14 Best Things to do this Autumn in Paris – Tips & Travel Info [2023]

In Advance: Book your Attraction Tickets

Paris is a very popular destination and, especially during the holidays, tourism is booming. During summer 2022 and 2023, tickets to the Eiffel Tower were sold out for weeks!

Hence, even if fall time in Paris is a tad less busy than summer, I strongly recommend that you source tickets to attractions and sights as early as possible.

Especially if your travel dates are on French holidays and vacation periods.

For your convenience, find below the most popular sights that you better reserve in advance.

• Eiffel Tower Summit ➲ book your ticket here
• The Louvre ➲ book your ticket here
• Arc de Triomphe ➲ book your ticket here
• Seine River Cruises ➲ book your ticket here
• Catacombs ➲ book your ticket here
• Palace of Versailles ➲ book your ticket here

Tip: Even if you have the Museums pass or are eligible for free entry to museums, you often need to book a timed entry. Best check on the page of the sight or museum if it applies.

The Paris Autumn Packlist

When traveling in autumn to Paris, it’s important to keep in mind that the beginning of fall has only little in common with the end of the season. The end of September can even be summery, while December likely is wintry cold.

As a general packing recommendation for Paris in autumn, be prepared to dress in layers. It can be cold in the shadow and warm in the sun. Temperatures can vary a lot between day and night, and inside and outside.

However, there are a few things that can’t be missing in your luggage for you to be prepared.

Versatile Waterproof Shoes

Experience the beauty of Autumn in Paris without worrying about wet feet by investing in a pair of these versatile and waterproof Chelsea Boots.

Not only do they offer top-notch weather protection, but they also effortlessly complement both jeans and dresses, ensuring you’re stylishly prepared for any condition.

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A Small Travel Umbrella

Fortunately, all-day rain is uncommon in Paris, but you’ll likely encounter occasional showers. This travel umbrella is your ideal companion for autumn in the city—compact enough to slip into your purse and indispensable when you’re caught in a downpour.

Just a note: rain ponchos may be practical, but they’re not typically worn in Paris. Stick with more traditional rain gear to blend in with the locals.

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A Warm Hat and a Scarf

Brace for Paris’ chilly autumn evenings and occasional winds with the right accessories. A hat and scarf are must-haves, especially for late-season visits. While a French Beret may sound cliché, it’s a Parisian fashion staple.

Alternatively, a beanie like this one offers a cozy, versatile option. Stay warm and stylish as you explore Paris this fall.

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A lightweight down jacket

A down jacket is my go-to travel essential for every season except summer. Lightweight and easily compressible, it fits right into your purse and is a game-changer for all-day outdoor adventures in fall in Paris —particularly when temperatures drop in the evening.

Layered under your regular coat, a lightweight puffer jacket adds warmth without compromising your style. It seamlessly integrates with your outfit, ensuring you stay cozy and fashionable.

I’ve assembled a list of the top 14 things you can do in Paris during autumn to help you make the most out of the season and discover its unique charm.

Whether you’re interested in long walks amid vibrant fall foliage, participating in wine harvest festivities, or cozying up in a local café, this guide has got you covered.

And for those inevitable rainy days, I’ve also included some excellent indoor activities.

#1 Visit the Père Lachaise Cemetery

Discover the haunting beauty of autumn in Paris with a guided tour ➲ book your unforgettable experience today!

Père Lachaise is not only one of the world’s most visited cemeteries, but also a unique spot to experience autumn in Paris. As you wander the ancient cobblestone lanes flanked by towering trees adorned with fall foliage, you’ll feel the mystic ambiance heightened by the soft glow of the autumn sun.

The cemetery is home to an array of notable graves, including those of Edith Piaf, Chopin, Oscar Wilde, and Jim Morrison.

Moreover, the variety of graves reflects the city’s diverse cultural heritage. If you’re interested in exploring an otherworldly facet of Paris in the Fall, a visit to Père Lachaise is truly memorable.

