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Published on Oct. 23, 2024
Here's the best time to visit Paris for fewer crowds, cheaper flights and must-see attractions at their finest—from the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre Museum and more!
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We’ve all seen our favorite characters dive into exciting and often romantic experiences in Paris—the City of Love. (My current favorite? Emily’s career and love adventures in Emily in Paris on Netflix.) As a global hub for art, fashion and culture, Paris draws millions of visitors each year. In fact, Statistica reports that over 25 million domestic tourists explored Paris and the Île-de-France region in 2023 alone—and those numbers undoubtedly rose in 2024 thanks to the Paris Olympics. That’s why knowing the best time to visit Paris is essential if you want to experience the city’s top attractions and truly immerse yourself in all it has to offer.
If Paris is on your bucket list, whether for a quick trip this year or sometime in the future, you’ll definitely want to learn about the best time to visit Paris—from the peak seasons to the cheapest months for flights, all while enjoying pleasant weather. We’ve even got insider tips from Corinne Menegaux, the managing director of the Paris tourist office Paris je t’aime, to help you discover the best time to visit Paris, whether you’re ready to book now or are still dreaming about it.
So keep reading for expert advice, and remember Audrey Hepburn’s famous words: “Paris is always a good idea.”
Spring and fall are often considered the best times of year to visit Paris—and for good reason! You’ll enjoy fewer crowds and generally pleasant weather. But don’t let that stop you from exploring Paris outside those months. Personally, I visited in late August and still had an incredible time.
As Menegaux says, “Every season offers something special.” In fact, she suggests visiting multiple times to experience Paris in all its glory: winter for a festive Christmas vibe, spring for blooming beauty, summer for lively celebrations and autumn for rich cultural events.
Many may argue that summer—June, July and August—are the best times to visit Paris, with long sunny days and vibrant energy. But if you prefer to avoid the heat while still enjoying warm, pleasant weather, spring and fall are your ideal seasons. These months offer the perfect balance: sunny days without the scorching temperatures, making them widely regarded as the best time to visit Paris for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.
When I visited Paris in August 2022, I was pleasantly surprised by the weather as the city transitioned toward the cooler months. The temperature was just right—perfect for light sweaters during the day. I recall wearing a short black dress without feeling chilly. Overall, it’s about your preferred weather when traveling and how much heat and cold you can or can’t take.
January may not be the best time to visit Paris for most tourists, with its mix of rain, snow and mid-winter chill. But if you can brave the cold, you’ll have the chance to slip into cozy cafés and experience events like Paris Fashion Week and the world’s oldest circus in Paris at the now 171-year-old amphitheater Cirque d’Hiver Bouglione. Plus, flights are often cheaper, making it a great time to save on your trip!
February brings more chilly weather, which may not appeal to winter haters, but spending a romantic weekend getaway in the City of Love on Valentine’s Day? Now that’s something special. After all, what better place to celebrate romance than Paris?
March marks the beginning of the best time to visit Paris as the snow melts and the weather turns refreshingly cool. It’s the perfect moment to explore the city’s outdoor charm, perhaps with a serene cruise down the Seine as spring slowly makes its entrance.
If you’re a fan of spring, April is a lovely time to visit Paris. The crowds are still manageable, making it the perfect moment to enjoy popular events like the Paris Marathon and the vibrant Foire du Trône fair.
In May, Paris offers delightful weather with an average temperature of 60°F. Take advantage of these pleasant days by attending iconic events like the French Open or the renowned Jazz Festival, where the city’s musical spirit comes alive.
June kicks off summer in Paris with temperatures ranging from 57°F to 73°F—ideal for enjoying the city’s parks and outdoor activities. Why not celebrate Mother’s Day in Paris or catch the enchanting Open-Air Opera Festival while soaking in the Parisian summer vibe? You can even catch the French Open, which starts in late May and continues for two weeks. In 2025, the tennis tournament takes place on May 25 to June 8.
Visiting Paris in July offers long, sun-filled days, warm to hot temperatures and only a few rainy spells. According to the Paris Discovery Guide, top spots this month include Disneyland Paris and a scenic day trip to Monet’s House and gardens in Giverny. If you’re in Paris in mid-July, don’t miss the vibrant Bastille Day celebrations on the 14th, featuring a spectacular parade and breathtaking fireworks!
In August, Paris takes on a more tranquil vibe as many Parisians head out on vacation. The warm, sunny weather is perfect for visiting iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower or catching an outdoor movie under the stars, soaking up the city’s quieter side.
