Paris in Might is, definitely, one of the crucial fantastic instances to go to. Town is in full bloom, the times are getting longer, and there’s a vigorous power within the air that’s simply good for exploring.
Having skilled Might in Paris almost twenty instances by now, I can say it’s my favourite time of 12 months right here. The gardens are lush, the occasion calendars full, and each café terrace invitations you to take a seat again and benefit from the spring sunshine.
Whether or not you’re sightseeing or simply taking a stroll, town simply feels good in Might. And on this article, I’ll cowl every part you might want to know to take pleasure in Paris to the fullest.
- Climate data & Packing suggestions
- Seasonal Journey Insights
- Occasions & Issues to Do in Might
Salut, I’m Lena – journey planning professional and parisienne since 2006 🩷
Every thing you Have to Learn about Paris in Might
Might in Paris means sunny spring days, blooming bushes, and longer evenings. Points of interest shift to summer time hours, and whether or not you’re into museums, meals, or festivals, there’s at all times one thing to take pleasure in.
Briefly, Might is among the greatest months to journey to Paris. That mentioned, with 4 financial institution holidays in 2025, Paris attracts extra vacationers than traditional on these lengthy weekends.
Planning your journey upfront is vital to beating the crowds and ensuring you’re not lacking out.
On your comfort, right here’s a listing of sights that promote out the quickest:
But additionally standard excursions like Monet’s Gardens or Montmartre strolling excursions promote out rapidly in Might.
My tip: guide every part you actually wish to see upfront to keep away from disappointment.
How’s the Climate in Might in Paris?
Might is the primary month the place you’re more likely to take pleasure in constantly good days in Paris, with loads of sunshine and nice climate.
On common, you possibly can anticipate temperatures to be gentle, starting from 10°C to 19°C (50°F to 66°F). However don’t be fooled by the stats—the solar is heat in Might, and sunscreen is a should if you happen to’re spending a day outside.
On a aspect be aware, I not too long ago found a model referred to as Supergoop, their sunscreen feels invisible and light-weight— I exploit it after moisturizer and earlier than make-up.Order it right here
Anyway. Whereas there are normally 9 wet days, showers are typically temporary, and the solar usually returns rapidly. However that’s typical for the season, spring climate in Paris is thought for its fast modifications and also you at all times may get just a few drizzles.
Don’t fear an excessive amount of about wet days—it not often rains all day in Paris. However having a Plan B by no means hurts.
Listed here are just a few of my favourite weatherproof issues to do in Paris:
For my full listing of wet day suggestions, check out this text: 27 Greatest Actions for a Wet Day in Paris
How are the Crowds?
Might is peak season in Paris, because of a mix of heat spring climate, thrilling occasions and a number of public holidays that create lengthy weekends.
Each locals and vacationers—French, European, and worldwide—flock to town to reap the benefits of the free days, making it one of many busiest months of the 12 months.
Paris is buzzing with power in Might, and standard sights and points of interest might be crowded. That’s why it’s essential to guide tickets properly upfront for something in your must-see listing.
Under, you discover a listing of landmarks which have both the longest queues or are sometimes sold-out weeks upfront:
The inflow of holiday makers additionally impacts cafés and eating places. So if there’s a specific restaurant or café you’ve been eyeing, it’s sensible to order a desk forward of time to keep away from disappointment.
Listed here are the financial institution holidays in Might 2025:
- Might 1: Labour Day (Fête du Travail)
- Might 8: Victory in Europe Day (Fête de la Victoire)
- Might 29: Ascension Day
What’s open in Paris on Might 1st
If you happen to’re spending Might 1st in Paris, you may surprise what’s open on this necessary vacation. Labour Day is a crucial public vacation in France, and plenty of outlets, eating places, and even main points of interest are closed.
It’s additionally widespread to see marches and demonstrations supporting employees’ rights. However don’t fear—these are peaceable and only a key a part of the day.
To keep away from the frustration of discovering closed doorways, right here’s a listing of issues you possibly can go to on Labour Day 2025 in Paris:
What to put on in Might in Paris?
On your journey to Paris in Might, you possibly can neglect about heat jackets. It’s spring, and the climate in Paris in Might is crammed with loads of sunshine, occasional rain, and maybe chilly mornings and evenings, however no extremes.
To deal with the customarily altering climate, gown in layers. Pack gentle sweaters, possibly a light-weight scarf, and a jacket, but in addition pack t-shirts for hotter afternoons.
Whereas it’s undoubtedly heat when the solar is out, mornings and evenings are sometimes a bit contemporary. So having a sweater and light-weight jacket available will hold you snug.
