paris trip april 2023

Visiting Paris in April: Interesting & Inspiring Things to Do

Last Updated on April 29, 2024

Paris in April at the Jardin du Luxembourg/Pixabay

Are you planning a visit to Paris in April? Congratulations! Hate crowds? Hmm, I may just have to take back my congrats. As you probably know, the month suffers a bit from its own ridiculous popularity– not to mention its idyllic portrayal in Hollywood films. So if you’re intent on enjoying it to the fullest, you’ll have to be tolerant of the pack.

I also recommend that you abandon any and all images you may be harboring in your head that involve, say, Meg Ryan strolling through fields of daffodils with the Eiffel Tower looming behind, accordion music swelling in the background.

Trash the inflated expectations, and open your eyes to the small, and beautiful, details around you. Then, and only then, will you be able to fully enjoy this time of the year in the capital.

April at the Jardin des Tuileries in Paris, with views of the Louvre Museum. Image credit: Luke van Grieken/Creative Commons

Read related:   Make Your Springtime Trip to Paris Magical, But Keep it Real  

While April can be enchanting in the surreal, larger-than-life way you may be hoping for, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that it can also be expensive, noisy, and quite claustrophobic. High season resumes this month, so hotel stays, flights and train prices all go up.

You’l have to adjust your budget accordingly. Luckily, it’s also a time when being outside, even into the evening, is once again a pleasant prospect, and many outdoor activities are free or inexpensive. The sprawling spaces in certain less-trodden areas will also offer you some relief from the crowds, hopefully– read on for some suggestions.

To put it all rather simply, there are some very good reasons why so many visitors throng on the capital during the month lauded by poets and even by the one and only Josephine Baker.   But when a place (and time)  is too-loved and too-inflated, it can degrade or even cheapen the experience of it.

canal st martin

So don’t “just” be a tourist. Be a true urban and cultural explorer, determined to unearth some quiet or secretive beauty–  even if you spend lots of time in “iconic” places.

Again, look for small details in the familiar postcard scenes. I will pester you with this until it becomes your mantra. Defamiliarize the familiar: that’s how meaningful encounters with a place happen.

But enough pontificating! On to some practical and concrete suggestions for how to make the most of your trip.

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The Matter of the Mercury – April Weather & Packing Tips

Jardin des Plantes in Paris/Image by Courtney Traub/All rights reserved

In April, daytime temperatures in Paris are generally on the cool to “warmish”– but not truly warm– side. Rain is expected about nine days out of the month, and sometimes it comes down in torrents. The late afternoons and evenings can be pretty cold. A favorite (rhyming) French expression of mine warns of the unexpected chill, too: “ En avril, ne te découvre pas d’un fil” (In April, don’t take off a thread) .

As I’ve no doubt noted elsewhere, I find it charming and hilarious that so many Parisians take that maxim so literally, remaining encased up to their chins in thick scarves during the spring. But they do have a point. Layering is always a good idea , as nights are generally chillier, and sometimes even daytime temps can creep back toward winterish ones.

Minimum Temperature:  7 degrees C/44 degrees F Maximum Temperature:  15 degrees C/59  degrees F (in recent years, warmer highs have been common) Average temp:  11 degrees C/51.8 degrees F Average monthly precipitation: 45 mm/1.7 inches

In your suitcase, I’d recommend packing a few good sweaters, a spring coat that’s waterproof, a couple of moderately warm scarves and at least one pair of good, waterproof shoes for walking.

It can get pretty wet at this time of year, and you don’t want to be caught in a deluge unprepared– however romantic it may sound.

Best Things to See and Do in April?

My suggestions here are far from exhaustive, but here are a few inspiring ways to really  see the capital in the fourth month.

1. Get out and frolic in some green spaces

Parc Monceau in the spring/Wikimedia Commons

Ok, so the frolicking part is just a suggestion. This bit of advice is repeated in all of my spring calendars, but it’s unavoidable: who wouldn’t want to spend some time ambling through, or lounging around in, some of the most beautiful parks and gardens in the city?

As long as it isn’t pouring or irritatingly drizzly (the French like to call the latter une petite pluie de merde or “shitty little rain”), I’d recommend spending some time getting to know the winding romantic lanes, quaint ponds, elegant statues, lush trees and flowerbeds at the city’s many lovely green havens.

Parc Monceau  (pictured above; Metro: Monceau) is one of my favorites: with a long literary and artistic history, it features statues of writers including Guy de Maupassant (who referenced the park numerous times in his stories and novels), the composer Frederic Chopin, and the poet Alfred de Musset.

Other green spaces I love include the Promenade Plantée , a mile-long garden path built on a defunct railway above-ground and perfect for a long stroll around the Bastille district; the formerly royal Jardin des Tuileries , and the wildly popular but irresistible Place des Vosges in the Marais.

promenade plantee

Related : Idyllic Spots for Picnics in Paris, From Parks to Riverside Quays

Originally built for King Louis XIII and a favorite spot for enjoying a casual picnic of falafel and gelato as soon as spring rolls around, this elegant square is simply idyllic once the flowers bloom and the temperatures creep up. See my related piece on some of the better places for street food in the capital to find out where to procure the goodies I mention above.

Finally, the Parc de la Villette in the far corners of northeastern Paris doesn’t get a lot of footfall from tourists– but its fascinating thematic gardens, science and industry museum and Philharmonic orchestra offer more than mere greenery.

paris trip april 2023

Read more on gorgeous green spaces in the city– and how to take advantage of them in the springtime–here.  

Day Trips From Paris

You may also want to have a look at my full guide to some of the best places outside the Paris city limits for daylong excursions , from the lush gardens at Versailles and Giverny to medieval villages surrounded by sprawling fields or forests.

2. Wander through outdoor book stalls and flea markets.

Bouqinistes (outdoor booksellers) along the Seine have been present in Paris for centuries. Image credit: Amaianos/Creative Commons 2.0

Another thing that calls my name once the temperatures creep well above zero is to wander through outdoor book, antique and flea markets. Paris has an abundance of centuries-old stalls and markets that are as much a part of the cultural fabric of the city as its monuments are.

While some are widely known– such as the famous “ bouquinistes “ (independent booksellers) along the Seine with their deep green metal stands bursting with reading materials– others are a bit more off the beaten path, and frequented mostly by locals.

A women's monastery built in 630 was once located here. In 1360, King Charles V built an official residence, the Hôtel de Saint Pol, here. The site would serve the Parish of the Kings of France for nearly two centuries.

The weekend antique market at the Village St-Paul (pictured above; metro: St Paul) is one example of a quieter, but incredibly vibrant, spot to keep on your radar. Wander through its interconnected passageways on a Saturday or Sunday, and browse through antique coins, furniture, objets d’art and more.

Dating to as early as the 7th century, when the site harbored a nunnery, the Village St Paul was also once home to King Charles V, who had a residence built here in 1360. For the following two centuries, the royal French Parish had headquarters on the site.

A stall at the Puces de Vanves, in south Paris. Image: Schölla Schwarz [CC BY 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Otherwise, while many visitors know about the world-famous Puces de Clignancourt flea market to the extreme north of the city, the quieter, but equally fascinating, Puces de Vanves  in the far south is arguably more charming (and a tad less overwhelming).

Barter your heart out among the dozens of overflowing stalls at the Vanves flea market, or just amble through and revel in the interesting and sometimes downright-bizarre wares.

From old paintings, creepy antique dolls, records and books to commemorative silverware and porcelain depicting kings and queens of old, outdated gadgets and fine rugs, there’s a wealth of beauty and weirdness to behold.

A word of warning, however, the stall owners WILL often take issue with you photographing them or their items without permission. Sometimes, they refuse outright when you do ask, too.

Getting There: Metro Porte de Vanves (Line 13)

3. Explore less-trodden corners of the city 

The Butte aux Cailles is a residential, fascinating neighborhood in Paris whose art-deco architecture is a real draw card.

Of course, it goes without saying (I hope) that you should extend your wanderings to explorations of as many neighborhoods and quiet nooks of the city as you can manage.

See our full guide on what to see and do in all 20 Paris arrondissements (districts) for in-depth suggestions on places to get away from the crowds and see “ Paris au printemps ” through a fresh lens.

4. Soak up some art & culture: exhibits & shows in April 2024 

The city is fully emerging from the winter season   at this time of year, so galleries, museums and other major venues start to really get back into gear in April. Here are a couple of shows I particularly recommend in 2024.

“Les Orientalistes” at the Atelier des Lumières

paris trip april 2023

The Atelier des Lumières only opened its doors a few years ago, but in that time it’s drawn crowds of thousands to its immersive, “multisensory” shows– melding digital images, light and music to commemorate the work of artists such as Vincent Van Gogh, Gustav Klimt, or March Chagall.

The curators from the group Culturespaces– the collective behind all the shows at the Atelier- are at it again with a new multisensory exhibition exploring the “Orientalism” of the French painters Ingres, Renoir and Delacroix. T

Also on the program this year is a multimedia show exploring the historical legacy, mysteries and cultural practices of the Egyptian pharaohs . Both shows are attracting large crowds, so be sure to book your tickets sooner than later.

When: From February 9th, 2024 through January 5th, 2025 ( Book tickets here ) or buy timed entrance tickets here (via Tiqets) .

“The World as it Is” (at the Bourse de Commerce)

paris trip april 2023

This much-awaited show at the recently-opened Bourse de Commerce (home of the Pinault Collection) explores how some of the globe’s most celebrated artists view, and interpret, contemporary life and events.

{Related: The Best Small Museums in Paris}

The show sees a selection from the Pinault Collection’s some 10,000 works to focus on how contemporary artists grapple with (and in turn shape) the world that surrounds them.

Highlights include a monumental installation from Kismsooja in the museum’s central rotunda, creating a mirrorring effect that engages visitors as soon as they enter the space; works from Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman Damien Hirst, Maurizio Cattelan, and Doris Salcedo– among many others– await in the main exhibition rooms.

  • Location: Bourse de Commerce, Paris (see full guide)
  • When: Through September 23, 2024
  • You can purchase tickets for the show here (at the Bourse de Commerce).

Other Shows & Events

ArtParis

For anyone interested in contemporary art , April is a great month to be in town. The Art Paris Art Fair brings together some 130 galleries from around the world to showcase their acquisitions under a single roof.

Dates: In 2024, Art Paris runs from April 4th through April 7th at the Grand Palais Ephémère, near the foot of the Eiffel Tower on the Champ de Mars. See more info (including on how to buy tickets) here.

For a more complete list of exhibits, shows, and special events around town in April, see this page .

Book Your Trip: How to Prepare?

Especially when traveling in high season, planning ahead is essential. If you’re going by plane, search for deals on flights several months in advance ( via Skyscanner ). Taking the train? You can book tickets and discount passes at Rail Europe.  Also remember to read up on travel insurance options for France .

paris trip april 2023

You can see more on current safety guidelines for Paris, including updated information on current Covid-related travel regulations, at this page. 

Looking for a high-quality tour of Paris that matches your interests ? Consider browsing the selection of tours offered by GetYourGuide. They have a wide number of tours that should fit well with any budget and set of interests, from visits to popular museums to day trips, food and wine experiences.

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The full guide to April in Paris, from weather to what to see and do/Paris Unlocked

Courtney Traub is the Founder and Editor of Paris Unlocked. She’s a longtime Paris resident who now divides her time (as well as she can manage) between the French capital and Norwich, UK. Co-author of the 2012 Michelin Green Guide to Northern France & the Paris Region, she has been interviewed as an expert on Paris and France by the BBC, Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Le Figaro, Matador Network and other publications. Courtney has also written and reported stories for media outlets including Radio France Internationale, The Christian Science Monitor, Women’s Wear Daily and The Associated Press. In addition to going down various rabbit holes of curiosity when it comes to French culture, history, food and art, Courtney is a scholar of literature and cultural history whose essays and reviews have appeared in various forums.

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What to Do in Paris in April

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Best Things to Do in Paris in April

To discover the best things to do Paris in April, all you need to do is step outdoors and enjoy the city's legendary beauty as magnolias, cherry trees, and daffodils burst into bloom. 

Planning to Visit Paris during April?

Consider booking your "bucket list" tours and activities now to get your top choices.

Top Paris attractions & experiences:

  • Tootbus Hop-on Hop-off Discovery Bus Tour - See top Paris attractions
  • Eiffel Tower Entry Ticket with Optional Summit Access  - An iconic experience
  • Louvre Museum Masterpieces Skip-the-Line Guided Tour - Most popular choice 

Most popular Paris destinations this month:

  • Skip-the-Line Versailles Palace Tour by Train from Paris - Top choice
  • Disneyland Paris 1-Day Ticket - Favorite family-friendly day trip
  • Montmartre Cheese, Wine, & Pastry Guided Walking Tour - A favorite!

Sidewalk seating at cafes and brasseries fill up with locals on balmy days, and you'll want to claim your own table in a sunny spot and linger over a café crème or glass of wine.   Or buy perfectly ripe strawberries, bread, and cheese at an outdoor market and head to a nearby park or the Seine River banks for an impromptu picnic. 

If you're a Paris visitor, you'll want to pack in plenty of sightseeing.   April is an ideal time to explore Paris by bike, take a leisurely cruise down the Seine River, and gaze at the city's skyline from a rooftop terrace or observation deck.   Caught in an April shower and wondering what to do?  Head to a historic covered passage lined with boutiques and bistros, join a wine tasting group, or explore one of the city's smaller museums.

Visiting Paris in April lets you benefit from budget-friendly "shoulder season" hotel rates and apartment rentals and visit famous attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Monet's home and garden at Giverny without vying for space with the masses of tourists who start to arrive as the busy summer season approaches.

The Paris weather in April can be ideal - but it's often unpredictable, with sudden showers followed by bright sunshine and temperatures typically ranging from balmy to chilly.  You'll want to pack clothes to wear - or shed - in layers, and carry a small folding umbrella.

Is April a good time to visit Paris?   In a word, yes - especially if you want to avoid crowds of tourists during the summer months, find plenty of things to do outdoors as well as inside, and experience the intoxicating beauty of Paris in the spring.

Quick links to topics in this article:  - Fun Things to Do in April - Weather & Packing Tips for April - Where to Stay in April

Find top April events in Paris 

Top photo:  Cherry trees in bloom near Parc Georges Brassens in the 15th arrondissement of Paris, (c) Paris Discovery Guide

Paris Discovery Guide is a reader-supported publication.  When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost for you.  Learn more

What to Do & See in Paris in April

1.  explore paris on wheels during april.

Segway tour: fun way to get to best places to visit in Paris in April

If you're visiting Paris in April, a perfect way to see the city's best attractions and lesser-known treasures while enjoying the spring weather is on a 1-hour Segway tour .  You'll glide past famous monuments including the Eiffel Tower, down the Champs Elysees, and past the Seine River as your guide entertains you with insider tips about Paris. 

To stay dry while seeing Paris during April showers, choose a guided excursion in a classic vintage Mercedes.   In addition to the famous sights like Notre Dame and the Grand Palais, you'll see picturesque neighborhoods like Saint Germain des Prés  as well as lesser known places such as the magnificent Saint Sulpice church.   Finish your tour in style with wine tasting in the Latin Quarter.

For even more fun, check out these bike tours of Paris - including electric bikes!

2.  Relax as You Admire April Flowers in a Paris Park

Magnolias and spring bulbs blooming in Palais Royal Garden in Paris in early April

With almost 500 professionally tended public parks and gardens scattered across the city, you'll have no difficulty finding beautiful spring flowers to admire during Aprilui. 

In central Paris, some of the best spots to find the biggest displays of magnolias, cherry trees, daffodils, and tulips blooming in April include Palais Royal Garden (shown in photo) and Tuileries Garden near the Louvre, Parc Monceau in the 8th arrondissement, Luxembourg Garden in the 6th, and the  Jardin des Plantes (Botanical Garden) in the 5th. 

No matter how packed your schedule is, do what Parisians do:  pick a favorite park, find a bench, and spend just a few minutes each day enjoying the beauty of the season.

For an unforgettable experience, visit Monet's spectacular garden at Giverny which opens in April for the season with an exuberant display of flower bulbs, cherry and crab apple tree, forget-me-nots, and other spring flowers. 

3.  Visit Famous Paris Attractions in April Before Summer Crowds Arrive

fel Tower viewed from the Seine River

With relatively few tourists in Paris during April, this is the perfect month to visit the city's most famous sights.  Choose a skip-the-line guided tour by elevator up to the second floor and summit of the Eiffel Tower, where you'll see the city from a different perspective. 

Tour the Louvre Museum with an expert guide who will show you famous masterpieces, including the Mona Lisa, and then explore on your own for as long as you'd like. 

Or perhaps explore the flamboyant gold and mirrored Opera Garnier (Paris Opera House), the largest opera hall in Europe.

4.  Picnic in a Paris Park during April

Square du Vert-Galant on Ile de la Cité in Paris

What's the perfect Paris activity when the sun is shining overhead and the air is balmy?  A picnic in the park, where you'll be surrounded by plenty of Parisians doing the same thing. 

First, gather your supplies:  buy a baguette at a neighborhood bakery, cheese from a fromagerie (cheese shop), fruit at a produce market (fresh strawberries are fantastically good in April), and a bottle of your favorite Chablis or Beaujolais from a wine shop. 

Not sure which wine to choose?  Just point to your bread and cheese, and ask for suggestions; also get the wine uncorked unless you have a corkscrew.  Don't forget to bring a knife to cut the cheese and a small plastic glass for your wine (although if you're under 30 or so, you can drink straight from the bottle without being conspicuous).

Now, head to a park to savor your feast.  Square du Vert-Gallant at the western tip of Île de la Cité is a local favorite, as are the parks along each side of the Seine River and Canal Saint-Martin.  But you can find excellent spots at almost any other city park - just avoid Champ de Mars, as public consumption of alcohol is sometimes forbidden there.

5.  Cruise the Seine River

Seine River cruise boat heading toward Pont Royal bridge

A Seine River cruise lets you see Paris from a different perspective during April.  You'll glide under the famous centuries-old bridges and see their ornate carvings up close, you'll pass famous attractions, get fantastic views of the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame, and feel the joie de vivre of relaxing as you watch the ever-changing shoreline drift by.

So many different "flavors" of river cruises are on offer that you can choose the experience you want:  a midday cruise to soak up sun on the open-air top deck, a fancy gourmet dinner cruise in a climate-controlled glass cabin, an "illuminations" night cruise.   Book your favorite Seine River cruise

6.  Experience Live Classical Music in Paris's Most Beautiful Churches in April

paris trip april 2023

Paris's centuries-old historic churches make the perfect setting for some of the city's finest classical music performances.  From lovely intimate chapels such as Église Saint Ephrem to the soaring vaulted heights of Saint Germain des Prés to the breath-taking stained glass of Saint Chapelle, each of these special places frame the music in an unforgettable way. 

What will you hear?  Everything from classical compositions to baroque, choral music to Gregorian chants, and occasionally even jazz and American spirituals.  Tickets are affordably priced. 

Find out what's on during April

April Concert Schedule & Tickets

Paris concerts during April include classical music by candlelight at Sainte-Chapelle and other beautiful historical churches, wonderful ballets and operas at Palais Garnier and Opera Bastille, and popular artists performing at top music halls and arenas.  Get your tickets now:

Paris concerts - other months:    January   |  February   |  March   |  May   |  June   |  July   |  August   |  September   |  October   |  November   |  December

7.  Is Visiting Disneyland Paris during School Vacation Weeks in April a Good Idea?

Outdoor tables Rue Buci in Paris's 6th arrondissement in early April

Disneyland Paris attracts many visitors during the last three weeks in April and the first week in May, when French and other European schools release their students for spring holidays.

So should you visit Disneyland Paris during April?  Or will it be too crowded? 

The entrance gates are usually the only place where you may experience crowds.  Once you're inside, the park does not feel crowded and lines at the rides move quickly.  

To reduce your wait at the gates, get an express entry ticket in advance - always a good idea, because once the park fills to capacity (which usually happens), only people with advance tickets can enter.

Disneyland Paris in April

8.  See the Best Cherry Blossoms in Paris

Outdoor tables Rue Buci in Paris's 6th arrondissement in early April

Cherry blossoms reach their peak during April all over Paris, especially when the gorgeous deep-pink Kwanzan cherries open up their fluffy blooms. 

Find the best 27 locations (with addresses & directions) to see gorgeous cherry blossoms in Paris

9.  Soak up April Sun at a Sidewalk Cafe

Outdoor tables Rue Buci in Paris's 6th arrondissement in early April

To truly experience the Parisian life, find a table outside a Paris bistro, brasserie, or cafe.   Whether you're savoring a café crème and croissant for breakfast, enjoying steak-frites for lunch, or lingering over a glass of pastis or kir apéritif and slices of tasty saucisson, smoked almonds, and olives during apéro hour in the early evening, the most important thing is to relax and enjoy the good life.

You'll find outdoor dining in every neighborhood, practically every street - but to find lots of choices clustered together, head to any of Paris's (mostly) pedestrian-only market streets:  Rue Cler near the Eiffel Tower in the 7th arrondissement, Rue Montorgueil near Les Halles in the 1st and 2nd, Rue de Buci in the 6th near Place Saint Michel, and Place du Marché Saint-Honoré in the 1st near Place Vendome and Rue Saint-Honoré.

More ways to explore Paris neighborhoods:

10.  Spend a Day Exploring Bruges, Belgium

Bruges's Markt, or central market square, on a sunny April afternoon

Sometimes called "the Venice of the North," Bruges looks like it stepped out of a movie set in the Middle Ages with its medieval Flemish architecture, quaint cobblestone streets, winding tree-shaded canals, and photo-worthy bridges. 

Thanks to this comfortable coach tour from Paris, you can get there and back in one day  and still have plenty of time to explore the compact city.  A guide leads you on a walk through the city center and points out the famous cathedral, museums, and other important sites. 

After your guided tour, you're free to take a boat cruise along the picturesque canals (the ticket is included with your tour), photograph the famous Grote Markt (market square) lined with colorful buildings, and admire the town's fabulous architecture.

For lunch, savor steamed mussels with fries and a mug of Belgium beer, and then buy Belgium chocolates at a local shop before heading back to Paris. 

Reserve your place on this tour

Find more day trips from Paris

Should You Plan Rainy Day Activities for Paris in April?

Most definitely yes!  Paris gets rain during every month of the year and April is no exception.  So you should always have a few rainy day activities in mind for your Paris trip.

For quick showers, just duck into a cafe or bar for a quick espresso until the skies clear.  But for longer stretches of wetness, try the next 4 suggestions for rainy days in Paris.

11.  Explore a Covered Passage

Galerie Vero-Dodat, one of the most elegant Paris covered passages

Built in the 19th century to keep wealthy Parisians dry and mud-free while they shopped, these beautiful  historical glass-roofed arcades today are lined with shops, cafes, and wine bars.  Each has its own character, and some are more restored and upscale than others. 

See Paris's best & most beautiful covered passages

One of the best is Galerie Vero-Dodat, close to the Louvre Museum and Palais Royal Garden in the 1st arrondissement.  Built in Neoclassical style in 1826 by two butchers, it features swoon-worthy posh antique shops, luxury boutiques including two Christian Louboutin showrooms, and a couple of popular bistros with patio seating that's always in high demand. 

Look for Galerie Vero-Dodat between Rue Bouloi and Rue de Jean-Jacques Rousseau.

Find out about all of Paris's covered passages

12.  See a Special Exhibition

Most of Paris's museums and exhibition halls host special exhibits during the spring.  Depending on the focus of the museum or other venue, they can be on art, history, science, technology, or just about any other topic  - there's always something of interest going on. 

Find an up-to-date exhibition schedule here.

13.  Rainy April Day?  Visit a Specialty Museum

This sculpture of a stylishly-dressed minotaur on a wall outside the Picasso Museum in Paris evokes of Picasso's favorite symbols

When an April showers threatens to dampen your day, head to one of Paris's numerous small specialty museums - perfect for spending an hour or two before the sun reappears.

Located in a gorgeous restored 17th century private mansion named Hôtel Salé in the Marais neighborhood, the Picasso Museum features special exhibits and art by famous Spanish artist Pablo Picasso as well as from his personal collection of African art and works by others including Renoir, Degas, Rousseau, and Matisse. 

Get your priority entrance ticket online to avoid the often lengthy (and slow) regular line.

When the rain clears up, treat yourself to a hot chocolate on the cafe terrace overlooking the courtyard, and then go outside to admire all the architectural details up close. 

Want to see more of the nearby surroundings in this quiet corner of the Marais?  As you leave the museum, head around the corner to Rue Payenne and check out its small parks and garden where drops of rain still cling to the many spring flowers.

Poppies and tulips in Square Leopold Achille on Rue Payenne near Musee Picasso

14.  Savor Wine, Cheese, & Pastries in Montmartre

Rain or shine, you'll have a lot of fun on this unique food and wine tasting tour through the storied Montmartre neighborhood , once home to starving artists and musicians and today, a favorite of foodies.  As you explore the cobblestone lanes and small shops, you'll sample pastries, artisan chocolates, cheese, charcouterie, and wine!  Reserve your spot now

Check out these walking tours of Paris with food tastings:

More Paris food tours & experiences

15.  Flea Markets, Vintage Markets, Brocantes, & More

Visit to the costume creation studio at the Opéra National de Paris

If you're a fan of shopping for vintage items, a fun activity for April is to check out the pop-up markets, street markets, and brocante sales of vintage and second-hand goods that appear all over Paris this month.

Most pop-up markets take place over 2-4 days, and almost all offer free admission.  You can find them in about every neighborhood, and the best way to find them is to look for signs posted along the streets advertising "brocantes."   They usually appear anywhere from a couple of days to as much as a week before the event.

Best places to shop for vintage clothing in Paris:   Marais, especially along Rue de Rivoli; Rue de Martyrs neighborhood in 9th arrondissement - don't miss the shops on Rue Clauzel; and Montmartre, especially on some of the side streets off Rue des Abbesses.

Find more Paris flea markets with vintage treasures

16.  Check Out Top Paris Events for April

Fountain in the Versailles Palace Garden - Photo credit: istockphoto.com/Melissa Fox

Some of the best things to do in Paris in April include top events such as the Paris Marathon, a huge "fun fair" dating back to the early Middle Ages, the seasonal beginning of Musical Gardens Shows at the Palace of Versailles, and exciting exhibitions in all the museums.

Find out more about April events in Paris

17.  More Fun Things to Do & See in Paris in April

More about paris in april.

  • Top April Events in Paris
  • Top Things to Do in Paris in April
  • Easter in Paris
  • Paris Weather during April
  • Best Things to Do in Paris in the Spring
  • Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms
  • Concerts in Paris during April : Classical, Rock, Pop, More!
  • Where to Watch the Paris Marathon

Prepare for Your April Visit:  Weather & Packing Tips

Weather in paris in april:  what to expect.

What's the best word to describe Paris weather in April?   "Unpredictable." 

With sunny blue skies one minute and showers the next, the weather will keep you guessing.

Although the average high temperature in Paris in April is 62°F (17°C) and the average low is 45°F (7°C), keep in mind that those are averages.   When planning your activities and packing (more about what to pack for Paris in April in a moment), consider that you might encounter more extreme temperatures - perhaps as high as 72°F (22°C) or as low as 35°F (2°C).  If the thermometer hits those extremes, Paris can be cold in April - or hot.

Find out more about the weather in Paris during April

Packing Tips for Visiting Paris in April:  What to Bring

Wondering how to dress in Paris in April?  The one-word answer is:  layers - a must because April weather can change in a heartbeat. 

Pack a couple of lightweight tops to wear alone in case of a mini-heat wave or use as extra layers, along with long-sleeved tops, a warm sweater (cashmere works well), and a lined jacket or coat such as a trench, always in fashion in Paris, or a compressible lightweight water-resistant puffer jacket that will take up almost no room in your suitcase.  

Tuck a warm scarf and perhaps gloves into your bag.  And don't forget to take a pair or two of warm socks, plus a small folding umbrella.

Choosing the right shoes to bring is important: include a pair or two that are waterproof or at least water-resistant, and also comfortable for walking.  Should you bring rain boots?  That's probably overkill, unless you have a lightweight pair of comfortable ankle boots.

Will you be able to shop in Paris for anything you should have packed, but didn't?  Absolutely, if you need more lightweight spring clothing because summer collections will be featured in the stores.  But if you want cold-weather clothing - a wool sweater, fleece jacket, warm scarf - you'll be out of luck.  So carefully choose what to pack and make sure each item can do double-duty during the changeable April weather.

Find out more about the weather in Paris during April and packing suggestions

Where to Stay during April in Paris 

To fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Paris this month, stay in a hotel or apartment near one of the city's magnificent flower-filled parks  such as Palais Royal Garden, Luxembourg Garden, Parc Monceau, and Tuileries Garden and carve out a few minutes every day to spend in "your" garden.  Go for a stroll, listening to the water in the fountains, or just lean back in a chair and soak up some sun. 

Bonus:  These parks and gardens are also close to other top Paris attractions.

