Thinking about visiting Paris in August? It might be the most misunderstood month of the year. Every summer I hear travelers worry that everything will be closed, only to discover packed terraces, busy attractions, festivals, and some of the longest evenings of the year.
Yes, August is hot, and yes, you’ll be sharing Paris with plenty of other visitors. But while many Parisians leave for their summer holidays, the city takes on a more relaxed atmosphere.
Long sunny days, outdoor apéros, picnics along the Seine, and warm evenings spent on a café terrace make August feel different from any other time of year.
As a local who loves spending August in Paris, I even schedule my own summer vacation in July so I can be here during August. Over the years, I’ve learned that knowing what to expect can make all the difference.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know before your trip, including the weather, what to pack, seasonal travel tips, major events, and the best things to do in Paris in August so you can make the most of your visit.
Best Things to Do in Paris in August
Traveling to Paris in August means visiting during one of the most misunderstood months of the year.
You’ve probably heard that Paris empties out in August, and there is some truth to it. But while many locals leave the city for their summer holidays, millions of visitors arrive instead. The result? The major attractions are as busy as it gets.
Every summer, I hear from readers who assumed they could simply buy tickets after arriving in Paris. Unfortunately, August is not the month to take that risk.
If you’ve decided that August is the best month to visit Paris for, these are the experiences I’d prioritize booking first:
- Eiffel Tower summit access – availability is limited, especially during summer holidays
- Louvre Masterpieces Tour – reserve ahead to skip the line
- The Catacombs – one of the attractions that sells out most frequently
- Seine River Cruises, particularly sunset departures – secure the best time slots early
- Palace of Versailles Tours – morning entries are usually the first to disappear
- Musée d’Orsay – one of Paris’ most popular museums, especially on hot August afternoons
The Eiffel Tower and Versailles are usually the first to sell out, particularly for the most desirable morning and sunset time slots. Followed by the Catacombs and Musée d’Orsay. If visiting one of these places is non-negotiable, secure your tickets before you travel.
#1 Visit the Eiffel Tower
Quick Access: Book your ticket to the summit right here
Nothing says “Paris” quite like the Eiffel Tower, and if this is your first visit to the French capital, it’s probably already at the top of your bucket list. So I do feel like being Captain Obvious here.
August is actually one of my favorite months to visit the Eiffel Tower. The long summer days mean you can enjoy the views well into the evening, and the warm temperatures make it pleasant to linger around the Champ de Mars afterward and watch the tower sparkle after dark.
An often-overlooked bonus is that August typically has the fewest rainy days of the year, which means you’re less likely to arrive at the summit only to find Paris hidden in low clouds.
But here’s the thing about visiting the Eiffel Tower in August: despite the persistent rumor that Paris is empty in summer, the Eiffel Tower remains incredibly busy. While many locals are away on holiday, tourists from around the world are filling the city, and seeing Paris from the top of the Eiffel Tower is high on nearly everyone’s list.
⚠️ If visiting the Eiffel Tower is non-negotiable for your trip, don’t leave it to chance. August is one of the busiest months of the year, and the best time slots disappear quickly.
- 🎟️ Book your Eiffel Tower Summit tickets now – August availability is limited
- 🚢 See Paris from above and from the water with this Eiffel Tower & Seine Cruise combo
#2 Pair Your Eiffel Tower Visit with a Seine Dinner Cruise
One of my favorite ways to extend an Eiffel Tower visit in August is with a lunch or dinner cruise on the Seine.
The reason is simple: the departure point of Bateaux Parisiens is located directly at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, making it incredibly easy to combine two of Paris’ most iconic experiences in a single visit.
What makes a Seine cruise especially appealing in August is that the boats are air-conditioned, a luxury that is far from guaranteed in Paris.
If you’re visiting during a heatwave, a lunch cruise is a wonderful way to cool down while enjoying front-row views of the city’s most famous landmarks and a classic French meal. → Reserve this air-conditioned Seine lunch cruise and escape the August heat.
But this being said, if your itinerary allows it, the dinner cruise is the real highlight.
I love visiting the Eiffel Tower in the early evening, before the largest sunset crowds gather around the Champ de Mars and Trocadéro. The perfect next step is then heading straight to the boat.
