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It’s no secret around here that I love Paris. I love the food, the culture, the energy, the architecture.. I could go on forever. But one thing I really love about Paris is that it’s one of those cities that you can basically visit any time of the year, and still have an amazing time.
I’ve had the pleasure of visiting Paris through all the seasons, so I feel super prepared to tell you all the pros and cons of the different seasons, along with a month by month guide for when to visit Paris!
- Fast Facts About the Best Time to Visit Paris by Month
- How many days do you need in Paris?
- What is the best month to go to Paris?
- What is the rainy month in Paris?
- What is the cheapest month to go to Paris?
- Is 5 days in Paris too long?
- What months are expensive in Paris?
- Is Paris worth visiting in winter?
- How can I enjoy Paris in winter?
- Is Paris romantic in winter?
- Is it cold in Paris in the winter?
- The Best Time to Visit Paris: Month by Month Guide
- January: New Year
- February: For Romantics & Crowd Haters
- March: (Maybe Rainy) Budget Travel
- April: Shoulder Season & Better Weather
- May: Picnics Galore
- June: Month of Culture
- July: For Those Who Love the Heat
- August: A Slower Paced City
- September: Fashion & Perfect Temps
- October: Crisp Weather & Pretty Leaves
- November: Early (Affordable) Christmas Cheer
- December: Chilly Festive Season
Delve into France
Check out the rest of my France posts and guides if you’re still planning your perfect trip.
If you’re just visiting Paris, explore the Paris archives here!
The Best Time to Visit Paris: Month by Month Guide
January: Ring in the New Year and Celebrate Fewer Crowds
January is the best time to visit Paris for those looking for a deal, and who don’t mind bundling up to get it! The lower tourist crowds in January allow you to explore iconic landmarks like the Louvre or Eiffel Tower without the usual crowds.
Plus, you’ll usually find better prices on accommodations and dining—except during the New Year’s period. On the other hand, though expensive, celebrating New Year’s in Paris is a magical experience, and seeing fireworks behind the Eiffel Tower is a sight to see.
If you’re going to Paris in January just be prepared for some chilly temperatures, with an average of 40°F (5°C), and the potential for snow (though it’s not too common).
But, if you’re willing to bundle up, Paris in January promises a quieter, budget-friendly escape with a touch of winter wonder.
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February: Cozy Up for a Romantic Valentine’s Day
Paris is obviously one of the most romantic cities in the world, so any couples out there wanting to really kick their Valentine’s Day into high-gear should consider making the trip in February. You still have the potential for snow (though it’s not super common), and it will be cold, with an average temperature around 40°F (5°C) still.
The smaller tourist crowds in February will give you a chance to explore popular restaurants, museums, and sights with a bit more ease.
Additionally, you’ll likely find better deals on accommodations and flights during this off-peak month, which is actually one of the cheapest months for accommodations on average.
Fashion enthusiasts can also catch some of the excitement of Paris Fashion Week, which straddles February and March.
❣️ Planning a Valentine’s Day visit to the City of Light? ❣️
There are plenty of things to do in Paris in February! This private night tour in a vintage Citroen with champagne is about as romantic as it gets. Or, if you’re looking for something a little raunchier, I recommend a visit to the Moulin Rouge cabaret show!
March: Brave the Rain & Take Advantage of Lower Prices
On the downside, March is one of the rainiest months (11 days see rain on average), so be sure to pack accordingly!
However, there’s a silver lining – March is still one of the cheapest times to visit the city, so it’s one of the best times to visit Paris for budget travelers.
It’s not quite as cheap as January and February, but the weather in Paris for March is beginning to warm up a bit, with temperatures in the high 40s °F on average (closer to 10°C).
There will still be fewer tourists than the high season, meaning those who want to avoid crowds will still luck out in March.
🖼️ Rainy spring days = the perfect time to take in some culture! 🖼️
You won’t mind in the slightest if you visit Paris in the rain, thanks to its seemingly endless museums.
For my top picks, check out the Musée d’Orsay, the Centre Pompidou, or the Louis Vuitton Foundation. Or, purchase a Paris Museum Pass for entry to 60+ museums/sites in and around Paris!
