What to Do in Paris in the Spring
This blog post may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission for any purchases made through these links. Click here for the disclosure statement.
There’s a reason Paris in spring feels especially cinematic. The city says au revoir to winter with pretty pink cherry blossoms, longer days, and a fresh energy as Parisians reclaim terraces, parks, and riverbanks. Museum doors stay open late, outdoor markets are stocked with seasonal produce, and the Seine becomes the backdrop for everything from picnics to sunset walks.
Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, spring is one of the most delightful times to explore the French capital. In this post, I’m sharing what to do in Paris in spring, including seasonal events, activities, exhibitions and more. The best part about this list: most of these things don’t cost a penny! Continue reading for your ultimate guide to spring in Paris 2026.
Planning for printemps in Paris? Check out these recommended posts:
Paris in Spring
When is the best time to visit Paris in the spring?
The "best" time to visit Paris in spring really depends on what you prioritize. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, March is undoubtedly the best month to visit. Just be prepared for the colder temperatures. You’ll probably still need a wool coat and boots if you’re dressing for Paris in March.
April is when it really starts to feel like springtime in Paris. It’s usually the peak time to see the flowers in bloom and there is no shortage of cultural events to discover. Count Basie, Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong and so many others sang “April in Paris” for a reason, and it’s certainly when you feel the romance of spring in the air!
Being the closest to summer, May is the busiest month of spring. The upside is that you often get warmer weather, longer daylight hours, all without the intense summer tourism. I always advise my friends and family wanting to visit Paris in summer to consider moving their trip up a bit to May or early June! You avoid the heatwaves of July and August but can still enjoy many of the same outdoors activities.
Spring Weather in Paris
The Paris weather in spring is generally mild and a little unpredictable. Temperatures around this time of year can vary widely, but the average ranges from the mid-40s°F in March to mid-60s°F by May.
Early spring mornings and evenings often feel crisper, but then the sun comes out in the afternoon and it’s often pleasantly warm. And you’ll see more sunshine as summer gets closer!
Rain is fairly common in spring, so it’s a good idea to pack a compact umbrella plus lots of layers and a pair of waterproof shoes. More often it’s light showers rather than all-day downpours though.
The humidity also remains low to moderate compared to summer, but damp air after rain can make temperatures feel cooler (especially in March and early April).
Daylight increases significantly as the season progresses. In March, the sun sets around 6:30 p.m., while by May you’ll enjoy light well past 9:00 p.m. Definitely a perk to visiting in late spring!
Last but not least, don’t forget to check the weather for your travel dates to get a more accurate forecast.
What to Pack for Spring in Paris
Packing for spring in Paris? You’ll want to fill your suitcase with plenty of warm layers, a reliable trench coat (or a wool coat, depending on the temps when you visit), comfortable walking shoes and a tote or crossbody bag that’s light on your shoulder.
You also won’t want to forget travel essentials like sunglasses, a compact umbrella, and a lightweight scarf.
For a complete breakdown, be sure to check out my full guide on what to wear in Paris in spring, where you’ll find a detailed packing list, Parisian-inspired spring outfit ideas, and lots of helpful tips!
I also have monthly Paris packing guides to help you curate your travel wardrobe even further:
What to Pack for Paris in March (coming soon!)
15 Best Things to Do in Paris in Spring
1. Admire the Cherry Blossoms
Spring truly arrives in Paris when cherry trees burst into bloom. Across the city, you’ll find pops of pink from March to the end of April.
The best part is that you don’t have to go far out of your way to see them. Cherry blossoms appear all over Paris in parks, gardens and hidden corners. Chances are you’ll come across them without even trying.
That said, one of the best places to see cherry blossoms in Paris is the Jardin des Plantes. It’s not only free to enter, but filled with some of the city’s most beautiful spring blooms. It’s even home to the largest cherry tree in Paris! I’d highly recommend visiting the botanical garden in spring.
