Paris In October: 17 Best Things To Do

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You know by now that I love Paris in every month! Paris in October is a captivating experience with its beautiful autumnal colours and fewer crowds than in the summer. It’s the perfect month to explore Paris. Stroll by the Seine River, marvel at orange and golden hues and adjust your scarf just-so to keep warm from the cool breezes.

Travel Planning For Paris France In October

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)

Weather In Paris In October

“Will it be cold in Paris in October?” is a question I am often asked. The average temperature in Paris in October ranges from daytime highs of 61 °F (16°C) to evening lows of 49 °F (10 °C). October in Paris receives more rainfall than in September with an average of 0.98in (25mm).

The beginning of the fall season in Paris can be very summer-like. It is a great time for walking and exploring. Paris in late October tends to be cooler than the beginning of the month. Don’t discount the wind. I often find that the breezes in Paris are quite chilly. And don’t be surprised to see Parisians wearing their down jackets in October in Paris.

Visiting Paris in October, travellers will notice the days getting shorter! Sunrise in Paris at the beginning of October is at 7:49 a.m., while sunset is at 7:30 p.m. With the clocks moving backwards one hour on October 29, 2023, October days in Paris become shorter. Sunrise is at 7:35 a.m. and suddenly sunset in Paris in October is much earlier at 5:30 p.m.

Paris In October What To Wear?

In October, it is a good idea to pack clothes that can be worn in layers, as the fall weather in Paris ranges from warm to chilly. I find that by October in Paris my jeans have made a comeback. How about pairing your jeans with a stylish blazer? This is always a versatile and chic look in Paris. Dress your jeans and blazer up with a silk scarf!

For outer layers be sure to pack a trenchcoat which can be layered with a warm sweater. Definitely bring a compact umbrella to Paris in October. Bring comfortable walking shoes as strolling in Paris is the best way to get to know the city.

Bring 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 In October

No matter the season, hotels in Paris book up quickly. Paris in October is no different. Book well in advance.

Affordable Hotels: 13 Affordable Hotels in Paris

Boutique Hotels: These fabulous Boutique hotels in the Marais.

In Le Marais: The Hotel Bourg Tibourg in the Marais.

Near the Arc de Triomphe: The stylish 4-star Hotel Keppler

With an Eiffel Tower View: This 3-star Hotel with excellent reviews

Near the Louvre: The charming 4-star Relais du Louvre

On the Left Bank in Saint-Germain des Prés: Hôtel des Académies et des Arts

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

Paris In October: The Holidays

School Holidays: School holidays start in Paris and France on October 21, 2023, and run until November 6, 2023.

Celebrations And Events In October In Paris

The Rugby World Cup 2023:

Calling all rugby fans! Paris and France are hosting the Rugby World Cup in 2023. It runs from September 8, 2023, to October 28 2023. The final match is on October 28 at the Stade de France in Paris – Saint-Denis.

Eiffel Tower and Breast Cancer Awareness Month: October 1, 2023

The Eiffel Tower twinkles in pink once a year on October 1. It kicks off Breast Cancer Awareness Month with a pink celebration. Head to the Champ de Mars where you will find festivities, including a fashion show with breast cancer survivors on the runway.

Jazz sur Seine: October 6 to October 21, 2023

The Paris Jazz Club is in its 12th season with the fantastic 2023 two-week jazz festival in Paris.

Nuit Blanche (White Night…Sleepless) in Paris: October 7, 2023

On the first Saturday of October when night falls, Paris welcomes you to explore the city with free concerts, exhibits and open museums. The metro runs until 2 am.

Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival (La Fête des Vendanges): October 11 -15, 2023

This 4-day Paris festival is back this fall from October 11 – 15, 2023. The Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival celebrates the grape harvest and wine production from the little, ancient vineyard in Montmartre. This is a popular event with wine tasting, tours of the vineyard (book in advance), and 1500 bottles of wine auctioned off for local charities.

