Spring in Paris is literally divine. Henry Miller said it perfectly, “When spring comes to Paris the humblest mortal alive must feel that he dwells in paradise.”
And what is that spring in Paris song? Cole Porter had it right in 1953 with his hit song, I love Paris in the Springtime (J’aime Paris au printemps). I’m immediately humming. Spring in Paris, in my opinion, is the best time to visit the City of Love.
Key Questions
What is spring like in Paris?
Spring in Paris is the most glorious season. Spring blossoms colour the city and the fragrance of cherry blossoms and roses is magnificent. The days are long, the weather is lovely, and especially in early spring there are fewer crowds. Spring in Paris is the perfect time to visit the city to see the famous landmarks and discover hidden gems.
When is spring in Paris?
In 2024, spring in Paris starts on Wednesday, March 20, and ends on Thursday, June 20.
Here’s The Best Of Spring In Paris 2024
1. Spring In Paris Weather
Spring in Paris runs from Wednesday, March 20, 2024, to Thursday, June 20, 2024. With the spring season being three full months, Paris’s spring weather varies quite a bit. Mornings and evenings can be a bit chilly with daytime highs on sunny days feeling glorious.
| Month | Minimum | Max Temp. | Rain |
| March | 4°C |39°F | 12°C |54°F | 35mm |1.4in |
| April | 6°C |43°F | 16°C |61°F | 42mm |1.7in |
| May | 10°C |50°F | 20°C |68°F | 57mm |2.2in |
| June | 13°C |55°F | 23°C |73°F | 59mm |2.3in |
With the weather so changeable these days, don’t be surprised by spring temperatures out of the normal range! In 2021 for example, the end of March and beginning of April saw record-breaking temperatures reaching 78.8ËšF (26ËšC). A week later there was a cold snap that saw snow flurries and frost. That’s spring weather in Paris. Be prepared for all kinds of weather!
One of my favorite things about the spring season in Paris is the long days. The average day length in March is 12 hours and by June the average length of the day in Paris is 16 hours. It is such a great time of year to soak up all that Paris has to offer.
Pro Travel Tip: Read all about the best things to do in Paris in May 2024
2. Paris In Spring: What To Wear
The spring weather in Paris is variable so pack clothes that you can wear in layers. Bring comfortable walking shoes as strolling in Paris is the best way to get to know the city. You might even want to try to flâner as the French do. Bring an umbrella.
In March and early April, the wind can be quite cold. Pack a light jacket or trench coat that can be layered with a warm sweater. Bring gloves.
Despite the warm weather in May, I have noticed that Parisians do not go bare-legged. There are many times when I have bared my legs and noticed that Parisians are wearing jeans (I’d be boiling) and, of course, stockings. Parisian women love their stockings.
3. Spring Time Holidays In Paris And France
Holidays are everything to the French. Honestly. Don’t mess with their holidays. Springtime is the top season for holidays. In fact, with so many holidays in May, some people wonder if it is a good time to visit Paris. I say, “Yes.”
If you are in France, public holidays, bank holidays or statutory holidays are called a Jour Ferié. This means that businesses will be closed.
The other French phrase you may hear tossed around is “faire le pont.” The French “faire le pont” when they add extra holiday days to extend a public holiday. For example, many French take holidays between May 1 and 8 and also since Ascension falls on a Thursday, many will take Friday off as well.
Easter 2024: Good Friday: Friday, March 29; Easter: Sunday, March 31, (public holiday/ jour ferié); Easter Monday: Monday, April 1, 2024, (public holiday/ jour ferié)
Good Friday is not a bank holiday in France. But Easter Monday is a bank holiday in France. 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.
Don’t forget to browse all the exquisite Easter treats in the chocolate shops and pâtisseries. Did you notice the chocolate bells alongside the chocolate eggs?
April Fool’s Day – Poisson d’Avril: Monday, April 1, 2024
In 2024, Easter Monday AND April Fools Day fall on April 1! For April Fools, fish of all sorts are found in the chocolate shops. They come in all sizes and are wrapped in beautiful foil. Also, don’t be surprised if someone sticks a paper fish to your back as a prank on April 1! The French love a good prank on April Fools Day.
Paris School Spring Holidays: April 7 to 21, 2024 France is divided into three zones for school holidays so that the entire country is not on holiday at once. Paris schools are in Zone C.
Labour Day and May Day: Wednesday, May 1, 2024 (public holiday/ jour ferié) Yes, there are two celebrations on May 1 in France. On Labour Day or International Workers Day, all workers must legally have a paid day off from work. Expect demonstrations (manifestations) around the city.
May Day (La Fête de Mugeut) is celebrated by giving a little pot or bouquet of Muguet (lily of the valley) to your loved ones and friends. Lily of the Valley fills the florist shops and is sold on street corners.
VE Day (Victory in Europe Day): May 8, 2024 (public holiday/ jour ferié) This important day marks the official end of WWII.
