Best time to go to Paris Average weather of Paris, Parisian region
Lucie Lhortolat and Tony Samson last update: 17/04/2024When is the best time to go to Paris?
Capital most visited in the world, Paris is a city rich in unique architectural, historical, and cultural heritage. From spring to autumn (May to October), the climate is favorable for a trip.
The best time to visit Paris is in spring (May-June) when the days lengthen and temperatures rise. The sun is often shining, and the temperature hovers around 20°C (68°F) .
However, autumn, in September-October, can also be a good idea. During this period, there are many sunny days, although showers are possible. Additionally, tourist crowds decrease compared to summer.
In July and August, the heat can be intense, around 25-30°C, and heatwaves are possible. However, the city has many gardens where you can enjoy some shade.
Moreover, if you're wondering when to go to Paris, it's worth noting that August is often appreciated by travelers. Indeed, the weather is usually fine, and many Parisians are on vacation. This allows you to have the city almost reserved for tourists. It's a good time to climb Montmartre or visit the Louvre with fewer people to catch a glimpse of the Mona Lisa!
Visiting Paris in winter is also possible. It's not the ideal time in terms of weather, due to the cold and significant precipitation. But it can be pleasant to stroll along the illuminated Champs-Élysées during the Christmas holidays.
Finally, the saying goes that in April, you should not shed a thread, and this is true in Paris as temperatures are around 10-15°C. However, visiting Paris during this period can be enjoyable with the famous Foire de Paris. The wildest innovations are displayed there before the curious eyes of thousands of visitors. Additionally, April is one of the least rainy months.
So, when is the best time to go to Paris? Here's some more information to help you in your decision:
- The best months for good weather in Paris are May, June, July, August, September and October
- On average, the warmest months are July and August
- January is the coldest month of the year
- The rainiest months are January, February, May, June, July and December
Annual weather in Paris
Weather details in Paris month by month
Weather and climate in Paris
Paris has a oceanic climate with hot summers and moderately cold winters. The sky is often cloudy there. The sunshine level is around 1,500 hours per year, compared to just over 2,300 hours for Marseille and 2,200 hours for Ajaccio.
It's no secret that it rains practically all year round in Paris. There are about 110 days of precipitation in a year, but it is most often light rain.
Thus, in any season, the presence of numerous museums to visit allows you to enjoy the city despite the often capricious weather in Paris.
Each season has its own specificities and the city can be visited all year round regardless of the weather.
Climate in Paris in Summer
Summer is a beautiful season to visit Paris. Indeed, from early June to late August, the French capital experiences a peak of sunshine and high temperatures. The thermometer can rise to over 35°C (95°F) , with an average of around 20°C (68°F) .
However, unlike other French cities like Toulouse and Nice, precipitation is as significant in Paris in summer as it is during the rest of the year. It is therefore advisable to pack an umbrella in your suitcase.
Climate in Paris in Autumn
From mid-September to November, Paris changes its face. The summer heat gives way to the mildness of autumn and its beautiful colors. You can admire them by strolling in the Luxembourg or Tuileries gardens.
The weather gradually cools down. Thus, temperatures drop to around 15°C (59°F) to reach about 7 to 5°C (41°F) approaching winter.
Moreover, during this period, the weather in Paris is quite rainy. Indeed, it rains about 7 to 9 days a month. The rain comes in the form of light showers, but it can rain all day.
In general, autumn is still a pleasant season in Paris, with a mild climate and regular sunshine.
Climate in Paris in Winter
From December to March, Paris enjoys a mild winter, with an average temperature of 5°C (41°F) .
This season is also characterized by significant rainfall: precipitation tends to intensify.
Snowfall is possible in winter, especially in January or February. However, the snowfall period does not exceed about ten days a year and the snow rarely sticks to the ground.
Finally, if you visit Paris in winter, you can forget about blue skies. Indeed, the sun is largely absent during this period, with only about two hours of sunshine per day.
Certainly, the weather in Paris is not ideal during this season, but that doesn't stop many tourists from enjoying the end-of-year festivities in the capital.
Climate in Paris in Spring
The weather in Paris is very favorable in spring. Indeed, from April, the weather becomes a bit drier. The blue sky makes a comeback and the sun shines again. The terraces of the many Parisian cafes and bistros fill up.
Moreover, you quickly shed the layers of winter clothing as the maximum average temperature ranges between 17 and 21°C (70°F) .
The months of April and May are ideal, with fewer tourists than in summer and a pleasant climate. But in general, spring is an excellent season to discover Paris.
Charts: temperature and rainfall in Paris
In the charts below, you can see the following seasonal norms for the city of Paris: the minimum and maximum outdoor temperature, the risk and amount of monthly rainfall, daily average sunshine, and relative humidity for each month of the year.
Outside temperature
Precipitation (rainfall)
Daily sunshine hours
Humidity
Peak visitor numbers and tourist seasons in Paris
Find out when Paris has its high tourist season (the period when the influx of tourists is highest) and off-peak tourist season using our data and figures.
Tourist seasons in Paris
- Very low season in Paris
The months with the lowest number of tourists are: January and February. - Low season in Paris
The months with low numbers of tourists are: March and November. - High season in Paris
The number of visitors to Paris is high in: April, May, June, August, September and December. - Peak season in Paris
The largest number of tourists visiting Paris is during: July and October.
Figure: Visitor index for Paris month by month
Best time for low prices in Paris
Average prices of hotels in Paris month by month
Generally, February is the month with the lowest hotel prices in Paris. So this is a great time to save on your holiday! In contrast, July is statistically the most expensive month of the year for hotels.
Find the best price for your hotel room
Average price for flights to Paris
A return flight between London and Paris is generally cheaper if you go in march ($ 79 on average): this is the best time for travellers on a tight budget. In contrast, you may end up paying $ 49 more for your airline ticket to Paris if you go in august.
Find the best price for your flight Flight prices to Paris
Average price of hiring a car in Paris
On average, it costs $ 37 per day to hire a car in Paris. This price varies by $ 21 depending on the month. In january, hiring a car costs an average of $ 29 per 24 hours, so this is the best time to save money! In contrast, the average price in july is $ 50.
Other cities and places near Paris
Best time to go to the parisian region
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