In this blog, I will go through the most amazing things to do in Paris in summer!
Paris in summer is nothing short of magical. The City of Light comes alive with a vibrant array of activities and events that celebrate its rich culture, stunning architecture, and beautiful landscapes. Let’s explore the most amazing things to do in Paris this summer.
From lively festivals and serene gardens to unique urban beaches and open-air cinemas, Paris offers countless ways to enjoy the warm summer months.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide to the top 12 things to do in Paris during the summer will help you make the most of your time in this enchanting city. Embrace the summer spirit, immerse yourself in Parisian life, and create unforgettable memories with these must-do activities.
1. Spend the Day at the Fête des Tuileries
During the summer in Paris, the elegant Tuileries Garden near the Louvre Museum transforms into a giant outdoor carnival known as the Fête des Tuileries. This enchanting event runs every July and August, offering a delightful array of rides, games, and delicious treats like sweet crêpes and cotton candy. The carnival atmosphere is vibrant, with the sounds of laughter and excitement filling the air.
This year, the Jardin des Tuileries will be transformed into the “Paris Summer Fair” from June 22 to August 25, 2024. Due to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games taking over the Place de la Concorde and the Jardin des Tuileries, the funfair is relocating to the Bois de Boulogne. The Fête des Tuileries is the second biggest Parisian funfair after the Foire du Trône, making it the perfect place for the whole family to have fun in the heart of Paris.
Don’t miss the giant Ferris Wheel, which offers breathtaking views of Paris from above, or the swings that take you for a ride high above the Parisian rooftops. Other popular attractions include bumper cars, carousels, and various thrilling rides that cater to all ages. Entry to the carnival is free, and you pay by individual attraction, making it accessible for everyone.
With 60 attractions, six restaurants, and a guinguette to boot, you’ll love going there with friends or family. To find the party, head for the Pelouse de la Muette in the 16th arrondissement. You can get there by metro 9, Muette station, or by RER C, Boulainvilliers station.
In addition to the rides, the Fête des Tuileries also features a variety of game stalls where you can test your skills and win prizes. There are also numerous food stands offering a range of French delicacies, from traditional pastries to savory snacks. The Tuileries Garden itself provides a picturesque backdrop, with its beautifully manicured lawns and historic statues adding to the festive atmosphere.
2. Go to the Beach
Every summer from July to August, long stretches of the Seine transform into sandy beaches lined with chairs and umbrellas for the Paris Plages (Paris Beaches), an event organized by the city. This urban beach experience allows Parisians and visitors alike to enjoy a seaside atmosphere without leaving the city.
There’s no better way to spend a day than lounging in the sun along the beach or taking advantage of one of the free exercise or dance classes offered. The beaches are equipped with all the amenities you might need, including showers, restrooms, and food vendors.
For those looking to cool off, there are even private cabanas for changing into your swimsuit and three enormous swimming pools in one of the canals. These pools are safe and well-maintained, providing a perfect spot for a refreshing swim. Paris Plages also hosts various cultural and recreational activities, including concerts, sports tournaments, and art workshops, making it a fun and engaging destination for all ages.
3. Relax in the Luxembourg Gardens
The Luxembourg Gardens, or Jardin du Luxembourg, is a beautiful spot to relax on a sunny day. Located in the 6th arrondissement, these gardens offer a serene escape from the bustling city. The gardens are meticulously landscaped, with flowerbeds, fountains, and sculptures adding to their charm.
Take a stroll through the gardens and enjoy the vibrant flora, or find a shady spot under a tree to unwind with a good book. The central pond is a popular attraction, where you can rent a small wooden boat and go for a paddle. Watching the boats glide across the water is a favorite pastime for both children and adults.
If you’re in the mood for a picnic, the Luxembourg Gardens are an ideal location. Pack a lunch and find a comfortable spot on the grass, or use one of the many benches scattered throughout the park. The gardens also house several cafés where you can grab a coffee or a light meal. Additionally, the gardens often host free concerts and performances, providing a delightful soundtrack to your relaxing day.