Ascension Day: Thursday, May 9, 2024 (public holiday/ jour ferié) This day commemorates the ascension of Jesus into heaven. It always falls on a Thursday, 40 days after Easter.
Pentecost: Sunday, May 19, 2024 Pentecost (Whitsunday) falls exactly 50 days after Easter. It is a day that Christians celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Pentecost Monday: Monday, May 20, 2024 (public holiday/ jour ferié) Pentecost Monday (Whit Monday) is the public holiday on the Monday following Whit Sunday.
Mother’s Day: Sunday, May 26, 2024 I think you know this one! Note the date is different from that in North America.
Father’s Day: Sunday, June 16, 2024 And this one too!
4. Chase The Springtime Blooms
Spring time in Paris sees the French capital burst into a breathtaking display of blooms. Pink and white magnolias and cherry blossoms fill the air with glorious scents. Lilac-coloured wisteria cascades over stone walls and the stunning Pierre de Ronsard Roses make an appearance. Manicured gardens bloom with colourful arrays of tulips, daffodils, and rhododendrons. Chestnut trees burst into bloom with trees laden with pink or white flowers. Head on over to Canal Saint-Martin to enjoy the majestic chestnuts lining the canal. Oh yes, spring time in Paris is a wonderful time to visit.
Where To Find The Best Spring Blossoms in Paris is a complete guide to discovering all the great places to track down your favourite spring flowers. From the Palais Royal and its fourteen magnolia trees to the Champ de Mars by the Eiffel Tower, to the Tuileries Garden, you’ll be enthralled by the magical atmosphere of Paris in full bloom.
If you are obsessed with cherry blossom trees, why not head to the Parc de Sceaux (one hour from Paris) to see over 150 Sakura trees flowering in April?
5. See The Famous Landmarks
Springtime is shoulder season in Paris. Especially early spring. It’s the perfect time to visit the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum and see the Mona Lisa with fewer people!
If you only have a short time in Paris, I would recommend buying your tickets in advance. Try this Skip the Line ticket or this one to the Louvre.
6. Walk The Neighbourhoods
One of the best things to do in Paris in the spring is to walk, wander, and, as the French do, “flâner.” Stroll and observe. Perhaps start on islands in the Seine River. Or in Paris’s iconic neighbourhoods.
Enjoy Spring in Paris by Strolling the Islands:
Ile Saint-Louis: One of the oldest villages in Paris, you’ll always find some street music here, the perfect café to sit at and Paris’s famous ice cream store.
Ile de la Cité: This island has so many treasures. Notre Dame Cathedral, although under reconstruction after the fire of 2019, is still a marvel to see. And don’t miss the Conciergerie, Ste. Chapelle and the Royal Square Place Dauphine.
Ile aux Cygnes: Further down the Seine, this man-made island has a replica of the Statue of Liberty.
Explore Paris’s Neighbourhoods:
Spend time exploring Montmartre, one of my favourite areas in Paris. See Sacré-Coeur and also the hidden treasures of this quartier. Join a guided walking tour of Montmartre and see all its hidden gems!
Wander the tiny boutique-filled streets of le Marais. You’ll pass gorgeous old mansions (hôtels particuliers) and don’t miss the stunning royal square called Place des Vosges.
Paris’s Latin Quarter is one of the oldest and most charming areas to wander.
Saint Germain des Prés is like Paris in the movies. Don’t miss the delightful quartier when visiting Paris.
Explore the hip area around Canal Saint-Martin. Stroll the quays, cross the bridges under the chestnut trees and watch barges navigate the locks. Oh… and don’t forget to have a picnic and visit one of my favourite bakeries.
Flâner around Montparnasse. Head up the Montparnasse Tower for amazing views over Paris, visit the Catacombs and then stay in the area and explore. There are many treasures in the 14th arrondissement.
And if you love the village feel and street art, explore the Butte aux Cailles. This tucked-away neighbourhood in Paris’s 13th arrondissement is a delight to stroll.
7. Visit Paris’s Beautiful Parks
The parks in Paris are an integral part of Parisian life. The classic green metal chairs and fountains are a gathering place for Parisians. Remember that Parisians live in apartments making their green spaces an important part of their everyday life. Springtime in Paris sees flowering trees along with stunning flower beds. Daffodils and hyacinths start the season!
Close to the Seine River, wander in the Jardin des Tuileries and the Jardin de Palais-Royal. Sit by the fountains and enjoy the blooming magnolia trees.
Don’t miss the Luxembourg Gardens! You might want to sail a boat in the fountain! Or the exquisite roses at Parc de Bagatelle.
Other favourite parks include the Jardin des Plantes, Parc Monceau, and Parc des Buttes-Chaumont.
Why not try strolling along the Coulée Verte, the abandoned railway that became an urban walkway in Paris, inspiring New York’s Highline? You’ll pass gorgeous architecture, rose gardens, lime trees and parks just perfect for a picnic. When you arrive at the Bois de Vincennes, be sure to visit the Parc Floral de Paris. Paris in spring is a showstopper when the blossoms arrive!