As you glide along the Seine, you’ll watch Paris slowly transition from day to night. The monuments begin to light up, the city takes on a golden glow, and if you’ve timed it right, you’ll see the Eiffel Tower sparkle while enjoying a 3-course dinner onboard. → See if your travel dates are still available
In August, with its long evenings and warm temperatures, the timing couldn’t be better.
⚠️ One important thing to know: you won’t be the only one with this idea. Between limited Eiffel Tower time slots and high demand for evening cruises, this is definitely not something I would leave until the last minute.
Lunch:
☀️ Escape the August heat on this air-conditioned Seine lunch cruise – reserve your table
Dinner:
🌟 Watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle while enjoying a 3-course dinner on the Seine
#3 Visit the Petit Palais & the Free Street Art Exhibition
If you’re looking for a break from the August crowds and heat, head to the Petit Palais.
Located just steps from the Champs-Élysées, this beautiful museum is one of my favorite places to recommend in summer. Not only is it completely free to visit, but it’s also air-conditioned—something you’ll appreciate if Paris is experiencing one of its famous August heatwaves.
What makes the Petit Palais special is that it offers a little bit of everything. You can admire paintings by Monet, Cézanne, and Pissarro, discover sculptures by Rodin, explore Greek and Roman antiquities, and marvel at the museum’s stunning Art Nouveau collection.
This August is an especially good time to visit because the Petit Palais is once again hosting its popular street art exhibition. Following the success of the first edition, the exhibition has returned this summer, creating a fascinating contrast between contemporary urban art and the museum’s historic collections.
One thing I never skip when visiting the Petit Palais is the interior garden courtyard. Hidden behind the museum galleries, it’s one of the most peaceful spots in central Paris. I also love stopping at the café for one of their local lemonades before continuing my visit.
Grab a coffee at the café, find a seat among the palm trees and colonnades, and enjoy a quiet moment before heading back into the city.
#4 See the Musical Fountains Show at Versailles
Prepare your trip: Book a Versailles and Gardens Ticket
If you’re visiting Paris in August, Versailles is one of the best day trips from Paris you can take.
While the palace is impressive year-round, summer is when the estate is at its most spectacular. The gardens host the famous Musical Fountains Shows, where fountains dance to classical music throughout the grounds. It’s one of the few times you can experience Versailles as Louis XIV intended.
What many visitors don’t realize is that the fountains don’t run every day.
- Grandes Eaux Musicales (Musical Fountain Show) takes place on Saturdays and Sundays
- Jardins Musicaux (Musical Gardens) run during the week
- Grandes Eaux Nocturnes (Night Fountain Show) take place on selected summer evenings
⚠️ The Grandes Eaux Musicales and the Jardins Musicaux are included in the normal entrance Ticket for Versailles. But it’s absolutely necessary to book it in advance: Versailles Palace and Gardens Full Access Ticket
As for me, I think the gardens are the highlight of a summer visit. Many visitors rush through them after seeing the palace, but in August, the fountains, groves, and shaded pathways are what make Versailles truly special.
One thing to keep in mind: August is one of the busiest months of the year at Versailles. Between summer holidays and the fountain shows, tickets for the most desirable time slots can disappear surprisingly quickly.
If you’re planning to visit, I recommend booking one of the earliest entries available. You’ll enjoy cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and have more time to explore the gardens before the afternoon heat arrives.
→🎟️ Book Versailles Palace & Gardens Tickets
Perfect if you prefer exploring independently at your own pace.
→ 🚍 Reserve a Guided Versailles Tour from Paris
The easiest option if you’d rather have transportation and logistics taken care of for you.
#5 Explore Paris in a Vintage Citroën 2CV
✨ Reserve a vintage 2CV tour and discover Paris in style
If you’re looking for a uniquely Parisian experience this August, hop into a vintage Citroën 2CV.
These iconic French cars have been part of the Parisian streetscape for decades and offer a fun alternative to traditional sightseeing tours.
Instead of spending hours on your feet in the summer heat, you can comfortably explore the city while a local driver shows you some of Paris’ most famous landmarks and hidden corners.
What makes a 2CV tour especially enjoyable in August is the weather. With the roof rolled back and warm summer temperatures, it feels a bit like cruising through an open-air movie set.
If you ask me, I think the best time for a 2CV tour is in the early evening. The city starts to cool down, the light becomes softer, and Paris takes on that golden glow that photographers love so much. And, with the lighter traffic in August, you are not risking getting stuck in rush hour.
