Paris in May: Weather, Things to Do, and Where to Go (2024 Travel Guide)
Visiting Paris in May? Here’s what to expect and best things to do in May 2023.
Paris in May is the perfect time to experience the city’s charm and beauty. With a perfect balance of pleasant weather and manageable crowds, it’s an ideal time to explore the sights and sounds of the City of Lights. As the last traces of winter fade away and the city begins to bloom, Paris transforms into a charming outdoor paradise.
The days start to get longer, giving you more time to discover the city’s many attractions. The summer crowds have yet to fully descend.
In May, you can leisurely stroll through Paris, admiring the colorful parks and gardens, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Arc de Triomphe, and sip a drink at a sunny café.
Overall, Paris in May offers a wonderful blend of great weather, bustling city life, and a touch of tranquility.
If you’re planning a trip to Paris in May, use this Paris Travel Guide to help you navigate your trip and the Table of Contents to skip around to what best suits your needs.
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VISITING PARIS IN MAY
Visiting Paris in May: What to Expect?
So, if you’re planning a visit, check the forecast beforehand. Don’t be caught off guard by unexpected heat waves or sudden downpours.
And, while you’re packing, be sure to throw in some layers. You never know when the temperature might take a dip. You’ll want to be prepared for those chilly moments, like the morning temperature in Paris and the chilly evenings. Trust us; we’ve learned the hard way.
VISITING PARIS IN MAY
Is Paris in May Busy?
While the city can be busy during this time, it’s less crowded than during the peak summer months (Paris in June and Paris in July), making it easier to move around and enjoy the city’s ambiance.
The beginning of the month sees fewer tourists, while the end of the month gets a bit more crowded.
Pro Tip: With four public holidays in France during this month, the city becomes particularly attractive to the French for weekend getaways. While crowds are still manageable if you visit Paris in May, booking your accommodations and tickets to popular attractions in advance is crucial, particularly during long weekends.
To avoid disappointment and not getting into a landmark you have your heart set on seeing, buy tours in advance. They do sell out.
What is paris famous for? Many great things!
I have compiled a list of the top Paris attractions that require advance tickets. To make things easier for you, I have included links to my preferred reliable providers.
- The Louvre Museum
- Versailles Palace
- Orsay Museum
- The Eiffel Tower
- The Catacombs of Paris
- Giverny Day Trips
Paris Museum Pass
With a Paris Museum Pass for 2, 4, or 6 days, you can enjoy free entry and avoid waiting in line at over 60 museums in and around Paris. This is a must to save a bit of money.
VISITING PARIS IN MAY
What Is the Weather Like in Paris in May?
Paris in May generally has good weather, despite occasional showers, chilly days, and even colder nights.
Even locals find May a mystery with its unpredictable weather. One minute the sun is shining bright, and the next, the skies are pouring down rain. But in general, this month of the year is a great time to find yourself in Paris.
VISITING PARIS IN MAY
Paris Temperature in May: Lows and High
The average high temperature in Paris in May is around 66° Fahrenheit (19°C), while the average low temperature is around 52° Fahrenheit (11°C).
However, it’s worth noting that temperatures can vary from day to day and year to year, so it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast before traveling to Paris to get a more accurate idea of what to expect.
Here’s the range of average high temperatures and daily low temperatures for May weather in Paris based on the past 30 years:
- Range of high temperatures during May: 51°F to 89°F (11°C to 32°C)
- Range of low temperatures during May: 33°F to 57° F (1°C to 14°C)
As you can see, both of these record-breaking extreme temperatures for Paris in May occurred during the past few years:
- Record May high temperature (1991-present): 89°F (32°C) in 2017
- Record May low temperature (1991-present): 33°F (1°C) in 2019
In the past decade, temperatures in Paris during May have typically ranged from the upper 70s to low-to-mid 80s, similar to April in Paris.
However, the high humidity during this month can make it feel warmer.
It’s wise to pack short-sleeved shirts and layers to adjust to the fluctuating temperatures throughout the day.
Mornings may start chilly in the 50s, then rise steeply during the afternoon, only to cool down again in the evening. If you plan to be out most of the day, prepare for these temperature changes.
It’s worth noting that the end of May in Paris is generally warmer than the beginning of the month.
VISITING PARIS IN MAY
How Much Rain Does Paris Get in May?
In Paris, May is typically a moderately rainy month, although the amount of rainfall can vary from year to year.
The average rainfall in Paris in May is around 2.6 inches (65 mm) of precipitation, with rain falling on approximately 13 days throughout the month.
