Rain is common though it falls less in winter than in any other season. Winter has the occasional snowfall, but it usually melts fast.
Spring & Fall
Paris is at its best during the temperate spring months (March to May), with autumn coming in a close second. Parisians spend their time outside at the sidewalk cafes, down by the river and in the city’s many parks.
May 1st (May Day) is an important public holiday across France and most attractions, such as museums, will close.
In the beginning of October you can experience the annual Nuit Blanche, an all night festival dedicated to arts that takes place all around the city.
Summer
Summer is peak tourist season and the time when major tourist destinations see their largest crowds. Locals joke that all the Parisians leave for the summer in time for all the foreigners to come in.
Around the middle of summer you can discover the Paris Plages events with activities and performances taking place along the Seine.
August is usually hot and sticky, and it's also when many Parisians take their yearly vacations, so businesses are likely to be closed. Opera and orchestra venues are mostly on break during the summer months.
Few budget hotels have air-conditioned rooms, so keep that in mind for travel during warmer months.
Winter
Winter in Paris is generally cold and wet. Freezing temperatures and ice are rare, but the moist cold air can be bone chilling. A coat and boots tend to do the trick.
Outdoor attractions like the fountains at Versailles are shut down for the winter months and public parks have significantly shortened hours due to lack of daylight.
On the downside, since winter is not a popular time for visitors, lines are a lot shorter and it’s harder to get up close to monuments and minor attractions.
