The Eiffel Tower. The Louvre. Notre Dame. The Sacré-Cœur. Welcome to the City of Light.
A trip to Paris is always an unforgettable experience. You’ll feast on French cuisine, stroll past iconic landmarks every hour and enjoy French culture at its best. But when is the best time to visit Paris? Let’s find out.
Explore The City of Light
Perfect at any time of year
Paris is always worth it. Whether you’re after a romantic break, world-class food, unforgettable sightseeing or art galleries and museums galore, you’ll find it all in Paris. Think of Paris as a mosaic of intriguing neighborhoods all with their own distinct feel, look and vibe. You can spend hours wandering the city and discovering new corners, cool cafes and interesting restaurants. Paris has something for everyone and is perfect at any time of year. Summer is busy, winter is quieter and spring and autumn offer cooler temperatures ideal for sightseeing.
When is the best time to visit Paris
Paris is one of the most iconic and famous cities anywhere in the world. There are world-renowned landmarks, whether the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum or the Arc de Triomphe. It’s packed with museums and art galleries as well as shows, gigs and more. Each of its distinct neighborhoods offers unique flavors, architecture and the opportunity to stroll around on foot and take in the city’s beauty. And don’t forget the food, the fashion, and the romance. But when should you come?
Summer is peak tourist season in Paris, which can mean queues at the top attractions. December and January are ideal if you’re travelling on a budget – and one of the best times to avoid the crowds in Paris. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October) are fantastic if you want to do a bit of everything. The crowds are thinner than summer and the temperatures are comfortable for exploring on foot. Relax in the parks, take in a museum or pick up some food at a local market to enjoy a picnic along the Seine. Plus, you’ll see the city in bloom in spring or catch the changing colors in autumn.
What to see in Paris
And when to come
Le Marais (3rd and 4th)
Historically the Jewish quarter, Le Marais is now a vibrant hub home to art galleries, trendy boutiques and charming cafes. It’s also close to Notre Dame, the Louvre and streets fringing the Seine. Any time of year is ideal to visit, but spring and autumn offer the perfect temperatures for strolling the pretty streets.
Canal Saint-Martin (10th)
Wander along the tree-lined towpaths of the canal for hipster and bohemian Paris. Where crumbling warehouses once stood, you’ll now find hip restaurants, art galleries, vintage shops and independent cafes. Summer and early autumn are the best times to visit. Picnic by the canal, enjoy outdoor cafes and soak up the laid-back atmosphere.
Belleville (19th & 20th)
This former working-class neighborhood has seen much in the way of gentrification in recent years. It’s full of street art, working-class charm, lovely views and cafes, and has a burgeoning food scene pioneered by its community of immigrants. Come in spring and autumn to discover the street art, enjoy the lively Parc de Belleville, and experience the neighborhood’s unique energy.
Montmartre (18th)
Arguably Paris’ prettiest neighborhood, Montmartre is home to the iconic Sacré-Cœur, charming cafes, stunning views and streets smothered in vines of ivy and wisteria. We love the literary museum of Musee de la Vie Romantique and its surrounding rose bushes. A visit here at any time of year is always worth it, but come in spring or autumn to avoid the summer crowds and enjoy the colors of the changing seasons.
Latin Quarter (5th & 6th)
This lively quarter, once filled with art studios and now packed with lovely bookstores and traditional cafes, is also home to Sorbonne University and serves as the academic hub of the city. Don’t miss the botanical garden and the Pantheon. Come year-round to immerse yourself in the academic atmosphere, browse the bookstores, and enjoy the historic ambiance.
The 7th
Right in the center of the action in Paris, with some of the top sights on your doorstep, including the Eiffel Tower and a wide selection of museums like the Musée d’Orsay (home to Monets and Renoirs) and the Musée Rodin. Visit in autumn or winter for less crowds at the tower and the chance to wander the museums in peace.
Paris Hotels
Where to stay in Paris
Whether you’re looking for a true Parisian grande dame or a family-friendly option, Paris has hotels to suit all budgets. Here are four of our favorites.
Hôtel Plaza Athénée
A luxurious Parisian hotel
Immerse yourself in Parisian charm at the luxurious Hôtel Plaza Athénée. Located on a beautiful tree-lined avenue, this hotel boasts stunning décor, exquisite dining options, and a relaxing wellness sanctuary.
Le Bristol Paris
A little luxury
Just steps away from Champs Elysées and La Madeleine Place, enjoy a rooftop swimming pool with views of the Eiffel Tower and a 120 square meter garden. After a day of exploring, relax in the award-winning Spa Le Bristol by La Prairie.
Hôtel de Crillon
Family-friendly
Centrally located, just a 5-minute walk from Champs Elysées, this family-friendly hotel has an indoor pool and fitness center, as well as a kids’ club and babysitting. There are two restaurants and a relaxing spa.
Hôtel Le Six
Budget
This stylish and affordable boutique hotel is located at the heart of Saint Germain-des-Prés. It boasts a fitness center and a spa with a hammam, and is a 5-minute walk from the Luxembourg Gardens and Notre-Dame-des-Champs metro station.
Flying to Paris
Paris has two main international airports. Charles de Gaulle Airport is 25km northeast of Paris and is the largest international airport in France. Orly Airport, located 13km south of Paris, serves as a secondary hub for domestic and overseas territories flights.
Charles de Gaulle
Emirates, Air France, Qatar Airways
Orly Airport
Pegasus Airlines, Qatar Airways
World-renowned museums. A stroll along the Seine. Leafy courtyards. And the food. A trip to Paris is an unforgettable experience at any time of year.
Thinking of traveling to Paris? Skyscanner can help you find the best flights, hotels and car rental deals for your next trip.