8. Spring In Paris: Find The Water
One of the essential things to do in Paris in spring is find the water! I love the sea. Living in Paris, two waterways have become my sea.
The banks of the Seine River are the place to be during the spring in Paris. Bring a picnic. Bring a bottle of wine and sit as the Parisians do with a crusty baguette and your friends. (Notice that the baguette came first!) Take a Seine River cruise giving you a different perspective on Paris’s landmarks. Try an evening dinner cruise timed perfectly with the Eiffel Tower glittering.
Bring your walking shoes! In my experience, once I start walking the banks of the Seine River I always go further than expected.
Stand on the bridges over Canal Saint-Martin and watch the boats pass through the locks. Water lovers will love the activities on the Canal de l’Ourq in the 19th arrondissement.
9. Spring 2024: Paris Festivals & Special Events
The Paris Marathon: Sunday. April 7, 2024: Stand on the sidelines and cheer the runners on or, lace up and join in!
Nuit des Musées: Saturday, May 18, 2024: The Night of the Museums is a great event. Many museums are free and open until midnight. There are jazz quartets, light displays, and an incredibly festive and artsy vibe. Which of these museums will you visit?
Taste of Paris: Thursday, May 9 to Sunday, 12, 2024: This four-day festival takes place at the Grand Palais. Taste the most delicious food in Paris at pop-up restaurants. Mmmm… Make sure you book your ticket in advance for this popular event.
Saint-Germain Jazz Festival: Monday, May 13 to Tuesday, May 21, 2024: Who doesn’t love a little jazz in central Paris? Jazz is performed in cafés, churches and museums. Buy your tickets in advance.
The French Open At Stade Roland Garros: Monday, May 20 to Sunday, June 9, 2024: The French Open happens here in Paris on clay courts. It’s the only Grand Slam tennis event to take place on clay.
La Fête de la Musique: Friday, June 21, 2024: I’ve experienced La Fête de la Musique in Paris, Aix-en-Provence and La Réole, France. It is a highlight of spring in Paris and springtime in France. On the longest day of the year, music is everywhere. It fills the streets, floats out of cafés and bars and sees people dancing in the streets until all hours.
10. The Springtime Markets
One of the best things about spring in Paris is the array of fresh fruits and vegetables at the markets. When the springtime produce starts to appear in the markets, I start to gawk! White asparagus and fresh, plump artichokes catch my attention but the prize winner? It’s the early strawberries. The elongated, delicate and rather expensive sweet strawberries called “gariguettes” are a sure sign of spring in Paris.
Visit the markets in Paris. Just remember not to touch the fruit and vegetables. Line up. Wait your turn and the vendor will select the produce for you.
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 good idea is to visit the most famous Paris flea market. It’s an experience you won’t forget! Read here about how to visit Saint-Ouen and Le Marché des Puces.
11. Warmer Weather = Ice Cream Time!
Spring in Paris is the perfect time to search out delectable Ice cream! In Paris, you’ll find the creamy classic flavours and artisanal combinations of flavours you never dreamed of. It’s a tasty journey sampling the best ice cream in Paris. Here are the best ice cream shops in Paris. Enjoy!!
12. Springtime in Paris: Take A Day Trip
Paris is in a great location for taking day trips. Here is my article on 19 Day Trips from Paris.
Ideal day trips from Paris in the springtime are:
- Parc de Sceaux: see the magnificent cherry blossoms in April
- Giverny – see the gardens of Monet – open March 29, 2024, through November 1, 2024
- Auvers-sur-Oise – the charming town where Vincent van Gogh painted his last 70 paintings
- The Palace of Versailles Рplan your day trip to Versailles or choose from this curated list of organised day tours from Paris to the Ch̢teau of Versailles
- The Loire Valley – choose from one of these day trips to the stunning Loire Valley castles
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)
Read More | 25 Key Travel Tips For Paris. Here are the best Paris experiences to have and where to more than 40 hidden gems in Paris. Only have a short time in Paris? Try this One Day in Paris Itinerary. If you want to find the charms of secret Paris, find them in my eBook, Paris for the Curious Stroller.
Book Tickets In Advance
Spring in Paris requires tickets to be booked in advance for the most popular attractions. 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 a skip-the-line guided tour of Versailles and Disneyland!
Where To Stay In Paris: Hotels & Apartments
Hotels in Paris – Top Places To Stay
Read my arrondissement guide to decide where to stay and then check out these hotels.
- Here are 13 Affordable Hotels in Paris
- Find Boutique hotels in the Marais
- Choose a hotel with an Eiffel Tower view
Fancy staying in an apartment in le Marais? This stylish apartment sleeps up to 6 people right in the heart of le Marais. This one-bedroom apartment is in the perfect location for exploring le Marais. How about being apartment neighbours with the Eiffel Tower?
I absolutely adore spring in Paris. What is your favourite thing about spring in Paris?
Until next time,
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