Paris in Spring: What to See and Do (The Ultimate Guide)🌸
Paris in spring—if there’s one city that knows how to do spring, it’s Paris. The sky turns this perfect shade of blue, the city awakens from its winter slumber, and everywhere you turn, there’s an Instagram-worthy moment waiting to happen.
From the sweet scent of the blooming flowers in gorgeous gardens to the warm breeze on the Seine, spring in Paris is everything you’d imagine and more. The streets come alive with buzzing cafés, and it feels like everyone in the city is suddenly wearing their best outfits, showing off the best versions of themselves.
Paris in the springtime? It’s like a romance novel you’ve been waiting to read.
But hey, before you go thinking that Paris in the spring is all sunshine and roses (well, there are plenty of roses), let’s talk about a couple of things.
One: the crowds. Spring is high season in Paris, and you might find yourself weaving through throngs of tourists who are all after the same perfect view or selfie spot.
Two: the occasional rain shower. It’s Paris, after all, and spring means unpredictable weather. But, honestly, it wouldn’t be Paris without a little rain to add that dramatic flair to your day, right?
Despite the crowds and a few wet moments, spring in Paris is simply magical—and I’m about to tell you exactly how to make the most of it, minus the stress.
Paris in Spring: What to See and Do (The Ultimate Guide)
Table of Contents
1. Flower Power at Jardin des Tuileries and Jardin du Luxembourg
You can kick things off with two of Paris’ most iconic gardens because, let’s face it, who doesn’t want to see Paris in full bloom? The Jardin des Tuileries, located between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, is an absolute must-see in the spring.
The formal gardens are lined wit hedges and perfectly placed fountains, but it’s the sea of flowers that steals the show. Spring means tulips, roses, and daffodils galore—making it a prime spot to stop for a little photoshoot.
And if you want to rest those tired feet from all the walking, plop yourself on one of the green chairs scattered around the garden and watch the world go by. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a dream (with a cup of coffee in hand, obviously).
If you’re craving a bit more of a peaceful experience (without the loud tourists), you should head to Jardin du Luxembourg in the Latin Quarter. This garden is a little more laid-back than the Tuileries, but that’s part of its charm.
You can spend hours here just wandering, finding quiet spots to sit by fountains or under tree canopies. The garden is massive, so take your time! Whether you’re into people-watching or enjoying the historical statues and flowers, this park will instantly make you feel like you’ve found a secret corner of Paris that not many know about.
Plus, there’s always the chance you’ll stumble upon a local event or a jazz band playing just for you. It’s a hidden gem that perfectly captures the essence of spring in Paris.
Tip: If you’re there on a Saturday morning, you should swing by the flower market at Place des Vosges. You’ll find beautiful, locally-grown blooms and might even leave with a bouquet in hand.
2. Climb the Eiffel Tower (Without the Line Drama)
We can’t talk about Paris in spring without mentioning the Eiffel Tower, can we? Of course not! This iconic landmark is on the bucket list of pretty much everyone visiting the City of Lights, but let’s be real—nobody loves waiting in long lines, especially when you’re in a city as exciting as Paris.
So, what’s the best way to see the Eiffel Tower without wasting precious time? Skip the line, my friend.
The Eiffel Tower is breathtaking, yes, but the lines can sometimes feel like they go on forever, and with the spring crowds? Well, you don’t want to waste your entire day in one.
Here’s the secret: book a skip-the-line ticket or a guided tour. Not only do you bypass the headache-inducing queues, but you also get an insider’s perspective. Your guide will take you to the best spots for photos, and might even throw in a cool fact or two about the tower’s construction or its famous 1889 World’s Fair debut.
It’s a way to experience the Eiffel Tower while making your trip feel a lot less touristy.
And the view from the top? Unreal. In the spring, you’ll see Paris looking like a patchwork quilt of rooftops and greenery. The trees in the parks are gorgeous and full of life, and the city stretches out in every direction.
Whether you’re snapping pictures or just taking in the moment, the Eiffel Tower gives you a whole new appreciation for this beautiful city.
Tip: For a more relaxed experience, consider booking a champagne dinner on the Eiffel Tower itself. You can enjoy Paris at night while sipping on bubbly and watching the city light up below you. Trust me, it’s totally worth it.
3. Get Lost in Montmartre’s Magical Streets
Montmartre is like a hidden treasure of Paris. If you want to avoid the big tourist crowds and experience the “real” Paris, this is the neighborhood to wander. The spring weather in Montmartre is perfect for taking a slow stroll through the winding streets.
One minute, you’re walking past artists setting up their easels, and the next, you’re surrounded by vibrant cafĂ©s where you can sip espresso and watch the world go by, you can even join a guided food tour to indulge in some of the best Parisian cuisine ever.
There’s something about the vibe in Montmartre that just feels right—like you’re in on the secret everyone else has yet to discover.
If you’re not already picturing yourself snapping selfies by the famous Place du Tertre, you should be. This square is packed with artists selling their paintings, sketches, and portraits—it makes you feel like you’ve stepped into the Paris of old.
Don’t forget to visit the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur, which sits at the top of Montmartre hill. It’s a bit of a climb, but once you’re up there, you’re treated to one of the most jaw-dropping views of Paris.