Featured Hotel for April:  Canopy Paris Trocadero

View of the Eiffel Tower from the rooftop terrace and bar at Canopy Hotel Trocadero

Why:   By April, the weather will be warm enough to enjoy the superb Eiffel Tower views as you sip a glass of champagne on Canopy Paris Trocadero Hilton's expansive rooftop terrace.

What else:  There's a lot more to love at the Art Deco-inspired 4-star hotel - although if you book yourself into one of the rooms or suites with its own private balcony overlooking the iconic Tower, you may never get around to exploring the rest of the property.

Find a Paris Hotel or Apartment for Your April Visit

Want to look at other accommodations?  Use this hotel booking map to find hotels and apartments during your travel dates: 

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April 2023 Inspiring Itinerary: The Perfect Parisian Vacation – Paris and Disneyland Paris

Gina Pantina

Table of Contents

Honestly, does anyone ever need to ask “Why Paris?” Probably not, because Paris most likely has a place on almost everyone’s Travel Bucket List. As one of the most famous and well known cities in the world, a trip to Paris always feels like a fabulous idea. 

Home to iconic art and architecture, such as the Eiffel Tower and DaVinci’s Mona Lisa, Paris draws over thirty-million visitors each year: couples in love want to experience the “City of Romance” with their sweetheart, world travelers know this historic city is a must-visit destination, and families love the perfect mix of culture, education and fun! 

Paris Street Sign

Of course, while stops to the Eiffel Tower and the Mona Lisa are a quintessential part of the Parisian experience, there is SO MUCH more to Paris that should be part of your visit, from strolling around Sacre Coeur, to people watching from a cafe along the Champs Elysees, to a bike tour of the city, Paris is the perfect city to explore with your family. 

DLP Sleeping Beauty Castle

Why Disneyland Paris?

While Paris has tons to offer any travel enthusiast, for Disney fans, topping off a trip to Paris with a few days at Disneyland Paris is absolutely the icing on the cake of an amazing vacation. Just like the Parks at Walt Disney World in Florida and those at Disneyland in California are similar in so many ways, but also offer unique experiences and each have their own “vibes,” the Disney Parks around the world also provide a magically familiar, yet somehow distinct experience to visitors. 

With the proximity of Disneyland Paris to one of the most visited cities in the world (Paris, obviously), a few days at one of Disney’s Parks outside of the United States is well within reach, and the perfect add-on to your Parisian Vacation!

Seine River Cruise with Eiffel Tower

Your adventure in the “City of Lights” will aptly begin with a sparkling experience on the Seine, but first, upon arriving at the airport, you’ll be chauffeured to your luxury hotel in the center of the city. You’ll have time to settle in and freshen up, and depending on your arrival time, maybe even explore the area a bit before your evening activity: a Dinner Cruise on the River Seine. You’ll be treated to traditional French cuisine as you float along the Seine, taking in the illuminated architecture of the city, ending with the sparkling lights of the Eiffel Tower. A perfect welcome, yet not too long or late as you adjust to Paris time!

Jamie and Fam with Eiffel Tower

Now that you’re well rested after your travel day, it’s time to get out and explore the city. While the whole city is probably too spread out to tour just by walking, a great way to see some of the most popular sites is by taking a Bike Tour! Jamie and her family absolutely loved their Bike Tour of Paris last summer; in fact, it was Jamie’s #1 “Must Do” on her Paris “Do”s and “Don’t”s list. Not only do you get a great tour of the city, but you also get to peruse the local food markets, and make your own picnic lunch not far from the Eiffel Tower. 

Paris Photo Shoot

And with the Eiffel Tower as your backdrop, what could be better than a photo shoot to capture yourself and your family with Paris’s most famous landmark? Jamie and her family had so much fun going all out with their photo shoot by the Eiffel Tower, and you can do the same! Or, if you really want to mark the occasion, you can even hire a professional photographer to capture your Parisian adventure! For dinner, your hotel concierge will be able to recommend excellent choices in the area for your enjoyment!

Sacre Coeur Paris

Today you’ll start your morning with some free time, perhaps to get some shopping in, or even just to enjoy an espresso and croissant at a local cafe (maybe with a chocolate croissant treat for the kiddos). Your afternoon will bring you to Montmartre, the famed bohemian artist district bursting with creativity, where you will meet up with your local expert guide. 

Montmartre Cafe

First, you’ll ascend the steep hill of Montmartre on a funicular ride that will bring you up to Sacre Coeur, a Roman Catholic church situated on the highest point of the city. Your guide will show you around the Byzantine Basilica before walking you through the artist enclaves of the Montmartre district. You’ll walk in the footsteps of painting giants such as Monet, Picasso and Van Gogh, all the while observing present-day artists at work on the streets and sidewalks; who knows, maybe you’ll even pass by the next Monet?

After your walking tour, you’ll be brought to a wine tasting experience, complete with grape juice samples for the kids. From there, you’ll head back to your hotel, where a special dinner will be hosted for travelers. 

Eiffel Tower

Once again, you’ll have the morning of your choice, whether it’s relaxing at the hotel after yesterday’s walking tour , or maybe walking to a local street market to explore the food and flowers offered. Then the real excitement of your day will begin with lunch at the Eiffel Tower! Yes, that’s right, the Eiffel Tower isn’t just for climbing to the top (though of course that will come later), the famous landmark also offers unique dining with the best view in the city! You’ll enjoy lunch on the first floor, then keep climbing up to the second floor observatory, and then continue up by elevator to the very top and final level. Words cannot even describe what it’s like to be at the top of the Eiffel Tower; be sure to break from the pictures and selfies for a moment to take it all in! 

Eiffel Tower First Floor

Once your visit to the Eiffel Tower is complete (you can check off that Bucket List experience!), you’ll make your way to a Gourmet Chocolate Museum and Workshop. Here you’ll learn some of the secrets of French chocolatiers through an interactive demonstration, and then get to try some chocolate-making yourself! Of course there will be ample taste-testing along the way. With much of the day filled with fantastic cuisine, you may decide that a simple cafe snack is in order, or perhaps take an evening stroll before a later dinner. Whatever you prefer, your guide will have the best recommendations.

Jamie & Fam at Louvre

When you’re in Paris, it’s one day after another of famous landmarks and works of art that everyone in your family has likely grown up hearing about. With the Eiffel Tower checked off the list, first up on the list today is the Louvre. With your private guide to bring you to the front of the line, and also navigate one of the largest museums in the world, you’ll see thousands of famous works of art, including, of course, Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa . Your Louvre visit will take up the first half of your day, leaving you free for lunch right after. Why not enjoy some pastries and the most famous hot chocolate in the world at Angelina’s, right down the street from the Louvre? You won’t regret it, I promise!

Notre Dame

Setting out again for the afternoon, your expert guide will bring you to the breathtaking Cathedral of Notre Dame. Although repairs are still being made after the devastating fire a few years ago, the Cathedral is still worth seeing from the outside, and for a photo opportunity, even from afar. Then, you will tour the Opera Garnier, the premier opera house and ballet company in France, founded by Louis XIV in the 1600s. Following your tour, your guide will have recommendations for dinner, depending on your preferences!

Versailles Hall of Mirrors

Today you will venture out of the city! A trip to Paris would hardly be complete without a day trip to Versailles, and the Palace where King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette lived in luxury and opulence. Again with your private guide, you’ll tour the palace, including the royal apartments and the Hall of Mirrors, and you’ll get an up close look at the gilded details that make the Palace a real life fairy tale “castle.” 

Versailles Window

You’ll break for lunch at a restaurant overlooking the Grand Canal of Versailles where famous fountains will entertain the kiddos as you have a leisurely afternoon meal. Then, you’ll head out for a bicycle tour of the famous Gardens of Versailles. This bike tour will help you cover more ground, since the Gardens are so expansive, and you’ll get to see more of the beautiful fountains and flowers and hedges that make up the property. This tour is one Jamie herself wishes she had done while on her Parisian Vacation, and one she plans not to miss next time she’s there! 

After your day out, you’ll head back into the city for your Farewell to Paris dinner, hosted at your hotel. 

DLP Hotel

You’ll have one last breakfast to enjoy at your hotel before transferring to a Disney hotel of your choice at Disneyland Paris! Disney’s Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel, is the the only Marvel-themed Disney Hotel in the world, and is a great choice for superhero enthusiasts, while Disney’s Newport Bay Club is a perfect option for those who prefer a more nautical, beachy setting. 

DLP Entrance

After settling in, you’ll have plenty of the day left to start your Disneyland Paris Parks experience! In Jamie’s Destination “Do”s and “Don’t”s of Disneyland Paris, she recommended 2-3 days to in the Parks to be able to experience everything Disneyland Paris has to offer, so between today, and your next two days in the Parks, you’ll have the perfect amount of time! One key element to experiencing everything you’re hoping to in Disneyland Paris is to purchase the Disney Premier Access Ultimate Pass; it’s similar to purchasing Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane Passes at WDW, but the Ultimate Pass gets you on the shorter line for all of the rides without reservations. And, for some reason, this “skip the longer line” option isn’t super popular with Europeans, so it’s very worth it for how much waiting it cuts out throughout the Parks. 

Of course, as with any Disney Destination, you’ll want to have your dining choices made ahead of time. And, one of the most amazing experiences at Disneyland Paris is the nighttime fireworks show, Disney Illuminations, at Sleeping Beauty Castle, so definitely plan to end your day watching that each night!

Disneyland Paris Castle

Your first full day in the Parks of Disneyland Paris! Depending on what attractions you were able to get to yesterday, you can plan your first full day to include all of the “Must-Do” attractions on your list, such as Crush’s Coaster (in Walt Disney Studios Park) and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (in Disneyland Park). Going back and forth between Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park is fully allowed in Disneyland Paris with tickets of two days or more (though Park reservations are still necessary; don’t worry, your favorite Love of the Magic Vacations Travel Advisor will be able to help with these details). 

DLP Hollywood Studios

One of Jamie’s “Must-Do”s for Disneyland Paris is to compare all of your State-side favorites, like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, with their European counterparts to see which you like best! Jamie’s family unanimously agreed that Disneyland Paris BTMRR is the best, but you get to make your own decision, of course!

DLP Big Thunder Mountain

For dinner, you can head to a reservation you have either in the Parks, or in Disney Village, the downtown area filled with restaurants and shops, much like Disney Springs in Orlando. And if you haven’t checked out Disney Village yet, this evening would be a great time to check it out before catching Disney Illuminations by the castle again to top off the night!

Jamie and Fam at DLP

With one last day in Disneyland Paris, you’ll be able to make it to any attractions you haven’t yet checked off your list, and, once you get to everything, you’ll be able to relax a bit more for your final hours in the Parks. Whether that means circling back to some favorites for one more ride, or finding and meeting characters, or strolling through the Parks enjoying some of the Parisian treats available, or shopping for the souvenirs you want to remember your trip by, you’ll be able to spend the last full day of your vacation in the way that suits you and your family best. 

DLP Illuminations

A great way to top off your Disneyland Paris experience is to have a character meal as your Farewell Dinner (your favorite Love of the Magic Vacations Travel Advisor can plan this ahead for you), and spend one last evening watching Disney Illuminations outside of Sleeping Beauty Castle. Maybe even treat yourself to a celebratory glass of champagne!

Eiffel Tower Shadow over Paris

Leaving the “City of Lights” and Disneyland all at once makes it doubly hard for this Perfect Parisian Vacation to end! At least returning to the States will make Walt Disney World and Disneyland feel even closer after crossing an ocean to visit Disneyland Paris! And the best way to get over those Post-Disney Blues is always to plan another trip to look forward to! And if you fell in love with Paris (as most people do), there’s always the France Pavilion in EPCOT you can visit until your next European Adventure!

Jamie on the Seine

Ready to Plan?

If you are ready to plan The Perfect Parisian Vacation, contact your Love of the Magic Travel Agent today, or email [email protected] .  Don’t forget to check out Jamie’s Destination “Do”s and “Don’t”s for Paris and Disneyland Paris before you go! And of course, whether you want to travel to Paris and Disneyland Paris, or other parts of France, or even other Disney Parks around the world, your LOTMV Travel Advisor will work with you to create the unique experience you’re looking for. 

Looking for more of our Inspiring Itinerary series?

You can find links to all of 2022’s Inspiring Itineraries in this Blog: A Year of Inspired Travel: 2022’s Inspiring Itineraries, Month by Month . 

Just like last year, a new Inspiring Itinerary will come out each month!

So far, we have:

January 2023: The Perfect Themed Vacation, by Land and by Sea

February 2023: The Perfect Romantic Escape to Jamaica

March 2023: The Perfect Foodie-Inspired Vacation to Portugal

And don’t forget to check out our Friday Blog Series: Jamie’s Destination “Do”s and “Don’t”s, where our favorite Travel Planning Aficionado shares her wealth of knowledge and experiences about traveling the world! You can find links to all of Jamie’s 2022 Travel Tips at this Blog: Jamie’s 2022 Destination “Do”s and “Don’t”s: A Recap . 

Ready to plan The Perfect Parisian Vacation? Contact your Love of the Magic Vacations Travel Advisor today or email [email protected]  

The Perfect Parisian Vacation

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Gina Pantina

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April in Paris is so magical they even write songs about it. Springtime here may bring showers, but also days of glorious sunshine. So, let's take a look at four dozen of the best tours, Seine dinner cruises , museum exhibitions, and events in Paris — during a brand new Spring in Paris !

Things to Do in Paris – April 2024

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Christmas Dinner Cruise

Paris looks its best from a bateau cruising down the Seine River. Especially when you're enjoying a classic French meal with wine. Sit back at your private table and relax during this scenic dinner cruise as you see Paris from a different perspective, with all the famous landmarks lit up for your viewing pleasure. We know it costs more, but choose the Service Privilège option for the best seating, the best meal, and champagne — the ultimate experience.

Experience the Magnificence of Versailles

Versailles Guided Tour & Grand Canal Gourmet Lunch

Versailles is a magnificent reminder of the glory of France's royal history. April is an ideal month to take a trip to see the palace, with the gardens coming into bloom. But, do it the easy & leisurely way — with a guided tour from Paris. Your guide takes you right past the long ticket lines and into the palace and gardens, making the past come alive with stories of those bygone days.

Maxim's of Paris Seine Dinner Cruise

Maxim's of Paris

Maxim's of Paris first opened its Art Nouveau doors in 1900 for the Paris Universal Exposition. Now, you can experience the classic dishes made famous at the historic turn-of-the-century brasserie while on a Seine River dinner cruise — think lobster, truffles and fresh seafood. Drift past world-class monuments all aglow at night.

Discover the Masterpieces of the Louvre

Skip-the-Line Louvre Museum Guided Tour

The Louvre is very popular, with long line-ups. We recommend a priority-access tour that gets you past the crowds and into the museum. View the most famous works of art — Venus de Milo, Winged Victory of Samothrace, and of course, the Mona Lisa. After the tour you have plenty of time to wander at your own pace. Also available as a private tour.

Skip the Lines at the Eiffel Tower

Eiffel Tower Skip-the-Line Tour

Choose the easy, priority way to get to the top. There are always long lines at the Eiffel Tower — it is the most popular monument in the world. But, there are ways to avoid standing in line for hours and, luckily, we've found a few. You're in Paris to have fun, not to languish in line, so be sure to book a skip-the-line Eiffel Tower tour before you leave home.

Bateaux Mouches Dinner Cruise + Live Music

Dinner Cruise + Live Music

Indulge your inner romantic when you're in the City of Love. Reserve a table on a bateau for an evening dinner cruise to view the City of Lights at its most magical. While you dine on a 4-course classic French dinner, accompanied by live music on-board, you slowly float past the most famous illuminated landmarks — Louvre, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower.

Classical Music in Paris

Classical Music in Paris

One of our best Insiders tips for travelers to Paris is to attend a classical music concert . This April there's a lineup of stellar operas and ballets at Palais Garnier and Opera Bastille. There are also Easter concerts at Sainte Chapelle and other spectacular venues dotted in the Latin Quarter and the Right Bank. Be sure to check out what will be playing when you're in Paris in spring.

Sip Champagne on a Seine River Cruise

Champagne Cruise Along the Seine

Can you guess why this is one of our favorite activities? That's right — it pairs Paris with champagne, the perfect combination. All you have to do is sit back and enjoy the scenery. And what a scenery it is! Glide past world-famous monuments while sipping bubbly and discovering that perhaps the best way to see the City of Lights is on a bateau .

Musée d'Orsay Impressionism Tour

Orsay Museum Skip-the-Line Tour

It's one thing to wander through Musée d'Orsay, peering randomly at its Impressionist art. It's another thing to be taken on a small-group tour in which an art expert guides you through Europe's most popular Impressionist museum. You'll love the stories and learn so much about the lives and works of van Gogh, Renoir and Monet.

Paris in One Day: Eiffel Tower Lunch + Cruise + Louvre

Paris in One Day

If you had only one day in Paris, this would be the perfect choice. Skip-the-line access means no waiting in line, at the best sites the city has to offer. A table has been reserved for you at the Eiffel Tower, for lunch overlooking the sights of Paris. Then, hop on a boat at the banks of the Seine River to see the best of Paris landmarks, riverside. There's more! Visit the Louvre for a guided tour of the world's most famous museum. Whew!

Night Bike Ride + River Cruise

Paris Night Bike Tour

Paris is lovely in spring, making it the perfect time for a bike ride. But, this is a ride with differences. First, it takes place at night, and you ride down ancient streets, cruising past famous monuments when they are all lit up. But that's not all — after your ride you hop on a river boat for a nighttime cruise on the Seine. A glass of wine is included, of course!

Dinner & Cabaret at the Moulin Rouge

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The Moulin Rouge is an essential Paris experience. This nighttime extravaganza is the best way to get the total experience, with a classic 4-course dinner, champagne, and a view of the show from some of the best seats in the house. Marvel at the glorious spectacle, the costumes, and the dancers as you sip bubbly. An extraordinary evening you will remember for years to come.

Private Airport Transfer

Airport Transfer

We recommend that you arrange transportation from the airport into central Paris before you leave home. It's nice to know what's going to happen when you arrive. Book a private transfer in advance and your driver will be there to meet you on your arrival, ready to whisk you directly to your Paris hotel. Start your vacation with a touch of luxury… and relaxation.

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VIP Versailles

If you don't have a full day to spend at Versailles, this very popular half-day tour includes priority access. Led by an expert guide, this small-group activity includes transportation from Paris. It's available in the morning and in the afternoon.

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Versailles En Bicyclette – Day Tour

Versailles by Bike Day Tour

If you're more of a sportif sort of traveler, this is the day tour for you. Cycle through the idyllic countryside near Versailles with your guide leading the way. Shop the local markets for picnic supplies and stop for an impromptu lunch in — you guessed it — the gardens of Versailles! Also explore the palace on this VIP skip-the-line day of exploration.

Your Own Private Versailles

VIP Versailles

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Montmartre Cheese, Wine & Pastry Tour

Join a food-expert guide for a walking tour of historic Montmartre to taste some of the best foods found in France — charcuterie, cheeses, wine, pastries, chocolate, bread. This quartier on the hill is famous for its cobblestone streets, café and terraces, and for the bohemian crowd who once lived here. Don't miss the views of of the rest of the city from its highest point.

Dine on the Eiffel Tower at Madame Brasserie

Dinner on the Eiffel Tower

Tap into the best of Parisian living with dinner or lunch on the Eiffel Tower at the highly-rated Madame Brasserie . With a stellar menu by Michelin-starred chef Thierry Marx, you'll marvel at the views as well as the classic French dishes. Choose the Grande Dame – Paris View option for the best views and the best meal.

The Food & Wine of the Marais

Food & Wine of the Marais

This popular food tour through the Marais is garnering high praise from travelers. Walk through the historic Marais neighborhood with your guide to visit the top food & wine shops, tasting the best of French food like cheese, charcuterie, baguettes, chocolate, and wine. You start your tour at the oldest food market in the city.

Bateaux Parisiens Gourmet Lunch Cruise

Seine River Gourmet Lunch

Here's an activity where you don't do anything except eat and drink — unless, that is, you want to look out the window at the fabulous monuments of Paris passing by. A cruise down the Seine on a bateau while being served a 3-course gourmet lunch is fun, casual, as well as delicious. Combine fine dining with a tour of Paris… riverside. Be sure to choose the Service Premier option for the ultimate experience.

Wine Tasting in the Heart of Paris

Wine Tasting in the Heart of Paris

You simply cannot come to Paris without tasting French wine. Not allowed. The professional sommeliers on these fun and informal wine tastings cover a lot of wine territory and deliver an extensive tasting of wines in a charming wine bar smack in the center of Paris. We prefer the 2-hour grand cru wine tasting, but we also like the wine tasting + lunch option.

Chocolate & Patisserie Tour of Saint-Germain

Chocolate and Pastry Walking Tour

Forget love and marriage — for us it's Paris and chocolate that go together. And when you throw in French pastries, we're in heaven. That's just where this Paris guided walking tour takes you. Follow a food-expert guide as you wander between Saint-Germain's iconic chocolate & pastry shops to learn the secrets and techniques of each. Did we mention all the sampling?

Learn to Make Croissants with a Pastry Chef

Learn to Make Croissants with a Pastry Chef

In a kitchen in Paris learn the art of making flaky, buttery croissants, the very epitome of French baking. A professional chef takes you through all the steps to master this iconic pastry. While you're here in the City of Food, take the chance to learn how to make croissants in your own kitchen.

Learn to Make Macarons in Paris

Make French Macarons in Paris

This cooking class gets you inside the culinary world of Paris. Your chef — a graduate of the Lenôtre Culinary Institute — takes you through the making of of these colorful, ganache-filled treats step by step. Create, from scratch, two different flavors of macarons, with classic fillings such as chocolate, lemon, salted butter caramel & coffee.

Paris Cooking Class & Food Market Tour

Market Tour & Classic French Cooking

Visiting an open-air food market in Paris is an quintessential French food experience. With an expert chef at your side, meet local merchants and learn all about French specialties. Then, with loaded baskets, it's back to the cooking studio where chef will show you how to create a fabulous 3-course lunch. Then, relax and enjoy your meal. With wine, of course!

Glorious Day Trips From Paris

Spend a day in the champagne region.

A Day In Champagne

Your driver gathers you from your Paris hotel and whisks you away on an action-packed day in the Land of Bubbly. Visit champagne estates plus the famous underground caves where thousands of bottles are stored. Drive through the vineyards to the village of Hautvilliers, home of Dom Perignon. Sample as much as you want — someone else is driving!

Visit the D-Day Beaches from Paris

D-Day Tour

The landing beaches of Normandy are among the most famous battle sites of World War II, and were an important step to the ending of that conflict. Today the event is remembered with monuments, museums, and dedicated cemeteries, as well as a visit to the beaches themselves. Take a day to step back in time on a day trip that returns you to Paris the same evening.

The Loire Valley – Chateaux & Wines

Chateaux of the Loire Valley Day Tour

The Loire Valley is famous for its Renaissance castles and for its fine wines. This is the day tour to the valley that visitors love most. Could it be because it includes not only tours of the most impressive castles in the world, but also a guided tasting of the equally-famous Loire Valley wines? With an expert guide, it's an easy day trip from Paris.

Monet's House & Gardens in Giverny

Monet's House & Gardens

Available again now that the warm weather of April is here, visit the house & gardens of Impressionist master Claude Monet. This charming small-group (8 people max) tour includes transportation from Paris and an expert guide. The gardens will be full of the freshness of spring, and the waterlilies will be blooming on the idyllic pond where Monet painted for 43 years. The day also includes a visit to Monet's gravesite.

Stunning Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel

Travel to the Normandy coast to visit this fairytale island. Home of a Benedictine abbey and a tiny village, Mont Saint-Michel becomes separated from the mainland during high tide. Wander the narrow streets, visit the shops and the abbey's ramparts. This small-group tour of just eight people ensures a personal & memorable experience. Finish the fun-filled day with a cider tasting.

What's On at the Museums

Louvre + orsay museums skip-the-line tour.

Louvre & Orsay Museums Skip-the-Line Tour

Time is precious when you're in Paris. Enjoy skip-the-line access on this small-group combo tour. You'll get ahead of the long lines at both the enormous Louvre Museum AND at Musée d'Orsay. See the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo at the Louvre, before heading to the d'Orsay to view the Impressionist paintings by Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh. Group size is limited to 8 to ensure a better experience.

Paris 1874: Inventing Impressionism

Inventing Impressionism

2024 is the the 150th anniversary of Impressionism! On April 15, 1874, the first exhibition by Monet, Renoir, Degas, Morisot, Pissarro, Sisley, Cézanne and 28 other painters was held outside of the official Paris Salon exhibition. See 130 works by these legendary artists and discover details about Paris in 1874. • Musée d'Orsay • Ends July 14, 2024 • Information …

1874 – The Immersive Experience

Experience the first Impressionist exhibition through virtual reality. It's Paris, April 15, 1874; 30 painters are presenting 165 of their works, all rejected by the official Paris Salon. Claude Monet, Renoir, Berthe Morisot, Cézanne, and Edgar Degas changed the history of art. This immersive experience brings together architectural plans, aerial photographs, studio archives as well as reviews by journalists and critics of the time

  • Ends August 11, 2024
  • Information …

The Paris of Modernity

The Modern Age (1905 to 1925) was a period when Paris exploded with an artistic and cultural energy that continues to dazzle us today. This exhibition explores fashion, cinema, photography, painting, sculpture, drawing, design, and architecture from this pivotal era in the history of Paris.

  • Petit Palais
  • Ends April 14, 2024

Hector Guimard & the Paris Metro

In 1899 Architect Hector Guimard won the competition held by the Compagnie Générale du Métropolitain to design the entrances to the stations of the brand-new Metro system, le plus modern mode of transportation. His inspired designs set the tone of Paris for the 20th century. Learn about the history of Guimard and see his original drawings exhibited for the first time!

  • Ends May 12, 2024

Shaman Visions from the Peruvian Amazon

Art under the influence. Ayahuasca — a hallucinogenic drink used by indigenous societies in the Amazon — was popularization by the Beat Generation of the 1950s. Traditionally administered by a shaman for therapeutic or religious purposes, the psychedelic beverage is also linked to artistic creation. View visionary images created under the influence by indigenous artists and by Beat legends William S. Burroughs & Allen Ginsberg.

  • Musée du Quai Branly
  • Ends May 26, 2024

Robert Ryman: The Eye in Action

This is American artist Robert Ryman's (1930-2019) first large-scale exhibition in France since 1981. Regarded as the founder of the American Minimalist movement, Ryman’s unique approach focussed on surface, space and light.

  • Musée de l'Orangerie
  • Ends July 1, 2024

Near Eastern Antiquities in Dialogue

See ten ancient artworks from central Asia, Syria, Iran and Mesopotamia on loan from New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art. Dating from the 4th millennium BCE to the 5th century CE, this remarkable exhibition pairs ancient sculptures reunited for the first time in modern times.

  • Louvre Museum
  • Ends September 29, 2025

A New Look for Van Eyck

The first exhibition since 2014 to focus on Jan van Eyck's masterpiece, the Madonna of Chancellor Rolin . During the past decade, conservators have removed layers of varnish restoring the oeuvre to its former glory.

  • Ends June 17, 2024

Olympism: Modern Invention, Ancient Legacy

Discover the roots of the first modern Olympic Games, and how the sporting competition of ancient Greece was reinvented in modern times. The exhibition will show how history and archaeology came together to create the world's greatest and most-watched sporting event.

  • April 24 to September 16, 2024

Find Hotel Deals for Your Dates in Paris

The top events in paris, the annual paris marathon.

Paris Marathon

The annual Paris Marathon takes runners from Champs-Elysées near the Arc de Triomphe to Bois de Vincennes , ending at the Bois du Boulogne. Take a peek at the map to see the complete route. When the Paris marathon began in 1976 it attracted only a small group of dedicated marathoners. For 2021 the event was moved from spring to fall (October) but in 2024 the marathon will run (no pun intended) in the usual season. • April 3, 2024 • Information …

Art Paris – Art Fair

Grand Palais Éphémère

Art Paris brings together 120 international art galleries representing dozens of artists. Normally held under the majestic roof of the spectacular Grand Palais , Art Paris takes place in the Grand Palais Éphémère on the Champ de Mars….

• Grand Palais Éphémère • April 4 to 7, 2024 • Information …

Festival du Livre de Paris

Festival du Livre de Paris

It's the biggest book fair in France with 160,000 visitors, 3,000 authors, and 30,000 bookish professionals gathering to share their expertise in the world of writing and publishing. • Grand Palais Éphémère, 7e • April 12 to 14, 2024 • Information …

Easter In Paris

  • Good Friday, March 29, 2024
  • Easter Sunday, March 31, 2024
  • Easter Monday, April 1, 2024 – French National Holiday
  • Our Guide to Easter in Paris …

Paris-Roubaix Challenge Cycling Race

Amateur cyclists compete in the legendary "Hell of the North" race on three difficult routes.

