Paris In July: Your Guide to The Best Things To Do [2024]

Paris in July sizzles. In more ways than one! Paris in July has a high energy vibe. The French capital is full of tourists and locals enjoying the long warm days and experiencing what Paris has to offer. Whether enjoying the major landmarks, dining at sidewalk cafés, or attending outdoor events and festivals, Paris in July serves up a vibrant and memorable experience for one and all!

The summer of 2024 Paris is going to be a bustling hub of athleticism and culture exchanges. Be prepared for crowds as Paris welcomes athletes and spectators from around the globe. Paris will be showcasing its iconic monuments and unique culture alongside the dynamic atmosphere of the Olympic spirit.

• Paris Olympics: Friday, July 26, 2024 to Sunday, August 11, 2024
• Paris Paralympics: Wednesday, August 28, 2024 to Sunday, September 8, 2024

Weather In Paris In July

Paris in July is the height of summer and one of the warmest months in the French capital. In July, average daytime temperatures range from 63°F (17°C) to average highs of 77°F (25°C). However, during heatwaves, temperatures can climb towards 86°F (30°C). At these times, Paris can feel very humid. Head to the parks to keep cool or to the closest beach in Normandy at Deauville.

Expect sunny days in Paris in the month of July. The average day in Paris during July has 15.49 hours of daylight with sunrise at 6:02 a.m. and sunset at 9:51 p.m.

Paris in July is mostly dry and sunny. Expect occasional thunderstorms or showers

What To Wear In Summertime Paris?

It’s summer! Pack a capsule wardrobe with colour-coordinated lightweight, breathable clothing. Cool dresses, skirts, and pants are the best. Comfortable walking shoes are key. Add in a light jacket or sweater for the evenings. Pack sunscreen.

Where To Stay In Paris

Book your hotel well in advance for your Paris in July trip. Not all hotel rooms or apartments have air-conditioning. Check in advance.

• Check out these 13 Affordable Hotels in Paris
• Find other Boutique hotels in the Marais
• Here are 21 Hotels with Eiffel Tower views

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

• Portrait of Splendour
• Joyau de Marais
• The Panthéon Pageantry

The July Holidays In France

• School Holidays: begin July 6, 2024
• Bastille Day: July 14, 2024

Celebrations And Events In July In Paris

Paris Jazz Festival: June 26 to September 8, 2024

The Paris Jazz Festival returns to Parc Floral in the Bois de Vincennes (12th arrondissement) at the end of June. The Paris Jazz Festival offers 9 free daytime concerts accessible without reservations. Check out the schedule of the Jazz Festival.

Fête des Tuileries (Fête Foraine des Tuileries): June 22 to August 25, 2024

Cotton candy, carnival games, and squeals of laughter are the name of the game! The giant Ferris wheel is hard to miss – enjoy over 60 rides, the fun fairground games and food (did someone say popcorn and cotton candy?)

*Please Note: Due to the Paris Olympics, the Fête des Tuileries will take place in the Bois de Boulogne in 2024

Hours 2024: Sunday to Thursday 11 AM to 11:45 PM; Friday and Saturday 11 AM to 12:45 PM

Cinéma Paradiso Louvre: 2024 dates TBA

Oh là là… another open-air cinema, this one for four consecutive nights in the Louvre Courtyard (the Cour Carrée). This is a free event. Tickets are selected by lottery one month in advance.

L’Ete du Canal Paris: July 6, 2024 to August 11, 2024

Look for floating concerts, open air cinema, street art, and free workshops all around the Bassin de la Villette (the Canal de l’Ourcq and the Canal Saint-Denis) in the 19th arrondissement.

Tour de France: June 29, 2024 to July 21, 2024

In its 111th year, 2024 will be the first time that the finish line for the famous cycling race, the Tour de France, is not in Paris. The Tour de France in 2024 will finish in Nice, France and not Paris due to the preparations for the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Lollapalooza Paris:

(yearly music festival cancelled for 2024)

Paris In July: Avoid The Scams

During high season, scammers and pickpockets are alive in Paris. Make sure you have a cross-body bag that zips up, wear your backpack on the front in crowded spots and read this detailed article on 9 specific scams to watch out for. It never ceases to amaze me that the bracelet scammers at Sacré Coeur are out in full force every time I pass by.

What To Do In Paris In July

1. It’s July In Paris – Ice Cream Is A Must!

Paris has many fantastic ice cream parlours offering handmade ice cream, gelato, and sorbet. The range of delicious and creative flavours will have you returning for more than one cone! There are decades-old family-run businesses such as Berthillon on Ile Saint Louis and Bac à Glaces on rue du Bac. Here’s the full list of the best ice cream shops in Paris!