April: Enjoy the City Reawakening for Spring
April is the best time to visit Paris for lovers of Spring! It can be so beautiful, since it’s the start of all the trees changing! It’s a time when the city really blossoms and comes back to life.
The weather in Paris in April sees temperatures finally beginning to warm up, with an average temperature sitting in the 50s °F (12-15°C). You’ll also begin to see all the trees and flowers bloom in the stunning parks around the city!
The transition from winter to spring means that April is a part of the shoulder season, so it strikes a balance between better weather, but still fewer crowds (though don’t get me wrong, there will still be crowds). It’s also not too rainy in April, with an average of 9 days a month getting rain, which is kind of middle-of-the-road for rain in Paris.
April is great for those who don’t want to sacrifice comfort and weather, but still want to get a deal.
May: Welcome Warmer Temperatures with Endless Picnics
May in Paris is probably my personal favorite month to visit Paris. It’s the first month of the year where you’ll see consistently warmer weather, with the weather in Paris in May sitting in the low 60s °F on average, but reaching into the mid-60s °F (16-18°C).
It’s still early enough in the high season that the crowds won’t be quite as aggressive as June and July, and the weather is temperate enough to enjoy outside, but not get overheated. It’s a bit of a goldilocks situation: everything’s just right, making it a top contender for the best time to visit Paris.
Prices are a bit more than the months before it, but still cheaper than the rest of the summer.
The main downside is that May is one of the rainier months in Paris, so if that’s going to bother you, May might not be great for you.
🥖 Ready to picnic the day away?! 🥖
May is the perfect time of year to join a Paris local for a picturesque picnic in the Place des Vosges, complete with hand-picked gourmet wines and cheeses!
June: Immerse Yourself in Cultural Events Like a Local
June is when the high season really comes into high-gear. You’ll get pretty perfect weather in Paris in June, with mid 60s °F on average and low 70s °F as a high (20-22°C). The days are super long at this time of year and you can really appreciate all the best that Paris has to offer.
Paris in June also sees a ton of outdoor events, such as the lively Fête de St-Denis and the vibrant Fête de la Musique, where the city comes alive with music and the residents of Paris really go all out.
That being said, June is one of the most expensive months of the year for accommodation, so I wouldn’t recommend it for anyone looking to save money on their trip.
But, if you’re willing to stretch your money, or budget a bit more for your trip, June is potentially the best time to visit Paris.
July: Bask in Late Evening Sun on Parisian Terraces
The weather in Paris in July will be hot. You can expect average temperatures in the low 70s °F, but don’t be surprised if you see the temperature hit the 80s °F or higher, especially with climate change (25+°C).
July is also one of the least rainy months in Paris, so it’s a great choice for those who want to take advantage of all the outdoor beauty the city has to offer.
Prices will still be high, and flights probably will be too. But that’s to be expected.
July also has two important events that you’ll either want to be there for, or want to avoid: The Tour de France, and Bastille Day. Both of these will draw big crowds and celebrations that will definitely be a unique experience if you’re there for them.
You’ll also have super long days in July, which is a beautiful way to experience the city.
🏰 Escape the city crowds (and heat)! 🏰
Summer is the perfect time to get out of Paris on a day trip. I recommend the Palace of Versailles for something close, or the charming village of Giverny where you can see Monet’s house and gardens (where he painted his famous water lilies)!
August: Slow Down in a City en vacances
The weather in Paris in August is probably the hottest month you’ll visit the city. Average temperatures are often in the 80s°F (25+°C), but let’s be real, heat waves are the norm now, so prepare for potentially hotter weather. It’s also the least rainy month of the year.
Like the rest of Europe, most of Paris’ residents clear out for the month of August to take their own vacations. This means that the city might be a bit emptier than the rest of the summer, but it also means that a lot of places will be closed.
Also, August can be pretty popular for other international travelers, so you may not even notice the difference in crowds.
Hotel prices might be a bit better than June and July, but I wouldn’t consider it to be a cheap month to visit Paris by any means.
September: Step Out in Your Trendiest Street Style
Paris in September offers you the chance to watch the city awaken from the summer haze. You’ll see tons of cultural events on throughout the month, culminating at the end with Paris Fashion Week (which, to be honest, unless you’re specifically interested in being there, I would avoid).