If you’d like one thing light-weight which you could simply pack up in your purse, however that retains you heat when spending a night on a Parisian terrace, pack a puffer vest (like this one).
You possibly can simply put on it below your regular jacket or as an alternative of your jacket, and it weighs actually nothing.
Moreover, this stuff ought to be in your listing:
In any case, I counsel retaining a detailed eye on the forecast earlier than leaving. It’s doubtless that you just expertise temperatures round 16 levels on common, but it surely’s additionally completely attainable that it’s slightly 26 levels, and you may are available in a full-on summer time outfit!
Greatest 7 Issues to Do in Paris in Might 2025
In 2025, Easter holidays in France might be over by the point Might begins, however the month brings three main financial institution holidays, all falling on Thursdays. This implies lengthy weekends that make Paris extremely busy, with an inflow of French households and European vacationers having fun with prolonged breaks.
As a result of these lengthy weekends, Paris might be buzzing greater than traditional, with points of interest in excessive demand. Well-liked sights just like the Eiffel Tower or Catacombs can guide out weeks upfront, particularly through the excessive season.
Many ticket cubicles could have lengthy queues, and infrequently, tickets should not accessible on the day.
To keep away from lacking out, I strongly advocate planning forward and reserving tickets as early as attainable. It will prevent from hours of ready in line and make sure you don’t miss key experiences.
To make issues simpler and prevent time, right here’s a listing of must-book points of interest earlier than you arrive in Paris:
#1 Discover the Hidden Gems of Paris
Paris is filled with hidden gems and secret points of interest which might be properly value exploring. The sunny spring days of Might are good for wandering by way of non-touristy neighborhoods and discovering Paris off the overwhelmed path. Listed here are just a few of my favourite spots, removed from the crowds:
- Belleville – A unusual neighborhood recognized for its vibrant road artwork and wonderful viewpoints. (Learn extra about Belleville’s road artwork right here)
- Petite Ceinture – An deserted railway reworked right into a peaceable park. (Try my full information
- The Human Zoo – A wonderful park with a haunting historical past as the location of the Colonial Exhibition. (Study why it’s referred to as the “Human Zoo of Paris” )
#2 Go to the Gardens of Monet in Giverny
Best solution to go to: E book a half-day journey to Giverny
Claude Monet, the well-known impressionist painter, spent most of his life within the charming village of Giverny, simply an hour west of Paris. Whilst you could not know the village, you’ve absolutely seen Monet’s beautiful work of his backyard—particularly his iconic water lilies.
Might is the right time to go to Giverny. I visited in Might 2024, and the gardens in full bloom had been completely breathtaking. The gentle climate made the expertise much more pleasing. (I made a Giverny Vlog about it)
The best and quickest solution to get there’s by reserving a tour, which lets you discover the gardens and nonetheless have time to proceed your sightseeing in Paris within the afternoon.
For extra journey suggestions, check out our put up on tips on how to go to Giverny. I clarify intimately tips on how to set up your journey if you wish to go by yourself.
#3 Discover the Greatest Parisian Museums
Save time & Cash: Get the Paris Museums Move
Parisian museums should not solely world-famous, however they’re additionally the right escape on a wet day. Whereas Might usually brings beautiful climate, you’ll doubtless encounter some showers. Both means, visiting just a few museums is a should when in Paris.
If you happen to haven’t already, I like to recommend getting the Paris Museum Move. This all-in-one go grants free entry to over 50 iconic museums and monuments, and it pays for itself if you happen to go to these prime 5 highlights:
You possibly can see the entire listing of advantages right here.
#4 Uncover Montmartre
Click on right here to find out about schedules, costs, and bookings
Montmartre is among the most charming and distinctive areas of Paris. As soon as a village outdoors town gates, Montmartre formally grew to become a part of Paris in 1860 however has saved its village attraction and robust id ever since.
Whereas exploring by yourself is pleasing, you’ll miss out on half of Montmartre’s hidden magic—the anecdotes and tales that make it so particular. It’s undoubtedly value the additional price to be part of a guided strolling tour.
If a guided tour will not be what you’re after, these articles will assist you to discover Montmartre:
My tip for Montmartre is to take lunch at La Maison Rose and afterward have an ice cream at Bachir. The Maison Rose is an establishment within the neighborhood and although it appears to be a wee bit touristic, I loved the meals so much.
Bachir is a Lebanese ice cream parlor with probably the most mouthwatering flavors, topped up with pistachio.
#5 Head up the Tour Saint-Jacques
Get my full customer’s information right here: Tour Saint-Jacques: Paris’ most underrated Viewpoint
Not many individuals know which you could truly go to Tour Saint-Jacques—it’s a hidden gem that hasn’t made its means into most guidebooks but.