It’s also a fantastic option if you’ve already visited the major attractions and want to experience Paris from a different perspective. I often recommend it to returning visitors who are looking for something a little more memorable than another museum visit.
⚠️ August is peak tourist season, and the most popular evening tours can sell out very quickly. If a 2CV ride is on your Paris wish list, I would definitely book it in advance. Secure your spot on a classic Parisian 2CV tour →
#6 Relax at Paris Plages
☀️ Enjoy Paris’ summer beach festival before it ends on August 30th
Every summer, parts of Paris transform into an urban beach resort. Deck chairs line the riverbanks, palm trees appear along the Seine, and the city suddenly feels far more relaxed than its usual fast-paced self.
Paris Plages takes place along the Seine, the Bassin de la Villette, and the Canal Saint-Martin, offering a wide range of free activities throughout the summer. Depending on when you visit, you might stumble upon open-air concerts, dance classes, sports tournaments, cultural events, exhibitions, or family-friendly workshops.
If you’re visiting Paris during a heatwave, it’s also one of the nicest places to spend a few hours outdoors without feeling trapped among crowds and concrete. The atmosphere around the water feels noticeably cooler than many parts of the city.
I think the best part isn’t any specific activity but the atmosphere itself. I simply enjoy taking a long walk along the Seine, stopping for a drink by the water, listening to music, and making the most of the long summer evenings. It’s the only time of year when Paris almost feels like a seaside destination. Well, at least for the Parisians who could not go on vacation.
For the 2026 edition, Paris Plages will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States’ Declaration of Independence, with special cultural programming and events planned throughout the summer.
#7 Go Swimming in the Seine
One of the biggest changes in Paris in recent years has been the return of swimming in the Seine.
In preparation for the Olympic Games in 2024, the city invested heavily in cleaning up the river and improving water quality. The project sparked endless discussions among Parisians. Some loved the idea, others were highly skeptical, and many were convinced nobody would actually want to swim in the Seine.
Well, they were wrong.
Last summer, for the first time in more than 100 years, Parisians and visitors were once again allowed to swim in the Seine.
Of course, you can’t jump into the river just anywhere. Swimming is only permitted in specific supervised zones, where water quality is constantly monitored and lifeguards are present.
Despite all the complaints and gossip you might still hear, the swimming areas are extremely popular. On hot August days, prepare for some queuing.
To be honest with you, I haven’t taken the plunge yet. I was probably one of the skeptical ones and wasn’t entirely convinced by all the cleanup efforts at first. But after an entire summer of people swimming in the Seine without hearing horror stories about anyone getting sick, I’m finally ready to give it a try myself this year.
⚠️ If you’re planning to swim in the Seine in August, arrive early. The most popular swimming areas can reach capacity quickly during hot afternoons.
#8 Join a Wine & Cheese Tasting
🍷 Escape the August heat with this authentic wine and cheese tasting in a historic Paris cellar
August in Paris can be wonderful, but it can also be hot. And by hot, I mean temperatures regularly climbing above 30°C (86°F), sometimes even higher during a heatwave.
That’s why I particularly like this wine and cheese tasting. Located just a short walk from the Louvre, it fits perfectly into a summer sightseeing day in Paris.
Not only does it give your feet a well-deserved break, but it also gets you out of the midday heat for a while. And let’s be honest, unlike a picnic in the sun, your Camembert won’t slowly melt off your plate.
Set in a former royal wine cellar, you’ll sample a variety of French wines and cheeses while learning more about regional specialties, pairing techniques, and the traditions that have made French gastronomy famous around the world.
After many summers in Paris, I love experiences like this because they slow the pace of a Paris trip. Instead of rushing from one landmark to the next, you get the chance to sit down, relax, and enjoy one of the things France does best.
🎨🍷 Perfect Combo, Perfect Timing
My Perfect Paris Plan: Start with a Louvre Masterpieces Tour in the morning and follow it with a wine and cheese tasting for lunch.
The reason I recommend the Masterpieces Tour rather than exploring independently is simple: the Louvre is enormous. Without a plan, it’s easy to spend hours wandering through galleries, miss some of the museum’s most famous works, and leave feeling overwhelmed.
A Masterpieces Tour takes all the guesswork out of the visit. You’ll see the Louvre’s most important highlights, learn the stories behind them, and know that you haven’t missed anything essential—all without spending half a day inside the museum.
The best part? The tour finishes in perfect time for lunch. Instead of emerging from the Louvre exhausted and wondering where to eat, you can head straight to the wine and cheese tasting and enjoy a relaxed Parisian lunch while escaping the August heat.
- 👉 Book your Louvre Masterpieces Tour for the monring
- 👉 Reserve your Wine & Cheese Tasting for lunch
It’s the ideal way to experience two of France’s greatest treasures—art and gastronomy—while avoiding the hottest part of the day.
#9 Visit Monet’s Gardens in Giverny
🌸 August is peak water lily season in Giverny – book your day trip before the best dates are gone
If you’re spending several days in Paris in August, a day trip to Giverny is one of the best ways to get out of the city for a while.
Located in Normandy, about an hour from Paris, Giverny often feels noticeably more pleasant during the summer months. Even when temperatures are high, swapping busy streets, traffic, and endless stretches of concrete for flower gardens, open fields, and countryside scenery makes a world of difference.
Of course, the main reason to visit is Claude Monet’s house and gardens. This is where the Impressionist master lived for more than 40 years and where he created many of his most famous works.
August is one of my favorite times to visit because the gardens are bursting with color. The famous Japanese bridge, the water lily pond, and the flower-filled pathways look remarkably similar to the scenes that inspired Monet’s paintings—especially during peak water lily season.
What I enjoy most about Giverny is the contrast to Paris. After days spent exploring museums, monuments, and busy boulevards, arriving in this Norman village feels like a welcome change of scenery.
Will it be crowded? Absolutely.
August is one of the busiest months of the year here. But even with the crowds, I’d still rather spend a warm summer day surrounded by flowers and countryside than by traffic and concrete.
🌸 My Giverny Tip
Want an easy, stress-free day trip? Book this guided Giverny Tour from Paris and let someone else handle the transportation and logistics.
👑 Planning to visit Versailles’ Musical Fountains as well? Then this Giverny & Versailles combo tour is worth a look—it combines two of the best August day trips from Paris in one seamless excursion.
#10 Enjoy Paris’ Summer Festival Season
One of the things I love most about Paris in August is how much of city life moves outdoors. Parks become concert venues, canals turn into summer playgrounds, and entire neighborhoods seem to embrace a holiday atmosphere.
If you’re visiting Paris in August 2026, these are the festivals and events I’d keep on my radar:
- Until August 9 – L’Été du Canal & L’Ourcq en Fêtes
River cruises, water sports, outdoor cinema, concerts, parties, and cultural activities along the Canal de l’Ourcq. - Until August 30 – Paris Plages
Paris’ famous summer beach festival with deckchairs, sports activities, entertainment, and riverside relaxation. - Until August 17 – Open-Air Cinema Festival at La Villette
Free outdoor screenings of French and international movies under the stars. (program) - Throughout August – Classique au Vert
Open-air classical music concerts and performances in the beautiful Parc Floral. (program) - Until August 15 – Arènes Lyriques
Evening performances by young opera singers and musicians in the charming Arènes de Montmartre. - August 26–30 – Rock en Seine
One of France’s most popular music festivals, held in the leafy grounds of Saint-Cloud just outside Paris.
Rock en Seine is the event I’m most looking forward to every summer. Despite hosting major international artists, it never feels overly commercial. People picnic on the grass, sip wine and Champagne (yes) between concerts, and enjoy a relaxed apéro atmosphere that feels unmistakably French.
As for the Arènes Lyriques, that was actually a new discovery for me while updating this article. The moment I saw “open-air opera in Montmartre”, I booked tickets. I’ll report back after I’ve been, but it already sounds like one of the hidden gems of the Paris summer season.
#11 Spend an Evening at a Parisian Guinguette
One of the best things about Paris in August happens after the sightseeing is done.
As temperatures begin to cool and the sun starts to set, Parisians head towards the riverbanks to enjoy long summer evenings with friends, good food, and a drink in hand. While Paris Plages gets most of the attention, there are countless riverside bars, terraces, and summer venues all along the Seine that come alive during August.
In France, we call many of these places guinguettes. They’re lively, feel-good venues that pop up all over the region as soon as the weather turns warm. Think outdoor dining, live music, dancing, string lights, and a relaxed atmosphere that encourages you to stay much longer than planned.
One of the most iconic spots is Rosa Bonheur sur Seine near the Musée d’Orsay. But if you’re looking for something a little less touristy, head towards Gare d’Austerlitz and the 13th arrondissement, where you’ll find a fantastic collection of riverside venues.
