The Ultimate Guide to an Unforgettable Summer in Paris: Activities, Tips & Hidden Gems

Summer in Paris is truly a magical experience, transforming the City of Lights into a vibrant hub of outdoor activities, blooming gardens, and long, balmy evenings. Whether you’re planning your first visit or you’re a long-time resident looking to rediscover its charm, this comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your Parisian summer. We’ll cover everything from expected temperatures and essential packing tips to must-try foods, top attractions, recommended hotels, and even delightful day trips. After living here for over two decades, I can confidently say that the summer months in this beautiful city never cease to amaze!

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Why Visit Paris in Summer?

Summer in Paris offers a unique charm that draws visitors from around the globe. It’s the ideal time to experience the city’s lively outdoor culture, with a plethora of reasons to pack your bags and head to the French capital:

1. Enchanting Evening Strolls: Enjoy romantic, long nighttime walks along the Seine, illuminated by the city’s iconic lights.
2. Vibrant Cafe Culture: The warm weather is perfect for lingering at a sidewalk cafe, sipping a glass of wine, and watching the world go by.
3. Gardens in Full Bloom: Paris’s most beautiful and iconic gardens, such as the Palais Royal and Luxembourg Gardens, burst with vibrant flowers, offering breathtaking scenery and fragrant air.
4. Delightful Treats: Indulge in refreshing scoops of artisanal ice cream as you explore the charming streets.
5. Extended Daylight Hours: The sun sets later in the summer, giving you more daylight hours to explore and enjoy Parisian life.
6. Paris Plage: Experience the unique “Paris Plage” event, where sections of the Seine’s banks are transformed into temporary city beaches, complete with sand, deckchairs, and activities.
7. Lively Atmosphere: The city truly comes alive with locals and tourists alike enjoying the pleasant weather, making for excellent people-watching opportunities at all hours.

Summer Weather in Paris

Parisian summers generally boast beautiful, comfortable weather, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. You can typically expect lows to hover around 58-61°F (approximately 14-16°C) and highs reaching a pleasant 75-79°F (approximately 24-26°C). While the weather is often ideal, it’s worth noting that Paris can experience occasional heatwaves or sudden rain showers, so packing adaptable layers is always a smart choice.

When is Summer in Paris?

In 2025, the official summer season in Paris extends from Saturday, June 21st, to Monday, September 22nd. These months offer the best opportunities to enjoy all the summer festivities and sights the city has to offer.

Top Things to Do in Paris During Summer

Paris truly shines in the summer, offering a seemingly endless array of activities. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Parisian, these ideas will help you make the most of your time in the City of Love.

Experience a Parisian River Cruise on the Seine

There’s something undeniably magical about a Seine river cruise. Having sailed countless times, the enchantment never fades. Seeing Paris from the water, with its magnificent bridges, historic landmarks, and vibrant riverside life, offers a unique perspective. It’s a perfect activity, whether it’s your inaugural trip or your tenth, or even if you call Paris home!

Book your Seine river cruise here!

Book a Beautiful Hotel with Amenities

Choosing the right accommodation significantly enhances your Paris experience. For summer visits, a hotel with a pool can be a true godsend, allowing you to cool off and relax after a day of exploring, dining, and shopping. Even if you’re a local, consider a “staycation” to enjoy luxurious amenities, especially that sweet, sweet air conditioning on a hot summer day.

Hôtel d’Aubusson

Located in the chic 6th arrondissement, Hôtel d’Aubusson is a personal favorite. This stunning hotel not only boasts a spectacular location but also features a luxurious pool and one of Paris’s best-kept secret hotel bars. It’s a confidential address favored by the well-heeled locals. Even if you’re not staying, pop in for a glass of their particularly fabulous kir, and in the evenings, enjoy live jazz with your drink.

Book a room at the Hôtel d’Aubusson here!

