Paris In April 2024: Weather + 23 Amazing Things To Do

Paris in April is one of the best months to visit the City of Lights. Spring has sprung, colourful flowers abound and with that, a magnificent fragrance pervades the city. Paris is a stunner with its cherry blossoms, lilac and chestnut trees laden with blooms, and purple wisteria cascading down unexpected stone walls.

Not to mention, Paris in April has fewer crowds than in the busy summer months, mild weather, and longer days allowing more opportunity to explore all the French capital has to offer. Take a leisurely stroll along the Seine River, visit iconic landmarks, tantalize your senses at an outdoor market, or simply get lost in the cobbled laneways. A trip to Paris in April is sure to be a winner!

The Paris Weather in April

Paris in April is experiencing the transition from late winter into early spring weather. The days will be cooler at the beginning of the month compared to the end of April. Average temperatures range from daily lows of 45°F (7°C) to average highs of 62°F (17°C). Temperatures will vary throughout the month with early April in Paris being cooler than later in the month. Nights can be chilly, thus the need to pack layers!

The average day in Paris during April has 13.47 hours of daylight with sunrise at 6:56 a.m. and sunset at 8:44 p.m. Oh là là… so much time for exploring!

Does it rain in Paris in April? Of course, it rains in Paris in April because spring showers are a given! There is about 50 to 60 mm of precipitation in April but usually, these come in the form of intermittent showers and don’t last long.

Don’t forget to pack a scarf as Paris can be windy.

FAQ’s Paris In April

Is April 2024 a good time to go to Paris?

April is one of the best months to visit Paris. There are fewer crowds than in the summer, the city is filled with gorgeous spring blossoms, the days are getting longer, and the weather is mild. It is the perfect month to visit the famous landmarks and to get off the beaten path in Paris.

Are there any special events in Paris in April 2024?

In April 2024, Easter Monday falls on April 1. The Paris Marathon is on April 7, 2024. Other events are listed below.

What Is the April in Paris song?

Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong first sang April in Paris in 1932. Listen to the lyrics, they still apply! Some of my favourite lines are “April in Paris, chestnuts in bloom, ” “April in Paris, this is a feeling” “I never knew the charm of spring.” Stroll through Paris in April humming this delightful song. It is an incredibly joyous feeling.

Paris In April: 23 Best Things To Do

1. Marvel At Paris In Bloom

Paris in April is a feast for the senses. It’s a complete riot of colour. Paris is coloured with the hue of cherry blossoms, wisteria, lilacs, chestnut blooms, and roses. Follow the trail of spring flowers in Paris for the sheer pleasure of being in the most beautiful city in the world at the most beautiful time of year.

If you are obsessed with cherry blossoms why not head to Parc de Sceaux in April to see 150 cherry trees flowering? Read all about the cherry trees at Parc de Sceaux.

2. Stroll The Seine On A Sunny Day

Walking the banks of the Seine River is an essential thing to do in Paris in April (or any time of the year). Energetic souls will want to cover this entire UNESCO World Heritage Site from Ile Saint Louis right to the Eiffel Tower. Others may slip down to the quays of the Seine River for a short jaunt between bridges. Saunter, sit a bit, people watch. It’s all part of the Paris experience.

3. Visit The Famous Landmarks

Paris in April is the perfect time to visit her famous landmarks. I mean, can a visit to Paris be a visit to Paris without going to the top of the Eiffel Tower?! In April, major sites like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Arc de Triomphe see fewer crowds making it very enjoyable! In Paris, it is always advisable to book your entry tickets in advance, even in the low season.

Book Tickets In Advance:

• Eiffel Tower Summit Access – Skip the Line Ticket
• The Louvre – a timed-entry ticket
• Arc de Triomphe – a skip-the-line ticket to the top
• Musee d’Orsay – reserved entry time
• Versailles – skip the line ticket
• The Paris Catacombs – skip the line access and tour

4. Flaner Through Iconic Parisian Neighbourhoods

What better time to stroll through Paris than in April? Breathe in the scent of cherry trees. Flâner like a true Parisian. Amble, saunter and observe your surroundings. Here are some tips on how best to flâner in Paris.

