While France is one of the best countries to visit in June<\/a>, Paris is a city for all months and seasons. We\u2019ll help you pick the right ones for your Paris adventure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Seasonal overview of Paris<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Luxembourg](\"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2020\/06\/Luxembourg-Gardens-with-cherubs-holding-flower-pots-in-foreground-and-palace-in-the-background-1024x682.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nChoosing a time to visit Paris can be overwhelming, especially if it\u2019s your first trip. Above, we touched on Paris\u2019 high, low, and shoulder seasons for travelers, but you might be wondering: What do those terms even mean? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Don\u2019t worry \u2014 these terms just refer to the peak and off times for tourists. Here are the months these seasons fall in: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- High season<\/strong>: June to August and late December for the holidays <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Low season<\/strong>: Early December and January to March <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Shoulder seasons<\/strong>: April to May and September to November <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
The low and shoulder seasons are generally the best times to visit Paris to avoid crowds and if you\u2019re on a budget. Paris\u2019 low season, however, typically has the worst weather, so keep that in mind while you\u2019re planning. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Like any major city, a lot happens in Paris every year. Here are a few of the highlights, broken out by season, to mark in your calendar. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Spring (March to May)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Why Paris in spring? <\/strong>March to May is a great time to visit Paris for temperate weather and to avoid crowds. Falling in the shoulder season, you\u2019re also likely to find deals on airfare and hotel rooms that work for your budget. Sometimes you can even snag discounts to museums and other tourist attractions. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBest attractions<\/strong>: When Paris is in full bloom and the sun is shining bright, you\u2019ll want to head to the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens<\/a>, the largest gardens in Paris, for a whimsical afternoon sailing toy boats, watching a puppet show, or simply just people watching. Second only to the Luxembourg Gardens in beauty, the Jardin des Tuileries<\/a> is a romantic and peaceful greenspace just outside the Louvre Museum<\/a>, so if it starts raining or gets too cold, you\u2019ve got an indoor activity nearby to enjoy. <\/p>\n\n\n\nEvents worth traveling for:<\/strong> In March when there\u2019s still a chill in the air, the three-day food festival La F\u00eate de la Gastronomie is the perfect way to experience the peak of French culture. If you\u2019re a runner or sports fan, watching participants cross the finish line of the Paris Marathon in April can\u2019t be missed. And every May brings more excitement to the city with the French Open held in the Roland Garros stadium. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBest month to visit Paris:<\/strong> March is the winner despite the occasional rain shower and slightly cooler temperatures. You\u2019ll have very few tourists crowding the Eiffel Tower<\/a>, and you\u2019ll get to experience the city more like Parisians do. <\/p>\n\n\n\nSummer (June to August)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Why Paris in summer? <\/strong>Summer is the obvious time to plan vacations to France and is often considered one of the best times to visit Paris. What\u2019s not to like? The warmer temperatures make everyone from tourists to Parisians happy, and the longer daylight hours make sightseeing, river cruises on the Seine, and dining outdoors even more magical. Of course, it\u2019s the high season, which means tourists will flock to all the popular attractions that are on your itinerary. Prices tend to be higher, too, but we can guarantee that it won\u2019t stop you from falling in love with Paris. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBest attractions<\/strong>: When the temperatures climb, there\u2019s nothing better than walking around the Seine River<\/a> or, better yet, taking a boat cruise at sunset. A day trip outside of the city can also be a nice change of scenery. The D-Day Normandy beaches<\/a> offer a moving experience you\u2019ll never forget. <\/p>\n\n\n\nEvents worth traveling for:<\/strong> Starting in June, parades and festivals fill the city. Paris\u2019 Pride celebration includes a colorful carnival procession, concerts, and parties in clubs and bars throughout the city. In August, Rock en Seine<\/a> shakes the capital with three days of music performed by bands from France, England, and other countries around the world \u2014 it\u2019s just one of Paris\u2019 many music festivals! But the biggest event happens in July: Bastille Day. July 14 marks the turning point of the French Revolution when a group of Parisians stormed the Bastille prison. The day is filled with events like a military parade down the Champs-\u00c9lys\u00e9es<\/a> and fireworks set off from the base of the Eiffel Tower<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBest month to visit Paris:<\/strong> We have to say July, because the Bastille Day celebrations can\u2019t be beat. <\/p>\n\n\n\nFall (September to November)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Why Paris in the fall? <\/strong>The colorful foliage in all the parks and the temperate weather give Paris a cozy feeling \u2014 perfect for wearing chic sweaters and coats as you explore this fashion capital. What really makes it one of the best times to visit Paris, especially if you\u2019re on a budget and have no patience to wait in long lines for everything, is that it\u2019s a shoulder season. Take advantage of lower rates for airfare and hotel rooms, and very few people blocking your view of the Mona Lisa at the Louvre<\/a>. Okay, maybe that\u2019s too much to hope for, but the city really is less crowded. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBest attractions<\/strong>: Definitely take advantage of all the museums that are typically too crowded in the high season. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Take your time seeing all the highlights at the Louvre Museum<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Venture to all the floors of the Galeries Lafayette<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Spend at least two hours seeing the best of the Mus\u00e9e d\u2019Orsay<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re visiting in October, we also recommend getting a spooky thrill at the P\u00e8re Lachaise Cemetery<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nEvents worth traveling for: <\/strong>Hit the runway in September and October for Paris Fashion Week, join the all-night art party at Nuit Blanche in October, and taste the Beaujolais Nouveau when it becomes available in November \u2014 these are just a few of the exciting events that make fall trips to Paris the best! <\/p>\n\n\n\nBest month to visit Paris:<\/strong> It\u2019s a tie between October and November. Both have beautiful foliage and plenty of festive things to do. <\/p>\n\n\n\nWinter (December to February)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2020\/11\/Paris-December-Christmas-Market-Defense.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhy Paris in winter? <\/strong>Apart from late December, winter is generally the best time to visit Paris to avoid crowds and save money. The city isn\u2019t a top destination for winter vacations, so you should be able to find affordable deals on everything from airfare to dining options. If you do travel to Paris in December, you\u2019ll get to experience the magic of the city at Christmas, which is definitely a highlight if you\u2019re traveling with kids. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBest attractions<\/strong>: If you\u2019re in Paris in December<\/a>, Christmas markets and light displays can\u2019t be missed. For the rest of the chilly months, we suggest indoor activities like museums, the Palais Garnier<\/a>, or the often overlooked Panth\u00e9on<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nEvents worth traveling for: <\/strong>The Christmas market at Jardin des Tuileries<\/a> features a giant ferris wheel, where you\u2019ll have an amazing view of the city lit up \u2014 especially the Eiffel Tower! From mid-December to mid-January, take the kids to the Christmas market at Disneyland Paris for some holiday fun with all their favorite characters. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBest month to visit Paris:<\/strong> January still has the holiday feel, but with dwindling crowds. <\/p>\n\n\n\nThere\u2019s plenty to see and do throughout the year in Paris, so the best time to go is when you think you\u2019ll have the greatest adventure. Better yet, why not plan Paris trips for every season? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best time to visit Paris to avoid crowds<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Louvre](\"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2020\/08\/Louvre-pyramid-with-fountain-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDon\u2019t want to spend your time in Paris pushing through large crowds of people and waiting in line to do everything? We get it. If you want to avoid the crowds, you need to plan accordingly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
First, the worst time of year is the high season: mainly the summer months, but also the end of December. Don\u2019t book your trip when most people take their vacations from June to August \u2014 most Parisians leave the city in July and August anyway, so you\u2019ll just be left with the other tourists. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For shorter lines at popular landmarks and a more relaxed atmosphere, plan your visit in the low season from January to March. We like March because there are early signs of Spring, which means that you get the benefit of a tranquil atmosphere, plus the start of nicer weather. The shoulder seasons \u2014 April to May and September to November \u2014 are also good times to visit before the tourist season is in full swing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you can only travel to Paris during the peak tourist season, there are other ways to avoid the crowds: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Stay away from shopping centers and popular landmarks on weekends, and try to do some late-afternoon and evening sightseeing. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Visit lesser-known attractions like the Mus\u00e9e d\u2019Orsay that Parisians prefer<\/a> to the Louvre or the Panth\u00e9on<\/a>. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Take Paris tours<\/a> that offer skip-the-line access to attractions like the Arc de Triomphe<\/a> and our Paris Catacombs Tour<\/a>. And be sure to ask your local guides for tips on finding the less-crowded parts of the city. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Best months<\/strong>: January, February, March, April, May, September, October, and November <\/p>\n\n\n\nWorst Months<\/strong>: June, July, August, and late December <\/p>\n\n\n\nBest time to visit Paris with kids<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Paris](\"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2023\/05\/Paris-With-Kids-1024x768.