Welcome to Paris in the Spring!
Travel Dates: March, April, May
Spring in Paris is cool and often unpredictable, so layering is key. Start with short sleeve or long sleeve shirts, and add a warm jacket or sweater for the cooler mornings and evenings. A rain jacket or small umbrella is essential since light showers can occur at any time. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the city, and if you’re visiting in May, you might want to pack a pair of flats for warmer days. Don’t forget a scarf to add a touch of Parisian style while keeping cozy on cooler days.
Dress Code
Paris is known for its chic and sophisticated style, so you’ll want to dress stylishly yet comfortably. During the day, casual but polished attire like jeans, pants, and sweaters is perfect for sightseeing. For evenings, especially if you’re dining out or attending an event, smart casual is the way to go—a stylish dress or a nice top with pants will help you fit in with the fashionable Parisians. Comfortable shoes are essential for walking the city’s cobblestone streets, and lightweight layers are useful for adjusting to the often-changing spring weather. A scarf is a must-have accessory to complete your Parisian look.
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MARCH
39 – 54F (4 – 12C)
Cool, cloudy, with light rain
1.7 inches of rain
APRIL
43 – 59F (6 – 15C)
Mild, partly cloudy, with showers
1.8 inches of rain
MAY
50 – 66F (10 – 19C)
Mild, sunny, with occasional rain
2.3 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Great for layering and staying comfortable during milder afternoons. I loved having these for casual days exploring the city.
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for cooler mornings and evenings, especially when visiting outdoor markets or parks.
3. Warm Jacket: Necessary for staying cozy during chilly days, especially in March and April.
4. Rain Jacket: Essential for Paris’s frequent spring showers, keeping you dry while you explore the city.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Jeans: Comfortable and versatile, great for exploring Paris’s many neighborhoods and attractions. These were great for walking around Montmartre.
2. Pants: A lightweight pair of pants is useful for both day and evening, perfect for casual outings or dining out.
3. Skirt: A stylish option for warmer days spent shopping or visiting museums.
4. Dress: A versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, ideal for a day of sightseeing or an evening out.
5. Jumpsuit: Great for a chic, all-in-one outfit that’s comfortable and perfect for Paris’s stylish vibe.
6. Leggings: Ideal for layering or for a comfortable option on cooler days. I liked having leggings for relaxing after a day of exploring.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for exploring Paris’s cobblestone streets and parks. I found these to be really practical for long days on my feet.
2. Flats: A stylish yet comfortable option for warmer days, perfect for casual outings or dining out.
3. Boots: Great for cooler, rainy days when you need extra protection from the elements.
4. Sunglasses: A must for those sunny spring days, especially when enjoying outdoor attractions.
5. Hat: Helps keep you warm on cooler days and adds style to any outfit.
6. Scarf: Perfect for layering and adding warmth on chilly days while adding a touch of Parisian chic.
7. Pajamas: Cozy sleepwear for your stay in Paris, especially useful for cooler nights.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Ideal for a weekend trip, with enough room for your essentials and a few outfits.
2. Daypack: Useful for carrying water, snacks, and extra layers while exploring the city.
3. Purse: Handy for carrying your essentials when going out for dinner or attending events.
4. Tote Bag: Great for carrying additional layers or purchases from local shops.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Layering is essential: Paris’s spring weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
- Rain gear: Showers are common, so a rain jacket or small umbrella is a must-have.
- Comfortable footwear: Paris is best explored on foot, so bring comfortable walking shoes.
- Smart casual attire: If you plan to dine out or visit cultural events, pack a smart casual outfit.
Paris Spring Travel FAQs
WHICH SPRING MONTH IS THE BEST TO VISIT PARIS?
May is the best month to visit Paris during spring, with milder temperatures, blooming gardens, and numerous outdoor events.
WHAT SPRING FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN PARIS?
March: Paris Fashion Week – A prestigious event showcasing the latest trends from top designers, held at various venues across the city.
March: Salon du Livre – A major book fair held at Porte de Versailles, attracting authors, publishers, and book lovers.
April: Foire de Paris – A large trade fair featuring products for the home, food, and lifestyle, held at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles.
April: Easter Celebrations – Special masses and events at Notre-Dame Cathedral and other churches across the city.
May: Nuit des Musées – A night when many of Paris’s museums stay open late with free entry and special events.
May: Roland-Garros (French Open) – One of the world’s most famous tennis tournaments, held at the Stade Roland-Garros.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN PARIS IN THE SPRING?
