Paris for the 4th: Stars, Stripes, and Eiffel Lights

Discover how to do the 4th of July Paris-style, from pastries to panoramic vistas.

Published: March 23, 2026
Hand holding American Flag

Paris may be across the Atlantic, but it still packs plenty of sparkle for the Fourth of July. Whether you’re craving a dash of home, a festive night out, or something totally unexpected, Paris welcomes you with open arms and a certain je ne sais quoi. We’re sharing our favorite ways to celebrate July 4th in the City of Light, so you can show your American pride while soaking up Parisian charm. From riverside picnics to dazzling city views, and from BBQ joints to jazz clubs, we’ve got your Independence Day covered—baguette optional, fireworks guaranteed. 

Our favorite ways to celebrate the 4th of July in Paris include: 

  • A Sunset Seine River Cruise 
  • Paris’ American-style BBQ Restaurants 
  • Art and History at Musée d’Orsay 
  • Cocktails and Live Jazz in Saint-Germain-des-Prés 
  • Eiffel Tower Picnics and Light Shows 
  • Shopping for Gourmet American Treats 
  • Patriotic Pastries at Local Bakeries 
  • City Views from Tour Montparnasse 
  • A Themed Walk through Le Marais 
  • Movie Night with a View 

A Sunset Seine River Cruise 

Nothing says celebration like a Bateaux Parisiens River Cruise along the Seine at sunset! Sail under centuries-old bridges while the city glows in soft summer light. Bring a mini flag, toast to freedom, and snap plenty of photos. If the cruise times align, you might even catch the Eiffel Tower’s shimmering light show, which, while not fireworks, delivers plenty of sparkle. 

The atmosphere onboard? Think lively, but never rowdy. Some cruises serve up a celebratory aperitif, and you’ll float by sights like Notre Dame, the Louvre and, of course, the Eiffel Tower. The Bateaux Parisiens River Cruise offers commentary in English and French, providing a cultural glimpse that’s genuinely entertaining—not just educational! 

Paris’ American-Style BBQ Restaurants 

Longing for the flavors of the Fourth? Paris has a vibrant American food scene, especially when it comes to BBQ. MELT, with its exposed brick walls and smoky aroma, dishes up authentic brisket and pulled pork with zingy sauces. And Pink Mamma in Pigalle, though Italian-leaning, serves flame-grilled meats in a lush, plant-filled setting.  

The vibe? Lively crowd, rock and blues on the playlist, and more than a few “Cheers” echoes from the bar. It’s a fun way to connect with fellow travelers or homesick Americans over a plate of smoky goodness. 

Art and History at Musée d’Orsay

Children in Front of Musée d'Orsay Clock

Looking to celebrate through culture? The Musée d’Orsay is both striking and surprisingly festive, even on July 4th. Housed in an old railway station, it’s filled with world-class Impressionist art—Manet, Monet, Van Gogh—and sweeping views of the Seine.  

The grand clock face offers a picture-perfect backdrop for July photos, while inside, you get a hefty dose of inspiration without the crowds you might find elsewhere. On Independence Day, the museum’s airy galleries and riverside terraces provide a uniquely peaceful place to reflect on history, freedom and creativity. It’s a reminder that liberty inspires art, and art, in turn, sparks conversation. 

Cocktails and Live Jazz in Saint-Germain-des-Prés 

Jazz clubs and stylish bars in Saint-Germain-des-Prés practically demand a festive July gathering. Duck into Le Caveau de la Huchette—a legendary underground club with American roots and foot-tapping swing shows—or settle in at a streetside bar for cocktails and people-watching.  

Many venues feature special July 4th sets, and you’ll see both locals and tourists letting loose after sunset. Try a red, white and blue-themed drink or something French—like a Lillet spritz—and toast to Franco-American friendship. The mood is always festive, the crowd welcoming, and the music timeless. 

Eiffel Tower Picnics and Light Shows 

If you want fireworks, you won’t find many in Paris on July 4th. But you will get the next best thing: a sunset view of the Eiffel Tower, picnic spread at your feet, and the tower’s sparkling hourly illuminations as dusk falls.  

