Paris Weather Guide
France
Best Time to Visit
May, June, September, October
Avoid
November, December, January (grey and cold)
Climate
Semi-oceanic — mild with four distinct seasons, regular rainfall
Annual Rainfall
25 inches (641 mm)
Overview
Paris has a pleasant climate with warm summers and cool winters. Spring and fall are the most popular seasons for a reason — mild temperatures, manageable crowds, and the city at its most photogenic. Summers can have heat waves; winters are cold but rarely harsh.
Seasonal Weather Breakdown
Spring
March–May
46–66°F
8–19°C
Paris comes alive in spring. April showers are common but brief. Parks and gardens bloom beautifully. May is arguably the best month.
- →Luxembourg Gardens and Tuileries are glorious in May
- →Layer up — mornings are still cool
- →Café terraces fill up — arrive early
Summer
June–August
64–79°F
18–26°C
Warm and generally sunny. Heat waves occur every few years and can push temps above 95°F. Many Parisians leave in August — some restaurants and shops close.
- →Book accommodation with AC for heat wave periods
- →Avoid August if you want authentic Parisian life
- →Seine-side parks offer relief from urban heat
Fall
September–November
50–66°F
10–19°C
September is still warm and beautiful. Foliage in the Bois de Boulogne and Luxembourg Gardens peaks in October. November turns grey and rainy.
- →Perfect season for walking and café culture
- →Bring a medium-weight jacket by October
- →Fashion Week (September–October) adds energy and crowds
Winter
December–February
36–46°F
2–8°C
Cold and grey but not severe. Snow is rare. Christmas markets and decorations make December magical. January–February are the least appealing months.
- →Christmas lights on Champs-Élysées are worth it in December
- →Museums are excellent winter escapes
- →Wind along the Seine can be biting
What to Pack for Paris
- ✓Compact umbrella every season
- ✓Stylish layers — Paris has a dress code, even in the rain
- ✓Comfortable walking shoes
- ✓Light scarf for cool evenings in summer
Paris Weather FAQ
What is the best time to visit Paris for weather?
May, June, and September are ideal — temperatures range from 64–75°F (18–24°C), sunshine is reliable, and crowds are manageable. May is often considered the best single month.
Does Paris get very hot in summer?
Summers are usually pleasant (avg 77°F/25°C) but heat waves have become more frequent and severe since 2003. During heat waves, temps can reach 95–104°F (35–40°C) for several days. Most historic buildings and many hotels lack AC.
Which Paris neighborhood is coolest in summer?
Neighborhoods near the Seine (Île de la Cité, Île Saint-Louis) benefit from river cooling. Montmartre, being elevated, catches more breeze. Marais and Saint-Germain, with dense medieval street patterns, tend to trap heat.
Is Paris rainy?
Paris gets about 25 inches (641mm) of rain per year, spread fairly evenly. It drizzles regularly but rarely pours. No month averages more than 5 rain days. Always carry a light umbrella or raincoat.
Neighborhoods in Paris
Each neighborhood in Paris has its own microclimate. Check real-time conditions below: