Paris in the Fall: Romantic Things to Do, See & Savor
- 4 de out. de 2023
- 20 min de leitura
Atualizado: há 2 dias
There’s something magical about Paris in the fall. The air turns crisp, the scent of crêpes drifts from street corners, and golden leaves crunch beneath your feet along cobblestone streets.
Cafés glow warmly against the cool evenings, and the city feels both quieter and more alive, as if Paris saves its most romantic side for autumn.
While Paris is enchanting year-round, I truly believe autumn is when its sophisticated soul shines brightest.
It’s a season of vibrant culture and breathtaking beauty! You can admire masterpieces at the Louvre without the crowds, wander through golden gardens, and join locals celebrating the grape harvest in Montmartre.
This guide is my love letter to the season, packed with my favorite things to do in Paris in autumn, from magical festivals to romantic strolls and unforgettable day trips.
👉 And because part of the joy is looking and feeling the part, don’t miss my complete style guide: What to Wear in Paris in the Fall.
Quick Guide: Paris in Autumn Highlights
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Why Visit Paris in the Fall? (An Autumn Lover’s Guide)
If that cozy, romantic image of autumn in Paris hasn’t convinced you yet, here are the practical reasons why this season is the best time for your trip:
Fewer Crowds, More Magic: With the summer rush over, the city exhales. Lines at the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay are shorter, and wandering through Montmartre’s cobbled streets feels more personal, as if Paris belonged just to you.
Perfect Sweater Weather: Crisp days averaging 15°C / 59°F are ideal for long walks. It’s the perfect excuse to wrap yourself in a scarf, warm up with a chocolat chaud, and explore without the draining heat of summer.
A Burst of Culture, La Rentrée: September marks the “cultural re-entry.” Paris buzzes with energy as new exhibitions, theatre premieres, and concerts launch, making it a prime season for culture lovers.
A Photographer’s Dream: The Tuileries and Luxembourg Gardens turn into carpets of gold and crimson, while ivy-clad façades in Le Marais blaze red. Every corner is postcard-perfect, bathed in autumn’s soft golden light.
In short, Paris in the fall combines lighter crowds, crisp sweater weather, a cultural season in full swing, and golden scenery, making it the most magical time of year to visit.
Top Autumn Festivals That Bring Paris to Life
Paris in the fall isn’t just about golden leaves and cozy cafés—it’s also a season of unforgettable festivals.
From the lively Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival with its parades and tastings, to the citywide glow of Nuit Blanche (an all-night celebration of contemporary art), to the spirited arrival of the year’s first wine on Beaujolais Nouveau Day, autumn brings Paris to life in ways no other season can.
Here's what you need to know to join in on these unforgettable celebrations.
Join the Party at the Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival (Fête des Vendanges)
On the famous artistic hill of Montmartre lies a small working vineyard — the last of its kind in Paris. Every October, the neighborhood throws a five-day street party to celebrate the harvest, and it’s one of my favorite fall events.
The streets around the Sacré-Cœur Basilica fill with food and wine stalls, artisans from across France, parades, and live music, creating a joyful, truly local atmosphere.
What to Know
When: Traditionally runs from Wednesday to Sunday on the second weekend of October → October 8–12, 2025.
Pro Tip: While the wine is the star, the food stalls are incredible. Sample regional cheeses, charcuterie, and sweets.
Get Ready to Walk: Montmartre is full of steep hills and cobblestones, so bring your comfiest shoes. To reach the Basilica, climb the almost 200 steps or go by funicular.
Welcome the New Wine at the Beaujolais Nouveau Festival
This isn’t one event but a nationwide French tradition. On the third Thursday of November, the first wine of the harvest, Beaujolais Nouveau, is released. Light, fresh, and fruity, it’s meant to be enjoyed immediately.
On this day, you’ll spot signs across Paris cafés and bistros proudly declaring: “Le Beaujolais Nouveau est arrivé!” (“The New Beaujolais has arrived!”).
What to Know
When: Begins The third Thursday of November.
How to Participate: Head to a cozy bistro or wine bar (bar à vin) in Saint-Germain or Le Marais; no tickets needed.