Toss on your silk scarf and head out to one of Paris’s iconic neighbourhoods. Here are a few suggestions:

• le Marais – Place des Vosges, gorgeous mansions, shopping…
• Saint Germain des Prés – iconic left bank Paris
• Ile de la Cité – the heartbeat of Paris
• Ile Saint-Louis – oldest village in Paris…
• Montmartre – Sacré Coeur, staircases and oozing charm…
• the 7th arrondissement – Eiffel Tower & views, La Grande Epicierie…
• Canal Saint-Martin – iron bridges, boutiques, wine by the canal

5. Linger At A Sidewalk Café

Part of the Paris experience is to slow down and soak up the vibe. Find a terrasse. Either have lunch, simply have a coffee, or an apéritf (known in France as an apéro), and settle in. It’s part of the Parisian culture and it makes for exceptional people watching.

Paris In April: 6 Terrasses To Try

• Chez Prune by Canal Saint-Martin, a very hip and local bistro
• Café Charlot in the Marais; excellent people-watching
• Le Pick Clops in the Marais; live music on Sunday afternoons until 6:30 p.m.
• La Maison Sauvage in St Germain des Prés
• Rosa Bonheur sur Seine in the 7th arrondissement; a lively barge on the Seine
• Café Varenne on rue du Bac

6. Listen To Street Music On Pont St Louis

I just love the pedestrian bridge, Pont Saint-Louis, found on Ile Saint-Louis. On the weekends, there is always music and often the talented roller bladers put on a show to enthralled fans. Head to Ile Saint-Louis for ice cream, a wander about, and some great entertainment!

7. Have A Picnic In A Paris Garden

Paris in April is the perfect time to plan for a picnic. A French baguette, some French cheese, and a little sip of wine are key ingredients for a Parisian picnic. Paris’s beautiful gardens will be blooming and her elegant squares, such as Place des Vosges, are just beginning the picnic season!

Why not head to the Jardin des Tuileries and sit by one of the fountains? Linger in the Luxembourg Gardens where a grassy area is set aside for picnicking. Dive into a truly authentic Paris picnic experience on a hillside in Parc des Buttes Chaumont in the 19th arrondissement.

8. Cycle The Seine Pathways

Cycling by the Seine River is an unforgettable experience that should be on every traveller’s bucket list. Rent a bike at one of the many Velib Stations around Paris. Or take a guided tour like one of these: A 4-hour bike tour or a 3-hour bike tour.

The River Seine provides a scenic backdrop to the stunning Parisian landmarks and historic architecture that line its banks. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral to the Musée d’Orsay, there is no shortage of breathtaking sights to take in during a leisurely bike ride. Read about How Not to Get Your Velib Stolen

Cycling past the Eiffel Tower, you’ll be tempted to stop by! Book Your Eiffel Tower ticket here.

9. Have A Bistro Classic

One of the bistro classics that everyone should sample are oeufs mayonnaise. What sets them apart from devilled eggs is the homemade mayonnaise and the finesse with which a few simple ingredients can be transformed into a delectable entrée.

Peruse café menus for the legendary oeufs mayonnaise or head to a Paris Bouillon restaurant which offers traditional French cuisine at affordable prices. Which Bouillon will you choose? My favourite is Bouillon Julien.

10. Tango To Your Heart’s Content

I’ll never forget the first time I experienced Tango by the Seine. The divine dance, the exotic Argentine music, the sensual movements of the couples, and the elegance left a lasting impression. Will you be a spectator at the Jardin Tino-Rossi in the Latin Quarter or join in this dynamic walking embrace called the Tango?

