Is Paris Better in Summer or Winter?

By Michael Ferguson

Paris, the City of Love, is a year-round destination that attracts millions of visitors each year. While Paris is a beautiful city that has its charm in all seasons, the question on everyone’s mind is – Is Paris better in summer or winter? Let’s take a closer look at both seasons and find out which one is better.

Summer in Paris

Summer in Paris runs from June to August and is the peak tourist season. The weather is warm, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C on average.

The days are longer, with daylight lasting until around 10 pm. This gives you more time to explore the city’s many attractions, such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.

If you’re a food lover, summer is an excellent time to visit Paris. The outdoor cafes and restaurants spill onto the sidewalks and offer an unforgettable dining experience. You can enjoy a glass of wine while people-watching or have a picnic in one of Paris’ many parks.

Things to Do in Summer

  • Visit Versailles Palace and Gardens
  • Take a Seine River Cruise
  • Attend an outdoor concert or festival
  • Explore Paris by bike or on foot

Winter in Paris

Winter in Paris runs from December to February and is considered off-season for tourism. The weather is cold with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 8°C on average. However, this doesn’t mean that Paris loses its charm during winter.

For starters, winter brings with it Christmas markets that are set up across the city. These markets sell everything from artisanal crafts to delicious food items such as mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.

The city’s many museums and galleries are also less crowded during winter, making it an excellent time to explore them at your own pace. You can also take a stroll along the Seine River or visit one of Paris’ many indoor attractions such as the Catacombs or the Opera Garnier.

Things to Do in Winter

  • Visit Christmas markets
  • Explore indoor attractions such as Musee d’Orsay and Centre Pompidou
  • Take a day trip to Disneyland Paris
  • Enjoy French cuisine in cozy restaurants

The Verdict

So, is Paris better in summer or winter? It depends on what you’re looking for.

Summer is an excellent time to enjoy the warm weather, outdoor dining, and long days. On the other hand, winter is perfect for exploring indoor attractions, Christmas markets, and cozy restaurants.

Ultimately, there’s no wrong time to visit Paris. The city has its charm in all seasons and offers unique experiences throughout the year. Whether you choose summer or winter, one thing is for sure – you’ll fall in love with Paris.