  • April 6, 2024

Foire de Paris – The Paris Home Show

In April you can visit the largest home show in Paris — and it's been that way continuously for over a century. You'll discover the latest French decorating trends. (Who doesn't want in on that one?) More than 3,500 brands in Europe give you a chance to discover all the latest French house and home trends. Postponed by pandemic, the foire runs this month.

  • Paris Expo, Porte de Versailles
  • April 28 to May 9, 2024

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Paris in April 2024 – What to See, Eat, Pack & Do!

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Traveling to Paris in April? You’re in for a treat! Spring in Paris isn’t merely a hint of warmer days. It’s a lively scene with bustling terraces and trees proudly showcasing their new buds. Some trees are even showing off their full bloom, leaving no doubt that it’s springtime in the city.

Since Easter is early in 2024, Paris’ peak season kicks off right in early April. By the second half of the month, the city’s vibrant hustle and bustle truly come to life.

In this article I will share with you everything you you need to know before traveling to Paris in Arpil:

  • Weather Info & Packing Tips
  • Seasonal Travel Tricks
  • Events & Things to do in January

Lena Profile Pic Salut from Paris

Salut, I am Lena – Travel Planning Expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

You might also be interested in these articles:

  • Cherry Blossom in Paris: Quick Location Guide 2023
  • Spring in Paris 2023 – Best tips for your trip to Paris in springtime
  • The best Parks in Paris – 13 beautiful gardens you need to visit!
  • Pack for Paris: Essentials you need in 2023!

Shakespeare & Company and Cherry Blossom Trees blooming in April

Everything you need to know about April in Paris

April is the first month when it’s likely that you’ll be spoiled with mild days. The temperatures are rising, and the days are becoming longer. And most important: the attractions and museums are no longer running on a winter schedule.

There is always plenty to do and see in Paris, and in April, you will have more time to fill your schedule. Either way, you probably have more plans and ideas than time anyway, but from a sightseeing perspective, April is a fantastic time to visit Paris.

How are the Crowds in Paris in April?

April in Paris is when things start bustling, thanks to Easter, delightful weather, and many European countries enjoying their Easter vacations. It’s the time of year when the city feels more alive and full.

But don’t fret, there are still plenty of quiet nooks and enchanting terraces away from the crowds.

However, if you’re aiming for the top attractions, you won’t be the only one. To avoid disappointment, it’s crucial to book your tickets ahead for these popular spots.

Here’s a short list of the most popular sights and landmarks in Paris. Click the links to see if tickets are still available:

  • Eiffel Tower book here (no fast past on site)
  • Louvre Museum Book here
  • Arc de Triomphe Book here
  • Musée d’Orsay Book here
  • Catacombs Book here
  • Château de Versailles Book here
  • Sainte Chapelle Book here

Dancers By the Seine in Sunshine

How’s the April weather in Paris?

April is the first month of the year when you have a good chance of nice spring weather.

Temperatures are mild, with a max high of 17 °C  (ca. 62° degree Fahrenheit) and usually not less than 8 °C (ca. 46° degree Fahrenheit) . However, You might get into some showers and drizzles, on average, there are 10 days with some rain in April in Paris.

However, don’t worry too much about it: it rarely rains an entire day in Paris, and April is especially known for frequent weather changes throughout the day . Hence, even if you get showers, chances are good that the sun shines soon after, or at least that it stops quickly.

What was just a lucky event in March becomes a frequent happening in April: Outdoor picnics and apéros by the Seine. The sun is noticeably warm by now, and you even might want to think about bringing sunscreen. (if you are pale like me, you certainly should)

Just keep in mind that the weather in Paris in April can change quickly, and you better enjoy the sunshine as long as it lasts.

Paris in Spring with Cherry Blossoms and the Parisian Cityscape

CHECKLIST for your Paris Trip

✔ Hotel booked?

  • Budget: Hotel France Albion (8.6)
  • Midrange: Hôtel des Arts (9.6)
  • Upscale: Millésime Hôtel (9.2)
  • Luxury: La Demeure Montaigne (9.1)
  • My Favorite: Hôtel Monte Cristo

✔ Tickets booked?

  • Eiffel Tower ( book here )
  • Paris City Pass ( book here )
  • Louvre ( book here )
  • Arc de Triomphe ( book here )
  • Hop On Hop Off Bus ( book here )

🎁🎁 Exclusive 5% off on Seine Cruises – BOOK HERE with our code SALUT5 🎁🎁

Paris Survival Tips

  • Buy your SIM card in advance
  • Get a Travel Adapter
  • Book your airport transfer
  • Download the free survival guide

Fun Activities

  • Explore the Covered Arcades
  • Discover the quaint Bookstores
  • Find Paris Hidden Cocktail Bars
  • Take an easy Day Trip by train

What to wear in Paris in April 2024

For your trip to Paris in April, it’s finally a safe bet to leave your heavy winter clothes at home. To be ready for the challenges of ever-changing early spring weather , it is best to dress in layers. Bring a few sweaters, a light scarf, and a jacket – and adapt.

Even though the sun is warming already, the evenings and mornings can be still cold. A good lightweight down jacket ( like this one ) is a great item to have: It keeps you nicely warm when needed, but is small and light enough for you to carry it around all day in your bag without that it taking up much space.

Parc Monceau in April

I advise you to check the weather forecast closely before leaving. You likely experience temperatures around 13 degrees on average, but there is also a chance that you are granted warmer weather.

You also should think about bringing either a rain jacket or a little travel umbrella . This one is tiny and fits in every bag . Alternatively, you can as well bring a stylish raincoat like this one, it has a fantastic name, don’t you think!?

When packing for your trip to Paris this April, make sure you pack the following items to be ready for the sometimes capricious April weather.

Umbrella or Rain Jacket

Rarely cold, but relatively often wet. That’s a brief sum-up of the April weather in Paris. It can be very wet in Paris in April, with showers, and sometimes even hail.  Thus, you certainly need something to stay dry.  Be it an umbrella, a poncho (practically, but admittedly very unusual in Paris), or simply a rain jacket. I like this stylish rain trench coat.

paris trip april 2023

Order from Amazon here

paris trip april 2023

Waterproof Shoes

paris trip april 2023

A Lightweight Down Jacket

I think a down jacket is one of the most important travel items if you are traveling in any other season than summer. A city trip usually means, that you leave your room early and come back late.

Being well-equipped for all sorts of weather you might encounter during the day is a requirement for city escapes. But you obviously can’t carry a heavy backpack with you all day.

The temperatures in Paris in April are fickle, with significant differences between day and night. A good lightweight down jacket like this one fits even in your small day pack or purse! It is truly indispensable for unsteady weather.

sunny terrace in April with Cherry Blossoms

7 Best Things to do in Paris in April 2024

When traveling to Paris this April, you have to keep in mind that it’s Easter on the weekend of the 1st of April and this means not only a short period of high season but also school holidays.

I strongly advise planning and booking as much as you can in advance. Here’s why:

  • Paris is getting crowded around Easter . Attractions are in high demand and spots are selling out quickly .
  • Popular sights like the Eiffel Tower or the Catacombs book out weeks in advance , especially in high season!
  • Even if they have tickets available, you have to queue for a long time
  • Most tickets that you book with GetYourGuide are refundable, so you’re not taking any risks while being on the safe side.

You see now, why I am insisting that you book your entrance tickets in advance to avoid disappointment or wasting time queuing.

To make it easier for you and save you time, you find in the following a list of sights that you need to book before you arrive in Paris . For your convenience, I added links to my most trusted ticket provider:

  • The Eiffel Tower – click here for tickets to the summit!
  • The Louvre – Click here to see the Mona Lisa
  • The Catacombs  – click here to enter Paris’ underground
  • The Castle of Versailles – book your ticket here

Eiffel Tower with Chery Blossoms in Spring

Of course, you also can purchase tickets directly on the sights homepages. However, the downside is that they usually don’t have a cancellation policy. While reserving your Paris tickets with get your guide grants you often 24h cancellation and full refund policy.

A strong point in times like these, but it also puts you in a safe spot when booking in advance: you remain flexible if your plans change.

#1 Stroll the Beautiful Parks & Look for Cherry Blossoms

Paris has more than 400 parks and gardens, and they are in almost full bloom in April. Especially if you are keen on enjoying the sight of Cherry Blossoms , April is an astounding time to visit the Parisian Parks. See our post about the most beautiful parks in Paris to know where to head to!

A classical Parisian Park scene with the iconic green metal chairs

#2 Visit the Best Parisian Museums

Save time and money and get the Paris Museums Pass here 

The Parisian museums are not just outstanding and world-famous, they are also a good escape on a rainy or cold day. As nice as the weather can be in April, you are almost certainly will have some showers as well.

But either way, visiting a few museums in Paris is almost obligatory. Especially when you are traveling in Paris in April, except for Easter, they won’t be completely crowded yet.

Should you not have booked it already, I recommend looking into purchasing the Paris Museums Pass.   This all-in-one pass provides you with free entrance to more than 50 of THE most remarkable Museums and Monuments in Paris and is beneficial already as soon as you visit these 5 Paris highlights:

  • The Louvre ( book here )
  • Panthéon ( book here )
  • Musée d’Orsay ( book here )
  • Sainte-Chapelle ( book here )
  • the Versailles Palace ( book here )

You can see the complete list of benefits here .

Visit the museums of Paris in March

#3 Explore Montmartre with a Local Guide

Click here to know about schedules, prices, and bookings

Montmartre is hands down one of the nicest and also most unique quarters of Paris. Back in the day, Montmartre was just a village outside the city gates. But even though it’s part of Paris since 1860 already, it preserved its village charm and strong identity until today.

You probably knew that Montmartre is a hill, and the views from up there are something you likely don’t want to miss. Hence, strolling around the cobbled stones alleys is a must when visiting Paris.

Admittedly, exploring Montmartre on your own isn’t too bad, but you will after all miss half of the magic that lies hidden in the anecdotes and stories . Montmartre has so many secrets that it is absolutely worth it to spend the extra penny and join a guided walking tour.

visit Montmartre in March - Paris in the spring

To make the most out of your time in Montmartre and also to not miss the occasion to indulge in local specialties and treats, consider this tour . You will not only discover the well-known artist district off the beaten paths, but also sample cold cuts, cheese, pastries, chocolates, and of course wine.

If you are traveling to Paris on a budget, check out this tour . It is the most budget-friendly but also the most popular walking tour in Montmartre.

#4 Take a Day Trip to the D-Day Beaches in Normandy

➲ click here to see which of the landing beaches you can easily visit from Paris

The landing beaches on the coast of Normandy are a historical site of immense significance .  It’s on Juno, Omaha, Gold, Sword, and Utah beach where the allies landed on the continent, and which marks the beginning of the end of WW2 and the liberation of Europe from the Nazis.

Today, Normandy is known for its remembrance tourism and many museums and landmark are honoring the events in June 1944.

The Normandy region lies by the channel and is known for drizzles, wind, and clouds. Hence, visiting from spring on is something I’d recommend.

Also, take a look at our article about the best and easiest day trips from Paris by train to get more ideas.

Utah Beach in Normandy

#5 Head up the Eiffel Tower

Click here for Eiffel Tower tickets and options

Surely, THE most popular activity in Paris and Number 1 on everyone’s bucket list. Thus, when you visit Paris in April, the Eiffel Tower is a no-brainer.

You should book your tickets in advance, though. The Eiffel Tower is always booked out, especially if you want to take the lift to the summit. I suggest checking with a ticket provider like GetYourGuide .

Their page is straightforward to navigate, you will be going to the top with a tour guide to learn all about the Eiffel Tower, and most important: The tickets are refundable up to 24h before the activity.

Paris in early spring, the Eiffel Tower and Cherry Blossoms

You can also purchase your tickets at the official online sales page just know that those tickets are not refundable and booked out most of the time. But it’s definitely worth checking as they tend to be a bit cheaper.

#6 Enjoy a Panoramic Seine Cruise

Click here to see all offers and options for Seine Cruises

When planning your day by the Eiffel Tower, think about adding a river cruise on the Seine ! Most cruises’ departure point is right by the Eiffel Tower , which comes in very handy when planning your Paris itinerary.

Apart from the Eiffel Tower, a Seine river cruise is one of the nicest activities in Paris. Sure, it is touristy, but you are granted fantastic views of Paris and the complete change of perspective is simply breathtaking.

River Seine in Paris with Eiffel Tower in the Back ground. Picture during night and with boats on the Seine

As a little plus: a boat tour is nicely relaxing and if you are lucky and get a mild spring day when visiting Paris in April, it is as well warm enough to sit outside and enjoy the sun.

Below, you find a little overview of the most popular Seine Cruises: 

#7 Learn how to Bake Macaron with a Parisian Chef

follow this link to see the most popular (and affordable!) Macaron Baking Class in Paris.

Macarons are somewhat the signature pastries of Paris, and you absolutely need to try them. The little delicate bites are creamy, crunchy, and incredibly delicious , and who would have guessed, not too difficult to bake. Especially not when you are having a Parisian Pâtissier or Pâtissière by your side who is willing to fill you in!

I did this Macaron Workshop at the Galerie Lafayette and it was awesome!

Macarons in a Macaron Workshop in Paris

What’s Going on in Paris in April 2024

You’ll never get bored when in Paris. From exhibitions, concerts, seasonal events to holidays and traditional festivities—the Paris event calendar is not letting you catch your breath.

01 April – Easter Monday (Pâques)

Sunday, and as well Monday, are Easter . Both days are bank holidays, and you can expect most stores to be closed. But don’t worry if your vacation falls during this time: all sights and attractions are open, Easter is a high season! Make sure to secure your tickets in advance!

Oh, did you actually know that in France it’s not the rabbit that brings chocolates but the cloches , the bells?

Easter in Paris, Easter decoration

01 April – Poisson d’Avril

It’s April’s Fool’s Day, of course! Pranks and jokes everywhere!

01 April – Foire du Trône

The popular and massive springtime funfair has a more than 1000 (yes, a thousand) year-long tradition. Until the 29th of May, you find it near the Bois de Vincennes, where you can enjoy more than 350 attractions and as well food stalls selling candies, churros, and many other treats.

FunFair in Paris

07 April – Paris Marathon

The 2023 edition of the Paris Marathon starts on the Champs Élysée, heading east through the Bois de Vincennes and back along the Seine until the Bois de Boulogne. Even if you are not keen on exploring Paris running, expect disruptions and road closures on the day of the event.

12 – 14 April Livre Paris (Paris book fair)

The yearly book fair takes place in the Grand Palais Ephémère and is a must-visit for every book lover. The event is for readers of all ages and displays books, comics, fiction, cooking books and many more.

27 – 28 April: Paris Fan Festival

That’s a perfect event if you are traveling to Paris with a teenager or are a bit geeky yourself ( I know I am). From Cosplay, Marvel, and Gaming, to Japan, Steampunk, and K-pop, you name it. Get more information and the complete guestlist here .

22 April – Tour Auto Optic 2000

More than 200 teams are participating in this historic car race. In 5 days, the racing drivers are crossing France, from the starting line at the Grand Palais in Paris to Andorra, the little country south of France. But don’t expect fancy sports cars, only cars from 1951 to 1973 are eligible to compete at the Tour Auto Optic 2000 !

paris trip april 2023

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FAQ Paris in April

April is one of the best months to visit Paris. The spring season is in full bloom, and you are likely to enjoy mild weather. April is the start of the high season, so it is getting fuller. Make sure to make reservations in advance to have the best experience possible.

April is not a cold month in Paris. It is of course not summer yet, but usually, you have temperatures between 10 and 17 degrees.

With the easter holidays and school vacation, the crowds are coming back to Paris. It is still not as crowded as in Mai and the summer months, but the city gets noticeably busier.

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paris trip april 2023

Paris in April (2023)

April in Paris list of what to do is up!

Here are my top 10 list – but to see the full article that also includes weather, and what to pack go HERE (link)

1/ Day trip to the Champagne Region

paris trip april 2023

Did you know that if you visit Paris, you’re only 1 hour away from Reims and Champagne country?! Well, ouuuiiiii! so why not do a day trip out? Here is one of my faves

This day trip from Paris takes you to Reims and Épernay to explore vineyards and prestigious champagne houses. You will also visit Hautvillers village, made famous by Dom Pérignon.

BOOK A CHAMPAGNE DAY TRIP HERE

2/ Stay at Madame Reve hotel

paris trip april 2023

A swanky 5 star hotel 5 mins walking from the Louvre and my old neighbourhood. The restaurant and cafe are also spectacular with an amazing view. The prices are a bit high, but you get what you pay for and you won’t regret the service, location and friendly staff.

BOOK MADAME REVE HERE

MADAME REVE

48 Rue du Louvre, 1st arr., 75001 Paris, France 

3/ Paris Wine and Cheese Tours

paris trip april 2023

A special “American Express” Tour we have crafted to show you some of the best places to enjoy local life of French wines and cheese.

You will get an introduction to French food, market, and etiquette all while enjoying Paris, we end with a a local wine bar with me, then desserts. one on one, 3 hours long of yumminess and fun!

Here’s one we did with a dad and daughter duo!

BOOK Paris TOUR WITH ME HERE

4/ Eiffel Tower View Dinner

paris trip april 2023

At the newly re-opened Cafe de L’homme . Here are my photos and video from the opening press day

View this post on Instagram A post shared by PARIS TRAVEL AGENCY | Yanique (@myparisianlife)

5/ Drinks on a Rooftop

paris trip april 2023

A little secret spot I like for an afternoon or evening drink is Perruche on top of the Printemps department store (perfect for an after shopping indulgence!) – the restaurants that are on the 8th floor also have an amazing view and I love to go here too for a glass of chardonay or champagne.

Perruche Paris –

Address : Printemps De L’Homme, 2 Rue du Havre 9ème étage, 75009 Paris

Hours : 

Suggest new hours

Menu :  perruche.paris

Phone :  01 40 34 01 23

BOOK Reine Mer HERE

6/ Basquiat x Warhol Exhibition at Fondation Louis Vuitton

A new immersive exhibition of a monumental size and with new never before seen works of two great artists. SEE MY FULL REVIEW and PHOTOS HERE

Arm Hammer Basquiat Warhol Fondation Louis Vuitton April 2023

7/ PARIS PHOTOSHOOT

paris trip april 2023

Book a photoshoot with one of my curated photographer for an hour with a beautiful Paris backdrop like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Montmartre or a lifestyle Cafe shoot typical of the stunning charm and aesthetics you love about Paris. The perfect souvenirs you can hang on your wall and share in a family photo album.

250 euros -email me [email protected] – for more information

8/ CHERRY BLOSSOM PARIS season is here

paris trip april 2023

See my map of the best locations HERE. Keep it in your pocket and use it while on the ground here in Paris for the pretty blooms of spring in the city.

9/ EASTER IN PARIS things to do

This year there are many egg hunts, and chocolate shops to discover in Paris. See it on the April in Paris to do LIST HERE

10/ PARIS FLEA MARKET Visits

paris trip april 2023

The season is here for weekend outdoor flea markets popping up all over the city and I’m so excited!! I also have a few days where I will be doing a tour of the biggest and most well known flea in Paris – Marche de Saint Ouen. If you’re interested in getting to know that area (in a safe and fun way!) look at my TOUR calendar here

BEST OF PARIS   PARIS   PARIS THIS MONTH

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Ah, Paris, the city of life, love, and light. From the Eiffel Tower to the Mona Lisa, from the bustling Champs Elysées to the winding streets of Montmartre, you'll find magic, romance, and history as you sip a café au lait, stroll manicured parks, and watch the sun set over the Seine. The home to some 2 million people, Paris could take you multiple lifetimes to explore from top to bottom—and that's not counting the Louvre. Happily, the métro system is extremely efficient and will aid you in see-and-flee sight-seeing. But to truly savor Paris's heady parfum, opt for the bus, or even better, your feet. In no time at all, you'll be strolling like a true Parisian from the arty Rive Gauche (Left Bank) to the regal Rive Droite (Right Bank).

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The major tourist season in France stretches from Easter to mid-September, but Paris has much to offer in every season. If you're dreaming of Paris in the springtime, May is your best bet, not rainy March and April—regardless of what some songs say about the latter. Paris in the early spring can be disappointingly damp, though it's relatively tourist-free; May and June are delightful, with good weather and plenty of cultural and other attractions. July and August can be sultry, stuffy, and uncomfortable. Early autumn is ideal. Cultural life revives after the summer break, and sunny weather often continues through the first half of October. The ballet and theater are in full swing in November. The weather is part wet and cold, part bright and sunny.

Top Experiences

Eiffel Tower : Built in 1889 for the World’s Fair, this iron structure is one of the most visited monuments in the world. There is a bird’s eye view of Paris from the top and there are two restaurants in the lower structure.

Cruise the Seine : Many monuments of the city can be seen from a leisurely cruise along the river. At night is especially beautiful as the monuments are lighted and gives a very different perspective.

Louvre Museum : An historic landmark, one of the most visited museums in the world, home to Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, over 300,000 objects are housed inside from all corners of the globe.

Café Society : The ultimate expression of French culture, sit in a sidewalk café and sip on a coffee while watching the world bustle past. Perhaps enjoy some pastries or macarons also.

Musee D’Orsay : Housed in a former train station, the space is light filled from skylights. Not as large as the Louvre, houses an impressive collection of Impressionist works.

Arc de Triomphe with Champs Elysees : The arc is one of the most famous monuments of the city and lies at the center of the convergence of twelve avenues. It is home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from WWI, with an eternal flame. The Champs Elysees is an avenue that stretches just over a mile. It is known for luxury shopping and hosts the finish of the Tour de France bicycle race.

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What to Pack for Paris in the Spring

Palais Royal in early spring everyday parisian

Paris in the spring is a popular time to visit for many reasons. The weather finally breaks from the cold, and pink blossoms pop around the city. Due to the upcoming Paris Olympics in the summer of 2024, the city will be buzzing. It might be an excellent opportunity to squeeze in a Paris trip before the games begin. This post is full of helpful tips for what to pack for Paris in the spring. 

paris trip april 2023

What to Expect for Weather in Paris in the Spring

what to pack for Paris in the spring everyday parisian

The weather can be cold and rainy, or even snow in late March and early April at the beginning of spring. April is typically warm and sunny with some rain. May tends to be one of the rainiest months of the year. Pack and plan accordingly if you are planning a trip in May. Expect your spring trip to Paris to have at least one rainy day or more.  It’s a good idea to pack  an umbrella  and  waterproof shoes . Keep your umbrella in your  everyday bag  because you never know when a shower might pop up, even on the sunniest days. Rain or shine, your Paris trip will be a great time. 

crossbody bag for Paris in the spring

Spring weather in Paris can be all across the board, depending on the time of year you visit. You will want to pack layers of scarves, sweaters, coats, and even boots. Sneakers are great for exploring Paris. You can see more details below.

spring outfit ideas for Paris

The cherry blossoms happen earlier each year, and you can expect them from late March to mid-April. One of my favorite places to spot them is the Eiffel Tower. Enjoy a picnic here on a sunny spring day. Late April is the perfect time to visit for warm weather before the crowds arrive. 

You can see  this post for ideas on where to visit Paris in Bloom. 

Paris in bloom everyday parisian

Coats to Pack for Paris in the Spring

Sézane trench coat Paris

I highly recommend packing at least one coat for Paris. A trench coat is a classic French wardrobe staple, and you will see Parisian women wearing trench coats on sunny and rainy days. This isn’t just a raincoat; it is a style statement. Since the early mornings and evenings can get cold, I recommend packing a light or silk scarf as a layering accessory. A leather jacket isn’t a bad idea, and you will find another classic French staple piece in Parisian fashion. I purchased mine from Madewell a few years ago and have gotten so much use from it over the years. (sized up to a medium)

Leather jacket for Paris in the spring everyday parisian

If you feel underdressed or out of place due to what you packed, do not stress. There are plenty of shops where you can pick up a souvenir such as a coat, pair of sneakers, scarf, or bag. After all, Paris is the city of fashion. Some shops that I love include Maje, Sandro, Sézane,  Comptoir des Cotonniers , Galleries Lafayette has just about every brand under one roof, 

what to pack for Paris in the spring everyday parisian trench coat sezane

Blazer Jackets for Spring

I love a good blazer jacket for spring to layer up. Throw this over a blouse or button-up. Paris is showing them in bright, bold colors. I am not there yet and prefer my basic navy, camel, and black staples. You choose what is best for you and go with it!

sézane camel blazer spring everyday parisian what to wear in Paris

The Best Bags for Paris in the Spring

what to pack for paris in the spring everyday parisian

You may be surprised, but fanny packs are trending in Parisian fashion. They are called “banane” because they are shaped like a banana. I own a bag by the famous French brand Rive Droite , which you will see all over Paris. You can buy one at their store in the Marais or at Galleries Lafayette, where I purchased mine. 

Tote bags like my favorite, Cuyana , are perfect for carrying around a camera, wallet, and umbrella. A crossbody or banane bag will be suitable for carrying a few things. For those of you with a Lululemon everywhere bag, you can wear this in Paris if you are dressed up a bit. I wouldn’t wear gym wear, sneakers, and a Lululemon bag around Paris if you don’t want to stand out like a tourist. 

French basket bag for picnics in Paris

Crossbody bags are trendy, and you will see them in different colors and fabrics. Mine are classic black and brown with a clasp to secure my belongings. A basket bag is a fun Parisian accessory when the weather is warm enough.

Polene French crossbody bag

Packing for Paris in the Spring

Paris neutral wardrobe for spring

When it comes to packing for Paris in the spring, I love to pack neutral colors to mix and match. A pair of black pants, jeans, ankle boots, basic tees, and a cashmere sweater can all be mixed as a capsule wardrobe. Add your trench or leather coat, and you can create different outfits. The French classic styles are evolving, but a neutral color palette is something you will still see on repeat. On a few of my last trips, there was still a lot of black on black. Tights (specifically black) are on trend and a good way to keep warm under a skirt, shorts, or black dress. 

The Best Walking Shoes for Paris

Comfortable walking shoes are essential when discovering Paris. You never want to get a blister or have sore feet on vacation. Paris is best explored on foot. I highly recommend flats instead of heels. The cobblestones aren’t so easy to navigate in heels. For sneakers, I love these from Madewell. It would be best to walk around your neighborhood to break them in. To prevent blisters, I swear by Moleskin inside of your shoes. You can buy it on Amazon or at your local drugstore. For flats, go for Sarah Flint or Margaux Demi . (wearing below)

Margaux Demi flats a comfortable shoe option for exploring Paris by foot

Sneakers are HOT right now in Paris, and I am not talking about your Nike running shoes. Veja, a French shoe brand, is available at Nordstrom or shops in Paris. This is a brand I saw all over Paris, and has two pairs myself. You will want to wear no-show socks with them.

the best walking shoes for Paris Veja a French brand

Skirts and Dresses for Paris

Staud dress Paris spring

I love wearing skirts and dresses in the spring. Dress up your Parisian outfit in a leather jacket, with ballet flats and a scarf. Have fun with this, and enjoy your vacation. The French aren’t typically dressed in leggings and sweatshirts. Leave those at home and pack these instead for some inspiration for some of my current favorites.

A-line skirts and mini pleated skirts have been spotted on the streets of Paris. If you want to pack a dress, below are some great options. You can never go wrong with a little black dress, pair with tights on cold days or ballet flats on warmer days. 

Dresses for Paris everyday parisian

Spring Layers for Paris

Trench coat for Paris a classic French look everyday parisian by Sézane

Sweaters are great for Paris in the spring. In the colder months, you will need an extra layer under your trench or leather jacket.

leather jacket madewell paris in the spring

Spring weather in Paris will surprise you. I highly recommend packing layers. It snowed last April 1st. A camisole, sweater, scarf , and light jacket should do the trick. Depending on the month, there will be cold days, and you will want warm, closed-toed shoes. The Gaspard from Sézane is one of my favorite layering pieces. Even in the spring months, when it is warm, you can throw it over a tank or dress.

Gaspard Sézane sweater for Paris in the spring

Shirts for Paris in the Spring

Katie Babies Sézane heels

A button-down shirt and blouse are my go-to shirts that work with pants and skirts. Throw a leather jacket or trench coat on top to complete the look.

j.crew white button up spring

Pants to Pack for Paris

Jeans are perfect and completely acceptable dressed up. They are wearing them all: high-waisted, cropped, and skinny jeans.

Paris packing for the Spring

Spring Accessories for Paris

An umbrella is essential when visiting Paris in the spring—also, good comfortable walking shoes. You want sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, depending on how sunny it is. Make sure to pack a top zip bag for walking around Paris. You always want to keep your belongings secure. My favorite bags include a simple Longchamp bag from Cuyana and Polène , which fits my camera, phone, and everything I need.

In terms of safety, I recommend you brush up on these tips. I keep a small wallet with one credit card and an ID; the rest is in the apartment or hotel safe. If lost, one always has a backup to get through the rest of the trip.

I hope this helps you plan what to pack for the city of lights. My goal is for you to have the best trip. You can download The Paris Guide for more details on where to stay, eat, drink, and explore in Paris. It is filled with helpful maps and links to explore hidden gems. 

Packing List for Paris in the Spring

paris trip april 2023

Download the Packing List Here

P.S. for ideas on what to do in Paris in the spring, you can check out this post.

