A Parisian Year: How the City Changes With Each Season

Jenny Kakoudakis
Jul 9
4 min read

Like most of mainland Europe, Paris has four distinct seasons: winter, spring, summer, and autumn. There is plenty to do all year round in the French capital, no matter the season.

In winter, you'll be able to find la galette des rois (pastries filled with almond paste) and shopping sales everywhere you go. In the spring, you'll see the parks begin to bloom, and seasonal cafes start to open.

In summer, you'll witness the famous military parade down the Champs-Elysées to celebrate Bastille Day (the national day of France). Finally, in autumn, you'll see brief Halloween decorations before the city's department stores begin to work on their extravagant Christmas displays.

No matter when you choose to visit, you can get around Paris with GuruWalk and see the city's top sights alongside a local guide. Just remember, when embarking on a walking tour in summer, stay hydrated, and when joining in winter, wrap up warm.

This article will deep dive into how the French capital city changes with each season.

Eiffel Tower at sunset with a pink and blue sky, overlooking the Seine River and city skyline, creating a serene atmosphere.

Winter

When is winter in Paris? Winter in France runs from the 21st of December to the 21st of March, and it is a cold and rainy yet magical and romantic time to visit Paris. The season hosts Christmas, New Year's Eve, Valentine's Day, and Mardi Gras.

What is the weather in Paris during the winter season? The winter weather in Paris ranges from average lows of two degrees to average highs of 12 degrees, with January being the coldest month of the year. You might even see some snow if you visit the French capital in January or February.

What can I do in Paris during the winter months?

With the cold winter weather, you'll want to spend as much time as possible indoors. This makes winter a great time to explore Paris' main attractions, such as the Louvre Museum and the Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Snow-covered bench in a park with the Eiffel Tower in the background, a carousel nearby. Bright sunlight and bare trees create a chilly mood.

Spring

When is spring in Paris? Spring in France runs from the 21st of March to the 21st of June, and it is an excellent time to visit the capital. The season hosts April Fools Day (which involves Parisians sticking a paper fish to someone's back), the Paris Marathon, and Easter weekend.

What is the weather in Paris during the spring season?

The spring weather in Paris ranges from average lows of four degrees to average highs of 23 degrees, with May being the wettest month of the year.

What can I do in Paris during the spring months?

As spring begins, many cafes, ice cream shops, restaurants, and bars will open up their outdoor seating areas to tourists and locals alike. This will allow you to enjoy a drink or a bite to eat al fresco and take in the scenes of freshly blossomed flowers.

In addition, spring food festivals will be held along Rue Mouffetard, Paris' oldest and most picturesque street.

People relax on green chairs by a fountain in a park, with a Ferris wheel and trees in the background. The sky is cloudy.

Summer

When is summer in Paris? Summer in France runs from the 21st of June to the 21st of September, and it is a hot and busy time to visit the capital. The season hosts Bastille Day, Gay Pride, and the Techo Parade.

What is the weather in Paris during the summer season? The summer weather in Paris ranges from average lows of 11°C to average highs of 26°C, with July being the hottest month of the year.

What can I do in Paris during the summer months?

Whilst there is plenty to see and do in Paris, summer is a great time to relax on or by the water. The mayor's Paris Plages program sees temporary beaches, cafes, bars, and sporting activities pop up along the city's waterways. You can also swim or hire canoes, kayaks, and pedal boats at Bassin de la Villette, the city's largest artificial lake.

In addition, summer is an ideal time to enjoy a picnic at one of the capital's many parks and gardens, including those located right in front of the famous Eiffel Tower. Just remember to stay hydrated and consider setting up near a tree for when you need a bit of shade.

Paris street scene with people dining at a cafe adorned with vibrant red flowers. Cozy atmosphere, charm, and bustling city life.

Autumn

When is autumn in Paris? Autumn in France runs from the 21st of September to the 21st of December, and it is considered the most beautiful and least crowded time to visit Paris. This season hosts the harvest festival, Halloween, and the enticing buildup to Christmas.

What is the weather in Paris during the autumn season? The autumn weather in Paris ranges from average lows of 3°C to average highs of 21 °C.

What can I do in Paris during the autumn months?

Whilst early autumn is all about harvest and Halloween, by late autumn, you can experience the city's many Christmas Markets, which often run from mid-November to mid-December.

Understanding A Parisian Year

Paris is an excellent city to visit all year round. Choosing which season to visit depends on what you want to get out of your city break. If you want to see the city's plethora of Christmas markets and decorations, then visit in autumn.

However, if you want to enjoy some al fresco dining and go for a dip in the River Seine, then visit in summer.

Our writers like to blog about interiors. We launched the award-winning Seasons in Colour in 2015 and the luxury property and interior decor blog www.alltheprettyhomes.com in 2024 to cover all your interior design, travel and lifestyle inspiration needs. Download our free bathroom renovation guide here.