Along this part of the Seine, there is also salsa dancing and rock. Follow your passion, find a spot to sit and tap your toes and be prepared… you just might get invited to dance as I did! 45 Most Romantic Places in Paris (yes, Tango is on the list!)

11. Descend To The Paris Catacombs

One of the most unique experiences in Paris is visiting the Paris Catacombs. Deep below the City of Lights, these ancient quarries have been transformed into a macabre resting place for several million souls. Originally created as a solution to overcrowded cemeteries in the late 18th century, this eerie underground ossuary has since become an intriguing tourist attraction. The catacombs offer incredible insight into French history and architecture and are well worth a visit! Read 25 Interesting Facts About The Paris Catacombs

12. Stroll Through Père Lachaise Cemetery

You wouldn’t think a cemetery would make the list of things to do in Paris in April. But historical Père Lachaise Cemetery does. It’s the iconic final resting place of some of the world’s most renowned figures. With its winding paths and monuments, Père Lachaise offers a tranquil sanctuary and a chance to delve into the legacies of artists, writers, musicians, and historical figures. From Oscar Wilde and Edith Piaf and Jim Morrison to Frédéric Chopin, each tombstone in Père Lachaise tells a story.

In April, the flowers are blooming and don’t miss the view of the Eiffel Tower!

13. Have Lunch At Ferradi Cooking School

Dining at Ferrandi, one of France’s top cooking schools, in one of their training restaurants, is a unique Paris experience that you will not soon forget. The servers under the watchful eye of their professors present the delectable multi-course meal that is created by the chefs-in-training. Find out how to take part in this rich Paris experience at Ferrandi.

14. Sip A Glass Of Wine In A Bookstore

One of the unique things to do in le Marais Paris is to sip a glass of wine at La Belle Hortense, a quaint, tiny bookstore and wine bar. La Belle Hortense is the perfect place to sip some fine wine recommended by the “barman, ” sit at the zinc bar, and browse through some books. It’s the ideal spot for a rest after walking all day in le Marais or to meet friends for a lively discussion!

Location: 31 rue Vieille du Temple, 75003 Paris

15. Follow The Art Nouveau Trail

You can’t miss Art Nouveau in Paris if you look for the Métro stations designed by Henri Guimard. They are a hallmark of classic Paris. If Guimard’s fanciful designs intrigue you, head to the residential area of the 16th arrondissement and follow this trail of fascinating facades.

If you can’t get to the 16th arrondissement, close to the Eiffel Tower in the 7th arrondissement is a stunning art nouveau façade at #29 Avenue Rapp.

16. Visit The Kings Tombs At Saint Denis Basilica

Have you ever wanted to explore the resting places of French kings? If so, a trip to the Basilica at Saint-Denis is in order. Located just north of Paris, this church is famed for its royal necropolis, where many Kings and Queens from centuries gone by have been laid to rest. Immerse yourself in French history and stroll past the impressive tombs of French royalty.

17. Take A Seine River Cruise

Paris in April is a wonderful time to take a Seine River cruise. Seeing Paris from a different perspective is awesome. Cruise past Notre Dame Cathedral and the Conciergerie. Pass under the beautiful bridges. It’s an unforgettable experience in the French capital.

How about taking a dinner cruise on the Seine River? See Paris twinkle at night and stay on the river longer (2.5 hours).

Here is another variation on the Seine River Dinner Cruise.

18. Visit One Of Over 130 Museums

Paris has a museum to meet everyone’s interest! Fashionistas will love the Dior Museum. History buffs will adore the National Museum of the Middle Ages (the Cluny Museum). Paris also has a smoking museum, a wax museum, a fairgrounds museum in the 12th arrondissement, and a wine museum.

Paris in April is the perfect time to visit the iconic Louvre Museum. With fewer crowds, seeing the Mona Lisa will be a decidedly more enjoyable experience. Visit the popular permanent collection at the Musée d’Orsay. It is highly recommended to purchase your entry tickets beforehand.

