Let’s be real – figuring out things to do in Paris in May is overwhelming. You’ve probably scrolled through endless lists, only to feel more lost. The truth is, May in Paris is magical – blooming gardens, vibrant festivals, and longer days.
But if you don’t plan it right, you could miss the best of it. Imagine wasting hours in line or skipping hidden gems just because you didn’t know. It’s frustrating, especially when you’re dreaming of an unforgettable Paris experience.
But don’t worry; I’ve got you covered. In this guide, I’ll show you exactly where to go, what to do, and how to make the most of Paris in May. Ready to make it a trip to remember? Let’s dive in.
Key Takeaways
- May in Paris offers pleasant weather, blooming gardens, and longer daylight hours, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- Visitors can enjoy events like the Taste of Paris Festival, Saint Germain Jazz Festival, Roland-Garros, and European Museums Night.
- Must-visit sites include the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Palace of Versailles, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, with advanced ticket booking recommended.
- Enjoy outdoor cafés, rooftop bars, Seine River cruises, and seasonal French cuisine, including fresh produce and spring flavors.
- Pack light layers, book tickets and accommodations in advance, use the metro for transportation, and stay cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
Why Visit Paris in May?
May is the perfect time to experience Paris. The city’s gardens are in full bloom, bringing vibrant colors and scents to life. You’ll find milder temperatures, making it ideal for exploring without the summer crowds.
One of the best things to do in Paris in May is enjoy the outdoor festivals. The city hosts art fairs and music events. They offer unique, Parisian cultural experiences. Plus, you’ll have the chance to enjoy longer daylight hours, which means more time to explore each day.
If you’re a foodie, May is also a treat. Seasonal markets are filled with fresh produce. Café terraces open up. This creates a perfect atmosphere for a relaxing meal. Whether you’re into art, nature, or cuisine, May in Paris offers something special for everyone.
Paris Weather in May: What to Expect
May in Paris offers mild, pleasant weather with highs around 64°F (18°C) and occasional light rain. It’s a great month for sightseeing. But, be ready for rain. Bring layers and a small umbrella for any showers.
Average Temperatures in May
May in Paris brings a comfortable climate with average highs around 64°F (18°C) and lows around 50°F (10°C). It’s warm enough for sightseeing but cool enough to keep you comfortable as you explore. On rainy days, a small umbrella or a waterproof jacket will keep you dry. They won’t weigh down your bag.
Rain Patterns and How They Affect Plans
Paris weather in May can be unpredictable, with occasional rain showers. This rain might affect your outdoor plans, but don’t worry—it’s usually more of a light drizzle than a downpour. You’ll still have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the city’s outdoor activities.
What to Pack for Varying Conditions
Packing wisely is essential for a comfortable trip. Bring layers, like a light sweater and a jacket, so you’re ready for both warmer and cooler days. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring Paris’s charming streets. For rainy days, a small umbrella or a waterproof jacket will help keep you dry without weighing down your bag.
Practical Tips for Staying Comfortable
A practical tip? Dress in layers and keep an umbrella or raincoat handy. This way, you’re prepared for anything Paris’s spring weather throws at you—rain or shine, you’ll be ready to enjoy all the city has to offer.
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| 👉 Booking.Com | 👉 Eiffel Tower (Book Now) |
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Top Annual Events in Paris (May)
May is the season of spring in Paris. Spring is a magical time in Paris. At this time, Paris becomes colorful and blooms flowers. Tourists are drawn to the romantic weather and sights of Paris. In May, many annual events are organized.
These events are very popular worldwide. As a result, many tourists visit Paris in May. Here I explain some popular annual events in Paris, which will be your destination in May.
Taste of Paris Festival
Taste of Paris is a famous food festival in the world. It is a four-day event that is generally organized in May. Every year, this event hosted the Grand Palais. In this event, will join the world’s famous chefs.
They are especially from Thailand, the Middle East, Greece, and France. They are showing their unique styles of cook and promoting their brand here.
- Practical Information:
Address: 3 avenue du Général Eisenhower 75008 Paris.
