Why July is a Great Time to Visit Paris: Events, Tips & More

Paris in July is vibrant, lively, and full of summer energy. With long sunny days, warm temperatures, and an exciting calendar of events, it’s one of the best times to visit. While the city gets busy with tourists, it still offers unique experiences, from open-air festivals to fireworks over the Eiffel Tower. If you’re planning a trip to Paris in July, here’s everything you need to know—from the weather and what to wear to special events and insider tips.

Why Visit Paris in July?

July is peak summer in Paris, bringing warm temperatures, extended daylight hours, and an endless array of cultural events. It’s the perfect time to enjoy Paris’ outdoor attractions, relax at a terrace café, or take a sunset cruise on the Seine. While many Parisians leave the city for summer vacations, the capital remains lively with tourists and summer festivals.

Paris Weather in July: What to Expect

July is one of the warmest months in Paris, with plenty of sunshine and occasional heatwaves. Here’s what you can expect:

• Average temperature: 16°C to 27°C (61°F to 81°F)
• Rainfall: Around 6-8 days of light showers
• Daylight: About 16 hours of daylight

While the weather is generally warm, some days can be scorching, with temperatures exceeding 30°C (86°F). The city’s buildings tend to retain heat, making the evenings warm as well. Rain is less frequent but can come in short, unexpected bursts.

⚠️ Even at night, it can be hot in Paris in July. 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!

And yes, I know it rained a lot during the 2024 Olympics in Paris. Believe it or not, it was the rainiest July of all time! (At least since records have been kept, about a hundred years ago.)

How to Dress for Paris in July

Since July is hot, packing lightweight and breathable clothing is essential. Here’s what to bring:

Essentials for Daytime:

• Light and airy fabrics (cotton, linen, or breathable synthetics)
• Comfortable walking sandals or sneakers
• A hat and sunglasses for sun protection
• A small, reusable water bottle (hydration is key!)

Evening Wear:

• A stylish dress, light blouse, or linen shirt for dining out
• Light cardigan or shawl (for cooler nights or indoor air conditioning)
• Casual loafers or dressy sandals

Other Essentials:

• Sunscreen (SPF 30+ recommended)
• A compact umbrella for occasional rain showers
• A crossbody bag to keep belongings secure

Special Events & Holidays in Paris in July

July is packed with cultural and national events, making it a dynamic time to visit. Here are the highlights:

July 14: Bastille Day (Fête Nationale)

Bastille Day is France’s national holiday, marking the anniversary of the French Revolution. The celebrations in Paris are spectacular and include:

• Morning military parade on the Champs-Élysées, attended by the French President.
• Free concerts and events throughout the city.
• Fireworks at the Eiffel Tower, an unforgettable spectacle best viewed from Trocadéro, Champ de Mars, or a Seine cruise.

Be aware that this is a public holiday, so some businesses may close, and the metro can be crowded near major event locations.

Installations are set up on the Champs-Élysées and Concorde Square a few days in advance. Some areas may be closed, so it’s best to plan your visit for another time if possible.

What we (and, I believe, all Parisians) love most on this day is the Firefighters’ Ball (Bal des Pompiers). Many fire stations in Paris are transformed into festive venues with music, dancing, food, and drinks. It’s hugely popular, and you may have to queue for a few hours to get in.

Paris Plages (Paris Beaches)

From mid-July to mid-August, sections of the Seine River and the Bassin de la Villette are transformed into artificial beaches with lounge chairs, palm trees, and water sports. It’s a fun way to relax and experience a different side of Paris.

Tour de France Finish Line (Late July)

One of the world’s most famous cycling races concludes on the Champs-Élysées, attracting thousands of fans. If you’re in Paris at the right time, watching the final sprint is an exciting experience.

But if you plan on wandering on the Champs-Élysées, it’s better to plan it

Open-Air Cinema at Parc de la Villette

Every summer, the Cinéma en Plein Air festival offers free outdoor film screenings at Parc de la Villette. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and enjoy a movie 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 & Jazz Concerts in Parisian Parks

• The Festival Chopin in Orangerie du Parc de Bagatelle is perfect for classical music lovers.
• The Paris Jazz Festival in Parc Floral brings amazing jazz performances in a scenic botanical garden.

Unique Things to Do in Paris in July

Aside from the usual must-see attractions (Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Montmartre, etc.), here are some unique experiences perfect for July:

1. Take a Seine River Cruise at Sunset

With the long summer days, a sunset cruise offers stunning golden-hour views of Paris’ iconic landmarks, from Notre-Dame to the Eiffel Tower.

2. Enjoy Rooftop Bars and Terraces

Summer nights in Paris are perfect for rooftop dining. Some of the best spots include:

• Le Perchoir (trendy rooftop with a great cocktail selection)
• Terrass’’ Hôtel (offers panoramic views over Montmartre)
• Sequoia at Kimpton St Honoré (elegant rooftop with a view of the Eiffel Tower)

3. Go on a Nighttime Stroll

The warm evenings make July the ideal time for a nighttime walk. Stroll along the Seine, explore Île de la Cité, or experience the twinkling Eiffel Tower lights every hour after sunset.

4. Escape to Château de Versailles Early in the Morning

Versailles gets crowded in summer, so visiting early in the morning is best. The gardens are in full bloom, and the Musical Fountains Show adds to the experience.

5. Discover the Coulée Verte (Paris’ Elevated Park)

A lesser-known gem, this tree-lined walkway on an old railway viaduct is similar to New York’s High Line and offers a peaceful escape from the busy streets.

Final Tips for Visiting Paris in July

• Book accommodations early. July is peak tourist season, and hotels can fill up fast.
• Stay hydrated. Parisian summers can be hot, so always carry a water bottle.
• Use public transport. The Metro is your best friend for avoiding long walks in the heat.
• Try to visit major landmarks early in the day to avoid crowds and peak heat hours.
• Be prepared for occasional strikes. They’re common in France and can affect public transport schedules.

Conclusion

Paris in July is a magical experience filled with sunshine, festivals, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re enjoying the Bastille Day fireworks, sipping wine on a rooftop terrace, or watching the Tour de France finish, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. With the right preparation, your summer trip to Paris will be an unforgettable adventure. Bon voyage!