Spring in Paris is the perfect time to explore the city’s iconic landmarks and beautiful gardens. Start your day with a visit to the Eiffel Tower, where you can take in the views from the top or enjoy a picnic in the Champ de Mars. Next, head to the Louvre Museum to see its incredible collection of art, including the Mona Lisa. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the Tuileries Garden, or visit the cherry blossoms at Parc de Sceaux. End your day with a Seine River cruise, where you can see the city’s landmarks from the water. If you’re visiting in May, don’t miss the Roland-Garros tennis tournament, a highlight of the spring season.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT PARIS IN THE SPRING?
A 5-7 day visit is ideal for experiencing the best of Paris in the spring, including its cultural events, museums, and gardens.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: Day 1: Start with a visit to the Eiffel Tower in the morning, followed by a stroll along the Seine to see Notre-Dame Cathedral. Spend the afternoon exploring the Louvre Museum, and then enjoy dinner in the Latin Quarter. Day 2: Visit the Tuileries Garden in the morning, then explore Montmartre and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. In the afternoon, take a Seine River cruise, and end the day with a walk along the Champs-Élysées, finishing at the Arc de Triomphe.
5 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 2-day schedule. Add: Day 3: Explore the Musée d’Orsay in the morning, followed by lunch in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. In the afternoon, visit the Rodin Museum, and then enjoy a sunset view from the Montparnasse Tower. Day 4: Take a day trip to the Palace of Versailles, exploring the opulent rooms and beautiful gardens. Day 5: Visit the Musée de l’Orangerie in the morning, followed by a walk through the Marais district. In the afternoon, visit the Pompidou Centre, and enjoy dinner at a classic Parisian bistro.
1 Week: Copy the itinerary of the 5-day schedule. Add: Day 6: Visit the Luxembourg Gardens in the morning, then explore the Pantheon and the Latin Quarter. In the afternoon, take a tour of the Opéra Garnier, and in the evening, enjoy a cabaret show at the Moulin Rouge. Day 7: Spend the day visiting lesser-known attractions like the Canal Saint-Martin, the Père Lachaise Cemetery, and the Belleville neighborhood, ending with a final dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant.
10 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 1-week schedule. Add: Day 8: Explore the Château de Fontainebleau, a historic royal residence just outside of Paris. In the evening, return to Paris for a dinner cruise on the Seine. Day 9: Spend the day exploring the Paris Catacombs, followed by a visit to the Montparnasse Cemetery. In the evening, attend a concert at the Sainte-Chapelle. Day 10: Revisit your favorite spots or discover new areas, ending with a final dinner at one of Paris’s top-rated restaurants.
2 Weeks: Copy the itinerary of the 10-day schedule. Add: Day 11: Take a day trip to Giverny, where you can visit Claude Monet’s home and gardens. Day 12: Explore the medieval town of Provins, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved fortifications. Day 13: Visit the Château de Chantilly, known for its stunning architecture and art collections. Day 14: Spend your final day revisiting favorite spots, shopping for souvenirs, or enjoying one last meal at your favorite Paris restaurant.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN PARIS?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Warm Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Jeans
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Scarf
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
5 Days
- 3 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Warm Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Jeans
- 1 Skirt
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Dress
- 1 Jumpsuit
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Scarf
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
1 Week
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Warm Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Jeans
- 1 Skirt
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 1 Jumpsuit
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Scarf
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
10 Days
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Warm Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 2 Pairs of Jeans
- 1 Skirt
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Scarf
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
2 Weeks
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Warm Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 2 Pairs of Jeans
- 2 Skirts
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 3 Dresses
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Scarf
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR PARIS IN THE SPRING?
Heavy Winter Coats: Paris’s spring weather is cool, but a heavy coat will likely be too warm.
High Heels: Paris’s cobblestone streets are better navigated in comfortable, flat shoes.
Thick Sweaters: The temperatures are mild, so thick sweaters will likely be too warm.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO PARIS IN THE SPRING?
Airfare: $500 – $1,000, depending on the departure location and booking time.
Accommodation: $150 – $400 per night, with variations based on the location and hotel class.
Transportation: $40 – $100 for local travel, including Metro passes and Ubers.
Meals: $50 – $150 per day, depending on dining choices.
Activities: $30 – $120 for museum entrance fees, theatre tickets, and other activities.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN PARIS? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping in Paris is not mandatory as a service charge is usually included in restaurant bills. However, it’s customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip for exceptional service. In cafes and bars, leaving a few coins is appreciated but not expected. For taxis, rounding up the fare is common practice.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT PARIS BEFORE I VISIT?
- Paris’s spring weather can be unpredictable: Always be prepared for sudden rain, so keep your rain gear handy.
- Public transportation is efficient: The Metro is a great way to get around the city, especially during peak hours.
- The city is very walkable: Bring comfortable shoes and be ready to explore on foot.
- Plan for crowds: Paris is a major tourist destination, so book tickets and reservations in advance for popular attractions.