*This post includes affiliate links. I make a small commission from items purchased from my links. Merci.

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I will be on a boat trip on the Seine for 5 days (A-Rosa). Will the sun be strong enough to need suncreen more than the 15spf in my foundation? Also: tried Merit cosmetics it Sephora: the concealer really is fantastic!

Absolutely, I recommend wearing SPF 50 every day and reapplying. Since you are on a boat, you will definitely want sun protection higher than spf 15 even on cloudy days. I am happy to hear you are loving the Merit concealer! xo

I am traveling to Paris the week of March 4,2024. For 10 days. How is the weather and What do you recommend. Tx Sandy D

The weather can be a bit unpredictable. It’s best to check the weather forecast in advance before you start packing. Did the post help in terms of what to pack and what to expect? Or is there something missing that I didn’t include that you are looking for?

Hi. My wife an I live in the UK and enjoy the occasional weekend in Paris. Ever thought of doing an article for men? What to wear, what to pack? Thanks.

I definitely recommend taking one heavy sweater and some gloves. I was there for 3 weeks from late March through early April 2022. We went from 70’s when I arrived to snow on April 1st and then back to 50’s (normal)

Hi – fellow Chicagoan here…this is great! I am headed to Paris the last week in April. Do you think a wool coat is necessary? I was planning on bringing it, but now thinking maybe I just need the trench and heavy sweater or two. Thank you!

Hi! Paris weather is a bit warmer than Chicago in April. Keep an eye on the forecast as you get closer to your departure date but you should be good with a trench and a heavy sweater. The spring weather can be unpredictable which is good to check and confirm before you go. A wool coat would probably be too warm at this point.

Bring a crew neck cashmere pullover in navy or black. Not only very French but ridiculously practical. I bring several. Cashmere takes up little space or weight in your suitcase,and can be steamed out in the shower when you unpack.

Great idea, thank you Alice for the tip!

I love your blog. I’m reading it time to time and always find something great and interesting 😻❤

I’m traveling to Dordogne, France, April 1-10. Your guide is very helpful. I am just catching up with jean style. A French ex-pat sales clerk helped me choose a dark wash lighterweight denim straight leg and a pair of dark slim jeggings. Are jeggings acceptable? They feel/look just like jeans. I also hope my conservative skirts and dresses from Nik&Zoe will work as we sightsee for 10 days. Congratulations on your engagement.

paris trip april 2023

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solosophie

Paris in April: Your go-to-guide on Where to Go & What to See

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 16th April 2024

Categories Paris

Last Updated on 16th April 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

Cherry blossom, longer days, and a higher reading on the thermometer: Paris in April is easily one of the best times to frequent the French capital, and not just because the crowds are lower than in the summer months and everything is actually open.

Please note that, in 2024, the 1st of April is a public holiday.  This is Easter Monday. During this public holiday, most shops will be closed, and supermarkets which do still remain open will operate at reduced hours.

Place Camille Claudel

Other reasons to go to Paris during mid-Spring are spending days exploring the city’s many outdoor attractions, as well as the chance to go sightseeing like a local before the rest of the tourists arrive come summertime. Here’s your go-to guide for what’s on and the best things to do during April in Paris!

The 1st April is April Fool’s Day in France and the day is known is French as Poisson d’Avril. It is not uncommon for French businesses and companies to play hoaxes on this day, only to publish that they were pranks the next day.

Psst. If you’re planning to visit Paris, then we’ve created a gorgeous 100+ page eBook full of beautiful photos and insider tips by a local. Included you’ll find hidden gems, arrondissement guides, walking tours, suggested itineraries, and more. Find more information here.

Cherry blossom surrounding the Eiffel Tower on a sunny day

Paris weather in April

A warm jacket, comfortable shoes, an umbrella, la foire du trone, go in search of cherry blossoms, be on the lookout for wisteria, take a day trip to château de sceaux, enjoy the green spaces the city has to offer, the paris marathon & the color run, easter in paris, enjoy a seine river dinner cruise, free and self-guided latin quarter walking tour, macaron making in galeries lafayette, le marais: pastry and chocolate food tour, 2 hour seine dinner cruise, video of paris in april, where to stay in paris, enjoyed reading about the best things to do in paris in april pin it now, read it again later:.

Perhaps most fitting for describing the weather in April is the French idiom “Une hirondelle ne fait pas le printemps.” Literally translated as ‘one swallow does not a summer make,’ this phrase indicates the volatile and unpredictable weather of the French capital when it comes to mid-spring.

Though days are longer and the temperature may be warmer, rain showers are frequent and so don’t be caught out by one by not coming prepared. The average temperature in Paris in April is around 11 degrees Celsius, with highs in the mid-teens and lows around 7.

In 2024, temperatures as high as the twenties were recorded, so be sure to pack lots of layers! Mornings and evenings can still be particularly chilly and patches of rain showers are not uncommon.

Vintage books stacked outside in Paris

What to wear and pack for Paris in April

You’ll want to leave the summer dresses and shorts at home for now. While a light jacket is typically fine during the daytime, the temperature can plunge fairly significantly post-sunset and so you’ll want to bring along a warm-ish jacket to combat the cold.

Whether it’s discovering a new district or wandering around a museum, when it comes to visiting the French capital, you’ll likely be on your feet all day.

I typically travel with a pair of tennis shoes like these ones and a pair of chunky heel boots. This way, both pair of shoes are comfy, while I still have something a little nicer to wear in the evenings!

If there’s one thing I always forget to pack during my travels around Europe, it’s an umbrella. However, due to frequent rainfalls in April (they don’t call them ‘April showers’ across the Channel in England for nothing!), you’ll want to have a sturdy one handy.

If there’s one travel item I literally never travel without, it’s a scarf (even in the summer!) Though in April you’ll likely want to keep it close so you can wrap up warm in the evenings, a scarf can also double as a blanket/ pillow on the plane and a shawl for keeping warm with an evening dress.

Eiffel Tower at sunrise with a piece of the Trocadero carousel

What to do in Paris in April

Fun for all the family, this annual festival is held each year in April. The fairground is the oldest ongoing traditional funfair of its kind in France and dates all the way back to 957 when it was held in Lothaire.

Today, the fair comprises of 350 stalls, rides, and attractions held on the Pelouse de Reuilly. In 2024, the funfair will take place from the 22nd March to the 21st of April.

Though the magnolia in the city are starting to go over, there’s no denying that some of the fluffiest cherry blossom trees are in full bloom during the first two weeks of April.

Some of the best places to enjoy the blossom in Paris are on the trees next to Notre Dame, as well as those beside Shakespeare and Co. To gauge exactly when to visit, keep an eye out on social media.

Square René-Viviani: A Parisian Park on a Former Cemetery in the Latin Quarter, Paris, France

Though more of a May activity than something to do in April, weather dependant the wisteria in Paris may well be out before the end of April. Some of the best places in Paris to spy the purple trailing blooms are on Rue de l’Abreuvoir in Montmartre and on the façade of Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole on Ile de la Cite.

paris trip april 2023

The best time to take a day trip to the fairytale-like  Château de Sceaux is easily in April. After all, it’s here in the French castle’s grounds where you’ll discover an orchard planted with cherry blossom trees that tend to flower in mid-April.

Though not as much of a ‘hidden gem’ as just a few years ago, be sure to head there earlier in the day and mid-week so as to enjoy the blooms without the crowds!

There are actually two blossom orchards next to one another; one with pink blossoms and the other with white blossoms. Both are beautiful for enjoying a picnic in.

sceaux

With its longer days and the number on the thermometer ever-creeping upwards, there’s no better time to enjoy all of the little pockets of calm and parks throughout the city.

Some of my all-time favourite parks in Paris include the Parc des Buttes Chaumont (complete with 19th-century follies and even a grotto) and Square René-Viviani (a park constructed on a former cemetery).

Parc des Buttes Chaumont, 19e arrondissement, Paris, France: cherry blossom

Two famous runs take place in the city in April; the Paris Marathon and the Color Run, an event inspired by the Holi Festival. While the marathon starts at the Arc de Triomphe and comprises of over 42 km, finishing at Bastille, the Color Run starts at Hôtel de Ville and ends at the Eiffel Tower. The Paris Marathon will take place on the 7th April 2024.

In 2024, Easter Sunday will be celebrated in March (even though it usually happens in April). The event is marked in Paris by a series of events, including Easter Egg hunts in the Palais Royal and at various other locations throughout the city. Disneyland Paris also has a whole host of Easter-themed events. Check here for Disneyland Paris prices.

cherry blossom palais royale paris

Though, of course, you can enjoy a romantic dinner cruise all year long, there’s perhaps no better time to enjoy the stunning city than when the days are long and the temperatures are warm. 

There are several options available, including this  Early Evening Dinner Cruise on the River Seine.  Finally, for those with time constraints who wish to simply see the sights of Paris on the water,  this 1-Hour Illuminations River Cruise  is short and sweet!

seine river cruise paris

Tours in Paris you’ll love this month

If you’re looking for a glimpse into Paris’ Roman history, as well as wander through the city’s medieval past, then you may well want to head to the 5th arrondissement of the city. For more details, check out this free and self-guided Latin Quarter walking tour.

For those with a sweet tooth, learning to make macarons at one of Paris’ most famous department stores is a bucket list item. These cooking classes typically last for 1.5 hours and ensure that you come away with your own tasty box of French cookies!  Check here for prices and to book the class now.  

My Macaron Address Book: Where to find the Best Macarons in Paris

If you’re after a guided foodie experience together with a tour guide, then this foodie tour includes hidden gems such as bakeries and other food tasing experiences. The tour typically lasts for three hours and is during the afternoon.   Check here for prices and to book the class now.  

Incredibly well-reviewed, for the ultimate romantic experience in the City of Love, be sure to book a seat on this two-hour dinner cruise. Included is a three-course meal and enjoying iconic Parisian landmarks (the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame) from the water.  Check here for prices and to book the tour now.  

Palais Royal and Pont Alexandre iii on a sunny day

If you want to see a day of my life during a weekend in Paris in April, then I have a little vlog where I share a small insight into exploring the French capital for the day:

Mandarin Oriental: Located along rue Saint-Honoré, which is famous for its many shops, this five-star luxurious accommodation is home to highlights like a marble lobby and beautiful courtyard. Check availability and rates here!

Shangri-La:  If you’re looking to  seriously  splurge on a romantic stay during your time in the city, then this hotel faces the Eiffel Tower, is home to a 2 Michelin star restaurant and spa facilities. Check availability and rates here!

Luxury experience: The Hoxton : For those who are looking for the ultimate luxury experience when staying in Paris, The Hoxton has it all. Charm and several beautiful communal guest spaces including a stunning bar and restaurant, other highlights of the hotel include breakfast options, WiFi, and room service.  Check prices and availability here.

The Hoxton Hotel Paris France

Mid-range boutique stay: Hôtel Fabric : As you might gather from its name, Hôtel Fabric is set against the backdrop of a former textile factory and simply oozes charm. Beautiful and with friendly staff, this four-star hotel is welcoming and is located just a fifteen-minute walk away from Le Marais area of the city.  Check prices and availability here.

Mid-range: Hotel Petit Paris:  Not far from the Luxembourg Gardens and close to the Latin Quarter of the city, this boutique hotel is in the perfect position for exploring Paris on foot. From here, it’s easy to explore top Parisian attractions such as the Paris Pantheon, as well as the Saint Germain des Prés area of the city. Check availability and rates here!

Affordable chic: Hôtel Chopin : Located within one of the covered passages of Paris, in the 9th arrondissement , and close to all the action (the nearby Grands Boulevards are full of bars and restaurants), Hôtel Chopin is a small hotel offering affordable rooms. Amenities include a restaurant and spa on site. Check prices and availability here.

Budget hostel: Generator Hostel : Those in search of an affordable option, Paris has a number of hostels which are fairly conveniently located. This hostel is situated close to the lively area of Canal Saint Martin and offers mixed-sex and female-only dorms. Check prices and availability here.

What's on? Paris in April guide. Here are the very best things to do in Paris during the mid spring: suggested activities, things to do in April in Paris, France, weather, suggested packing list, Parisian tours and more!

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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paris trip april 2023

Paris in April: 2024

I have 2 favorite months for visiting Paris: April and October. And while I have been to Paris in every month (and over 50 trips in total) I have been to Paris the most during these 2 months. April in Paris is magical.

The weather is generally good, if the various months were bears in Goldilocks and the Three 12 Bears, April would be the baby bear that is “just right” existing between it being too cold and too hot!

When the musical goddess Ella Fitzgerald sings about April in Paris, every traveler's heart sings, at least the ones that are familiar with Paris!

I never knew the charm of spring I never met it face to face I never knew my heart could sing I never missed a warm embrace Till April in Paris, chestnuts in blossom Holiday tables under the trees April in Paris, this is a feeling That no one can ever reprise I never knew the charm of spring I never met it face to face I never knew my heart could sing I never missed a warm embrace Till April in Paris Whom can I run to What have you done to my heart – Lyrics by Count Basie

Paris holds a beauty that captures the imagination every day of the year, but April adds something magical to it. April brings misty mornings eclipsed by sunny afternoons, swelling birdsong, and the scent of freshly blooming flowers (like cherry blossoms!) to the City of Light .

Why should you visit Paris in April?

There are my reasons why April is a good time to visit Paris. As I mentioned above, after 50 visits to the French capital, I can hands-down say that April is the best time to visit. Here are a few reasons why.

  • The Affordability. Have you ever heard the expression “shoulder season?” Well, April in Paris is it! April marks the early beginnings of the tourist season. Hotel prices are cheaper than stays during the peak tourist season between July and September.
  • The Crowds. Paris is the most visited city in all of Europe. Peak tourist seasons of July to September see crowds of thousands of tourists swarm Paris. In April, the crowds are much smaller. Any attractions you visit won't have mile-long lines or crowds of people blocking the view, these troubles mainly plague the high season of the summer. If Easter falls in April, you may even have fewer Parisians in town although you will still have other European tourists. (For 2023, Easter weekend is April 7 (Good Friday) through Monday, April 10.)
  • The Locals. When visiting Paris outside of peak tourism season, you'll experience it as the locals do. In fact, you may get to know some locals, since many stay in Paris until peak tourist season when Parisians head for the country to avoid the crowd.
  • The Weather. Paris in the summer sees warm weather in the near-eighties with seventy percent humidity. Comparatively, April holds a steady sixty-degree temperature with the lowest humidity of the year, at around fifty percent. While cool rain may fall periodically, the weather remains fairly mild during April as Paris warms up from the winter.
  • The Scenery. Warmer spring temperatures mean beautiful foliage and blossoming flowers in Paris' boulevards and parks. Cherry blossoms, apple trees, peonies, and tulips burst to life in a vibrant display of colors. These gorgeous spring buds begin to fade in May and April is the prime viewing time for the gorgeous scenery.

What Is The Weather In Paris in April?

April weather in Paris is much like you’d expect for spring anywhere in the hemisphere. The weather is mild, with the average temperature in the 60’s. The mornings and evenings can still be chilly (dress in layers!!), sometimes dropping to the 40s.

While there are some rainy days, don’t let them scare you away. There are plenty of things to do and see inside when you need to escape a drizzle but on many days you’ll get to enjoy lots of sunshine, warmer weather, and low humidity.

The spring weather alone is why I think April is a great time of year to visit Paris!

Paris weather in April

Weather patterns these past few years are very unpredictable, so I want to share the averages and then what we have seen in the last few years. (I used World Weather Info as my source of information.)

  • Weather in Paris for April

Weather in April in Paris:

  • The temperatures in April in Paris: It can get low temperatures as low as 49 degrees F (13 C) and a high temperature as high as 56 degrees F (9 C).
  • Sunrise and Sunset: You can expect sunrise at around 7 AM and sunset at 8:40 PM.
  • Rain: Not too much rain.
  • Snow: It can happen! But the snow melts quickly, usually by the end of the day.

Weather in Paris in April FAQs

What is the average temperature in paris in april.

The weather is mild this time of year. The average temperature is in the 60’s. The mornings and evenings can still be chilly (dress in layers!!), with cooler temperatures sometimes dropping to the 40s. It is very pleasant weather!

Does it rain a lot in April?

Paris gets an average rainfall of about 2 inches during April, with about 9 days of rain in total. (Fewer rainy days than in March.) That doesn't seem like a lot, but it happens mainly in showers. So it can rain a couple of times a day. The rain can arrive suddenly and can be heavy. You may have cloud cover.

The Best Things to Do in April in Paris

There are thousands of things to do in Paris every day of the year. The benefit of visiting Paris in Spring? You get to enjoy the indoor offerings while still having beautiful weather to enjoy the outdoors as well!

When visiting Paris in April, consider picking destinations and attractions that fit a variety of interests because, as previously mentioned, there truly are tons of things to do in the city!

Visit the Parks and Gardens

The parks and gardens of Paris never disappoint. In April, there are no hordes of tourists cramming through the trails and paths of the gardens. You can enjoy strolling beneath the linden trees and cherry blossoms without feeling rushed in one of Paris' many parks or gardens. 

  • Jardin des Tuileries. When visiting Paris, one must stop at the Jardin de Tuileries to truly understand the French royalty's love of gardens. These beautiful paths mingled with fountains and ponds, were originally built by Queen Catherine d'Medici in the 16th century. Walk among gorgeous arrays of flowers and trees and enjoy the works of Monet in the Musée de l’Orangerie during your time in this historic oasis. I've written an entire guide to this park .
  • Parc de la Villette. Young by Parisian standards, the Parc de la Villette in the 19th Arrondissement boasts a unique modern design by Swiss architect Bernard Tschumi. Take a guided tour or wander this unique garden alone, enjoying the Garden of Mirrors, the Garden of Mists, or the Garden of Acrobatics. For lunch, swing by the burger bar and continue your exploring.
  • Jardin des Plantes . The Jardin des Plantes in the 5th Arrondissement opened to the public in 1640. This once-royal garden hosts a small zoo and over 10,000 plant species. There's even an abandoned lab in the garden that was home to the discovery of radioactivity in 1896!
  • Jardin du Luxembourg. This garden in the 6th Arrondissement was created in 1612 when Marie de' Medici constructed a new residence the Luxembourg Palace, which ultimately became the location for the French Senate. It is near the Latin Quarter and is one of the most popular and beautiful gardens in Paris. I've written an entire guide to this park.
  • Parc Monceau. This garden in the 8th (and the border of the 17th ) gives you a wonderful glimpse into the lives of bourgeoise Parisians and how they spend their leisure time. From children playing on the grounds to young mothers and nannies chatting on shaded benches, the park is a calm, green haven in the urban land of Paris. I've written an entire guide to this park.

Look for the Cherry Blossoms

If you’re visiting at the beginning of the month, you’re just in time for the gorgeous cherry blossoms and magnolia blooms to line the streets. The season varies slightly each year but is usually from mid-March to mid-April, making the first two weeks of April the perfect time.

Where to find the cherry blossoms? All you need to do is wander the city and you’ll find some. For specific points, check out the Shakespeare and Co. Bookstore, Champs de Mars, Petit Palais, and Jardin des Plantes.

Another trick is to turn to social media and see the locations of the latest cherry blossom photos with trees in full bloom!

Have a Picnic

While you’re exploring the many parks and gardens of Paris, take advantage of the fair weather and have a picnic. Just be sure to check that the grass isn’t wet before you throw the blanket down.

And, of course, you’re not limited to just the parks. My all-time favorite picnic spot is along the banks of the Seine River, with my feet dangling over the river’s edge. It’s definitely a “Parisian moment”!

Here are 9 of the best picnic spots to choose from, so grab a baguette, some cheese, and wine and enjoy.

La Promenade Plantée

Spring is the perfect time to visit la Promenade plantée (also known as Coulée verte René-Dumont) raised railroad track (which was in disrepair until it was converted to this walkway in 1993) with flowers galore!

Get a fantastic view of the city as you stroll along this 2.7 mile/4.5km elevated walkway with tons of green space. Located in the 12th arrondissement and you can find it along Avenue Daumesnil very close to the Bastille metro.

Enjoy the Cafés

Nothing screams Parisian breakfast more than café crème and a croissant. Of course, cafés are open all year round, but April is the first month you can sit outside on the terrace (or sidewalk) without freezing or sitting under a heat lamp!

Eat like a local and find a small corner café to sip espresso and read Le Parisien paper, or discover one of the popular breakfast restaurants like the organic offerings at Chambelland or enjoy the fine offerings at Blé Sucré. Check out my guides if you aren't sure how to order your coffee in Paris or what to eat for breakfast .

Paris Marathon

The Paris Marathon is one of the largest in the world with as many 65,000 runners from all over the world taking part in this race that weaves through the city of Paris. It starts at the Arc de Triomphe and finishes at Avenue Foch in the 16th Arrondissement.

If you are visiting Paris in April you should be aware of what day the marathon falls on because it can impact your ability to get around some of the major city streets. For 2023, it is April 2.

Passage Couvert Paris

There is always a chance of rain in April so it’s good to be prepared with a rainy day activity or two. The covered passages (les passages couverts) of Paris provide a rainy day escape into what can, at times, seem like a different, almost magical side of Paris.

Check out my guide on Passage Couvert Paris to see where and how to find them!

Join a Cooking Class

If you’re a foodie, a cooking class is a must but I recommend it to everyone up for trying something new on their visit to Paris. April is a great month for testing out a cooking class because they happen indoors and, depending on what you’re cooking, can be a great way to sample what is fresh and in season.

I recommend La Cuisine Paris . The mister and I took a class on baking bread, but they have dozens of other classes available as well.

There are many museums in Paris so I recommend finding ones that align with your interests and checking them out. They’re an easy way to escape April showers while crossing something off your bucket list too.

You can often even book a guided tour, which is something that we did at the Orsay (Musee d’Orsay). Reserve your ticket and skip-the-line access here.

This is also a great opportunity to visit the largest museum in the world, the Louvre Museum, without all the intense crowds. Reserve your ticket and skip-the-line access here .

See the Eiffel Tower

Whether this is your first or fiftieth trip to Paris, seeing the Eiffel Tower never gets old. And while you can see it from many points in the city if you’ve been waiting for your chance to get that Instagram shot in front of the Eiffel Tower, dine inside , or just visit, April is a great time to do it.

While there is always a line (it’s the most popular attraction in the city, after all!), the crowds are not nearly as bad as they are during the summer months. Reserve your Eiffel Tower Summit Direct Access by Elevator ticket here .

Take a River Cruise

A dinner cruise down the River Seine is a unique way to see some of the major sites of the city. (Not to mention super romantic if you’re traveling with that special someone!) There are several different cruises to choose from but many include a three-course (or more) dinner as you cruise up the Seine River.

You’ll be able to see landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower from a brand-new perspective. Reserve your Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Cruise 1-Day/2-Day Pass here .

Disneyland Paris

Amusement parks are not usually at the top of my travel list but if Disneyland Paris is a bucket list experience for you, April is a great time to do it as there are few fewer people since kids aren’t on vacation yet.

If Easter falls in April, you may be able to catch some of the Easter-themed events held at the theme park. Just note that you should avoid going on Easter Sunday or Easter Monday due to crowds.

Reserve your 1-day Disneyland Paris Pass here.

Check Out a Special Events

There is always something happening in Paris and there are several annual fairs and shows that happen every April in Paris. Here are a few that I’m aware of and love to attend but this is by no means an exhaustive list!

  • Art Paris Art Show: Taking place at the Grand Palais in the 8th Arrondissement , this annual event features contemporary art with new artists exhibited every year.
  • Festival du Livre de Paris (Paris Book Festival) takes place April 12-14 at the Grand Palais Éphémère in the 7th arrondissement. Shop for books (there will be more than 250,000 of them) or take a workshop.
  • Foire du Trone: Also known as “Fun Fair” this is a carnival that dates back to 857 and takes place in the Bois de Vincennes in the 12th Arrondissement .
  • Paris Color Run: (Depending on the year, sometimes this event happens in March in Paris .) Paris takes part in this world event, for every kilometer of the race there is a “color” zone where volunteers throw 100% natural corn starch-based colored powder. Participants try to cross as many color zones as possible before hitting the finish line.
  • Foire de Paris starts in April (and runs through May). This show features household goods – like a kitchen home show that takes place at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles in the 15th Arrondissement .
  • PAD Paris Art and Design Fair is an event dedicated to modern and contemporary furniture and design. It takes place in the Jardin des Tuileries facing 234 rue de Rivoli and opposite rue de Castiglione (where the Westin is) in the 1st Arrondissement .
  • Livre Paris is a massive book fair that takes place in April at the Porte de Versailles in the 15th Arrondissement .

April in Event FAQs

Is paris fashion week in april.

Paris has 5 fashion weeks (Paris Fashion Week – Men Fall/Winter; Paris Fashion Week – Haute Couture; Paris Fashion Week – Women Fall/Winter; Paris Fashion Week – Men Spring/Summer; Paris Fashion Week – Women Spring/Summer) but none of them are in May. The closest is the Men – Spring Summer which is June 20-25 in 2023.

Will the Notre Dame Cathedral be open in April?

No. It is set to be completed in December 2023.

Travel photography

Best spots eiffel tower photos ebook.

Are you looking for the best spots to take a stunning Eiffel Tower photo in Paris? Look no further! This ebook is designed to be your one-stop guide for taking those breathtaking Eiffel Tower shots throughout the city.

Culinary Delights of April in Paris

Oh, you know me. This is always my favorite part! No trip to Paris is complete without a deep exploration of all the eats. You should definitely try the classics, but don't forget the season as well!

  • French Cuisine Festival (Gout de France): Depending on the year, this can also take place in March. A food festival that celebrates traditional French dishes served in the “old” way as well as transformations. There are food booths, trucks and markets, demonstrations and workshops, and meet-and-greets with chefs. It’s a great way to see food from all across the country.
  • Rhum Fest Paris: I learned about this one while watching a detective series on TV, it is an event dedicated to rum and takes place in the Bois de Vincennes in the 12th Arrondissement .
  • Le Food Market: Held 1 Thursday each month, this mini street food festival showcases cuisine from around the world. The market takes place at 23 rue Boyer in the 20th Arrondissement .
  • Sugar Paris: A food festival for those with a sweet tooth! This event dedicated to sucre takes place at the Parc des Expositions de la Porte de Versailles in the 15th Arrondissement .
  • Easter in Paris: If Easter falls in April, then lucky you! The chocolate and pastry shops will have many chocolate treats, an extra indulgence during this time of year!

What to eat in Paris in April

Many restaurants offer seasonal menus so it is always good to know what is actually in season! Paris has many tastes to experience, but during the spring there are some seasonal specialties. If you visit the marchés (farmer's market) you will see many of these items listed below.

  • Fruits in season: apricots, cherries (cerises) grapefruit (pamplemousse), blackberries (mûres), lemons (citron), apples, pears, and some species of strawberries (La Ciflorette, Cléry, Darselect, and Gariguette).
  • Vegetables in season: You'll also find avocados, carrots, radishes (radis), endives, morille mushrooms, fennel (fenouil), Fava beans (haricots de Fava or fève), spinach (épinard), garlic (ail), onions, leeks (poireau), red and green cabbage (chou rouge and chou vert), cauliflower (chou fleur), chard (blette), sorrel (oseille), rhubarb, lettuce, asparagus, zuchinni, dandelions (pissenlit), peas, artichokes (artichaut), frisée (a Mr. Misadventure favorite), mâche (my favorite).
  • Herbs in season so they will show up on your plate in restaurants and be widely available in markets for making meals if you are renting an apartment or condo: chervil is also known as French parsley (cerfeuil), watercress (cresson) which is fantastic in soup too, and parsley (persil).
  • Seafood is in season: halibut (flétan), crab (tourteau) and turbot.
  • Did you know that there are seasonal cheeses ( fromages )? It’s true! Spring is the best season for cheese! Especially cheeses from any mountainous region like Banon (goat’s milk), Boulette, Cabecou, Crottin de Chavignol, Epoisses, Fontina, Livarot, Maroilles, Roquefort, Saint-Marcellin, and Saint-Pierre. April through May is spring goat cheese (chèvre). Also good in April are: Cerney, Sainte Maure, Valencay, Selles Sur Cher, Beaufort, Mimolette, Morbier, Parmigiano Reggiano, Brie de Meaux, and Brie de Melun.

Popular Restaurant Dishes To Try

As I mentioned, Parisians eat very seasonally. In the restaurants (tips for dining in Paris here ), spring means lighter dishes. With all the lettuces in season, you will season wonderful salads (including salade niçoise and salades with chèvre) and other dishes that are bright with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Lamb appears on the menu as well and if you can find it spring sardines are delightful! Lots of spinach quiches and souffles. More spring vegetables appear in Estouffade Printanière vegetable stew. On the dessert menu will be the usual tarts and fruit sorbets, but you will also see cherry clafouti.

Save on food costs by visiting the local markets and shops.

Paris restaurants can be expensive, and while it’s worth splurging on one good meal, you don’t want to blow your entire travel budget just on food. Luckily, you can find a lot of treats at the local markets ( here's the etiquette ).

