Emma Lawson
Travel Writer
Fewer crowds, mild weather, blooming gardens — and hotel rates that haven't hit summer peaks. Here's how to plan a spring Paris trip.
Paris is one of those cities that genuinely looks different in different seasons. Spring — specifically April and May — offers a combination of factors that, in our view, make it the single best time to visit.
The weather is mild without being summer-hot April averages 15°C (59°F) with moderate rainfall. May reaches 18–20°C with longer days and significantly less rain. You'll need a light jacket but won't be sweating through museum queues or fighting your umbrella on every corner.
The gardens are at their most spectacular The Tuileries Garden, Jardin des Plantes, Luxembourg Gardens, and Versailles grounds are in full bloom from mid-April through May. This is also when cherry blossoms appear along the Champs-Élysées — a detail most visitors don't know about until they see it.
Crowds are lower than summer (but the city is alive) Paris in July and August is genuinely overwhelming at major sites — the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre-Dame all operate at capacity with queues of 90+ minutes. In spring, queues exist but are manageable. Many Parisians are still working (the summer exodus doesn't happen until July), so the city feels authentic rather than touristy.
Hotel and flight prices are below peak Spring sits between the shoulder season (winter, early March) and the summer peak (June–August). You'll pay more than January but significantly less than August. Booking 6–8 weeks out typically yields good rates; last-minute spring bookings can be surprisingly affordable if dates are flexible.
Key spring events - *Paris Marathon* (typically early April): the city is electric, but book accommodation early and expect some road closures - *French Open (Roland Garros)* (late May–early June): tennis fans can attend matches; casual tickets for early rounds are accessible - *Nuit Européenne des Musées* (mid-May): one Saturday night per year, major museums open free until midnight
What to watch out for April does get rain — pack a compact umbrella and layers. Easter weekend can be surprisingly busy (and some smaller shops close). May 1st (Labour Day) and May 8th (Victory in Europe Day) are public holidays — expect museum closures.
Our spring Paris itinerary outline - Day 1: Arrive, settle in, Marais neighborhood evening walk - Day 2: Louvre (pre-book timed entry), Tuileries, Palais Royal - Day 3: Versailles day trip (arrive before 10am) - Day 4: Montmartre, Sacré-Cœur, Seine river cruise at sunset - Day 5: Musée d'Orsay, Saint-Germain, final evening on a terrace