Summer season in Paris at all times sparks debate. Some say August is the worst—too sizzling, too crowded, half the town shut. Others swear it’s the perfect time to go to. Actually? Each are proper.
There’s a lot to like. And some issues to brace for. Paris in summer time has its allure—but additionally its temper swings.
After 20 years right here, I’ve seen each type of Parisian summer time. I’ve escaped the warmth with chilled wine on a shaded terrasse, danced at road live shows, and waited means too lengthy in traces behind sweating vacationers.
At its greatest, Paris in summer time seems like one lengthy occasion. Music within the streets, terrasses packed previous midnight, Aperol Spritz is virtually a meals group.
If you understand what to anticipate—and what to skip—it may be an excellent time to go to. This information offers you the total image. Simply information, no fluff. (Plus an outline of occasions on the finish!)
Salut, I’m Lena – journey planning skilled and parisienne since 2006 🩷
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Summer season in Paris: Love It or Depart It?
Summer season in Paris buzzes—with vacationers, vibes and the occasional warmth. However what’s it actually prefer to be right here throughout these months? Right here’s what to anticipate, straight from somebody who’s lived it.
Additionally Learn my Paris by Month Guides:
Climate & Heatwaves (Canicule)
Summer season in Paris runs from June by means of September, and most days are genuinely nice.
Anticipate heat afternoons, delicate mornings and evenings, and the occasional rain bathe—particularly in June. From July to early September, it stays largely snug, with daytime highs round 25 °C (77 °F).
However when a canicule hits—often in July or August—it will get intense, and it’s making summers much less predictable. Temps can shoot previous 35 °C (95 °F), and nights supply little reduction.
➤ Additionally Learn: Paris When It’s Sizzling: 15 Methods to Beat the Warmth
These sizzling spells aren’t uncommon anymore. They hit each summer time, typically two or thrice, usually with barely a break in between.
That’s when locals keep indoors, shutters keep shut, and parks turn out to be the one bearable locations.
Summer season Crowds and Vacation Closures
July and August are the excessive season of the excessive season. It’s peak tourism when worldwide guests flood in simply as Parisians head out. Lengthy traces on the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre Dame (in fact) are the norm. That is the busiest the town will get.
There’s a typical assumption—largely from August critics—that Paris shuts down utterly. It doesn’t. Particularly not within the centre.
Certain, right here and there a café takes its summer time break. However most eating places, retailers, and bars round central Paris keep open to fulfill vacationer demand.
Within the outer arrondissements and extra residential neighbourhoods, closures are extra noticeable. You may discover a boulangerie or your favorite nook bistro closed for a number of weeks. Nonetheless, you’re by no means removed from an open one—there are many alternate options.
And vacationer sights? All the time open.
Air Conditioning in Paris: Don’t Depend On It
Air con could be customary elsewhere—however not in Paris. Most eating places don’t have it. Many retailers don’t both. Even the museum are getting surprisingly sizzling. And in resorts? It’s removed from assured.
In case your resort doesn’t clearly point out air‑conditioning, assume it’s not there. It’s not customary, particularly in older buildings. So throughout summer time, be certain to ebook lodging that’s clearly mentioning that they’ve AC.
Summer season in Paris: Greatest Issues to Do
Whether or not June or late August, the town provides wealthy experiences past sightseeing. In the event you love occasions, then the summer time months are the greatest time to go to Paris.
Listed here are my high picks:
#1 Go to the Prime Sights (and ebook early!)
➤ Additionally learn 12 Should-See Points of interest for First-Time Guests
No Paris summer time is full with out the classics—the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Sainte-Chapelle, Sacré-Cœur, and Notre-Dame.
They’re on each checklist for a purpose, and summer time isn’t any exception. However count on crowds. And lengthy queues—usually in full solar.
To skip the worst of it, ebook your tickets upfront. Many common spots promote out days forward, particularly in July and August. A bit of planning saves lots of time—and sweat.
Right here’s an inventory of sights for you that promote out particularly fast:
#2 Attend Fête de la Musique
On June 21, Paris turns into one big open-air music pageant—and when you’re on the town, it’s unimaginable to overlook.
From cafés and bars to sidewalks and plazas, free live shows escape all over the place. Huge levels draw crowds, however the perfect moments usually come from the smaller ones—only a voice and a guitar in some aspect road.
I often hop off the metro at République and zigzag by means of the Marais, throughout Île de la Cité, and as much as the Panthéon—taking detours every time one thing catches my ear.