Pro Tip: Order a glass or a pitcher (un pot) and pair it with a cheese or charcuterie plate for the perfect Parisian autumn experience.
Paris in Gold: Best Parks and Gardens for Fall Foliage
While Paris is famous for its monuments, its parks are the city’s true heart and soul, especially in autumn.
Formal gardens and sprawling green spaces transform into breathtaking spectacles of gold, crimson, and amber, offering peaceful escapes and some of the most beautiful photo opportunities of the year.
Here are the top spots to soak in the magic of Paris in the fall.
Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg)
A classic Parisian escape, the Luxembourg Gardens are at their most enchanting in autumn.
The iconic green chairs sit on carpets of fallen leaves, students from the nearby Sorbonne gather on benches, and the Medici Fountain feels especially romantic in the soft light. The calm, sophisticated atmosphere captures everyday Paris at its best.
What to Know
Where: 6th arrondissement, near the Latin Quarter.
Best Moment: Late afternoon, when the light softens over the Medici Fountain.
Pro Tip: Grab a crêpe or warm drink from a kiosk near the Grand Bassin and enjoy it by the fountain — a simple, peaceful, and utterly Parisian way to spend an afternoon.
Tuileries Garden (Jardin des Tuileries)
Stretching between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde, the Tuileries offer a grand, formal setting perfect for a scenic stroll.
In autumn, its long tree-lined avenues form golden canopies, making you feel like you’re walking through a living painting, with glimpses of the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe in the distance.
What to Know
Where: 1st arrondissement, next to the Louvre.
Best Moment: Combine a morning museum visit with an afternoon garden stroll, then stay for golden hour photography.
Pro Tip: Walk the central path toward the Musée de l’Orangerie to admire Monet’s breathtaking Water Lilies.
The Gardens of the Palace of Versailles
A fall day trip to Versailles is pure magic. Designed by Le Nôtre, the legendary gardens take on a softer, more peaceful beauty without the summer crowds.
The fountains and statues framed by autumn colors are unforgettable, and the vast grounds mean you’ll always find a quiet corner to yourself.
What to Know
Where: Versailles, 40 minutes by RER train from Paris.
Best Moment: Arrive mid-morning for a half-day trip when the gardens are at their calmest.
Pro Tip: Rent a rowboat on the Grand Canal; seeing the palace and golden treeline reflected on the water is a spectacular, romantic experience that’s even better in the crisp autumn air.
Paris Museums in Autumn: A Guide to World-Class Exhibitions
Autumn in Paris isn’t only about golden leaves . It’s when the city’s cultural calendar bursts back to life.
After the quiet summer break, museums unveil major new exhibitions, theatres reopen with fresh productions, and entire festivals celebrate art in all its forms.
For culture lovers, there is simply no better season to visit. Here’s how to make the most of Paris’s cultural scene in the fall.
See Major Exhibitions Without the Lines
Fall is the season for blockbuster art exhibitions at world-famous institutions like the Louvre
and the Grand Palais. While these shows are spectacular, I personally find the intimate atmosphere of smaller museums even more rewarding.
I’ve seen some of my favorite exhibitions in these spaces, from Picasso at the Musée du Luxembourg to the breathtaking Impressionists at the Musée de l’Orangerie and Musée Marmottan Monet.
What to Know
Where: Musée d’Orsay, Musée de l’Orangerie, Musée du Luxembourg, and Musée Marmottan Monet.
Best Moment: Weekday mornings are the quietest.
Check Calendars Early: Exhibition schedules are posted months in advance. Check the official websites of the Louvre, Musée d'Orsay, and Centre Pompidou.
Book Online: Even in autumn, the top exhibitions can sell out. Always book timed tickets online.
Pro Tip: Planning to see multiple museums? The Paris Museum Pass saves money and lets you skip the ticket queues.
Experience the Festival d’Automne à Paris
For lovers of contemporary and avant-garde art, the Festival d’Automne is unmissable. From September through December, this curated program brings cutting-edge theatre, dance, music, and visual arts to venues across the city.
It’s a great way to discover the energy of modern Parisian culture.
