The Travel Pages picks the best time to visit Paris with a monthly summary of weather, hotel prices and special events to help plan a visit.

Paris, the City of Light, experiences a temperate climate with mild temperatures throughout the year. Before we look into the best time to visit Paris, it’s important to understand that the city’s weather patterns are influenced by its location in northern France and its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. The Paris climate is characterized by four distinct seasons, each offering its own unique charm and appeal to visitors.

Let’s explore Paris month by month to help you determine the best time to visit Paris based on weather conditions, special events, and hotel pricing. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your perfect Parisian trip.

Best Time to Visit Paris: Month by Month

January in Paris is typically cold and crisp, with average temperatures ranging from 37°F to 45°F (3°C to 7°C). Rainfall averages 2.2 inches (56mm), and there’s a possibility of light snow, though it rarely accumulates. The city hosts the prestigious Paris Fashion Week in late January, and winter sales (Soldes d’hiver). Hotel prices are generally at their lowest during this month, making it an excellent time for budget-conscious travelers.

February continues the winter trend with temperatures between 37°F and 46°F (3°C to 8°C). Rainfall averages 1.8 inches (46mm), with occasional snow flurries. Valentine’s Day makes Paris particularly romantic during this month, and the city celebrates Chinese New Year with colorful parades. Hotel rates remain relatively low, though they may spike around Valentine’s Day.

March sees the first signs of spring, with temperatures ranging from 41°F to 54°F (5°C to 12°C). Rainfall increases slightly to 2.1 inches (53mm). The Art Paris Art Fair (late March/early April) attracts culture enthusiasts. Hotel prices begin to climb as the tourist season approaches, but good deals can still be found.

April brings mild weather with temperatures between 45°F and 60°F (7°C to 16°C) and 2.1 inches (53mm) of rainfall. The city bursts into bloom, making it one of the most picturesque times to visit. The Paris Marathon and Paris Book Fair draw crowds. Hotel prices increase significantly as this is considered the start of the peak season.

May is arguably one of the best times to visit Paris, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C) and 2.6 inches (66mm) of rainfall. The European Night of Museums and Roland Garros tennis tournament (May/early June) are major attractions. Hotel prices are high, reflecting the popular shoulder season.

June marks the beginning of summer with temperatures wide-ranging between 57°F and 72°F (14°C to 22°C) and 2.2 inches (56mm) of rainfall. The Paris Jazz Festival (throughout the summer) and Fête de la Musique bring music to the streets. Hotel prices reach peak levels as the high season begins.

July sees warmer temperatures ranging from 61°F to 77°F (16°C to 25°C) with 2.2 inches (56mm) of rainfall. Bastille Day celebrations on July 4^th and Paris Plages (artificial beaches by the River Seine) are major highlights. Hotel prices remain at premium levels during this peak tourist month.

August brings similar temperatures to July, ranging from 61°F to 77°F (16°C to 25°C) with 2.1 inches (53mm) of rainfall. The Rock en Seine music festival in Saint-Cloud attracts music lovers. While many Parisians leave for vacation, tourist numbers remain high, keeping hotel prices elevated.

September offers mild temperatures between 55°F and 70°F (13°C to 21°C) with 2.1 inches (53mm) of rainfall. European Heritage Days and Paris Design Week are notable events. Hotel prices begin to decrease as peak season winds down.

October sees cooler temperatures ranging from 48°F to 61°F (9°C to 16°C) with 2.2 inches (56mm) of rainfall. The autumn festival or Festival d’Automne à Paris is held throughout October and on into November. Hotel prices continue to decrease, making it an attractive time to visit.

November brings chilly weather with temperatures between 43°F and 52°F (6°C to 11°C) and 2.2 inches (56mm) of rainfall. The Paris Photo Fair and Salon du Chocolat delight visitors. Hotel prices are relatively low, except during specific events.

December transforms Paris into a festive wonderland with temperatures ranging from 39°F to 46°F (4°C to 8°C) and 2.2 inches (56mm) of rainfall. Christmas markets and holiday illuminations create a magical atmosphere. Hotel prices spike during the holiday season.

Best Time to Visit Paris: Season by Season

When considering the best time to visit Paris, it’s worth noting that shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) often provide the ideal balance of comfortable weather and manageable crowd levels.

Spring visitors can enjoy the city’s famous gardens in full bloom, with the Luxembourg Gardens and Tuileries Garden offering spectacular displays of flowers.

Summer, while busy and expensive, offers the longest daylight hours, perfect for maximizing sightseeing opportunities and enjoying outdoor cafes until late in the evening.

Fall brings beautiful autumn colors to Paris’s parks and a more relaxed atmosphere as tourist numbers decrease.

Winter, despite the cold, offers unique charm with festive decorations and the opportunity to experience Paris like a local.

Best Time to Visit Paris – For You

For budget-conscious travelers, visiting during the low season (November through March, excluding December holidays) provides the best value for accommodations.

Art enthusiasts might want to plan their visit around major exhibitions and fairs, which typically occur in spring and fall.

Food lovers should consider visiting during fall when many food festivals and culinary events take place.

Fashion aficionados might prefer to visit during Paris Fashion Week events in January/February or September/October.

Families with children might find spring or fall most suitable, avoiding the peak summer crowds and heat.

For those seeking romance, spring and fall offer ideal conditions with mild weather and beautiful scenery, though Paris is inherently romantic year-round.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Paris depends on your personal preferences, budget, and interests. Consider what matters most to you – whether it’s weather, crowds, events, or cost – and use this guide to plan your perfect Parisian vacation.