Bonjour, citizens! Wondering when to pack your bags? Let´s help you pick the best time to visit Paris. Oui, the City of Lights, where every cobblestone whispers a story. From the scent of freshly-baked croissants to the sight of the Eiffel Tower twinkling at night, Paris promises a different kind of magic every month. Ready to fall in love with Paris, season by season? Let´s dive in!
Visiting Paris is like dating someone who’s charming year-round. But, if we must choose, aim for April to June, August or December. For different reasons, these months offer Paris at its best (scroll down for the deets!) But honestly, Paris is like a well-aged camembert - fabulous at any time.
Visiting Paris is always a good idea, no matter the season. So, whether you're up for the bustling high season or the chill vibes of the low season, it all boils down to how you feel about crowds and weather. High season, from June to September, means vibrant festivals and outdoor events – perfect for warm, busy days. Low season, from December to February, offers a quieter, more intimate vibe, with shorter lines at museums and snug cafes for a hot chocolate stop. But weather isn't the only highlight of each season. So let's dive into the details, citizens.
Rain in Paris is just another excuse to look chic under an umbrella. Paris can be a bit weepy (we blame the romantic atmosphere), with around 111 rainy days a year. But, as we say, when it rains, it pours…charm. Surprisingly, the most rainy months in Paris are May and December. Despite the comfy temperatures in May, it is the most unpredictable month when it comes to raindrops. The pro? Paris bursts into full bloom! It's the perfect time to visit all the gardens Paris has to offer. As for December, well, it’s classic December. The cozy winter vibes and holiday cheer make up for the rain. Really, it’s all just part of Paris’s undeniable charm.
Winter is when Paris goes into cosy mode. The streets may be chilly, but the heart of the city beats warm. The Louvre and Musée d'Orsay beckon with their world-class art, and let’s not forget the fashion sales in January – a stylish steal!
December The City of Light truly lives up to its name. Streets glitter with festive lights, Christmas markets pop up like mushrooms after rain, and there’s an undeniable buzz in the air. Grab a hot chocolate and roam the charmingly decorated streets. Maybe you'll find a croqueta-themed ornament! Joyeux Noël, everyone! Paris dazzles with festive cheer as Christmas markets pop up around the city, offering handmade gifts and seasonal treats. So bundle up, grab a hot mulled wine, and let the holiday magic begin!
January New Year's in Paris is as chic as it gets. Post-celebration, January offers quiet charm. Museums less crowded, perfect for a serene stroll through art and history. Plus, it's sale season in Paris. Bargain hunters, unite! Let's kick off the new year in style as Paris lights up with its legendary fireworks show at the Arc de Triomphe. Picture this: the Eiffel Tower twinkling like a giant disco ball while you cozy up with a warm croqueta and a steaming cup of chocolat chaud. C'est magnifique!
February Love is in the air, mes amis! Paris becomes the ultimate romantic playground for Valentine's Day. Treat your special someone to a dreamy candlelit dinner cruise along the Seine, where you'll glide past Notre-Dame Cathedral and fall in love all over again. Oh là là, c'est l'amour!
Paris in spring is pure charm. As the city shakes off the winter chill, blossoms emerge, café terraces fill, and the city’s parks turn into canvases of colour. This season is a true celebration of renewal and the perfect time to experience the city’s romantic charm. March When cherry blossoms paint the city pink and outdoor cafés begin to buzz. Wander through the Jardin des Tuileries and feel the city awakening from winter’s slumber.
April Paris in April showers you with beauty. It's not just rain; it's liquid poetry. A perfect excuse to duck into a patisserie for a croissant or three.
May Everything's in full bloom, and so are the festivals. It's the kickoff of outdoor fun. Picnics by the Seine, anyone? Grab a baguette and soak up the vibe.
Summer brings out Paris's vibrant side. Streets come alive with music festivals, outdoor cinemas and picnics along the Seine. Longer days and warmer weather make it ideal for exploring the city's endless array of sights and sounds. From bustling markets to serene sunset views from Montmartre, summer in Paris is a lively affair.
June Summer kicks off with the Fête de la Musique, a city-wide celebration of music where the streets come alive with free concerts and performances. Grab your sandals and get ready to dance the night away.
July Bastille Day is here and Paris is ready to party with a spectacular military parade and fireworks. Join the crowds lining the Champs-Élysées for a show that will leave you saying "ooh la la!"
August Paris is quiet in August with many locals on vacation, secretly making it one of the best times to visit. Fewer crowds mean more space at museums and cafés. Perfect for a peaceful flânerie.
Want to know more? Check out our guide to summer in Paris for all the hot finds of the season.
As autumn arrives, Paris takes on a golden glow. The air becomes crisp, the leaves turn into shades of amber and gold, and the city embraces a more introspective, cozy mood. This is also the time when cultural events pick up the pace, offering an array of experiences for locals and visitors alike.
September Paris Fashion Week, citizens! Join the fashionistas and trendsetters as they strut their stuff on the catwalks of the world's fashion capital. Time to unleash your inner fashion icon and strike a pose!
October Get ready for a spooky soirée, everyone! Halloween brings ghostly parades and costume parties to the streets of Paris. So dust off your best costume and get ready for a night of frights and delights!
November As the days shorten, Paris preps for the holiday season. It's quieter, more introspective. A lovely time for those seeking a slower pace, with a touch of pre-Christmas sparkle.
And voilà! A year in Paris, where every season brings its own flavour of magic. Whether you’re chasing summer sunsets or winter’s intimate charm, Paris (and ourselves) are waiting with open arms. Book your stay at one of our hotels in Paris and discover why this city has been stealing hearts for centuries. Let’s make some unforgettable memories – Parisian style.