#2 Explore Paris’ Autumn Foliage

While Paris may not be famous for Indian Summers or vibrant forests, its autumn foliage is nothing short of captivating, particularly when experienced in the city’s iconic parks.

Don’t miss our guide: The Best Parks in Paris – Beautiful Gardens You Need to Visit!

Top spots for an autumnal walk include the Jardin Luxembourg and the Tuileries, both classic and quintessentially Parisian gardens. If you find yourself there on a sunny October day, take advantage of the free chairs to soak up the season’s final warm rays.

Of course, there are many more parks and squares that shine during autumn in Paris. My favorites include:

• Place des Vosges
• Parc Monceau (read more about it here)
• Butte Chaumont
• Palais Royal (known for the Netflix Series Emily in Paris)
• Parc Floral
• Jardin d’Acclimatation with the Foundation Louis Vuitton

#3 Attend the Montmartre Wine Festival

Discover the secrets of French treats ➲ book your Montmartre food tour today!

Autumn marks wine harvest season in France, and Paris is no exception with its array of vine harvest festivals and tastings.

The most renowned is the Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre, centered around the city’s oldest vineyard, Clos Montmartre.

Yes, you read that right—Montmartre has its own vineyard!

The event is a celebration of French culture, complete with local cuisine, live music, and, of course, wine. While various French wineries participate, the star of the show is Montmartre’s own wine, crafted entirely from grapes grown in the district and aged in the local town hall’s cellars.

Mark your calendars: The date for 2023 edition of the Fête de Vendange is set for the 11th to 15th of October 2023.

#4 Indulge in French Comfort Cuisine

Also interesting: 62 Interesting facts about French Food

If there’s a season to truly savor the culinary delights of Paris, it’s undoubtedly autumn. With an abundance of fresh, seasonal produce and the arrival of cooler weather, fall is the ideal time to indulge in France’s hearty comfort foods.

Think Fondue, Onion Soup, Raclette or Boeuf Bourguignon and Cassoulet. You even could treat yourself with Duck Confit or Tartiflette.

These rich and flavorful dishes are simply too heavy for the summer heat but absolutely perfect for a cozy autumn evening. Best with a glass of wine – or perhaps two – and cap it off with a decadent mousse au chocolat for dessert.

Tip: The best place to sample traditional dishes in France is a Bouillon. See here my guide on the best Bouillons in Paris.

#5 Museums & Exhibitions

➲ Click here to book your Paris Museum Pass now!

Looking for enriching things to do in Paris in Autumn? The city’s extensive museum scene boasts with over 130 exhibitions, making it an ideal haven for culture lovers. Especially on chilly or rainy days.

You might also be interested in these articles:

• Is the Louvre Worth It? Your No-Nonsense Guide
• 18 free Museums in Paris (+tips to save on the others)
• 16 Art Museums in Paris you shouldn’t miss!

Traditionally, the Paris autumn often features exciting new exhibits you won’t want to miss. Some new additions this fall are:

• Amedeo Modigliani expo in the Musée de l’Orangerie
• Le trésor de Notre-Dame de Paris, from the 19th October in the Louvre
• Nicolas de Staël, from 15th Septembre in the MAM
• Mark Rothko, from 18th of October in Fondation Louis Vuitton
• Bollywood Superstars, from 26th September at Musée du Quai Branly

🌟 Pro Tip: Maximize your cultural exploration with the Paris Museum Pass. Gain free, priority entrance to more than 60 museums, letting you delve into art and history without the hassle of ticket queues.

Just be sure to check in advance for any museums like the Louvre that require reservations.

#6 France’s Wine Regions: Take a Day Trip

Hassle-free ➲ Book a day trip to a wine region here

Autumn marks France’s bustling wine harvest season, a period stretching from August to October. While Paris hosts its share of wine festivals, you might be surprised to learn that three of the country’s most renowned wine regions are just a day trip away from Paris.