Maison Souquet

Perhaps Paris’s most romantic and sensual hotel, Maison Souquet was once a brothel and is now an exquisite property in the trendy 9th arrondissement. Near the vibrant SoPi (South Pigalle) area, where we once lived, you’ll find adorable shops on Rue des Martyrs and my favorite coffee shop, KB Cakeshop. Maison Souquet’s rooms are lavishly decorated with rich, jewel-toned velvet, and guests can enjoy a gorgeous pool and an exclusive bar offering tasty cocktails and light meals.

Book a room at the Maison Souquet here!

Maison Proust

The newly opened Maison Proust features an absolutely stunning pool and spa, making it an excellent choice for a summer escape when you want to combine sightseeing with relaxation. Guests can also enjoy a wellness center, sauna, and a serene terrace. Don’t miss the opportunity to dine at their fabulous restaurant or enjoy a cocktail at their sumptuous bar, even if you choose not to stay overnight.

Book a room at the Maison Proust here!

Hôtel de l’Abbaye

Another chic, discreet Parisian gem in the 6th arrondissement, Hôtel de l’Abbaye is especially delightful in summer. You can enjoy breakfast in their exclusive hotel garden, which feels like stepping into an elegant countess’s secret Parisian sanctuary. The entire hotel exudes the charm of a private Parisian mansion, with rooms adorned in luxurious fabrics like toile de jouy, velvet, and silk, and furnished with antiques. I’d happily move in permanently!

Book a room at the Hôtel de l’Abbaye here!

Hôtel La Comtesse

For those seeking charm without breaking the bank, Hôtel La Comtesse is a fantastic choice. What truly sets this hotel apart is that every single room offers breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower, ensuring a memorable and iconic Parisian experience.

Book a room at the Hôtel de la Comtesse here!

Of the hotels listed, Hôtel d’Aubusson, Maison Souquet, and Maison Proust all feature pools, making them exceptional choices for a refreshing summer stay in Paris!

Take a Behind-the-Scenes Bakery Tour

Paris is a foodie’s paradise, and while there are many fantastic food tours, this behind-the-scenes bakery tour with breakfast is truly special, especially if your time is limited. Imagine starting your day by exploring an authentic Parisian bakery, learning its secrets, and then indulging in freshly baked croissants, pain au chocolat, and an assortment of delicious breads. It’s an experience you’ll dream about long after your vacation ends!

Book your Behind-the-Scenes Bakery Tour with Breakfast here!

Visit Parisian Gardens

One of our favorite summer pastimes in Paris is to relax and wander through its many exquisite gardens. Each offers a unique atmosphere and a peaceful escape from the bustling city streets. Explore one, or try to visit them all:

• Jardin des Plantes
• Tuileries Garden
• Parc Monceau
• Place des Vosges
• Luxembourg Gardens
• Palais Royal Gardens

Explore World-Class Museums and Exhibits

Paris is a cultural mecca year-round, but summer brings a host of special exhibits alongside its permanent collections. Plus, museums often offer a welcome respite from the summer heat, as they are among the few places with air conditioning in Paris. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in art and history while staying cool!

The Louvre

Beyond its legendary permanent collections, the Louvre hosts incredible temporary exhibits during the summer months. Plan your visit to explore both the iconic masterpieces and any special showcases.

Louvre Couture

Lucky for summer visitors, the captivating Louvre Couture exhibit has been extended until August 24th, 2025! As Louvre members, we’ve explored this exhibit four times and can confirm its extensive nature, featuring over 100 outfits displayed throughout various permanent collections. Be sure to grab a map and allocate ample time. If it’s your first time at the Louvre, you might want to prioritize highlights like the Mona Lisa, then dedicate time to this fashion spectacle.

Book a ticket for the Louvre here!

Rodin Museum

The Rodin Museum is a favorite at any time of year, but it’s particularly enchanting in summer when the rose garden is in full bloom. Explore Rodin’s magnificent sculptures displayed both inside his former home and throughout the fragrant gardens. Don’t forget to enjoy a coffee at the charming garden cafe, perhaps “à emporter” (to go), as you stroll and admire the art and nature.

Book a ticket for the Rodin Museum here!

