Paris in Spring: My Experience & Insider Tips for a Perfect Trip

Spring is, without a doubt, one of the best times to visit Paris. The city shakes off the winter chill, the cherry blossoms bloom, and Parisians start enjoying their terraces again. As someone who lives in France and adores Paris, I always recommend visiting in spring. In this post, I’ll share my personal experience of exploring Paris during this season, what kind of weather to expect, and some insider tips to make the most of your trip.

Paris in Spring: The Perfect Season

Spring in Paris, from March to May, is magical. The city slowly wakes up from its grey winter slumber, and by mid-April, everything is in full bloom. Parks and gardens transform with vibrant flowers, and the days become pleasantly longer. It’s also a great time to visit before the summer crowds take over.

I’ve walked along the Seine in early spring with a light jacket and a coffee in hand, and it’s one of the best ways to enjoy the city without the summer heat or winter gloom. The café terraces start filling up, and there’s a renewed energy in the air. It’s Paris at its most romantic and lively.

What Kind of Weather to Expect

Spring weather in Paris can be unpredictable, but it’s generally mild and pleasant. Here’s a rough guide:

• March: 8-15°C (46-59°F). Still chilly, with occasional rain, but some sunny days. Layers and a good coat are necessary.
• April: 10-18°C (50-64°F). A mix of sunshine and showers. You might need an umbrella, but you’ll also enjoy crisp blue skies.
• May: 13-22°C (55-72°F). The warmest spring month, often feeling like early summer. Outdoor dining and picnics become ideal.

Rain is common in Paris, but don’t let that stop you. A good raincoat or a compact umbrella is all you need to keep exploring. Plus, Paris in the rain is incredibly charming—just think of all those romantic movie scenes!

The Best Things to Do in Paris in Spring

1. Enjoy the Blossoms in Parks and Gardens

One of the highlights of spring in Paris is the cherry blossoms. Some of the best places to see them include:

• Jardin des Plantes – A peaceful botanical garden with gorgeous magnolias and cherry blossoms.
• Parc de Sceaux – A little outside of Paris, but absolutely worth it for its dreamy cherry blossom orchard.
• Square Jean XXIII (near Notre-Dame) – A lovely hidden spot with pink blossoms framing the cathedral.
• Trocadéro Gardens – For that perfect Eiffel Tower + cherry blossom shot.

Insider tip: If you’re visiting for the cherry blossoms, mid to late April is the best time to catch them in full bloom.

2. Picnic Like a Parisian

Spring is the best time for a Parisian-style picnic. Grab some fresh baguettes, cheese, strawberries, and a bottle of wine from a local market and head to:

• Champ de Mars (in front of the Eiffel Tower)
• Jardin du Luxembourg (great atmosphere and comfortable chairs)
• Canal Saint-Martin (trendy and more local)
• Parc des Buttes-Chaumont (hilly, scenic, and a bit less touristy)

I personally love sitting along the Seine, near Île de la Cité, watching the boats pass by while enjoying a picnic.

3. Explore Paris by Bike

Spring is perfect for cycling around the city. The weather is mild, and Paris has great bike lanes. Rent a Vélib’ (Paris’ public bike system) and cycle along the Seine, through Le Marais, or to the Bois de Boulogne for a nature escape.

4. Visit the Springtime Exhibitions and Festivals

Spring is an excellent season for cultural events in Paris:

• Nuit des Musées (May) – Free museum entry for one night, perfect for art lovers.
• Roland-Garros (late May – early June) – If you love tennis, try to get tickets!
• Foire du Trône (April-May) – A huge funfair with rides and food stalls.

5. Have a Coffee on a Parisian Terrace

Spring means the return of the iconic Parisian terraces. Whether it’s Café de Flore in Saint-Germain or a hidden gem in Montmartre, sitting outside with a coffee and people-watching is a must.

Insider tip: In Paris, you pay for the experience, so don’t rush your drink—sit back, relax, and take in the atmosphere.

Spring Travel Tips for Paris

• Pack layers. The weather changes quickly, so bring a mix of warm and light clothing.
• Book early. Spring is popular but not as crowded as summer, so hotels and restaurants still get booked fast.
• Be prepared for rain. A small umbrella is your best friend.
• Enjoy seasonal foods. Try fresh asparagus, strawberries, and spring pastries like tarte aux fraises.
• Wake up early for iconic spots. The Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Sacré-Cœur are much quieter in the morning.

Final Thoughts

Paris in spring is my personal favorite. It’s vibrant, fresh, and full of life, with just the right balance of good weather and fewer crowds. Whether you’re strolling through gardens, enjoying a coffee on a terrace, or cycling along the Seine, this season brings out the best of the city. If you’re planning a trip to Paris, spring is a perfect time to experience it like a local.

Have you been to Paris in the spring? Let me know your favorite experiences in the comments!