Are you planning a trip to Paris in August and wondering if anything will be open? August is typically known as the month when Parisians flee the city for their summer vacations, leaving many shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions closed.
However, this doesn’t mean that everything shuts down completely. Let’s explore what you can expect to find open in Paris during the month of August.
Tourist Attractions
Many of the popular tourist attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral remain open throughout August. However, it’s important to note that these places may have reduced hours or be closed on certain days. It’s always a good idea to check their websites for updated information before heading out.
The Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is open every day in August from 9:00 am to midnight. However, during peak season (July and August), it’s highly recommended to book your tickets in advance online to avoid long lines.
The Louvre Museum
The Louvre Museum is closed on Tuesdays but remains open every other day of the week including weekends. The museum operates on its usual hours of 9:00 am to 6:00 pm except on Wednesdays and Fridays when it stays open until 9:45 pm.
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Since the devastating fire in April 2019 that destroyed much of Notre-Dame Cathedral’s roof and spire, parts of the cathedral remain closed for repairs. However, visitors can still access the main nave and choir area while work continues on other parts of the building.
Restaurants
While many restaurants close down for their summer break in August, there are still plenty that remain open. You may find that some of your favorite dining spots are closed, so it’s best to check in advance. As a general rule, restaurants in tourist areas and those that cater to locals tend to stay open.
Le Comptoir du Relais
Le Comptoir du Relais is a popular bistro located in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood. It’s known for its classic French cuisine and lively atmosphere. The restaurant is open every day during August for lunch and dinner.
L’Avant Comptoir
L’Avant Comptoir is a tiny standing-room-only bar with delicious small plates located near Le Comptoir du Relais. It’s open every day during August from midday until midnight.
Shops
Many shops, especially small boutiques and family-run businesses, close for several weeks during August. However, larger chain stores and department stores remain open. In tourist areas such as the Champs-Élysées, most shops stay open throughout the summer months.
Galeries Lafayette
Galeries Lafayette is a famous department store located near the Opera Garnier. It features high-end fashion brands, beauty products, and gourmet food items. The store remains open every day during August from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.
Les Halles
Les Halles is an underground shopping mall located in the heart of Paris near the Pompidou Center. It features a wide variety of shops including clothing stores, electronics stores, and restaurants. The mall is open every day during August from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.
Conclusion
While many places do close down for their summer break in Paris during August, there are still plenty of things to see and do in this beautiful city. As long as you plan ahead and check opening hours before you go, you can have a great time exploring the city’s popular tourist attractions, dining at delicious restaurants, and shopping at some of its finest stores.