What to Know
When: September to December each year.
Where: Multiple venues across Paris, from theatres to galleries.
How to Participate: Browse the full program at festival-automne.com and book tickets early.
For the Curious Traveler: go beyond the traditional sights.
Pro Tip: Use a show as an excuse to explore a new neighborhood — many venues are in less-touristy arrondissements.
A Hub of Autumn Fashion
Beyond museums and concerts, autumn is when Paris reaffirms its role as the world’s fashion capital.
The city buzzes with the energy of Paris Fashion Week (late September to early October) alongside the artistic spirit of the Festival d’Automne. The city-wide focus on creativity and style is the perfect inspiration for your own travel wardrobe.
👉 Ready to translate runway energy into chic, practical outfits for your trip? Don’t miss my complete guide: What to Wear in Paris in the Fall.
Unforgettable Romantic Experiences in Paris This Fall
Paris is already the world’s most romantic city; there’s a reason it’s called the City of Love. But in autumn, that romance feels even more tangible.
Golden sunsets, quiet riverside walks, and cozy cafés set the stage for unforgettable moments.
The golden hour light lingers longer, the crisp air invites hand-in-hand strolls, and the city’s most iconic views take on a soft, painterly glow.
Here are the most romantic ways to experience Paris in the fall:
Take a Sunset Cruise on the Seine River
Seeing Paris from the water is a classic for a reason. As the autumn day comes to a close, a bateau mouche cruise offers breathtaking views of landmarks bathed in warm, golden light.
Glide past the Louvre, admire the gargoyles of Notre-Dame against the twilight sky, and witness the magical moment the Eiffel Tower begins to sparkle.
What to Know
When: Book a cruise about 45 minutes before sunset (around 6:45 PM in October, 5:15 PM in November).
Where: Departures near the Eiffel Tower or Pont Neuf.
What to Wear: It gets chilly on the water. Bring an extra layer and a scarf for comfort on the open-air deck.
Pro Tip: Bateaux Mouches is the most famous company, but there are smaller operators. Always book online in advance, especially for weekends.
Pro Tip: For the ultimate romantic touch, book a dinner cruise — Parisian cuisine with the city’s landmarks as your backdrop.
Stroll the Banks of the Seine
Nothing is more romantic than a walk along the riverbanks of the Seine. It feels like stepping into a classic film: the green bouquinistes’ bookstalls, cobblestone quays, and lovers watching boats drift by.
Almost every romantic Paris movie includes at least one scene here, often the final kiss.
What to Know
Best Route: Start at Pont des Arts near the Louvre, walk toward Île de la Cité (with Notre-Dame views), and continue to Île Saint-Louis.
Best Moment: Early evening, when bridges and monuments glow in golden light.
Pair It With: Visit Shakespeare and Company or Notre-Dame before your walk, then stop for hot chocolate at Angelina or ice cream at Berthillon.
Pro Tip: For a quiet, romantic pause, head to the tiny Square du Vert-Galant at the tip of Île de la Cité. Or cross Pont Alexandre III for one of the city’s most stunning views of the Seine and Eiffel Tower.
Picnic in Place des Vosges
For a quieter, equally romantic experience, escape to the Place des Vosges in the Marais, Paris’s oldest square. In autumn, the lawns are blanketed with golden leaves, and the historic arcades provide a timeless backdrop. It’s the perfect setting for a simple yet chic Parisian picnic.
What to Know
Where: Place des Vosges, 4th arrondissement (combine with a stroll through the Marais).
Best Moment: Late afternoon, when the square glows in soft autumn light.
Pro Tip: Pick up fresh pastries, cheese, and wine from local shops nearby. Then settle under the trees, letting golden leaves fall gently around you.
Iconic Paris Attractions in a New Autumn Light
You can’t visit Paris without experiencing its icons. These are the landmarks that define the city’s skyline and history, and in autumn, they’re even more special. Thinner crowds, softer golden light, and crisp air make for a more intimate and breathtaking experience.
The Eiffel Tower Against an Autumn Sky
The Eiffel Tower is always a thrill, but it’s especially beautiful against a dramatic fall sky. From the top, you’ll see the city’s parks below glowing in shades of gold and red. As evening falls, the moment the tower begins to sparkle is pure magic.