So, if you’re aiming to enrich your Parisian autumn getaway, why not dedicate a day to explore some of France’s most iconic vineyards in the countryside?

The most popular wine destinations from Paris in the fall are these:

➲ Bordeaux & St. Emilion

Despite Bordeaux‘s location about 600 km southwest of Paris, a swift 2-hour train journey makes it perfectly feasible for a day trip. (see my step by step Bordeaux day trip itinerary here)

You’ll be transported to one of the world’s premier wine regions in no time. If your schedule allows, consider extending your visit into a weekend getaway.

I explored Bordeaux, St. Émilion, and Arcachon during a summer weekend in 2022, and you’re more than welcome to follow my footsteps. Take a look at my Quick Weekend Guide for a well-curated itinerary.

➲ Loire Valley: Wine & Castles (Book here)

The Loire Valley is renowned not only for its exquisite wines but also for its majestic castles. This dual allure makes the Loire region one of the most sought-after and easily reachable day-trip destinations from Paris.

However, it’s worth noting that the Loire Valley’s magnificent Castles are scattered throughout the region.

To ensure you experience the best of both worlds—wine and castles—I strongly recommend opting for an all-inclusive tour departing from Paris. This way, you can take in the breathtaking architecture and sample the local vintages without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

These all-inclusive Loire Valley tours are expertly designed for maximum efficiency, allowing you to experience more attractions and activities than you could ever manage on your own in a single day.

➲ Champagne Region & Reims

Click to know more about the most booked Champagne Tour from Paris!

Champagne enthusiasts will be thrilled to learn that the headquarters of iconic Champagne Houses are just a 40-minute train ride from Paris.

Make your way to Reims to visit its historic cathedral, and don’t miss the opportunity to tour famous Champagne Houses like Veuve Cliquot, Mumm, or Taittinger.

For a deeper dive into the world of bubbly, you might opt for a guided tour to explore the surrounding vineyards.

Also read:

• Champagne Region Quickly Planned
• A Day trip to Reims from Paris: Champagne & History

#7 Celebrate Halloween in Paris

Be quick ➲ check here if Halloween Tickets are still available

Are you a Halloween fan and spending autumn in Paris? Then you have to know that the go-to destination for Halloween festivities in Paris is undoubtedly Disneyland Paris.

Famous for its elaborate holiday decor and special events, you’ll want to book your tickets for the Disney Halloween Festival well in advance. Explore all the available options and time slots here.

Further Reading: 15 Essential Tips for Visiting Disneyland Paris

If you’re up for a more intimate, eerie experience, consider the Paris: Dark City Secrets Walking Tour or partake in one of the many annual Halloween events happening in the bars and pubs throughout the city.

#8 Explore Paris’ Speakeasy Bars

In the fluctuating fall weather in Paris, you might find yourself looking for cozy indoor options. While the city boasts a plethora of bars and restaurants, for a truly unique experience, consider exploring Paris’ speakeasies.

These hip venues stand out with their intriguing concepts, hidden behind unassuming doors, faux mirrors, or even ordinary pizza joints.

Not only do they capture the allure and secrecy of the Prohibition era, but many are also counted among the best cocktail bars in Paris.

Intrigued? Find out which speakeasy you enter through a washing machine! (click here)

#9 Take a Cooking Class and Market Tour

With fall weather in Paris being more unpredictable than in the summer, it’s wise to have some indoor activities on your itinerary that aren’t weather-dependent.

What could be more memorable than mastering the art of French cooking with a local chef? Autumn is the perfect season to enroll in a cooking class in Paris, as it’s the peak time for many iconic French ingredients like truffles and chanterelles mushrooms.

Imagine not just savoring French delicacies, but also learning how to create them yourself! Explore all the cooking class options in Paris here.

#10 Book a cozy Seine Dinner Cruise

➲ See the best Dinner Cruises on the River Seine here

In Paris during fall, the early dusk sets the stage for a magical dinner cruise. Experience the City of Light illuminated against the evening sky while enjoying sumptuous French cuisine.

