SPRING TIME IN PARIS
Exquisite French scented candles coupled with first class French wine and it is not hard to see that we love all of the French beauty! Of course that includes Paris, and Spring in Paris is one of our favourite times during the year! Paris bursts with new life in Spring. The gardens start blooming, the street markets are bustling and the cafes are busy with people sitting outside people watching, drinking coffee and eating incredible culinary delights. Add the touch of the pretty pink blossoms and magnolia trees, gorgeous green parks, chocolate filled Easter celebrations, a dash of romance and you have a season packed with Parisian charm.
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WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE?
The weather in Paris in Spring is starting to warm up! Temperatures increase from an average high of 12°C (54°F) in March to 20°C (68°F) in May, with overnight lows from 5–11°C (41–52°F). It’s a beautiful time to explore the city before it gets too hot. No one likes to sweat while wandering around one of the most beautiful cities in the world! You might need a little something warm for the evenings though, especially if you’re visiting early in the season. It is also a good idea to pack an umbrella as there are around 12–14 days’ rainfall a month during Spring.
OUR FAVOURITE THINGS TO DO IN PARIS IN SPRING
DISCOVER THE SPRING BLOOMS
The pretty pink blooms are a photographers dream! Crowds gather in popular spots, like the Trocadero Gardens, the Parc du Champ de Mars and Square Jean XXIII by Notre Dame Cathedral (some limited access here due to the 2019 fire).
If you are willing to travel a little further out of Paris there’s an amazing display at the Parc de Sceaux. This 440-acre park was designed by Andre Le Nôtre, who also created the gardens at the Palace of Versailles, and is a short 25 minute journey on RER line B from central Paris. The cherry trees usually bloom in April however it is dependent on the weather as to exactly when the blooming will take place. There is also a stunning castle and loads of patisseries, you won't know what to eat next!
Fancy seeing the Eiffel Tower in the background of the blossoms? Then make sure you head to the Champ de Mars. It is filled to the brim with blossom trees which is the perfect photo opportunity! If the weather allows and it is not too crowded, this is a beautiful picnic spot.
Situated along rue de Rivoli, Metro Saint Paul can be found in the very heart of the Latin Quarter and is a thriving hub of activity. Steps away from the Saint Paul Village (filled with antique and brocante shops), this is easily one of the best places to see the cherry blossoms in Paris.
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INDULGE IN FRENCH CHOCOLATE
Easter is a perfect excuse to indulge in exquisite French chocolate, and the edible works of art from Paris’ top chocolatiers are almost too beautiful to eat. They are definitely worth visiting for their window displays alone, with ornately decorated eggs and chocolate sculptures. Look for Jeff de Bruges and La Maison du Chocolat shops, or visit Galeries Lafayette department store, you will not be disappointed.
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If you are obsessed with chocolate head to Saint-Germain-des-Prés. This is where you’ll find high-end chocolatiers Jean-Charles Rochoux (Rue d’Assas), Chocolats Richart and Patrick Roger (both Boulevard Saint-Germain). Here you will also discover Maison Pierre Hermé, who creates delicious chocolate creations as well as his signature and sought after macarons (Rue Bonaparte). Treat yourself to something that is almost too pretty to eat (we did say almost!)!
SPEND AN ENTIRE NIGHT AT THE NUIT DES MUSÉES
Spend as many hours as you like during the night at the Nuit des Musées (Night of the Museums). Over the last 18 years, Paris’ museums have stayed open late into the night on the third Saturday in May (14 May in 2022).
Over 150 Parisian museums and galleries participate, including big names like the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Pompidou Centre, Grand Palais and Museum of Modern Art. The museums taking part are free to enter for the night, but there are also special events put on for the evening, like film screenings, concerts, performances, tours and kids’ activities.
This is a really lovely way to spend a few hours, wandering through different museums, trying out a few new ones, or perhaps your all time favourites, and stopping off for something to eat and drink as you go.
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ENJOY THE PARIS CAFÉ CULTURE
As it is Spring, this is a gorgeous time to enjoy your time on the terrace, with a coffee and croissant early in the morning, brunch later in the morning, and a glass of wine in the evening!
For peak springtime scenery, head inside Paris’ parks. Among the lawns and beautiful greenery and blooms you’ll find spots like Café Renard in the Tuileries Gardens or La Terrasse de Madame in the Luxembourg Gardens where you can relax with a drink or bite to eat. If you would like to feel classic French vibes, you can go to Les Deux Magots, Café de Flore, or Cafe Louise.
If you are a serious coffee lover, you will absolutely be able to satisfy your cravings with a modern cafe scene hitting the streets of Paris! Here are a few recommendations: Substance Cafe, Fringe, Telescope Cafe, Boot Cafe, Coutume, KB Coffee Roasters and Lomi Cafe. Chai and Matcha Lattes are also in reach at many of these modern cafes so you will not be disappointed!
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INDULGE IN A GLASS OF CHAMPAGNE
Of course a trip to Paris would not be complete without enjoying a glass of exquisite French wine or two in a fabulous setting! Here are a few recommendations, but you will find amazing wine and champagne in most bars and restaurants and don't be overwhelmed, the staff will always be happy to help you make the best choice!
La Terrasse Hotel Raphael Rooftop Garden (open April to September)
Of course Paris is beautiful to explore at any time of the year! Spring is the time to soak up something special as the city comes alive after the Winter season. Trees blossoming, city parks burst into flower and cafe terraces buzz with energy as Parisians head out to enjoy the soft and warm Spring days.
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