11 Bucket List Ideas for Visiting Paris in the Spring

One of my favorite times to visit Paris is in the Spring, when the city turns into vibrant hub of activity after a mellow few months of winter.

The city is filled with the scent of freshly bloomed flowers, everyone is in a good mood because the weather is finally getting warm, and sidewalk seating is actually enjoyable.

Fashion lovers find their paradise during Paris Fashion Week, offering endless opportunities for fabulous sights and style inspiration.

It’s one of my favorite times of year to be in the city because the people watching is so good!

With a calendar brimming with festivals and various special events, spring in Paris presents a unique chance to experience the city’s dynamic culture at its peak.

Below is everything you need to know about visiting Paris in the spring, and why it’s one of the best times to go to Paris.

Weather in Paris During the Spring

During spring, expect temperatures from the 40s to 60s in Fahrenheit.

It’s not unusual to get caught in the rain, so packing layers and an umbrella for your Paris trip is wise.

Best Things to Do While Visiting Paris in the Spring

1. Sit at a Sidewalk Cafe 

After all the walking you’ll be doing exploring Paris, you’ll be happy to rest your feet and observe Parisian life from the comfort of a classic cafe.

These are some of my favorite spots to sip a coffee or try a local wine or Champagne alongside my typical order steak frites or a pastries depending on the time of day.

• Cafe de Flore
• Maison Sauvage
• Bonne Franquette
• Le Sancerre
• Le Procope

2. Explore Some Parks and Gardens

Spring breathes life into the city’s flora, making it the ideal time to visit gardens like the Luxembourg Gardens or Jardin des Tuileries.

My favorite thing to do is bring a book or simply enjoy the scenery with a walk, relaxing among blooming flowers and lush greenery.

Sometimes I even remember to bring my travel journal and will sit on one of the benches and catch up on writing with a hot chocolate from Angelina in hand (assuming it’s not too hot outside).

In case you need some help deciding which place to spend your afternoon, let me point you to some of my favorites:

• Luxembourg Gardens
• Le Jardin des Tuileries
• Parc de la Butte-Chapeau-Rouge
• Parc Floral des Paris

3. Spend a Rainy Afternoon at a Museum

Paris’ rich tapestry of art and history is best explored through its museums, especially when rain showers grace the city.

Musee d’Orsay and The Louvre offer the most cultural shelter from the storm.

If you’ve never been to The Louvre, it’s typically the first museum on first time visitors lists, and worth checking off, especially if you go either super early or at the end of the day to avoid the large crowds.

I must admit, I’m much more into Musee d’Orsay, since it’s smaller and generally has great special exhibitions happening.

I’m also obsessed with the amazing view from the roof of the museum, where you’ll get to gaze out over the Seine, into Jardin des Tuileries, with The Louvre in the distance.

Another favorite stop of mine is the Rodin Museum. It’s wonderfully eclectic and romantic to walk around, making it a great rainy day date spot (I’ve tested it!).

And if you’re into Monet and want to see his iconic Water Lilies, you’ll want to book tickets ahead of time to Musée de l’Orangerie.

This is a fairly quick museum to see, as it’s fairly small, making it easy to add to a packed itinerary.

Oh, and if you’re there in May, don’t miss the Nuit des Musees, it’s basically a free night at museums.

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4. Hit Up Some Markets

Every time I’m in Paris, I make it a point to seek at least one vintage or antique market. They’re always filled with treasures that make the perfect souvenirs. 

So, if you also like to shop, you won’t want to miss checking out at least one or two Parisian street markets to find unique gifts and splashes of local color.

The best part is that vintage and antique markets abound in Paris, offering everything from delectable food to one-of-a-kind finds.

The Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen and Marché des Enfants Rouges are prime picks for treasure seekers.

If you’re a shopaholic, you need to hit up one of these cute marketplaces while you’re visiting:

• Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen 
• Marché d’Aligre
• Marché des Enfants Rouges
• Les Puces de Montreuil
• Marche de Porte de Vanves
• Marche Paul Bert

5. Walk to All the Tourist Attractions

I’m a massive fan of walking around new cities, always walking to every location that’s remotely walkable. 

Assuming it’s not raining, spring in Paris is the perfect time to take advantage of how walkable the city is. 

My dad and I hit up a ton of spots, including the Eiffel Tower, The Louvre, and Notre Dame, during a quick 24 hours in Paris while walking everywhere. 

To visit these iconic landmarks, carefully map a route, perhaps using a guided walking tour to enhance your journey.

My all-time favorite walking tours I’ve done in Paris have been from Walks Tours, which always has the most knowledgeable guides.

I also love Devour Tours, especially because most of their tours involve food and wine.

6. Plan a Picnic

I love planning picnics in every city I visit, assuming the weather is acceptable.

In Paris, my favorite thing to do is to pick up a bottle of wine (or champagne), a fresh baguette, lots of cheese, a bit of pate, and desserts, including my favorite macarons. 

From there, I always find a spot on the Seine to sit and indulge in all the French delicacies I’ve collected. I especially like sitting near Notre Dame, or in a spot where I can see the Eiffel Tower.

You can also head to a park or garden to picnic if you prefer somewhere with a bit more greenery. 

Either way, there’s no better way to savor the tastes of Paris amidst its landscape.

7. Schedule a River Cruise

There are few things better than being on a boat on a warm spring day, the gentle breeze on your face, as you cruise past some of Paris’s most iconic structures. 

It’s without a doubt one of my favorite things to do in Paris, no matter what time of year.

The views are seriously incredible, especially at night. I think everyone needs to go at least once, and it’s the perfect way to see the city while taking a break from walking.

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Check out some of these popular boat tours!

8. Take a Day Trip

Step outside the city and immerse yourself in places like Versailles or Giverny.

The train system is easy to use and will carry you swiftly to these and other enchanting nearby locales.

Depending on your vibe, another great option is to join a tour to streamline your experience and gain deeper insights.

Walks does a great guided day trip from Paris to Versailles if that’s something you’re interested in.

There are tons of cute little spots with short commute times via train. Some of my favorites are:

• Versailles
• Champagne
• Giverny
• Loire Valley
• Mont Saint-Michel
• Normandy

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9. Rent a Bike

Rent a bike and pedal through Paris to balance sightseeing with working off some of the amazing foods you should absolutely indulge in.

There are lots of convenient bike stations around the city, making it easy to pick up and drop off your ride.

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If you prefer a group setting, there are also plenty of bike tours available.

10. Head to a Rooftop Bar

Who doesn’t love a good rooftop bar the second spring hits?

I don’t think anyone can deny that it’s just a pleasant place to be, especially if you ask them after a few drinks.

These are the rooftop bars with the best views that you should aim for the second you get pleasant weather:

• Terras Hotel
• Hôtel National des Arts et Métiers
• Le Louxor
• 43 Cocktail Bar
• Terrasse de l’hôtel Raphael

11. Hit Up a Popular Spring Festival or Event 

Paris has a ton of events throughout the springtime. With a bit of planning, you can schedule your visit to coincide with one of these popular local activities.

• Carnaval des Femmes – Translated as “The Women’s Parade”, you’ll find women and even men dressed as Queens, all-dancing down the street in a giant procession. 
• Foire du Trone – This is the largest fairground festival in France. 
• Taste of Paris Festival – This event features all the best gastronomical delights of some of the best restaurants in the city.
• Grand Steeple-Chase de Paris – This event is a horse race of sorts. It’s unique because instead of the horses just racing in a circle, they race over a series of complicated jumps.
• The French Open – Non-tennis fans, let me give you the rundown. The French Open is a giant tennis tournament held over two weeks each May. 
• Saint-Germain-des-Prés Jazz Festival – The jazz festival has artists performing in famous cafes, theatres, and historical spots all along the Left Bank. 

Final Thoughts

Paris is magical any time of year, but to me, spring will always be one of the best seasons to visit. 

I can’t wait to be back in the city, picnicking on the Seine someday soon. 

Maybe even by next spring, if I’m lucky.

Let me know in the comments below what you’re most looking forward to doing the next time you visit Paris in the spring!