The early onset of dusk in the fall season offers a unique advantage: while a 9 p.m. cruise in summer might be awash in daylight, autumn allows for an earlier view of the City of Light’s dazzling illumination, all while you indulge in a gourmet feast.

As the boat glides along the Seine, iconic landmarks come to life in a new light, creating a romantic and unforgettable atmosphere. Don’t miss this chance to see Paris at its most enchanting.

Are you seeking more ideas on what to do in Paris at night? Get inspired here:

• 30+ Things to do at Night in Paris
• These are the best 5 Cabarets in Paris
• 35 Romantic things to do in Paris for Couples

#11 Visit the Quaint English Bookstores

See the full list of quirky lovely bookstores of Paris here

Nestled in the Latin Quarter, Shakespeare & Company and Abbey Bookshop are oases for book lovers navigating the fall season in Paris.

Shakespeare & Company, a literary landmark since the 1950s, offers new titles alongside rare editions. If you’re lucky, you might even catch an author reading. Just around the corner, Abbey Bookshop serves as another haven for bibliophiles, featuring English-language books in a snug, cozy setting.

Also interesting: 16 wonderful books set in Paris

Both stores provide the perfect respite from unpredictable fall weather in Paris, with labyrinthine aisles and towering shelves inviting leisurely exploration.

These aren’t just shops; they’re experiences, literary retreats that offer intellectual warmth amid the crisp autumn air. Whether you’re looking for a new read or a collector’s gem, these charming bookstores offer a quintessential Parisian experience ideal for autumn.

#12 Rainy Day Activity: The Covered Arcades

➲ Check my Guide on the Covered Passages to know exactly where to find them

When Paris skies turn gray, the city’s covered passages offer a delightful refuge. Dating back to the 19th century, these arcades once numbered over 180; today, only 20 remain.

Filled with boutique shops, antique bookstores, and charming eateries, they’re perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Whether you’re seeking a spot for lunch or unique souvenirs, these passages provide a historic and atmospheric setting.

Don’t miss the chance to explore these architectural gems if you encounter a rainy day during your Parisian stay.

#13 Visit the Catacombs

Looking for a weatherproof activity during fall in Paris? One, that fits perfectly to the spooky Halloween season? Then venture beneath the city streets to explore the Catacombs.

Important: book your tickets here in advance, there are rarely spots left on short notice.

This labyrinthine tunnel system is a transformation of old limestone quarries, where stones were once extracted for building the city above. When cemeteries became overcrowded in the 18th century, health risks included, the tunnels repurposed as an underground ossuary.

With a constant temperature of 14 degrees Celsius, it’s best you bring a jacket.

Offering a haunting yet fascinating experience, the Catacombs make for a unique and eerie outing—especially if you’re looking to get spooked on Halloween. Reserve this adventure here.

#14 The Gardens of Versailles: Fall Foliage Galore

Is the fall foliage that Paris has to offer not enough for you? Then take a 40-minute train ride from Paris, and you’re in Versailles, where the gardens put on a different kind of show in the fall.

It’s less crowded than during the summer months, and the Hameau de Marie Antoinette is particularly stunning with its autumn leaves.

Stroll around, soak in the fall vibes, and of course, don’t miss out on the castle itself. It’s a laid-back way to experience Versailles, with the added bonus of some seriously good leaf-peeping.

Reminder:  Book your tickets for Paris Attractions in Advance!

I can’t stress it enough, but If you are visiting Paris this fall, make sure to reserve the sights you want to visit well in advance.

The attractions that sell out super quick, especially in autumn, when many neighboring countries use their fall vacation for a little city trip to Paris, are:

I advise that you check the prices and availabilities on the official landmark pages, to compare. However, often, you will find the official ticket booth sold out, so you have to rely on 3rd party companies to provide you with tickets.

Personally, I only made good experiences with Get Your Guide on my travels, that’s why I recommend them.