Passionate museum-goers will love the 2,4, or 6-day Paris Museum Pass which includes entry to many museums including the Louvre Museum and Versailles.

Pro Paris Tip: Many museums have free entry on the first Sunday of each month, excluding high season.

Read More | My guide to 20 Paris museums.

19. Visit A Free Museum

Paris is known for its wealth of cultural attractions, including many museums that offer free admission to their permanent collections. The Carnavalet Museum, or the History of Paris Museum, found in le Marais is a fabulous museum to pop into for just one hour. The Museum of Modern Art also offers free admission and has an impressive collection including works from Picasso and Braque. The Petit Palais is another favourite free museum in Paris. Wander through its varied collection and then stop for lunch in the hidden courtyard.

20. Head To Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris is one of the most popular day trips from Paris. Paris in April sees school holidays which will add to the crowds. That being said, the lineups move quickly at Disneyland Paris and Disneyland in April is much less busy than in the summer months. The best days of the week to visit Disneyland Paris are Tuesdays and Thursdays. The weather at Disneyland Paris in April is similar to Paris. Wear layers and be prepared for the wind!

Here are some great planning tips for Disneyland Paris.

Buy your tickets in advance for Disneyland.

21. Spent A Day At A Castle Near Paris

Any trip to Paris is not to be rushed. But Paris is in a fantastic location for visiting nearby castles. I mean, the Châteaux in France are not to be missed! Feeling curious and energetic? Here are three amazing castles that make a great day trip from Paris in April.

Castles:

• the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Château de Versailles: Plan a day trip to Versailles on your own; take one of these seven selected Versailles tours from Paris. The Musical Fountains and Garden Shows have just reopened for the 2024 season. (March 31 to October 31, 2024)
• the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Château de Fontainebleau: Plan a day trip from Paris to visit the Château de Fontainebleau. Get your Château de Fontainebleau entry ticket.
• the magnificent Château de Chantilly: Plan your day trip to Chantilly and get your entry ticket to Château de Chantilly including equestrian demonstrations and Chantilly whipped cream workshops!

22. Take A Day Trip To The Loire Valley

If you love beautiful French castles, how about heading to the Loire Valley in April? Here is my curated list of the best guided day trips from Paris to the Loire Valley. The stunning châteaux and landscapes will leave a lasting impression!

23. Take Time For Yourself At The Paris Mosque

Paris in April seems like the best time to head to the Grand Mosquée in the Latin Quarter. Visit the gardens with spectacular wisteria cascading and be swept away by the trickling fountains. Women can partake in the Hammam at the Mosque. Relax in the steam room, and have a gommage (a scrub with black soap), and a soothing massage. Step back out into the Paris streets relaxed and glowing.

Paris In April 2024: The Holidays

• Good Friday: Friday, March 29, 2024
• Easter: Sunday, March 31, 2024, (public holiday/ jour ferié)
• Easter Monday: Monday, April 1, 2024 (public holiday/ jour ferié)
• School Holidays: Saturday, April 13, 2024, to Sunday, April 29, 2024

If you are coming to Paris at the very beginning of April 2024, you are arriving on Easter Monday. Good Friday is not a bank holiday in France. Easter Monday is a bank holiday. Therefore, stores are all open on Good Friday. On Easter Sunday and Easter Monday, businesses and stores are closed. Check your local bakery, grocery store, and café for their holiday hours.

Celebrations And Events In April In Paris

Poisson d’Avril: April 1, 2024

Ah, the French version of April Fool’s Day. Poisson d’Avril is a lighthearted and playful tradition in France. The tradition involves people trying to attach a paper fish to the back of an unsuspecting friend or family member. When the prank is discovered, the person calls out, “Poisson d’Avril!” I watched a French family playing this on the Eurostar last year. Just delightful!

