
What to do in Paris during springtime: plans, weather, events, and tips
Spring in Paris awakes every year with a unique energy: gardens blossom, terraces liven up, and streets are lit with longer sunshine hours. This is the ideal season to stroll across historic neighbourhoods, enjoy an outdoor coffee, or discover the city’s cultural heritage.
However, springtime in Paris also comes with some surprises: the weather can be changeable, with occasional rainy spells, and pollen days can affect those who suffer from allergies. Additionally, the city attracts more visitors during April and May, so some landmarks can be more crowded than usual. Knowing these details will allow you to better plan your routes and make the most of every moment!
In this article, you will find a practical guide to Paris’ activities during springtime, routes sorted by day length, and recommendations depending on what kind of traveller you are. From the unmissable classics, all the way to original plans, you will discover how to enjoy spring in Paris to its fullest, combining culture, nature, and cuisine.
So, if you are wondering what to do in Paris during springtime, tag along with us and we will tell you everything about it!
Quick summary: Paris’ finest springtime plans (TOP list)
Should you wish to know which Paris’ springtime musts are, here you are a practical list combining nature, culture, and unique experiences. Every activity features a concrete tip so that you can enjoy it to the fullest!
- Stroll across blossoming gardens: the Tuileries Garden and the Luxembourg Garden are filled with colours and scents during springtime, and they are ideal for a leisurely walk or a photograph session. Tip: arrive early in order to avoid the crowds and capture the morning light.
- Picnic with a view: locations such as the Champ-de-Mars or the Canal Saint-Martin are perfect for an open air picnic. Bring baguettes, cheese, and some wine! Tip: choose a sunny day and seek out the shade underneath the trees.
- A cruise along the Seine at dusk: enjoying Paris from the water is magical, especially when the sun starts to gild the city. Tip: book your place in advance and choose a cruise which allows you to have a seat on the deck.
- Montmartre + golden light lookouts: this quarter offers lovely panoramic views of Paris, which look even better under the dusk’s gilded light. Tip: climb up the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, or up to the viewpoint at the Place du Tertre in order to behold the entire city.
- “Strategic” museums on rainy days: the Louvre and the Orsay Museum are perfect refuges if the weather turns sour. Tip: buy your tickets online in order to avoid the queues and plan a route according to your interests so that you do not end up exhausted.
- Open air terraces and cafés: spring is the ideal season to sit down at a café and watch Parisian life unfold. Tip: look for venues in quiet streets in order to combine ambiance and comfort.
- Cherry trees (sakura) and spring photo spots: parks such as the Parc de Sceaux, and some corners in the Jardin des Plantes are filled with blooming cherry trees during springtime. Tip: go early on, or during a weekday, in order to take your pictures without too many people in the background.
- Spring markets and food tours: markets such as the Marché Bastille feature wonderful, fresh, seasonal produce. Tip: try the fruit and the edible flowers, or let yourself be carried away by a food tour in order to discover local flavours.
- A day trip to Versailles or Giverny: the gardens of Versailles, or Monet’s house in Giverny look splendid during springtime. Tip: book your tickets in advance and plan your transport in order to make the most of your day out of town.
- A sunset at the bridges and banks of the Seine: Parisian bridges such as the Pont Neuf or Pont Alexandre III offer unforgettable views as the sun hides away. Tip: take a blanket or a portable seat if you wish to enjoy the experience at ease as the sun sets.
What Paris is like during springtime: weather, temperatures, and what to expect
Spring in Paris is a lovely season, but it is very changeable! From March through May, the mornings are usually cool, and the afternoons are milder, but rainy spells are not uncommon every now and then. In addition to that, the temperatures can thoroughly change from one day to another, so it is advisable to dress up in layers and carry a light umbrella, just in case it rains.
The key to enjoying Parisian weather is to always be flexible: have an open air plan A, and an indoors plan B, such as museums or cosy cafés.
Paris in March
March still retains a certain coolness and less tourists than the following months, which makes it an ideal moment to explore museums and enjoy short walks across the city. The gardens begin to wake up, but their blooming is still incipient.
To those who seek to know what to do in Paris in March, we will say that cultural plans and quiet cafés are the best choice!
Paris in April
In April, spring is already more obvious: trees and plants bloom, and the weather becomes more pleasant. This is a perfect time to take a stroll across gardens, go on a picnic, and explore quarters such as Montmartre or Le Marais on foot. Watch out during Easter, because prices will spike up, and some landmarks can be much more crowded.
To those who seek to know what to do in Paris in April, combining nature and cultural visits is a wonderful idea!
Paris in May
May brings longer days, gilded light, and warmer temperatures, which fills up the terraces, marketplaces, and parks, both with Parisians and also with tourists. The city feels alive and bright, and it is ideal for open air walks and cruises along the Seine at dusk.
To those planning what to do in Paris in May, this is the perfect moment to make the most of the sun, book your activities in advance, and enjoy spring’s peak splendor!
What to bring and how to dress during springtime (checklist)
Knowing what to bring to Paris during springtime and how to dress is key to enjoying the city without any unwanted surprises! Springtime combines sunny days, cool mornings, and sporadic rainy spells, so the right strategy is to dress up in layers and to be ready for all kinds of weather. Here you are a practical checklist that will sort everything out for you:
Printable checklist:
- Light jacket + intermediate layer: a jumper or a sweater underneath your jacket will allow you to adapt to temperature changes throughout the day.
- Foldable raincoat / Sturdy umbrella: rainy spells are fairly common, especially during March and April. Bringing a light raincoat will not take up much space, and it will prevent a downpour from spoiling your walk.
- Comfortable sneakers: those are a must to tread cobblestoned streets and parks. If it rains, they should be rainproof in order to keep you completely dry.
- Sunglasses + Sun lotion (yes, even in spring): even though it is still springtime, the light can be very intense, especially in May.
- Antihistamines if you are allergic to pollen: cherry blossoms and other springtime flowers can give you trouble, so check with your doctor whether you should bring medication.
- Other useful items: powerbank for your mobile phone, a reusable bottle to keep you hydrated, and tissues for any kind of unforeseen event or accident.
Unmissable open air experiences (springtime = parks, flowers, and walks)
When springtime comes to Paris, the city becomes a huge, beautiful, urban garden. Parks blossom, promenades by the river are filled with life, and every corner invites you to walk leisurely. Should you be on the lookout for a blossomed Paris, these open air experiences are the most memorable during the season!
Blooming gardens and parks
Jardin du Luxembourg: one of the most elegant parks in the city, renowned for its tree lined avenues, its statues, and its flower packed parterres during springtime.
- When to go: from March to May, when the flower bushes begin to bloom.
- Best time to visit: mid morning, or at dusk.
- Photo spot: the green chairs in front of the Luxembourg Palace.
- How to get there: Metro Odéon or Luxembourg (RER B).