Musée d’Art Moderne

The permanent collection at the Musée d’Art Moderne offers free entry, making it an accessible cultural stop. Be sure to visit the Dufy room to marvel at “The Electricity Fairy,” a massive work composed of 250 panels created for the 1937 Universal Exhibition, depicting the story of electricity through two historical lenses. This summer, the museum also features two fantastic special exhibits.

Matisse and Marguerite at the Musée d’Art Moderne (until August 24th, 2025)

This exhibit is a must-see! “Matisse and Marguerite” brings together over 110 works by Matisse, delving into his profound relationship with his eldest daughter, Marguerite Duthuit-Matisse. Discover rarely, if ever, seen drawings that offer intimate insights into their bond and his artistic process.

Book a ticket for the Musée d’Art Moderne here!

(Free entry to the permanent collections)

Gabriele Münter at the Musée d’Art Moderne (until August 24th, 2025)

Secure your spot to experience the first retrospective dedicated to the German Expressionist artist, Gabriele Münter. This exhibition unveils her world through 150 diverse works, including paintings, photography, engravings, and even intricate embroidery, offering a comprehensive look at her groundbreaking contributions to art.

Book a ticket for the Matisse and Marguerite exhibit at the Musée d’Art Moderne here!

(Free entry to the permanent collections)

Institut du Monde Arabe

The Institut du Monde Arabe is a cultural jewel offering fascinating Islamic cultural exhibits, an excellent restaurant and cafe, and truly breathtaking panoramic views of Paris from its rooftop terrace. It’s a fantastic spot for both cultural enrichment and leisurely enjoyment.

Le Mystère Cléopâtre

Explore the enduring myth of Cleopatra, the last true pharaoh, at “Le Mystère Cléopâtre.” Since her demise two millennia ago, her legend has been continuously reshaped through literature and cinema, captivating audiences with portrayals by icons from Sarah Bernhardt to Elizabeth Taylor. Before or after your visit to the exhibit, make sure to ascend to the rooftop terrace for magnificent views and dine at Dar Mima. This restaurant serves delicious food in a beautiful setting; don’t miss the briouates au fromage, hummus, Fatouche salad, or the chicken pastilla from their mezze menu. Everything is superb!

Book a ticket for the Mystère Cléopâtre exhibit at the Institut du Monde Arabe here!

Cité de l’Architecture

Dive into architectural wonders and historical insights at the Cité de l’Architecture, a fascinating museum dedicated to French and international architecture.

The Berlin Wall: A World Divided (until September 28th, 2025)

Journey back to one of history’s most startling events: the division of Berlin by the Berlin Wall in 1961, at the peak of the Cold War. This exhibit offers a rare glimpse into daily life in both East and West Berlin during the nearly three decades of separation, through a collection of 200 original and authentic objects. It’s a profound exploration of a city and a world divided.

Book a ticket for the Cité de l’Architecture

Thank you to the Musée d’Art Moderne, the Institut du Monde Arabe, the Musée Marmottan Monet, and the Musée de Cluny for inviting us to experience their current Summer exhibitions. All opinions are our own.

Enjoy Authentic Parisian Cafes

Paris is synonymous with its charming cafes, and choosing where to go can be delightfully overwhelming. To simplify your decision, we’ve curated a list of the best coffeeshops in Paris, categorized by neighborhood. If you’re looking for a quick list of top picks, our absolute favorites are KB Cakeshop, Partisan Cafe, Kitsune, Yellow Tucan, and Dose. Each offers a unique ambiance and superb coffee, perfect for a summer afternoon break.

Visit the Arc de Triomphe Rooftop at Sunset

Climb to the summit of the Arc de Triomphe for an unparalleled panoramic view of Paris. The cityscape, with its radiating avenues, becomes particularly breathtaking as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in fiery hues. It’s an iconic experience you won’t want to miss.

Book your ticket to visit the Arc de Triomphe at sunset here!