What to Know
Best Moment: Arrive about an hour before sunset to see Paris in daylight, watch the sun go down, and witness the lights twinkle to life.
Autumn Advantage: Lines are much shorter than in summer, but book “summit access” tickets online weeks in advance.
Pro Tip: For the best autumn photos of the tower framed by foliage, head to the Champ de Mars gardens or cross the river to the Jardins du Trocadéro.
The Louvre Museum Without the Summer Rush
In autumn, the Louvre feels calmer and more contemplative. Stand closer to the Mona Lisa, admire the Venus de Milo, and wander grand galleries without the summer crush. It’s the perfect season to truly appreciate the world’s largest art museum.
What to Know
Don’t See It All: The Louvre is immense. Focus on one or two wings (e.g., Denon for Italian masterpieces, Sully for Egyptian antiquities).
Check the Hours: Closed Tuesdays.
Pro Tip: Use the underground Carrousel du Louvre entrance for shorter security lines than the main Pyramid.
📸 Tip: From inside, look through the windows out onto the Tuileries Garden, glowing in autumn colors.
Notre-Dame Cathedral: A Symbol of Resilience
Following its long-awaited reopening, Notre-Dame de Paris is more moving than ever. The restored interior, the magnificent rose windows catching soft autumn light, and the new spire are powerful symbols of hope and rebirth.
What to Know
Current Status: The cathedral is open to the public. Don’t miss the restored Grand Organ and intricate details of the nave.
Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings are quietest, or attend a service for an unforgettable atmosphere.
Pro Tip: Walk around to the Square Jean XXIII garden at the back for stunning views of the flying buttresses and new spire framed by autumn leaves.
Paris In the Fall: things to do, see & savor in a map
Beyond the City: Best Autumn Day Trips from Paris
Art lover? Choose Giverny to explore Monet’s Gardens, where art and nature blend beautifully. History buff? Head to the D-Day Beaches of Normandy for a poignant journey through pivotal moments of history.
Seeking fairy-tale castles? The Loire Valley offers a royal escape, and for an unmatched medieval experience, visit Mont Saint-Michel. Each destination pairs perfectly with the crisp air and golden light of fall, offering unique experiences to match your interests.
Monet’s Gardens in Giverny: A Painter’s Dream
Just outside Paris lies Giverny, home to Claude Monet’s world-famous gardens and lily pond. In autumn, vibrant dahlias and asters bloom, while golden leaves reflect in the water alongside the Japanese bridge and weeping willows.
The moody light feels straight out of an Impressionist canvas.
To see how to combine this visit with other nearby highlights, see my complete guide to touring Normandy, which includes a detailed stop in Giverny.
What to Know
Where: 45-minute train from Gare Saint-Lazare to Vernon, followed by a short shuttle ride or pleasant walk.
When: Gardens close for winter on November 1st .Consider September or October.
Best Moment: Late morning, once the mist has lifted but before crowds arrive.
Pro Tip: Combine with a stop in Vernon, a charming riverside town with half-timbered houses. Book your train + entry tickets online in advance.
The Castles of the Loire Valley: A Royal Fairytale
The Loire Valley is a storybook landscape of Renaissance châteaux framed by vineyards and forests. In autumn, morning mist drifts along the rivers, and trees blaze in shades of red and gold.
Exploring the grandeur of Château de Chambord or the romantic arches of Chenonceau is even more magical without the summer crowds.
To help you choose which castles to visit and create the perfect itinerary, I've created a complete guide to exploring the Loire Valley from Paris.
What to Know
Getting There: Best with a rental car, or take a 1h30–2h TGV to Tours and join a local minibus tour.
Best Moment: October, when vineyards glow in gold and crimson.
How to Visit: Focus on 2–3 castles max for a full day.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss Villandry’s gardens, famous for intricate vegetable plots at harvest peak. Many wineries also offer tastings in autumn.
The D-Day Beaches of Normandy: A Moving Journey
For history lovers, few places are as powerful as the Normandy landing beaches. In autumn, the windswept coast takes on a reflective atmosphere that feels especially fitting.