#3 Loosen up at Paris Plages
Paris Plages kicks off it’s summer time vacation program on July 5, 2025, and runs by means of August 31. Some places stay even open till early September. The theme this 12 months? Brazil!
Think about city seashores with deckchairs, palm timber, and pop-up bars lining the Seine, Canal Saint-Martin, and Bassin de la Villette.
You’ll discover all the pieces there—live shows, dance workshops, pétanque courts, swimming swimming pools within the nineteenth arrondissement, video games for teenagers and adults alike, plus meals vans and ice cream stalls
It’s an ideal place to unwind: chill out by the water, be a part of a dance class, sip a chilly drink, or simply absorb the festive vibe.
#4 Swim within the Seine
This summer time, swimming within the Seine isn’t only a dream—it’s taking place. For the primary time in over a century, three swimming websites open July 5 to August 31, 2025:
Town spent greater than €1 billion cleansing the river for the 2024 Olympics and this summer time it’s open to everybody, free of charge! Every spot options lifeguards, altering rooms, lockers,and showers.
#5 Get pleasure from Competition Fnac Stay Paris
From July 2 to 4, 2025, the Fnac Stay Competition returns to the Hôtel de Ville, bringing three nights of free live shows to central Paris.
The road-up consists of 20 artists that take the stage from 17:00 to midnight on the newly greened parvis. Anticipate a combination massive names and contemporary expertise, with sounds overlaying all the pieces from pop to indie to electro.
This 12 months’s acts embrace St. Vincent, Eddy de Pretto, Olivia Ruiz, Air, and plenty of extra.
#6 Watch Movies Open air at La Villette
Now in its thirty fourth version, the open-air cinema at La Villette is among the hottest summer time occasions in northeast Paris.
From July 23 to August 17, free screenings run 5 nights every week at La Villette.
This 12 months, there’s much more: 6 p.m. household classes, and 9 p.m. classics—early sufficient to catch the final metro residence.
Deliver a blanket or ebook a deckchair on-line. It’s relaxed, native, and at all times attracts a crowd. You may take a look on the program right here.
#7 Be a part of a River Cruise on the Seine
➤ Additionally learn 5 Greatest Seine River Cruise in Paris: Your Final Information
A cruise on the Seine is at all times a wise transfer— cool breeze (hopefully) and iconic views, all when you can lean again and chill out.
Basic choices like Bateaux Mouches or Vedettes du Pont Neuf run all day and night, providing all the pieces from easy one-hour loops to full dinner cruises.
➤ That is the most cost effective and hottest Sightseeing Cruise in Paris ➤
Sit on the highest deck for the perfect views, however don’t overlook sunscreen and a hat—there’s no shade, and the solar can hit arduous. The wind often helps take the sting off, however doesn’t forestall sunburns.
My Tip: The view from inside is simply nearly as good—and it’s usually a lot calmer than the packed higher deck.
#8 Picnic by the Seine at Sundown
➤ For snack concepts, learn: Apéro Time: All in regards to the Apéritif in France
A picnic is among the greatest summer time rituals in Paris. Even on the most popular days, evenings settle down simply sufficient to make it bearable.
If the solar’s an excessive amount of, head to the Rive Gauche—there’s extra shade, particularly close to Musée d’Orsay or Jussieu. For golden mild and ambiance, the Marais-side quays are nonetheless the loveliest.
Seize a baguette, cheese, some fruit, chilly cuts, and a bottle of wine or a number of beers. That’s all you want.
A heads-up: ingesting in public isn’t technically allowed—however when you maintain it low-key, you gained’t have points. Suppose quiet group, relaxed vibe—not rowdy crowd.
#9 Rock out at Rock en Seine
Held on the third weekend of August, Rock en Seine marks the unofficial finish of summer time holidays in Paris. Most locals are again, the climate’s nonetheless nice, and it’s the final massive likelihood to let unfastened earlier than routines kick in.
The pageant stretches over three full days, plus a number of bonus live shows. Anticipate 5 levels, a packed lineup, solar, crowds in temper, and all of the necessities—meals stalls, beer, wine, and sure, even a champagne bar. It’s France, in any case.
I’ve gone practically yearly. My private Rock en Seine reminiscence? Ready within the pit for Oasis—solely to seek out out they’d simply break up up backstage. The present by no means occurred.
#10 Take a brief journey to Normandy’s coast
➤ Additionally learn: 21+ Greatest Seashores close to Paris (simple to go to!)
If the warmth or crowds put on you down, a brief escape to the Normandy coast does wonders.
