Paris in August: The Ultimate Travel Guide for Weather, Events, and Activities

Paris in August is a unique experience. While many Parisians leave the city for their summer holidays, the streets, terraces, and parks remain lively with tourists enjoying the warmest month of the year. If you’re planning a trip to Paris in August, here’s everything you need to know—from the weather and what to wear to special events and insider tips.

The holiday golden weeks end on Assumption Day, August 15th. These first two weeks are when we French go on vacation. We once worked during this period, and we were almost alone in the office! Many locals leave Paris for vacation. The good part is that there’s much less traffic on the roads and fewer people in the metro, making it much easier to get around!

Why Visit Paris in August?

Visiting Paris in August has its pros and cons, but if you know what to expect, it can be an amazing experience.

Pros:

Fewer Parisians, meaning a more relaxed city and sometimes shorter queues for major attractions.
Many summer events and outdoor festivals.
Warm weather, perfect for long evenings on terraces and picnics in the parks.
Less traffic and easier access to bike rentals, making it a great time for exploring on two wheels.

Cons:

Some small shops, restaurants, and bakeries may be closed, especially in residential neighborhoods.
It can get quite hot, especially in the afternoons.
August is peak tourist season, so popular attractions can still be busy.

Paris Weather in August: What to Expect

August is the hottest month in Paris, so be prepared for warm and sunny days. Here’s what you can expect:

Average temperature: 17°C to 27°C (63°F to 81°F)
Rainfall: Around 6-7 days of light rain, but mostly dry and sunny.
Daylight: About 14 hours of daylight.
Humidity: It can feel humid, especially after occasional summer showers.

Heatwaves are not uncommon in August, with some days reaching 35°C (95°F) or higher.

⚠️ Even at night, it can be hot in Paris in August. We recommend booking accommodation with AC—though it’s quite rare! Most major hotel chains have it, but if you plan on staying in a small hotel or an Airbnb, don’t count on it. If it’s not clearly stated, it likely doesn’t have it!

How to Dress for Paris in August

Since August is hot, lightweight and breathable clothing is essential. Here’s what to pack:

Essentials for Daytime:

Light and airy outfits: cotton or linen dresses, shorts, skirts, or lightweight trousers.
Comfortable walking shoes (sandals, sneakers, or espadrilles).
A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against the sun.
A reusable water bottle – staying hydrated is key!

Evening Wear:

A light jacket or shawl for cooler evenings.
A stylish dress or linen shirt for dining out.
Closed-toe shoes for a more elegant look in upscale restaurants.

Other Essentials:

An umbrella or light rain jacket (just in case of a summer shower).
A foldable fan – very useful in the Paris Métro if it’s a hot day!

Special Events & Holidays in Paris in August

August is full of summer festivals and events, making it a great time to experience Paris in a different way.

Assumption Day (August 15th) A Catholic holiday in France, this day is celebrated with a grand mass at Notre-Dame Cathedral and other churches. While it’s a public holiday, most museums and attractions remain open.

Paris Plages (Paris Beaches) From early July to late August, the banks of the Seine and the Bassin de la Villette are transformed into artificial beaches with lounge chairs, palm trees, and activities like beach volleyball and kayaking. It’s a fun way to cool off in the city!

Open-Air Cinema at Parc de la Villette A fantastic experience for film lovers! Throughout August, Parc de la Villette hosts free outdoor movie screenings. Bring a picnic and enjoy a film under the stars.

We went many times while living in Paris, but we don’t recommend it for visitors. It is very far from the city center and takes forever to reach by metro. The movie starts at night, quite late—after 10 PM—which means it can end after the metro closes. In that case, your only option to get back to the hotel would be a taxi. Lastly, while the park itself is safe, the surrounding area is not, with many hard dr*g-related activities. For these reasons, we recommend avoiding it, especially on a first trip to Paris.

Classical Music Festival at La Sainte-Chapelle A magical way to enjoy classical music inside one of the most stunning gothic chapels in the world.

Rock en Seine Festival If you love music, this three-day rock festival at Domaine National de Saint-Cloud (just outside Paris) is a must-see. Major international artists perform every year.

Unique Things to Do in Paris in August

Aside from the usual must-visit landmarks, here are some unique experiences to enjoy in August:

Picnic in the Parks
- The Luxembourg Gardens, Champ de Mars, and Parc Monceau are perfect for a picnic.
- Grab fresh baguettes, cheese, and fruit from a local market for the full Parisian experience.
Take a Seine River Cruise at Sunset
- With warm summer evenings, a sunset or nighttime cruise along the Seine is unforgettable.
Visit Château de Versailles Early or Late
- August is peak season for Versailles, so arrive early or visit in the late afternoon to avoid crowds.
- The Musical Fountains Show continues throughout summer, adding an extra touch of magic to the gardens.
Escape the Heat in Lesser-Known Museums
- The underground Catacombs of Paris provide a cool retreat on hot days.
- The Musée de l’Orangerie is quieter and features Monet’s stunning Water Lilies.
Bike Around Paris in the Evening
- Rent a Vélib’ bike and explore areas like Île de la Cité, Île Saint-Louis, and the Marais when it’s cooler.

Final Tips for Visiting Paris in August

Book accommodations early. August is a busy travel month, so hotels and apartments can fill up quickly.
Make restaurant reservations. Many restaurants close for summer vacation, so check ahead to avoid disappointment.
Visit major attractions early or late. Midday crowds can be intense at places like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre, so aim for early morning or evening visits.
Use public transport wisely. The Paris Métro can be hot in August. If it’s too warm, consider buses or walking instead.
Stay hydrated. Bring a refillable water bottle and use the free Wallace fountains found throughout the city.
Expect a different pace. Some areas may feel quieter due to local businesses being on holiday, but that can be part of the charm!

Conclusion

Paris in August is a mix of warm summer days, lively festivals, and a slightly slower pace due to local vacations. Whether you’re enjoying a Seine river cruise, watching a film under the stars, or exploring charming neighborhoods by bike, there’s plenty to love about Paris in the summer. With the right preparation and an open mind, your August trip to Paris can be unforgettable. Bon voyage!