Head to the Champ de Mars with snacks from a local fromagerie and bakery, lay out a blanket, and join in the relaxed summer tradition. The area buzzes with laughter and clinking glasses—this is prime real estate for celebrating anything, but Independence Day in particular feels special. After dark, the tower shimmers for five jaw-dropping minutes every hour—pair it with your favorite playlist and you’ve got Paris’ answer to July fireworks. 

Shopping for Gourmet American Treats 

Missing peanut butter cups or ranch dressing? Stock up on U.S. goodies at grocers like The Real McCoy (7th arrondissement) or Thanksgiving (Marais). These specialty shops pull out all the stops for Independence Day, with specials on American snacks, rare sodas, and even marshmallows for rooftop s’mores.  

The feel is part deli, part nostalgia trip—and the shelves are often packed with expats tracking down a taste of home. Grab a few treats to take to your picnic or enjoy in your Paris apartment with a view. 

Patriotic Pastries at Local Bakeries 

If there’s ever a day to indulge, July 4th is it. Paris’ patisseries pull out their most colorful fruit tartlets and glossy berry cakes in summer—perfect for a “red, white, and blue” theme. We always recommend Yann Couvreur for jewel-like raspberry and blueberry pastries, or La Maison Pichard for exquisite tarte aux fruits.  

The best plan? Stop by a bakery in the late morning, grab a mix of treats (save room for a croissant, too) and treat yourself throughout the afternoon. The vibe: pure Parisian delight, with an unexpected touch of stars and stripes in every bite. 

Taking in City Views from Tour Montparnasse

View from Tour Montparnasse

Sunset from the open-air deck of Tour Montparnasse delivers unrivaled views over Paris, with the Eiffel Tower perfectly framed against the skyline. A trip up this sleek skyscraper feels especially festive in July, with warm evening light, a gentle breeze, and that unmistakable “wow” moment as the sun dips and the city begins to sparkle.  

In summer, the observation deck often hosts pop-up bars or DJ sets—ideal for mingling, sipping rosé, and soaking up the energy high above the streets. Bring your camera, your American spirit, and maybe even a flag for a fun, patriotic snapshot—this is one 4th of July view you won’t forget. 

A Themed Walk Through Le Marais 

For a dose of American history with a Parisian twist, take a self-guided walk through Le Marais—a charming quarter full of quirky boutiques, leafy squares, and, yes, a few notable U.S. connections. Begin at the Hôtel de Ville, where Lafayette once met with the French government, then wander over to Place des Vosges for a literary pause amid elegant arcades and historic façades.  

Le Marais is also home to many American expats, bakeries, and specialty shops, so during the 4th of July you might spot festive displays or even hear a cheerful “Happy Fourth!” from friendly shopkeepers. With its photogenic streets, vibrant energy, and endless window-shopping opportunities, this lively neighborhood is perfect for exploring at your own pace—whether it’s Independence Day or any day of the year. 

Movie Night with a View 

Want to end your Independence Day with a touch of familiar comfort? Seek out open-air cinema nights along the Seine or in Parisian parks—many showcase English-language or classic American films throughout the summer.  

Pack a picnic, bring something bubbly, and settle in with locals as the Eiffel Tower comes into view. Watching a beloved Hollywood flick under the Parisian stars transforms an ordinary evening into a memorable July 4th experience that feels both cozy and exhilarating. The lively, communal vibe is contagious, and sharing laughter and stories with fellow moviegoers makes it a truly heartwarming way to cap off your day in the City of Light. 

 

No matter which experiences you choose, celebrating July 4th in Paris proves you can enjoy the best of both worlds—American cheer, French flair, and endless memories to bring home. So, what will you choose? 

Enjoyed this? Check out the Best Ways to Celebrate Memorial Day or Best Picnic Spots in Paris 

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The Greatest Indoor Activities in Paris

