Paris, the City of Light, is one of the most visited destinations in the world — and for good reason. With its romantic charm, iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame, world-class museums and divine pastries on every corner, it's a dream destination year-round. But if you're wondering about the best time to visit Paris, France, some seasons shine brighter than others.
The best time to visit Paris, France, is during the spring season, from March to May. The weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C), making it perfect for outdoor activities.
From the blooming gardens of spring to the cozy Christmas markets of winter, here’s your friendly guide to planning the perfect Parisian escape.
Spring: March to May
Best for: Blooming Gardens & Outdoor Cafés
Average temperatures: 50°F to 70°F / 10°C to 21°C
Spring in Paris is the city’s most celebrated season, and for good reason. The weather is refreshingly mild, with the perfect balance of sunshine and cool breezes. As the trees bloom and flowers fill the gardens, the city is painted in a spectrum of colors, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and leisurely strolls.
The famous parks, like the Jardin des Tuileries and Jardin du Luxembourg, are in full bloom, inviting you to take in the natural beauty. Parisian cafés also come to life, with locals filling the terraces to enjoy their morning coffee or evening apéritifs. Spring also marks the return of many cultural events, including art exhibitions, theater productions and classical concerts, making it an exciting time to experience Paris’ rich cultural scene.
Key Events & Activities:
- Jardin des Tuileries & Jardin du Luxembourg: These historic gardens are in full bloom, making them ideal spots for a picnic or a peaceful stroll.
- Outdoor Cafés: This is the season when sidewalk cafés come to life again. Order a café crème and people-watch along the Seine or near Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
- Art & Culture: Spring is also a wonderful time for excursions that explore the city’s art scene, including guided tours of the Louvre, Musée d'Orsay or the Rodin Museum.
Shore excursions that begin in northern France or Belgium often include a day trip to Paris during this season, thanks to the pleasant walking conditions and stunning scenery.
Summer: June to August
Best for: Festivals & Extended Daylight
Average temperatures: 65°F to 80°F / 18°C to 27°C
Summer in Paris is full of energy and excitement. The long daylight hours mean you can make the most of every moment, exploring the city’s vibrant streets and enjoying outdoor events. While it’s the busiest tourist season, the lively atmosphere of Paris is infectious, with festivals, street performances and open-air concerts popping up throughout the city.
The famous Bastille Day celebrations in July are a highlight, with parades, fireworks and dancing in the streets. Paris-Plages, the city’s unique summer transformation of the Seine’s banks into beach-like retreats, offers an oasis of sand, lounge chairs and food trucks. For a more tranquil experience, evening boat cruises along the Seine provide stunning views of Paris’ iconic landmarks under the golden glow of sunset.
Key Events & Activities:
- Bastille Day (July 14): Paris throws an epic celebration on France’s national day, complete with a military parade, fireworks at the Eiffel Tower and dancing in the streets.
- Paris-Plages: In July and August, the banks of the Seine transform into “Paris Beaches” with sand, lounge chairs and food trucks — an unusual but fun summer surprise.
- Evening Cruises: Take an evening river cruise along the Seine to see the city’s monuments bathed in golden light.
While crowds and prices are at their peak, summer offers a calendar packed with music festivals, open-air cinema and performances, making it worth the buzz.
Autumn: September to November
Best for: Fewer Tourists & Fall Colors
Average temperatures: 50°F to 70°F / 10°C to 21°C
Autumn is one of the most underrated seasons in Paris. The crowds from summer have thinned, and the city’s parks and streets are awash in golden and red hues as the leaves turn. The comfortable weather allows for long walks through neighborhoods like Montmartre, where you can enjoy a quiet afternoon and soak in the picturesque surroundings.
Autumn also brings exciting cultural events, such as Paris Fashion Week and various film festivals, adding glamour to the city’s atmosphere. For wine lovers, the Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s winemaking history and enjoy local tastings. This is the season when Paris feels like it’s truly for the locals, making it an excellent time to experience authentic Parisian life.
Key Events & Activities:
- Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival (October): Celebrate Paris’ winemaking history with tastings, parades and local entertainment in this charming hilltop neighborhood.
- Museum-Hopping: Cooler weather invites long, immersive visits to iconic museums like the Louvre, Centre Pompidou and Musée de l'Orangerie.
- Fashion & Film: Paris Fashion Week and various film festivals fill the fall with glamour and culture.
Autumn shore excursions often offer wine tastings, walking tours of Montmartre or a stop at Versailles under golden leaves.
Winter: December to February
Best for: Holiday Magic & Cozy Vibes
Average temperatures: 35°F to 45°F / 2°C to 7°C
Winter in Paris is enchanting, with the city transforming into a festive wonderland. While the temperatures are colder, the atmosphere is warm and inviting. Christmas markets pop up around the city, offering mulled wine, handmade gifts, and holiday treats that fill the air with cheer. The twinkling lights of the Champs-Élysées and other iconic streets create a magical backdrop for evening walks.
If you’re looking to escape the cold, Paris offers a treasure trove of indoor activities, including world-class museums, grand opera houses and cozy cafés where you can enjoy hot chocolate or mulled wine. Despite being off-season, winter in Paris offers a quieter, more intimate experience, allowing you to enjoy the city’s art, culture and cuisine at a more leisurely pace.