I solely found it earlier this 12 months, and I’ve to confess, it’s now my absolute favourite viewpoint in Paris. The tower presents a surprising panorama of town’s rooftops, together with glimpses into the elegant residences alongside Rue de Rivoli.
From the highest, you possibly can spot all of Paris’ iconic sights whereas having fun with a peaceable and uncrowded expertise.
Entry to the tower is just attainable by way of a guided group tour, so it’s greatest to order your spot upfront. The tour itself was wonderful, with loads of fascinating background details about the historical past of the tower and its significance in Paris.
Try extra about this hidden gem and tips on how to go to right here.
#6 Take a Cruise on Canal Saint Martin
Fast & Simple: E book your Parisian Canal Cruise right here
If f you’re after a stress-free solution to discover Paris, away from the massive vacationer crowds, a Cruise on the Canal Saint Martin is ideal for you.
Gliding alongside the waters of the Canal Saint-Martin, you’ll see a completely completely different aspect of Paris—quiet, native, and charming.
You’ll go below picturesque iron footbridges, float by way of hidden tunnels, and watch because the boat navigates the previous locks. It’s nothing like the everyday metropolis hustle.
Try extra particulars and tips on how to guide the cruise right here. I took the cruise myself a short time in the past, and it’s considered one of my private Paris favorites.
As a bit of plus: a ship tour is properly stress-free. Expectantly, you’ve got even a light and sunny spring day in Might and you may sit outdoors and benefit from the solar whereas marveling on the Parisian sceneries.
#7 Go to the Jardin Albert Kahn
Learn my customer’s information right here: Albert Kahn Museum & Gardens: A Hidden Oasis
The Albert Kahn Museum and Gardens is arms one of the crucial fantastic spots in Paris, particularly if you happen to’re visiting in Might. It’s my private favourite backyard in Paris.
Tucked away from the busy metropolis, this place looks like a world of its personal. I’ve been visiting for years, and each time, it’s simply as magical.
The gardens are an absolute dream, however then there’s additionally the museum, the place Kahn’s Archives de la Planète assortment takes you on a journey by way of early Twentieth-century life.
It’s a captivating glimpse into the world because it was being documented by way of pictures and movie.
Get all the main points and tips on how to go to right here.
What’s going on in Paris in Might 2025
You’ll by no means get bored when in Paris, particularly not if you happen to’re touring to Paris in Might. From exhibitions, concert events, and seasonal occasions to holidays and conventional festivities—the Paris occasion calendar will not be letting you catch your breath.
01 Might – Fête de Travail (Labor Day)
On Might 1st, virtually every part in Paris shuts down, together with sights and museums. The Eiffel Tower is among the uncommon exceptions, so if you happen to’re in Paris on today, ensure to guide your Eiffel Tower tickets upfront!
An enthralling custom on today is gifting muguet (lilies of the valley) to girls. You’ll discover distributors throughout town promoting these delicate flowers as a logo of fine luck.
08 Might – Victory Day
Victory Day commemorates the give up of Nazi Germany in 1945, marking the top of World Battle II in Europe. The spotlight of the day is a solemn ceremony the place the President of France lays a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier below the Arc de Triomphe.
The day is primarily about remembrance, you might also discover smaller occasions and ceremonies all through Paris, making it a significant time to be within the metropolis.
08 to 11 Might – Style of Paris
This standard meals competition brings collectively prime cooks, together with Michelin-starred abilities and rising culinary stars, providing guests an opportunity to pattern distinctive dishes in pop-up eating places.
The Style of Paris is a must-attend occasion for meals lovers seeking to expertise the very best of Parisian delicacies.
till Might 11 – Foire de Paris, The Grand Paris Expo
The Foire de Paris is Europe’s largest general-purpose honest, held yearly on the Conference Heart at Porte de Versailles. In 2025, the occasion will happen from April 30 to Might 11.
It’s a improbable alternative to find modern merchandise, intelligent innovations, and luxuriate in retail procuring, usually at diminished costs. Whether or not you’re inquisitive about house items, meals, or devices, this honest has one thing for everybody and is an effective way to spend a day exploring new traits and concepts.
11 to 17 Might – Fête du Ache (Bread Competition)
The French Bread Competition (Fête du Ache) returns to Paris from Might 11 to Might 17, 2025, celebrating France’s iconic baguettes and artisanal bread. Held in entrance of Notre-Dame Cathedral, the competition presents demonstrations, tastings, and the possibility to fulfill grasp bakers.
It’s the right occasion for bread lovers to expertise French baking traditions firsthand.