Weather in locations that are popular day trips from Paris in May
If you have plans for a day trip outside Paris during your visit in May, you can be confident that the weather in nearby locations like Versailles Palace, the Loire Valley, and Giverny will be quite similar to Paris’ weather in May and occasionally even a bit warmer by a degree or two.
VISITING PARIS IN MAY
What to Pack for May Weather in Paris
May is not typically as rainy as some other months of the year, such as October and November, but it’s still a good idea to be prepared for rain by bringing an umbrella or raincoat, just in case.
When packing for Paris in May, it’s important to be prepared for mild and changeable weather, as well as the possibility of occasional rain.
Here are some items you may want to consider including in your packing list:
- Layers of clothing: Paris in May can have fluctuating temperatures, so packing layers such as a light sweater or cardigan, a jacket, and a scarf can help you adjust to different temperatures throughout the day.
- Comfortable walking shoes: Paris is a city best explored on foot, so pack comfortable, sturdy walking shoes.
- Umbrella or raincoat: As April showers can linger into May, packing an umbrella or a raincoat can be useful in case of rain.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen: As the weather becomes warmer and sunnier in May, it’s important to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays with sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Dressier attire: Paris is known for its chic and sophisticated style. If you plan on dining at upscale restaurants or attending the opera, you may want to pack dressier attire.
- Electrical adapter: If you’re traveling from a country with a different electrical outlet, pack an electrical adapter to use your electronic devices. Here is a cute and compact adapter that works in Paris.
- Backpack or crossbody bag: A backpack or crossbody bag can be a convenient and secure way to carry your essentials while exploring Paris. Overall, packing for Paris in May requires a balance of practicality and style, focusing on comfortable and versatile clothing suitable for mild weather conditions.
VISITING PARIS IN MAY
Things to Do in Paris in May
May is a month filled with numerous festivals, concerts, and exciting events to enjoy. From music festivals, art exhibitions, to cultural celebrations, there is always something to do.
May offers an array of options to choose from. With the weather getting warmer, it’s the perfect time to explore the outdoors and attend these fun events.
VISITING PARIS IN MAY
La Nuit des Musées (Museums Night)
Date: May 13th
Hours: 7PM – 1AM
Admission: Free (some events for certain museums still require a ticket and cost money).
The Nuit des Musées, or Night of the Museums, is an annual cultural event held in Paris on the third Saturday in May.
During this event, museums across the city open their doors to the public, offering free admission to visitors from 7 pm until 1 am.
In addition to the standard exhibitions, visitors can enjoy various special events and activities, including concerts, performances, workshops, and guided tours.
Many museums also offer unique experiences, such as night-time visits and access to areas usually closed to the public.
La Nuit des Musées is a popular event in Paris, drawing large crowds from all over the Paris and beyond.
Some of the most famous museums participating in the event include the Louvre Museum, Musée d’Orsay, and Centre Pompidou.
While admission to the museums is free during the Night of Museums, some special events or exhibitions may require an advanced booking or a separate fee. It’s always a good idea to check the event’s official website or the museum you plan to visit for up-to-date information and details about any additional activities or requirements.
Activities that require advance booking sell out very fast. Make sure to act when bookings open.
VISITING PARIS IN MAY
Music Festivals and Outdoor Events in May
May is a great month to enjoy musical events in Paris. The city kicks off its music festival season in May with various options for all genres.
VISITING PARIS IN MAY
Musical Events in Paris in May
- The Paris Jazz Festival in Saint Germain-des-Prés is a local favorite and a popular event each summer. It takes place from May 10 – 17 2023, featuring jazz music from several artists
- The Villette Sonique Festival takes place in May 2023 (exact dates to be determined) at the Park de la Villette.
La Foire du Trône
The Foire du Trône, Europe’s oldest and France’s largest funfair, is returning to Paris this spring.
From March 31 to May 29, 2023, the fair will take place on the Pelouse de Reuilly lawn in the 12th arrondissement, with various rides and attractions and delicious carnival food. Soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this classic Parisian event.
Fête du Pain (Paris Bread Festival)
Location: Held annually in the Parvis de Notre Dame. Located in the 4th arrondissement of Paris (in the heart of Île de la Cité)
Admission: Free
The festival celebrates traditional French bread-making and features numerous activities, demonstrations, and workshops related to bread.
During the festival, you can see bakers and pastry chefs showcase their skills, learn about the history and culture of bread-making, taste different types of bread, and even participate in bread-making workshops.
It’s an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in French food culture and enjoy some delicious bread while you’re at it.
Pro Tip: This is an excellent event for a rainy day in Paris because it takes place under a massive canvas pavilion.
VISITING PARIS IN MAY
Other Notable Must-Sees in Paris in May
Climb the Eiffel Tower
If the sun is out and the sky is clear, head up to the top of the Eiffel Tower for some of the most spectacular views of Paris.
