Top 5 Must-Visit Places in Paris in Summer | Plus Local Tips

My last summer trip to Paris, I was beyond excited to arrive.

It was right after lockdown, and I was craving museums, culture, picnics along the Seine, and, of course, looking forward to the iconic French food.

Because everyone was so excited to be out again, it was quite a scene, especially because there were barely any international tourists in Paris.

That week in the city will be one I’ll never forget.

During that time, I got lots of tips from expats and Parisian locals, and really truly fell in love with the city, seeing it from the more local point of view.

Paris in summer really is a magical time. I hope that my tips below help you fall just as in love with the city as I am.

Paris in Summer Weather

Average Temperature

I’ve been to Paris during the summer multiple times over the last decade, and every experience has been slightly different.

The maximum high temperatures for June through August average out to about 75°F (24°C).

However, it’s important to note that heatwaves have been happening more often, sending temperatures soaring to 100°F (38°C) or even higher.

So always check the weather report before packing.

Weather Tips

Even though summer is warm, Paris has its fair share of rainy days, making it one of the rainiest seasons of the year.

But like the film Midnight in Paris points out, Paris is magical in the rain—so don’t worry, just be prepared.

It’s a good idea to pack an umbrella, a light raincoat, and a sunscreen.

Oh, and absolutely use sunscreen regularly to protect your skin. France is a great place to stock up on sunscreen because their beauty products tend to be superior to the US thanks to strict production guidelines.

It’s also important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated during hot spells. The last thing you want to do is pass out during your trip.

What to Wear and Pack for Paris in Summer

Paris Summer Packing Essentials

When packing for a summer visit to Paris, it’s important to think about a few details.

I always think ahead about a color palette so that most things I’m packing are easy to mix and match.

Parisian fashion, just like New York fashion, often features monotone neutral colors with a big preference for black.

But I also highly encourage you to pack a special outfit (or two) that makes you feel fabulous.

Plan an activity like dinner or a photoshoot that you’ll wear it for.

Both men and women will want to pack clothing crafted from materials that ideally are light and not easily wrinkled.

While linen is a trendy choice, it’s frustrating to pack because of its tendency to wrinkle.

Also, when packing footwear, comfort is key!

You’re going to be doing a lot of walking, so pack sneakers or sandals with excellent support.

I basically live in my Birkenstocks and On Cloud sneakers walking around any major cities.

Oh, and don’t forget accessories, like sunglasses, belts, and jewelry. Accessorizing is the easiest way to take a monotone outfit from bland to glam.

I know some people, especially Americans, hear pack comfortable clothes and immediately grab leggings.

So fair warning, most Parisians don’t do sports caps or athletic wear. If you’re wearing these items and not running along the Seine, your look will absolutely scream “I’m a tourist” from a mile away.

Top Paris Attractions

Monuments and Sightseeing

One of my favorite things about Paris is the amount of things to do there.

It’s important to remember that it’s impossible to see everything in one trip.

I’ve been in Paris eight times now, one one trip for almost a month total, and there’s still places I need to cross off my bucket list.

So don’t make yourself insane trying to do everything.

Instead, pick your top activities and plan around those.

Some of the most popular places to visit are obviously places like the iconic Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and Notre Dame (partially re-opening in December of this year!)

There are also lesser-known gems like The Sainte-Chapelle, which is has some of the most incredible stained glass you’ll ever see.

The interior absolutely took my breath away. I highly recommend you consider it, especially if you’re visiting before Notre Dame is open.

Another must-see for the adventurous among you is the Catacombs of Paris.

Last year, I finally got to experience them, when Walks Tours invited me to join their tour. It was such a fascinating experience to see, all while learning about the centuries old history of Paris.

And it’s great during the hot summer days, because the Catacombs are cooler than street level.

And whatever you do, don’t miss out on my favorite way to spend a summer evening in Paris.

Make a sunset picnic along the Seine with delicious macarons, cheese, baguette, fruit, and either champagne or wine.