One of my favorites is Plat/Form. It has genuine beach-promenade vibes, but instead of soggy fries and mediocre snacks, you’ll find excellent bistro food, oysters, a great wine list, and even cooling mist systems for the hottest summer days.
Another favorite of mine is Les Quais d’Annette K in the 15th arrondissement. It’s one of those places that perfectly captures what I love about Paris in summer: people gathering outdoors, sharing drinks and food, and making the most of the long evenings.
If you ask me what locals actually do on a warm August evening, this is probably the closest answer.
Everything You Need to Know if You Spend August in Paris
August is one of the most misunderstood months in Paris—and one of the most polarizing. People tend to either love it or hate it, with very little in between.
You’ve probably heard that the city empties out, that everything closes, and that there’s nobody around. While there is a grain of truth to those claims, the reality is a little more nuanced.
So before packing your bags, here are a few things you should know about visiting Paris in August.
➤ Also Read: Paris When It’s Hot: 15 Ways to Beat the Heat
How are the Crowds in August?
One of the biggest myths about Paris in August is that the city is completely empty and everything is closed.
The truth? Paris feels different, but it is far from deserted. Quite the opposite: August is one of the busiest months of the year for tourism.
While many Parisians leave for their summer holidays, the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Versailles, Seine cruises, and other major attractions are operating at full capacity and can sell out weeks in advance.
What changes most is the atmosphere. Rush hour is a little less intense, traffic is lighter, and residential neighborhoods feel noticeably quieter.
At the same time, festivals, outdoor events, concerts, and summer activities are everywhere, giving the city a relaxed holiday vibe that you won’t find during the rest of the year.
From my experience, I quite enjoy Paris in August. The city seems to slow down a little, without ever becoming boring.
August 15th: A Month Split in Two
A key thing to understand about August in Paris is that the month is essentially split into two parts: before and after August 15th.
August 15th is Assumption Day (L’Assomption), a public holiday in France and traditionally one of the busiest vacation periods of the year.
During the first half of August, many Parisians are away. Outside the tourist center, some neighborhoods can feel really quiet, local businesses may close for their annual holidays, and those who remain in the city spend their evenings on terraces, along the Seine, or at summer festivals.
After August 15th, things gradually begin to change. Parisians slowly return to the city and start preparing for la rentrée—the return to work and school in early September.
It’s not an overnight transformation, but you can definitely feel the city waking up from its summer nap.
One thing that doesn’t change, however, is the popularity of the major attractions. Whether you’re visiting before or after August 15th, expect the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Versailles, and the most popular tours to remain busy throughout the month.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting Paris in August
After spending many summers in Paris and helping thousands of visitors plan their trips, there are a few August mistakes I see over and over again.
#1 Assuming You Can Buy Tickets Last Minute
One of the biggest misconceptions about Paris in August is that the city is empty.
While many Parisians are on vacation, August is actually peak tourist season. The Eiffel Tower, Versailles, Seine cruises, the Catacombs, and many guided tours often sell out days—or even weeks—in advance.
If there’s an attraction that’s important to you, book it before you travel.
#2 Underestimating the Heat
Many visitors expect Paris to be warm. Fewer expect it to reach 35°C (95°F) or more.
If a heatwave happens during your trip, sightseeing in the middle of the afternoon can become exhausting very quickly. I always recommend keeping museums, shopping, and other indoor activities for the hottest hours of the day and saving outdoor sightseeing for the morning and evening.
#3 Assuming Every Hotel Has Air Conditioning
This catches first-time visitors by surprise every year. While more and more Paris hotels now offer air conditioning, it’s still far from universal. If air conditioning is important to you, make sure it is explicitly mentioned in the hotel description.
My rule of thumb: if a hotel doesn’t mention AC, assume it doesn’t have it.
#5 Staying in a Residential Neighborhood Without Realizing It’s August
This is a mistake that doesn’t get talked about enough.
During the first half of August, many local businesses close for their annual holidays. In more residential neighborhoods, you may find your favorite bakery, café, pharmacy, or restaurant temporarily closed.
The city center is far less affected because tourism keeps everything running. If you’re visiting in August, I often recommend staying close to the edge of the main tourist areas. You’ll still get a local feel, but without finding yourself in a neighborhood where half the storefronts have their shutters down.