Paris in September often surprises visitors with its warm days, making it an ideal time to explore the city. It’s also when Parisians return from their summer holidays for “la rentrée,” bringing the city back to life. For a unique treat, plan your visit around the third week of September, when the city hosts European Heritage Days. During this weekend, Paris’ most iconic monuments open their doors to the public, including rare access to places like the Élysée Palace.
As October rolls in, expect cooler temperatures, with the occasional rainy or windy day. Yet, it’s a magical time to experience Paris in full autumn splendor, with vibrant late-blooming flowers brightening the city parks. This is the perfect moment to embark on a Versailles bike tour, learn to bake croissants or indulge in a delightful chocolate and pastry tour.
November in Paris offers a subtle reminder that winter is just around the corner, but you’ll still catch glimpses of sunny, crisp days. The city’s trees hold onto their green leaves, mixing with warm amber hues, making it a beautiful time for a stroll through the Tuileries Garden—ideally after a visit to the Louvre, of course.
And who could resist the charm of Christmas in Paris? Although the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, the city’s festive spirit comes alive. Experience the magic of the season by watching the Paris Opera Ballet perform “The Nutcracker,” or wandering through charming Christmas markets, like the ones near the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame, where you’ll find everything from holiday treats to handmade gifts.
According to Menegaux, “June is traditionally the month welcoming the most visitors in Paris, followed by September and October.” Visiting Paris during high season can be a bit of a double-edged sword. While the city buzzes with energy and excitement, it can also mean higher prices and larger crowds, turning trips to iconic attractions like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre into more of an adventure. You might also find it challenging to snag a reservation at popular restaurants, as the influx of tourists makes dining out a competitive endeavor.
November through March is low season in Paris, while Menegaux notes that July and August are low season for business travel, despite leisure tourism staying active during this time. Now why might low season be the best time to visit Paris? This time may offer a colder Paris experience (far from being the best to visit for warm-weather enthusiasts), low season in Paris means fewer crowds, lower prices and shorter lines. This is something to consider if you’re looking to save money and save time visiting.
When it comes to deciding how many days to spend in Paris as a first-time visitor, there’s truly no right or wrong answer—it all depends on your travel goals. Some travelers believe that four days is ideal, while others find that three days is just enough to soak in the city’s magic. Keep in mind, though, that your timing matters: if you’re visiting during high season, you may want to plan for a longer stay to navigate the larger crowds. Conversely, if you’re exploring in the low season, you might discover that you can check off all the attractions on your list in less time than you expected.
The cheapest time to visit Paris is during the low season, specifically from mid-November to mid-December. Not only will you avoid the hustle and bustle of summer, but you’ll also find more affordable prices. While you might miss some big events like Paris Fashion Week in September or the French Open, this quiet period can still be a magical time to explore the city at your own pace.
For scoring cheaper flights to Paris, there are a few strategies to keep in mind. Expedia suggests booking flights on Sundays for the best deals, and I personally use Google Flights in incognito mode to track prices. To snag the best fares, consider budget airlines, try to book your flight tickets months in advance and stay flexible with your travel dates.
As for accommodations, the low season brings even more savings when looking for the best time to book a hotel. According to Kayak, a metasearch engine for travel services, November is the cheapest month to stay in Paris, with prices dropping by an average of 19%. On the flip side, July is the most expensive month, with prices soaring by 58%.
What to pack for your trip to Paris really depends on how long you’re staying and when you’ll be there. Besides your usual clothing, Menegaux has some essential tips: make sure to bring comfortable shoes for all the walking you’ll do and a reusable water bottle—you’ll find over 1,200 fountains throughout the city where you can refill it.
If you’re visiting in spring or planning a fall getaway, consider packing a light trench coat or leather jacket to navigate the transitional weather. For winter trips, don’t forget a warm wool hat and gloves to keep cozy. Overall, it’s wise to prepare for anything with layers, water-resistant shoes and an umbrella, since Paris weather can change in the blink of an eye.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Paris offers a wide array of fun activities and attractions, especially for those who love to celebrate and explore. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone. Here are some must-try experiences tailored to different tastes:
“There is no bad time to visit Paris,” says Menegaux. “All major attractions and museums in Paris are open all year round.” This means that no matter what month you decide is the best time to visit Paris, you’ll still find hidden gems throughout the city to explore.
About the experts
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At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experience where appropriate. For this piece on the best time to visit Paris, Associate Editor Mariah Thomas tapped her experience as a seasoned traveler of more than 10 countries and visitor of Paris, while receiving expert insight from Corinne Menegaux, the managing director of the tourist office Paris je t’aime. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.
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