Even the sexiest of cities can occasionally have their allure dampened by a downpour, and Paris is no exception. Fortunately, France’s capital is awash with amazing things to see and do indoors – and beneath the streets – when the weather messes with your plans. From cabaret to the catacombs, church tours to cheese and wine tastings, there are more interesting indoor activities in Paris than you might expect. You’ll find a selection of our favorites below. Galleries and Museums Centre Pompidou This cultural mecca’s ‘inside-out’ architecture – all exposed air ducts and pipework in bold primary colors – make it something of a work of art in itself. Visitors can admire the view from a glass-covered external escalator that ascends all six stories. Inside is no less awe-inspiring: the Centre Pompidou houses a cavernous public library, a center for music and acoustic research and, most notably, the National Museum of Modern Art, a collection rivaled in scope, variety and quality only by MoMA in New York. Step inside to admire world-famous works from – deep breath – Picasso, Pollock, Matisse, Magritte, Bacon, de Kooning, Warhol, Sherman and many, many more. Musée du Quai Branly Paris does an impressive line in quirky building exteriors, and the Musée du Quai Branly, set on the Seine’s banks in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower, is no exception. Its green wall of vegetation, designed by celebrated botanist Patrick Blanc, covers much of the building’s facade as well as some of the interior. There’s enough foliage to fill a dozen Instagram feeds and that’s before you even get to the astonishing collection of indigenous art and cultural artifacts from around the world, including a monumental medieval Moai head from Easter Island and a brightly decorated Volkswagen from Mexico. Rodin Museum Gallic legend Auguste Rodin is that rarest of creatures: a sculptor who became a household name. Visit the former hotel where he lived out his last years and which now homes many of his finest pieces as well as showcasing some of his own personal collection of artworks by Van Gogh, Renoir, Monet and more. A number of busts as well as career highlights including The Kiss are exhibited inside the Rodin Museum while out in the delightful jardin is where you’ll find his Monument to Balzac and The Thinker brooding among the perfectly sculpted trees and hedges. Going Underground The Paris Catacombs Did you know there’s a secret city deep beneath the streets of Paris that runs to over 130 kilometers of tunnels, passageways, sewers and secret chambers? Not for the faint of heart, the labyrinthine ossuary that comprises the Paris Catacombs lies 20 meters underground and contains the mortal remains of over six million Parisians, relocated here from overflowing Paris cemeteries in the 18th and 19th centuries. Brave the 1.5km circuit through this maze of tunnels for a truly bone-chilling experience. Musée du Vin Grape aficionados will find much to enjoy in the vaulted cellars of the Musée du Vin, not least the part at the end where you’ll get a chance to sample a glass of the good stuff from the museum’s own vineyard. Before that, you’ll learn the history of wine- and Champagne-making in the atmospheric surroundings of these underground limestone caverns, originally used by Order of Minim friars in the 15th Century. Retail Therapy Covered Passages There are 20 or so covered passages to explore in and around Paris’s Grands Boulevards. Designed to attract the city’s more discerning shoppers, these elegant Parisian arcades are masterclasses in 19th-century architecture and engineering. Their many decorative features include glass-and-iron canopies and soaring domes, intricate tiled floors and old-fashioned wooden storefronts. Inside, you’ll discover chic boutiques aplenty, alongside antique emporia, cute cafés and bustling brasseries. Passage du Jouffroy is one of the city’s most popular arcades, with its gleaming geometric tiling, ornate stucco clock and delightful 19th-century Librairie du Passage bookstore, where new and antiquarian books pile up precipitously in corners and defy gravity on the overstacked shelves. There’s even a tiny wax museum, which has been operating here for nearly 150 years. At 190 meters, Passage Choiseul is the longest of Paris’s covered passages. Grab a pain au chocolat and stroll past watchmakers’ windows, jewelry stores and much more along its narrow length. Galeries Lafayette Galeries Lafayette Haussmann elevates your shopping trip from mere retail to a near-religious experience. Marvel at the ornate galleries and cathedral-like five-story atrium that’s topped with a remarkable steel-and-class cupola. Designed by glass artist Jacques Grüber in the early 20th Century, this soaring 43-meter-high masterpiece is the building’s pièce de résistance, flowering out magnificently from the rooftop. There’s a terrace up here, too, from where widescreen views of the city skyline – including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral and Sacré Cœur – reward those with a head for heights. Tours are available. Inside this chic Paris mega-mall, there are 65,000 square meters of big-name boutiques to explore, with luxury brands from Armani to Zadig & Voltaire, plus a Decléor spa, hair salons, Chanel treatment booths and 20+ cafés and restaurants. If that’s not enough to keep you entertained all day long, Galeries Lafayette also offers a range of none-more-Parisian bolt-on experiences including a catwalk fashion show and a macaron-making class, where you’ll learn to make the delicate French fancies, before tucking into your creations. Booking is essential. That’s Entertainment Life is a cabaret, old chum, and nowhere more so than in Paris. No visit here would be complete without experiencing at least one of the dazzling array of cabaret and risqué burlesque shows on offer. Naturellement, the Moulin Rouge with its iconic red windmill is the best-known (and arguably the best), but there are dozens more to choose from, running the gamut from old-fashioned crooners, can-cans and audience sing-alongs to high-octane acrobatics and modern dance. Whichever show you opt for, expect lavish costumes, bags of energy and a healthy dollop of high camp. Cinephiles are also spoilt for choice in Paris, where the majority of cinemas screen movies in their original language with French subtitles, meaning language needn’t be a barrier to catching a classic or enjoying the latest blockbuster. Settle in at atmospheric old picture houses including the Louxor, a stunning century-old mash-up of Egyptian and Art Deco design, and the Grand Rex, home to one of the biggest screens in Europe. Pro-tip: the French word for ‘popcorn’ is ‘popcorn’ so you can even leave the phrasebook at home! Save on indoor activities in Paris Save on admission to Paris attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram and Facebook for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
The Eiffel Tower from across the River Seine
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Should you visit Paris in August?