Foire Internationale d’Art Contemporain (FIAC): October 19 -22, 2023

The Foire Internationale d’Art Contemporain (FIAC) is the largest art fair in France. One of my favourite parts of this Contemporary Art Festival is the large-scale sculptures and works that end up on display in public places like Place Vendome and the Tuileries Gardens. Art is also on display at the Petit Palais.

Hallowe’en at Disneyland Paris: October 1 – November 5, 2023

From October 1 – November 5, Disneyland Paris is all decked out for Hallowe’en. Check out a one-day entry ticket here or a one-day flexible entry ticket here.

Read all the details on how to make the most of Disneyland Paris.

Salon du Chocolat: October 28 – November 1, 2023

The world’s most famous chocolate event, Salon du Chocolat, runs from October 28 – November 1, 2023. Calling all gourmands… for someone who loves pâtisseries, I can’t miss an event dedicated to chocolate and cocoa!

Things To Do In Paris In October 2023

1. Find Colourful Fall Foliage

In October in Paris, the summer fades away and a cool breeze sweeps through the charming streets. Paris becomes even more beautiful draped in yellow and orange hues.

Here are some of my favourite places to find captivating fall foliage in Paris in October.

• Jardin of the Palais Royal
• Jardin du Luxembourg
• Père Lachaise Cemetery
• Jardin des Tuileries
• Parc des Buttes Chaumont
• The old railway line of La Coulée Verte
• The gardens of the Parc de Bagatelle
• Canal Saint Martin

Photographers will be in heaven in autumn in Paris!

2. Paris In October: Enjoy The Islands

One of my favourite, “go-to” places in Paris is the Seine River but more specifically Ile Saint-Louis. With its narrow cobblestone streets, elegant 17th-century buildings, and quaint boutiques, Île Saint-Louis provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of modern Paris. I love sitting at the tip of the island and watching the Seine River traffic cruise by.

Wander over to Ile de la Cité, which is often referred to as the birthplace of Paris. With its iconic landmarks, such as Notre Dame Cathedral, and historical significance, Ile de la Cité never disappoints.

Book your Timed Entry Ticket well in advance to see the spectacular Sainte Chapelle.

Ile aux Cygnes, Paris’s third island, is much further down the Seine River. This man-made island is known for its variety of trees and has the largest replica of the Statue of Liberty found in Paris.

3. Visit An Outdoor Market

Fall in Paris sees chestnuts everywhere and fresh figs galore. Mushrooms of every shape and colour spill from market baskets befuddling the traveller with how to cook them up. I’ve had my share of the delicate, golden, floral-shaped girolles, also known as oyster mushrooms. They are fantastic in an omelette. Sauté a pan full of cèpes or porcini mushrooms and delight in their nutty flavour. I swear a fairy could live under some of the enormous cèpes I’ve seen in the markets!

The oysters are back. I’ll never forget the chat I had with a market vendor who gave me the rundown on freshwater oysters, the saltwater ones and the Gillardeau, the king of the oysters. Here’s how to eat oysters like the French!

Apples appear in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Have you ever tried a Comice or a Louise-Bonne? Look for the golden pear-shaped coing (quince). My French friends love to make quince jam. Have you ever heard of potiron? You’ll see plenty of this orange squash at markets in October in Paris. Used in a variety of ways, you’ll definitely find potiron soup on fall menus.

Be sure to stop by the cheese stall. If you love cheese, here’s the low down on some of the very best ones to savour while in France.

You might want to visit the Marché des Enfants Rouges, the oldest covered market in Paris. It’s been around since 1615. Read more about it here.

Another grand idea is to visit one of Paris’s flea markets. It’s an experience you won’t forget! Read here about how to visit Le Marché des Puces.

Pro Travel Tip: Remember when visiting the markets in Paris not to touch the fruits and vegetables. Line up. Wait your turn and the vendor will select the produce for you.