Upcoming Dates: From 8 to 11 May, 2025
Entry Access: Must buy a ticket from their website before your entrance.
Saint Germain Jazz Festival
Saint Germain Jazz Festival was founded in 2001 by Joël Le Roy, Frédéric Charbaut, and Donatienne Hantin. It is a very famous festival for music lovers. It will be organized from May 13 to May 20.
The festival becomes one of the capital jazz events. It offers exceptional concerts every year. They organized their concerts in different venues in Paris on different days. If you want more information about the schedule and venues, you can visit their websites.
Roland-Garros (French Open)
Tennis fans know it as the French Open. It is over 100 years old tournaments. The French Tennis Federation organizes the tournament. It is held annually at Roland Garros Stadium in Paris, France.
The Ronald Garros or French Open starts in Late May and the tournament ends after two weeks (From 19 May to 8 June 2025). It’s a popular tournament for Persian people and attracts a large crowd over the stadium.
They sell their ticket for a certain time each year. So, check their official websites before buying tickets.
European Museums Night
The European Museum Night was organized 20 years ago. Tourists visit the museums to discover an original way as night falls. The festival was organized on 18 May. People of all ages enjoy exploring the museum’s art, history, popular traditions, and science. They love the festive, friendly atmosphere.
Classic Parisian Landmarks to Visit in May
Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower Is one of the most iconic monuments in the world. The name Eiffel is named after the designer engineer Gustave Eiffel. The Tower was established 135 years ago. It is one of the tallest human-made landmarks in the world.
Paris is known as the city of romance and the Eiffel Tower is the heart place of Paris. Every year, millions of visitors come to Paris to explore the iconic Eiffel Tower.
Basically, making a tour trip to the Eiffel Tower in May gives you a heart-touching experience. The weather in Paris is generally mild and convenient. It is the perfect time to visit the Tower. Besides during your visit time, you can do some things to do at this place in May. For example:
You can climb the Top of the Eiffel Tower and enjoy panoramic views. The second floor of the Eiffel Tower creates the attraction of tourists for the different facilities. You can see the whole of Paris city by using a telescope from this floor. There are some popular restaurants with unique foods.
Note: If you want to visit the second floor you must have an entry ticket. To get an entry ticket you can visit this website- Paris: Eiffel Tower Summit or Second Floor Access
You can fantastically explore the Eiffel Towe by Seine Cruise. It’s an interesting journey with the river cruise. On this cruise, you can walk around and choose your seat. The top deck has a great view of the monuments. You can also sit inside, where there are large windows. It will give you a great experience in spring weather.
Note: you can book a ticket to skip the line from this link- Paris: 1-Hour Seine Cruise starting at the Eiffel Tower
Louvre Museum
The Louvre Museum is the national museum of Paris. It is one of the renowned museums all over the world. There are collected Thousands of historical elements. Such as Paintings. Drawings, Art of the Book, Arms, Coins, Sculptures, Domestic Items, Personal Items, etc.
Every year millions of tourists visit the Louvre Museum. The main attraction of visitors is the Mona Lisa paintings. It is the masterpiece artwork of Leonardo da Vinci. It is the most iconic artwork of the Italian Renaissance. Many visitors explore the museum for this item.
The Louvre Museum is one of the busiest museums in the world. But it is true that it is difficult to get an entry ticket from the official website. You must buy a ticket in advance to skip the line. On the other hand, you can buy tickets from the authorized website- Tours Travel Finder. They provide many other additional facilities including their tickets.
Palace of Versailles
Versailles is a historical luxurious Palace. It is popular for the Royal Residency of King Louis XIV. It carries the historical significance of architectural and political points of view. UNESCO declares that Versailles is a world heritage site. It gives you a magical experience in May.
In front of the Palace, there is a long garden. The Garden of Versailles blooms different types of flowers in spring. This garden has a classical fountain. It creates a nice scene of the Versailles Palace. Many tourists come there to arrange family meetings or picnics.