16 to 26 Might – Saint Germain des Prés Jazz Competition
This iconic jazz competition options a mixture of famend worldwide artists and rising stars, with concert events held in a few of the most lovely venues in Saint-Germain, together with church buildings, golf equipment, and theaters. It’s a must-see occasion for jazz lovers!
17 to 18 Might – European Museums Evening
In the course of the European Museums Evening, lots of Paris’ prime museums keep open till midnight, providing free entry to discover their collections.
You too can be part of workshops, guided excursions, screenings, and extra—all freed from cost. It’s a improbable solution to expertise Parisian tradition in a novel, after-hours setting.
20 to 26 of Might – Paris Beer Competition at Floor Crontrol
The Paris Beer Competition 2025 will happen from Might 20 to Might 26, 2025, celebrating craft beer tradition within the coronary heart of Paris. With tastings, brewery excursions, and workshops, this week-long occasion is ideal for beer lovers. Uncover the very best native brews, meet passionate brewers, and luxuriate in a wide range of beer-related actions all through town.
23 to 26 Might – Belleville Artists’ Open Studios
The Belleville Artists’ Open Studios is a improbable alternative to discover the colourful artwork scene in considered one of Paris’ most artistic neighborhoods.
Held from Might 23 to Might 26, 2025, the occasion invitations you to step into the studios of native artists and uncover their work firsthand. From portray and sculpture to pictures and blended media, you’ll discover a numerous vary of artwork types on show.
Wander by way of Belleville’s streets, meet the artists, and achieve perception into their artistic processes.
24 to 25 Might – Printemps de Rues
The twenty eighth version of Printemps de Rues will happen on Might 24 and 25, 2025. This vigorous road arts competition transforms Paris’ streets into open-air phases, that includes performances from theater, circus acts, dance, and music.
It’s a must-see occasion for lovers of city tradition and free creative expression.
Tip: If you happen to like road artwork, don’t miss the House Invaders of Paris.
29 Might – Ascension
Ascension Day is a public vacation in France that falls on Thursday, Might 29, 2025. Whereas outlets outdoors the middle might be closed, most museums and sights stay open, making it a very good day for sightseeing in Paris.
Many French individuals will “faire le pont,” utilizing the day as a bridge for a protracted weekend and you may anticipate Paris to be filled with each locals and vacationers.
If you happen to’re visiting Paris throughout this time, ensure to guide your tickets upfront. Town might be bustling, and points of interest will replenish rapidly.
31 Might to 1 June: We Love Inexperienced Competition
This eco-conscious music competition combines an unimaginable lineup of worldwide and native artists with a robust give attention to sustainability. Held within the lovely Bois de Vincennes, the competition presents not simply music but in addition talks, workshops, and immersive eco-friendly experiences.
25 Might to eight June – French Open
As one of the crucial prestigious tennis tournaments on this planet, it’s a must-see for tennis followers. Watch the highest gamers battle it out on the well-known clay courts, and expertise the electrical ambiance of this iconic Parisian occasion.
25 Might Fête des Mères
Mom’s Day, an important day of all.
Wrap up
Voilà, right here’s to journey to Paris in Might. Town actually comes alive with its festivals, public holidays, and blossoming gardens. Whether or not you’re having fun with a jazz live performance, exploring hidden gems, or taking in panoramic views from the Eiffel Tower, town is buzzing with power.
With a lot to see and do, it’s necessary to plan forward, particularly throughout busy weekends. From artwork lovers to foodies and households, there’s one thing for everybody in Paris this month, making it the right time to go to and expertise the magic.
Bon voyage!
Parisienne since 2006 🩷
Skilled in: Parisian Life &
French Tradition, Journey
Planning, Crochet & Meals and Drinks
Be a part of me on Fb for updates and information about Paris.
Flights & Transportation:
Accomodation:
- Lodges in Europe I largely guide by way of Reserving.com (verify critiques rigorously)
- Trip Leases by way of Airbnb or VRBO
Excursions & Points of interest:
- I guide excursions & actions by way of Get Your Information or Viator.
- Museum & Landmark tickets could be cheaper on the official web page, however they’re usually bought out.
- I really like the GoCity Journey Passes for straightforward planning
- I exploit Tiqets for Seine Cruises as a result of with my code SALUT5 we get 5% off
Should-Haves for Paris:
- eSim card to remain on-line whereas in Paris. I used GigSky for my travels.
- You doubtless want a journey adapter to plug your units.
- Journey Insurance coverage – if you happen to don’t have one, VisitorsCoverage is an effective choice.
- In case your flight is delayed and even canceled, use AirHelp to get compensation.
PS: Try these posts, they may assist you plan your journey to Paris
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