Paris in November: Weather, Must-See Events, and Expert Travel Tips

Paris in November has a charm of its own. The summer crowds are gone, the holiday lights start appearing, and the city takes on a cozy, intimate atmosphere. While it may not be the first month that comes to mind for visiting the French capital, November has plenty of hidden perks—fewer tourists, cultural events, and a Parisian ambiance that feels more authentic. If you’re planning a trip to Paris in November, here’s everything you need to know—from the weather and how to dress to special events and insider tips.

Why Visit Paris in November?

November in Paris is perfect for those who want to experience the city without the high-season crowds. You can enjoy museums and landmarks with shorter lines, experience Parisian café culture at its coziest, and witness the first signs of holiday magic as Christmas markets begin to open later in the month. It’s also an ideal time for food lovers, with hearty French dishes and wine tasting being particularly enjoyable in the colder weather.

Paris Weather in November: What to Expect

November marks the transition from autumn to winter, bringing cooler temperatures and occasional rain. Here’s what you can expect:

Average temperature: 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F)
Rainfall: Around 9-11 days of rain (mostly light showers, but some heavier rains are possible)
Daylight: About 9 hours of daylight (sunset around 5:00 PM)

Expect some grey days, but Paris in the mist or rain has its own special atmosphere—just imagine strolling along the Seine with the streetlights reflecting off the wet cobblestones.

How to Dress for Paris in November

November is chilly, so layering is key. Here’s what to pack:

Essentials for Daytime:

Warm sweaters and long-sleeve tops
A waterproof coat or a stylish wool coat
Comfortable, waterproof walking shoes or ankle boots
A scarf, gloves, and a hat for extra warmth
An umbrella for rainy days

Evening Wear:

A chic coat for dinners out
Dressy ankle boots or stylish flats
A sweater dress or tailored pants with a cozy sweater

Other Essentials:

Moisturizer and lip balm (the cold can dry out your skin!)
A crossbody bag to keep your hands free while exploring

Special Events & Holidays in Paris in November

November 1st: All Saints’ Day (La Toussaint)

A public holiday in France, this day is dedicated to remembering loved ones. Many locals visit cemeteries, with Père Lachaise being particularly atmospheric. While some businesses may close, most museums and attractions remain open.

November 11th: Armistice Day (Jour de l’Armistice)

This national holiday marks the end of World War I. The main event takes place at the Arc de Triomphe, where the French President lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Most museums and attractions remain open.

Beaujolais Nouveau Day (Third Thursday of November)

A highlight for wine lovers! The arrival of the new Beaujolais wine is celebrated across France, including in Parisian wine bars, where you can taste the fresh, fruity red wine of the season.

To be honest, Beaujolais Nouveau always tastes awful. You can always say ‘it tastes like banana’—because it does! Every young wine has that flavor. I feel like it’s more of an excuse to drink than a real wine-tasting event.

Christmas Lights and Markets Begin

By mid-to-late November, Paris starts transforming for the holidays. Some of the most famous Christmas lights include:

Champs-Élysées: Stunning holiday lights stretching from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe
Place Vendôme: One of the most elegant spots in the city for festive decorations
Le Marais & Montmartre: Boutique-lined streets with beautiful seasonal displays

Christmas markets also begin to pop up in late November. The most famous include:

La Magie de Noël at the Tuileries Garden (mid-November to early January)
Saint-Germain-des-Prés Christmas Market (late November to December)
Notre-Dame Christmas Market (usually from the last weekend of November)

Unique Things to Do in Paris in November

1. Visit Museums Without the Crowds

November is one of the best months for museum lovers. The Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and Musée de l’Orangerie are much less crowded, allowing you to take your time admiring the masterpieces.

2. Experience Cozy Café Culture

Paris is famous for its cafés, and in November, they are the perfect place to escape the cold. Grab a seat at classic spots like Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots and warm up with a chocolat chaud (hot chocolate) or a vin chaud (mulled wine).

3. Enjoy a Seine River Cruise at Night

With the early sunsets, a night cruise on the Seine lets you see Paris beautifully illuminated. Landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and Pont Alexandre III look stunning against the night sky.

4. Indulge in Seasonal French Cuisine

November is a great time to try hearty French dishes:

Onion soup (Soupe à l’oignon)
Beef bourguignon
Duck confit
Raclette and fondue (perfect for colder days!)

5. Visit the Catacombs for a Spooky Experience

The underground Catacombs of Paris take on an even eerier feel in November, making it the perfect month for a chilling yet fascinating visit.

6. Explore Covered Passages

Paris’ historic covered passages, like Galerie Vivienne and Passage des Panoramas, offer charming shopping, cozy cafes, and a unique glimpse into old Paris—ideal for rainy days.

Final Tips for Visiting Paris in November

Check opening hours. Some attractions and restaurants have shorter hours in the off-season.
Dress warmly. Parisian buildings are well-heated, but you’ll need layers for the cold streets.
Book indoor activities. Consider cooking classes, wine tastings, or even an opera at Palais Garnier.
Take advantage of lower prices. Flights and hotels tend to be more affordable in November compared to peak seasons.

Conclusion

Paris in November may not be the first choice for many travelers, but it offers a truly authentic experience. From cozy cafes and fewer crowds to wine festivals and the early holiday magic, the city’s charm shines in unexpected ways. Whether you’re here for the museums, the food, or the ambiance, November in Paris is a unique and unforgettable time to visit. Bon voyage!