Champagne and Macarons at the Eiffel Tower

No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to its most famous landmark. Elevate your Eiffel Tower experience by taking the elevator to the summit and treating yourself to a celebratory glass of Champagne and a box of delicate macarons. It’s the perfect way to amplify the joy of the moment. (Book your skip-the-line ticket below; Champagne and macarons can be purchased on-site.) A small tip: even in summer, the top of the Eiffel Tower can be quite windy and cool, so bringing a light scarf is highly recommended!

Book your ticket to go to the summit of the Eiffel Tower here!

Learn to Make Macarons

Speaking of macarons, why not take a piece of Parisian culinary magic home with you? Learning to bake these delicate French treats is an unforgettable experience. Galeries Lafayette offers a highly-rated, step-by-step macaron-making course that is both fun and educational, ensuring you can recreate these delights long after your trip.

Book your spot to learn to make macarons here!

Indulge in Parisian Ice Cream

A leisurely walk through Paris on a warm summer day calls for a refreshing scoop of ice cream. The city boasts many fantastic spots for this delightful treat. Here are our top picks for the best ice cream in Paris:

Bachir

For a unique flavor experience, visit Bachir for authentic Lebanese achta ice cream, known for its distinct texture and delightful rosewater and pistachio flavors.

Une Glace à Paris

This artisanal ice cream shop crafts rich and creamy ice cream in a variety of sophisticated flavors. Our personal favorite is their unique and delicious riz au lait (rice pudding).

Glazed

When Glazed first opened its doors, we were practically neighbors, indulging in their creative flavors all summer long. They are renowned for their most unusual and inventive ice cream flavors, perfect for the adventurous palate.

Amorino

Since its Parisian debut on Ile Saint-Louis in 2002, Amorino has become a global favorite for its authentic Italian gelato. Despite its expansion, the quality remains exceptional. Our go-to flavors include The Inimitable (a chocolate and hazelnut blend akin to Nutella), Stracciatella (vanilla with chocolate shavings), salted butter caramel, and their organic Sicilian lemon sorbet. Every flavor is a winner, and for an extra special treat (and a great photo op!), add a frozen macaron on top of your cone!

Go Wine Tasting in Paris

Paris offers a fantastic setting to explore and learn about French wines. The city is home to numerous charming wine bars where you can sample exquisite vintages, from classic Bordeaux to crisp Loire Valley whites. It’s a perfect way to spend a relaxed summer evening.

Experience a Food and Wine Tour in the Marais

Food tours are a fantastic way to savor Paris’s culinary delights. This highly recommended food tour in the Marais district offers an exceptional value with 11 food tastings and 2 wine tastings. Having lived in the Marais for six years, I can attest to its status as one of Paris’s best areas for phenomenal French cuisine. It’s an immersive and delicious way to explore one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

Book your food and wine tour in the Marais here!

Capture Memories with a Parisian Photoshoot

While selfies are fun, nothing quite compares to professional photographs that beautifully capture the essence of your trip. Invest in a Parisian photoshoot to create stunning, lasting memories you can cherish, print, and even frame in your home, preserving the magic of your adventure.

Book your photoshoot in Paris here!

What to Wear for Summer in Paris

Dressing for summer in Paris can be tricky, as the weather is famously unpredictable. While you can expect warm, sunny days, sudden cool spells or rain showers are always a possibility. My golden rule for Parisian dressing, regardless of the season, is layers! Layers are your ultimate ally, protecting you from unexpected temperature drops, afternoon rains, and even those moments when the weather turns surprisingly tropical.

For a classic Parisian look, stick mostly to neutrals with subtle pops of color. Bold floral prints and excessively bright colors are generally less common in Parisian fashion. During the summer, I lean towards skirts and dresses in shades of black, white, brown, beige, cream, and small, delicate floral patterns. I often pair skirts with a chic top and always have a light sweater draped over my shoulders or tucked into my handbag. While I don’t typically wear blue jeans, a nice pair of black jeans, tailored black pants, or white jeans are perfect for cooler summer days.