Here are some more suggested spots to admire Paris’s cherry blossoms:
Petit Palais
Parc de Sceaux
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Palais Royal
Jardins du Trocadéro
You definitely can’t visit Paris in the springtime without taking in the cherry blossom trees (and snapping a few photos)!
2. Wander Paris’s Gardens
Paris’s gardens are at their most inviting in spring. Beyond cherry blossoms, you’ll spot magnolias, tulips, wisteria, and roses, plus lots of fresh greenery. There are more than 400 parks in Paris, so you’ll have no trouble finding one to enjoy an afternoon stroll or a picnic in the sun (more on that later).
One of the most popular gardens in Paris is the Jardin du Luxembourg. It’s definitely worth visiting year-round but feels especially dreamy in spring with flowing fountains and blooming flowerbeds. When it’s warm enough, I love grabbing a spot on one of the garden’s iconic green chairs to people-watch, eat lunch, read a book or simply soak up the spring sunshine.
Between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, the Jardin des Tuileries is another charming spot in spring. Walk along the wide gravel paths and take in the manicured hedges and early spring flowers.
I’ve saved the best for last: the Jardin des Plantes. Spring is one of the best times to visit France’s main botanical garden. It was originally created in 1635 as a medicinal herb garden for Louis XII. Today, it’s home to greenhouses and gardens, Paris’s oldest zoo, and the Natural History Museum.
3. Soak in the Sun on a Café Terrace
With winter finally behind us, terrace season slowly starts back up in Paris. One of the best ways to spend an afternoon in the city is by settling in at a café terrace with a drink (and nowhere else to rush off to).
It can still feel a bit chilly in March and April, so I’d suggest going in the late afternoon, when you’re most likely to see some sunshine.
Order a coffee, an apéritif, un sirop or a glass of wine, turn your chair toward the street, and enjoy your daily dose of vitamin D.
If you’re wondering where to find the best cafés in Paris, I have an entire guide to the most iconic ones. But honestly, you can find cafés with sidewalk seating all over the city. Almost every avenue and boulevard has one. I’d recommend picking a different café terrace to try everyday so you can really get the most out of Paris’s café culture!
4. Grab a Drink at a Rooftop Bar
As the sun sets over the Paris skyline, there’s no better way to savor a spring evening than with a drink and a view. Each year, more rooftop restaurants and bars seem to pop up around the city. Some are known for their views of famous landmarks, others their lush green courtyards. What they all have in common is the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. And while I love strolling the Paris streets, we all need a break at times.
For a full roundup of standout spots, check out my guide to the best rooftop bars in Paris. In the meantime, I’ll leave you with a few of my favorites to bookmark.
The rooftops at Galeries Lafayette and Printemps offer some incredible views of the French capital including iconic monuments like Opéra Garnier, the Eiffel Tower, Sacré Cœur, and Notre Dame. They also happen to be free to go to the top if you’re just there for the views.
A very chic rooftop is L’Oiseau Blanc at the Peninsula Paris. There is a restaurant and outdoor bar with direct views of the Eiffel Tower.
I also love grabbing a cocktail at Hotel Madame Rêve. It boasts a beautiful rooftop right in central Paris with a bird's-eye view of the city.
Keep in mind that some rooftop spots in Paris can be pricey! But you’re also paying for the atmosphere and incredible scenery. One drink can be well worth it. Many rooftops also don’t open until the warmer weather arrives in May.
5. Cruise Down the Seine River
One of the most unique ways to see Paris is from the water. As the weather perks up in spring, you’ll definitely want to take a cruise along the Seine River.
If this is your first time in Paris, a river cruise is a particularly great way to discover the city.
I’ll admit, it’s a very touristy activity, but you’ll get to see so many iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Notre Dame Cathedral. You’ll also learn a lot about the city’s history and architecture along the way.
For the best experience, I’d highly recommend booking a cruise in the afternoon to (fingers crossed) enjoy some sunshine. You might also prefer a romantic dinner cruise to admire the city at golden hour.
