Weather in Paris in May


 

May is the perfect month to visit Paris.

During the spring time the flowers are colourful and all parks and attractions will be looking their absolute best. The weather is warm during the day, but can still be cool at night. As May is only on the brink of the European summer, there are less tourists than during other months; queues will be shorter, and people will be friendlier. In summer, many locals spend their holidays elsewhere, and so your chance of seeing the true essence of Parisian life is in May, when Parisians are enjoying their city in full bloom.

The average temperatures range between 11 degrees Celsius (52 degrees Fahrenheit),  usually in the early mornings and late evenings, and 20°C (68°F) during the day.

This is the perfect temperature to enjoy exploring the city without getting too hot and bothered. You can enjoy a hot chocolate at Café des Flores just as much as you could a fruit juice in Jardin de Luxembourg. At midday, you can even sun-bake if you find the right spots.

Image sourced from Unsplash

The average rainfall is 9 – 12 days in the month, recorded at about 65mm.

Usually, every 3rd day there will be a rain shower in May, and the rain, although consistent, is not constant. For this it is important to pack an umbrella.

Image sourced from Unsplash

What to pack

In Paris in May you should bring a nice warm jacket, but not a winter coat. The jacket should be breathable and light, as in the wet season there is nothing worse than denim that takes 5 days to dry.

It is important to layer your clothes this month, as the temperature during the day can change with little warning. A light sleeved shirt is a good place to start, particularly if it has buttons you can undo in case it gets too hot in the day. A cardigan on top and / or a scarf should be enough.

Wear shoes with a slight platform, so that you won’t get them too wet in the occasional puddle.

For more general information on what to pack for your trip, visit our article here.

Image sourced from Unsplash

For women

This year the mid-length skirt is in fashion, which is very elegant with a nice pair of boots.

Good news is that May allows for most outfits in your wardrobe – heels and dress at night, boots and jeans during the day.

Image sourced from Unsplash

For men

 Blend in with the Parisians with some slim cut chinos and a button shirt.

Image sourced from Unsplash

Avoid

Shorts, flip flops, UGG boots, tank tops.

In May, there are also 3 public holidays that you should be aware of before planning your trip.

Image sourced from Unsplash

May, 1st: Work Holiday – this is a Friday, and most shops, museums and restaurants are closed (except the Eiffel Tower & Sacre Coeur)

May, 8th: Victoire des Alliés, Victory of the Allies – this is a Friday, and most museums and shops will stay open.

May, 21st: Ascension Day – this is a Thursday, and most museums and shops will stay open.

In May, spend as much time as you can outside, roaming the old Jewish district, hopping from boutique to boutique in the Latin Quarter, and soaking up the sun rays and fresh spring air in all the parks and cafés you stop at along the way.

Planning a trip to Paris ? Get ready !


These are Amazon’s best-selling travel products that you may need for coming to Paris.

Bookstore

  1. The best travel book : Rick Steves – Paris 2023 – Learn more here
  2. Fodor’s Paris 2024 – Learn more here

Travel Gear

  1. Venture Pal Lightweight Backpack – Learn more here
  2. Samsonite Winfield 2 28″ Luggage – Learn more here
  3. Swig Savvy’s Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle – Learn more here

Check Amazon’s best-seller list for the most popular travel accessories. We sometimes read this list just to find out what new travel products people are buying.