It’s simply round 2 hours by automobile, and also you’ll discover seashores, breeze, and house to breathe. My favourites are:
- Étretat for the cliffs
- Trouville for allure
- Dieppe for a mixture of each
In the event you’re into historical past, the WWII touchdown seashores are additionally definitely worth the journey—transferring, highly effective, and just some hours away.
And they’re even simpler to go to, as guided excursions go away Paris within the morning and convey you again within the night. (➤ Right here’s a small group tour that I like to recommend)
#11 Hunt for Bargains: Paris Summer season Gross sales
Each summer time, Paris transforms right into a procuring paradise throughout les soldes d’été—the official summer time gross sales that each trend lover anticipates.
In 2025, the gross sales kick off on Wednesday, June 25, and run for 4 full weeks, wrapping up on Tuesday, July 22.
Costs drop every Wednesday in phases—first week brings the perfect inventory with modest reductions, whereas the final week usually leaves solely stale remnants from previous seasons.
My insider tip: when you love a specific boutique, go to the day earlier than the gross sales begin. Outlets lay out the items that can go on sale, supplying you with a quiet likelihood to attempt issues on. Then on opening day, you’ll know precisely what to seize—and often snap it up earlier than anybody else.
#12 Discover Native Markets
You already know {that a} picnic by the Seine or in a Parisian park is a summer time important. However the place to buy snacks?
Native markets are the nice place to top off. Suppose contemporary cherries, apricots, cheese, chilly cuts, pastries—no matter you are feeling like consuming below the solar.
Listed here are three of my favourites:
- Marché d’Aligre (twelfth arrondissement)
- Marché des Enfants Rouge (4th arrondissement, the oldest market in Paris)
- Marché Edgar-Quinet (14th arrondissement)
However truthfully, they’re all a bit the identical with related merchandise. Right here you discover the Parisian market schedule for every day.
#13 Fête des Tuileries
From June 22 to August 24, 2025, the Tuileries Gardens host the beloved summer time funfair, simply after Fête de la Musique.
Anticipate 60 rides, together with bumper automobiles, ghost trains, an enormous Ferris wheel with an distinctive view over Paris, proper between Concorde and the Louvre.
Entry is free; you simply pay for the rides or snacks like waffles, sweet apples, and churros.
#14 See the Olympic flame cauldron
One 12 months after the Olympics, Paris nonetheless carries the Olympic spirit.
The flame cauldron is again in place within the Tuileries Backyard, lighting up each night at 9 p.m. from June 22 to August 24.
It’s a placing sight—particularly from the highest of the Ferris wheel on the Fête des Tuileries. A novel piece of Parisian summer time you gained’t see once more quickly… or perhaps you’ll subsequent 12 months, who is aware of.
#15 Loosen up in a Roof Prime Bar
Summer season in Paris means rooftop season. Every year, extra bars appear to pop up on terraces throughout the town. And truthfully, it is sensible. There’s nothing fairly like sipping a chilly drink with the Paris skyline stretched out in entrance of you.
My decide this 12 months? La Bellevilloise. A stunning rooftop with views over Paris and the Eiffel Tower within the distance. And surprisingly, costs are nonetheless affordable—no less than for Paris.
Go early, although. They open at 18h, and it fills quick. Arrive quarter-hour earlier than, and also you’ll virtually at all times rating a great spot with a view.
Heading to Belleville? ➤ Belleville Paris: Avenue Artwork, Meals & Views (Native Information)
#16 Go to a Backyard Outdoors Paris
If Paris begins to really feel like an oven however you’re not prepared for a full seaside escape, head simply outdoors the town.
There are many regional parks and chateau gardens that provide peace, shade, and house to breathe. Removed from the crowds, you’ll be able to unwind below timber, stroll by means of landscaped grounds, or simply stretch out within the grass.
My favourites:
- Parc Vallée-aux-Loups – inexperienced, wild and barely packed.
- Jardin Tropical – quiet, and filled with surprises.
- Parc de Bagatelle – roses, peacocks, and a peaceable escape contained in the Bois de Boulogne.
#17 See the Sundown from Sacre Coeur
Montmartre is at all times a good suggestion—however for sundown, it’s probably the greatest spots in Paris.
Simply seize a seat on the steps in entrance of Sacré-Cœur, watch the sunshine shift over the town, and let the ambiance take over. There’s virtually at all times a road musician enjoying, and flying beer sellers making the rounds.