A few short years ago August would have been seen as a terrible time to visit Paris. And whilst some still stick to this old cliché, many others, us included, now see August as one of the best times of year to visit the French capital. Why the about face? It’s simple really. Although hotels might ratchet up their prices, Paris in August enjoys great weather and a plethora of events sure to have you returning year after year. Relive Seurat’s A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte The River Seine rightly takes the limelight when it comes to the best loved things to do in Paris in August. And let’s face it, why wouldn’t it? What could be better than enjoying a drink or late-night DJ set from aboard one of the peniche boat bars moored along its banks? Or opting for a river cruise passing by the city’s most famous sights on a warm mid-summer evening? Or even the chance to flop into a deckchair, as if you’re in the south of France rather than the center of the capital? The latter is possible thanks to the Paris Plages program of beaches and pools which crop up along the right bank of the Seine in July and August each year. If you prefer your seas a little warmer, head instead to the Aquarium de Paris. Suitable for adults as much as younger visitors, its tanks contain everything from jellyfish to sea turtles and no less than four species of shark. Delve into the capital’s history One of the most important occasions in Parisian history is marked on August 25 – at the Liberation of Paris Festival. It commemorates the surrender of Nazi forces in August 1944 to a mix of Free French, British and American troops. The festival kicks off at midday with firemen replicating the climb up the Eiffel Tower to unfurl the French tricolore. This is followed by a parade and then music at the Hôtel de Ville. The Order of the Liberation Museum is open daily for anyone interested in the full story. To pay your respects to the great and the good of French history, consider instead the Latin Quarter’s Panthéon. Built by King Louis XV to house the relics of the city’s patron saint, after the French Revolution it was converted into a national mausoleum. Among the 80 burials and memorials are those to philosopher Voltaire, writer Victor Hugo and Nobel prize winning scientist Marie Curie, one of just a handful of women honored. On the western edge of the nearby Jardin du Luxembourg stands one of several replicas of the Statue of Liberty in Paris. It’s one of around one hundred statues dotted about the garden, at 1/16th the scale of the New York original. Paris in August with the kids Younger visitors to Paris may not appreciate the significance of events such as the Liberation of Paris Festival. But they certainly won’t get bored with the number of child-friendly things to do in Paris in August. With the added bonus of soothing tired legs, an open-top Hop-on Hop-off bus is a great way to connect up sights from the storefronts of the Champs-Élysées to the gothic masterpiece of Notre-Dame Cathedral, which has survived revolution and fire during its 800 year history. Thrill seekers should instead turn their attention to Parc Astérix. The second-largest theme park anywhere in France, it boasts over 40 attractions, including seven rollercoasters and a further seven water rides. All are based on the comic book series following the lives of ancient Gaul’s tribes. Meanwhile, the Place de la Concorde is occupied from July until the end of August with the Fête des Tuileries. An authentic traditional funfair, attractions here include a tin can alley, hook-a-duck, carousels and stalls selling candy-floss and freshly-made donuts. Make the most of the summer weather Yet another reason to stay in Paris in August is the giant screen belonging to the open-air movie theater which stands amongst the trees of Parc de la Villette in northern Paris. Bring a picnic, rent a deckchair and a blanket, and enjoy evening screenings of everything from French indie cinema to cult classics. Movies are shown in their original language with French subtitles as necessary. Few subtitles are needed for the Rock en Seine festival, which literally rocks the Domaine National de Saint-Cloud park at the historic gates of Paris over three days in August. Creating a memorable contrast with their 17th-Century surroundings, the five stages host internationally-renowned bands such as Royal Blood and Eels alongside homegrown up-and-coming talent. Summer in Paris doesn’t come to an end until the arrival of the Tréteaux nomades traveling festival at Montmartre arena. Almost impossible to pigeon-hole, the festival uses French characters you’ll know and love from classic works – for example Quasimodo and Cinderella – in totally new and sometimes subversive ways. Enjoy first class art It’s difficult to visit Paris in any month of the year without a stop at the Louvre, dominating the right bank of the Seine. With enough artworks to keep you busy for an entire lifetime, highlights include the da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. Almost immediately opposite on the rive gauche (left bank) stands the beaux arts edifice of the Musée d’Orsay. Built as a railway station in 1898, it has been a gallery dedicated to French art since a major renovation in 1986. Monet, Degas and Gauguin are all well represented. Fans of modern art need look no further than the Musée National d’Art Moderne at the Pompidou Center – Europe’s biggest modern art museum. A who’s who of the 20th-Century art world, its walls hang with greats including Pablo Picasso, Frida Kahlo and Willem de Kooning. Save on attraction admission in Paris in August One of the sunniest months of the year in the French capital, Paris in August is not to be avoided as some would have you believe. Alive with summertime activities and outdoor events, it is in fact a great time to visit Paris. Make the most of your trip by saving on admission to many of the top attractions with Go City. The All-Inclusive Pass allows you to see as many attractions as you like within a given period at reduced cost. The Explorer Pass gives you 60 days in which to marvel at up to seven different attractions.
Ian Packham
Versailles Paris
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Best time to visit Paris