6. Experience Night of the Museums
A can’t-miss event in May, the European Night of Museums (Nuit des Musées) invites locals and tourists alike to visit Paris’s museums after dark, for free! In Paris alone, over 1,800 museums participate, including major institutions like the Louvre Museum and the Musée d'Orsay.
During this one-night-only event, a special program takes place throughout the city featuring guided tours, open-air events, live shows, concerts, artistic events, and much more. You’ll definitely want to browse the event itinerary for all of the info.
This year, the European Night of Museums takes place on May 23rd, 2026.
It’s worth noting that Nuit des Musées isn’t limited to Paris. The event takes place all across France and Europe. I’ll personally be visiting some of the best museums in Strasbourg this year.
7. Browse Open-Air Markets
The open-air markets are one of the easiest ways to experience everyday Parisian life. One of the things I love most about living in France is how deeply local shopping is still woven into daily routines. People still shop at the street markets and independent vendors, especially once the weather warms up.
On a sunny spring morning, there’s nothing better than wandering the stalls and picking up some seasonal produce. For a spring picnic in Paris, I’d look for strawberries, radishes, carrots, apricots, and other easy-to-prep fruits and vegetables. Don’t forget some cheese, charcuterie and a baguette too!
The Bastille Market is one of the largest and liveliest markets located in the 11th arrondissement. Here you can peruse stalls of fresh produce, cheese, meats and flowers. There’s also a small selection of antiques and crafts if you’re looking for a unique Paris souvenir!
If the weather turns rainy, Paris’s covered markets are the perfect places to take cover. The Marché des Enfants Rouges is the oldest covered market in the city with vendors selling a variety of local vegetables, fruits, cheese, meat and seafood. After browsing the variety of market stalls, grab a bite to eat from one of the several international food stands. The couscous used to be my favorite dish when I lived in Paris.
Remember to plan your market adventures. Opening days and times vary, with many markets operating only once or twice a week. As with most activities in Paris, it’s best to go early to avoid the crowds. Weekdays (Monday through Friday) are generally calmer than busy weekends too.
And don’t forget to bring a French market bag if you really want to look like a local while hauling all of your food finds.
8. Uncover Treasures at the Flea Markets
Beyond food, spring is also a fantastic time to explore Paris’s flea markets and brocantes.
The most famous by far is Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, located just north of the city in the 18th arrondissement. It’s the largest flea market in the world, made up of 12 covered markets and several shopping streets. You could easily spend an entire day browsing furniture, mirrors, lighting, books, jewelry, artwork, and small collectibles. The flea market is held every Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Just be sure to have a map handy when you go.
Spring is actually the best time to visit les puces. Many brocanteurs (second-hand dealers) replenish their inventory during the winter months, which means you’ll see some of the newest pieces before summer crowds arrive. And if you fall in love with something large (like a mirror or table) many vendors can arrange international shipping for an additional cost.
If you’re a bookworm like myself, then you should also make time to browse the bouquinistes along the Seine River. These green bookstalls line the riverbanks on both the Right and Left Banks, selling second-hand books, vintage postcards, prints, and little treasures, often for just a few euros.
9. Catch the French Open for Tennis
The French Open takes place every May in Paris. One of the most prestigious tennis tournaments in the world, it attracts thousands of spectators to the city.
This year, the tournament runs from May 18 to June 7, 2026. Sports fans visiting around that time won’t want to miss it! Even if you’re not a die-hard tennis fan, the atmosphere alone is worth experiencing. The world’s top players compete here, and celebrities are often spotted in the stands too.
Matches are held at the Roland Garros Stadium located near Porte d’Auteuil on the edge of the Bois de Boulogne. The stadium hosts this Grand Slam tournament every year and is renowned for its unique clay courts.
If you’re lucky enough to snag tickets, plan for a full afternoon outdoors. With spring sunshine (hopefully) on your side, don’t forget sunglasses and a hat for one of the biggest sporting events on the Paris calendar!