I do know it’s controversial, however truthfully? I at all times purchase from them. A chilly can handed proper to you, no line, no fuss—sure please. Simply sip quietly and benefit from the view.
#18 Eat Ice Cream (in fact!)
➤ Additionally Learn: 7 Should-Attempt Ice Cream Outlets in Paris
Paris was by no means a gelato paradise—and truthfully, the town’s obsession with ice cream is type of new.
But it surely caught on quick. Now, nice ice cream spots are all over the place, and it’s simple to eat your means by means of city one scoop at a time.
As a result of actually—what’s higher than ice cream in summer time? Listed here are a few of my favourites: 7 Should-Attempt Ice Cream Outlets in Paris
#19 Go to the Catacombs
➤ Additionally Learn Paris Catacombs: Suggestions, Historical past & Tickets
The Catacombs of Paris aren’t for everybody—slender tunnels, numerous stairs, and partitions lined with bones.
In the event you’re claustrophobic or have mobility points, it’s most likely a go. However for individuals who are curious, it’s a captivating and oddly peaceable place.
And right here’s the perfect half in summer time: it’s a gradual 14 °C underground. You may even desire a sweater.
#20 Wander By means of Père Lachaise
➤ Additionally Learn: Père Lachaise Cemetery: Suggestions for a Memorable Go to
Père Lachaise is among the most fascinating spots in Paris. It’s not only a cemetery—it’s a stroll by means of historical past. Writers like Victor Hugo, artists like Eugène Delacroix, but additionally icons like Jim Morrison and Oscar Wilde are buried right here.
If you wish to get out of the dense metropolis centre, this can be a excellent escape. The cemetery is crammed with towering timber, winding paths, and deep shade that retains the air cool even on sizzling days.
#21 Cruise the Canal Saint-Martin
➤ Additionally Learn Canal Saint-Martin Cruise: Discover Paris Otherwise!
Need a summer time cruise in Paris however not into baking on the Seine in full solar? Attempt the Canal Saint-Martin as an alternative.
It’s a quieter, extra native route. The cruise begins with a brief stretch on the Seine earlier than turning into the canal—passing by means of locks, below bridges, and even cruising by means of the underground vault beneath Bastille.
A lot of the route is in shade, making it a cooler, calmer experience. You may go from La Villette to Musée d’Orsay or the opposite means spherical—excellent when you plan to cease at Paris Plage alongside the way in which.
➤ Right here is the tour I took and suggest: Canal Saint-Martin Cruise
Overview: Occasions this Summer season in Paris
Listed here are the summer time 2025 occasions in Paris, sorted by begin date and with hyperlinks to every pageant’s official website:
- Fête de la Musique – June 21, 2025
- Fête des Tuileries – June 22 to August 24, 2025
- Competition Chopin – June 22 to July 14, 2025
- La Défense Jazz Competition – June 23 to 29, 2025
- Classique au Vert – June 28 to September 6, 2025
- Paris Jazz Competition – June 29 to September 7, 2025
- Competition Fnac Stay – July 2 to 4, 2025
- Paris Plages – July 5 to August 31, 2025
- Cinéma en Plein Air – La Villette – July 23 to August 17, 2025
- Rock en Seine – August 20 to 24, 2025
Wrap-Up: Summer season in Paris Is What You Make It
Paris in summer time isn’t flawless—it’s heat, it’s vigorous, and sure, AC may be uncommon.
But it surely’s additionally lively. Music within the air, an occasion calendar that by no means sleeps, golden evenings by the river, and chilled wine on a relaxed terrasse.
Include the best mindset—and perhaps slightly hand fan—and also you’ll see why so many fall in love with Paris this time of 12 months.
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Should-Haves for Paris:
- eSim card to remain on-line whereas in Paris. I used GigSky for my travels.
- You possible want a journey adapter to plug your gadgets.
- Journey Insurance coverage – when you don’t have one, VisitorsCoverage is an effective possibility.
- In case your flight is delayed and even canceled, use AirHelp to get compensation.
Excursions & Points of interest:
- I ebook excursions & actions by means of Get Your Information or Viator.
- Museum & Landmark tickets may be cheaper on the official web page, however they’re usually bought out.
- I really like the GoCity Journey Passes for simple planning
- I take advantage of Tiqets for Seine Cruises as a result of with my code SALUT5 we get 5% off
Flights & Transportation:
Accomodation:
- Accommodations in Europe I largely ebook by means of Reserving.com (verify evaluations rigorously)
- Trip Leases by means of Airbnb or VRBO