Paris has a wealth of world-renowned attractions to entice you at any time of the year. From iconic landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe to romantic architecture and amazing food and shopping. But some months are better than others depending on your particular interests. The city can fall victim to its fair share of rainfall and some months can be cold and grey. But don’t let this put you off. We’ve pulled together the perfect guide to help you enjoy the city whenever you want to visit. Simply select your ideal month and enjoy.... Our month-by-month guide to the perfect Parisian break January – fireworks and café crème to sensational shopping February – Valentine’s Day romance and Paris Fashion Week pizzazz March – colorful carnivals and magical museums April – hitting the markets of Montmartre and Notre Dame May – jazz pizzazz and perfect parks June – sublime summer rides and the Palace of Versailles July – jump in the pool August – café culture and the Belle Epoque September – chic shopping and directional design October – gastronomic delights November – time for fine wines December – the City of Light in lights at its brightest January Winter in Paris is certainly a cold one, with temperatures averaging around seven degrees, and some days hitting below zero. But there’s a lot on offer to melt the chill from the get-go, starting as soon as the clock strikes 12 on January 1. The dazzling New Year’s Eve fireworks display on the Champs-Élysées will fire you up with its electrifying colors as you witness the monumental Arc du Triomphe glow gold against a rainbow night sky. The city’s decorative ancient streets are equally entrancing if you’re lucky enough to catch them on a glitteringly frosty winter’s day. Don’t forget to pop inside one of the amazing boutiques in this world-class shopping city to grab yourself a bargain in the winter sales. Once you’re weighed down with shopping bags, escape into the warmth of a cozy café and grab a delightful café crème and French pastry to soothe your winter soul. Average temperature: 4 degrees Average rainfall: 14 days Average sunshine hours: 1 hour February If you fancy a romantic or decadent escape in February in time for Valentine’s Day, then Paris offers an intoxicating mix of tempting attractions. Why not drift down the city’s World Heritage listed River Seine on a relaxing cruise, giving you the perfect opportunity to take in the city’s most beautiful sights in peace. Experience panoramic views of key landmarks like the Notre Dame from a new perspective and stop off at sights that capture your interest most. Then make a beeline for a spot of indulgence at Paris’s Gourmet Chocolate Museum, a definite must-see for every chocoholic. Sample cocoa delights while being told about the history of chocolate making to see how the dreamy treat is made. Fashion lovers will also rejoice at this time of year thanks to Paris Fashion Week, which hits the Parisian catwalks for its fall-winter shows, giving you the perfect excuse to waltz the stunning streets like you’re a runway model yourself. Head to the city’s iconic luxury fashion houses centered around Rue Cambon and Rue Royale to deck yourself out in style. Getting in: show your Go Paris pass to gain free entry into the Gourmet Chocolate Museum. Average temperature: 6 degrees Average rainfall: 13 days Average sunshine hours: 2 hours March The city still tends to have a chill in the air in March, and a mix of clouds and rain can spell trouble, but don’t let this dampen your spirits. The kaleidoscopic Carnaval des Femmes or ‘Washerwoman’s Festival’ is a vibrant visual treat that will undoubtedly brighten your day. Expect 4,000 fancy-dress enthusiasts descending on the city streets in colorful clothes, with music and dancing thrown in. But if full-on carnival drama isn’t your thing, then you can also escape the dreary weather by heading to one of the city’s many magical museums. Why not head to the epic Musee de Louvre with its amazing collection of over 35,000 pieces of art, including Leonardo Da Vinci’s famous Mona Lisa, or the magnificent Palais Garnier Opera House, a truly opulent Beaux-Arts building featuring a spell-binding seven-tonne crystal chandelier. A trip to the Dalí' Museum