Note: you need tickets to explore the Palace of Versailles. You can buy tickets from them to skip the line- Versailles Palace and Gardens Full Access Ticket
Notre-Dame Cathedral & Sainte-Chapelle
Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the famous and iconic landmarks in Paris. It is the most famous of the Gothic cathedrals of the Middle Ages and is prominent for its size and architectural design. Visitors come to see the old sculptures, relics, rose windows, and stunning interiors.
Sainte-Chapelle is another iconic Gothic in Paris. It is also known as the Holy Chapel. It is also popular for its architectural design, including flying bitterness. The glass windows are impressive. Sunlight creates a magical play of color and light inside the chapel. May month is perfect to get the proper view of the Sainte-Chapelle. To get access to the Chapelle you can buy tickets from here- Sainte-Chapelle and Conciergerie Combined Tickets
Best Gardens and Parks to Explore in Full Bloom
There are some famous gardens and parks all over Paris city. Tourists have an interest in visiting these places to spend their afternoon time. For example:
Jardin des Tuileries
The Tuileries Garden is a public garden in the 1st arrondissement of Paris. It is between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde. The Garden has a long walkway. People go there to spend their leisure time and meet with friends and colleagues. Sometimes the park is used for different festivals and concerts.
Luxembourg Gardens
The Jardin du Luxembourg is surrounded by the Luxembourg Palace. There are many walkways and a flower garden. A fountain you can find in front of the Palace. Every year, they organize some cultural events and music concerts.
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
The Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is one of the largest green spaces in Paris. It is a very beautiful place and offers natural views. There are many trees all over the park and many birds use the park as their living space. It’s popular with all ages of visitors. Often inside the park, people arrange picnic or get-together programs.
Seasonal Culinary Experiences
In May you can explore different French foods and seasonal foods. For the spring season, you experience berries taste from the foods in Paris.
Outdoor Patios and Rooftop Bars
In spring you get outdoor Patios and Rooftop bars. Most of the outdoor patios and Rooftop bars are closed in winter. If you take a tour in May in Paris, you will get open most of the beautiful outdoor Patios and Rooftop bars. Outdoor Patios give you romantic vibes.
French Spring Flavors
You get some special food and fruits in spring. Very popular in spring are French-style Rice and Tuna Salad, · Strawberry Oat Bars, French-style Deviled Eggs, and Chilled Zucchini Mint. Furthermore, you get asparagus, raspberries, and melon.
Picnic Spots in Paris
Parsi has many green places, which are very popular for picnics. Especially the park and gardens. Jardin du Luxembourg, Parc des Buttes Chaumont, Champ de Mars, and Place Des Vosges are very popular as picnic spots.
Cruises and River Experiences on the Seine
Explore the Seine River. Take scenic cruises and immersive experiences. They offer breathtaking views of Paris and charming French villages.
Popular Seine Cruises
Seine Cruises are very popular in Paris. You can enjoy the city views from the Seine Cruises. It provides a relaxing and romantic journey experience. There are some popular cruises include Bateaux-Mouches, Bateaux Parisiens, Vedettes de Paris, and Bateaux Parisien Dinner Cruise.
Private Boat Rentals
Private Boat Rentals gives you a unique opportunity to journey the Seine River and the city. Whatever, there you can arrange a special event or party for a small group. Paris Yacht Marina offers you luxury Yachts and boats and private charters.
Specialized Cruises (Wine Tasting, Dinner)
Some cruises are giving special offers for the passenger’s dinner or wine party. Some Cruises offer weekly or monthly base party in their cruise.
Cultural Activities and Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots
In May you can do many cultural activities in Paris. There are many cultural events and also music festivals organized in this month.
Parisian Art Galleries and Exhibitions
Most of the famous and important galleries and museums are located in Paris. If you visit Paris you must see the historical paintings and drawings. Most of the museums have large exhibition centers in their buildings. You can take part in the history by exploring the exhibitions in smaller galleries.
Hidden Gems in Montmartre
Montmartre is one of the tourist sites in paris. But beyond the main tourist space, there are also some hidden gems. You can find these places here like Renoir’s Gardens and Café Renoir, Bust of Dalida, Square Marcel Bleustein Blanchet, Un Hôtel Particulier, etc.