Foire de Trône: March 22, 2024, to April 21, 2024

The Foire de Trône is one of the oldest fairs in France, dating back to the 12th century. The funfair takes place in the Pelouse de Reuilly in the 12th arrondissement of Paris, and features a wide range of attractions and rides for all ages, from traditional carousels and Ferris wheels to high-speed roller coasters and thrilling thrill rides.

Hanami Festival At Parc de Sceaux: March 30, 2024 to April 28, 2024

The Cherry Blossom Festival at Parc de Sceaux is well worth a visit. With over 150 cherry blossom trees flowering, it is the perfect poetic escape from Paris!

Opera Festival At Sainte Chapelle: Various dates April 2024

Soaring stained glass windows and gorgeous singing voices will make this an unforgettable evening.

The Paris Marathon: Sunday, April 7, 2024

The Paris Marathon starts at the Arc de Triomphe with 65000 runners from all over the world running down the Champs Elysées. Will you participate or be part of the 25000 spectators?

Livre Paris: Salon du Livre de Paris: April 12 to 14, 2024

The literary event of the year, Livre Paris, at the Grand Palais Ephémère in the 7th arrondissement attracts 1200 publishers and 4500 writers. Will you go for a book signing or to see new publications? In April 2024, thirty or more authors from Québec, Canada have been invited as honoured guests.

Paris to Roubaix Cycling Challenge: April 6, 2024

If you are a cycling fan you may want to check out this one-day gruelling cycling challenge, also known as “The Hell of the North.” The course runs from the outskirts of Paris to the city of Roubaix in northern France.

Plan Your Trip To Paris

• Book your airline tickets with my favourite platform, Skyscanner.
• Book a transfer from Charles de Gaulle or Orly airport with Welcome Pick Ups.
• Reserve a car (not for Paris) but for a road trip in France
• Reserve train tickets for further travels in Europe with Trainline (my go-to)

What To Wear In Paris In April

The key to dressing for Paris in April is layers. Bring clothes that can be mixed and matched with a similar colour palette. Bring long-sleeved T-shirts or blouses that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. A common question is “Do I need a coat in Paris in April?” Yes, you need a light coat for cooler mornings and evenings.

Here is a suggested packing list for Paris in April:

• A Trenchcoat: A trenchcoat that is easily layered is the perfect coat for April weather in Paris
• A Leather Jacket: Another option for layering.
• Jeans: essential. Add in a dark pair.
• Dress or skirts: Must fit the colour palette and can be dressed up or down
• Layers: Pack light sweaters. Add in a blazer.
• Scarf: A scarf can add warmth and style to any outfit.
• Casual Runners: Good walking shoes such as runners are essential.
• Stylish Loafers: As long as they are comfortable, April in Paris is the perfect time of year for loafers.
• Umbrella: Pack a compact umbrella that can be easily carried in your day bag.
• A cross-body bag. This one is for men and women. This purse is a travel anti-theft shoulder bag. There are multiple advantages of a crossbody bag, but especially to tuck it under your arm for safekeeping on the Paris métro.

Where To Stay In Paris

• Check out these 13 Affordable Hotels in Paris
• Find Boutique hotels in the Marais
• Choose a hotel with an Eiffel Tower view

Prefer staying in an apartment? Here are some fabulous Paris apartments:

• Portrait of Splendour literally filled with portraits, in the Marais
• Joyau de Marais
• The Panthéon Pageantry

Best Guided Tours And Skip The Line Tickets

Be sure to book in advance for the most popular things to do. Book your one-hour Seine cruise, a timed-entry ticket to the Louvre, and a skip-the-line ticket to the top of the Arc de Triomphe. And don’t forget Versailles and Disneyland!

I hope you love exploring Paris in April as much as I do. It is one of the best months to visit Paris.

If you are still trying to decide which month is best for you, here are my monthly guides to Paris:

Jan | Feb | Mar | April | May | June | July | Aug | Sept | Oct | Nov | Dec

Until next time,