The weather in Paris for September has some great temperatures: in the mid-60s °F (around 18°C) on average, with less humidity than the months before it. There’s very few rainy days in September as well, so you can still enjoy the final bits of outdoor dining and activities.
The crowds will also begin to thin in September, but the prices won’t necessarily reflect that given the many things going on in the city all month.
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October: Stroll the Romantic Streets in Crisp Autumn Weather
October is the best time to visit Paris for those looking for a fall lover’s dream. The leaves start to change in October, but the weather is still sitting in the mid-50s on average (12-15°C), so you don’t have to sacrifice your comfort to get the cozy fall vibes!
You’ll also be able to enjoy the “Nuit Blanche” or All Night Museum Day, when the city’s museums stay open all night.
October will see a bit less tourism than September since it’s the shoulder season, but it’s still going to be crowded (it is Paris, after all)—but it won’t be manic.
💀 Embrace spooky season! 💀
Autumn is the perfect time to make a visit to Père Lachaise, which is probably one of the most famous cemeteries in the world. Admire the peace and tranquility of the cemetery amongst the changing leaves, while you visit the graves of Edith Piaf, Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, Molière, and Gertrude Stein.
If you’re looking for something even spookier, check out the Paris catacombs—the final resting place of 6 million 18th century Parisians.
November: Get in That Christmas Spirit (Even If a Bit Early)
Paris in November is really the start of the Christmas season. The weather starts to cool down a bit, with average temperatures in the high 40s °F (up to around 10°C), but still not too much rain.
In November you can enjoy Christmas markets and see the city done up with Christmas lights which makes for a festive and cozy trip. There are tons of things to do in Paris in November, and the cozy setting just adds to the appeal!
November will have fewer tourists and you’ll see prices begin to drop, so much like March it’s a nice mix of not too bad weather, not too many crowds, and decent prices.
🎄 Have a Joyeux Noël in festive Paris! 🎄
If you’re visiting at Christmastime, this after-dark Christmas bike tour is specifically designed to help you admire all of Paris’s festive lights. Not to mention the tour finishes up a Christmas market so you can grab a cozy mulled wine or hot chocolate!
December: Enjoy the City’s Wintry Festive Charm
Paris in December is perfect for Christmas lovers, and in general really brings about a magical atmosphere that makes it a dreamy time to visit. Much like November, the city is full of Christmas lights and festive decorations.
Charming Christmas markets take place all around Paris, and you can even take advantage of some ice skating rinks, which are some of the best things to do in Paris winter! There’s a chance you might get snowfall, with temperatures in the mid-40s °F (6-8°C) on average, but it’s not too common.
You’ll also probably see less crowds of tourists, and prices will be good for flights and accommodation (so long as you don’t go too near to Christmas).
Fast Facts About the Best Time to Visit Paris by Month
How many days do you need in Paris?
On average you should aim to dedicate about 4-5 days for your trip to Paris, though I personally advocate for more. If you can manage it with your itinerary, I think a week is preferable to get the most out of Paris.
With a week you’ll be able to see most (if not all) of the main sights, explore plenty of neighborhoods at a leisurely, Parisian pace, and even make a day trip to Versailles!
I’m always of the mind that there’s never too long to spend in Paris. It’s like London and New York in that way; unlike other European capitals, it really can keep you interested on its own.
What is the best month to go to Paris?
April and October are the best months to go to Paris, though I think October edges ahead a bit because you have the added benefit of the changing leaves.
Both April and October are right on the edge of the high season, so they won’t be quite as expensive as the summer months.
However, they’re also both usually a lot more temperate than the winter months they’re near, so you’ll likely get nice weather during your travels.
What is the rainy month in Paris?
December and January are typically the rainiest months in Paris.
However, Paris doesn’t have a reliable rainy season like some countries, so while you can expect a bit more rain during the winter, I wouldn’t be surprised to see rain at any point during the year!
When I was last in Paris in September it rained one day despite being very hot and sunny the rest of the week!
What is the cheapest month to go to Paris?