Jardin des Tuileries: nestled between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde, it is perfect for a springtime walk amidst sculptures and fountains.
- When to go: April and May, when the gardens show off their colours more vividly.
- Best time to visit: late in the afternoon, when the gilded light touches the fountains.
- Photo spot: the great, central fountain, with the Louvre in the background.
- How to get there: Metro Tuileries or Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre.

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: one of the most original parks in Paris, with hills, bridges, and panoramic views. Less touristy, and more popular among the locals!
- When to go: April and May, when the park is greener.
- Best time to visit: late in the afternoon.
- Photo spot: the Belvedere temple with a view on the lake.
- How to get there: Metro Buttes-Chaumont or Laumière.

Parc Monceau: an elegant park surrounded by mansions, famous for its blossoming trees and its peaceful atmosphere.
- When to go: March and April, to watch the first springtime buds.
- Best time to visit: in the morning, when it is less crowded.
- Photo spot: the romantic bridge upon the pond.
- How to get there: Metro Monceau.
Jardin des Plantes: Paris’ botanical garden is ideal to see different species of flowers, especially roses, when spring comes.
- When to go: April and May, when the roses are starting to bloom.
- Best time to visit: first thing in the morning.
- Photo spot: the flower parterres in front of the great garden gallery.
- How to get there: Metro Jussieu or Gare d’Austerlitz.