You can also ask the hotel staff or locals to recommend small cafes and bistros that they go to. This may save you from “tourist rates” and will definitely have good food. April is wonderful for picnics (just be careful of wet grass.). Buy at the local market and head to one of the 9 ideal picnic spots in Paris .

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Tips for Visiting Paris in Spring

Dress in layers..

I have a full post on what to pack and wear for spring in Paris , make sure to check that out. Rain does fall in Paris during April. Pack a light rain jacket or waterproof trench coat, comfortable pants, and comfortable walking shoes, and it's a good idea to bring an umbrella for your trip.

Mornings can be cold, and then gradually becomes warmer as the day passes. So, it’s best to wear a scarf and dress in layers, so you can shed your jacket at the end of the day.

  • What to Pack for April in Paris

April in Paris is a time when the city begins to bloom, and the air is filled with the promise of spring. The weather can be unpredictable, with sunny days suddenly giving way to showers. This month requires a wardrobe that can handle everything from a warm afternoon in Montmartre to a drizzly morning by the Seine. Here’s your go-to packing list for embracing the beauty of Paris in spring, ensuring you’re prepared for its whimsical weather while looking effortlessly chic.

  • Lightweight waterproof jacket: Essential for those unexpected spring showers.
  • Layering pieces: Think cotton long-sleeve shirts, light sweaters, and breathable blouses.
  • Comfortable trousers and jeans: Choose lighter fabrics for sunny days.
  • One or two spring dresses: Perfect for warmer days, with the option to layer with tights if it’s cooler.
  • Light scarf: Adds a touch of Parisian style while offering warmth on cooler days.
  • Sunglasses: For those bright, sunny days exploring the city.
  • Compact umbrella: Be prepared for April showers without sacrificing space in your bag.

Check out this post for a full list of what to pack for Paris in the spring .

The charm of Paris in April is best enjoyed on foot, from the blooming gardens to the bustling café terraces. Your footwear should be versatile, comfortable for long walks, yet stylish enough to transition from day to evening outings.

  • Waterproof walking shoes: Keep your feet dry during those April showers.
  • Stylish sneakers: Perfect for daytime exploration and fits right in with Parisian casual chic.
  • Flats or low-heeled shoes: Ideal for evening dining or a concert, offering comfort and elegance.

The right bag can be your best companion as you stroll through Paris’s arrondissements this April. Opt for options that blend functionality with the effortless style the city is known for.

  • Waterproof cross-body bag: Secure your belongings against the weather while keeping your hands free for photos.
  • Lightweight tote bag: Ideal for carrying a light jacket, water bottle, and any souvenirs picked up along the way.
  • Small evening bag: A sleek choice for nighttime, big enough for essentials but elegant enough for Parisian nights.

Book ahead.

Schoolchildren are on vacation for Spring Break between the beginning of April and early May, so make hotel and transportation reservations ahead of time. The best hotels and most popular attractions will be booked.

Take the metro.

While walking around Paris is certainly one of the best ways to really enjoy its culture and architecture, taking public transportation can help save time—especially if you want to maximize your stay. Your hotel can provide you with a map of the metro, and most establishments will list the name of the nearest station. Here is my complete guide to the Paris metro .

Basic French

I share this in my Paris for the First Time post, my market etiquette post, and my Paris dining post. Don't arrive in France without knowing a word of French. Two words specifically: BONJOUR (hello) and MERCI (thank you). Be sure and learn the basics: “please,” “police,” “emergency,” “bathroom.” etc. (here is a guide to bathrooms in Paris ).

Travel Packages

Many hotels, airlines, and travel agencies provide trip itineraries and travel packages for tourists. However, keep in mind that while these simplify the planning of a trip, travel packages seldom explore the haunts and hole-in-the-wall locations that Parisian locals prefer. Make time to explore away from the mainstream and the off-the-beaten-path while in Paris.

Okay. This is not unusual for France in general, especially during the months of May and October . But this year, there is an extra round of strikes around France's retirement pension reform that began in February and will continue throughout the spring which will impact your trip to Paris.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • That means the metro ( RER ), trains ( SNCF and RER), buses (RER), and sometimes taxis too.
  • Make sure your airport transfer is secured well in advance of any possible transit strikes. By pre-booking an airport transfer, you won't be stuck without transport and the hotel will take care of providing updates concerning delays or disruptions that may occur.
  • One thing I do is head to the CDG area the night before my flight so that any possible delays will not force me to miss my flight. I love the Sheraton Paris Airport Hotel but have also stayed at the Paris Marriott Charles de Gaulle Airport Hotel and citizenM Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport .
  • For air travel, 95% of the time international flights are not impacted. However, as soon as you arrive in France, you may have issues if you have inner-France connections to other French airports.
  • BUT you may have trouble getting to the airport on the day of a strike. Taxis will not be able to get through demonstrations at the airport and will drop you off in inconvenient locations and you will have to walk! My best advice is to ask the taxi driver to drop you off at ibis Paris CDG Airport it is a 5-minute covered walk to Terminal 3. Or the citizenM Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport .
  • Before heading out of your hotel check in with the front desk or concierge. They usually know where and when protests are planned. You do not want to be inadvertently swept up into a demonstration. 
  • Avoid the large public areas called “Places”, especially around Place de la Republique, Place de la Bastille, Place d'Italie, and Place de la Concorde.  
  • Tune into France24 online. It is in English and can help you keep track of what is going on in real-time. Also, try Gov.uk .
  • Download the Citymapper app for the latest transportation updates. This savvy app will keep you up-to-date on train and transit info, providing alternative routes when necessary.

Why is April a good time to visit Paris?

Bar-none, April is the best month out of the traditional tourist season to visit Paris. You'll miss the crowds, costs, and stress that come with visiting during peak season in the summer, while still enjoying the vibrant scenery, activities, and cuisine Paris have to offer.

Have you ever visited Paris in April? What was your experience? Did you go to any events? Do share!

PARIS IN:   Jan | Feb | Mar  | Apr | May | June | July | Aug | Sept | Oct | Nov | Dec

Illustrations commissioned from  Linden Eller .

Andi Fisher

I am married to a French man, lived in France for 3 years, and have been to Paris more than 50 times. I am always a tourist so the information, tip, and tricks I share are created to help you!

Like it? PIN it!

  • Look for fares using sites like  Skyscanner or Expedia.com . 
  • For France (Paris) coming from the West Coast , I typically fly Air France or United. From the East Coast , I typically fly Air France or Delta.
  • If you travel frequently, consider investing in a  Priority Pass  for airport lounge access. Not only will you have a spot to relax before your flight and charge your devices, but you can eat and drink for free (without paying crazy airport prices!)
  • I use  Expedia.com , Booking.com , and  Hotels.com  to find lodging. Always check the reviews on TripAdvisor before booking!
  • If you want to stay in a rental, look at  VRBO  and  Plum Guide .
  • For rental car agencies, try  Rentalcars.com . When traveling in Europe, I use  AutoEurope  to make reservations. They find the best rates and allow you to compare different car rental agencies. I typically book with Sixt .
  • For transportation from the CDG airport to anywhere within Paris, consider pre-booking with Get Transfer . It is one way to be stress-free and you can request an English-speaking driver.
  • I book tours with companies like Viator and GetYourGuide . Both have a wide variety of activities for every travel style. Other companies to look at include Tours by Locals and Withlocals.
  • If you’re visiting a city with multiple attractions, be sure to check out a discount pass, such as CityPASS or Go City .
  • Context Travel is another option and they offer more educational-based activities.
  • If you are looking to buy tickets to attractions, check out Tiquet .
  • One of my favorite things to do is to get photos taken of me while on vacation. Flytographer is a great option with photographers all over the world.
  • It’s important to have some type of travel insurance to cover any unforeseen accidents, illnesses, threats, or cancellations. I always travel with insurance and would recommend SafetyWing ,  SquareMouth or Travelex Insurance are good options.
  • Should you have any trouble with flight delays to the extent you feel you deserve compensation, I encourage you to check out and use AirHelp . I used them and for 1 claim I got compensated (transparency: a 2nd claim did not, but I was still glad I tried!).
  • Check out Le Shop for my digital travel planners and Paris planner !

The post Paris in April: 2024 appeared first on Misadventures with Andi .

Paris in April is shoulder season with mild weather, fewer crowds, unique events and lots of seasonal foods to enjoy!

World In Paris

Home > Paris Travel Tips > Paris Trip Planner: Step-by-Step Guide to Planning a Trip to Paris 2024

Paris Trip Planner: Step-by-Step Guide to Planning a Trip to Paris 2024

How to plan a trip to paris, france.

If you’re planning a trip to Paris in 2024, you will want to read this Paris Travel Planner . Paris for first-timers can be overwhelming; there are so many things to see and do! That’s why we want to help with our Paris Trip Planner .

This Paris Trip Planner covers everything you need to know to plan a trip to Paris, including the best time to visit Paris, where to stay, what to do, how to move around, and more.

Do you need help with your Paris trip planning? So let’s get started! Here’s how to plan a trip to Paris, France, you’ll never forget in easy steps that works for any kind of trip — no matter how long you’re going for! Just follow this step-by-step guide, and you’ll be off to Paris in no time!

Paris Travel Planning

Paris Travel Planner 2024 Content:

  • Best Time to Visit Paris
  • Booking your Flight or Train Ticket to Paris
  • Travel Insurance
  • Where to Stay in Paris
  • Accommodation in Paris
  • How to Get from Paris Airport to City
  • The Cheat Sheet for Your Paris Trip Planner
  • Paris Itinerary Planner
  • What to Eat & Drink in Paris
  • Day Trips from Paris
  • Planning a Trip to Paris: Know Before You Go

There is no best way to plan a trip to Paris, France, but if you follow this step-by-step Paris Planner, you won’t forget the essentials.

GOOD TO KNOW: If you are planning a honeymoon to Paris or a family trip to Paris, you can complete the reading of this Paris Travel Planner with our specific guides:

  • Paris honeymoon guide
  • Quick guide to Paris for kids

1. Best Time to Visit Paris

When is the best time to travel to Paris? “ Paris is always a good idea , ” and there is never a bad time to travel to Paris. The city has beautiful parks and picturesque streets that are great to explore under the sun. It also has some of the world’s best museums and other interesting indoor options when it rains, or it’s too cold to be outside.

TIP: In general, the best time to go to Paris is from May to October, and then December for the Christmas Holidays .

If you are flexible with dates, important things to consider when you are planning a Paris trip are the low /high tourist seasons and the weather in Paris. This is what you need to know:

Seasons in Paris

What is the best season to visit Paris? This graphic below represents the weather in Paris year-round, with average temperatures (in Celsius) and average rainfall (%).

Weather in Paris year round, Best Time to Visit Paris - Planning a Trip to Paris

>>   Spring is a good time to visit Paris. Spring means blue skies, the gardens in Paris in bloom , and animated café-terraces. The city is also famous for its cherry blossoms (check out our favorite cherry blossom spots in Paris ), usually in March and April.

However, temperatures are still fresh (minimums of 4C° to 10C°), with frequent showers. Don’t forget to pack an umbrella and a jacket in your day bag!

Spring Months in Paris

Square du Vert Galant - Paris

>> Summer in Paris comes with longer days and nice temperatures (maximums of 23C° to 25C°). With a long list of local festivals and events and cool outdoor activities everywhere, no wonder Paris is one of the best summer destinations in Europe !

However, summer is also the high season in Paris, which means more tourists, long lines to visit the main attractions, and higher prices.

Summer Months in Paris

Canal Saint-Martin Paris

>> Fall is, in our opinion, the best season for a first time in Paris. The colors of the trees are gorgeous, temperatures are still pleasant (maximums of 11C° to 21C°), and there are fewer tourists. In the last couple of years, we could organize outdoor activities until mid-November, with bright and sunny days.

Fall Months in Paris

Stairs of Montmartre - Paris

>> Winter in Paris is not the best time to visit Paris in terms of weather (minimums of 2C° to 7°C and only 4 to 5 hours of light), and sunset in Paris is very early. However, some people love to travel to Paris at Christmas time to see Paris’s decorations and illuminations and the best Christmas markets in Paris .

Paris is also a popular destination for Saint Valentine’s  in February. There are many romantic things to do in Paris !

Winter Months in Paris

Winter in Paris

Tourist Seasons in Paris

>>  The high season in Paris is considered from 1st April to 31st October. It means nice weather and more hours of daylight and many people will tell you this is the best time to visit Paris.

But at the same time, the high season in Paris is not the best season to plan a trip to Paris in terms of budget (best accommodation sold out, higher prices). Also, the city is too crowded with tourists – especially in the summer – while locals are somewhere else on holiday.

>> The low season in Paris goes from 1st November to 31st March, except for Paris at Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Paris . This is the cheapest time to travel to Paris and the best time to visit Paris to avoid crowds. If you decide to travel off-season, you will get a more local experience, and it will be easier to find good deals on accommodation, for example.

In the end, Paris is a movable feast and (sun or rain) you will have a great time!

Paris Olympics 2024

Olympic Rings Hotel de Ville - Paris

The Summer Olympics 2024 will be held in Paris and France from Friday, 26 July to Sunday, 11 August 2024 . This will be the biggest event ever organized in the country, so expect more visitors than usual (=book everything NOW!).

If you are planning a trip to Paris around these dates, check out our Paris Olympics 2024 Guide so you don’t miss anything on such a historical event.

Best Time to Visit Paris: Our Tips for your Paris Trip Planning

Be flexible with your dates. Flexibility is key, especially if you are planning a trip to Paris on a budget. Flight tickets or train tickets to Paris will be more expensive:

  • During the school holidays in France ;
  • During holidays in France or Europe;
  • Weekend trips (Friday to Sunday);
  • During special events like New Year’s Eve or Saint Valentine’s Day.

If you are a museum lover visiting Paris for the first time, the best time to go to Paris will probably be the first weekend of the month when you can visit many museums in Paris for free. Some of these museums have this offer all year round, while other museums are only free during the winter months.

2. Booking your Flight or Train Ticket to Paris

train station in Paris

Flight Tickets to Paris

Paris has three airports: Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) , north of Paris; Paris Orly (ORY) , south of Paris; and Paris-Beauvais (BVA) . Despite its name, Paris Beauvais is not in Paris but in the city of Beauvais (80 km north of Paris, in the Hauts-de-France region).

If you are traveling to Paris from somewhere overseas, you will probably land at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) . Paris Orly Airport (ORY) is used mainly for flights to /from Europe and North Africa, while Paris-Beauvais Airport (BVA) is mainly for Ryan Air flights.

Charles de Gaulle Airport and Orly Airport are more or less at the same distance from Paris, so if you are traveling from Europe, you can choose whatever flight (or flight company) you like. We don’t like Orly Airport (ORY) that much, so we always try to book flights from /to Paris Charles de Gaulle. But this is just our opinion.

Lately, we like to book our flights with Omio , a search engine for all major forms of transport that is very easy to use! It has different filters – time, number of scales, departure time – so the research and booking process is straightforward – Click here to buy your flight tickets to Paris with Omio

Train Tickets to Paris

If you live in Europe, high-speed trains are a good and definitely a more eco-friendly option for your trip to Paris. Here are some of the main European destinations served from the stations in Paris.

  • Gare du Nord: London (Eurostar), Brussels, Cologne, and Amsterdam (Thalys)
  • Gare de l’Est: Germany, and Luxembourg
  • Gare de Lyon: Switzerland (Geneva, Zurich), Italy, and Catalunya (Girona, Barcelona)
  • Gare d’Austerlitz: Western Spain.

We like and recommend Omio to book train tickets from /to Paris. The website is straightforward to use, it is written in English, and it proposes interesting promotions from time to time – Click here to buy your train tickets to Paris with Omio

Our readers from the UK and Australia, however, prefer  Trainline , probably because it has its headquarters in the UK. Trainline is also in English and works more or less like Omio.

So there’s the Omio team and the Trainline team, but you should always find the same information and ticket prices in both sites.

3. Don’t Skimp on Travel Insurance

Don’t skimp on Travel Insurance when you plan your trip to Paris 2024. Since anything can happen while traveling, the best thing you can do for yourself is to be insured.

Before going through other aspects of your Paris planning, ensure you are completely covered before traveling to minimize the financial risks of theft, loss of luggage, or flight cancellation.

SafetyWing has super affordable plans for budget travelers for long and short trips. While marketed as “Nomad Insurance,” you can get it for as little as five days. You can sign up for SafetyWing insurance even if your journey has already started! – Click here to get a quote for your next trip to Paris.

HeyMondo is another option for your Paris trip. It offers travelers insurance that combines medical and travel-related coverage for single trips (leisure and business trips), annual multi-trip, and extended stays (with COVID-19 coverage included). Use this link to get a 5% off .

You can also compare plans, prices, and coverage with Travel Insurance Master , a comparison site that will find the perfect fit for you amongst the world’s leading programs. Travel Insurance Master is also the best place to look for senior travelers .

Schengen Area Travel Insurance

For those who require a visa to enter France or any other Schengen country , travel insurance covering repatriation and medical expenses is compulsory. The necessary visa to enter Europe will not be issued unless you provide proof of suitable coverage – Buy your travel insurance with HeyMondo

4. Where to Stay in Paris

Planning a trip to Paris for the first time can be challenging, especially when it comes to deciding which area you want to stay in Paris.

Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements (=districts of Paris), which are also administrative divisions. In each Paris Arrondissement , there is a town hall (Mairie), a mayor and elected officials, a council, a politician, and so on. Of course, each division is still subject to the city’s overall policy and the mayor of Paris, the socialist Anne Hidalgo.

To find your bearings in Paris , there is a little trick: the 1st Paris arrondissement is in the center of Paris, then the other Paris arrondissements are located forming a spiral turning clockwise, to finish in the 20th in the east. Check out our Districts of Paris Guide to learn more about the Arrondissements of Paris.

Map of Paris by Arrondissement

Where to stay in Paris? The best area to stay in Paris very much depends on the sort of trip you’re planning. Check our suggestions below for sightseeing, luxury, family, and first-time trips to Paris.

paris trip april 2023

5. Accommodation in Paris

Hotels in Paris

So you got your train or flight tickets for your Paris trip, and the countdown starts! In the previous chapter, you have more or less decided where to stay in Paris (the Arrondissement of Paris). The next step of your Paris travel plan is to book accommodation in Paris.

Hotels and Hostels in Paris

Hotels can be so much more than a simple place to rest your head, and a city like Paris cannot disappoint in terms of accommodation: your Paris hotel can be just as memorable as your sightseeing!

When it comes to booking your bed in Paris, the best site to search and compare different accommodation options in Europe is Booking.com because you have everything from hostels to luxury hotels. What we have found quite regularly on Booking.com is that you can get a room in a small hotel for the same price as a hostel. Research makes all the difference!

Click here to book your hotel with Booking.com

>> For a top Paris experience, stay in a hotel with views of the Eiffel Tower or, even better, in one of the fabulous historic hotels of Paris . All these hotels are gorgeous and the beginning of a five-star Parisian experience!

>> Truth be told, these historic hotels are not for all the pockets. But there are many unique themed hotels in Paris that certainly know how to give their guests a memorable and colorful stay for less money. If you plan a trip to Paris in the summer, consider one of the Paris hotels with a pool for the warmest days.

>> For those people traveling on a budget, we hand-picked the  best hostels in Paris (with dorms but also private rooms). You will be surprised at how cute our proposals are, but in a city like Paris, it could not be otherwise!

Check out these lists of best hotels in the most popular neighborhoods in Paris:

  • Best hotels near the Louvre Museum
  • Best hotels in Le Marais
  • Best hotels in the Latin Quarter
  • Best hotels in Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Furnished Apartments in Paris

For a much more local experience, consider renting an apartment in Paris . This is definitely a much more local option than a hotel or a hostel, plus you can even cook some of your meals to save money. And there are some apartments with Eiffel Tower views too!

If you decide to rent an apartment in Paris, we recommend Booking.com , which also does  apartment rentals for travelers with excellent service. With Booking.com, you can have all your hotel and apartment bookings under the same dashboard, plus their customer service is excellent – Find the Best Apartments in Paris with Booking.com

GOOD TO KNOW: Furnished apartments are very requested in Paris, especially in tourist areas. For this reason, apartment owners prioritize bookings for longer stays rather than just a weekend.

Accommodation in Paris: Our Tips for your Paris Trip Planning

>> Book in advance for more options and better prices.

>> Avoid Famous Places in Paris  if you are traveling on a budget.

>> Consider one of the best hotels near Gare du Nord for late arrivals or early departures from this train station. They are good, safe, and cheaper than in the most popular neighborhoods.

>> Check out our Hotel Recommendations in our articles by Paris Arrondissement .

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6. How to Get from Paris Airport to the City

Transportation to Paris City

If you don’t live in Europe, you will probably fly to Paris. There are currently 153 air companies flying to Paris so that you can fly to the City of Light from anywhere in the world!

There are two airports near Paris: Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and Orly Airport (ORY). You have different options to get to Paris, depending on which airport you land at.

Best Transportation Options from Paris Airports to City

Our personal recommendation is to pre-book with Welcome Pickups , a reliable and top-rated private transfer service. Your driver will wait for you outside of the arrivals hall with a sign bearing your name, plus a bottle of water and a map of the city. Welcome Pickups have introduced strict safety protocols to protect drivers and guests.

>> Full list of transportation options from CDG Airport to Paris

>> Full list of transportation options from ORY Airport to Paris

7. The Cheat Sheet for Your Paris Trip Planner

Seine River in Paris

The next step of your Paris plan is to decide what to see and do. If this is your first trip to Paris, the lists below cover the main attractions and the most iconic things to do in Paris.

>> 50 Iconic Things to Do in Paris

>> Paris Checklist

>> Best Rooftop Bars in Paris

>> Best Cabarets in Paris

>> Top Things to Do in Paris at Night

>> Most Beautiful Covered Passages of Paris

>> Best Seine River Cruises in Paris

>> Famous Buildings in Paris

>> Famous Paris Landmarks

TIP: Check out the best Paris combo tickets , good combinations of 2-3 Paris tickets & tours that make you save time and money!

8. Paris Itinerary Planner

Berges de la Seine - Paris

If you are planning a trip to Paris for the first time and need some inspiration for your Paris travel plan, these Paris itineraries for one day to a week will be helpful.

>> One Day in Paris Itinerary

>> Two Days in Paris Itinerary

>> Three Days in Paris Itinerary

>> Four Days in Paris Itinerary

>> Five Days in Paris Itinerary

>> Six Days in Paris Itinerary

>> One Week in Paris Itinerary

Layover in Paris

If your vacation includes a layover in Paris, it is possible to get a glimpse of what the city offers before your next flight.

If your top priority is to see the Eiffel Tower , it is possible to have a quick ride from the airport to the city center to check it out from your bucket list. Head here for the best ways to go to the Eiffel Tower from Charles de Gaulle Airport, or check out this article for the best ways to go from Orly Airport to the Eiffel Tower.

With a long layover in Paris , you can consider a short itinerary to see some of Paris’ main sites. Check out how to spend a layover in Paris , with some proposals for short itineraries and our best tips.

TIP: This Paris layover tour from the airport always gets the best ratings!   

9. What to Eat & Drink in Paris

Bistros of Paris

When you travel to Paris, be sure to learn about French food in Paris and the best things to eat in Paris. If you’re not trying the food, you are far away from getting to know the culture. We have hand-picked our best food articles for this Paris Trip Planner 2024.

>> Paris Food Guide

>> Where to Eat in Paris

>> French Wine Regions near Paris

>> Famous Foods to Try  in Paris

>> Best Bistros in Paris

>> Best Cheap Eats in Paris

>> Best Parisian Cakes (born and perfectioned in Paris!)

>> Best Desserts in Paris

If you are looking for restaurant recommendations, this blog also lists the best restaurants in Paris by district .

10. Day Trips from Paris

If you have an extra day or two, don’t hesitate to go beyond Paris. Check out the ultimate list of best day trips from Paris , featuring historic cities, seaside towns, world heritage wonders, and adventures in the great French countryside.

Versailles is the most popular day trip from Paris. Home to the Kings of France between 1662 and 1789, the Palace of Versailles is one of the most important landmarks in French history, also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage. The Gardens of Versailles are beautiful to see too! Check out our Versailles Quick Guide to get the most out of this wonderful place.

Disneyland Paris is a must for families visiting the French capital. Check out how to get from Paris to Disneyland Paris and this Disneyland Paris crowd calendar for the quietest days in Mickeyland!

For a more local feeling, there are many picturesque small towns near Paris very easy to reach by train.

11. Planning a Trip to Paris: Know Before You Go

Best way to see the Louvre

Check out our Paris insider tips for your first time in Paris.

>> Most of the hotels and hostels in Paris offer free Wi-Fi for their guests. You can also get a prepaid SIM card for your trip, which will allow you to communicate with other numbers in France and keep you connected to the internet all the time. Here are the best prepaid SIM cards for France (and how to get them).

>> Paris is one of the most visited cities on this planet. In 2018, 17.95 million international overnight tourists visited the city mainly for sightseeing and shopping. Read how to avoid the longest lines in Paris’ main attractions .

>> The Parisian Metro is nearly 115 years old, the second oldest metro after London’s tube system! The metro now serves 6 million out of 10.5 million people in Paris. Learn how to navigate the Parisian metro with our Paris Metro Guide .

>> Arguably the most famous museum in the world, the Louvre Museum is also the biggest! Indeed, it would take 100 days to see all of the art in the Louvre Museum. Learn how to get the most out of the Louvre in 2 hours or less .

>> The Parisian style is simple, chic, and beautiful. Parisian’s motto is ‘Less is More,’ with a minimum of versatile and easy-to-combine items. If your Paris planning includes making the perfect packing list, check out our suggestions for men and women on what to pack and what to wear in Paris to blend in with the local crowd.

>> One week before leaving for Paris, check out this post about the Paris strikes 2024 . Just in case…

Consider a Paris Tourist Pass

Lines to visit the main Paris tourist attractions are guaranteed. Long lines. If you are planning a Paris trip and you want to visit most of its famous sights, you may want to consider a Paris Tourist Pass for you Paris trip plan.

The  Paris Museum Pass offers visitors direct access to 55 of Paris’s top attractions and museums in Paris. The Paris Museum Pass is available for 2, 4, or 6 consecutive days. If your schedule in Paris is tight and you don’t want to spend your time waiting in line, the Paris Museum Pass is for you.

There are other interesting tourist passes for visiting Paris; check out our Paris Pass Comparison for the full list.

So there you have it, how to plan a Paris trip 2024 you’ll never forget. Go on reading this Paris travel blog 2024 for more information and the history and culture in Paris.

Click here to read more Paris Tips

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About WORLD IN PARIS

Quirky parisian explorer with a preference for lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about me ., i am elisa, the travel blogger behind world in paris. quirky explorer with a preference for the local side of my city and its lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & my best tips learn more.

paris trip april 2023

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If traveling to Paris, the cheapest city to fly from in the last 3 days was New York , with flights as low as $156 one-way and $253 round-trip. Flights from Boston are the most searched and start at $253 for a return trip.

How much is a flight to Paris?

On average, a flight to paris costs $817. the cheapest price found on kayak in the last 2 weeks cost $170 and departed from new york john f kennedy intl airport. the most popular routes on kayak are los angeles to paris which costs $889 on average, and new york to paris, which costs $830 on average., see prices from:, what is the cheapest day to fly to paris, based on kayak data, the cheapest day to fly to paris is wednesday where tickets can be as cheap as $846. on the other hand, the most expensive day to fly is saturday, where prices are $978 on average., what is the cheapest month to fly to paris, the cheapest month for flights to paris is february, where tickets cost $609 on average for one-way flights. on the other hand, the most expensive months are july and june, where the average cost of tickets from the united states is $1,400 and $1,251 respectively. for return trips, the best month to travel is january with an average price of $536., what is the cheapest time of day to fly to paris, the cheapest time of day to fly to paris is generally at night, when flights cost $621 on average. the most expensive time of day to fly to paris is generally in the evening, which is peak travel time and where the average cost of a ticket is $713., what is a good deal for flights to paris, if you’re looking for cheap airfare to paris, 25% of our users found tickets to paris for the following prices or less: from los angeles $316 one-way - $686 round-trip, from newark airport $370 one-way - $644 round-trip, from miami $428 one-way - $733 round-trip., how far in advance should i book a flight to paris, to get a below average price, you should book around 3 weeks before departure. for the absolute cheapest price, our data suggests you should book 69 days before departure., which is the cheapest airport to fly into in paris, prices will differ depending on the departure airport, but generally, the cheapest airport to fly to in paris is paris beauvais-tille airport, with an average flight price of $55., which airlines fly to paris, airlines flying the most to paris from united states are air france, delta and american airlines. see the amount of flights per week for popular airlines flying to paris., which airline offers the most flights to paris, of the 10 airlines that fly to paris, air france offers the most flights, with around 715 per week, followed by easyjet with 103 flights per week., how many airports are there in paris, there are 5 airports in paris: paris charles de gaulle airport (cdg), paris orly airport (ory), paris beauvais-tille airport (bva), châlons-en-champagne chalons-vatry airport (xcr) and paris-le bourget airport (lbg). the busiest airport is paris charles de gaulle airport (cdg), with 64% of all flights arriving there., how long is the flight to paris, the duration of your flight to paris depends on your departure and arrival airports. obviously any flights that include a layover will also be longer. the most popular routes to paris on kayak are from new york , which takes 7h 05m, newark , which takes 7h 05m, miami , which takes 8h 50m, and los angeles , which takes 10h 25m., how many direct flights to paris are there each day, there are around 99 direct flights from within united states to paris every day. most flights depart in the evening, with 6:00 pm the most common departure time and 44% of flights departing in the evening., how many direct flights to paris are there each week, each week there are around 691 direct flights from within united states to paris. the most common day for departures is friday, with 15% of flights taking off on this day., how many long-haul flights are there to paris each week, each week, there are 673 long haul flights (6-12 hour flight duration) and 18 medium-haul flights (3-6 hour flight duration) to paris. there aren't any short-haul flights (up to 3 hour flight duration)., how many cities have direct flights to paris, from the united states, there are direct flights to paris from 21 cities. the city with the most direct flights is new york, with 204 direct flights each week., good to know, when to book flights to paris, faqs - booking paris flights, are there any kid facilities at cdg.

