Traveling to Paris in May: A Guide to the Best Experiences, Weather, and Events

Paris in May is a dream. Maybe our favorite month of the whole year, and especially early-may: you will understand why a bit later. The city is alive with springtime energy, the gardens are in full bloom, and the café terraces are buzzing with Parisians enjoying the warmer days. May is also a month of celebrations, holidays, and unique cultural events, making it one of the best times to visit. If you’re planning a trip to Paris in May, here’s everything you need to know—from the weather and how to dress to special events and unique things to do.

Why Visit Paris in May?

May is one of the most pleasant months to visit Paris. The days are longer, the temperature is mild, and the summer crowds haven’t fully arrived yet. The city’s parks and gardens, like Jardin du Luxembourg and Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, are at their most beautiful, making it a perfect time for leisurely strolls.

In addition, May in Paris is filled with public holidays, cultural events, and festivals, offering visitors a chance to experience the city like a local.

Paris Weather in May: What to Expect

May marks the transition from spring to early summer, with mild and pleasant temperatures. Here’s what you can expect:

• Average temperature: 11°C to 20°C (52°F to 68°F)
• Rainfall: Around 9-10 days of light rain
• Daylight: About 15 hours of daylight

While May is generally a warm month, the weather can be unpredictable. Some days may feel summery with temperatures reaching the mid-20s°C (mid-70s°F), while others may be chilly, especially in the evenings. Occasional showers are common, but they’re usually short-lived.

How to Dress for Paris in May

Since the weather in May can vary, packing a mix of spring and early summer clothes is a good idea. Here’s what to bring:

Essentials for Daytime:

• Light layers: A mix of t-shirts, blouses, and light sweaters
• A trench coat or lightweight jacket for cooler mornings and evenings
• Comfortable walking shoes (sneakers or stylish flats)
• Sunglasses and sunscreen for sunny days

Evening Wear:

• A stylish blazer or cardigan for dining out
• Dressy flats or ankle boots for a polished look
• A scarf (a Parisian staple!) for added warmth and style

Other Essentials:

• An umbrella or a small, packable raincoat for occasional showers
• A crossbody bag to keep your belongings safe while exploring

Dressing in layers is key—Parisian weather in May can shift from warm to chilly within hours.

Special Events & Holidays in Paris in May

May in France includes several public holidays and cultural events, which can impact business hours and transportation. It is the month where we, french, work the less 😅. Here are the key dates to keep in mind:

May 1st: Labour Day (Fête du Travail)

May 1st is Labour Day, a national holiday in France. Most shops, museums, and businesses will be closed, and public transport may run on a reduced schedule. However, you’ll see street vendors selling Lily of the Valley (Muguet) flowers, a French tradition symbolizing luck and happiness. If there is one national holiday to rule them all, it is the 1st of May. Usually museum or shop can stay open during national holidays but they still close for labour day.

There is always a parade on this day, usually starting at République Square and passing through Bastille Square before reaching Nation Square. It takes place on the east side of Paris, where tourists don’t usually go, so it shouldn’t be a concern for you.

While many attractions are closed, you can still enjoy the day by:

• Walking along the Seine and admiring the springtime views
• Exploring the parks and gardens, which remain open
• Visiting Montmartre, which is lively even on holidays

May 8th: Victory in Europe Day (The German Surrender)

This holiday marks the end of World War II in Europe and is celebrated with ceremonies across France. The main event in Paris takes place at the Arc de Triomphe, where the French President lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

While some businesses may close, most museums and attractions remain open, making it a great day to visit cultural sites.

In France, we don’t call it the “Victory in Europe Day”. We use the term “The German Surrender”.

Night of Museums (Nuit des Musées)

Held on a Saturday in mid-May, this event allows visitors to enjoy free entry to many museums across Paris, some of which stay open until late at night. It’s a magical experience to explore the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, or Centre Pompidou after dark.

As you can imagine, there is always a long queue for this experience. We gave it a try, but waiting in line for three hours at 1 a.m. was just too much for us.