2. Flâner Through Paris

The best way to enjoy Paris is to walk. Embrace the Parisian way to flâner, which is to amble, saunter and observe your surroundings. Here are some tips on how best to flâner in Paris.

Toss on your coolest clothes and comfortable walking shoes and head out early in the day to one of these Parisian neighbourhoods for walking. Here are a few suggestions:

• le Marais – Place des Vosges, gorgeous mansions, shopping…
• Ile Saint-Louis – the oldest village in Paris…
• Montmartre – Sacré Coeur, staircases and oozing charm…
• the 7th arrondissement – the Eiffel Tower & views, La Grande Epicierie…
• Canal Saint-Martin – iron bridges, boutiques, wine by the canal
• the 14th arrondissement – the Paris Catacombs, iconic cafés…
• les Buttes aux Cailles – plenty of street art, the village feel…
• the 16th arrondissement – on the trail of art nouveau…

Or start to flâner on one of these Paris streets. Sometimes I start an expedition as a flâneuse around a hidden gem that I haven’t seen before.

When sauntering in Paris in the summer, go early!

3. Enjoy Bastille Day Festivities

Did someone say Bastille Day Celebrations? Fireworks display, a military parade and countless festivities? This is July 14 in Paris, Bastille Day, a national holiday.

On the afternoon of July 14 1789, revolutionaries stormed the Bastille prison, which symbolized the tyranny of the monarchy. This was the beginning of the French Revolution.

The French refer to this national holiday as La Fête Nationale (French National Day) or Le Quatorze Juillet (July 14th).

The day starts with a military ceremony including an impressive flyover and a huge parade down the Champs Elysées. Listen to music in Paris’s bandstands, attend a Firemen’s Ball (Bals des Pompiers), and find the perfect viewpoint for the incredible Eiffel Tower fireworks at sunset. If you plan to see the fireworks from the Champ de Mars, arrive early in the day to secure a spot.

4. Visit Iconic Landmarks

No trip to Paris can be planned without seeing or revisiting her iconic landmarks. Be sure to purchase skip-the-line-tickets in advance to guarantee access.

• 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

5. Watch A Film At The Open Air Cinema At La Villette

• Please note that this event is cancelled in 2024

Relax on the sprawling lawns at the Parc de la Villette and as dusk falls the screenings begin. The open-air cinema has been a Paris summer tradition for twenty years. With a wide selection of French and international films, it is a fun and unique way to enjoy Paris in July.

The theme for the Paris Olympics and Paralympics in 2024 is Team Spirit. Mid-July to mid-August, 2024. Cost to Enter: Free

6. Partake In Paris Plages

This year in 2024, Paris celebrates its 22nd year with Paris Plages. Look for deck chairs and palm trees along the quays of the river Seine.

At the Bassin de la Villette in the 19th arrondissement, the summery Paris fun continues with swimming, paddleboats, kayaks, deck chairs and beaches. The three swimming pools and two paddling pools are the perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day in Paris.

• Paris Plages runs from July 27 to September 8, 2024.
• Paris Plages Hours: Along the Banks of the Seine, daily from 10 AM to 6:30 PM.
• Bassin de la Villette, daily from 10 AM to 10 PM; weekends from 10 AM to midnight.
• Find more detailed information here.

7. Summer In Paris: Shop The Summer Sales

Summer in Paris is made all the sweeter by the phenomenal deals found during the summer sales known as “les soldes.”

By law, sales are allowed twice yearly in January and July. In my experience, there are pre-sales before the real sales begin. But look out! Once the real sales begin, the reductions are significant and the shoppers are out! Ohhh…it’s fun to look for great deals.

Summer Soldes in Paris 2024: June 26 to July 23, 2024

8. Gastronomic Pleasure in Paris

Sitting out for dinner on a terrace in Paris in July is delightful. The terraces bustle as everyone is taking advantage of long, languid summer days

Here are some of my favourite places to eat:

• 19 Restaurants in Le Marais
• 13 Best Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants In Paris
• 15 Best Restaurants Near Canal Saint Martin

Here are my best tips for finding the best gastronomic delights in Paris in July. If you’re going to have a croissant it needs to be exceptional. Right?

• Where to find the best croissant in Paris
• Where to find the best Pâtisseries in Paris
• How to eat a Baguette Like the French
• Where to find the best fromageries in Paris
• How to choose and purchase French cheese in a fromagerie in Paris

9. 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?

10. Paris In July: Get On The Water

Paris in July is the best time to find the water!