The basilica itself is simply breath-taking, and the surrounding neighborhood? Pure Parisian gold. So take your time, find a quiet spot, and just enjoy the moment. Who knows? You might just get inspired to pick up a paintbrush yourself!
4. Explore Paris’ Iconic Museums (And Skip the Lines!)
Paris really knows how to do museums, right? I mean, we’re talking about the Louvre, the MusĂ©e d’Orsay, the Centre Pompidou, and so many more.
There’s no shortage of cultural spots in Paris, and spring is the perfect time to visit—especially since you’ll have the added bonus of gorgeous weather and fewer indoor tourists (after all, no one wants to be stuck in a museum on a sunny spring day!).
The Louvre is home to thousands of works of art, including the famous Mona Lisa. Don’t let the size of the museum overwhelm you. Instead of seeing every single piece of art (which, honestly, would take days), prioritize what you really want to see.
My suggestion? The Greek and Roman statues section, and of course, the Mona Lisa. But if you want to get away from the crowds, be sure to check out the less trafficked sections like the Egyptian antiquities or the Napoleon III Apartments.
You should definitely join a guided tour so you can get the full experience and learn about museum’s history and it’s incredible art.
If you’re more into Impressionism, head to the MusĂ©e d’Orsay, which is housed in an old train station. The collection here is all about the works from the 19th and 20th centuries, with masterpieces by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.
The museum itself is just as impressive as the art—it’s filled with natural light and features that cool, old-world vibe. Plus, you can grab a seat at the museum café and sip coffee while staring at a Monet. It doesn’t get much more Parisian than that.
5. Take a Seine River Cruise: Paris from the Water
If you want to see Paris in the most romantic way possible, then a Seine River cruise is a must. The Seine runs right through the heart of the city, offering views of some of the most famous landmarks, including the Notre-Dame Cathedral, Eiffel Tower, and Pont Neuf.
But here’s the best part: during spring, when the weather is perfect, the whole experience is even more magical. The boat glides down the river, and you get to sit back, relax, and just take in the city from a whole new perspective.
I highly recommend doing a sunset cruise. There’s something absolutely special about seeing Paris at golden hour. The Eiffel Tower starts to glow in the distance, and the bridges over the Seine light up with street lamps.
It’s dreamy in a way that’s hard to explain until you’re actually there. Trust me, it’s one of those moments that will stick with you long after your trip is over.
Other articles you may find helpful:
- Must-Have Travel Essentials for Spring
- Ultimate Europe Packing List for Spring
- 9 Spring Break Places You Need To See
- 8 Luxury Spring Destinations That Will Spoil
6. Picnic in the Park: A Parisian Tradition
No trip to Paris in the spring would be complete without indulging in the city’s ultimate pastime: the picnic. With its beautiful parks, plenty of green space, and easy access to fresh baguettes, cheese, and wine, Paris was practically made for picnicking.
Whether you’re sprawled out on the grass in Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, relaxing by the Seine, or sitting near the Champs de Mars with a view of the Eiffel Tower, a picnic is the perfect way to enjoy a sunny spring day.
Pick up some classic French snacks from a local market: fresh baguettes, cheeses, charcuterie, and maybe even a bottle of wine (if you’re feeling fancy). Find a spot on the grass, relax, and let the day unfold.
Honestly, a picnic in Paris in spring is one of those experiences that feels so simple but also so deeply satisfying. And who knows? You might just make a couple of new friends along the way—because the French sure know how to picnic.
7. Discover the Secret Passages of Paris (Les Passages Couverts)
Here’s something that not everyone knows about Paris. The city has hidden arcades and passageways, also known as Les Passages Couverts, that tucked away in places you’d least expect.
These covered arcades date back to the 19th century and are the perfect place to experience Paris without the crowds. You can wander through the glass-covered hallways, where you’ll find boutiques, vintage bookstores, and cafés tucked away in corners.
The Galerie Vivienne is one of the most famous ones, and it’s a great place to shop for something unique while learning about the history of the place.
Spring is a great time to explore these passages because it’s a peaceful escape from the usual buzz of the city. Plus, they’re absolutely adorable—talk about a perfect Instagram moment!
8. Take a Day Trip to Versailles Gardens
Yes, the Palace of Versailles is fantastic, but if you’re looking for an even more magical experience, spring is the best time to explore the gardens.
The Versailles gardens are located just a short train ride from Paris, and they come alive with perfectly manicured lawns, fountains, and flowers in bloom during the spring season.
The famous Grand Canal has a peaceful setting for a nice picnic, and you can even rent a little boat to row around.
If you want to skip the crowds and explore at your own pace, the gardens are perfect for a day trip. Plus, you’ll have the chance to breathe in the fresh air and escape the busy city streets for a while.
Wrapping Up
Paris in spring is all about balance. Sure, you’ll have a few crowds to dodge, and a little rain might surprise you, but the sheer beauty and magic of the city make it totally worth it.
Exploring gardens in full bloom, sipping coffee by the Seine, every moment will feel like it’s straight out of a dream.
And if you want to make the most of it, just follow these tips, skip those long lines, and take your time soaking in all the culture, food, and beauty that Paris has to offer.