Key Events & Activities:
- Christmas Markets: Paris lights up with festive stalls in spots like Les Halles, the Champs-Élysées and Montmartre, where you’ll find mulled wine, handmade gifts and seasonal treats.
- Ice Skating at Hôtel de Ville: Strap on your skates and enjoy the magical setting of an ice rink in front of the beautiful city hall.
- Indoor Culture: Duck into opulent spaces like Palais Garnier for a ballet or opera or warm up with a hot chocolate at Angelina’s near the Louvre.
While winter is off-season, it’s a great time to visit if you’re looking for quiet museums, lower hotel rates and a cozier, more local experience.
When is the Best Time to Visit Paris, France?
The best time to visit Paris, France, is in the spring—from March to May. During these months, the weather is comfortable, the gardens and parks are in full bloom and the city comes alive with color and charm. It's ideal for sightseeing, outdoor dining and exploring neighborhoods like Le Marais, Montmartre and the Latin Quarter on foot. You’ll also enjoy fewer crowds than in the summer, along with a full calendar of cultural events and just the right balance between lively energy and Parisian relaxation. For a perfect Paris experience, plan your visit in the spring. Bon voyage!
Keep Exploring Paris, France
Want to learn more about this gem? Check out these guides to plan your next trip:
- Paris, France Shore Excursions - Uncover the best of Paris with shore excursions that take you on unforgettable adventures.
- What is Paris, France Known For? - Learn more about the city's romantic atmosphere, world-class museums and iconic landmarks.
- What to Eat in Paris - Savor the flavors as you taste your way through your latest adventure.
- What to Buy When Shopping in Paris - Discover the best souvenirs, from designer finds to small mementos.
FAQs: Visiting Paris
1. When is the best time to visit Paris for good weather?
The best weather in Paris usually arrives in spring (March to May) and fall (September to October). During these seasons, the city enjoys mild temperatures between 50°F and 70°F (10°C to 21°C), making it perfect for strolling through gardens, exploring outdoor cafés and sightseeing without the extremes of summer heat or winter chill. These months also bring colorful blooms in spring and golden foliage in autumn, which add an extra layer of magic to Paris’ already iconic scenery.
2. What is the cheapest month to visit Paris?
The cheapest month to visit Paris is January, when hotel rates are at their lowest and airfares often drop after the holiday rush. February and March are also budget-friendly, offering affordable accommodations and fewer crowds before the spring season begins. While the weather is cold, you’ll save significantly on travel costs and enjoy quieter museums, cozy cafés and a more local feel. For travelers looking to stretch their budget, winter is the most cost-effective time to experience Paris.
3. What are the peak tourism seasons in Paris?
Paris’s peak season runs from late May through mid-September, when school holidays, long daylight hours and major events like the French Open and Bastille Day attract visitors worldwide. Late December also draws large crowds, thanks to the city’s festive Christmas markets and sparkling holiday lights. While peak season means higher prices and busy attractions, the lively atmosphere can be worth it if you thrive on energy and celebration.
4. Is winter a good time to visit Paris?
Yes, winter (December to February) is a wonderful time to visit if you’re looking for festive charm and a quieter atmosphere. Though temperatures dip to 35°F to 45°F (2°C to 7°C), the city comes alive with Christmas markets, ice skating rinks and twinkling holiday lights along the Champs-Élysées. Winter also means fewer tourists, so you’ll enjoy shorter lines at museums and better hotel deals. Cozy cafés and indoor cultural venues like the Palais Garnier make Paris just as magical in the colder months.
5. What is the best month to visit Paris?
Each month has its own charm, but if you want a balance of mild weather, lively energy and manageable crowds, May is often considered the best overall month to experience Paris. The best month to visit Paris depends on what you’re looking for: - May offers ideal weather, blooming gardens and vibrant café culture. - October delivers crisp air, colorful fall foliage and fewer tourists. - March is perfect for budget travelers who want lower rates and early signs of spring before peak crowds arrive.
6. What is Paris’ rainy season?
The wettest months in Paris are May, June and October, when brief but frequent rain can occur. Rain in Paris is usually light and passing rather than heavy downpours, so it rarely disrupts travel plans. A small umbrella or stylish raincoat is all you’ll need to keep exploring the city’s streets, gardens and cafés in true Parisian style.
7. What is Paris’ coldest month?
The coldest month in Paris is January, with average temperatures ranging from 35°F to 43°F (2°C to 6°C). While snow is rare, chilly winds and gray skies are common, so warm layers are essential. Despite the cold, January can be a rewarding time to visit — crowds are low, hotel rates are at their best and you’ll have famous landmarks and museums like the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay with far fewer lines. Cozying up in a café with hot chocolate or vin chaud (mulled wine) makes winter in Paris feel especially inviting.
8. What is the hottest month in Paris?
The hottest month in Paris is July, when average daytime temperatures range from 64°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Heatwaves can occasionally push temperatures higher, making shaded gardens, rooftop terraces and evening walks along the Seine especially appealing. July also coincides with peak tourist season, so while the city buzzes with festivals, open-air concerts and Bastille Day celebrations, you’ll want to book accommodations early and be prepared for busy attractions.