Sakura and spring photographic spots
Every year, the blooming cherry trees in Paris attract photographers and travellers in search of that fleeting instant of beautiful, rose petals. The sakura phenomenon in Paris usually takes place between late March and early April, although it heavily depends on the weather each year.
Some of the best places to see it include areas of the Jardin des Plantes, the Jardin du Luxembourg, or the spectacular Parc de Sceaux, in the outskirts of the city. Always respect the trees, and avoid climbing upon their branches, or shaking them to take better pictures!


«Parisian style” picnics
Going on a picnic in Paris is one of the favourite spring rituals of both locals and travellers. The formula is simple: drop by a boulangerie, buy a freshly baked baguette, some cheese, seasonal fruit, and a bottle of wine, and look for a nice place to sit down in!
Among the best places to go on a picnic in Paris, there are:
- Champ de Mars: with direct views on the Eiffel Tower.
- Best time to visit: at noon or dusk.
- Photo spot: a picnic with the tower in the background.
- Canal Saint-Martin: very popular among Parisian youths.
- Best time to visit: choose a sunny afternoon.
- Photo spot: beside the metal bridges along the canal.
- Banks of the Seine: the pedestrianised docks allow you to sit in front of the river.
- Best time to visit: when the sun sets.
- Photo spot: with the bridges and historic buildings reflected on the water.

A cruise along the Seine during springtime
A cruise along the Seine during springtime offers a different perspective of the city. From the water, you will be able to admire some of the most famous monuments in Paris as the river runs through its historic heart!
The most special moment is usually at dusk, when the gilded sunshine lights up the façades and the bridges upon the Seine, and the city lights start becoming aglow.
- Best time to visit: at dusk and early at night.
- Photo spot: the deck of a boat as it passes in front of the Eiffel Tower or the Pont Alexandre III.
- Tip: during festivities, bank holidays, and weekends in springtime, it is best to book in advance, since this is one of the most popular activities. You can do so here with us!

Indoors cultural plans (for cool or rainy days)
Parisian spring is known to be capricious, and for very good reason: it can grace you with a bright morning and, a few hours later, send you a downpour that will invite you to take shelter under a roof. Hence, it is always convenient to keep a few ideas at hand in order to know what to do in Paris if it rains. Luckily enough, the city is packed with perfect cultural venues for a cool or rainy day, especially if you are interested in Parisian museums!
Unmissable museums to take shelter from the rain
Louvre Museum: the most famous museum in Paris is also one of the best plans for a grey day. Its sprawling galleries will allow you to spend hours discovering masterpieces.
Tip: go early or late in the afternoon in order to avoid the crowds.
Musée d’Orsay: located in a former train station, this museum features some of the finest Impressionist works in the world.
Tip: do not miss out on the huge clock window in the upper floor, since it is one of the most iconic photo spots in the building.
Musée de l’Orangerie: smaller and quieter, it is renowned for hosting the painting series Water Lilies, by Claude Monet.
Tip: it is perfect for a short visit after taking a walk across the neighbouring gardens.
Centre Pompidou: the shrine of modern and contemporary art in Paris. Its futuristic architecture makes for a stark contrast with the city’s classical buildings.
Tip: walk up to the rooftop in order to enjoy a panoramic view of the historic centre.
Discover Paris’ covered passageways
Another, elegant alternative when it rains is to explore the historic, covered passageways dating back to the 1800s. These commercial galleries with glass ceilings hide away book stores, cafés, curious shops, and little restaurants that will delight you! Some of the most interesting ones include:
- Galerie Vivienne – one of the most elegant galleries, with floor mosaics and refined boutiques.
- Passage des Panoramas – packed with historic restaurants and specialised stores.
- Passage Jouffroy – perfect for discovering old book stores and curious shops.