Allow your kids to amuse themselves after your flight to Charles de Gaulle Airport at any of the six kid’s play areas. They have televisions airing kids’ programs, hopscotch, and maze on soft mats. Terminal 2E is home to five kids’ areas (near Doors K36, M25, K49, M45, and L28) and one in Gate 4 of Terminal 3. You will also find kids’ toilets and changing tables in all restrooms in the airport.

What terminal transfer services are available at CDG Airport?

Three free shuttle routes connect the three CDG terminals. The N1 shuttle bus serves Terminal 2's sub terminals 2A, 2C, 2D, 2E, and 2F, the CDG 2 train station, and the PW parking lot. On the other hand, the N2 shuttle bus serves Terminal 2, stopping at the 2E, 2F, and 2G sub terminals. The CDGVal automated people-mover train stops at each terminal and the PX and PR parking lots.

Are there any hotels near Paris-Beauvais Airport (BVA)?

Flights to Paris may be hectic and tiring. If you are feeling worn, consider booking a stay at Hostellerie Saint Vincent Beauvais, which has good proximity to BVA and attractions such as the Beauvais Cathedral. The facility offers French cuisine and a breakfast-in-bed. Another good option is Welcomotel Beauvais Aeroport, approximately a 10-minute drive from BVA. It is pet-friendly and offers shuttles at a fee.

Where can I get massages at CDG Airport?

If you want to get rid of that neck kink, Terminal 2E hosts the BeRelax Spa, which offers a full range of holistic treatments like massages, facials, and mani/pedis. Throughout Terminal 2, you will also find Be Relax kiosks offering express massages. If you wish to save cash, the airport has massage chairs situated throughout the property.

What is there to do at Charles de Gaulle Airport?

Located at the Terminal 2E, the Espace Musique lounge is a complimentary lounge where visitors can relax in comfortable individual listening stations. Visitors have access to the Universal Music Catalogue along with a selection of radio stations. There’s a viewing room where guests can watch the latest films and TV shows for free.

Are there hotels near Charles de Gaulle Airport?

Hidden within Charles de Gaulle Airport is YotelAir. It is nestled within Terminal 2E after security, allowing travelers a little bit of luxury and privacy within the confines of CDG. Along with rooms offering TVs, workstations and en suite bathrooms, there are lounges for relaxation.

Are there hotels near Orly Airport?

While Orly may not have a hotel directly within its premises, there are multiple hotels within minutes of its terminals. Orly Superior Hotel, Novotel Paris Coeur d'Orly Airport, and Ibis Paris Coeur d'Orly Airport all offer complimentary shuttles to and from the airport.

What is there to do at Orly Airport?

Travelers can read the day away while relaxing in Orly’s library. Leather couches, books, magazines, and tablets are all available for use. They even have a collection of children’s books for young travelers.

How far are the Paris airports from each other?

If you need to travel between Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports, the driving distance is approximately 45 minutes. You can also use the RER train service from within Charles de Gaulle airport and the OrlyVal shuttle train to Orly airport. Shuttle services direct from both airports are also available.

Which Paris airport is closest to central Paris?

There are 4 major airports in Paris. The nearest airport from Paris city center is Paris-Le Bourget (9 miles), followed by Paris Orly Airport (9 miles), Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (14 miles), and Paris Beauvais-Tille (42 miles).

On average, a flight to Paris costs $817. The cheapest price found on KAYAK in the last 2 weeks cost $170 and departed from New York John F Kennedy Intl Airport.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights to Paris?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights to Paris.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket to Paris?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Paris is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights to Paris?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Paris with an airline and back with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight to Paris?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Paris up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Paris

  • Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Paris flight deals.
  • Paris is serviced by two major international airports . Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) serves as the largest international hub for Paris and for France in general, while Paris Orly Airport (ORY) is more domestically focused and is one of the busiest domestic hubs in France.
  • Paris-Beauvais Airport serves as a tertiary budget option for many European travelers as well. Though technically located in the Picardy region some 50 miles north of Paris, the airport remains an important hub for discount flights to Paris .
  • Trains and buses offer easy and quick access to both Orly and Charles de Gaulle. Both SNCF and RER B trains connect directly to CDG, while RER B and C trains and Tramway 7 connect to Orly. The RER trains are often the cheapest and one of the quickest ways to reach either airport. Shuttle buses, though slower than trains, also are a good option for many travelers after their flight to Paris, as they offer direct routes from the airport to many of the most famous sites in Paris.
  • If you're unwell, Paris Orly Airport (ORY) offers urgent medical care and pharmacy services . Medical services are at Terminal 1-2 near Gate 10A, whereas the pharmacy is at Gate 21D.
  • Are you a business traveler looking to stay productive while at the airport? Stay on top of your work at the Paris Orly’s Hall B in South Terminal. It is equipped with working stations as well as charging ports.
  • If you want to relax at any of the lounges at Paris Orly Airport, obtain a lounge permit or pay at the door regardless of your flying class of service. The new Extime Lounge is in the duty-free area at Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport, Terminal 2BD and Terminal 1, while the Premium Traveler Lounge is at Orly 1.
  • There are several chapels at Charles de Gaulle airport (CDG) for passengers to pray, reflect, and meditate . Terminal 1 hosts an interfaith chapel on Level 2, whereas Level 1 is home to a synagogue. There is a Multifaith Prayer Area at the Arrivals Level of Terminal 4 and Multifaith Offices at Gate H of Terminal 4 and Level 2 of Terminal 1.
  • Passengers disembarking at Paris Orly Airport are greeted by artwork displayed at the Paris Orly South Terminal. The sketches give the airport life, transforming travelers’ experiences.
  • As one of the fashion capitals of the world, Paris unsurprisingly maintains this reputation even in its airports – Lacoste and Burberry are both located in Orly. In Charles de Gaulle, there are numerous high fashion boutiques such as Louis Vuitton, Hermes, and Chanel.
  • For travelers with a love for vintage video games, CDG has you covered. Gaming areas with play stations and arcade games are located in both Halls L and K. After all, what better way could there be to spend a layover than catching up on some gaming classics?

Prefer to fly non-stop to Paris?

Find which airlines fly direct to Paris, which days they fly and book direct flights.

Nonstop departures

United States to Paris

AMELIA, ANA, ASL Airlines France, +123 more

AMELIA, ANA, +124 more

AMELIA, ANA, AccesRail, +125 more

AMELIA, ANA, +126 more

AMELIA, ANA, AccesRail, +119 more

AMELIA, ANA, +120 more

AMELIA, ANA, ASL Airlines France, +121 more

AMELIA, ANA, +122 more

AMELIA, ANA, ASL Airlines France, +125 more

ANA, ASL Airlines France, AccesRail, +117 more

ANA, ASL Airlines France, +118 more

Nonstop returns

Paris to United States

Top 5 airlines flying to paris.

Rated entertainment as Mediocre as there were major problems with the Infotainment system that took probably a half hour for them to fix.

Your crew could maybe answer the call bell at least one of the times I pressed it. I pressed it first time with 2.5 hours left in our flight bc my partner was hungry and wanted a sandwich. We finally got the sandwich with 40 mins left in the flight.

Half the bathrooms assigned to economy were out of action

Delta crushed it. Flight attendant in first was attentive and just never stopped. Honestly one of the best domestic flights I’ve been on.

They were an hour late and they didn’t have my wheelchair for me

The Flight crew didn’t serve us until about 1.5 hours into the flight because of turbulence but after it ended it was fine to move around. They served us water only and snacks and then NEVER, NOT ONE TIME came through to collect trash until right before landing about 1.5 hours later. There was absolutely no need for that. They crew was just standing around talking and visiting with each other and really never tried to see if we might want something besides water or even try to come pick up trash. This is VERY unusual for a Delta flight but it was not what I would have expected for a 4 hour flight.

The 1st class male crew member was very pleasant - the short female with round glasses , maybe in 50’s had no personality- never spoke when delivering my food, drink, & never smiled the whole trip! In fact looked annoyed when the boarding proses was happening- I would never hire this woman - unfriendly . Have never dealt with a crew member like her-

5-hour delay due to storms in Tanoa and airspace restricted by Miami traffic controllers.

A regional sized plane was used for a cross country flight with no overhead bin space. I had to "pink check" my laptop and my medications. I was NOT pleased!!!!

Absolutely nothing flight was cancelled and delayed for 2 days. Barely a heads up I want a full refund

My only issue was my meal was inedible except for the sides.

Old cabine without flat bed in business for a 12 hour flight is not acceptable

Generally good. The crew is excellent. The food could be better.

Did not find the wheelchair that supposed to assist and went to a long queue for transit security chk which was very slow and boarding desk wanted to close counter although that they knew that I am minutes away because of their mistake of not providing the wheelchair.

Boarding was smooth and on time. The seat was comfortable and the entertainment worked. Staff were gracious.

Business class in the second leg - CDG-EVN was a disaster.

I have used Air France and KLM many times it will help if they change their menu's feel like it's been the same for years!!!, Especially the breakfast. Overall the flight was good and enjoyable.

No birding was given for next trip on same carrier, food was very moderate.

We transited through Chad and what was supposed to be a 1hr 20 minutes transit time lasted over 4hrs. We didn't get regular updates until we complained. After a 10hr flight from Paris no form of refreshment given and finally arrived Abuja over 6hrs later and none of my bags came

The line at boarding was not well organized and managed

Not being able to get a different seat with above average height unless I would pay for a seat ($41). Poor included beverage choice. Food: I’m am not picky in terms of food but that was the most horrific set of options ever experienced, for me and my fellow passengers. In my row no one was able to finish their food. Literal dog-grade chow. If you want to be cheap, at this point provide us with actual COMBAT RATIONS. You would save money, passengers would get enough food and better taste.

Nice travel , but would have been better if luggage was included in the price and not an extra charge..

Norse Atlantic is the worst airline I’ve ever traveled with, and i travel a lot. First, they made me check my carry on duffle (never had a problem before) because my backpack they said “isn’t a personal item”. It fits under the seat so yes it is a personal item. $125€ for the duffle and $125€ for my wife’s checked bag, $250€ for two bags, RIPOFF! Once on the flight we got delayed 45mins because the attendants/airline were giving a handicap gentleman a hard time about his scooter which they had already given him permission to bring on board. He also stated he’s never had this problem, & after a lengthy discussion they finally realized they were wrong since it wasn’t ion battery operated and he had all the paperwork. Eventually they allowed him to stow it above his seat which they watched his wife struggle with for over a minute before they helped her. Also, Make sure you purchase food in advance! This airline is EVERYTHING for purchase, from WATER to SNACKS to BLANKETS. Yes, WATER. International flight and not a single thing free. People were literally lining up to the bathroom with empty water bottles to fill up in the sink. The Aircraft was criminally FREEZING as if they intentionally jacked up the air so people would buy $7€ blankets. People were changing into layers in the bathroom & bringing down their carry-ons so they could find layers in their suitcases. Those that didn’t have layers in their bag or had to check their bags had to endure an 8.5hr torture session from Rome to JFK. Add all that to the ridiculous timing of turning on the lights (red eye) so they could come down the aisle with duty “free” options for purchase. A hot topic between passengers while waiting to deboard/get through customs. I wouldn’t fly Norse Atlantic Airways again if they paid me.

I payed for luggage but there was additional luggage charge this wasn’t clear when i purchased.

The crew from Norse was absolutely great! Friendly, respectful and professional! They helped me resolve my baggage issue in Fiumicino, which was a long process and one of the counter girls was her first day at work 😌 they were all great. And later, when they found my 87 year old mom who got completely lost at Fiumicino in a different terminal, all by herself.. they were patient and kind and treated everyone with respect and care. Grazie Norse!!

Crew was excellent, very friendly and professional. Seating was very tight…I’m not a tall person and my knees were touching the seat in front of me. A little bit more legroom would be great.

Chaotic check in. It took an extra hour to haul all across large LAX airport three different times back & fourth. Had no access to duty free shop.

Great flight for great price. Only thing they need is on board Wi-Fi and an app.

It was cold, blankets would have been a big plus.

Airline was unable to check me in, even though I had a valid US visa which they called to confirm. Their system still did not allow check in. If you have a visa don’t travel on this airline. Will be seeking a refund.

Flyplay is the only way I travel to Europe. Had a 15 hr layover in Iceland. Normally this would suck, but I regret a car and saw the black sand beaches, several waterfalls and sky lagoon. And finished with lamb at cafe Loki.

did not get the seats we had specially paid for

This is a no frills airline. You cant expect much for the price. Low cost flight, clean, nice staff. That's all I need for the price. If you want more, book with another airline and pay more. For Europe trips, PLAY is the ONLY airline I use

Misleading instructions for check in. Although I did virtual check in and was instructed to head to security, once I was at security, they told me to go back to Play ticket counter and get paper tickets. Also, beware that Play doesn’t participate in TSA PreCheck. I didn’t know that, despite entering PreCheck info when I purchased the tickets. I wasted time in the TSA PreCheck line as well. So we had two setbacks at check in.

It's a budget airline, so forewarned is forearmed. Yes, you pay for everything like carry-on, checked baggage, seat selection, but that's becoming the case with major airlines. Bringing your own snacks and entertainment on board is highly recommended. It's no frills, but the crew, the plane and the flight itself was great. If you want pampering go for a larger airline. If you just want to get from A to B in comfort and safety, Play is a great choice.

It is a low cost airline. Staff are courteous. There is no entertainment. Food is purchased.

Upon boarding, the people at the gate were extremely rude, there were no outlets on a 6 hour international flight, there was no entertainment, all food and drink was purchase only (even snacks), and my seat reclining function was fully broken. The only redeeming quality was the flight attendants were extremely nice. This was by far the worst flight I have ever been on in my entire life

I don’t know how international flights can’t have media screens to keep people entertained for the long flight. Ugh.

Typical experience for budget airline. Boarding from KEF required bus transit from the gate to plane, so if you had "priority boarding" it was useless as it was simply a free-for-all when getting off the bus. But still no issues with getting our luggage into overhead bin so not really a problem.

Was very apprehensive about flying Play, but the flight was fine. Nothing special, nothing horrible. Fair price to get from New York to Iceland.

The company lost my luggage on a direct flight from LAX to ORLY. We have tried to call them daily but they do not have a human customer service agent. We submitted upon arrival and online but again, no response. We easily have items that add up to $2000 and under the Montreal Convention they should be held responsible for compensation. But again, no response and I’m going to get legal representation if we do not hear back within 21 days of the flight and lost baggage.

everything is an extra cost on this flight, you need to pay to have a your children sit next to you (they won’t change the seat for your kids to sit next to you without charging you), food is an extra you need to pay for on a 12 hour flight, no drinks or snacks throughout the flight, the media selection is subpar and your phone has more options

Many families including ours we seated separately. For kids entertainment only 2 cartoons for 11 hour flight. Checked bag $100 each. Everything else was fine

The boarding process was completely disorganized, adding avoidable stress, and the airline's business model is tight spaces, but seats that recline more to make sleep easier in economy. The passenger behind us did not understand that and shook our chair saying we're reclining too much. We immediately brought the flight attendants in to mediate and deescalate the situation, and they didn't. The passenger behind us kept harassing my wife throughout the 8 hour flight. They should be better trained in this regard if this is the airline's business model and promise to passengers like us who review leg space and reclining angles before purchasing a fare on the airline.

The orthopedic sits, no room to move, no reclining, was horrible and because that I'm still in pain and aches in my whole body

Seats were uncomfortable. Lower back support would be nice. It was the usual for an airplane. Other than that, everything was wonderful. Even my kids said the food was good! Nice to get a blanket and set of earbuds.

Flight got canceled, took us 3 hrs in line to give us vouchers for hotel and meals, which was chaotic and then went to hotel and the voucher did not work at hotel, had to pay and apply for reimbursement and waiting for payment

Better than expected from a low cost airline! The food, seat and overall experience was great! I would fly with them again.

We were there on time we checked in early online and when we got to the airport we only had one code ticket and not the other one, the people at the desk didn’t want to print the other ticket since we didn’t have it on the phone

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Travel Fashion Girl

What to Wear in Paris: Packing List (2024 Update)

Europe Packing List , Packing Lists , Travel Packing Lists

what-to-wear-in-paris

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Wondering what to wear in Paris? Need inspiration for a Paris outfit? This packing list will help you plan for your dream trip. With a stylish Parisian capsule wardrobe, you won’t look out of place with these tips!

What to Pack for Paris

Table of contents.

We want you to have a stress-free travel experience, and the main goal of this article is to help you plan your packing choices in an efficient way so you won’t be unprepared for your trip and know how to dress in Paris.

You’ll find insight on general Parisian attire, in addition to visual examples of the type of clothing you might want to wear based on the weather and how to build a Paris wardrobe.

As a bonus, you will also learn some general travel tips including safety precautions such as using anti-theft products like this that  can help you feel less stressed during your travels.

For more ideas on what to wear in Paris, please read:

  • Ten-Step Packing Guide for Paris
  • What to Wear in Paris in Summer
  • What to Wear in Paris in Winter
  • Best Travel Dresses for Paris
  • Paris Travel Essentials
  • French Fashion Tips
  • What Shoes to Pack for Paris
  • Best Luggage for Paris
  • What to Pack for Paris Olympics

Please use the visuals in this post as a guideline to help you create Paris outfits and choose corresponding items based on your own style and clothing preferences.

paris trip april 2023

Travelon Anti-theft Signature 3 Compartment Crossbody Bag  | Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack

What do people wear in Paris?

When considering how to dress in Paris, it is important to remember that the city style is tailored and chic, yet conservative with an edge. Parisians love neutral colors and adhere to the “No more than 3 colors” rule.

To avoid standing out as a tourist on the Parisian streets, avoid items like original UGG boots, clunky tennis shoes, flip flops, and baggy sweatpants. Paris clothes look presentable at all times; your goal is to maintain a comfortable look, while exuding femininity and edge.

These are some popular shoes for Paris !

As with most destinations, practical sense applies and choosing clothing based on the weather should always be a priority over fashion. 

In general, Paris everyday fashion is more dressy than American style. This DOES NOT mean business clothing. For Paris clothing styles, think dressy top (or the type of top you’d wear to work) plus nice jeans (dark colors are always a good choice). In general, relaxed but polished pants are seen everywhere, specifically wide leg pants or wide leg jeans , or opt for comfortable jeans to complete your Paris attire.

When choosing Paris outfits for girls and women, leave the beachwear on the beach because it doesn’t translate well to streetwear in the city. The same goes for gym wear; unless you’re actually headed to the gym, don’t dress in your gym attire as the locals will instantly recognize you as a tourist for the lack of effort that has been put into your wardrobe.

what-to-wear-in-paris

Eddie Bauer Girl On The Go Trench Coat (Plus)  |  Cole Haan Hooded Coat with Detatchable Faux Fur Trim

What should I wear in Paris?

The most important factors in planning and packing for Paris are the activities you’ll be doing on your trip AND the weather.

Always, always, always check the weather forecast before your trip. What to wear in Paris now could be different a week later. Nothing will ruin your trip faster than being unprepared with the wrong clothing for the weather. Paris summer fashion is very different than winter fashion.

Once you’ve researched the weather, you can focus on creating a capsule travel wardrobe , which should easily fit in a carryon suitcase with the help of  packing cubes  to compress your clothing.

what-to-wear-in-pairs

Vionic Uptown Hybrid Penny Loafer  |  Sorel Joan Now Chelsea Boots

What are the best shoes for Paris?

One unexpected issue that many travelers discover once they get to Europe are the cobblestone streets.

While great to look at, stone streets aren’t always the easiest to walk on and can make for sore feet even if you don’t normally have discomfort. Depending on the city, these streets can also be hilly, slippery when wet, and uneven.

White sneakers and sneakers in general are being seen everywhere, as are chunkier heeled boots and chunky loafers. Something with a more sturdy, thicker heel would be good for the cobblestones.

what-to-wear-in-pairs

  Veja Recife Logo Sneakers |  Vionic Copal Kirra Sandals

In addition, we all love to dress up, but avoid heels because they’ll leave you feeling uncomfortable. Opt for wedges if you must bring a heel. Do include one pair of shoes and one outfit that can be worn for dining out or experiencing the local nightlife.

As with your clothes, plan your shoes based on the weather and your planned activities. Choose no more than two to three pairs of shoe in neutral colors that can mix and match with all your clothing.

Make sure your sightseeing shoes are broken in properly. Opt for a pair that is comfortable and you can wear it for hours without discomfort.

Popular shoe options include (click each item below for suggested styles):

  • Ankle Boots for spring and autumn
  • Ballet Flats to dress up or for warm weather
  • Waterproof Boots for rain and snow
  • Comfortable Sightseeing shoes for year round visits
  • Cute Comfortable Summer Sandals
Read this post about the how to choose the best walking shoes for Europe .

Below you’ll find helpful seasonal clothing tips and suggested packing lists that you can use as a guideline to prepare for a trip to Paris:

what-to-wear-in-pairs

Longsleeve | Tee | Shirt | Cardigan | Pants |  Dress  | Trench Coat | Jeans | Bag | Scarf | Boots | Shoes

What to Wear in Paris in Spring (March, April, May)?

Spring in Paris is always unpredictable, so be prepared for anything and pack an item for all the elements. Always check the weather before you travel. What to wear in Paris in March may still reflect winter styles, as will what to wear in Paris  in April. Paris May weather is when it finally starts to warm up. 

If you’re wondering what to wear in Paris in May, bring a mixture of styles for warm and cool days.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for spring travel:

  • How to Pack for Trips with Mixed Weather
  • How to Layer a Summer Dress for Spring
  • How to Pack for Europe in Spring
  • Best Shoes for Traveling in Spring and Fall

what-to-wear-in-pairs

Shop Sizes XXS-3X: J.Crew Perfect Fit Longsleeve Crewneck T-Shirt

Tops for Spring

Readers say that the weather in spring can from the 50 to 70 °F, so the key is to layer, layer, layer! Because in the morning it can be a bit chilly, but turn warm in the afternoon, and also, the occasional rain shower is possible without notice, too.

Opt for l ong sleeve tops or t-shirts because they’re great to mix and match with your bottoms and they can be layered with a sweater or cardigan. A reader fave is the J. Crew long sleeve tee . It’s versatile to dress up or down, and ideal for layering!

what-to-wear-in-pairs

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Spanx Low Maintenance Silk Button Down

Since Paris is the city of classic tailoring, a functional white button shirt is chic, and also layer-able. This Spanx low maintenance silk shirt is made from Bombay and is able to be washed with no problem! 

what-to-wear-in-pairs

Shop Sizes XXXS-3X: J.Crew Cashmere Patch-Pocket Cardigan Sweater

Add a cardigan sweater or a pullover sweater to layer up your outfits and remove them and tuck them in your day bag if you get too hot during a day of sightseeing. 

Read these tips on how to pack for transitional weather .

what-to-wear-in-pairs

Shop Sizes 6-18: Kut from the Kloth Meg Fab Ab High Waist Ankle Wide Leg Jeans

Bottoms for Spring

Remember to choose your travel pants based on the sightseeing  you have planned. Overall, wide leg pants or jeans are seen on the streets of Paris, so choose a comfy pair that are breathable and durable. 

The KUT From the Kloth soft and stretchy and even has a bit of ab compression for sleek styling! Plus, they are super stylish.

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Shop Sizes 00-26: Athleta Brooklyn Mid Rise Ankle Pants

If you want something a bit slimmer and chicer, still remember to invest in pants that are functional.

The Athleta Brooklyn ankle pants are an elevated take on a classic jogger, with a more tailored fit and sleek fabric. But these pants are perfect for any traveler: they’re lightweight and breathable!

what-to-wear-in-pairs

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince Comfort Stretch Trench Coat

Jackets for Spring

While some days can be sunny and moderately warm, springtime in Paris still has rain showers. So, aim for a waterproof rain jacket or one that’s at least water resistant. In fact, the most popular type to wear in the city of romance is a trench coat .

Quince water resistant trench has classic styling with all the modern details, and can keep the rain away. Users say it’s super comfortable and the fabric stretches and doesn’t constrict, plus it looks so sleek! 

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Shop Sizes XS-XL: Orvis Pack-And-Go Jacket

If you want a jacket that isn’t a trench, a lightweight, packable rain jacket is perfect for Paris spring weather. 

TFG readers love this jacket by Orvis. You can tighten it at the waist for a more fitted look or you can wear it more cinched and still be able to add plenty of layers underneath. This is great for when temperatures start to dip a little lower than expected and the material will dry fast for the next thing you have on your agenda. Even if you take a rain jacket, still pack a travel umbrella , as it’ll keep you extra dry.

Find out why ankle boots are perfect for Europe in Spring!

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Shop Sizes 1X-4X: Caslon Tie Front Cotton Gauze Maxi Dress

Dresses for Spring

Maxi dresses are perfect to wear under a light jacket on warmer days. Opt for a dress in figure-flattering black. Parisians love neutral colors, especially wearing black, so try to produce a capsule wardrobe in black, to which you can add a touch of color with your accessories (your scarf, belts, or handbag.)

And if you want to feel a little more French, pack your prettiest undergarments into your wardrobe. It will leave you feeling glamorous!

Be prepared for anything with these stylish travel raincoats for women !

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Blondo Dakota Waterproof Bootie

What shoes should I wear in Paris in spring?

Since showers are possible, wearing waterproof shoes is recommended but don’t buy ones made of rubber; instead choose leather ankle boots , which are the best shoe option for travel to Europe in spring. 

The Blondo Dakota waterproof ankle boots repel rain (and even splash from puddles), have a lot of support, and look chic with long skirts or dresses .

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Sorel ONA 503 Everyday Low Shoes

Cute sneakers have been spotted on numerous women in Paris, so if you go for one, choose something chic but waterproof (in case of rain). The Sorel ONA waterproof sneakers are fashion forward, sleek looking, comfortable and will keep your feet dry while out and about.

Readers have also packed the Vessi waterproof sneakers and the On Cloud waterproof sneakers for spring in Paris, too!

While not recommended for all day sightseeing, ballet flats are also a good option should you want a dressier pair of shoes on your trip for warmer days or evenings. 

Paris Packing List for Spring

  • Two short sleeve tops
  • Two long sleeve tops
  • Two additional tops
  • One pair of blue jeans
  • One pair of black ponte pants
  • One additional bottom
  • One rain or winter jacket
  • One warm layer
  • Thermals (if very cold)
  • Three socks
  • Ten underwear
  • One versatile sleep set
  • Waterproof ankle boots (sightseeing)
  • Sneakers or Slip on sneakers (sightseeing)
  • Ballet flat (dressing up)
  • Wedges : (optional)

what-to-wear-in-pairs

Blouse |  Shirt | Tank | Jacket | Pants | Skirt | Shorts | Dress | Crossbody | Hat | Sandals | Sneaker

What to Wear in Paris in Summer (June, July, August)?

Paris in the summertime can get very hot, but the weather is unpredictable and it can turn chilly. What to wear in Paris in June will definitely differ from July and August. The hottest time of day is mid to late afternoon. Check the weather and bring a light jacket if you need to.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for summer travel:

  • Capsule Wardrobe for Summer
  • Top Summer Dresses Perfect for Europe
  • Lightweight Jackets for Easy Layers
  • Best Walking Shoes for Europe’s Cobblestone Streets

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Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince 100% European Linen Tank

Tops for Summer

While a nice black tee is great for June, when it does get a bit hotter in July and August, fabrics like linen, cotton, and rayon will keep you cooled off and are breathable as temperatures rise. Summers in Europe have become hotter and hotter! 

This Quince European linen tank is soft, airy, and versatile enough to go with anything!

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Shop Sizes XS-XL Loveappella Faux Wrap Top

To add a bit of Parisian style, choose more elevated, but breathable tops. This timeless Loveappella faux wrap top is light enough for day excursions and can be dressed up for evenings out.  You could also add merino wool t-shirts and tank tops as great basics.

