Paris Through the Seasons: The Best (and Worst) Times to Visit

Paris is a city that charms visitors year-round, but choosing the right time to visit can make a huge difference in your experience. Having lived here for years and explored the city in all seasons, I’ve come to appreciate the subtle shifts in atmosphere, crowds, and weather. So, when is the best time to visit Paris? And just as importantly, when should you avoid coming? Here’s my take, with a few insider tips to make the most of your trip.

The Best Times to Visit Paris

Spring: April to June

Springtime in Paris is simply magical. The city shakes off its winter chill, and Parisians start to spend more time outdoors. If you visit in April, you’ll see cherry blossoms blooming around Notre-Dame and in Parc de Sceaux, while May brings pleasant temperatures, ideal for wandering through Montmartre or picnicking by the Seine.

Pros:

• Mild weather (temperatures range from 12°C to 22°C)
• Parks and gardens in full bloom
• Fewer tourists compared to summer
• Outdoor cafés start to buzz with life

Cons:

• Occasional rain showers (always carry a small umbrella)
• Easter holidays can bring more crowds

Insider Tip: Visit in early May when the city is alive with festivals, but before the summer crowds descend. Avoid coming around May 1st (Labor Day) as many attractions and shops close.

Early Fall: September to October

If I had to pick my favorite time to be in Paris, it would be early fall. September still has the warmth of summer but with far fewer tourists. October brings crisp air and gorgeous autumn colors in parks like Jardin du Luxembourg and Bois de Vincennes.

Pros:

• Perfect temperatures (15°C to 22°C in September, cooling down in October)
• Local life resumes after the August lull
• Beautiful fall foliage
• Easier to get restaurant reservations

Cons:

• Shorter daylight hours compared to summer
• Some rainy days in October

Insider Tip: September is a fantastic month for food lovers because restaurants are back in full swing, serving seasonal specialties like mushroom dishes and fig tarts.

Winter for a Cozy and Festive Paris: Mid-November to Early January

While Paris in winter isn’t for everyone, it has a charm of its own. The Christmas markets, festive lights, and cozy cafés make for a romantic trip. December is particularly lovely with decorations along the Champs-Élysées and ice skating rinks in iconic locations.

Pros:

• Fewer tourists (except around Christmas and New Year)
• Stunning holiday decorations
• Museums and attractions are less crowded

Cons:

• Cold and often rainy (temperatures range from 3°C to 8°C)
• Short days (sunset around 5 PM)
• Some attractions have shorter opening hours

Insider Tip: If you visit in December, make sure to check out Galeries Lafayette’s Christmas window displays—they are truly magical.

The Worst Times to Visit Paris

Peak Summer: July to Mid-August

This is hands-down my least favorite time to be in Paris. While the idea of a Parisian summer sounds romantic, the reality is different: sweltering heat, long lines at attractions, and a city that empties of its locals as they head on vacation.

Why It’s Not Ideal:

• Overcrowding: Popular spots like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre are packed.
• Heatwaves: Paris isn’t built for extreme heat, and air conditioning is rare.
• Closed Shops & Restaurants: Many local businesses shut down in August.

Insider Tip: If you must come in summer, aim for early July before Parisians leave, and book everything (hotels, tickets, restaurants) well in advance.

January & February: The Gloomiest Months

After the charm of the holidays fades, Paris in January and February can feel gray, damp, and uninspiring. The city slows down, and the cold, rainy days don’t help.

Why It’s Not Ideal:

• Weather: Cold, drizzly, and sometimes windy
• Lack of Atmosphere: It’s not the lively Paris you imagine
• Short Days: Less time for sightseeing

Insider Tip: If you do visit during this time, focus on indoor activities—spend afternoons in museums, warm up in tea salons, and enjoy the city’s excellent winter sales (les soldes) in January.

What Makes a Great Time to Visit Paris?

Your ideal time to visit depends on what you want from your trip:

• For good weather & fewer crowds: April-May or September-October
• For romance & festive vibes: December (but not too close to Christmas)
• For budget travel: Mid-January to February (cheaper hotels and flights)
• For the classic summer feel: Late June, but be prepared for some crowds

Final Tip: If flexibility allows, plan your trip around events or experiences. Want to see Paris in bloom? Come in spring. Love fashion? Visit during Fashion Week (but book well ahead). Looking for an authentic Parisian feel? Early fall is your best bet.

Paris is always a good idea—but choosing the right time can make it an unforgettable one. What’s your favorite season in Paris? Let me know in the comments!