Paris is a city that has captivated the world with its charm, culture, and captivating history. But some people say it’s overrated, and that’s just simply untrue! Paris is a city for everyone, offering diverse experiences that cater to every taste, from art and history enthusiasts to foodies and fashionistas. But one thing it doesn’t offer is beaches. This guide will help you navigate the best time to travel to Paris, taking into account the weather, prices, and special events that will make your trip truly unforgettable.
Weathering the City of Lights: When is it Best to Visit Paris?
Let’s start with the weather, because nobody wants to be caught in a drenching rain when exploring the iconic Eiffel Tower or strolling along the Seine River. Paris enjoys a temperate climate, meaning you won’t be scorched by extreme heat or frozen by bone-chilling cold. The average temperature ranges from a chilly 3°C (37°F) in the winter to a pleasant 26°C (78°F) in the summer. But don’t let those averages fool you.
Humidity plays a significant role in how the weather feels. With an average humidity of 78%, the air can be quite moist, which makes even mild temperatures feel cooler. This means you might need to pack layers, especially during the winter months.
And speaking of winter, wind is a factor to consider. The windiest months are from October to April, with January 16th being the most blustery day of the year. You’ll want to pack a sturdy jacket if you’re planning on visiting during this time. Thankfully, April to October offers gentler breezes, with August being the calmest month for wind.
When to Get the Best Deals & Prices in Paris
Now, let’s talk about money! Paris isn’t exactly a budget-friendly destination, but you can still find amazing deals if you know when to go.
To help you plan, we’ll be using data from Statista, a website dedicated to data and trends, to give you insights into average hotel prices in Paris. Keep in mind that this data is from 2016 and 2017, so it might not be completely up-to-date, but it will give you a good idea of the general trends.
August and November through February are historically the best times to find deals on hotels in Paris. This is because these are the off-season months when many Europeans take their own vacations, leaving the city less crowded.
August: The Quietest Month in Paris
August is a unique time to visit Paris. While you might find fewer restaurants and shops open, you’ll also find the lowest prices and enjoy a calm atmosphere without the hustle and bustle of tourist crowds. If you’re okay with some closures and prefer a more relaxed experience, August is a fantastic choice.
Beyond August: Other Months to Find Great Deals
January to March offer good deals, but you might find fewer flights and tours available.
April can be a good time to score a deal, but avoid Easter week when prices tend to spike.
May to July and September to October are usually the most expensive months, especially if you’re looking to book popular tours.
Holidays and Events in Paris: A Guide to Planning Your Trip
Planning a trip to Paris is exciting, but it’s also important to be aware of holidays and events that could affect travel prices, crowd levels, and even availability of certain attractions. Here’s a rundown of some major holidays in Paris and France to help you plan your trip accordingly:
January 1st: New Year’s Day
Expect closures and peak season travel rates.
April 4th and 5th: Easter Sunday and Monday
These are religious holidays with serious closures, reduced metro service, and higher prices.
May 1st: Labor Day
Reduced mass transit schedules and closures are expected, but you might find lower flight and hotel prices due to the closures.
May 8th: Victory in Europe Day
Reduced mass transit schedules, closures, parades, and day-drinking are all part of this festive day.
May 13th: Ascension Day
A religious celebration with reduced mass transit and closures outside of tourist centers.
May 24th: Whit Monday
A bank holiday with reduced mass transit and closures, but not much effect for visitors.
July 14th: Bastille Day
This is Paris’s biggest holiday, a massive party with parades, concerts, and dancing in the streets. Be prepared for crowds and high prices.
August 15th: Feast of the Assumption
Expect possible reductions in mass transit, empty streets, and closed restaurants, but museums will be open.
November 1st: All Saints Day
A Catholic holiday where Parisians visit cemeteries, but most tourist attractions will be open.
November 11th: Armistice Day
A day of remembrance with an Arc de Triomphe ceremony and a parade. Expect modest closures for restaurants and reduced transportation schedules.
December 25th: Christmas Day
Expect closures across Paris, but you can find ethnic restaurants open.
No matter when you choose to visit, Paris will welcome you with open arms and unforgettable experiences. But, armed with this information about weather, pricing, and special events, you can make the most of your trip and create memories that will last a lifetime.