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Shop Anthropologie: Sizes 23-34 (Regular, Tall, & Petite) | 16W-26W Plus

Bottoms for Summer

The best travel pants for Paris ought to be lightweight and durable enough to handle sightseeing and more elegant outings at night. Wide leg pants are on trend, and readers adore the Anthropologie Colette wide leg pants feel just as lovely as they look, made from a dreamy linen blend that’s both elegant and comfortable. The cropped, wide leg design is modern and flattering, too.

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Shop Sizes XXS-3X J.Crew Gwyneth Slip Skirt

Readers also highly suggest linen pants for Paris because they’re practical for the weather and effortlessly elevated. But also, add in maxi or mid skirts to your packing list. 

The J .Crew Gwyneth slip skirt is chic, but versatile enough to go with fashion sneakers or sandals .

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Sizes XXS-XL: Carve Designs Macy Dress

Dresses or Jumpsuits for Summer

Bring out your dresses–they will be airy and elegant  in Paris during this season! Cotton, rayon, and linen are the most comfortable in the heat. Add a belt for a feminine, polished fit. If you prefer maxi dresses or midi dresses , those all work and are a matter of style and preference.

Take, the Carve Macy dress ! It’s breathable at 100% rayon, very light, yet has a cute tie belt to add more polish. 

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Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince 100% European Linen Button Front Dress

One reader swears by the Quince washable silk maxi dress as something she wore constantly in Paris. And because it’s easy to clean, it will also make it a breeze to travel with! 

If you don’t want to wear silk or rayon, linen dresses is truly the best choice for the heat, which is why TFGs also recommend the Quince Linen Button Front dress is one of the most popular picks.

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Shop Sizes 0-16: Athleta Brooklyn Heights Wide Leg Jumpsuit

And, of course, don’t discount rompers or jumpsuits . They make instant outfits, and if you’re choosing the right fabrics, you won’t overheat. Stick to technical fabrics, cotton, or linen.

The newest fave is the Athleta Brooklyn wide leg jumpsuit , which can be dressed up with white sneakers or comfy walking sandals and is very breathable, moisture wicking, quick drying, and has UPF 50.  

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Shop Sizes XXXS-3X: J.Crew New Classic Denim Jacket

Jackets for Summer

To ensure you are prepared for unpredictable weather, don’t forget a light summer jacket or compact umbrella. Save museums for rainy days to make the most out of your trip.

A jean jacket is a timeless option that goes with everything and is the perfect weight for summer nights. The J. Crew classic denim jacket is high quality and tailored to perfection, with a stylishly relaxed fit.  

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Shop Sizes XXS-2X: Tommy Bahama Two Palms Linen Raw-Edge Jacket

Readers love linen blazers and linen jackets for their Parisian summer travels, as they offer coverage and a bit of warmth without feeling too hot. 

Tommy Bahama’s gorgeous linen jacket is super popular and features stylish raw edges, a comfy, lightweight feel, and a polished fit. 

Lastly, accessorize with sunglasses, a summer scarf, and jewelry–subtle yet stylish–to give you a touch of color. Choose minimalist jewelry (not too expensive or flashy) that reflects your own individuality and sense of style. Less is more.

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Aetrex Jess Orthopedic Adjustable Quarter Strap Sandals

What shoes should I wear in Paris in summer?

Pack a pair of comfortable summer sandals or canvas sneakers for all-day sightseeing and a pair of open-toe heeled wedges for a fancy night out. Note that locals don’t appreciate flip-flops being worn anywhere but seaside.

In summer, many events are outside as many venues have gardens and al fresco spaces with evening cocktail parties and happy hours. These are the best times to wear your favorite cocktail dress and enjoy the summer breeze.

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SOUL Naturalizer Turner Platform Slip On Fashion Sneaker

A Paris summer calls for slip on sneakers , because they’re a little less formal, but still polished enough to go with pocket dresses or long shorts . 

The SOUL Naturalizer Turner slip ons have custhioning, style, and a chic side zip that makes them easy to wear, plus they come in a variety of sizes, such as narrow, wide, and extra wide.

Ballet flats are also a good option should you want a dressier pair of shoes on your trip for warmer days or evenings.  

This is a selection of the best sandals for travel in summer – our top recommendation for a summer trip to Paris!

Paris Packing List for Summer

  • Three short sleeve and/or sleeveless tops
  • One ¾ sleeve top
  • One additional top
  • Two bottoms
  • One maxi dress
  • Two summer dresses
  • One light rain jacket
  • One light layer
  • Comfortable sandals (sightseeing)

what-to-wear-in-pairs

Tee  | Sweater 1 | Sweater 2 | Jacket |  Pants | Dress | Rain Jacket | Jeans | Scarf | Bag  | Loafer | Boot

What to Wear in Paris in Fall (September, October, November)?

In autumn, the weather is cool and Paris is beautiful. If you’re wondering what to wear in Paris in September, bring a few summer clothes for leftover summer weather. Autumn colors create a picturesque setting; however, as in spring, the seasons are unpredictable.

For what to wear in Paris in October, take advantage of grey skies and pack a vivid pink or red coat for a beautiful picture in front of the Eiffel Tower!

Start by reading these general tips on packing for autumn travel:

  • How to Layer Clothes
  • Use a Summer Dress to Pack Light in Fall

what-to-wear-in-pairs

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Wool& Morgan V-Neck Tee

Tops for Fall 

Thought the weather starts to cool down in the fall in Paris, there are warm moments in September when you can still wear a tee. The key is to layer with a cardigan or a sweater, especially at night when the temperature can drop. A good balance of warmth and breathability is this Wool& Morgan v-neck t-shirt . It won’t retain odors and it will add a bit more heat to your core, while also being moisture wicking.

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Shop Sizes XXS-XXXL: Everlane The Cashmere Classic Crew Sweater

You can pair your tees with a cute cashmere sweater , like this Classic Cashmere from Everlane. Put it over a tee, or wear it solo or just stow it in your backpack and take it out if the weather turns colder.  

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Shop Sizes XS-3X: Spanx The Perfect Pant in Wide Leg

Bottoms for Fall

Fall in Paris means shorter days are coming, so it’s best to be prepared by going for a longer length pant, which will look fabulous with ankle boots or chunky sneakers.

The Spanx Perfect wide leg pants are made of a stretch ponte fabric and are pull on, so super easy to wear on flights or when out. If you want a more casual look, the Spanx AirEssentials wide leg pants are equally popular, or if you want to go more glam the Spanx faux leather leggings always stand out but are uber comfy. 

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Shop Quince: Sizes  XS-XL | 1X-3X

Ponte pants are really great for fall in Paris because they can adapt to the weather and look polished or look fab dressed casually, too!

The Quince Ultra-Strech ponte straigh leg pants are recommended by readers as a perfect catch-all pair that can take you from a flight to the Louvre without fuss and you’ll arrive in a comfy style. Check out Quince’s whole category of ponte pants, as they have different types (flare to wide leg) to suit anyone’s personality.

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Shop Sizes XS-3X: Wool& Fiona Fit and Flare

Dresses for Fall

Can you wear dresses in the fall in Paris? Of course! Stick to something that you can layer. Long sleeve dresse s can cover the arms, but short sleeve is also great for when there are warm spots to a sightseeing day. The Wool& Fiona dress is made of merino wool and can handle both cold or warm weather changes, and it’s so versatile to wear with boots or sneakers!  

To cover your legs, tights or stockings are ideal to wear underneath dresses. They provide some protection from the elements and modesty in the Parisian streets.

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Shop Sizes S-XL: Fraiche by J Tie Waist Long Sleeve Jumpsuit

Pant jumpsuits are feminine and chic. Pair them with a travel blazer or a trench coat for an extra touch of sophistication. We love this Fraiche by J long sleeve jumpsuit for its versatility and soft texture. 

Pack one or two basic tees and long sleeve tops to create layers to mix and match your outfits. And finally, your scarves can add a pop of color to an otherwise neutral wardrobe.

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Shop Sizes XS-L: Blanknyc Faux Leather Moto Jacket

Jackets for Fall

Parisians love wearing leather, so use the autumn season to make faux leather your base. It’s not only waterproof, but warm, so you will have added protection from the chill. Consider adding a well-fitted, not boxy faux leather jacket to your wardrobe. 

The BlankNYC faux leather jacket pictured here would look fab with comfortable jeans or pants. And you could top off the look with trendy combat boots (but make sure those boots are comfortable).

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Shop Sizes XS-XL: Cole Haan Packable Hooded Rain Jacket

Once October hits, it can definitely rain in Paris then, so having a raincoat on hand is probably wise. This Cole Haan hooded packable rain jacket can be stored in your bag and brought out if it starts to drizzle. It literally packs into a pocket!

If you think you can’t pack light with leather clothing, check out my post on How to Pack for Europe’s Budget Airlines , where I squeezed in my leather and still flew carryon only!

what-to-wear-in-pairs

Naturalizer Rena Knee High Riding Boot

What shoes should I wear in Paris in fall?

Readers on the ground report that long boots are alive and well in Paris. Knee high boots can add elegance to a dress or slim pants. 

The Naturalizer Rena tall boot is ideal for anyone who needs extra room in the calf area—with a 13” opening. It has a solid outsole for walking, good cushioning, and a breathable lining, so your feet and legs don’t feel stuffy. Always break in a pair of shoes before traveling, as walking on cobblestones can be hard on the feet. 

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Sorel Joan of Arctic Wedge III Zip Boot

Waterproof ankle boots  are another fall must for Paris, so look for ones that have good cushioning, a sturdy heel, and won’t slip on surfaces. 

The very stylish S orel Arctic wedge boots have amazing traction and will stay dry if it pours. If you want something edgier, the Sorel Hi-line combat boots are a TFG fave and would look chic with a faux leather jacket.

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Rothy’s The Loafer

Fall is a good time for comfortable loafers , and the Loafer from Rothy’s is the ultimate travel friendly loafer to add polish to your look while keeping your feet happy as you explore Paris. 

Readers can’t get enough of this shoe, lauding its lightweight and flexible fit, durability, and overall amazing comfort.

Paris Packing List for Fall

  • Waterproof leather boots or long leather boots (sightseeing)
  • Canvas or leather sneakers (sightseeing)
  • Ballet flat  or loafers (dressing up)

what-to-wear-in-pairs

Turtleneck  | Sweater 1 | Sweater 2 | Thermal Top | Coat | Jeans | Down Jacket | Thermal Pants | Gloves  |  Beanie |  Sneakers | Bootie

What to Wear in Paris in Winter (December, January, February)?

You can expect cold and wet weather during the winter, with occasional days of sun. The weather will definitely impact your choices for what to wear when traveling to Paris.  Layering is essential for colder climates, so pack long sleeve tops, a few sweaters, and even a t-shirt or two to wear underneath your heavy fitted jacket or warm coat.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for winter travel:

  • Capsule Wardrobe for Winter
  • How to Pack for Cold Weather
  • How to Stay Warm in Cold Weather (without the bulk)
  • The Best Travel Shoes for Winter

what-to-wear-in-pairs

Shop Sizes XXS-XXL: Uniqlo Extra Fine Merino Ribbed Turtleneck Long-Sleeve Sweater

Tops for Winter 

It can snow in Paris between January and March, so don’t be unprepared! Turtleneck sweaters or tunics make the ideal warm accompaniment to your winter capsule. 

TFGs highly recommend the Uniqlo extra fine merino wool turtleneck for its economic cost, softness, and warmth. You can wear a packable down jacket over it and wear chic waterproof moto boots to top off your look. 

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Shop Sizes XXS-3X: Nadaam Lightweight Cashmere V-Neck Sweater

Merino wool sweaters , cashmere sweaters , and alpaca sweaters are big favorites amongst readers to tackle the chilly winters of Paris.

A reader recommendation for Europe is the Naadam cashmere v-neck . It has a relaxed yet classic look, is uber warm, and will go with literally anything!

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Shop Sizes 0-18: prAna Kara Jean

Bottoms for Winter

For winter in Paris, comfortable jeans are perfect, and when tucked into your boots to create the perfect winter look. The PrAna Kara jeans are soft and breathable and move with the body, so you never feel constricted. You could also opt for winter pants that have a more casual look.

what-to-wear-in-pairs

Shop Sizes 00-16: J.Crew No. 2 Pencil Skirt in Italian Stretch Wool

Just because you’re visiting Paris in winter doesn’t mean you shouldn’t wear a skirt! A winter skirt is an elegant option that can work day or night, as long as it’s made of a warm material. 

You can’t go wrong with the J.Crew No. 2 Pencil Skirt , which is made of wool. A pencil is classically stylish and will look divine with brown long boots or mid length boots . Just remember to wear tights to stay extra warm. 

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Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince Mongolian Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater Dress

Dresses for Winter

In terms of winter dresses , choose something made of cashmere, polyester, merino wool, or alpaca.

The Quince Mongolian cashmere dress comes in numerous colors and will look fab with fleece lined leggings or merino wool leggings , and, of course, boots!

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ibex Woolies Tech Long Sleeve Shirt | ibex Woolies Tech Layer Bottoms

Thermals for Winter

To make sure you stay warm, it’s wise to bring some thermal underwear . The Woolies Tech Long Sleeve Shirt not only works as an excellent base layer under midweights but it can be worn solo as a shirt. While the Woolies Tech Layer Bottoms are described as lightweight and work well under trousers or a dress, so not as heavy as typical tights.   

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Terramar Silk Thermasilk Pointelle Scoop Shirt and Pointelle Pants

If you want more lightweight options, try silk thermal underwear . The ones from Terramar are made with 100% silk pointelle knit. Their anti-microbial comfort technology is a plus when you want to re-wear your clothing. The fabric offers optimal warmth but is ultra lightweight. Stay warm without the bulk!

what-to-wear-in-pairs

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Steve Madden Women’s Long Chevron Maxi Puffer Coat

Jackets for Winter

While having a down parka is recommended for Paris’ winter months, you may want a non-down option . 

This Steve Madden Chevron long puffer coat is dripping with style, and users say its fleece lining and wind-resistant exterior make this beauty extra cozy. 

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Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Eddie Bauer Microlight Traveler Down Parka

A down-filled option is considered easier to pack (if you’re not wearing your jacket on the flight), so if that’s what you’d prefer fo Paris, this Eddie Bauer Microlight Traveler parka fits the bill! It has 650 fill Responsible Down Standard (RDS), and is uber packable 

Don’t forget to add accessories. They not only add style to your outfit, but warmth! Opt for long, cashmere or silk scarves in the colors of your choice as well as a stylish hat and fingerless gloves. A pair of black leather gloves can look chic as well.

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Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince Italian Wool Classic Single-Breasted Coat

A lot of readers say wool coats are seen frequently in Paris during the winter and while that may seem impractical, wool is fairly sturdy, and unlike other fabrics, wool doesn’t absorb water, so they are more water-resistant.

This pretty Quince Italian classic  wool jacket has a convertible zip up collar to turn into a cowl and act as a scarf. Its asymmetrical line is modern, and so beautifully chic for the romantic setting of the city.  

what-to-wear-in-pairs

Cougar Villa Lug Platform Bootie

What shoes should I wear in Paris in winter?

If it snows during your trip, opt for a pair of warm winter boots . If it will be cold and rainy without snow, so opt for cute and versatile waterproof leather boots instead.

These Cougar Villa boots has a cheeky lug sole heel, so they’re a great combination of high fashion and practicality—a super elegant choice!  Wearers gush about the cushioned insole, slip resistant, and cold protection from the fleece lining that’ll keep your feet super happy in the cold!

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ECCO Soft 7 Chelsea Sneakers

Leather sneakers are also an option for mild days. (Tip: wear skin colored stockings underneath for discreet warmth around your ankles.). High top sneakers have been sighted on the cobblestone streets. 

The ECCO Chelsea high tops are made of smooth nappa leather, with light cushioning, and can be worn with pants or dresses. Use some waterproofing spray to treat them for the weather, and still wear some lightweight merino wool socks .

Paris Packing List for Winter

  • Three long sleeve sweaters
  • One long sleeve dress
  • One winter jacket
  • Three winter socks
  • Waterproof tall or ankle leather boots (sightseeing)
  • Leather sneakers (sightseeing)
  • Ballet flat or heeled ankle boot (dressing up)
  • Closed toe wedges : (optional)

what-to-wear-in-pairs

Away The Carry-On 21″ Suitcase

What is the Best Luggage for Paris?

So the hard part’s out of the way; after much turmoil you’ve finally perfected your packing list for Paris and created a chic capsule collection – now it’s time to get packing! Which luggage will work best for you?

There are various things to consider when choosing the best luggage for Europe including a difference in carry on size, strict weight restrictions, mobility on the cobblestone streets, and long flights of stairs. 

The Away the Carry On 21” fits in overhead compartments and is a clamshell design so you can pack on both sides! It’s durable, pretty, and so functional that readers truly adore it! 

what-to-wear-in-pairs

Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable 20″ Carry on Luggage

The best suitcase to have when traveling Paris is a rigid trolley case, ideally with four castors. The trolley should be divided into two compartments (not just one big compartment) for easy packing. These are easy to travel with on bumpy terrain.

If you want a softside option, the ultimate reader favorite brand is Travelpro . Their Platinum Elite soft luggage 20” has spinner wheels, organizational pockets on the front, has a USB port, can even hold a laptop, and is expandable.  

Read these tips on how to pick a suitcase and consider one of these top brands . Make your life easy by choosing from the most recommended carry on suitcases for Europe .

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WANDF 18″ Foldable Travel Duffle Bag

For a European carry on size bag, a backpack is always a good option for those of us who prefer to travel hands-free. Learn how to choose the best travel backpack .

A travel tip for souvenir shopping is to bring a   packable duffle bag to store all your goodies. Readers swear by the Wandf packable duffle and say it’s so easy to transport and is useful for other things like hauling laundry, not just gifts or souvenirs. 

what-to-wear-in-pairs

Compass Rose Compression Packing Cubes

Depending on how many days or weeks you’re traveling, you may want to use luggage organizers such as packing cubes , which allow optimum use of the space in your luggage, keeping everything organized and in place during your travels, and making the task of unpacking and repacking simple and stress-free. Check out this video  on how to organize using packing cubes, it’s incredibly easy! 

Keep in mind that most of Europe’s budget airlines have a carry-on bag allowance of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. Always check your airlines’ individual baggage rules and regulations in advance.

If you want more resources on what type of suitcase to choose for Paris, start here:

  • Best lightweight luggage under 5 lbs
  • Best Hardside Luggage 
  • Best Softside Luggage 
  • Find the Best Carry On Suitcase to Suit Your Trip 
  • Best International Carry On Luggage 
  • Best Expandable Luggage That’s Lightweight
  • Backpack Vs Suitcase: Which is Right for My Trip to Europe?

what-to-wear-in-pairs

Sherpani Soleil Convertible Travel Backpack

What is the Best Personal Item for Paris?

Among your summer essentials for Paris is a cut e day bag that’s comfortable to carry for hours on end and will securely hold your essentials. A lot of readers highly recommend an anti-theft travel purse or a cross body purse , as pickpocketing can be an issue in Paris, especially in crowded areas. 

If you like to keep things light and compact, opt for a small crossbody purse like the Sherpani Soleil convertible backpack . Readers adore Sherpani’s anti-theft purses , and this cute little option is durable yet stylish and affordable, too! 

Slightly larger but still light and compact, Travelon’s Classic Messenger bag is a consistent TFG favorite. It’s neutral in design, so it’ll look great with all of your outfits, and its excellent organization and top-notch security features make it a stellar travel companion. 

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Lo & Sons Pearl Crossbody

Another TFG fave is the Lo & Sons Pearl crossbody . It’s made of gorgeous, high-quality leather and boasts great organization and a chic look. Readers say it feels super secure to carry, too. You can’t go wrong with a chic leather purse in Paris! 

If you need some extra space for the day’s essentials or you plan on doing some shopping, opt for an anti-theft backpack to store all you need while deterring any risk of theft. 

what-to-wear-in-pairs

BAGSMART Toiletry Bag Travel Bag with Hanging Hook

When traveling to Paris, you’ll need some of the standard, essential toiletries, including:

  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Moisturizer (face and body)
  • Makeup (we recommend keeping it simple: mascara, concealer, and a lip tint that doubles as a blush)
  • Hair ties and bobby pins
  • Dry shampoo

Worried that all your toiletries, makeup, skincare, and hair styling tools won’t fit into your suitcase? Read these tips on how to travel size toiletries to learn how to make the most of limited space without sacrificing your routine!

We recommend you take the most important products in travel containers like these and try to either buy basics like shampoo and shower gel in Europe or use the items provided by hotels.

what-to-wear-in-pairs

Dual Voltage Plavogue Styling Brush

Also, consider your makeup–in many European cities, women opt for natural makeup focusing on a well groomed but not over-the-top appearance.

While a daily salon blow out isn’t necessary, be mindful of your hair and makeup. Find out if it’s necessary to bring a travel blow dryer here or a another popular choices is a blow dryer brush .

When choosing your styling tools, choose items that have dual voltage and bring along a travel adapter for all your electronics. Just make sure to add all these items to your backpacking packing list for Europe so you don’t forget them.

Check out our guide to toiletries for more tips!

What Should I NOT Pack for Paris?

While great to look at, stone streets aren’t always the easiest to walk on and can make for sore feet even if you don’t normally have discomfort. Depending on the city, these streets can also be hilly, slippery when wet, and uneven. So, it’s not recommended to pack heels. If you want some more dressy shoes, readers advise bringing wedges . 

Are Jeans Appropriate to Wear in Paris?

While Europeans tend to dress up more than Americans, you still can wear jeans in Paris. However, avoid acid wash and extremely distressed denim and opt for medium-dark blues and blacks. 

Our readers voted for the best skinny jeans for travel!

Are Leggings Okay to Wear in Paris?

Some travelers love wearing leggings for comfort, but they’re often too casual looking as pants for Paris. If you’re a big fan of leggings, consider pairing a black pair with long tunics during the spring, or wearing them under Paris style dresses and skirts in fall and winter.

Our readers voted for the best leggings for women that travel!

Paris Travel Tips

Before you head on your tour of Paris , check out these frequently asked questions on traveling to Paris.

What’s the best time of year to visit Paris?

While summer offers perfect temperatures, it’s also the busiest time of year for visiting Paris. For this very reason, many experts say fall is the best season to visit Paris because the temperatures are still comfortable but there are fewer tourists.

Weather in Paris

In summer, you can expect sunny days in the 70s and 80s, with temperatures dropping a little into fall. While it doesn’t snow in winter, it gets very cold, and December is the rainiest month.

Never travel without checking the weather forecast as this will be your ultimate packing guide for Paris. Remember that each city will have its own weather pattern so check the forecast for all the destinations you plan to visit.

Use websites such as Accuweather or Holiday Weather for advanced forecasts and don’t forget to check the weather one week and three days before your trip as mother nature doesn’t run on a tight schedule.

What are the best accommodations in Paris?

We love Airbnb for accommodation in Paris. Sign up here for a free $40 credit!

I prefer to book “the entire home” instead of opting for shared accommodation on Airbnb. Aside from safety, I also like to feel like I’m living in the destination. It’s a small taste of local life plus you get more amenities than you would at a hotel such as a kitchen and washing machine.

Read these Airbnb tips for more info!

If you prefer the convenience and comfort of a hotel room, I like using both Agoda.com and Hotels.com . Tip: Hotels.com gives you a free night for every ten nights you book!

For hostels, we recommend Hostelworld and Hostelbookers . Always read the reviews before booking to get the best idea if the hostel is right for you. Some are quiet and family friendly while others are known for their party atmosphere.

Not sure about staying at a hostel? Read this.

What’s the Best Way to Get to Paris?

For flights, I like booking through Travelocity or Cheapoair (whichever one’s cheapest). Although I prefer Travelocity because they have a 24 hour money back guarantee.

To maximize your vacation time, fly into the city where you’re starting your trip and out of the city where your trip ends. Many times it’s the same price and saves you from having to spend extra time and money to go back to where you started your trip.

How to Get Around Paris

Paris has a fantastic metro that makes it easy to get around the city and travel throughout the arrondissements. It’s affordable, reliable, and quick.

There is also a bus and train system to get you to and from the airport, as well as to other cities if you expand your travels outside of Paris.

Paris is a very walkable city, and walking allows you to see all the beautiful and old architecture as you explore the city.

Things to Do in Paris

Paris is one of the most amazing cities to visit because there are so many beautiful sites to take in. Follow our recommendations before you travel to Paris .

What are the best sites in Paris to see?

  • Eiffel Tower
  • Arc de Triomphe
  • Luxembourg Gardens
  • Musée d’Orsay
  • Centre Pompidou
  • Champs-Élysées

What are the best tours in Paris?

Some travelers prefer the guidance of professionals for planning their trip. If you’re a fan of tours, check out these top tours for Paris.

  • Rick Steves’ Tours
  • Secret Food Tours
  • Local Paris Tours
  • Wine Day Tours

Where’s the best shopping in Paris?

Paris is synonymous with fashion. It’s a city filled with luxurious designer fashion houses, but if you are looking for more budget-friendly shops, try these: Monoprix, Tati, and City Pharma, where you can get all your basic travel essentials.

For more tips, read this post on shopping in Paris !

what-to-wear-in-pairs

Compass Rose Secret Bra Wallet

Safety is a big concern whenever you travel, and in busy, touristy areas like Paris, pickpocketing can be a common occurrence. Taking a few safety precautions can help you feel less stressed during your travels.

How can I stay safe while traveling in Paris?

Be cautious about where you stash your cash so you don’t fall prey to muggings and pickpocketing. Make your clothing theft-proof and choose items with strong zippers. Jeans are handy for this reason: you can put important items, like your wallet and phone, in your front pockets, where it’s very difficult for a wandering hand to snatch it. Add items like the Secret Bra Pocket and Underwear with Pockets to your packing list. You could also buy clothing with hidden pockets to hide valuables even deeper! 

And be mindful of purse snatchers! They either slash the bottom of your bag so the content fall out or slash the strap. Wear your purse strap across your body and the zipper towards the front. For extra security, check out the “theft-proof” bags featured in this post about crossbody purses .

These are articles with other suggested anti-theft products:

  • Money Belts and Anti-theft Accessories
  • Best Anti-theft Bags for Women
  • 6 Tools to Protect Your From Pickpockets in Europe

Remember, the safest place for your passport is locked in your accommodation. Carry a photocopy or other ID when you’re sightseeing or are out at night.

Read these tips on how to keep your passport safe when you travel!

Suggested Anti-Theft Accessories for Paris

  • Bra stash ,  neck pouch , or  money belt  with RFID protection
  • Anti-theft crossbody bag
  • Passport case
  • TSA-approved luggage lock
  • Clothing with hidden pockets (like  underwear ,  tops , and  scarves )

Key Takeaways:

  • In general, day-to-day European style is more dressy than American style, but this does not mean business clothing. A nice blouse and well designed denim is a timeless uniform that can work in Paris just as well as any other part of Europe.
  • Ultimately, choose comfortable, classic clothing that will transcend trends so you can look back at the pictures from your trip with fond memories.
  • With shoes, always choose comfort over fashion as you’ll spend long hours on your feet – don’t forget to break them in!
  • Elevators are not prevalent in local accommodation; be prepared to lift your own luggage up many flights of stairs and steep cobblestone hills.
  • Avoid oversized, heavy luggage if you plan to use trains, buses, or budget flights as storage space is limited. You should be able to maneuver through train stations (and trains) with ease.
  • Pickpockets are prevalent in all tourist cities, be aware of your surroundings and be practical about your belongings.
  • ALWAYS check the weather before you travel.

For more ideas on what to wear in Paris, please read this  10 Step Paris Packing Guide !

What’s in your packing list for Paris? Share in the comment section below!

Please note: Most of Europe’s budget airlines have this carryon bag allowance: 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. Always check your airline’s individual baggage rules and regulations in advance.

For more tips, please read these Europe packing lists:

Suggested travel resources:

  • Lonely Planet Europe on a Shoestring
  • Lonely Planet Paris (Travel Guide)
  • Travel Shoes for Europe
  • The Best Carry-on Suitcases for Europe
Please read our Ultimate  Packing List for Europe  featuring stylish outfits and travel tips for 9 countries.

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We hope this packing list helps you plan what to wear in Paris. Don’t forget to share the love on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Angie Haering

Loved this article!!

alex

Great article.. Will keep in mind all your tips for my visit to Paris this May

Thanks! Hope it helps 🙂

sophie

What is appropriate dress code for a 70 year old woman who is a little ‘hip’?

Thanks Sophie

Hi Sophie, thanks for your question! I will post it on our Facebook page to get the best feedback for you 🙂

Sue

What a well thought out blog, alas I have been to paris many times, but being 50 and a little chunky, still find it very difficult to pack, all the clothing you have recommended are lovely but a bit young for me, still I can admire the young uns wearing them! Thanks.

Thank you Sue!

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The Ultimate Paris Packing List

Everything you’ll need for The City of Light.

Amy Louise Bailey is a freelance content creator and media specialist. Her work has been published in Vogue , Harper’s Bazaar , Elle , Condé Nast Traveler, Bloomberg Pursuits , and Robb Report .