Walking along Omaha Beach, visiting the American Cemetery, or standing at the cliffs of Pointe du Hoc is an unforgettable and humbling experience.
What to Know
Where: 2.5–3 hours each way by train to Bayeux or Caen. Organized tours from Paris are the most efficient.
Best Moment: September and October, when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller.
What to See: Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, American Cemetery, and the Caen Memorial Museum.
Pro Tip: Consider staying overnight in Bayeux — a charming town with the famous Bayeux Tapestry and easy access to the sites.
For a full itinerary and practical tips, see my guide to visiting the D-Day Beaches of Normandy.
Mont Saint-Michel (Optional Overnight)
Farther afield but worth every effort, the Mont Saint-Michel rises from tidal flats like a medieval dream. In autumn’s crisp air, its silhouette feels even more magical, especially once day-trippers leave.
What to Know
Where: About 4 hours by train + bus from Paris. Best as an overnight trip.
Best Moment: Early morning or evening, when the island is quiet.
Pro Tip: Stay overnight on the island to witness the dramatic tide changes — an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience.
If you're looking for even more day trips inspiration? You’ll find all my top recommendations in my dedicated guide to the 5 Best Day Trips from Paris.
Paris in Fall for Solo Female Travelers Over 50
When I moved to Paris for work, my first autumn wasn’t instantly magical. I felt lonely and blue, unsure if solo city life suited me.
Everything shifted during a weekend in Versailles. Walking down a wide path covered in orange leaves, I stopped, amazed by the beauty around me. The loneliness melted away, replaced with freedom.
That’s what solo travel in Paris, especially in autumn, has given me: space to embrace the city at my own pace, in my own way. Here’s my advice for making the most of it:
Embrace a Slower, Richer Pace
Forget the pressure to rush from one sight to another. A solo autumn trip lets you linger.
Spend an afternoon at the Musée Rodin gardens, surrounded by sculptures and autumn leaves.
Claim a green chair in the Jardin du Luxembourg and read for hours with no one to hurry you along.
Find a café you love and visit it every day if you like. This trip is all about what feels right for you.
Dine with Confidence and Joy
Dining solo in Paris is not just accepted; it’s chic.
Ask for a “table pour une, s’il vous plaît” with confidence. Many bistros have charming tables for one.
Bring a book or journal, or simply enjoy the art of people-watching.
Look for prix fixe menus. They’re a tasty and budget-friendly way to enjoy several courses.
Indulge Your Curiosities
Autumn is the ideal season to experience Paris:
Take a Class: Macaron-making, cheese tasting, or even perfume creation in Le Marais.
Attend a Concert: Classical music in Sainte-Chapelle or Église Saint-Germain-des-Prés is unforgettable.
Walk Through History: For a truly powerful and unique experience, connect with the city's spirit of rebellion. I’ve created a self-guided walking tour that follows in the footsteps of the incredible women of the French Revolution. Discover their stories, their struggles, and their indelible impact on the city.
Explore the Passages: Wander through historic covered passages like Galerie Vivienne, filled with boutiques and tea rooms, perfect for a rainy afternoon.
Stay in the Heart of the Charm
As I was living near Versailles and needed to commute every day, I can tell you that the train system (the RER) is incredibly easy and safe for getting into the city. So, don't worry if you find a great place a bit further out.
But on vacation, every hour counts. Staying in the center means you can slip back to your hotel for a quick rest and step outside again to find Paris’s magic waiting right at your door.
Top Picks: Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th arrondissement) for classic charm, or the quieter corners of Le Marais (3rd/4th arrondissements).
Ultimately, Paris in the fall is a city that celebrates elegance and the art of living well. It's the perfect match for women traveling confidently on their own terms.
If you’d like more inspiration beyond Paris, don’t miss my guide solo female travel over 50, where I share practical tips and personal lessons for embracing the freedom of exploring the world on your own.
Flavors of the Season: What to Eat in Paris
Autumn in Paris is pure comfort on a plate. The season brings hearty dishes and sweet indulgences that perfectly match the cool weather.