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhen planning family vacations, you\u2019re obviously limited to school holidays, which usually fall in the winter, spring, and summer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luckily, Paris has lots of family-friendly activities throughout the year, so it doesn\u2019t really matter when you go. If you\u2019re looking to spend more time in Paris\u2019 beautiful parks like the Luxembourg Gardens<\/a> or Jardin des Tuileries<\/a>, summer has the best weather. For holiday magic, book your trip for December. <\/p>\n\n\n\nHere\u2019s an overview of seasonal events to guide you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Winter<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n- Christmas markets pop up all over the city, including the Jardin des Tuileries and Disneyland Paris. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Another holiday treat are the concerts at Sainte-Chapelle<\/a> or the first-night menorah lighting for Hanukkah at the Eiffel Tower. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Bake bread and pastries together with an Authentic French Baking Experience<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Family](\"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/06\/Family-showing-croissant-dough.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSpring<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n- Take a Paris in a Day tour<\/a> to see the best of the city\u2019s landmarks in one go. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Attend kid tours and workshops at museums like the Louvre. Attractions like the Panth\u00e9on<\/a> also provide activity books for kids. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Summer<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n- Plan a beach day along the Seine River at Paris Plages. Every summer, you\u2019ll see artificial beaches pop up on the H\u00f4tel de Ville Square and Villette Basin. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Stay on the Seine with a walking tour and boat cruise<\/a>. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The Paris l’Et\u00e9 festival in July offers lots of theater, music, and circus performances to keep both kids and adults entertained. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
For more practical tips, this guide to experiencing Paris with kids<\/a> shares everything you need to know. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBest months<\/strong>: December, April, May, June, July, and August
Worst months<\/strong>: January, February, and March<\/p>\n\n\n\nBest time to visit Paris on a budget<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Paris](\"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2023\/05\/Paris-Picnic-1024x768.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nParis\u2019 low season has a lot going for it. One of the best reasons to head there in early December before the holiday rush, January, and February is the prices. If you\u2019re a budget-conscious traveler, you\u2019re sure to save on flights, accommodations, public transportation, and even the city\u2019s most popular attractions like on tours of the Eiffel Tower<\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe downside is that temperatures can dip into the 30s, but a cozy cafe or museum visit will warm you up \u2014 especially if you happen to be there on a free museum day (the first Sunday of the month). There might also be fewer tours running and reduced hours for activities like Seine River cruises.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Free attractions and activities can also help you stay on budget, even if you\u2019re visiting during peak tourist season. Here are some budget-friendly ideas to save on your trip: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of Paris\u2019 beautiful parks instead of dining in a cafe. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Book accommodations in more affordable neighborhoods like Montparnasse<\/a> in the 14th arrondissement, Strasbourg Saint-Denis in the 10th arrondissement, Belleville in the 20th arrondissement, and Vincennes in the 21st arrondissement. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Paris is relatively small for a capital city, so it\u2019s easy to walk to get where you need to go. The metro is also reliable and fast, so there\u2019s no need to spend your money on taxis. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Enjoy simple pleasures like wandering around to look at Paris balconies<\/a>, street art, and street performances. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Research before you go to popular attractions to see if you\u2019re eligible for any discounts. Booking tickets in advance might also save you money that would be better spent on a croissant or souvenir. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Best months<\/strong>: Early December, January, February, and the shoulder seasons<\/p>\n\n\n\nWorst months<\/strong>: June, July, August, and late December<\/p>\n\n\n\nWorst time to visit Paris<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"champs](\"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/06\/champs-elysees.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe worst time to visit Paris? Again, it depends on what you\u2019re looking (or not looking) for. Each season has its drawbacks, such as bad weather, large crowds, reduced hours, or high prices. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