It’s absolutely dreamy strolling along the river, and even more dreamy if you hop on one of the Seine cruises.

I went on one while I was solo in Paris and it was one of the most magical ways to spend the evening.

It was so dreamy floating by the Eiffel Tower right as the sparkles start, and meandering by most of Paris’ top sights, all lit up.

Cultural Experiences

Paris is famous for its culture, so you better be hitting up at least one museum on your visit.

The Louvre is the most iconic one, with the infamous Mona Lisa.

If you want to visit, I suggest you book your tickets in advance and plan to arrive either first thing in the morning, because it gets crowded fast!

While you’re there, obviously see Da Vinci’s most famous painting, but don’t miss out on my favorite pieces, the sculpture, Psyche Revived by Cupid’s Kiss, The Winged Victory of Samothrace, and of course, Galerie d’Apollon, home to the stunning French Crown Jewels.

If you’re open to seeing another museum, go to either L’Orangerie or Musee D’Orsay.

My favorite museum I’ve been to so far is D’Orsay. They’ve got a lot of Van Gough, and a wide variety of artwork to immerse yourself in.

Plus, its cafe has a rooftop that has an amazing view of the Seine and The Louvre.

Plus, it’s inside an iconic old train station, so you really feel like you’re stepping back in time.

You should also plan to spend some time wandering around some of Paris’ oldest neighborhoods like Le Marais, Montmartre, and the Latin Quarter.

If you’re looking for a tour, check out one of Devour’s many food tours. I’ve been on their Ultimate Food Tour, and their Paris at Sunset Tour—-both were absolutely incredible!

I learned so much about the history of the neighborhood and food and wine, plus who doesn’t love trying new foods?

Sports

If you visit during the time of the Tour de France, which is usually most of July, don’t miss out on catching up with locals, or better yet, catching Paris leg in person!

My dad and I went to the last day of the tour in 2017 and were lucky enough to end up right where the finish line was, standing next to friends of the guy who won.

They also do a flyover with military planes, so it’s pretty epic!

And if you’re in town this summer, chances are you’ve already heard the Summer Olympics are in town.

Be ready for lots of crowds, raised prices everywhere, and lots of annoyed locals.

Parisian Festivals and Events

National Holidays

One of the most important national holidays in France is Bastille Day.

The French celebrate July 14th to mark the anniversary of the storming of the Bastille.

If you’re not up on your French history, basically what you need to know is it was a key event in the French Revolution.

On that day, revolutionary insurgents tried to seize the medieval armory and political prison called Bastille.

There’s a parade in the morning, and fireworks near the Eiffel Tower at night.

Essentially, it feels like the 4th of July.

Music and Entertainment

Paris offers a ton of outdoor music festivals and entertainment during the summer.

There’s truly something for everyone no matter what your style.

I’ve not been able to check any of them out yet, but these are the ones my local friends keep told me I need to visit for.

Fête de la Musique: This nationwide festival is a celebration of music, on the 21st of June, featuring free performances across numerous venues in Paris.

Paris Jazz Festival: If you’re a jazz fan, this festival is right up your alley. Throughout June and July, jazz concerts take place in parks and other outdoor settings, providing a perfect summer atmosphere.

Rock en Seine: For rock fans, late August is when you should visit Paris, as the Rock en Seine festival takes place. This three-day event showcases international and local rock acts across multiple stages.

Festival Silhouette: Film buffs can indulge in a special cinematic experience through this short film festival, which occurs in late August or early September.

The event features a curated selection of short films from various genres, and outdoor screenings take place for free.

Navigating Paris in the Summer

Transportation Tips

During the summer, Paris experiences a high influx of tourists.

To navigate the city smoothly, you’ve got a few options, the metro, the bus, renting a bike, walking, or hopping in an Uber.

I’m a massive fan of walking while I’m in the city, so that’s normally my default, unless it’s super far away, then I’ll take the metro.

Traffic in Paris is heavy, so I try to avoid taking an car or the bus, especially at rush hour.