4. Watch a Movie en Plein Air
There’s nothing that screams summertime louder than an open-air cinema! Every summer in Paris, the Cinema en Plein Air festival comes to the Parc de la Villette. This beloved event offers the unique experience of watching movies under the stars in one of Paris’s largest parks.
However, en Plein is on pause this year due the Olympics.
No need to panic, there is another outdoor cinema you can visit.
For a week at the end of summer, the Silhouette association puts on a free festival dedicated to short films.
Every year since 2002, for a week at the end of summer, the Silhouette association puts on a free festival dedicated to short films, in the 19th district in Paris. The concept is always the same, to challenge, surprise, tease, frighten or otherwise provoke a response form the audience, with films that are out-of-the-ordinary. Either in their theme, their image and sound treatment, the world they explore or the ideas they put forward.
Ehe festival begins with a concert night which presents emerging musical talents, taking festival goers off the beaten track with styles from all over the world. In all, over a hundred short films are presented before 20,000 spectators, making this one of the largest short film festivals in France. The prizes awarded allow the filmmakers to enjoy a greater visibility.
5. Take a Cruise Down the Seine River
A Seine River cruise is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. These cruises offer a leisurely journey along Paris’s most famous waterway, providing stunning views of major landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum.
Several companies offer Seine River cruises, ranging from basic sightseeing tours to luxurious dinner cruises. On a standard sightseeing cruise, you can enjoy an informative commentary about the city’s history and landmarks as you glide past them. If you opt for a dinner cruise, you’ll be treated to a gourmet meal accompanied by live music, creating an unforgettable dining experience.
For a more intimate experience, consider a private boat rental. Whether you choose a daytime cruise to soak up the sun or an evening cruise to see the city illuminated, floating down the Seine is a tranquil and scenic way to enjoy Paris.
6. Picnic at the Jardin du Luxembourg
The Jardin du Luxembourg, a beautiful public garden located in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, is a fantastic place for a picnic. Spanning 23 hectares, the gardens are filled with lush greenery, colorful flowerbeds, and elegant statues.
Find a comfortable spot on the expansive lawns or near one of the many fountains to spread out your picnic blanket. The gardens are well-maintained and offer plenty of shade from the summer sun, making them an ideal location for a leisurely outdoor meal.
You can bring your own picnic basket filled with French delights such as baguettes, cheeses, charcuterie, and pastries, or purchase snacks and drinks from one of the nearby cafés and food vendors. While you enjoy your meal, take in the scenic views of the palace and its surrounding gardens. The Luxembourg Gardens are also home to various cultural events, including art exhibitions and live performances, which can add an extra layer of enjoyment to your picnic experience.
7. See the Eiffel Tower Sparkle
No trip to Paris would be complete without seeing the Eiffel Tower. During the summer months, the tower sparkles for five minutes every hour from dusk until 1 am. This dazzling light show, created by 20,000 light bulbs, transforms the iconic landmark into a shimmering spectacle.
There are several excellent vantage points to watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle. The Trocadéro Gardens offer a direct view of the tower, while the Champ de Mars park provides a more relaxed setting for an evening picnic. Another popular spot is the Seine River banks, where you can enjoy the light show with the tower’s reflection in the water.
For a truly memorable experience, consider booking a dinner at one of the many rooftop restaurants or bars that offer panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower. Watching the lights twinkle while enjoying a delicious meal and a glass of wine is a quintessential Parisian experience.
8. Take a Day Trip to Giverny
Giverny is a small town located about an hour from Paris, famous for being the home of Impressionist painter Claude Monet. Visiting Giverny is like stepping into one of Monet’s paintings, as the town’s gardens inspired many of his most famous works.
Monet’s House and Gardens are the main attractions in Giverny. The house has been preserved as a museum, showcasing Monet’s personal belongings and a collection of his artwork. The gardens, however, are the real highlight. Divided into two main sections, the Clos Normand flower garden and the Japanese-inspired Water Garden, they are a riot of color and fragrance, with blooming flowers, water lilies, and charming bridges.
