Paris in May
Here are five amazing things you can do in Paris in May
1.) Marais Walk – Take Advantage of the Sales!
May is not usually a month of sales in Paris. But in the Maris district, it is sales all the time! Famous for its little vintage trendy shops, Marais is also full of hidden secrets and history! Explore the Trendy Marais with a local guide in a Walking Tour!
2.) A Boat Cruise for Sure, But One Question Remains: With or Without Champagne?
Sunny weather in May is perfect for spending a wonderful afternoon or evening on a boat cruise. You will see all along the Seine Parisian landmarks such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Orsay Museum and the Eiffel Tower. To enjoy even more this Seine cruise, why not have a Champagne tasting? Some cruise companies offer to spend a nice evening on the river around “L’île de la cite” with great French Champagne flowing!
3.) French Cooking Class
Nobody should come to Paris and leave without tasting the famous and delicious French cuisine. Do you want to become a real French cook or discover the secrets of Parisians cuisine? Then French Cooking Classes with a local chef and host are just the thing for you! Have a nice moment sharing food, knowledge and fun!
4.) Parks and Gardens
Spring is the season to leave coats and umbrellas in the hotel and have a nice stroll or picnic in one of the numerous gardens of Paris. From the Luxembourg Garden to the Tuileries Garden, you have many choices around Paris! You can also lie on a green public chair to enjoy the sun of May!
5.) Flea Market
Parisian Flea Markets are definitely some of the best places to shop in Paris. The warehouses and streets are full of vintage accessories, clothing and unique antiques. Saint-Ouen, which is the most famous flea market in the world, makes it easy to get lost in this city-within-the-city! That is why we strongly recommend you to join the Paris Flea Market Walking Tour with a local guide to discover the treasures and secrets of the market and of course to give you tips to get the best bargains!
Sightseeing in Paris in May
Enjoy a very peaceful boat ride or a romantic walk along the Canal St Martin in May. Connecting the Canal de l’Ourcq to the River Seine, Canal St Martin has a very friendly atmosphere, and as soon as it gets sunny during the day, will be crowded by very stylish and friendly Parisians. You will be happy to know that it is not as crowded with tourists in May, so you can enjoy some privacy away from the busy city, while still in it! There are many trendy bars and food courts around the canal, so you can buy drinks and some French Food or fix yourself a picnic to eat on the boat with friends or family. You can take a metro all the way to Canal St Martin, and be ready to spend at least 2 hours on the boat while enjoying the amazing views!
Events in Paris in May
May 1 – Labor Day
Labor Day on the 1st of May is a historical tradition in France! It is a day to pay tribute to men and women workers. It is mostly at spring time in other countries, but in autumn (September) in the United States. What about where you live?
Roland Garros
The most famous French tennis competition! The French Open starts in May in the 16th district of Paris! Famous tennis players competing on clay courts is definitely something to see! Do not forget to buy tickets in advance as they are sold out quite quickly!
La Nuit des musées
The Museum Night is a cultural and original free event to attend! The Parisian museums come to life one night a year and it is on this night only! Go and visit them, the atmosphere is unique! Take this opportunity to have a romantic stroll around Paris at night!
In May, Paris is sunny, calm and pleasant. As the touristic season has not officially started yet, I appreciate having an ice cream at the Berthillon shop, the best you can find in Paris. In May, I can have a coffee with my friends at a Café terrace without getting cold. So nice! But there so many other things to do in Paris in May!”
ClaireWeather in Paris in May
Average temperature:
Min 10° C / 50° F
Max 18° C /64.4° F
Average no. of rainy days: 12
- 13 million visitors a year 99%
- Incredibly detailed 80%
- Contains hidden mysteries 70%
Free Events in Paris in May:
- Paris Fair:
La Foire de Paris, the Paris Fair, is an event not to be missed! Exceptional exhibitions about art, cooking, technology, wine and so on, take place here. Surprising and original, it is definitely worth a visit!- The festival of Nature:
It is the green event of the year in Paris and a perfect family outing! Kids can learn about plants, animals, green issues and participate in free animations and games. For the sports fans, green treks around Paris are also organized!- A running day in May:
The famous 10k – is a race which takes place at the end of May in the 19th district. Parisians are keen on jogging! They jog in public gardens like the Palais Royal Gardens for example. Participate in the race and mingle with the locals!