Warm up with a bubbling bowl of Soupe à l’Oignon, savor a slow-cooked Boeuf Bourguignon, and don’t miss seasonal treats like fig and pear tarts.
For the ultimate Parisian dessert, head to Angelina for their legendary Mont Blanc, a chestnut-cream masterpiece that tastes like autumn in every bite.
Discover Treasures at a Local Market
To experience the true taste of the season, spend a morning at one of Paris's incredible open-air markets (marchés). In the fall, the stalls are piled high with gleaming mushrooms (champignons), vibrant squash, root vegetables, and late-season fruits. The atmosphere is bustling and authentically Parisian.
What to Know
Where to Go: The Marché Bastille (Thursday/Sunday) is one of the largest, while the Marché d'Aligre (daily except Monday) has a famous flea market alongside it.
What to Buy: Even if you don't have a kitchen, you can assemble a perfect picnic: regional cheese, a fresh baguette, saucisson (cured sausage), and seasonal fruit.
Pro Tip: Go in the morning for the best selection and the most vibrant atmosphere, then find a nearby park to enjoy your finds.
Indulge in Hearty, Classic Dishes
When the air gets chilly, Parisian bistros become even more inviting. This is the season to warm up with timeless, slow-cooked French classics that are rich, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.
What to Know
What to Order: Look for seasonal specials (plats du jour) on the chalkboard. Classic autumn dishes to try include Boeuf Bourguignon (beef stewed in red wine), Coq au Vin (chicken stewed in wine), and a classic Soupe à l'Oignon (French onion soup) with a thick layer of melted cheese.
Where to Find Them: You don’t need a fancy restaurant. The best versions are often found in traditional, family-run bistros in Saint-Germain or the Latin Quarter.
Pro Tip: Save room for dessert. Autumn favorites include Tarte Tatin (caramelized apple tart), chestnut-based treats (marrons glacés or chestnut cream-filled pastries), fig tarts, and delicate pear clafoutis — all perfect with a spoonful of crème fraîche.
Warm Up in a Salon de Thé
A rainy or chilly afternoon provides the perfect excuse to duck into one of Paris’s elegant tea salons (salons de thé). These historic establishments are famous for their decadent pastries and, most importantly, their legendary hot chocolate.
What to Know
The Ultimate Hot Chocolate: For the best experience, head to Angelina (my favorite) on Rue de Rivoli for their impossibly thick and rich African hot chocolate, served with a side of whipped cream.
Do not miss Angelina’s iconic Mont Blanc dessert, a cloud of meringue topped with whipped cream and sweet chestnut vermicelli. It’s as Parisian as it gets, and the ultimate seasonal indulgence in autumn.
Other Icons: Ladurée and Carette (at Place des Vosges) also offer beautiful settings for a refined afternoon break.
Pro Tip: There can be a line at famous places like Angelina, especially on weekends. Try going on a weekday afternoon to minimize the wait.
How to Plan Your Perfect Autumn Trip to Paris
Ready to turn your Paris-in-autumn dream into reality? I know planning can feel overwhelming, but once you break it down, it’s actually part of the fun. Here’s how I usually organize my own trips so everything runs smoothly from the first flight search to the final museum visit.
Just so you know, this section contains affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend services I personally use and trust.
When to Go: Choosing Your Month
Each autumn month has its own personality, so it really depends on the vibe you’re looking for:
September: Feels like a golden extension of summer. Warm days, long evenings, and that vibrant la rentrée buzz—without the peak summer crowds.
October: The heart of Parisian autumn. Expect peak foliage, crisp sweater weather, cozy cafés, and events like the Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival.
November: Quieter, more romantic, and wonderfully atmospheric. You’ll feel like a local. Plus, you can catch the Beaujolais Nouveau celebration and the very first holiday lights.
Getting There
I usually start my search on Expedia because it lets me compare multiple airlines at once and set price alerts. But if you’re traveling within Europe, don’t overlook the TGV high-speed trains. They’re often faster and more comfortable than flying, especially on routes like Paris–Lyon or Paris–Bordeaux.