will also fill you with wonder thanks to its picture-perfect exhibits of his surrealist masterpieces. Average temperature: 9 degrees Average rainfall: 14 days Average sunshine hours: 2 hours April Spring is finally in the air by April, making it the ideal time to get out and about in the city’s most captivating neighborhoods. Montmartre is a great one to explore, with its charming village-like atmosphere. This serene but bustling place was the hub of creativity during the city’s Belle Époque in the 18th Century when world-renowned artists like Monet and Picasso flocked to the neighborhood to live the beautiful life. Today this beauty can be witnessed in the district’s cute cobblestone streets filled with colorful buildings, chic dining venues and tempting food options. Taking a guided walking tour of the district is the ideal way to experience all of its splendor. The Go Paris pass entitles you to a great one where you can see the striking sights while sampling fine cheeses and wines from local food artisans along the way – the perfect way to welcome in springtime. Average temperature: 11 degrees Average rainfall: 14 days Average sunshine hours: 5 hours May The average hours of sunshine in Paris start to ramp up in May, so embrace the outdoors with a walk around some of its most impressive parks, which should be in full bloom with spring flowers at this time. Jardins des Tuileries, between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde, is a green and grand choice thanks to its tree-lined avenues lined with classical statues and sensational views of the museum, while Jardin de Plantes near the River Seine erupts into a sea of color saturation thanks to its exotic botanical garden and the presence of pink flamingos. Add to the bright and breezy springtime vibe by sampling an outdoor jazz session as part of the annual Jazz Festival of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Average temperature: 15 degrees Average rainfall: 12 days Average sunshine hours: 6 hours June Summer officially starts in June, with brighter skies and much less rainfall. This calls for a road trip around the city’s top sights, and what better way to do this than in a quintessentially French Citroen 2CV. A Go Paris pass includes a super fun trip around Montmartre in these cars, giving you the chance to see one of the chicest parts of the city while gaining vintage style points in the process. June is also a great time to branch out a bit to sample some of the city’s stunning surroundings. A trip to the breathtaking Palace of Versailles on the city’s outskirts will undoubtedly leave you in awe as you stroll around intricately landscaped gardens while marveling at the stately architecture of this world-famous royal pleasure ground. Average temperature: 16 degrees Average rainfall: 11 days Average sunshine hours: 6 hours July July is one of the hottest months of the year in Paris, so why not head to an outdoor pool if the heat is on, where you can sunbathe and swim as if you were lounging on a beach in the French Riviera. While local Parisians flock to the busy coastlines of the country at this time, the city’s outdoor places and pools feel pleasantly calm and peaceful in their absence, leaving you free to relax in the sun without any distraction. Simply choose your pool and jump in. We recommend giving the Joséphine Baker Pool a whirl for its waterside River Seine views, or the Centre Aquatique de Neuilly-sur-Seine for its amazing facilities, which feature three pools, a spa, saunas, sunbathing areas and an obligatory poolside bar. Who needs Nice? Average temperature: 20 degrees Average rainfall: 11 days Average sunshine hours: 8 hours August August temperatures can be blissfully balmy, so it really is the perfect month to take in as many amazing city sights as you can. First, create your own ultimate Paris bucket list depending on what interests you. Want to snap classic photos at world-famous landmarks? Then head straight to the Arc de Triomphe and Notre Dame. Art enthusiast? Then don’t miss the striking Musée D'Orsay, a 19th-century mansion filled with palatial antiques and priceless artworks from the likes of Cézanne and Van Gogh. Or perhaps you want to chill with a picnic in picturesque surroundings? Then