In This Article

Packing Checklist for Paris

  • T+L's Top Picks and Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

Paris conjures many images. There’s the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre Dame to name a few of its iconic landmarks. The city sparkles with world-class museums, restaurants, hotels, and elegant Belle Epoque architecture. Romantics around the world have long been enamored by its charm, and it’s inspired some of the most culturally significant artists in history. 

It’s also the reigning capital of fashion, producing revered designers, including Coco Chanel, who famously said that “beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself.” That spirit of authenticity is evident on the streets, in the effortless je ne sais quoi that Parisians possess. You won’t find many women running around in neon stilettos at 9 a.m. carrying baguettes and peonies, Emily in Paris -style. Style in the French capital is more pared down and uniform, which is something to keep in mind when packing for a trip.

“To avoid looking like a tourist in Paris, the key is to dress like the French do in a classic, chic, and timeless style,” says Simudzai Kufandada, Chief Concierge for the legendary Ritz Paris. Think of a well-tailored capsule wardrobe in a neutral color palette – nothing too loud or overdone. But whatever you do, leave the athleisure behind – unlike other cities, it would look out of place here. “We still dress to go out,” explains Laure Pertusier, General Manager of the Saint James Club – a magnet for sophisticated local denizens.

Evening looks are necessary – the opera! The ballet! 118 Michelin-star restaurants to choose from! And, of course, you’ll need versatile outfits for exploring the city comfortably (think more stretch denim, less lycra). Another thing to note is that some hotel rooms and AirBnBs can be compact (not quite to Tokyo standards, but still on the smaller side), so it’s best to keep your suitcase size to a minimum. As for the etiquette? Cheval Blanc’s Assistant Front of House Director, Margaux Médeau, advises to “smile, walk fast, have fun, be chic, and dare . You’ll be Parisian.”

Ahead, see our curated recommendations on what to pack for your trip to The City of Light. 

Daywear for Women

  • Best Jeans: L’AGENCE Margot jean at L’AGENCE
  • Best Day Dress: Staud Mini Wells Dress in White at Staud
  • Best Shirt: Uniqlo x Ines de la Fressange Sheer Cotton Relaxed Long Sleeve Shirt at Uniqlo
  • Best Tee: The Modern Breton Tee at Everlane  
  • Best Trench Coat: Zara Flowy Trench Coat at Zara
  • Best Cardigan: Ribbed Wool and Cashmere Button Cardigan in Light Lagoon at Vince

Daywear for Men

  • Best Pants: Slim Traveler Pant at Banana Republic  
  • Best Tee: Arket Niko Cotton Jersey T-Shirt in White at Mr Porter
  • Best Shirt: Linen Cotton Dress Shirt at Banana Republic 
  • Best Sweater: Cashmere Crewneck Sweater at J.Crew
  • Best Jacket: Organic Cotton Herringbone Utility Jacket at Everlane

Eveningwear for Women

  • Best Dress: Significant Other Aida Midi Halter Dress at Moda Operandi
  • Best Evening Jacket: Angelina Tweed Blazer (in black) at L’AGENCE
  • Best Top: Fitted Mulberry Tube Top at & Other Stories
  • Best Pants: Wanda Coated Jean in Noir at L’AGENCE
  • Best Sleepwear: Silk Slip with Lace Detail at Intimissimi

Eveningwear for Men

  • Best Shirt: Linen Long Sleeve Shirt in Optic White at Vince
  • Best Pants: Bowery Slim-fit Dress Pant in Stretch Chino at J.Crew
  • Best Blazer: Linen Cotton Canvas Blazer at Onia
  • Best Sleepwear: Hanes Woven Plain Weave Pajama Set in Blue Solid at Amazon
  • Best Versatile Women’s Day Shoes: Scarosso Sienna Black Bright Loafers at Scarosso
  • Best Women’s Heels for Evening: The Mia Due 90mm at M.Gemi 
  • Best Sneakers for Men and Women: The Forever Sneaker at Everlane
  • Best Men’s Versatile Loafers: Scarosso Ludovico Moro Loafers at Scarosso
  • Best Men’s Evening Shoes: The Filare at M. Gemi

Accessories

  • Best Women’s Sunglasses: Toteme The Classics Square Frame Acetate Sunglasses at Toteme
  • Best Men’s Sunglasses: Garrett Leight Kinney Sun in Butterscotch at Garrett Leight
  • Best Men’s Belt: BOSS Italian Leather Belt with Branded Pin Buckle at Hugo Boss
  • Best Women’s Belt: Classic Belt in Patent Leather at J.Crew
  • Best Women’s Bag: JW Pei Debby Flap Crossbody at Amazon
  • Best Jewelry: Move Uno Pink Gold Diamond Ring at Messika Paris
  • Best Water Bottle: LARQ Bottle PureVis at Williams Sonoma
  • Best Duffel: Deluxe Large Weekender at LeSportsac
  • Best Checked Suitcase: The Medium Flex at Away
  • Best Carry-on Suitcase: Tumi International Expandable 4-Wheeled Carry-On at Amazon

T+L's Top Picks and Tips

Best clothing.

One of the biggest dressing myths is perhaps the most obvious: “A true Parisian woman very rarely wears a beret,” explains Bastien Lalanne, Chief Concierge at the Bulgari Hotel (and, as you might imagine, witness to crowds of well-heeled locals). 

French style has an insouciant sophistication – classic and polished with an emphasis on tailoring. Despite being the epicenter of haute couture, nothing is too colorful or exaggerated. “Parisian fashion and culture exudes an effortlessly chic, laid back attitude,” says Moda Operandi’s Senior Ready-to-Wear Buyer, Tiernan Cowling. 

Laid back, yes, but as noted, athleisure is off limits (or code for “American tourist”). “We wear fewer sports outfits and caps on the street when we go out than in other cities,” explains Laure Pertusier. “We favor natural elegance and don’t go overboard with color or make-up.”

So, what does a typical outfit look like? “For a day of sightseeing in the city, I opt for a slouchy tailored pant, paired with an oversized vintage motorcycle jacket and white tee,” says Tiernan Cowling. For both men and women, it’s all about investing in high-quality classics that transcend fleeting trends.

Best Daywear for Women

L’agence high-rise skinny jeans.

Bloomingdale's

Jeans are a staple in the wardrobe of every French woman, and generally, there are no rips, no frays, or no embellishments, just classic cuts that fit well, often styled with a black leather belt. Shopping for jeans can be a minefield, but L’Agence is always a reliable go-to, and these Margot jeans are perfect for travel, as they are made from a super stretch denim that holds its shape. The flattering style has a slight crop, a contoured waistband, and is available in 13 different colors. If you’re embarking on a day of sightseeing – say, hiking up Sacré-Coeur or wandering the grounds of Versailles - these will make the journey a lot more comfortable than regular rigid denim.

Best Day Dress

Staud mini wells dress.

Your days are bound to be varied – you may begin at Café de Flore, and then on to Musée de l'Orangerie before landing at a photogenic rooftop bar for an aperitif. With that in mind, you’ll need something that can adapt to a dynamic itinerary, like this feminine white dress from Staud. It fits firmly within the realm of timeless French style with an elegant square neck, a scoop back, and an A-line silhouette that hits above the knee. Although it has corset-style paneling through the midsection, the fabric is breathable and has some stretch. It’s also available in a midi-length and nine different shades, including a whimsical white with macaron-colored stripes .

Ines de la Fressange Sheer Cotton Relaxed Long Sleeve Shirt

Designed by a French model and muse, this classic shirt is a great piece to have in your arsenal. It has a relaxed cut, a sheer fabric, and a rounded hem with side splits. Cuff up the sleeves and wear it half undone with a fitted bodice or lace-trimmed camisole underneath. It will cost you less than a round of Kir Royales and is sure to be on high rotation this summer and beyond (and if you’re Riviera bound after Paris, it will double as a swimsuit coverup).

Everlane Breton Tee

You can always count on Everlane for timeless basics, like this long-sleeved marinière top. Unlike berets, French girls actually wear tees like this on a daily basis, tucked into jeans, perhaps with a pair of loafers and tousled hair, a la Lou Doillon. We love how the stripes aren’t too exaggerated – it’s a classic dark navy with thin contrasting lines. And the cut is flattering on most figures with a dropped shoulder, relaxed fit, and a high boat neck, perfect for accessorizing with a simple gold chain necklace (something like this Como necklace from Soru would be perfect).

Best Trench

Zara flowy trench.

This razor-thin trench coat from Zara could pull any ensemble together, either worn open like a flowy duster or done up with the tie belt defining the waist. It’s made from a silky and breathable lyocell fabric that is wrinkle resistant, so it won’t look too disheveled after your journey across the Atlantic. The hem hits at the mid-calf and it has convenient pockets at the hip, plus a wide lapel collar. It’s available in three neutral colors: beige, khaki, and black.

Best Cardigan

Vince ribbed wool and cashmere button cardigan.

A fitted cashmere cardigan is just as French as Breton stripes, and this luxurious style from Vince is one of the most elegant and high-quality options on the market. The tailoring is refined, and the soft pastel blue shade looks even more striking in real life. It could be worn open with a fitted white tank or buttoned up over a nude-colored cami . Pack it for a day of exploring and if it gets too warm, it looks just as chic draped over the shoulders with the arms tied around the neck like a scarf.

Best Daywear for Men

Banana republic slim traveler pants.

Banana Republic

As the name suggests, these pants were designed with travel in mind, made from a specially engineered Italian cotton that has enough stretch to move around in. They’re also breathable and are available in regular and tall sizing options and six different colors, ranging from jet black to khaki beige – all within the standard neutral colorscape of des Garcons .

Best Sweater

J.crew cotton piqué-stitch crewneck sweater.

J.Crew makes some of the best cashmere sweaters around, but they won’t break the bank. 

This classic crewneck is a solid staple you could pair with jeans and sneakers for a day of sightseeing. It has a slightly slim fit, a crewneck, and ribbed detailing at the cuffs and hemline. It’s available in XS to 2X and a range of bright colors, but we recommend the heather gray, charcoal, or one of the more neutral shades (for Paris, and anywhere).

Banana Republic Linen Cotton Dress Shirt

Every man could do with a sophisticated blue and white striped shirt in their wardrobe, and this linen iteration would be perfect for Paris in the spring. It doesn’t have any distracting pockets and is versatile enough to be dressed up or down, depending on what your itinerary involves. Cuff up the sleeves, add a bold silver watch, and pair them with some chinos and loafers and you’ll have a versatile look on hand.

Best T-shirt

Arket cotton jersey t-shirt.

This is the simplest of plain white tees – there’s no chest pocket or any unnecessary features, it’s a true classic that is ideal for layering under utility jackets and blazers. It’s made from a lightweight cotton jersey, using an open-ended yarn that provides a soft, yet structured feel. And at this price, you can’t go wrong.

Best Jacket

Everlane organic cotton herringbone utility jacket.

Everlane has just launched a capsule collection titled “Modern Utility” and it’s full of essentials that work perfectly for a trip to Paris. One piece that caught our eye is this boxy utility jacket with front patch pockets, cuffed sleeves, and a button front closure. It looks like a shirt blended with a blazer, which is perfect for smart-casual outings. This is an easy piece to pair with a white tee underneath, chinos, and classic sneakers.

Best Eveningwear for Women

Best evening dress, significant other midi halter dress.

Moda Operandi

This is a prime example of how real French women dress up: sexy but always sophisticated, stylish but never succumbing to fleeting trends. This classic midi-length dress has an elegant, twisted halter neck, a low V back, and a slinky silhouette that doesn’t cling (that said, adding shapewear underneath is advised – this Spanx bodysuit would do the trick). It’s made from a lightweight viscose blend and has an invisible zip fastening at the back. Can’t you just see Emily in Paris ’ Sylvie Grateau wearing it to a gala at the Palais Garnier, styled with sculptural earrings from Dinh Van? C’est chic .

Best Evening Jacket

L’agence tweed blazer.

Saks Fifth Avenue

This shimmering tweed blazer is an after-dark showstopper. The style is quintessentially Parisian, with a structured, ladylike silhouette, delicately textured tweed, and uniformed gold buttons lining the cuffs. In other words, it could pass for Chanel and is something that would live in your wardrobe forever. It has an open front with a fringe finish and is slim fitting through the arms, so if you’re planning on layering, size up. It’s the sort of item you don’t want to take off when you get inside – a hero piece to build an outfit around.

& Other Stories Silk Tube Top

& Other Stories

Tube tops can be tricky to pull off, but this silk version from & Other Stories is the most elegant version we’ve seen in a long time. Made from a glossy silk, it has a flared A-line cut and a corset-style tie back that allows the fit to be adjusted. It’s strapless, so it’s a great piece to wear under a structured blazer or a form-fitting jacket; it could either be a layering piece or a stand-alone statement, depending on the look. Plus, if you opt to wear it while it’s still sunny outside, you won’t have any tan lines to worry about.

L’AGENCE Coated Jean

Forget leather pants, these glossy coated jeans are the way to go for travel (and any occasion, really). They have a subtle sheen that contrasts beautifully with cashmere and silk fabrics, and they fit like a glove, with enough stretch to move around in no matter where the night takes you. The shape is cropped with a slight flare, and they have a flattering contoured waistband that has a sculpting and lifting effect. Pair with a tailored blazer and heels and you’ll have yourself a look.

Best Sleepwear

Intimissi silk slip.

What could make a plush hotel bed even more luxurious? Equally plush sleepwear, like this silky slip from Italian intimates brand, Intimissimi. This is a piece you'd want to be photographed in while gazing out the window with coffee and a croissant in the morning (ideally with a view of the Eiffel Tower ). It’s made from 100 percent Italian silk and has adjustable straps and a fine lace trim along the neckline and the hem. It’s available in multiple colorways, but the icy French blue is our favorite (and the most fitting for Paris).

Best Eveningwear for Men

Vince linen long sleeve shirt.

Vince has a variety of high-quality, timeless staples for les hommes, but it’s their shirts that are renowned as some of the best on the market. And when you’re planning a night out in Paris, a refined, well-tailored shirt is exactly what you’ll need. This classic silhouette is free of any unnecessary details, with an elegant slim cut and a slight sheen. It’s made from a cooling linen fabric and is smart enough to wear on its own, paired with chinos and a leather belt on a hot summer night, or worn under a blazer for a more formal setting.

J.Crew Slim-fit Dress Pant

These lightweight dress chinos are a customer favorite for good reason. They have the structure of tailored suit trousers with enough stretch to move around in comfortably – ideal if you’re wearing them for packed days where you won’t have time to change before dinner. Another useful feature is the button flap waist that looks polished even without a belt – something to consider if suitcase space is limited.

Best Blazer

Onia linen cotton canvas blazer.

A navy blazer in Paris is about as standard as florals for spring, and this linen version hits all the right notes. It has an unstructured fit with notched lapels, shoulder pads, and contrasting mother of pearl buttons. The style isn’t overly formal, but it would be appropriate for any evening destination (besides establishments that require a black tie dress code): think charming bistros, wine bars, the theater, and more.

Hanes Woven Pajama Set

These affordable solid blue pajamas from Hanes are dapper and comfortable. They’re made from a non-irritating, soft cotton blend, and feature a button-down top and pull-on pants with a stretchy waistband. The hem isn’t too long either, hitting around the ankle, so you’re unlikely to trip over them if you get up during the night.

“The beauty and pace of the city lends itself to a leisurely day of walking,” says Cowling. “With hours spent exploring the many museums and art galleries to the beautiful gardens, it's imperative to wear comfortable shoes.” Margaux Medeaux agrees, noting that “you should definitely bring a comfortable pair of sneakers or ballerinas – your best ally to stride along the Parisian streets.”

Indeed, Paris requires a degree of practicality when it comes to footwear, but it’s a city of fantasy, and dressing up is all part of the fun. For footwear, it all comes down to high quality and smart design, and we’ve rounded up the best options that blend both. The common theme? Look to the Italians for the best blend of aesthetics and functionality.

Best Versatile Women’s Day Shoes

Scarosso loafers.

Jetsetters in the know rave about Scarosso’s handcrafted shoes. These look and feel like the crème de la crème of designer loafers (think Roger Vivier, Loro Piana, Tod’s, et al.), but are a fraction of the price. Made from a brushed calf leather, they are supremely comfortable and are fashionable yet timeless. They’re topped with tassels and have a flattering 2.5-centimeter heel and a rubber and leather sole that provides good grip. Another plus for travel? They come equipped with a packable shoe horn and shoe bags to protect from damage in transit.

Best Women’s Heels

M.gemi the mia due 90mm.

The key to wearing heels in Paris is to find a pair you can walk in with confidence, like these slingbacks from M.Gemi, with a flared heel for added stability. The elastic keeps the shoe firmly in place without rubbing, and they’re made from a luxuriously soft Italian Nappa leather. Other details include the round topline that has an elongating effect on the legs and the ladylike pointed toe. If a high heel seems too daunting, they’re also available in a lower-heeled version. And color-wise, opt for the ballet pink or the black (save the metallics for somewhere flashier, like Milan).

Best Sneakers for Men and Women

Everlane the forever sneaker.

Simple and comfortable sneakers will serve you well in Paris, and this popular style from Everlane has the comfort and durability of a sports shoe without screaming “athleisure.” They’re wearable, versatile, and available in basic black and white, without any distracting logos or color accents. Half-size options are available for both men and women, so you can ensure you’re getting a good fit – necessary if you’re going to be walking around in them all day.

Best Loafers for Men

Scarosso men's ludovico loafer.

Another sophisticated style from Italian brand Scarosso is the lightweight Ludovico Loafer, made from a dark brown calfskin leather. The rubber sole is flexible, grippy, and bouncy – i.e., ideal for both packing and walking around while you’re on the ground. They feature hand stitching on the sides of the vamp, and a low, elongating shape that is flattering on the ankle (and looks great with cuffed chinos). Plus, they’re so soft, you won’t need to break them in before wearing them.

Best Men’s Evening Shoes

M.gemi penny loafer.

Penny loafers have long been a gentleman’s go-to for formal occasions, and this elegant pair from M. Gemi is comfortable, stylish, and durable. They have a flexible sole, Grosgrain binding for blister-free wear, and a hand-burnished finish in a soft calf leather. Per most of the best shoes, these are handmade in Italy, and the artisan craftsmanship is evident.

Best Gear and Accessories

The main accessories you’ll need for Paris are items to complete your outfit – think sunglasses, a crossbody bag, and a good belt. And, as on any trip, remember to pack your sunscreen and any toiletries you may need while abroad.  One item the Paris Tourist Board recommends bringing is a reusable water bottle. “You will find many self-service drinking water fountains,” advised a representative.

Best Women’s Sunglasses

Toteme square-frame acetate sunglasses.

Aptly named “The Classics,” these polished black acetate sunglasses from Scandinavian brand Toteme are sure to outlive any seasonal trends. They have a square shape with rounded edges, 100 percent UV protection, and strong, fitted arms that help to keep them in place. And the logo is subtle – there are no bold gold accents on the sides or anything that could clash with your jewelry.

Best Men’s Sunglasses

Garrett leight round acetate sunglasses.

Garrett Leight

Some colored sunglasses can look like forced trends, but this muted butterscotch pair from Garrett Leight is sophisticated and flattering on most face shapes. The acetate frame is quite thin, so the color isn’t an overbearing feature, and the mineral glass lenses contain AR coating and UV protection. Although the arms are slim, you can turn your head without worrying about them falling off.

Best Women’s Belt

J.crew classic belt in patent leather.

An often overlooked but game-changing accessory is a classic black belt. It can elevate the most basic ensembles, say a white tee and jeans – to look a lot more polished and put together. This patent vegan leather belt from J.Crew is an excellent option, with gold hardware, invisible black stitching, and a medium width that goes with most pants (or dresses to accentuate the waist).

Best Men’s Belt

Boss leather belt.

Made from 100 percent Italian leather and available in black, brown, and dark brown, this Boss belt is a wardrobe staple you’re sure to get a lot of wear out of — whether you're packing for a business trip or a Parisian getaway. It has a minimal silver pin buckle that doesn’t distract from the rest of your outfit. It’s noted to size up for the best fit.

Best Handbag

Jw pei flap crossbody.

When traveling to any city, a crossbody bag with just enough space for the essentials is sure to make life easier. And there are, of course, a myriad of options from Paris’s most revered maisons (Dior, Celine, Saint Laurent, and more), but affordable bags are having a moment, and this vegan leather style is an excellent option if you want a designer look for under $100. Plus, Parisians aren’t big on flashy labels and loud embellishments, so an understated bag like this would fit right in. It will easily fit your phone, hand sanitizer, lip balms, and wallet.

Best Jewelry

Messika paris pink gold diamond ring.

Messika Paris

Messika is one of the most innovative jewelry houses to emerge from Paris since Cartier, and this 18-carat gold and diamond ring has become a hot ticket item with les filles . The central diamond sways to movement in a delicate gold “cage” and it sits higher on the finger, just below nails. This is understated elegance at its best.

Best Water Bottle

Larq bottle purevis.

This is the world’s first self-cleaning water bottle with a built-in water purification system, designed to eliminate 99 percent of bio contaminants, including e-coli. You’re highly unlikely to get water poisoning from Paris, but it’ll give you extra peace of mind if you’re filling up at a fountain you’re on the fence about. Plus, it looks sleek and is available in insulated and non-insulated versions — making it easy to stay hydrated no matter where your travels take you.

Best Luggage

Having too much luggage can be cumbersome, so consider how much space you’ll need for the days that you’re there. If it’s a quick weekend jaunt across the Atlantic, you might even be able to manage with a carry-on suitcase and a duffel, but for longer trips, taking a larger, checked suitcase is advised. 

Before purchasing any luggage, be sure to check the allowance on the airline’s website – there are many carriers offering the NYC to Paris route nowadays (Air France, Emirates, United Airlines, American Airlines and more), and the dimensions for carry-on suitcases can vary. 

Best Checked Suitcase

Away the medium flex.

Modern travelers are familiar with Away’s innovative suitcases (you can even spot them in the hotel lobby of the latest White Lotus series), and the brand’s newest release is ideal for trips where you’re likely to be returning with more than what you left with – aka the shopping mecca that is Paris. The hardshell-style suitcase has a flex zipper expansion that allows for an extra 1.175 inches of space, plus, it has smart features like 360-degree spinner wheels, a TSA-combination lock, and interior compression.

Best Duffel

Lesportsac large weekender.

LeSportsac’s Weekenders are ideal for short trips or for stowing in the overhead bin on your flight. They’re made from a durable, ripstop recycled nylon, and have interior and exterior pockets so you can keep everything in order (and ensure your passports are tucked away safely). It has a top handle and a wide detachable crossbody strap.

Best Carry-on Suitcase

Tumi international expandable carry-on.

While this is an investment, Tumi suitcases are made to last, and this four-wheeled expandable carry-on looks slick and has smart features throughout, from the built-in USB port, to the lightweight, antimicrobial-treated shell for germ-conscious travelers. It has an expanded depth, so you can fit more inside, and the dimensions are the largest that are allowed on most international and domestic flights, so it's a great option whether you're packing for a trip to Vegas or Paris.

According to Bulgari’s Bastien Lalanne “flashy jewelry is generally not recommended when you travel, and in a big city like Paris we would advise visitors to stay discreet.”

Kerry Fee, an advisor with Travellustre, a Virtuoso Agency, says that travelers should avoid bringing too many clothes. “It sounds silly, being Paris and all, but overpacking and overdressing is a common mistake for many clients,” she says. “Don't go overboard, pack simply, and focus on staples, monochromatic colors and step up your accessories!” Even if you're packing for a long trip , you're better off taking the streamlined approach.

The Paris Tourist Office’s top tips? “Don’t come to Paris with too much luggage and don’t bring things that you can easily find. In “the shopping capital” you can always buy what you need (or want!) in one of the many stores. It will also be an opportunity to discover the historic department stores, local shops, famous boutiques, as well as the numerous creators’ and craftsmen’s workshops.”

“We would avoid moving around with a huge camera, city maps and souvenirs’ shop bags,” says Bastien Lalanne. And as for the actual outfits, less is more. “Contrary to what one might think after watching Emily in Paris, the baguette and the beret are not good accessories to choose if you want to look like a real Parisian. Instead, opt for a chic but relaxed look to fully experience the effervescent life Paris has to offer,” advises Cheval Blanc’s Margaux Médeau.

Think of a capsule wardrobe with high-quality, well-tailored staples: jeans, a fresh white tee, a tailored shirt, a blazer, a trench, practical shoes, and a secure crossbody bag. 

Yes, and according to Fee, “filling stations are located few throughout the city, but you can pop into any cafe and kindly ask to fill up (and ideally leave a small tip as appreciation or sit for a quick espresso).” She adds that the water in Paris is fine to drink. “I always encourage clients to avoid disposable plastic whenever possible and would recommend bringing a water bottle as you cruise the city.” 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Travel + Leisure contributors are shopping, fashion, and lifestyle experts who draw on personal experience and market recommendations to curate the best products for shoppers. This article was written by Amy Louise Bailey who has a decade-plus career in the fashion and luxury lifestyle industry and has spent time in Paris. She interviewed the Paris Tourist Office along with concierges from the city’s leading hotels, including The Ritz Paris, The Bulgari Paris, Cheval Blanc Paris, and The Saint James Paris. She also gained insights from Travellustre, a Virtuoso Agency, and renowned online retailer Moda Operandi. The experts she consulted in order to compile the best Paris packing list included the following:

  • Simudzai Kufandada , Chief Concierge for the legendary Ritz Paris
  • Laure Pertusier , General Manager of the Saint James Club
  • Margaux Médeau , Cheval Blanc’s Assistant Front of House Director
  • Bastien Lalanne , Chief Concierge at the Bulgari Hotel
  • Tiernan Cowling , Moda Operandi ’s Senior Ready-to-Wear Buyer
  • Kerry Fee , an advisor with Travellustre, a Virtuoso Agency

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Related Articles

MLB

MLB in ‘planning stages’ for 2025 Paris series, exploring other international locations: Manfred

LAKELAND, FL - MARCH 01:  A detailed view of a pair of official Rawlings Major League Baseball baseballs with the imprinted signature of  Robert D. Manfred Jr., the Commissioner of Major League Baseball, sitting in the dugout prior to the Spring Training game between the New York Yankees and the Detroit Tigers at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium on March 1, 2020 in Lakeland, Florida. The Tigers defeated the Yankees 10-4.  (Photo by Mark Cunningham/MLB Photos via Getty Images)

Major League Baseball is in the “planning stages” of organizing a series in Paris in 2025 similar to this weekend’s London Series between the Cubs and Cardinals , commissioner Rob Manfred said Friday. Here’s what you need to know:

  • “We are in the process of working on Paris in 2025,” Manfred said at a news conference. “We’re not at the point where we’re going to make a commitment or a more formal announcement, but it is in the planning stages.”
  • Also on Friday, Manfred officially announced the Mets and Phillies are taking their rivalry across the pond for the 2024 London Series. The Athletic previously reported in May the details of next season’s two-game series between the National League East foes.
  • The Cubs and Cardinals will face off at London Stadium on Saturday and Sunday.
Hey London – we’ll see you next year!   The @Mets and @Phillies will take part in the 2024 #LondonSeries on June 8 and 9. pic.twitter.com/xTipiCtKMm — MLB (@MLB) June 23, 2023

What Manfred said

Manfred addressed how the MLB plans to expand its international games outside of Europe in the future.

“We have a very detailed plan to play in addition to London. We’ve been to Mexico already. We intend to be there again,” he said. “We view Europe, generally, as a strategic priority for us going forward. We are also interested in places in the Americas where it’s closer to home and baseball has more of a rooting in the culture. … Japan, Taiwan and Korea also remain important initiatives for us and we will be playing in those countries over the course of the next few years.”

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Asked when a decision on the A’s relocation to Las Vegas could occur, Manfred said, “I don’t have a firm timeline … it depends when the (relocation) application comes in and how long the (relocation) committee feels it needs to examine the application.”

Manfred added that the A’s franchise has not submitted its application to move out of Oakland.

Talks of an MLB series in Paris began circulating last year, with the Yankees among the teams who expressed interest in playing in the French capital. The Yankees played the Boston Red Sox in the 2019 London Series, sweeping their rivals in the two-game series at West Ham’s Olympic Stadium.

The 2019 London Series was the first set of MLB regular-season games played in Europe.

This season, the Padres and Giants met for a two-game series in Mexico City in April. It marked MLB’s first regular-season trip to the Mexican capital. San Diego scored a combined 22 runs in their series sweep over San Francisco .

The Cubs and Cardinals were originally slated to play in London in 2020, but that series was canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic. MLB made plans to return to London in 2023, 2024 and 2026 as part of its new collective bargaining agreement.

Required reading

  • Rosenthal: A new role for the fiercest of competitors. Meet Chase Utley, ambassador.
  • Rosenthal: MLB owners have chance to question A’s move to Vegas; plus trade deadline decisions

(Photo: Mark Cunningham / MLB Photos via Getty Images)

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