• The Seine River: Getting on the Seine involves taking a cruise. Choose from a variety of cruises including a day-time cruise, lunch cruises and dinner cruises.
• Canal Saint-Martin: Take a cruise including the Seine River and Canal Saint-Martin.
• Bassin de la Villette: Rent an electric boat at Marin d’Eau Douce on the Canal de l’Ourcq.
• The Bois de Boulogne: Rent a rowboat and lazily row on the lake in Bois de Boulogne. Head to “Services des Bateaux du Bois de Boulogne” to find the rental service. Bring a picnic! Leave time to visit the beautiful Parc de Bagatelle nearby.
• The Bois de Vincennes: Head out to eastern Paris to the lovely Bois de Vincennes. Search for “Location de Barques du Lac Daumesnil” on google maps, rent your boat, and enjoy your Paris in July day!

11. Head To A Beach In Normandy

When a heat wave heats Paris in July, one of the best ways to keep cool is to take a day trip to the beach. The best beaches closest to Paris are Deauville and Trouville in Normandy. Catch an early morning train and spend the day swimming, walking the beach, perched under a parasol, and exploring the charming towns.

12. Marvel At The View From The Panthéon

Originally erected as a church to honour Sainte Geneviève, after the French Revolution the Panthéon was transformed into a temple where famous French men (yes, mostly men) are interred. Wandering through the crypt, you’ll find a real who’s who of the French greats. You’ll also find a fabulous art collection and Foucault’s pendulum.

From April to October 31 climb the 206 stairs of the Panthéon to the viewing platform for marvellous views over Paris.

• Location: Place du Panthéon, 75005 Paris
• 2024 Hours: April 1 to September 30, 2024, 10 AM to 6:30 PM; October 1 to March 31, 2025 10 AM to 6:00 PM
• Closed: January 1, May 1, December 25
• 2024 Entrance Fees: €13 for the crypt and the nave; the Panorama View is an additional €3.50

Read More | The 7 Women Honoured in the Panthéon, Paris.

13. Find Shade in the Parks and Gardens

You’ll want to spend a little time under a shady tree in Paris in July. All the parks and gardens are looking gorgeous in July with their towering trees and meticulously planted flower gardens.

Why not spend some time at the Luxembourg Gardens, the Tuileries Gardens, Parc Monceau, or the the Jardin des Plantes? If you want to head a bit further afield, why not look for a shady spot at Parc des Buttes Chaumont in the 19th arrondissement, the Parc Floral in the Bois de Vincennes, or the stunnning Parc de Bagatelle in the Bois de Boulogne?

14. Visit The Best Paris Flea Market

Nestled on the outskirts of Paris, the flea market at Saint-Ouen beckons with its unique charm and a treasure trove of vintage wonders. Les Puces de Saint Ouen is an eclectic mix of antiques, knick-knacks, retro fashion, and hidden gems. It is a real outing to browse through the maze of alleys and find that special something to bring home after a trip to Paris in July!

15. Find A Rooftop Bar (Terrasse)

With the warm weather and the long days, Paris in July is the perfect time to sit on a rooftop terrace. Here are a few suggestions:

Bar à Bulles in Montmartre is a hidden rooftop terrace tucked away behind the Moulin Rouge

• Location: 4 Cité Veron, 75018 Paris

Le Perchoir Marais is located in the trendy Marais district. Great views. Prepare to line up.

• Location: 33 rue de la Verrerie, 75004 Paris

Terrass Restaurant and Bar perched atop the Terrass Hotel in Montmartre, this bar offers sweeping views over Paris including the Eiffel Tower.

• Location: 12- 14 rue Joseph de Maistre, 75018 Paris

Perruche is located on the rooftop of the iconic Printemps Department Store and offers panoramic views over Paris including the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum.

• Location: Printemps de l’Homme, 2 rue du Havre, 9th floor, 75009 Paris

16. Enjoy The Banks Of The Seine River

It was one walk. Along the banks of the Seine River one summer evening that left me wanting more. The joie de vivre and an overwhelming sense of connected community was intoxicating. Couples, families, lovers and friends shared champagne and a delectable feast from the local shops.

The Seine is the heartbeat of Paris. Stroll. Observe. Have a picnic. It’s truly one of the best Paris experiences.

17. Head To Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris is one of the most popular day trips from Paris. July is peak season so expect crowds and line ups. But can that take away from the magic of Disney? The best days of the week to visit Disneyland Paris are Tuesdays and Thursdays. The weather at Disneyland Paris in July is similar to Paris.

Here are some great planning tips for Disneyland Paris.

Buy your tickets in advance for Disneyland.

I hope your visit to Paris in July makes the best memories.

Until next time,