the gardens of the Trocadéro should suffice with their spectacular views of the Champs de Mars and Eiffel Tower. If you want to do it all while the sun is beating down, then a Go Paris hop-on, hop-off bus pass is your choice ticket. Average temperature: 20 degrees Average rainfall: 10 days Average sunshine hours: 8 hours September Make the most of the last days of summer in September by perusing Paris at a relaxed pace. Spend your days sipping coffee and delighting in the pleasures of French pastries and macarons at the many gorgeous open-terrace cafés that dot the city, or seek out tranquil hidden slices of Paris with a unique walking tour. A Paris attraction pass offers several, but one of the most intriguing is the walking tour through the city’s covered passages, where you can discover eye-catching boutiques in gloriously designed arcades. Think patterned tiled floors, gracefully decorative storefronts and quirky architectural features everywhere you look. Another great option is the Bohemian walking tour that meanders through the ultra-hip districts of Saint-Germain and Saint-Michel, where the likes of Ernest Hemingway and Jim Morrison used to hang. Average temperature: 16 degrees Average rainfall: 11 days Average sunshine hours: 8 hours October Autumn days see darker evenings and dropping temperatures, so give the city’s endless gastronomic treats a try by spending lazy days hopping from farmer’s markets to luxe restaurants in the city’s world-leading dining scene. France dominates when it comes to Michelin-starred dining, having more restaurants of this type than any other country in the world, and Paris is home to a quarter of this, so if you want to splurge and dine like royalty, then this is the place to do it. But good food options are everywhere you look, so no need to splash the cash if you don’t want to. Try out a delicious range of delicacies at the market stalls opposite Notre Dame Cathedral for example, or find subdued eateries serving avant-garde dishes in the Latin Quarter or Saint-Germain. You’ll be totally spoilt for choice. Average temperature: 12 degrees Average rainfall: 13 days Average sunshine Hours: 5 hours November You simply can’t visit Paris without sampling some of the city’s fine wines. During the Beaujolais Noveau Day on the third Thursday of November, you can do just this at a brilliant festival that celebrates France’s annual grape harvest with music, fireworks and endless bouts of wine tasting. If you miss the day, then why not book yourself up for a cozy wine and cheese tasting session, where you can try the best cheeses and wines that France has to offer. Our passes include a tempting one at the Ô Château Wine Bar, where you can sample over 50 different wines by the glass while trying creamy French cheeses and charcuteries. Get me there: this fabulous tasting session can be booked as part of your Go City Paris All-Inclusive or Explorer pass. Average temperature: 7 degrees Average rainfall: 15 days Average sunshine hours: 2 hours December The final month of the year is a cold one, with average temperatures around 5 degrees. But don’t let this put you off your trip. The City of Lights perhaps shines at its brightest during this festive time of year, when the city streets are dripping in psychedelic Christmas decorations. Get into the festive spirit by ice skating with a spectacular view at one of the dedicated ice rinks, set up in front of many key Parisian landmarks including the Eiffel Tower and the Grand Palais. Then head to one of the many atmospheric Christmas markets on offer across the city to indulge in the best festive fare, from mulled wine to roasted chestnuts and more. Happy holidays! Average temperature: 5 degrees Average rainfall: 15 days Average sunshine hours: 2 hours Save on admission to top Paris attractions Explore a wealth of amazing things to do when you're in Paris with the Go Paris pass. Select from top attractions with our All-Inclusive and Explorer passes, where you’ll enjoy access to must-see museums, exciting river cruises, fun tours, and much more. Share Your Adventure with Us Tag us at @GoCity on your travel photos to keep us up to date with your vacation!
Lee Dales

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