While planning your ideal Paris trip, consider changing things up. Do you typically plan summer vacations? Try the spring or fall. Do your family trips tend to break the bank? Take the kids to Paris in the low or shoulder seasons for more budget-friendly options. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paris tours and activities for every season<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"tour](\"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/06\/Tour-Guide-explaining-with-folder-during-Eiffel-Tower-Guided-Climb.jpeg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhether summer, spring, winter, or fall, you\u2019ll only discover the \u201creal\u201d Paris with a local guide. Our Paris tours<\/a> immerse you in French culture and introduce you to the City of Light one arrondissement at a time. Don\u2019t know which tour to choose for your trip? We\u2019ve highlighted the best tour for each season: <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Springtime in Paris<\/strong>: Walk to the Seine\u2019s most popular bridges, visit the Orsay Museum, and upgrade to journey down the river in a boat on this scenic Seine River Walking tour<\/a>. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Summer Sightseeing<\/strong>: From the Moulin Rouge to the Sacr\u00e9-C\u0153ur, explore the bohemian heart of Paris on our Montmartre tour<\/a>. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Fall for the Eiffel Tower<\/strong>: We\u2019ve got two unique Eiffel Tower tours<\/a> to reach the top and see Paris from different heights.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Winter Wonderland<\/strong>: With our Paris in a Day tour<\/a>, you can keep warm on a heated bus in between stops and see the city all lit up for the holidays. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Plan your perfect Paris getaway<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Scenic](\"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/06\/Scenic-view-of-Eiffel-Tower-from-the-ground.jpeg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNow that you know there\u2019s no bad time to visit Paris, we hope this takes the pressure off. You can plan your trip based on your interests, the vibe you\u2019re looking for, and the memories you want to make. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
We\u2019ve told you about events happening throughout the year to mark in your calendar, activities to do with kids, exploring Paris on a budget, and tips for avoiding crowds. All that\u2019s left to do is build your itinerary. Let us help you fill it with our immersive Paris tours<\/a> led by local guides who know everything about the city. <\/p>\n\n\n\nNo matter when you visit, Paris will always be Paris. How you experience it, well, that changes with the seasons.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
When it comes to planning the perfect trip to Paris, timing is everything. The good news is that there isn\u2019t a bad time to visit the City of Light, nor is there a \u201cbest\u201d time. Actually, let\u2019s rephrase that a bit. The best time to visit Paris and the worst time to visit Paris is<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":75,"featured_media":23998,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[23],"tags":[],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/35612"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/75"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=35612"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/35612\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":36180,"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/35612\/revisions\/36180"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/23998"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=35612"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=35612"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=35612"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nChoosing a time to visit Paris can be overwhelming, especially if it\u2019s your first trip. Above, we touched on Paris\u2019 high, low, and shoulder seasons for travelers, but you might be wondering: What do those terms even mean? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Don\u2019t worry \u2014 these terms just refer to the peak and off times for tourists. Here are the months these seasons fall in: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- High season<\/strong>: June to August and late December for the holidays <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Low season<\/strong>: Early December and January to March <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Shoulder seasons<\/strong>: April to May and September to November <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
The low and shoulder seasons are generally the best times to visit Paris to avoid crowds and if you\u2019re on a budget. Paris\u2019 low season, however, typically has the worst weather, so keep that in mind while you\u2019re planning. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Like any major city, a lot happens in Paris every year. Here are a few of the highlights, broken out by season, to mark in your calendar. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Spring (March to May)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Why Paris in spring? <\/strong>March to May is a great time to visit Paris for temperate weather and to avoid crowds. Falling in the shoulder season, you\u2019re also likely to find deals on airfare and hotel rooms that work for your budget. Sometimes you can even snag discounts to museums and other tourist attractions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best attractions<\/strong>: When Paris is in full bloom and the sun is shining bright, you\u2019ll want to head to the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens<\/a>, the largest gardens in Paris, for a whimsical afternoon sailing toy boats, watching a puppet show, or simply just people watching. Second only to the Luxembourg Gardens in beauty, the Jardin des Tuileries<\/a> is a romantic and peaceful greenspace just outside the Louvre Museum<\/a>, so if it starts raining or gets too cold, you\u2019ve got an indoor activity nearby to enjoy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Events worth traveling for:<\/strong> In March when there\u2019s still a chill in the air, the three-day food festival La F\u00eate de la Gastronomie is the perfect way to experience the peak of French culture. If you\u2019re a runner or sports fan, watching participants cross the finish line of the Paris Marathon in April can\u2019t be missed. And every May brings more excitement to the city with the French Open held in the Roland Garros stadium. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best month to visit Paris:<\/strong> March is the winner despite the occasional rain shower and slightly cooler temperatures. You\u2019ll have very few tourists crowding the Eiffel Tower<\/a>, and you\u2019ll get to experience the city more like Parisians do. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Summer (June to August)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Why Paris in summer? <\/strong>Summer is the obvious time to plan vacations to France and is often considered one of the best times to visit Paris. What\u2019s not to like? The warmer temperatures make everyone from tourists to Parisians happy, and the longer daylight hours make sightseeing, river cruises on the Seine, and dining outdoors even more magical. Of course, it\u2019s the high season, which means tourists will flock to all the popular attractions that are on your itinerary. Prices tend to be higher, too, but we can guarantee that it won\u2019t stop you from falling in love with Paris. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best attractions<\/strong>: When the temperatures climb, there\u2019s nothing better than walking around the Seine River<\/a> or, better yet, taking a boat cruise at sunset. A day trip outside of the city can also be a nice change of scenery. The D-Day Normandy beaches<\/a> offer a moving experience you\u2019ll never forget. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Events worth traveling for:<\/strong> Starting in June, parades and festivals fill the city. Paris\u2019 Pride celebration includes a colorful carnival procession, concerts, and parties in clubs and bars throughout the city. In August, Rock en Seine<\/a> shakes the capital with three days of music performed by bands from France, England, and other countries around the world \u2014 it\u2019s just one of Paris\u2019 many music festivals! But the biggest event happens in July: Bastille Day. July 14 marks the turning point of the French Revolution when a group of Parisians stormed the Bastille prison. The day is filled with events like a military parade down the Champs-\u00c9lys\u00e9es<\/a> and fireworks set off from the base of the Eiffel Tower<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best month to visit Paris:<\/strong> We have to say July, because the Bastille Day celebrations can\u2019t be beat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fall (September to November)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Why Paris in the fall? <\/strong>The colorful foliage in all the parks and the temperate weather give Paris a cozy feeling \u2014 perfect for wearing chic sweaters and coats as you explore this fashion capital. What really makes it one of the best times to visit Paris, especially if you\u2019re on a budget and have no patience to wait in long lines for everything, is that it\u2019s a shoulder season. Take advantage of lower rates for airfare and hotel rooms, and very few people blocking your view of the Mona Lisa at the Louvre<\/a>. Okay, maybe that\u2019s too much to hope for, but the city really is less crowded. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best attractions<\/strong>: Definitely take advantage of all the museums that are typically too crowded in the high season. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Take your time seeing all the highlights at the Louvre Museum<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Venture to all the floors of the Galeries Lafayette<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Spend at least two hours seeing the best of the Mus\u00e9e d\u2019Orsay<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re visiting in October, we also recommend getting a spooky thrill at the P\u00e8re Lachaise Cemetery<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Events worth traveling for: <\/strong>Hit the runway in September and October for Paris Fashion Week, join the all-night art party at Nuit Blanche in October, and taste the Beaujolais Nouveau when it becomes available in November \u2014 these are just a few of the exciting events that make fall trips to Paris the best! <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best month to visit Paris:<\/strong> It\u2019s a tie between October and November. Both have beautiful foliage and plenty of festive things to do. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Winter (December to February)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhy Paris in winter? <\/strong>Apart from late December, winter is generally the best time to visit Paris to avoid crowds and save money. The city isn\u2019t a top destination for winter vacations, so you should be able to find affordable deals on everything from airfare to dining options. If you do travel to Paris in December, you\u2019ll get to experience the magic of the city at Christmas, which is definitely a highlight if you\u2019re traveling with kids. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best attractions<\/strong>: If you\u2019re in Paris in December<\/a>, Christmas markets and light displays can\u2019t be missed. For the rest of the chilly months, we suggest indoor activities like museums, the Palais Garnier<\/a>, or the often overlooked Panth\u00e9on<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Events worth traveling for: <\/strong>The Christmas market at Jardin des Tuileries<\/a> features a giant ferris wheel, where you\u2019ll have an amazing view of the city lit up \u2014 especially the Eiffel Tower! From mid-December to mid-January, take the kids to the Christmas market at Disneyland Paris for some holiday fun with all their favorite characters. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best month to visit Paris:<\/strong> January still has the holiday feel, but with dwindling crowds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
There\u2019s plenty to see and do throughout the year in Paris, so the best time to go is when you think you\u2019ll have the greatest adventure. Better yet, why not plan Paris trips for every season? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best time to visit Paris to avoid crowds<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDon\u2019t want to spend your time in Paris pushing through large crowds of people and waiting in line to do everything? We get it. If you want to avoid the crowds, you need to plan accordingly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