When it comes to footwear, comfort and style are key. I absolutely adore these flat leather sandals, handmade in Greece, that I order on Etsy. They are incredibly elegant, comfortable, and well-made, perfect for walking 20,000+ steps a day on Parisian cobblestones. I usually replace them at the end of the season due to extensive wear, but they’ll likely last much longer if you don’t walk as much as I do! For evenings out, I opt for strappy leather sandals, and for those inevitable rainy days, a stylish pair of rain boots is a year-round essential. Complete your ensemble with a chic bag – I’m currently obsessed with this handmade Italian leather mini bag with a bamboo handle – and you’re perfectly ready for a stylish Parisian summer!

How to Get Around Paris in Summer

Navigating Paris in summer is part of the adventure. Here are the best ways to explore the city:

Walk!

Walking is, without a doubt, my top recommendation for getting around Paris. It’s an incredibly beautiful city, and there’s nothing quite like strolling from one end to the other on a lovely day. If you have the time, let your intuition guide you down charming streets and through hidden passages – you’re bound to stumble upon something fabulous.

Take the Metro

When time is of the essence, the Paris Metro is your best friend. Our metro system is fast, efficient, and relatively clean, connecting you to virtually every corner of the city with ease. It’s often the quickest way to cover longer distances.

Take an Uber

For evenings out when you’re dressed up and wearing uncomfortable shoes, or if you’re laden with shopping bags after a productive day, an Uber can be a convenient option. However, remember that during peak hours, traffic in Paris can be intense, so the Metro will likely get you to your destination much faster, unless it’s very early morning or late at night.

Take the Batobus

For a truly scenic, relaxing, and unique way to travel during summer in Paris, consider the Batobus. This river shuttle offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy Parisian landmarks from the serene waters of the Seine while conveniently hopping on and off at various popular attractions. While its route is somewhat limited, it’s a delightful experience worth trying at least once, even if just for leisure rather than direct transit.

Book your Batobus tickets here!

Where to Stay in Paris for Summer Vibes

Choosing the perfect neighborhood and hotel can significantly enhance your summer trip. Here are some top recommendations, including those with refreshing pools, ideal for warm Parisian days:

• Hotel du Louvre: Perfectly situated across from the Palais Royal, steps from the Louvre and Tuileries.
• Maison Souquet: A luxurious, romantic hotel in the 9th arrondissement, housed in a magnificent 19th-century private mansion, complete with a stunning bar and pool.
• Hotel d’Aubusson: A stunning hotel in the 6th arrondissement featuring a beautiful pool and one of the best, most discreet hotel bars in Paris.
• Hotel de l’Abbaye: A chic, hidden gem in the 6th arrondissement, renowned for its exquisite private garden, perfect for summer breakfasts.
• Maison Proust: A gorgeous new hotel featuring an absolutely dreamy La Mer spa and a magnificent pool, ideal for relaxation.
• Hotel Parister: A more affordable yet stylish option in the trendy 9th arrondissement, featuring a lovely pool.
• Hotel Delavigne: An excellent affordable option centrally located in the 6th arrondissement, near the vibrant Odéon area.
• Hotel La Comtesse: A 4-star hotel where every single room offers breathtaking Eiffel Tower views.
• Hotel du Jeu de Paume: Provides a magical stay on the Ile Saint-Louis, offering a peaceful escape across from the Marais.
• Hotel Parister: The perfect choice for a romantic getaway, complete with a gorgeous pool.
• Paris Boutik La Libraire: Experience a unique sleepover in a Parisian bookstore converted into a luxurious suite for two.
• Paris Boutik l’Epicerie: Offers the extraordinary chance to sleep in a traditional Parisian grocery store (epicerie) transformed into a luxury hotel suite for two.
• Paris Hotels with Eiffel Tower Views: A dedicated guide for hotels offering that iconic view.

Must-Try Foods in Paris During Summer

Summer in Paris is an exciting time for culinary adventures! To ensure you don’t miss any of the city’s gastronomic delights, download our Free Paris Food Guide. It’s perfect for printing and bringing along to check off your culinary bucket list.

Some highlights?