From above, you can take in breathtaking panoramas of the Seine River and gaze upon the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Invalides, Sacré-Coeur, and Notre Dame Cathedral.
To the west, you can glimpse the bustling business district of La Défense and the striking architecture of the Louis Vuitton Foundation.
Click below to get your ticket to the Eiffel Tower with Summit Access, which will likely sell out. Please buy in advance if you have your heart set on climbing the Eiffel Tower, it is one of Paris’s main attractions.
VISITING PARIS IN MAY
Take a River Cruise on the Seine River
Seine River Cruises are a great way to experience Paris. They often include a meal or beverage of choice and have a glass-enclosed room on the boat if you’d rather be inside and not in the open air. There are many to choose from, here are a few we highly recommend.
- Paris: 1-Hour River Seine Cruise – This tour takes you past all the classic sites in Paris, the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame.
- Seine River Panoramic Dinner Cruise – Very fancy. Admire the iconic monuments of the French capital as you dine on board with a delicious 2-course meal! Yum. (105 minutes)
- Evening Cruise with Dinner on the River Seine – Enjoy an à la carte dinner on-board whilst cruising on the River Seine. (2.5 hours)
VISITING PARIS IN MAY
Take a Day Trip to a Famous Place Outside Paris
The Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is a magnificent royal chateau located in Versailles, France, approximately 12 miles (20 kilometers) southwest of Paris.
The palace was originally built in the 17th century as a hunting lodge for King Louis XIII, but was later expanded by his son, King Louis XIV, to become one of the most opulent and grandest palaces in the world.
Versailles was the principal residence of the French kings from the time of Louis XIV until the French Revolution in 1789. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Below are some tours we recommend.
- Palace of Versailles & Gardens with Transportation – This is a skip-the-line tour with audio guide. Avoid navigating the metro system on your own and arrive relaxed with easy roundtrip transportation.
- Versailles Palace Ticket with Transfer – This tour is a skip-the-line ticket. Enjoy a choice of departure points for your bus transfer from central Paris.
VISITING PARIS IN MAY
Visit Giverny to see Claude Monet’s Home and Gardens
I highly recommend adding a visit to Giverny, the small village in Normandy where the renowned impressionist artist Claude Monet spent the last half of his life, to your bucket list.
Just 45 miles or about 1 hour and 15-30 minutes outside of Paris, Giverny is an easy and quick day trip that offers an unforgettable experience, especially for Monet enthusiasts
Several tours pick you up in Paris, drive you to Giverny and give you a private or small group tour with an experienced guide.
Here are a few,
- Monet Impressionism Tour to Giverny from Paris – Enjoy this half-day trip to Claude Monet’s home and gardens. Choose between a public tour or a private tour in your preferred language and explore the home and its beautiful surroundings.
- Giverny: Monet’s Garden Half-Day Tour from Paris – this is a private tour. It includes skip-the-line, pick up and drop off from hotel by a private driver and a private guided tour.
- Guided Day Trip to Monet’s Garden in Giverny – Explore the beautiful village and home in Upper Normandy where the Impressionist artists, Claude Monet spent the last 40 years of his life.
VISITING PARIS IN MAY
Other things to do in Paris in May
Hang at a Local Café and People Watch
Parisians have elevated the art of people-watching to a whole new level, and there’s no better place to do it than from the comfort of a cozy cafe.
Whether you’re on a busy street corner in the Marais or a quiet side street in Montmartre, there’s always something interesting in Paris. From fashionable locals to stylish tourists, each person passing by tells a unique story.
In Paris, a cafe is more than just a place to grab a drink; it’s a social institution where friends gather to catch up, writers scribble away on their notebooks, and strangers easily strike up conversations.
One of the best ways to experience this is by taking a leisurely stroll through the streets and stopping at one of the many picturesque café-terraces that begin to appear in late May.
VISITING PARIS IN MAY
Throw Down a Blanket at a Park with a Picnic
Have a picnic at one of the many parks like the Parc de la Villette.
Grab a sandwich, some cheese, a baguette at one of the local markets, and a blanket and go to one of the many parks.
Jardin Du Luxembourg will fully bloom with roses, and other varietals as wooden boats float on Parisian ponds. Hang out in the cool shade with locals at the Medici Fountain.
Or head to the Place du Panthéon, about an 8 minutes walk from the gardens, to get one of the best panoramic views of Paris.
VISITING PARIS IN MAY
Canal Saint-Martin
Canal Saint Martin occupies most of the 10th arrondissement of the city and is where all the locals hang out. It’s a canal full of water and lovely in the summer.