#5 Underestimating the Crowds at Major Attractions
Ironically, some visitors make the exact opposite mistake. They hear that Parisians leave in August and assume the city will be quiet. Then they arrive at the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, or Versailles and find some of the largest crowds of the year.
If you’re sensitive to crowds, try visiting major attractions early in the morning or later in the evening whenever possible. You’ll often enjoy a much better experience than during the busiest midday hours.
How’s the August Weather in Paris?
August is typically one of the warmest months of the year in Paris.
On most days, you can expect temperatures around 25°C (77°F), plenty of sunshine, and long summer evenings that are perfect for outdoor dining, riverside strolls, and enjoying the city’s many festivals.
That said, weather in Paris can be also unpredictable. While hot and sunny days are the norm, rainy spells and cool das are not unheard of. I’ve experienced Augusts where I barely wore anything other than shorts and dresses, and others where I was happy to have a light sweater and rain jacket on hand.
The good news? Those cooler and wetter periods tend to be the exception rather than the rule.
Still, if you’re packing for Paris in August, I would prepare for both possibilities.
Heatwaves in Paris: The Canicule
While August is generally warm, it’s also the month when Paris is most likely to experience a heatwave, known in French as a canicule.
Officially, a canicule occurs when exceptionally high temperatures persist for several consecutive days and nights. During these periods, daytime temperatures can easily exceed 38°C (100°F), while nighttime temperatures remain above 21°C (70°F).
I think what surprises visitors most isn’t necessarily the temperature itself, but the fact that Paris isn’t particularly well-equipped for extreme heat. Air conditioning is far less common than many tourists are used to, especially in apartments, cafés, and smaller shops.
When a heatwave hits, Parisians simply try to adapt. They seek out parks and shaded terraces, spend time along the Seine, linger in air-conditioned museums and shops, enjoy long lunches indoors, or simply stay home until temperatures become more bearable.
In fact, I’m writing this article during a heatwave. The temperature outside is hovering around 37°C (99°F), and I haven’t really left my apartment in three days except for the occasional grocery run. So trust me when I say: a Parisian heatwave is no joke.
The good news is that Paris provides free drinking water throughout the city, and yes, tap water is perfectly safe to drink.
If you happen to visit during a canicule, I recommend planning outdoor sightseeing for the morning and evening and keeping museums, shopping, and other indoor activities for the hottest part of the day.
Important: Book a Hotel with Air Conditioning
If you’re visiting Paris in August, my single most important accommodation tip is this: book a hotel with air conditioning.
It sounds obvious, but many first-time visitors are shocked to learn that air conditioning is far from standard in Paris. While most international hotel chains offer it, many smaller hotels, boutique properties, and apartment rentals do not.
Normally, this isn’t a huge issue. But if your trip happens to coincide with a canicule (heatwave), you’ll be incredibly grateful to return to a cool room after a day of sightseeing.
My rule of thumb is simple: if air conditioning is not explicitly mentioned in the hotel description, assume there isn’t any.
Here’s some help in finding a hotel in Paris with AC:
- Best Mid-Range Hotels in Paris
- Where to Stay in Paris: A Local’s Best Picks
- My personal favorite: Hôtel Monte Cristo
What to Wear in Paris in August 2026
August is one of the easiest months to pack for in Paris. Most days are warm to hot, so lightweight summer clothing will cover most situations.
However, it’s still worth preparing for the occasional rainy day and the possibility of a heatwave.
For most visitors, I’d recommend packing:
- Lightweight dresses (this is perfect) skirts, shorts, or linen trousers
- Breathable tops and shirts
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunglasses
- A hat or cap
- Sunscreen
- A reusable water bottle
- A light cardigan or sweater for cooler evenings
- A compact umbrella or light rain jacket (I use this little travel umbrella)
As for me, I practically live in linen during August. Paris can get hot, and you’ll likely spend more time outdoors than indoors, whether that’s on a café terrace, along the Seine, or exploring one of the city’s many summer festivals.
Trust me, when temperatures climb above 35°C (95°F), nobody is judging your outfit choices. Staying cool becomes the priority.
And as far as footwear goes, comfort wins every time. During the day, you’ll usually find me in my Teva sandals, worn proudly and without apology.
In the evening, when temperatures become a little more bearable, I tend to switch to dressier Sandals like this from Sorel. My favorite pair was actually from Timberland, but sadly they don’t make them anymore.