4. Climb The Eiffel Tower In October In Paris

The Eiffel Tower, the iconic symbol of Paris, offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views over the city. Standing at a height of 1063 feet (324 meters), the Eiffel Tower provides an unparalleled vantage point to admire the grandeur and charm of Paris from above. Just imagine in October in Paris, where the views will be coloured in hues of amber and orange.

Get to the top of the Eiffel Tower with direct access to the summit by elevator.

5. Flâner In Paris In October

Why not embrace your inner Parisian and flâner as the French do around Paris? Embracing this quintessential art of roaming around, deliberately aimless, just observing life is a classic way to visit Paris in October. Pick a sunny day (or flâner with your umbrella) and wander through one of Paris’s famous neighbourhoods, kicking up some leaves as you go!

Start your wandering in Paris in one of these neighbourhoods:

• le Marais – Place des Vosges, gorgeous mansions, shopping…
• The Latin Quarter – iconic left bank Paris
• Saint Germain des Prés – iconic left bank Paris
• Montmartre – Sacré Coeur, staircases and oozing charm…
• the 7th arrondissement – Eiffel Tower & views, La Grande Epicierie…

Or start to flâner on one of these Paris streets.

6. Get Off The Beaten Path In Paris

Beyond the iconic landmarks and well-trodden tourist routes lies a hidden Paris waiting to be explored. From charming neighbourhoods to lesser-known cultural gems, Paris is bursting with off-the-beaten-path attractions. Here are some of my favourite places to explore:

• Explore the hip area around Canal Saint-Martin
• Flâner around the 14th arrondissment in Montparnasse
• If you love the village feel and street art, explore the Butte aux Cailles in Paris’s 13th arrondissement

If you want to find the charms of secret Paris, find them in my eBook, Paris for the Curious Stroller.

7. Visit A Museum

A trip to Paris almost always includes one of the city’s renowned museums. From the iconic Louvre Museum (get your Timed Entry Ticket here) to lesser-known gems like the Rodin Museum or one of my favourites, The Cluny Museum, Paris is truly a haven for museum enthusiasts.

Passionate museum-goers will love the 2,4, or 6-day Paris Museum Pass.

A Few New Exhibitions In The Fall Of 2023:

Musée d’Orsay: Louis Janmot: The Poem of Soul – September 12, 2023, to January 7, 2024

Musée de l’Orangerie: Amedeo Modigliani. A Painter and His Dealer – Sept. 20, 2023, to Jan. 15, 2024

Musée de Luxembourg: Gertrude Stein and Pablo Picasso: The Invention of Language – Sept. 13, 2023, to Jan.28, 2024

Read More | My guide to 20 Paris museums.

8. Take A Seine Cruise

Taking a cruise along the iconic Seine River is an unforgettable experience that allows travellers to immerse themselves in the charm and beauty of Paris. It’s a fabulous way to admire the city’s most renowned landmarks from a different perspective. Will you time your Seine River cruise to be on the water when the Eiffel Tower sparkles in the evening light on the hour for 5 minutes?

Sit back and take a cruise down the Seine. Try an evening dinner cruise timed perfectly with the Eiffel Tower glittering.

9. Visit Monet’s Garden In Giverny

Nestled in the heart of Normandy, France, lies a picturesque village that comes alive with vibrant colours during the autumn season. Giverny, renowned for its connection to the legendary Impressionist artist Claude Monet, is glorious in its fall hues of gold, crimson, and amber. Wander through Monet’s Japanese Gardens, past the water lily ponds, the incredible garden, and through Monet’s home. It’s one of the most perfect October day trips from Paris.

Monet’s Gardens are open through November 1, 2023.

Read More | Giverny France: How To Spend the Perfect Day

Take A Guided Tour From Paris to Giverny: This tour takes you directly there.

10. Celebrate The Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival

The Festival of the Vendanges in Montmartre is an annual 4-day celebration that captures the vibrant spirit of this iconic neighbourhood in Paris. It was the Montmartre residents, who decades ago, fought to save this tiny, historic vineyard from a housing development project. Today the vineyard produces about 1500 bottles of wine that are auctioned off for local charities.