Bars and coffee shops spill out onto the water’s edge, and small boutique stores sell unique and vintage wares.
VISITING PARIS IN MAY
Where to Stay in Paris in May
The Latin Quarter, the 11th arrondissement, is one of our favorite neighborhoods to stay in. It has a very bohemian vibe. We’ve written about 11 Best Hotels Latin Quarter Hotels, so below are a few more options in other neighborhoods.
➡️ Luxury Option: Hôtel D’Aubusson
This hotel is located in the 6th arrondissement. The Louver Museum and Noter Dame Cathedral are both a 10-minute walk away. This is a beautiful hotel giving guests a luxury experience with a jazz bar and an interior courtyard with a fountain. A spectator indoor pool is also on site.
➡️ Moderate Option: Hotel Chaplain Paris Rive Gauche
Located just a few yards from Luxembourg Gardens, in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, this moderately priced hotel in Saint-Germain boasts a chic and modern ambiance.
The rooms are colorful and luxurious, but what we love most about this hotel is its stylish dining area and beautiful floral courtyard, perfect for enjoying breakfast or a refreshing drink.
Discover the perfect lodging option for your Parisian getaway, whether it be a hotel, guesthouse, holiday apartment, or private apartment. With all options available, you can book your preferred accommodation by using the map below.
Paris in May: FAQs
May can be a great time to visit Paris! The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with warm and sunny days becoming more common as the month progresses.
Additionally, several events and festivals take place in May, such as the Fête de la Victoire on May 8, which celebrates the end of World War II in France, and the Nuit des Musées, a night when museums stay open late and offer free admission to visitors.
However, remember that May is also a busy tourist season in Paris, so you may encounter larger crowds and longer lines at popular attractions. Overall, if you don’t mind a bit of a crowd, May can be an excellent time to visit Paris.
Paris can be warm in May, although the temperature varies daily and yearly.
On average, the high temperature in Paris in May is around 66° Fahrenheit (19°C), which can feel warm and pleasant, especially when the sun is shining.
However, the low temperature in May is around 52° Fahrenheit (11°C), which can feel cool, particularly in the mornings and evenings.
Packing layers and checking the weather forecast ahead of time is a good idea to be prepared for any temperature fluctuations. Additionally, while May is generally a mild and comfortable month, occasional heatwaves or sudden rain showers can occur, so it’s always a good idea to be prepared for any weather.
Paris is typically not too hot in May, although temperatures occasionally reach warm levels.
According to weather statistics, the hottest temperature Paris has seen in May is around 93° Fahrenheit (34°C) , which occurred in May 2018.
However, it’s important to note that such high temperatures are rare, and the average high temperature in May is around 66° Fahrenheit (19°C).
Checking the weather forecast before your trip to Paris is always wise. May can be a comfortable time to visit the city, with temperatures warming up nicely without becoming too hot.
Overall, April and May can be excellent times to visit Paris, with their unique advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the best time to visit will depend on your personal preferences and what you want to experience during your trip. May will be a bit more crowded and April will be a bit more rainy, but not much.
Paris can be quite busy in May, as it is one of the peak tourist seasons in the city.
The weather is typically mild and comfortable, with warm and sunny days which attract large crowds. The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre Dame Cathedral can be quite crowded during this time, and lines for tickets and entry may be longer than usual. Several events and festivals occur throughout May, such as the Fête de la Victoire on May 8 and the Nuit des Musées, which can attract large crowds of visitors. With some planning and patience, it’s still possible to enjoy all that Paris has to offer during the busy month of May.
Avoid disappointment by buying tours, reservations, and tickets in advance.
VISITING PARIS IN MAY
What to know before booking your trip to Paris in May
Parisians take holidays during the summer months. So be aware that some shops, offices, and restaurants will be closed on certain holidays.
Here are a few,
- April 22 to May 9 school holidays in Paris. It’s typical for parents to take a week off and plan a family trip to other parts of France or Europe. If you’re planning to visit Paris during this time, it’s crucial to make advance bookings for train and flight tickets to and from Paris to avoid last-minute hassles.
- May 1 is La Fête du Travail or Labor Day. Many shops will be closed, and this could affect some tourist attractions.
- May 8 is Armistice Day
- May 18 is Ascension Day
- May 29 is Pentecost Day
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Final Thoughts: Paris in May
May is the ideal month to visit Paris if you want to experience the city’s enchanting beauty and charm. You can expect the perfect blend of pleasant weather and moderate crowds, making it the ideal time to discover the sights and sounds of the City of Lights.
As winter fades away and the city begins to blossom, Paris transforms into a delightful outdoor haven.
