May in Paris hits that sweet spot between spring and summer. The days are longer, the parks are greener, and the city just feels like it’s collectively exhaled after winter. If you’re coming to Paris in May, you’re in luck—it’s genuinely one of the best months to visit.
Let’s get into what to expect in May and a few of my favorite things to do.
What’s it Like in May?
So to answer the question – it’s great. May is easily my favorite month in Paris (and I’ve experienced it for 8 years).
The transition from Winter to Spring is incredible. The sun sets late in the evening, the city awakes from its slumber and the Seine is awash with green.
May is a popular month for visitors. You’ll certainly be competing with plenty of other tourists for the tables at the best bistros and there will be queues for museums and monuments.
I’d advise to book tables at restaurants weeks in advance and make sure reserve tickets for sights in advance (like here for the Palace of Versailles).
Overall it’s a great time to be outside and to explore the city with the longer, warmer days. Yes it’s busy but not as much as in the Summer.
What the Weather’s Like in Paris in May
May usually starts off mild and ends with almost summer vibes. Expect highs around 18–22°C (64–72°F), but some days can push into the mid-20s. Mornings and evenings are cooler—bring a light jacket, especially if you’re planning to sit outside at night. There’s a fair chance of rain, but it’s usually light showers rather than torrential downpours. A small travel umbrella or trench coat should cover you.
Daylight stretches well into the evening (sunset’s around 9:30pm by the end of the month), which means longer dinners, late drinks by the river, and golden hour strolls.
What to Pack for Paris in May
Layers. Always layers. Think t-shirts, light sweaters, jeans, and a jacket. Bring shoes you can walk in because you’ll likely be out all day. Sunglasses are a must. And again, don’t forget that umbrella or a light waterproof jacket—May can be sneaky with showers.
If you’re going somewhere nice for dinner, Parisians aren’t overly dressy, but it’s always a good idea to look put-together. A casual dress or nice shirt will do the trick.
May Holidays & Closures
There are quite a few public holidays in May, which can affect shop and museum hours:
- May 1st – Labour Day: Almost everything is closed.
- May 8th – VE Day: Commemorates the end of WWII. Many places stay open, but some museums may close or have reduced hours.
- Ascension Day & Pentecost (dates vary): Both are public holidays. Expect some closures but most things touristy will be fine.
It’s worth checking museum websites if you’re planning to visit on or around these dates.
Best Things to Do in Paris in May
Grab a Drink Next to the Seine
This is peak season for riverside drinks. As soon as the sun’s out, the Seine becomes one long open-air bar. Grab a beer or bottle of wine, find a spot by the water, and settle in. The stretch between the Quai de l’Hôtel de Ville and the Quai Henri IV is my favorite spot.
For something a little more structured (and with outdoor seating), check out these best bars on the Seine in Paris. From floating bars to tucked-away wine spots, my list covers the best spots next to the Seine.
Visit One of Paris’s Parks
Paris in May is green, leafy and blooming. The city’s parks are in full swing—perfect for a morning coffee, picnic, or just people watching.
A few of my favorites:
- Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: Less touristy and has real topography. Great views, especially at sunset.
- Jardin du Luxembourg: Classic and central. Grab a green chair and settle in.
- Parc Monceau: Chic and calm, popular with locals.
Jardin des Plantes: Botanical gardens in full bloom—excellent for photos.
For more, here’s my guide to the best parks in Paris.
Go for Apéro Outdoors
One of the best things about May? Aperitif (apéro in French) season is back. Around 6pm, cafés and terraces fill up with locals sipping on spritzes, wines, or simply a café noisette. It’s a vibe—and one that’s not hard to join in on.
Some reliable aperitif streets:
- Rue Cler in the 7eme
- Rue Montorgueil in the 2eme
- Rue des Abbesses in Montmartre
- Canal Saint-Martin for a more laid-back crowd
Explore a Neighbourhood on Foot
With the weather on your side, now’s the time to explore a Parisian neighbourhood in depth. A few suggestions:
- Le Marais: Still charming, still full of great shops, galleries, and falafel.
- Montmartre: Best visited early to avoid the crowds. Stop by Rue Lepic and climb the stairs up to Sacré-Cœur.
- Latin Quarter: Good mix of touristy and authentic. Wander the narrow streets and dip into a bookshop or café.
- Belleville: Grittier and more local. Great street art and some cool bars and bakeries.
Museum Tip for Rainy Days
If the weather turns, May is still a good time to explore Paris’s many museums without the mega summer crowds. Try:
- Musée de l’Orangerie for Monet’s water lilies
- Musée Carnavalet (about Paris itself)
- Bourse de Commerce for modern art
- The Louvre and hit one wing only (trust me).
Book tickets ahead—especially on weekends or public holidays.
Cultural Events on in May in Paris
There are some great things on in May this year:
- Louvre Couture at the Louvre (until July 21, 2025) – Fashion meets art with over 100 pieces from Dior, Chanel and more.
- Worth: Inventing Haute Couture at Petit Palais (until September 7, 2025) – A deep dive into the history of couture.
- Black Paris at Centre Pompidou (until June 30, 2025) – Celebrates Black artists in Paris since the 1950s.
- Museum Night (May 17, 2025) – Late-night, free museum entries across the city.
- Saint-Germain-des-Prés Jazz Festival (May 12–19, 2025) – Jazz concerts in one of Paris’s most iconic areas.
