Paris weather is a legend in its own right, and for good reason. Whether it’s sunny and bright or drizzly and gloomy, the weather will set the scene for your Parisian adventure. There’s no wrong time to visit, but knowing what to expect can make all the difference.
Let’s break down the weather in Paris throughout the year and explore how to make the most of it.
Paris Weather by Season
Paris has a temperate climate, with four distinct seasons, each with its unique charm.
Spring in Paris, especially April and May, is a delight. Blooming flowers and mild temperatures create a picturesque setting. However, rain is common, so don’t forget your parapluie!
- March: 9 rainy days
- April: 12 rainy days
- May: 14 rainy days
Summer in Paris means warm, sunny days and long, golden evenings. It’s a popular time to visit, but many Parisians head on vacation in August, so the city has a quieter vibe during that month.
- Average temperatures: 59°F (15°C) to at least 83°F (28°C)
- June: 9 rainy days
- July: 8 rainy days
- August: 7 rainy days
Autumn in Paris is a magical time for culture lovers. The cultural season kicks off with new art exhibits, concerts, and theatre performances. The weather starts to cool down, and the leaves change color, creating a beautiful tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows.
- September: 9 rainy days
- October: 11 rainy days
- November: 13 rainy days
Winter in Paris is festive and charming. The city is adorned with twinkling Christmas lights, and the air is filled with the aromas of cinnamon and mulled wine. But the cold and darkness can be a bit daunting, especially in January and February, the city’s low season.
- December: 11 days of precipitation
- January: 10 days of precipitation
- February: 9 days of precipitation
The Best Time to Visit Paris: It Depends on Your Interests
As the iconic Audrey Hepburn said, Paris is always a good idea. It truly offers something for everyone throughout the year.
If you’re a museum enthusiast or love soaking up culture, autumn and winter are ideal. You can explore world-class museums like the Louvre and the Musée D’Orsay without the heat or rain interfering. And the long evenings are perfect for indulging in concerts or ballet performances.
But if you envision yourself strolling along the Seine or having a picnic in the Tuileries Gardens, spring and summer might be more your style.
For bargain hunters, the twice-yearly sales, known as les “Soldes,” happen in January and July. This is a great time to snag fantastic deals on clothing, accessories, and home goods.
Packing for Paris Weather: What to Wear
Paris is known for its fashion sense, but there’s no need to dress to impress every day. Focus on comfort and practicality and pack accordingly.
Tip 1: Layers are essential. The weather in Paris can be unpredictable, so layering allows you to adjust as needed. You can easily shed a light sweater in summer or add a tee shirt beneath a sweater in winter.
Tip 2: Choose comfortable, weather-appropriate footwear. Paris involves a lot of walking, so make sure your shoes are kind to your feet. Save your heels or dress shoes for special occasions and opt for comfortable shoes for everyday exploring. In winter, prioritize warmth and dryness.
Tip 3: Accessorize! Parisians love to add flair to their outfits with scarves and shawls, and you can too. They’re also great for adding warmth. Lightweight hats are another excellent accessory—a rain hat or beanie for fall, winter, or spring, and a sun hat for summer.
Remember to dress respectfully if you plan to visit churches or cathedrals. Cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect for these sacred spaces.
Capturing Paris Through the Lens: Photography Tips
Paris is a photographer’s dream destination. Each season offers unique opportunities to capture its beauty.
- Spring: Capture the blooming cherry blossoms in parks like Parc de Sceaux or Parc de Belleville.
- Summer: Use the soft, diffused light during the golden hour for romantic street scenes or architectural details.
- Autumn: Embrace the warm, golden tones of autumn foliage in parks like Parc Monceau or Jardin des Tuileries.
- Winter: Create a winter wonderland effect with snow-covered rooftops and streets.
Experiment with different techniques:
- Macro photography: Capture the intricate details of flowers and foliage.
- Long exposure photography: Capture the trails of car lights on rainy or snowy evenings.
- Reflections: Use puddles to add interest to your images.
Include iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower or Arc de Triomphe in your compositions.
Don’t forget the Seine River! It adds a sense of tranquility to any photograph.
For more photography tips and hidden gems, check out our video!
Ready to plan your Parisian adventure?
Now that you’re equipped with knowledge about Paris weather, go forth and create unforgettable memories in the City of Lights!