First, the worst time of year is the high season: mainly the summer months, but also the end of December. Don\u2019t book your trip when most people take their vacations from June to August \u2014 most Parisians leave the city in July and August anyway, so you\u2019ll just be left with the other tourists. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For shorter lines at popular landmarks and a more relaxed atmosphere, plan your visit in the low season from January to March. We like March because there are early signs of Spring, which means that you get the benefit of a tranquil atmosphere, plus the start of nicer weather. The shoulder seasons \u2014 April to May and September to November \u2014 are also good times to visit before the tourist season is in full swing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you can only travel to Paris during the peak tourist season, there are other ways to avoid the crowds: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Stay away from shopping centers and popular landmarks on weekends, and try to do some late-afternoon and evening sightseeing. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Visit lesser-known attractions like the Mus\u00e9e d\u2019Orsay that Parisians prefer<\/a> to the Louvre or the Panth\u00e9on<\/a>. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Take Paris tours<\/a> that offer skip-the-line access to attractions like the Arc de Triomphe<\/a> and our Paris Catacombs Tour<\/a>. And be sure to ask your local guides for tips on finding the less-crowded parts of the city. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Best months<\/strong>: January, February, March, April, May, September, October, and November <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Worst Months<\/strong>: June, July, August, and late December <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best time to visit Paris with kids<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhen planning family vacations, you\u2019re obviously limited to school holidays, which usually fall in the winter, spring, and summer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luckily, Paris has lots of family-friendly activities throughout the year, so it doesn\u2019t really matter when you go. If you\u2019re looking to spend more time in Paris\u2019 beautiful parks like the Luxembourg Gardens<\/a> or Jardin des Tuileries<\/a>, summer has the best weather. For holiday magic, book your trip for December. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s an overview of seasonal events to guide you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Winter<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Christmas markets pop up all over the city, including the Jardin des Tuileries and Disneyland Paris. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Another holiday treat are the concerts at Sainte-Chapelle<\/a> or the first-night menorah lighting for Hanukkah at the Eiffel Tower. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Bake bread and pastries together with an Authentic French Baking Experience<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSpring<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Take a Paris in a Day tour<\/a> to see the best of the city\u2019s landmarks in one go. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Attend kid tours and workshops at museums like the Louvre. Attractions like the Panth\u00e9on<\/a> also provide activity books for kids. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Summer<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Plan a beach day along the Seine River at Paris Plages. Every summer, you\u2019ll see artificial beaches pop up on the H\u00f4tel de Ville Square and Villette Basin. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Stay on the Seine with a walking tour and boat cruise<\/a>. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The Paris l’Et\u00e9 festival in July offers lots of theater, music, and circus performances to keep both kids and adults entertained. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
For more practical tips, this guide to experiencing Paris with kids<\/a> shares everything you need to know. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best months<\/strong>: December, April, May, June, July, and August
Worst months<\/strong>: January, February, and March<\/p>\n\n\n\nBest time to visit Paris on a budget<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nParis\u2019 low season has a lot going for it. One of the best reasons to head there in early December before the holiday rush, January, and February is the prices. If you\u2019re a budget-conscious traveler, you\u2019re sure to save on flights, accommodations, public transportation, and even the city\u2019s most popular attractions like on tours of the Eiffel Tower<\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The downside is that temperatures can dip into the 30s, but a cozy cafe or museum visit will warm you up \u2014 especially if you happen to be there on a free museum day (the first Sunday of the month). There might also be fewer tours running and reduced hours for activities like Seine River cruises.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Free attractions and activities can also help you stay on budget, even if you\u2019re visiting during peak tourist season. Here are some budget-friendly ideas to save on your trip: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of Paris\u2019 beautiful parks instead of dining in a cafe. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Book accommodations in more affordable neighborhoods like Montparnasse<\/a> in the 14th arrondissement, Strasbourg Saint-Denis in the 10th arrondissement, Belleville in the 20th arrondissement, and Vincennes in the 21st arrondissement. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Paris is relatively small for a capital city, so it\u2019s easy to walk to get where you need to go. The metro is also reliable and fast, so there\u2019s no need to spend your money on taxis. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Enjoy simple pleasures like wandering around to look at Paris balconies<\/a>, street art, and street performances. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Research before you go to popular attractions to see if you\u2019re eligible for any discounts. Booking tickets in advance might also save you money that would be better spent on a croissant or souvenir. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Best months<\/strong>: Early December, January, February, and the shoulder seasons<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Worst months<\/strong>: June, July, August, and late December<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Worst time to visit Paris<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe worst time to visit Paris? Again, it depends on what you\u2019re looking (or not looking) for. Each season has its drawbacks, such as bad weather, large crowds, reduced hours, or high prices. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
While planning your ideal Paris trip, consider changing things up. Do you typically plan summer vacations? Try the spring or fall. Do your family trips tend to break the bank? Take the kids to Paris in the low or shoulder seasons for more budget-friendly options. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paris tours and activities for every season<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhether summer, spring, winter, or fall, you\u2019ll only discover the \u201creal\u201d Paris with a local guide. Our Paris tours<\/a> immerse you in French culture and introduce you to the City of Light one arrondissement at a time. Don\u2019t know which tour to choose for your trip? We\u2019ve highlighted the best tour for each season: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Springtime in Paris<\/strong>: Walk to the Seine\u2019s most popular bridges, visit the Orsay Museum, and upgrade to journey down the river in a boat on this scenic Seine River Walking tour<\/a>. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Summer Sightseeing<\/strong>: From the Moulin Rouge to the Sacr\u00e9-C\u0153ur, explore the bohemian heart of Paris on our Montmartre tour<\/a>. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Fall for the Eiffel Tower<\/strong>: We\u2019ve got two unique Eiffel Tower tours<\/a> to reach the top and see Paris from different heights.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Winter Wonderland<\/strong>: With our Paris in a Day tour<\/a>, you can keep warm on a heated bus in between stops and see the city all lit up for the holidays. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Plan your perfect Paris getaway<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNow that you know there\u2019s no bad time to visit Paris, we hope this takes the pressure off. You can plan your trip based on your interests, the vibe you\u2019re looking for, and the memories you want to make. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
We\u2019ve told you about events happening throughout the year to mark in your calendar, activities to do with kids, exploring Paris on a budget, and tips for avoiding crowds. All that\u2019s left to do is build your itinerary. Let us help you fill it with our immersive Paris tours<\/a> led by local guides who know everything about the city. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
No matter when you visit, Paris will always be Paris. How you experience it, well, that changes with the seasons.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
When it comes to planning the perfect trip to Paris, timing is everything. The good news is that there isn\u2019t a bad time to visit the City of Light, nor is there a \u201cbest\u201d time. Actually, let\u2019s rephrase that a bit. The best time to visit Paris and the worst time to visit Paris is<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":75,"featured_media":23998,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[23],"tags":[],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/35612"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/75"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=35612"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/35612\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":36180,"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/35612\/revisions\/36180"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/23998"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=35612"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=35612"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=35612"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
- Summer Sightseeing<\/strong>: From the Moulin Rouge to the Sacr\u00e9-C\u0153ur, explore the bohemian heart of Paris on our Montmartre tour<\/a>. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The Paris l’Et\u00e9 festival in July offers lots of theater, music, and circus performances to keep both kids and adults entertained. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Attend kid tours and workshops at museums like the Louvre. Attractions like the Panth\u00e9on<\/a> also provide activity books for kids. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Take a Paris in a Day tour<\/a> to see the best of the city\u2019s landmarks in one go. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Take Paris tours<\/a> that offer skip-the-line access to attractions like the Arc de Triomphe<\/a> and our Paris Catacombs Tour<\/a>. And be sure to ask your local guides for tips on finding the less-crowded parts of the city. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Venture to all the floors of the Galeries Lafayette<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Low season<\/strong>: Early December and January to March <\/li>\n\n\n\n