A visit to Giverny offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Paris. After touring Monet’s gardens, you can explore the quaint village, visit local art galleries, and enjoy a meal at one of the charming cafés or restaurants. The scenic countryside surrounding Giverny is also perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.
9. Enjoy a Rooftop Dinner
Paris has a number of rooftop restaurants with stunning views of the city. Enjoying a delicious meal while soaking up the atmosphere from above is a fantastic way to spend a summer evening in Paris. These rooftop venues offer panoramic views of iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the sprawling Parisian skyline.
Some popular rooftop dining spots include Le Perchoir, which boasts a trendy ambiance and creative cocktails, and Terrass” Hotel, where you can enjoy gourmet cuisine with breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower. For a more luxurious experience, the rooftop at the Peninsula Paris offers exquisite dishes and a sophisticated setting.
Rooftop dinners in Paris are not just about the food, it is one of the best thins to do in Paris. —they’re about the whole experience. The combination of delectable cuisine, stunning views, and the warm summer breeze creates an unforgettable dining experience. Be sure to make reservations in advance, as these popular spots can fill up quickly.
10. Take a Bike Tour
A bike tour is one of the best things to do in Paris and a great way to see the city and get some exercise. Paris is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and paths that make it easy to navigate on two wheels. Several companies offer guided bike tours that take you through the city’s most famous neighborhoods and landmarks.
On a typical bike tour, you’ll cycle past iconic sights such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Notre Dame Cathedral, while a knowledgeable guide shares fascinating stories and historical insights. Some tours focus on specific themes, such as the history of the French Revolution, the city’s hidden gems, or culinary delights.
If you prefer to explore at your own pace, you can rent a bike and create your own itinerary. The Vélib’ bike-sharing system is convenient and affordable, with stations located throughout the city. Whether you join a guided tour or venture out on your own, biking is a fun and active way to experience Paris.
11. Celebrate Bastille Day
July 14th is Bastille Day, the French national day, and one of the biggest celebrations in the country. There is no better place to spend the day than in Paris, where festivities occur all day long. The day commemorates the Storming of the Bastille in 1789, a key event in the French Revolution.
The celebrations begin in the morning with a grand military parade on the Champs-Elysées, featuring troops, military vehicles, and an impressive flyover by the French Air Force. Thousands of spectators line the avenue to watch the parade, creating a festive and patriotic atmosphere.
Throughout the day, there are various events and activities, including concerts, dance parties, and public gatherings. Many museums and monuments offer free or discounted entry, allowing you to explore Paris’s rich cultural heritage. The highlight of the day is the spectacular fireworks display at the Eiffel Tower, which illuminates the night sky in a dazzling show of lights and colors.
To get the best view of the fireworks, head to the Champ de Mars park or the Trocadéro Gardens. Arrive early to secure a good spot, and bring a picnic to enjoy while you wait for the show to begin. Celebrating Bastille Day in Paris is an unforgettable experience that showcases the city’s vibrant spirit and historical significance.
12. Go Swimming at the Piscine Pontoise
The Piscine Pontoise is a floating pool on the Seine River, offering a unique and refreshing way to cool off on a hot summer day. Located in the Latin Quarter, this historic pool has been a favorite spot for Parisians and visitors alike since it opened in the 1930s.
The pool is housed in a beautiful Art Deco building, complete with a glass roof that allows natural light to flood the space. The main pool is perfect for swimming laps or simply relaxing in the water. There are also facilities for saunas and fitness classes, making it a versatile destination for health and wellness.
Swimming in the Piscine Pontoise offers a unique perspective of the city, as you can enjoy views of the Seine River and the surrounding architecture while you swim. The pool is well-maintained and provides a serene and comfortable environment. Whether you’re looking to escape the summer heat or get some exercise, a visit to the Piscine Pontoise is a refreshing and enjoyable experience.
Conclusion
Summer in Paris is a magical time, filled with a wide array of activities and events that showcase the city’s beauty, culture, and charm. From the excitement of the Fête des Tuileries to the tranquil gardens and scenic river cruises, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these 12 activities will help you make the most of your summer in the City of Light. So pack your bags, embrace the summer spirit, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in Paris.