Head to the heart of Bohemian Paris to participate in this lively wine harvest festival featuring music, wine tasting, and tours of the vineyard (book in advance).

The Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival runs from October 11 – 15, 2023

11. Savour Chocolate At The Salon du Chocolat

Calling all chocolate lovers. The Salon du Chocolat in Paris, renowned as the world’s largest chocolate event, is a haven for chocoholics. This annual exhibition brings together chocolatiers, pastry chefs, cocoa experts, and chocolate lovers from around the world.

With its enticing array of delectable treats, immersive workshops where you can sample the incredible final products, and awe-inspiring displays such as chocolate carvings and fountains, the Salon du Chocolat offers a fantastic experience that celebrates all things chocolate.

12. Spend A Day At The Château de Chantilly

If you are looking for a fairytale-like setting not too far from Paris why not plan a day trip from Paris to the Domaine de Chantilly? The Domaine de Chantilly includes the Château de Chantilly, the glorious grounds, and the Grand Stables. The Château de Chantilly has a remarkable art collection in the musée de Condé and its rooms are opulent. Photographers will love capturing the reflection of the castle in the pond. Leave ample time to explore the gardens and take in an equestrian show. Rumour has it that crème de Chantilly (Chantilly cream) originated here so be sure to taste some crème Chantilly.

Book your skip-the-line ticket to Château de Chantilly

Read More | How To Plan the best day trip to Chantilly.

13. Plan A Fall Picnic In Paris In October

Watch the weather. The minute a warm day is forecast, plan your picnic along the banks of the Seine. What better way to immerse oneself in the charm of Paris than by indulging in a delightful picnic? With its iconic landmarks as a backdrop and an array of delectable food options at your disposal, a picnic in Paris offers an unforgettable experience.

Keep your picnic simple. Stop by a boulangerie and buy a crusty baguette for your picnic. Bring a bottle of wine and a selection of cheeses from the fromagerie.

14. Sip French Wine On A Wine Tasting Tour

For wine enthusiasts and novices alike, a wine-tasting tour in Paris promises to be a delightful journey through the world of French viticulture. Whether you are seeking an introduction to the art of wine tasting or hoping to expand your knowledge about different grape varieties, Paris is the perfect place to sample wine! Why not try this wine-tasting experience with a sommelier or this tasting workshop that includes cheese and wine?

15. October In Paris: Pedal Along The Pathways

While there are numerous ways to explore Paris, one of the most fun and immersive experiences is taking a bike tour. With its extensive network of bicycle lanes and mostly flat terrain, Paris offers an ideal setting for cyclists to discover hidden gems as well as iconic landmarks. Embarking on a bike tour in Paris promises an unforgettable adventure. Why not try this 3-hour Paris highlights tour or this charming Nooks and Crannies bike tour?

16. Partake In Halloween At Disneyland Paris

If you love dressing up for Halloween, cobwebs, ghosts, and all things spooky, October in Paris is the perfect month to hop on the RER A and visit Disneyland Paris.

From October 1 – November 5, Disneyland Paris is all decked out for Hallowe’en. If hanging out with Cruella de Vil in Paris (does she speak French?) is on your bucket list, don’t miss the grand Halloween party on October 31! Check out a one-day entry ticket here or a one-day flexible entry ticket here.

Read all the details on how to make the most of Disneyland Paris.

17. Plan A Trip To Champagne Country

As October rolls around, this picturesque and historic region beckons visitors with its rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and of course, its world-renowned champagne. The champagne harvest is in and the vineyards in the fields are turning colour. Whether you are a connoisseur or a novice looking to refine your champagne palate, October is an ideal time to explore Champagne’s vineyards, cellars, and charming towns.

This day trip from Paris to Champagne country includes 8 wine tastings! This day tour includes lunch and visits to two vineyards near Reims.

I can’t wait! It’s on my list for October 2023!

I hope you enjoy Paris in October as much as I do.

Until next time,