Here’s the official website for the Night of Museums: nuitdesmusees.culture.gouv.fr

French Open (Roland-Garros)

One of the biggest sporting events in France, the Roland-Garros tennis tournament usually starts in late May and runs into early June. If you’re a tennis fan, consider getting tickets to watch a match at the famous clay courts.

Fun fact: The last time a French player won the tournament was in 1983, with Yannick Noah. He later became a singer, and I believe he is now more famous for his music than for his victory!

Jazz Festival at Saint-Germain-des-Prés

For music lovers, the Saint-Germain-des-Prés Jazz Festival is a must. Taking place in late May, this festival features live jazz performances in historic venues, churches, and open-air spaces around the Left Bank.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a district you might want to visit, whether to admire its beautiful church or enjoy a coffee at the renowned Café de Flore.

Why We Love Paris in May, Especially Early May (The Insider Tip)

Parisians usually leave Paris in early May. Here’s why: the weather in Paris isn’t great during winter and early summer, and by May, we’ve had enough! There are several national holidays in early May, allowing us to take an extended break using only a few paid vacation days. We even have a name for this: les ponts de mai (May’s bridges). The expression “faire le pont” (“to make the bridge”) means taking an extra day off between a public holiday and the weekend.

For these reasons, many Parisians flee the city in early May, making it the perfect time to visit!

Later in the month, wedding season begins. Wedding ceremonies are typically planned from mid-May to September to take advantage of good weather. This is yet another reason Parisians leave the city—weddings are often held in their hometowns, and very few Parisians are actually born in Paris.

Unique Things to Do in Paris in May

Aside from the usual must-visit landmarks (Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Notre-Dame, etc.), here are some unique experiences to enjoy in May:

1. Picnic in the Parks

Parisian parks are at their best in May, making it the perfect time for a picnic. Some top spots include:

• Jardin des Tuileries (near the Louvre)
• Square du Vert-Galant (on the island, near Notre Dame cathedral)
• Champs de Mars (great view of the Eiffel Tower)

Grab some baguettes, cheese, wine, and fresh fruit from a local market and enjoy a leisurely afternoon like a true Parisian.

When we were living in Paris, we often went to Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. It’s very popular among locals, with a lake and a waterfall, but we wouldn’t recommend it for visitors. First, because it’s quite far in the northeast. Second, the surrounding area isn’t the safest (due to dr*g-related activity).

2. Visit the Château de Versailles Gardens

While Versailles is stunning year-round, May is an excellent time to visit because the gardens are in full bloom. The Musical Fountains Show takes place on select days, where fountains dance to classical music.

3. Explore the Lesser-Known Parisian Neighborhoods

• Canal Saint-Martin: A hip area with charming cafés, boutiques, and scenic waterways
• Belleville: Home to vibrant street art and panoramic views from Parc de Belleville
• Rue Cler: A lively market street perfect for gourmet food shopping

4. Take a Seine River Cruise at Sunset

With the longer daylight hours, a sunset cruise on the Seine is a magical experience. You’ll pass by famous landmarks like the Notre-Dame Cathedral, Eiffel Tower, and Musée d’Orsay, all beautifully illuminated in the golden hour.

5. Enjoy an Open-Air Market

May is a great time to explore the city’s outdoor markets, where you’ll find fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delicious street food. Some great markets to visit include:

• Marché des Enfants Rouges (the oldest covered market in Paris)
• Marché Bastille (a huge open-air market with local specialties)
• Marché d’Aligre (a lively mix of flea market and food stalls)

Final Tips for Visiting Paris in May

• Book accommodations in advance. May is a popular month for travelers, so hotels and rentals can fill up quickly.
• Check holiday schedules. While most attractions remain open on holidays, some may have reduced hours.
• Use public transport. The Paris Métro is efficient and can help you navigate the city easily.
• Learn a few French phrases. A simple “Bonjour” (hello) and “Merci” (thank you) can go a long way in making your trip smoother.

Conclusion

Paris in May is a blend of blooming gardens, cultural festivities, and perfect sightseeing weather. Whether you’re admiring the city’s landmarks, enjoying a jazz concert, or picnicking by the Seine, you’ll find that May offers a little bit of everything. With the right preparation and an open mind, your trip to Paris in May can be a truly unforgettable experience. Bon voyage!