Ideal quarters for springtime (mini-guide by areas)
One of the best activities to undertake during this time of the year is to take a walk across Paris in spring and discover its neighbourhoods on foot. Every area has its very own beat, squares where you can sit under the sunshine, cafés with terraces, and perfect cultural nooks to switch between outdoors and indoors if the weather changes. Here we go with some of the most pleasant quarters to explore in Paris during springtime!
Le Marais
If you are wondering what to see in Le Marais during springtime, this historical quarter is a perfect mixture of Medieval streets, little squares, and independent boutiques. In spring, its terraces are packed, and the atmosphere is lively and ideal to roam aimlessly.
- Outdoors plan: take a walk across the elegant Place des Vosges, one of the prettiest in the city, which is perfect to take a seat underneath the sunshine or take pictures beneath its arcades.
- Indoors plans: visit the Musée Carnavalet, devoted to the history of Paris, which is located within a historic palace.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Latin Quarter
Amidst bookshops, historic cafés, and university thoroughfares, this area has a very Parisian atmosphere to it. For those seeking what to see in Saint-Germain-des-Prés in spring, we can say that this is an ideal quarter to combine culture, gardens, and walks close to the Seine.
- Outdoors plan: explore the Jardin du Luxembourg, one of the most emblematic ones in the city.
- Indoors plan: enter the famous book store Shakespeare and Company, a legendary venue for literature lovers.

Montmartre
Its hills, stairs, cobbled streets, and panoramic views turn this quarter into one of the most photogenic ones to take a stroll across Paris during springtime. The flowers in the balconies and the mild light of the season add a special kind of charm to it!
- Outdoors plan: climb up to the Sacré-Cœur and enjoy the lookout point upon the city.
- Indoors plan: visit the Musée de Montmartre, which showcases the quarter’s artistic legacy.

Canal Saint-Martin
More local and laid back, this quarter is perfect to discover a different side to the city. Should you be looking for what to see in Canal Saint-Martin during springtime, you will find promenades by the water, modern cafés, and a most creative ambiance.
- Outdoors plan: take a walk or go on a picnic next to the Canal Saint-Martin, one of the favourite spots for Parisians on sunny days.
- Indoors plan: make a stop at a specialty coffee house, or at one of the small art galleries in the neighbourhood.
Champs-Élysées, Trocadéro, and the Eiffel Tower
For those looking for what to see close to the Eiffel Tower in spring, this area features some of the most famous landmarks in Paris. Its broad avenues and neighbouring parks make it ideal to take walks at dusk.
- Outdoors plan: take a walk up to the lookout at the Trocadéro in order to obtain one of the classic views on the Eiffel Tower, especially during golden hour.
- Indoors plan: visit the Palais de Tokyo, a contemporary art venue with temporary exhibitions.