• Seek out the best croissant in Paris: Golden, flaky, and buttery perfection – a quintessential Parisian experience.
• Head to the Chapon chocolate mousse bar: Indulge in rich, airy chocolate mousse, a delightful treat for any chocolate lover.
• Try the best donuts in Paris: Discover surprisingly delicious and often gourmet takes on this classic treat.
• Experience a French bouillon at Le Bouillon Chartier: Enjoy traditional French fare in a lively, historic setting without breaking the bank.
• Try the best falafel in Paris: Especially vibrant in the Marais, these flavorful wraps are a perfect quick and tasty meal.

Easy Summer Day Trips from Paris

While Paris has endless charm, summer is also a fantastic time to explore the beautiful regions just beyond the city. These easy day trips offer a wonderful change of scenery and rich cultural experiences.

Versailles

A visit to the opulent Palace of Versailles is a convenient and essential day trip from Paris, especially for first-time visitors. It’s not just breathtakingly beautiful but also crucial for understanding a pivotal period in French history. To streamline your visit, consider booking a skip-the-line entry ticket to maximize your time exploring the palace and its magnificent gardens.

Book your skip-the-line Versailles entry ticket here!

For ultimate convenience, opt for a guided Versailles tour that includes round-trip transportation from Paris. These highly-rated tours provide comfortable coach travel with a professional driver, skip-the-line tickets, and an expert guide who brings the history of Versailles to life.

Book your Versailles skip-the-line tour & gardens access tour (w/ round-trip transportation from Paris) here!

Giverny

No Parisian itinerary is complete without a day trip to Giverny, home to Claude Monet’s enchanting house and gardens in Normandy. It’s like stepping into one of his famous Impressionist paintings. The most convenient way to experience Giverny from Paris is by booking a guided tour that includes comfortable transportation, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in this magical, artistic sanctuary. The tour linked below comes highly recommended!

Book your Giverny tour (w/ round-trip transportation from Paris) here!

Reims

Welcome to the heart of Champagne! Reims, just a 45-minute train ride from Paris, is the perfect destination for a day of bubbly exploration. Book your train tickets in advance with The Trainline (our go-to for European rail travel), then explore Champagne houses within the city, all conveniently within walking distance. It’s an effortlessly elegant day trip.

We recommend booking your train tickets with The Trainline (we use it to book all our train tickets within Europe!)

Epernay, Champagne

If your goal is to venture into the picturesque Champagne vineyards and indulge in tastings amidst the rolling hills, then Epernay is your ideal destination, located just outside Reims. While direct train access from Paris isn’t available, you can easily take a taxi from Reims to Epernay, or simplify your trip by booking a comprehensive day tour. The tour below will transport you directly from Paris to Epernay, organize an impressive 8 Champagne tastings, include a delicious lunch, and ensure a comfortable return to Paris. It’s a highly-rated and hassle-free way to experience the best of the Champagne region!

Book your Champagne tour with 8 tastings, lunch and transportation from Paris here!

Another popular and highly-rated option is the Veuve Clicquot Champagne Tour. This tour offers a complete experience, including organized sightseeing in Reims (featuring the famous Reims Cathedral), a visit to the Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin visitor center, a delightful lunch in the countryside, a vineyard visit, a guided tour of the iconic Veuve Clicquot Champagne house, and convenient round-trip transportation from Paris. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the world of one of Champagne’s most renowned brands!

Book your Veuve Clicquot tour experience including Reims sightseeing, a visit to the Veuve Clicquot visitor center, lunch in the Champagne region countryside, a vineyard visit, and a visit to the Veuve Clicquot Champagne house with round-trip transportation from Paris here!

Further Reading for Your Paris Trip

We hope this guide to visiting Paris in the summer has been incredibly helpful! To further assist in planning your unforgettable adventure, explore some of our other detailed articles:

• Read about the non-touristy things to do in Paris to discover unique local experiences.
• Make a list of enchanting small museums in Paris to add a dose of intimate culture to your itinerary.
• Decide which charming cafes in Paris to visit for that perfect coffee or pastry moment.
• Plan exactly where to eat in Paris to savor the city’s diverse culinary landscape.

With so many incredible experiences awaiting, your summer in Paris is sure to be truly unforgettable.

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