Whether or not you should visit Paris at a particular time largely depends on why you want to go.
That said, for a chance of good weather, a relatively uncrowded city, and a lively vibe in the streets, the general consensus is that spring (May) or fall (September-October) is the optimal time to come and get good view of Paris in the sunshine.
Don’t forget to bring your iRoamly France travel eSIM, so you can check the weather in France for the day or the next few days to plan your trip.
Paris Weather: A Month-by-Month Guide
If you're looking at the calendar and thinking ‘when do we go to Paris?’, first, some context on the typical weather in Paris through the year. Here's an at-a-glance overview of average temperatures and rainfall for 2023:
Month | Average Maximum Temperature (°F/°C) | Average Minimum Temperature (°F/°C) | Average Precipitation (mm) |
January | 43 / 6 | 34 / 1 | 49.6 |
February | 45 / 7 | 34 / 1 | 41.6 |
March | 54 / 12 | 41 / 5 | 47.7 |
April | 61 / 16 | 45 / 7 | 53.7 |
May | 68 / 20 | 52 / 11 | 65 |
June | 73 / 23 | 57 / 14 | 54.6 |
July | 77 / 25 | 61 / 16 | 63.1 |
August | 77 / 25 | 61 / 16 | 43 |
September | 70 / 21 | 55 / 13 | 54.7 |
October | 61 / 16 | 48 / 9 | 59.7 |
November | 50 / 10 | 41 / 5 | 51.4 |
December | 45 / 7 | 36 / 2 | 58.7 |
For the latest weather trends, consult The Weather Channel and its detailed records of temperature and rainfall over the past ten days. These can be invaluable for ensuring your trip goes smoothly.
The Weather Channel's website: https://weather.com/
The Four Seasons of Paris
Spring in Paris (3-5)
As winter loosens its grip, Paris bursts into color, the air perfumed with flowers: a photographer’s dream. Café terraces open up, ideal for a little people-watching and light evenings.
What to do:
Walk in the Tuileries Garden: Parisians flood back to the city’s parks to sun themselves.
See the cherry-blossom at Parc de Sceaux: The orchard is particularly lovely when laden with pink flowers.
Wander the streets of Montmartre: The bohemian spirit that once defined Paris feels a little stronger with the arrival of spring.
Get lost at a street market or flea market: Browse spring vegetables, or flowers in bloom.
Ride a crazy rollercoaster at the Foire du Trône: The funfair features generations-old rides and popcorn of the sweet-and-salty variety.
What to eat:
Strawberries: Grab some at a market, or head to a picnic with a punnet in hand.
Macarons from Ladurée: The effervescent pastries are wonderful in the spring.
Asparagus: A star of the seasonal menu in Paris, showcasing all the bean’s wonderful attributes.
What to wear:
Layer comfortably, as you’ll probably have to peel them off by the sunny afternoon. Keep a light scarf and—all-important—rainproof jacket at the ready.
Spring in Paris is the perfect time to visit if you want to evade the summer peak-wise, and just see the city round into bloom gorgeousness.
Summer in Paris (6-8)
Paris in summer buzzes with activity. Multiple festivals are staged throughout the city, long days lend themselves to sightseeing, and making late-evening dinner bookings to watch the sun set. If you're traveling with the whole family, you'll find plenty to do, especially if you're exploring Paris with kids. The city offers many child-friendly activities, making it an ideal destination for families.
What to do:
Laze by the Seine: Stake out your teeny patch of grass for a sunny read or Parisian people-watching.
Paris Jazz Festival: This music festival is spread throughout the city’s various parks.
The Palace of Versailles: Not a crowded place at opening time; a well-timed morning admission is key to enjoying Versailles without hordes of visitors.
Bastille Day celebrations: Eat a croissant while watching a military parade, and catch all the fireworks.
Open-air cinema screenings: Free screenings take place in some of the city’s loveliest parks.
What to eat:
Ice-cream from Berthillon: A local institution, ice-cream on the Île Saint-Louis is a summer rite of passage.
Baguettes and cheese: There is no wrong way to eat this for lunch.
Seafood platters: Paris’s seafood raw materials hail from many of the country’s coastal locales.
What to wear:
It is sure to be sunny, with a touch of humidity lingering in the air. Wear some comfortable sandals and a big hat and you’ll fit the mold.
Parisians keep it touristy in the summer. Take note of the many open-air events and freebies, all open to the public.
Autumn in Paris (9-11)
Paris during fall is a photographer’s dream. The city feels quieter as the leaves turn golden – and provide the perfect canvas for a leisurely wander.
What to do:
Visit the Louvre: savor the art minus the crowds of high season.
Montmartre Vineyard Fest: taste the wines produced in the heart of the city.
Nuit Blanche: the city’s famous all-night art festival, when artists light up Paris with installations and performances.
Luxembourg Gardens: a peaceful spot to watch the season change.
Paris Autumn Festival: showcasing the finest in theatre, music and dance.
What to eat:
Pumpkin soup: an autumnal staple in Paris café culture.
Roasted chestnuts: pick up a bag from street vendors to warm you up on a chilly day.
Game meat: many restaurants put this on special menus during the season.
What to wear:
The weather can be unpredictable: be prepared for both sun and rain. Comfortable shoes are a must; Paris’s cobbled streets are not forgiving on high heels.
There are fewer tourists in the autumn, so you’ll find cheaper travel and accommodation prices.
Winter in Paris (12-2)
Winter in Paris is cold but enchanting. The city sparkles in the festive season, with lights and decorations setting the scene for Christmas and New Year. It’s a magical time to experience holidays in France, especially with the unique charm Paris offers during this season.
What to do:
Christmas markets: the perfect place to buy gifts and drink mulled wine.
New Year’s Eve at the Eiffel Tower: one of the most fabulous firework displays in the world is accompanied by music and street celebrations.
Winter sales: with up to 70% off, January is the best time for shopaholics in Paris.
Covered passages: explore the historic arcades for shelter from the cold and a fascinating glimpse into Paris’s past.
Outdoor ice skating: glide around the Hotel de Ville rink in the heart of the city.
What to eat:
Vin chaud: warm yourself up with a glass of hot mulled wine.
Raclette: a traditional winter favorite, serving up melted cheese over potatoes, meats and vegetables.
Galette des Rois: a puff pastry, flaky cake shared on January 6 to celebrate Epiphany and mark the end of the Christmas season.
What to wear:
You’ll need a warm coat, thermal layers, and plenty of woolens – don’t forget your hat, gloves and scarf.
If you’re a cold-weather lover who’s captivated by the magical atmosphere of the festive season, then winter is a must-visit time for you. Plus there are fewer tourists around.
FAQS
When is the best month for weather in Paris?
May and September have the best weather, warm temperatures and less crowds.
When is the coldest month in Paris?
January is usually the coldest month with an average low of 1°C.
Is it safe to go to France?
Yes, France is generally safe however always use cation when traveling.
Does it rain all year in Paris?
Rain is moderate but consistent - spring and autumn can be less predictable with the weather.
Summary
Paris's weather will make or break your visit, so the timeframe in which you witness it is crucial.
Spring flower blooms, winter fairy lights or summer picnics: each season has its own merits.
This guide will ensure you see Paris at its finest, no matter when you come.