Springtime events and agenda (March to May)
Spring brings along a very active cultural agenda to France’s capital city! Counting exhibitions, art fairs, festivals, and sporting events, springtime events in Paris offer you interesting plans almost every week.
Temporary exhibitions in museums and cultural centres
During these months, plenty of important museums hold temporary exhibitions which attract international visitors. Institutions such as the Louvre Museum, the Musée d’Orsay, or the Centre Pompidou usually renew their programs in springtime, with exhibits devoted to both historical and contemporary artists.
Additionally, events such as the Art Paris Art Fair gather galleries and artists under the dome of the Grand Palais, becoming one of the most important artistic dates in Paris’ cultural calendar.
You can check plenty of these activities here!
Cultural festivals and live music
From April to May, the city hosts different cultural and scenic arts festivals. One of the most known ones is the Festival 100% La Villette, which combines theatre, contemporary circus, and family shows in several cultural venues in the La Villette park.
It is also common to find concerts, music festivals, and events in historic halls or outdoors, especially when the weather picks up and cultural activities expand towards parks and public spaces.
Seasonal celebrations and special events
Spring also brings more informal celebrations and popular sporting events:
- Paris Marathon, one of the largest urban marathons in Europe, which runs through some of the most famous monuments in the city every April.
- Easter activities, markets, and family events in parks and museums during the spring break period.
- Fun events such as the International Pillow Fight Day, which gathers participants in the Place de la République for a group pillow battle.
Tip: plenty of festivals in Paris in April and May change dates every year. Before you travel, it is advisable to check the official city agenda, or local tourist portals, in order to confirm schedules and up to date events. You can do so here!
Recommended itineraries (1, 3, and 5 days) — Spring version
Should you be planning a spring itinerary across Paris, the key is to combine classic monuments with parks, walks, and open air activities. During this time of the year, it is really worth it to make the most of the sunlight hours, the blossomed gardens, and the sunsets next to the Seine!
Paris in 1 day (in springtime)
Should you only have one day, it is best to focus on the most iconic locations while still relishing the spring atmosphere, and reading our complete guide thoroughly.
In the morning: start off at the historic Île de la Cité, where Notre-Dame can be found. Afterwards, walk towards the Louvre in order to admire its pyramid and the palace yard. Should the weather be rainy, you are in for a treat, because you can take the chance to visit the indoors of the museum.
In the afternoon: take a walk across the Jardin des Tuileries, one of the most pleasant parks to get to know in spring. Once there, you can visit the Musée de l’Orangerie or the Musée d’Orsay.
In the evening: wrap your day up by walking along the Seine, or taking a night-time cruise in order to see the monuments all lit up.
Paris in 3 days
A 3 day trip to Paris during springtime allows you to combine famous monuments with neighbourhoods teeming with charm, and it will make for a more complete trip than the previous option. We also have a guide for you featuring this trip length!
Day 1 – Paris classics: explore the area around the Eiffel Tower, take a walk across the Champ de Mars, and move on towards the Champs-Élysées. In the afternoon, visit the Louvre or the Orsay Museum, and finish off your day with a cruise along the Seine.
Day 2 – charming quarters and gardens: devote your day to exploring Montmartre, walking up to the Sacré-Cœur, and losing yourself among the quarter’s streets. After that, you can walk down towards Saint-Germain-des-Prés and take a stroll across the beautiful Jardin du Luxembourg.
Day 3 – local culture and ambiance: begin at Le Marais and visit some of its museums or historic squares, and then move on towards the Canal Saint-Martin, where you can go on a picnic or have a bite next to the water.
Paris in 5 days
A 5 day trip to Paris during springtime will allow you to explore the city much more at ease, and even add some nearby day trips (you can read another complete guide here).
In addition to the previous plans, you can devote a day to discovering the gardens of the Palace of Versailles, which are especially striking during springtime. Another fine option is to visit Giverny, where Claude Monet’s house and gardens can be found.
With a longer visiting time, you can also explore less touristy neighbourhoods, enjoy parks such as Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, or spend a relaxed afternoon in terraces and cafés.
Should your trip be longer, we also have a complete guide to enjoy Paris in 7 days on our blog, with more relaxed routes, additional day trips, and a lot of time to discover the city.
Do not forget that you can discover Paris at our hands with any of our varied free tours!
Perfect spring trips (half a day or a full day)
Should you spend several days in the city, springtime is a fantastic moment to go on a trip from Paris. The gardens bloom, the weather tends to be pleasant, and plenty of nearby towns look particularly beautiful from March to May. These springtime getaways close to Paris are ideal to add variety to your trip if your stay will last for several days!
Gardens and palace of Versailles
The most popular day trip from Paris during springtime is visiting the Palace of Versailles because, throughout these months, its gardens begin to bloom. Taking a stroll across the palace’s huge parterres, canals, and woods is a lovely experience in April and May!
- Duration: half a day or a full day.
- Why visit during springtime: the gardens are greener, and it is more pleasant to walk.
- How to get there: RER C train from Paris up to the Versailles Château Rive Gauche station.

Giverny and Monet’s gardens
Another, very popular day trip during springtime is Giverny, the village where Impressionist painter Claude Monet lived. Its famous gardens and its iconic pond covered with water lilies inspired plenty of his works.
- Duration: a full day from Paris.
- Season: it is normally open from spring to autumn, and the gardens look particularly beautiful in April and May.
- What to see: the artist’s house, the flower garden, and the Japanese bridge upon the pond.