10. Picnic Like a Parisian
There's no better way to enjoy a sunny spring day in Paris than with a leisurely picnic in one of the city's picturesque green spaces. Pick up a fresh baguette, cheese, and seasonal fruits from a local market, then head to a tranquil spot like the Champ de Mars at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont or the Jardin du Luxembourg (my personal favorite).
If you're lucky enough to be in the capital during cherry blossom season, your timing couldn’t be better! Many of Paris’s parks are packed with these pretty pink trees.
Another popular picnic spot is along the banks of the Seine River. In busier areas, you’ll find a mix of locals and tourists. It’s an excellent place to meet new people!
Spread out a blanket, uncork a bottle of wine (don’t forget an opener), and partake in some casual people-watching just like the Parisians do. For more tips, don’t miss my full guide on how to picnic in Paris (including what to pack and wear to go)!
If you want to keep things simple, you can also grab a sandwich from a nearby boulangerie and find a sunny bench. Check out how I picnicked on my most recent trip to Paris.
11. Explore the City by Foot
Spring in Paris is made for walking. The temperatures are perfectly mild, meaning you won’t be shivering nor sweating, and every neighborhood has something unique to discover.
Being a flâneur is one of my favorite Parisian pastimes. It’s a French word that means someone who wanders around without a strict plan or destination in mind. Walking around the city, you never know what you’ll come across! Sometimes it’s boutiques, cafés, restaurants, or even galleries and museums.
Here are a few neighborhoods that are perfect to explore on foot:
Le Marais
Montmartre
Canal Saint-Martin
Latin Quarter
If you’re more of a type A planner, there are plenty of guided walking tours to help you make the most of each quartier. I’d also look into self-guided options that you can find online for free!
12. Take a Day Trip
While Paris offers several things to do in spring, even visitors may need a break from the city. Fortunately, there are many destinations around Paris to see, whether you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
The Palace of Versailles is probably the most popular day trip from Paris. Just outside the city, the château’s lavish halls and gorgeous gardens really shine in spring. If you time your visit right, you can catch the famous Musical Fountains Show, when water features dance to Baroque music.
Another spring favorite is Giverny, the village that was home to Claude Monet. Monet’s house and gardens reopen around early April, just as flowers begin to bloom. Tulips, peonies, irises, roses, wisteria, and azaleas fill the gardens, and by late May you may even spot the first water lilies in the ponds that inspired his most famous paintings.
There are also plenty of stunning castles surrounding Paris that are easy to reach by public transportation. One of my favorites is the Château de Fontainebleau. It’s usually less crowded than Versailles but just as impressive
Wine lovers may want to head east to the Champagne region. The city of Reims is about two hours from Paris by train and serves as a gateway to famous champagne houses like Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot. Be sure to book well in advance (sometimes months ahead) if you have a specific house in mind!
13. Celebrate Easter in Paris
If you’re visiting Paris during Easter (Pâques, as it’s called in France), there are numerous ways to celebrate across the city. Churches hold special services, including Easter masses at Notre-Dame Cathedral and Saint-Sulpice. You may also come across concerts, workshops, and Easter egg hunts.
It’s worth noting that Easter Sunday and Easter Monday are public holidays in France. Many shops and smaller businesses close, and some museums or restaurants may operate on reduced hours, so be sure to plan ahead.
Even if you don’t celebrate Easter, you absolutely won’t want to miss the chocolate. Parisian chocolatiers take Easter very seriously. Many fill their windows with elaborate chocolate displays that feel more like art installations.
Alongside classic eggs and bunnies, there’s a uniquely French tradition of chocolate bells (cloches) and fish (poissons). I would highly recommend popping into a pâtisserie or chocolate shop to pick up some as a souvenir.
For even more info, I have an entire guide on how the French celebrate Easter that covers traditions, foods, and customs across the country.