The cheapest month to go to Paris is going to always be in the winter season. So if the best time to visit Paris for you, translates to the cheapest time to visit Paris, November, December, January, February and sometimes March are all great bets.
It’s hard to pinpoint the absolute “cheapest” time to go to Paris because flight prices will change depending on where you’re flying from, and then of course you have to factor in hotel prices.
Just make sure to avoid holiday dates for these months (Christmas, New Years, Valentine’s Day).
Is 5 days in Paris too long?
To put it briefly: no, 5 days in Paris is not too long.
If you ask me, it’s nearly impossible to spend too much time in Paris. This is especially true because one of the best things to do in Paris is just… experience it (and eat your way through it, of course).
Five days will give you time to see plenty of sights, explore most of the best neighborhoods, shop ‘til you drop, and take some time to enjoy it all at a slightly slower pace than normal.
What months are expensive in Paris?
The most expensive months in Paris are going to always be in the high season (May – September).
The differences between each month, and the changes year to year will definitely vary, but as a rule of thumb, you’re definitely going to be paying more in the summer. However, because of all the things to do in Paris summer, it can arguably be the best time to visit Paris.
Is Paris worth visiting in winter?
Yes! Paris is definitely worth visiting in the winter. At its coldest, on average, Paris will see temperatures in the low 40s Fahrenheit (around 5°C), which is super manageable for walking around.
Honestly, sometimes colder temperatures are preferable to warm temperatures while traveling, in my opinion.
The only thing you’ll really miss out on is getting to fully take advantage of the terrace culture of Parisian bistros. However, if it’s sunny you can probably still manage a bit of people watching on an outdoor terrace over an afternoon coffee. There’s honestly still tons of things to do in Paris winter, so don’t worry too much about the winter being a downer.
Other than that, Paris is super cozy and nice in the winter. I wouldn’t say that winter is the best time to visit Paris, but it’s definitely still one of my favorite cities to visit in winter.
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How can I enjoy Paris in winter?
It’s super possible to enjoy Paris in the winter because there are so many things to do in Paris winter! For one thing, one of my favorite things to do in Paris is just walk around and explore all the best neighborhoods and hidden gems. Since it never gets much colder than 40°F (5°C) in Paris, this is still mostly possible year-round.
Also, in colder weather it’s honestly easier to enjoy shopping in Paris. Like so much of Europe, most shops in Paris (unless they’re quite high end) won’t have air conditioning, which is painful to experience in the summer. In the winter though, the warmth is welcome.
Plus, Paris is much less crowded in the winter, which means you can enjoy the museums and main sights without fighting for space with nearly as many tourists.
Finally, French food can be quite heavy, and warming, which is perfect for colder temperatures.
Is Paris romantic in winter?
Paris is quite romantic year-round, and winter is no exception.
The cold weather makes everything a bit cozier, so it’s perfect for cuddling up with your partner. There are so many romantic things to do in Paris winter, so if that’s your vibe, this might be the best time to visit Paris!
Plus, Valentine’s Day is right in the height of winter, so you can capitalize on the romance of that holiday and plan your trip around it!
Is it cold in Paris in the winter?
Yes, but it rarely, if ever, gets too cold or unmanageable. The average winter temperatures for Paris are in the 40s Fahrenheit (5-10°C), which, in my opinion, is quite manageable.
Obviously this will vary depending on your tolerance for cold, but after living in New York for five years, a Paris winter doesn’t phase me.
The nice thing about Paris is that it’s not particularly prone to snow or even that much rain, so even though it’s cold you won’t necessarily be doomed to bad weather.
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P.S. When you book using my links, you help support Rachel IRL at no extra cost to you. It’s a win-win!
Ready to plan the perfect trip to Paris?
I hope this guide has made it easier for you to figure out when the best time to visit Paris is for you and your travel concerns!
In all honesty, there’s no bad time to visit Paris, it just comes down to your preferences and what you need. If you want to save money, plan for the winter. If you want hot weather and long days, summer is your best bet. If you want a little of everything, March-April and October-November are a good bet!
As always I’d love to hear from you in the comments, and you can always tag me in your travel content on Instagram! And you can always find me on Youtube, and Pinterest.
Happy travels!
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