Reims and the Champagne region
For wine lovers, a getaway to Reims is an excellent option, given that this city in the heart of the Champagne region combines history, architecture, and food experiences.
- What to see: the impressive Reims Cathedral, where the kings of France were crowned.
- Highlighted experience: visiting a cellar and going on a champagne tour.
- How to get there: a high speed train from Paris (about 45 minutes).
Castles in the Loire Valley
Should you be looking for an even more ambitious getaway, the Loire Valley is renowned for its wonderful Renaissance castles surrounded by nature. During springtime, the valley’s gardens and landscapes are particularly verdant and blossomed! Among the most visited castles, you can find the Château de Chambord and the Château de Chenonceau.
- Duration: a long day trip from Paris.
- Tip: plenty of visits are carried out as organised tours, or combining train and car rides.
- Why visit during springtime: it is not as hot as in summer, and the gardens are in full bloom.
Tip: should you travel in spring, try to book these getaways a few days or weeks in advance, especially during weekends and bank holidays, because they are usually in high demand.
Paris in spring for every kind of traveller
Springtime in Paris offers plans for every kind of traveller! Whether you are travelling with your family, your partner, with friends, or on a tight budget, the city features experiences catering for every travelling style.
Families
Travelling to Paris in springtime with children is a great idea because the weather is usually pleasant, and there are plenty of open air venues for them to enjoy. Parks become veritable playgrounds, and plenty of cultural landmarks feature family friendly activities.
- Outdoors plan: spend your morning in the Jardin du Luxembourg, where there are playgrounds, puppet theatres, and venues to run or ride the little boats in the pond.
- Fun plan: take a boat ride along the Seine with a view on monuments such as the Eiffel Tower.
- Cultural plan: museums such as the Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, or some galleries in the Louvre Museum can be interesting if you choose a short visit.
Couples (romantic trip)
The city is universally known as a romantic destination for very good reason. Well then, Paris in springtime multiplies that charm! Its flowers, its light, and its terraces brimming with life make for the perfect stage for a couple trip.
- Outdoors plan: a picnic at dusk in the Champ de Mars with a view on the Eiffel Tower.
- Panoramic plan: walk up to the Montmartre viewpoints and take in the city views.
- Special plan: a night-time cruise along the Seine, or dinner in a terrace with a view on lit up monuments.
Friends
Travelling with friends in spring will allow you to bask in the local ambiance, explore neighbourhoods teeming with personality, and discover Parisian cuisine at ease and in a friendly atmosphere.
- Outdoors plan: take a walk across the Canal Saint-Martin, one of the most popular spots among Parisian youths to gather under the sunshine.
- Foodie plan: going on a food tour across neighbourhoods such as Le Marais, trying pastry shops, cheeses, and products at local markets.
- Evening plan: looking for a fine vantage point or a bridge across the Seine in order to watch the sunset together, and plan where to have dinner.
Backpackers or travellers on a tight budget
It is also possible to enjoy Paris in spring affordably. As a matter of fact, many of the best plans in the city are free of charge and, with some planning, you can considerably cut your expenses!
- Free plans: take a walk across parks such as the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, tread the banks of the Seine, or explore historic quarters on foot.
- Natural lookouts: walking up to Montmartre to have panoramic views without paying for costly tickets.
- Affordable meals: organise a picnic buying bread in a boulangerie and enjoy it in the gardens, or beside the river.
- Museums: some museums feature free admission during certain visiting hours or days, so you should double check carefully before your trip.
Useful tips (saving up, queues, visiting hours, and safety)
Travelling during this time of the year has many pros, but there are a few details that you ought to bear in mind. These tips to visit Paris in spring will help you save time, avoid queues, and enjoy your trip much more!
Book the most popular attractions in advance
Spring marks the beginning of the tourist season in the city, especially in April and May, so you should book some of the most visited landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, or Orsay, in advance. It is also advisable to book the cruises along the Seine, particularly during weekends, bank holidays, or festivities.