Is August a Good Time to Visit Paris?
Absolutely—provided you know what to expect.
August isn’t the month to visit Paris if you’re dreaming of empty streets and having the Eiffel Tower all to yourself. It is peak tourist season, attractions are busy, and a heatwave is always a possibility.
But August also has a side that many visitors don’t expect.
The city slows down a little. Summer festivals are everywhere, evenings stretch long into the night, people gather along the Seine, and there’s a relaxed holiday atmosphere that feels very different from the rest of the year.
Personally, I think August rewards visitors who embrace the season. Spend time outdoors in the mornings and evenings, take advantage of the many summer events, enjoy a riverside apéro, and don’t be afraid to escape the city for a day trip to Versailles or Giverny.
And if temperatures happen to climb above 35°C (95°F)? Follow the Parisian strategy: find a shady terrace, order something cold, and wait for the evening.
Paris will still be there when the sun goes down.
Want more Paris recommendations? Here’s my free Google Map with 200+ spots 🗺️
À bientôt,
Lena
Parisienne since 2006 🇫🇷
Sharing Paris life, French culture, cafés, food & honest travel tips
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NEW: The Salut from Paris Travel Guide:
Must-Haves for Paris:
- eSim card to stay online while in Paris. I used Airalo for my travels.
- You likely need a travel adapter to plug your devices.
- Travel Insurance – if you don’t have one, VisitorsCoverage is a good option.
- If your flight is delayed or even canceled, use AirHelp to get compensation.
Tours & Attractions:
- I book tours & activities through Get Your Guide or Viator.
- Museum & Landmark tickets can be cheaper on the official page, but they are often sold out.
- I love the GoCity Travel Passes for easy planning
Flights & Transportation:
- I use Omio to compare flight fares & connections
- Airport transfers I book through Welcome Pickup
- For car rentals, I use AutoEurope. It’s easy to compare prices
- Train Tickets, you can book through Omio
- Here’s my Parisian Metro Guide
Accomodation:
- Hotels in Europe I mostly book through Booking.com (check reviews carefully)
- Vacation Rentals through Airbnb or VRBO
FAQ Paris in August
Are Restaurants Open in Paris in August?
Yes, restaurants are open in Paris throughout August. However, some independent restaurants and neighborhood favorites close for a few weeks to take their annual vacation.
Tourist areas such as Saint-Germain, the Marais, Montmartre, and around the major attractions are generally less affected. Still, if you have a particular restaurant on your must-visit list, it’s always worth checking opening hours before heading across the city.
Do I Need Air Conditioning in Paris in August?
I would strongly recommend booking accommodation with air conditioning if you’re visiting Paris in August.
While average temperatures are pleasant, August is also the month when Paris is most likely to experience a heatwave. Since air conditioning is far less common in Paris than many visitors expect, having a cool hotel room can make a huge difference to your trip.
My rule of thumb: if air conditioning is not explicitly mentioned in the hotel description, assume there isn’t any.
Can You Swim in the Seine in August?
Yes. Following the extensive cleanup efforts ahead of the 2024 Olympic Games, designated swimming areas in the Seine are now open during the summer season.
Swimming is only allowed in supervised zones where water quality is regularly monitored. On hot August days, these areas can become very popular, so arriving early is usually a good idea.
How Many Days Do You Need in Paris in August?
I recommend spending at least 4 to 5 days in Paris if it’s your first visit.
That gives you enough time to see the major attractions, enjoy some of the city’s summer events, and perhaps even take a day trip to Versailles or Giverny.
If you’re visiting during August, having a little extra time is especially nice because the long evenings and relaxed summer atmosphere are part of what makes the month so enjoyable.
Is the Paris Metro Air Conditioned?
Generally speaking, no.
While some newer trains have cooling systems or ventilation, most Metro lines are not air conditioned. During a heatwave, stations and trains can feel surprisingly warm, especially during the afternoon.
On very hot days, I often try to walk more, take the bus, or save Metro journeys for the morning and evening.
What Are the Best Day Trips from Paris in August?
My favorite day trips from Paris in August are Versailles and Giverny.
Versailles is at its best during the Musical Fountains Shows, when the gardens come alive with music and water displays. Giverny is equally beautiful in August thanks to Monet’s famous water lilies being in bloom.
Both destinations are extremely popular during summer, so I recommend booking tickets or tours well in advance.