For booking trains, I like using Rail Europe, which makes it easy to check timetables, compare prices, and reserve seats in advance—all in English and with international payment options. The earlier you book (2–3 months ahead for international flights or popular train routes), the better the price.
Where to Stay
Location makes all the difference. Staying in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés or the quieter corners of Le Marais puts the best of Paris right outside your door. My go-to search platforms are Booking.com for variety and Hotels.com for flexibility.
If you want a step-by-step system for finding the best deals, I’ve detailed the exact process I use in my 7-Step Hotel Booking Guide. It’s how I compare platforms, spot hidden savings, and book with confidence.
Booking Tours and Activities
Paris is a city made for wandering, but some experiences are worth reserving in advance. I often use GetYourGuide and Viator for skip-the-line tickets, day trips, and curated experiences (because nothing kills the Paris mood like a two-hour queue at the Louvre).
If you’re wondering whether GetYourGuide is truly worth it, I’ve shared my honest GetYourGuide Review with pros, cons, and booking hacks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paris in the Fall
What is the weather really like? Is it very rainy?
Paris in autumn is generally mild but variable. Temperatures range from 12–18°C (54–64°F) in September and October, cooling further in November. Showers are common, but they tend to be light and passing rather than heavy all-day rain. Bring a compact umbrella and a waterproof jacket. Rainy afternoons are also the perfect excuse to slip into a museum or linger in a cozy café.
Is Paris expensive to visit in autumn?
Autumn is part of the shoulder season, so flights and hotels are more affordable than in summer. Paris will never be a budget destination, but visiting in the fall is kinder on both your wallet and your patience, thanks to shorter lines and fewer crowds.
How many days are enough for a fall trip to Paris?
Five to seven days is ideal for a first-time visitor. This allows time to see the main landmarks at a relaxed pace, enjoy a few neighborhood explorations, soak in the autumn atmosphere, and fit in a day trip without feeling rushed.
What are the essentials to pack for Paris in the fall?
Think layers. Bring water-resistant walking shoes or boots, a trench coat or light waterproof jacket, two or three cozy sweaters, and at least one chic scarf. These staples will keep you comfortable and stylish. For a detailed list and outfit inspiration, read our full What to Wear in Paris in the Fall style guide.
What festivals happen in Paris in the fall?
Two seasonal highlights stand out:
The Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival (early October), a lively celebration with parades, music, food stalls, and wine tastings.
Beaujolais Nouveau Day (the third Thursday in November), when Parisian bistros and wine bars celebrate the release of the year’s first Beaujolais with tastings and festive gatherings.
What are the best things to do in Paris in autumn?
Autumn in Paris is perfect for:
Strolling through leafy parks like the Luxembourg Gardens or Parc Monceau.
Visiting museums with fewer crowds.
Taking a Seine River sunset cruise.
Exploring neighborhoods such as Le Marais or Saint-Germain-des-Prés with a café stop along the way.
Indulging in seasonal foods—think onion soup, Tarte Tatin, or hot chocolate at Angelina.
What are the best things to do in Paris on a rainy autumn day?
A rainy day can be one of the most Parisian experiences of all. Great options include:
Spending an afternoon in a museum such as the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay.
Wandering the atmospheric covered passages like Galerie Vivienne, filled with bookshops and cafés.
Indulging in hot chocolate and a Mont Blanc pastry at Angelina, or trying another elegant tea salon.
Final Thoughts: Why Paris in Autumn Stays With You
Do you see now why this is my favorite time to be in Paris?
Autumn here is about more than just sightseeing, it’s about a feeling. It’s the quiet moment in a less-crowded museum, the comfort of a chocolat chaud on a cool afternoon, and the breathtaking sight of a golden sunset over the Seine.
When the summer rush fades, Paris invites you to slow down, wander, and let yourself become part of its magic. Your unforgettable autumn adventure is waiting.
Further Reading: Thinking About Another Season?
While autumn in Paris holds a special, cozy magic, the city completely transforms in the springtime. If you dream of blooming cherry blossoms in the Trocadéro gardens and sipping rosé at a sun-drenched café, be sure to explore a different side of the city with my complete guide to Paris in the Spring.