Best hours for pictures and walks
The spring light in Paris is particularly beautiful but, in order to enjoy it to its fullest, do so during these moments:
- First thing in the morning: iconic spots will not be as crowded, and you will enjoy soft lighting, ideal for pictures.
- During the golden hour: the moment right before sunset is perfect to take pictures in places such as the Trocadéro or the banks of the Seine.
How to avoid the queues in landmarks
Should you wish to avoid the queues in Paris, there are some easy tricks that work really well:
- Buy your tickets online with a fixed slot for museums and monuments.
- Visit the attractions first thing in the morning, or right before closing time.
- Prioritise working days instead of weekends.
This is particularly useful in very popular locations, such as the Louvre or the Eiffel Tower!
Changeable weather and allergies
The weather in Paris during springtime can change considerably throughout a single day, so it is advisable to dress in layers and always carry a light jacket or a raincoat, just in case an unexpected downpour rolls in. Should you be sensitive to pollen, it could also be a good idea to bring antihistamines (following a check up with your doctor), given that plenty of parks and gardens are in full bloom during this season.
Final tip to save up: many of the best plans in the city are free of charge, such as taking a walk across a park, exploring historic quarters, or enjoying a picnic by the Seine. So do not forget that Paris in spring can be inexpensive, if you need it to be.
| Month | Weather | Visitor flow | Best plans | Daily budget |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| March | 8–13 °C (mid 40s to mid 50s F). Cool, with a chance of light rain and overcast skies. | Medium-low | Museums, historic cafés, covered passageways, cruises along the Seine, walks along neighbourhoods such as Le Marais. | 120–180 € per person |
| April | 10–17 °C (50 to low 60s F). Visible spring, budding trees. Sun and brief, rainy spells. | Medium | Gardens, museums, flea markets, walks along Montmartre, picnics, and roofed galleries. | 140–200 € per person |
| May | 14–21 °C (high 50s to 70 F). Very pleasant weather, longer and sunnier days. | Medium-high | Terraces, picnics by the Seine, blossomed gardens, day trips to Versailles, bike rides, cultural events, and festivals. | 170–240 € per person |
FAQ — What to do in Paris during springtime
What is the weather like in Paris during springtime?
Springtime in Paris has mild, but fairly changeable weather. The temperatures usually range from 12 °C to 20 °C (from low 50s to high 60s F), with cool mornings and warmer afternoons. As the season unfolds, and especially during May, the days get longer and more pleasant for a walk.
Does it rain a lot in March / April / May?
Rainfall is relatively frequent in spring, particularly during March and April, but it normally happens as brief showers, rather than heavy rain throughout the entire day. Bring a small umbrella or a raincoat, and you are all set!
What clothes should I bring to Paris in spring?
It is ideal to dress in layers. Pack a light jacket or a coat in your suitcase, as well as a thin jumper or sweater, some essential T-shirts, comfortable shoes for a walk, and do not forget about your umbrella or raincoat!
When do cherry trees bloom in Paris?
Cherry trees usually bloom between late March and early April, although it heavily depends on the weather every year. Some of the best spots to watch them are the gardens near Notre-Dame, the Jardin des Plantes, and the Parc des Sceaux.
What should I do in Paris if it rains in spring?
Paris has lots of perfect plans for rainy days: you can visit museums such as the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay, or the Centre Pompidou, or else explore historic, covered passageways, make a stop at a Parisian café, or enjoy a culture show.
Is springtime a good season to visit Paris?
Yes, it is, springtime is one of the best seasons to visit Paris. Its parks and gardens are in full bloom, the weather is pleasant to stroll across the city, and there are still not as many tourists as during summertime.
Which day trips are worth it in spring?
Some of the best springtime day trips include visiting the Palace of Versailles in order to get to know its gardens, exploring the village of Giverny (where Claude Monet lived), or going on a route across the Champagne region, departing from Reims.
Is Paris expensive in spring?
Paris can be an expensive city at any time of the year but, precisely, springtime offers opportunities to balance out your budget. There are plenty of free plans, such as taking a walk across the Luxembourg Garden (or many others), enjoying the views from Montmartre, or going on a picnic by the Seine!