Le Marais District
La Marais is very popular for there charming medieval streets. It also represents the pre-revolutionary beautiful buildings and houses. Many small restaurants and shops are there. It gives you peaceful walking tours of historic sites.
Shopping and Fashion Events
You will get many shopping and fashion events in Paris. After the winter many brands innovate their new products. The Paris Fashion Week event is arranged in May. Even many shops giving discounts for their old products.
Parisian Markets in May:
There are many flea markets in Paris. You can get almost everything of daily essential products. Such as foods, fruits, vegetables, clothes, furniture, and decor. You will find some old bookshops and art shops. Which are you get in different places and streets.
Fashion and Designer Pop-Up Stores:
In May, many fashion designers and pop-up store innovate their new products. They offer a new seasonal collection, especially for spring. Pop-Up creates a sense of urgency for customers with its trendy and outstanding display.
Vintage Shops and Boutiques in Le Marais:
Le Marais boasts a famous vintage shop. They make different features with retro clothes. There you get high-quality denim items. There are rare designer items and accessories. You can explore antique furniture, vinyl records, and unique jewelry.
Family-Friendly Activities in Paris in May
Paris is perfect for family and friendly activities in May. There are many gardens and parks. People spend quality time there with their family members and friends.
Disneyland Paris Spring Events
Disneyland Paris is a very popular place for the spring season. There are arranged some events from March to June. Most of the parents come here with their children to explore Disneyland’s beauty and events.
Jardin d’Acclimatation:
Jardin d’Acclimatation Park is very famous for its children’s activities. There is a noticeable place in the Human Zoo. It is the main attraction of this park. On the other hand, there is another animal zoo. Which become it family-oriented leisure park, especially focusing on children’s activities
Cité des Enfants (Science Museum):
Cité des Enfants is the place for children’s entertainment. Children can play with different items in there. They can make houses or buildings by using a gadget. They can do some indoor and outdoor activities here. Even they can explore the Science Museum of Cité des Enfants. Which is made especially for children.
Practical Travel Tips for May Visitors
May is a great month to travel to Paris. Before making a trip you can follow some tips to make your trip more convenient.
Booking Tips:
Paris is most busiest city in paris. So you must book your air ticket before a month to get the best price. You should book your hotel in advance. Even if you visit the most popular places and events. You must visit their websites to get information or book tickets in advance.
However, You should pack your essential clothes and gadgets like, your phone, charger, camera, and glasses. You must pack your emergency medicine.
Transportation Options:
In Paris, Metro is the most popular transport, You can use the metro for your transportation. It gives you a relaxable, time-saving and cheap rate transport experience. On the other hand, there are some private and public transport like buses and taxis.
There are some seine cruises and boats. Which gives you a magical experience of the journey.
Safety Tips and Health Precautions:
In Paris, be alert in crowds, avoid pickpockets, and secure your belongings. Drink bottled water, use sunscreen, and stay hydrated. Also, carry travel insurance and know nearby hospitals.
FAQs About Things to Do in Paris in May
What are the best events in Paris in May?
In May, Paris hosts the Cannes Film Festival, Nuit des Musées, and Roland-Garros. It also hosts various art, fashion, and cultural events.
Is May a good time to visit Paris?
Yes, May is a great time to visit Paris. The weather is mild, outdoor attractions are lively, and events abound.
What should I pack for Paris in May?
Pack light layers, a light jacket, and comfy shoes. Bring an umbrella, sunglasses, and a mix of casual and dressy outfits for tours.
Are museums open in Paris in May?
Yes, most museums in Paris are open in May, though some may close for holidays or special events.
What outdoor activities are popular in Paris during May?
In May, in Paris, people love to picnic in parks, take boat tours, cycle, and attend festivals and concerts.
Conclusion
Paris is a very popular city for tourists. Every year millions of tourists come there to explore their attractive places. However, Paris becomes romantic in the spring season. The weather becomes charming and enjoyable. As a result, many cultural festivals and events are organized this time. Moreover, May month is also popular for Outdoor activities. People arrange picnics and get-together events this month. Overall, it become a tourist-friendly month in Paris.
