibrant but crowded, while winter offers a quieter, more festive experience. Which is the best time to go to Paris typically comes down to personal preference, though we personally prefer the laid-back cozy charm Paris exudes in the winter months.
Four to five days is ideal for exploring major attractions and neighborhoods in Paris.
Paris can be pricey, but budget-friendly accommodations and dining options are definitely available. You may just have to look a bit deeper to find them!
May tends to be one of the rainiest months, but it also brings mild weather and blooming gardens