14. Plan a Few Rainy Day Activities
It’s easy to be an optimist when visiting a romantic city like Paris. But spring showers are hard to avoid, so it’s smart to have a few indoor activities ready just in case!
Rainy days are the perfect excuse to visit Paris’s world-class museums. If it’s your first time in the City of Light, you definitely won’t want to miss the Louvre, Musée d'Orsay and Centre Pompidou (currently closed for renovations).
Keep in mind that museums tend to fill up quickly when rain is in the forecast. Booking tickets in advance is always a good idea! If you plan to visit several museums, consider the Paris Pass which allows you to skip the lines at many of the popular museums.
Another lovely rainy-day option is exploring Paris’s covered passages. These historic arcades are mostly clustered between the 9th arrondissement and the Palais-Royal area and are lined with boutiques, cafés, and antique shops. Galerie Vivienne is one of the most beautiful, especially when the rain taps against the glass ceiling! It also houses one of my favorite French candle brands, Mad et Len.
On drizzly days, you might also see a play or film. Paris has fantastic cinemas, particularly in the Latin Quarter, and if you love classic films, then check out La Filmothèque.
And if all else fails, you can always wait out sudden downpours at a café or bookshop.
15. Stop and Smell the Roses at the Musée Rodin
Photo credit: © Musée Rodin
The beautiful seven-acre sculpture garden at the Musée Rodin is one of the most peaceful places in Paris.
As the weather warms, roses begin to bloom throughout the grounds, reaching their peak in May and early June. Visit the museum dedicated to the work of Auguste Rodin, then stroll the garden paths that lead you to some of the French sculptor’s most famous works, including The Thinker and The Kiss.
Entrance to the garden costs just a few euros and is absolutely worth it, even if you don’t plan to visit the indoor galleries. If you’re visiting Paris in spring, this is one of the best spots to spend a slow, sunny afternoon.
What to Do in Paris in Spring 2026
Looking for things to do in Paris in March, April or May? Here are the top events and festivals you don’t want to miss this spring:
Things to Do in Paris in March
Mar. 8: Paris Half-Marathon
Mar. 12-15: Salon du Tourisme
Mar. 17-July 5: Renoir Drawings at Musée d'Orsay
Mar. 20-22: Saut Hermès Grand Palais
Mar. 21-28: Cinema du Reel Film Festival
Mar. 24-July 26: Matisse 1941-1954 at Grand Palais
Mar. 26-29: Drawing Now Paris
Mar. 27-May 31: Foire du Trône
Things to Do in Paris in April
Mar. 17-July 5: Renoir Drawings at Musée d'Orsay
Mar. 24-July 26: Matisse 1941-1954 at Grand Palais
Mar. 27-May 31: Foire du Trône
Apr. 3: Good Friday (Vendredi Saint)
Apr. 5-6: Easter Sunday and Monday (Pâques)
Apr. 8-12: PAD Paris Art + Design
Apr. 9-12: Art Paris Art Fair
Apr. 12: Paris Marathon
Apr. 17-19: Paris Book Fair
Apr. 30-May 11: Foire de Paris
Things to Do in Paris in May
Mar. 17-July 5: Renoir Drawings at Musée d'Orsay
Mar. 24-July 26: Matisse 1941-1954 at Grand Palais
Mar. 27-May 31: Foire du Trône
Apr. 30-May 11: Foire de Paris
May 1: Labor Day (Fête du Travail)
May 8: Victory Day
May 9: Europe Day (Journée de l’Europe)
May 11-18: Jazz Festival
May 14: Ascension
May 18-June 7: French Open
May 21-24: Taste of Paris
May 23: European Night of Museums
May 24-25: Pentecost and Whit Monday
May 25-31: Paris Beer Festival
May 28-June 23: Festival of St. Denis
May 31: Mother’s Day (Fête des Mères)
Are you visiting Paris in spring? What spring events and activities are on your Paris itinerary? Let me know in the comments below.