Last year, I also really got into the electronic scooters to get around, but annoyingly they removed them last summer.

The good news is they do still have the rental bikes on the street.

They aren’t as fun as the scooters, and you certainly can’t ride them in certain outfits, but they get the job done.

If you’re planning on relying heavily on public transit, look into getting the Paris Pass. If you use it enough, it’ll save you money and help you access not only public transit but also top attractions.

Fair warning, when using the metro, try to avoid rush hour as metro cars can get crowded.

Not to mention it’s also a favorite of pickpockets, so always stay aware.

Dealing with Crowds

Summer earns the reputation of being the city’s high season, resulting in larger crowds at popular attractions.

Especially this year with the Olympics.

So you better bet all the touristy spots, and even the less-touristy ones will be incredibly busy this year.

To make the most of your time in Paris, purchase or reserve entry ahead of time whenever possible.

Bonus points if you splurge for skip-the-line tickets. You’ll be glad you did when you arrive at the giant line.

These tickets not only save time but also guarantee a more enjoyable experience at iconic sites.

It’s also helpful to plan either early morning or late evening visits because the crowds tend to be a bit thinner at those hours.

Outdoor Summer Activities

Parks and Relaxation

Paris offers plenty of green spaces for you to unwind and relax during the summer.

Besides Paris Plages, another popular outdoor spot is Parc de la Villette.

Here you can attend outdoor concerts, movie screenings, or simply lounge on the grass.

I really enjoy hanging out or picnicking along the Seine or in one of the city’s many famous parks, like Luxembourg Gardens and Jardin des Tuileries.

It’s also really fun to book a Seine cruise for the ultimate sightseeing tour. They go pretty much any time of day, but I like recommending sunset or late evening for the best experience.

I finally got to take a Seine cruise last October and it was magical seeing the city all lit up at night.

If you’re in the mood for a peaceful stroll this summer, skip the Seine, since it’ll be a mess with the Olympics.

Instead, you should head to the romantic Canal Saint-Martin with its picturesque bridges and waterside cafés.

Paris Plages

During the summer months, Parisians and tourists alike can enjoy the unique Paris Plages, temporary artificial beaches set up along the Seine River.

You can relax on a deck chair or under a parasol, while taking in the beautiful surroundings of iconic landmarks such as the Notre Dame Cathedral or the Louvre Museum.

It’s one of my favorite things to enjoy while walking along the Seine, gelato in hand of course!

They also have places you can grab wine and light cocktails, and snacks if you want to have a little picnic.

This summer event truly transforms the city into a beach escape, providing an alternative way to enjoy the Parisian landscape.

The Olympics will interrupt though fair warning, like most things in Paris this year. They’re using the walkways along the Seine for the ceremony.

Take a Day Trip

If you’re looking for a half or full-day excursion, visit the magnificent Versailles Palace and Gardens.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site, located just outside of Paris, boasts stunning architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens.

If you’re only planning a half day there, fair warning, you likely will either rush or only see the Palace or Garden.

The good news is it’s a simple trip on the metro to get there and it’s truly gorgeous!

Another day trip option is Lille. This charming little city on the border of Belgium is quietly becoming a popular spot for a quick day trip or weekend getaway from the city.

I went last March for a weekend and had the best time exploring.

The train was really easy to take, and the city was easy to walk around.

Plus, the people were so friendly, and there was some grand architecture, history, and a fabulous museum.

Normandy is another popular day trip from Paris. I haven’t been yet, but have heard it’s an amazing site to see.

Another iconic day trip is visiting Reims for a Champagne tasting. Devour Tours, one of my favorite tour companies, has a tour there that’s on the top of my list!

Remember to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan your outdoor activities in advance to make the most of your Parisian experience.

Relax at a Cafe Terrasse

Snagging an outdoor table at a cafe is one of my favorite ways to relax in France any time of year, but especially in the warmer months.

Both Les Deux Margots and Cafe de Flore are the historic classics in Saint-Germain-des-Prés that are must visits.

Another great cafe I like hanging in is La Place Royale in the Marais.

Budgeting for Your Parisian Summer Vacation

Affordable Accommodations

Finding a place to stay in Paris during the summer months doesn’t have to break the bank.

Though this summer, with the Olympics happening, it just might.

Honestly, if you haven’t already booked accommodations, you’re in for a battle or a really expensive bill.

Your best bet to save money is likely going to be to stay way outside of the city.

But you should absolutely consider the hassle of getting to and from accommodations that are further away, especially as the French love a good protest.

If you’re planning outside the Olympics, follow these directions.

To save on transit costs, try to book accommodations in a central neighborhood, as Paris is a fairly compact city, allowing you to explore most of its main sights by foot or a quick Metro ride.

FAQ’s

What are the top attractions in Paris during summer?

Paris has tons of things to do year-round, but summer in Paris is one of my favorite times for sightseeing and events.

Obviously, you need to see the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and see the Mona Lisa (fair warning, she’s a bit of a letdown, but don’t worry, there’s plenty of other amazing stuff to see at The Louvre).

You should also see what summer events are happening while you’re visiting Paris.

I really love Paris Plages, which is a summer pop-up along the Seine. Though fair warning, it won’t be happening this summer because of the Olympics.

I’ve also heard Fête de la Musique is a ton of fun. It’s something I’m hoping to cross off my bucket list soon.

How is the weather in Paris in June, July, and August?

The weather in Paris during the summer months (June, July, and August) is typically quite nice.

Though, when I was in Paris during the summer a few years ago, I was very grateful that I had my leather jacket, especially at night.

The average temperature hovers around 65.4 degrees F, with lows around 56 degrees F and highs around 75 degrees F.

Paris can also have summer showers, so don’t forget to pack an umbrella just in case!

What are some cool indoor activities for hot days in Paris?

One of my favorite ways to spend a hot summer days in Paris is to head to one of its many museums.

You can visit iconic museums like the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and Centre Pompidou, or discover lesser-known gems like the Rodin Museum and Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature.

My favorites are Musée d’Orsay, Rodin Museum, Dior, and Bourse de commerce.

If you aren’t one for typical museums, you could always check out Atelier des Lumières. They do these amazing immersive art experiences.

Besides that, there’s always the old standby of hitting up one of the city’s historic cinemas, or scheduling a relaxing day at the spa.

Or, if you’re into architecture, check out some of the iconic buildings in Paris, like Notre Dame, Sainte Chapelle, Conciergerie, and my personal favorite, the Palais Garnier.

What is the best time to visit Paris in the summer?

The best time to visit Paris in the summer depends on your preferences, interests, and schedule.

Typically the city sees a spike in tourists, during the summer making the city feel quite crowded.

And this summer with the Olympics taking place will be next level crazy.

A lot of the city will have restrictions, construction, higher prices, and crowds.

If you’re planning on visiting Paris this summer, I’d aim for September when the crowds start to dissipate.

Though fair warning, I’ve heard from local friends that a lot of places may still be partially open as they remove all the remaining Olympic construction.

How does the summer season compare to other seasons in Paris?

One of my favorite times to visit thanks to the warmer temperatures, outdoor festivals, and longer days for sightseeing.

But, it’s also one of the most crowded and expensive times compared to other seasons.

Fall and spring in Paris offer more moderate temperatures and fewer tourists, making it an ideal time to enjoy the city’s charm without the hustle and bustle.

It’s also perfect weather to sit at a cafe sipping wine or espresso.

Winter in Paris isn’t always great for sightseeing because of the generally cold and rainy weather.

But perfect if you want to sip hot chocolates and enjoy the magical ambiance of the holiday lights and seasonal events.

Ultimately, the best season to visit the city depends on your preferences and priorities.

Final Thoughts

Let me know in the comments below what you’re most looking forward to doing in Paris this summer!

I know I’m looking forward to next summer when I can picnic along the Seine with all my favorites—macarons, champagne, strawberries, raspberries, baguette, butter, and of course, cheese.