Paris in April: Your go-to-guide on Where to Go & What to See
Last Updated on 16th April 2026 by Charlotte Nadeau
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April in Paris marks the beginning of spring’s full bloom in the City of Light. Bringing promises of pink, fluffy cherry blossoms, café terraces buzz back to life, and warmer temperatures invite long strolls along the Seine. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the French capital before the summer crowds arrive. With longer daylight hours, seasonal events and a jump back to life after the long winter months, April is one of the best months to experience Paris like a local!
In 2026, the 6th of April is a public holiday. This is Easter Monday. During this public holiday, most shops will be closed, and supermarkets which do still remain open will operate at reduced hours.
The 1st April is April Fool’s Day in France and the day is known is French as Poisson d’Avril. It is not uncommon for French businesses and companies to play hoaxes on this day, only to publish that they were pranks the next day.
Psst. If you’re planning to visit Paris, then we’ve created a gorgeous 100+ page eBook full of beautiful photos and insider tips by a local. Included you’ll find hidden gems, arrondissement guides, walking tours, suggested itineraries, and more. Find more information here.
Contents
Paris weather in April
Perhaps most fitting for describing the weather in April is the French idiom “Une hirondelle ne fait pas le printemps.” Literally translated as ‘one swallow does not a summer make,’ this phrase indicates the volatile and unpredictable weather of the French capital when it comes to mid-spring.
Though days are longer and the temperature may be warmer, rain showers are frequent and so don’t be caught out by one by not coming prepared. The average temperature in Paris in April is around 11 degrees Celsius, with highs in the mid-teens and lows around 7.
In 2026, temperatures are expected to have a huge range of anywhere between (9°C to 29°C)… Yes, it’s particularly warm this year, on some days. But, you should still bring a coat with you as the April showers are still very common, and it can go from really warm to chilly again very suddenly.
What to wear and pack for Paris in April
A warm jacket
You’ll want to leave the summer dresses and shorts at home for now. While a light jacket is typically fine during the daytime, the temperature can plunge fairly significantly post-sunset and so you’ll want to bring along a warm-ish jacket to combat the cold.
Comfortable shoes
Whether it’s discovering a new district or wandering around a museum, when it comes to visiting the French capital, you’ll likely be on your feet all day.
I typically travel with a pair of tennis shoes like these ones and a pair of chunky heel boots. This way, both pair of shoes are comfy, while I still have something a little nicer to wear in the evenings!
An umbrella
If there’s one thing I always forget to pack during my travels around Europe, it’s an umbrella. However, due to frequent rainfalls in April (they don’t call them ‘April showers’ across the Channel in England for nothing!), you’ll want to have a sturdy one handy.
A scarf
If there’s one travel item I literally never travel without, it’s a scarf (even in the summer!) Though in April you’ll likely want to keep it close so you can wrap up warm in the evenings, a scarf can also double as a blanket/ pillow on the plane and a shawl for keeping warm with an evening dress.
What to do in Paris in April
La Foire du Trone
Fun for all the family, this annual festival is held each year in April. The fairground is the oldest ongoing traditional funfair of its kind in France and dates all the way back to 957 when it was held in Lothaire.
Today, the fair comprises of 350 stalls, rides, and attractions held on the Pelouse de Reuilly. In 2024, the funfair will take place from the 22nd March to the 21st of April.
Go in search of cherry blossoms
Though the magnolia in the city are starting to go over, there’s no denying that some of the fluffiest cherry blossom trees are in full bloom during the first two weeks of April.
Some of the best places to enjoy the blossom in Paris are on the trees next to Notre Dame, as well as those beside Shakespeare and Co. To gauge exactly when to visit, keep an eye out on social media.
Be on the lookout for wisteria
Though more of a May activity than something to do in April, weather dependant the wisteria in Paris may well be out before the end of April. Some of the best places in Paris to spy the purple trailing blooms are on Rue de l’Abreuvoir in Montmartre and on the façade of Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole on Ile de la Cite.
Take a day trip to Château de Sceaux
The best time to take a day trip to the fairytale-like Château de Sceaux is easily in April. After all, it’s here in the French castle’s grounds where you’ll discover an orchard planted with cherry blossom trees that tend to flower in mid-April.
Though not as much of a ‘hidden gem’ as just a few years ago, be sure to head there earlier in the day and mid-week so as to enjoy the blooms without the crowds!
There are actually two blossom orchards next to one another; one with pink blossoms and the other with white blossoms. Both are beautiful for enjoying a picnic in.
Enjoy the green spaces the city has to offer
With its longer days and the number on the thermometer ever-creeping upwards, there’s no better time to enjoy all of the little pockets of calm and parks throughout the city.
Some of my all-time favourite parks in Paris include the Parc des Buttes Chaumont (complete with 19th-century follies and even a grotto) and Square René-Viviani (a park constructed on a former cemetery).
The Paris Marathon
One of the largest and best known runs in Paris, which takes place in April: the Paris Marathon. The marathon covers 42.195 km, starting on the Champs-Élysées near the Arc de Triomphe and finishing on Avenue Foch. In 2026, the Paris Marathon will take place on Sunday, April 12th.
Easter in Paris
In 2026, Easter Sunday will fall on the 5th of April. The holiday is marked in Paris by a series of events, including Easter Egg hunts in the Palais Royal and at various other locations throughout the city. Disneyland Paris also has a whole host of Easter-themed events. Check here for Disneyland Paris prices.
Enjoy a Seine River Dinner Cruise
Though, of course, you can enjoy a romantic dinner cruise all year long, there’s perhaps no better time to enjoy the stunning city than when the days are long and the temperatures are warm.
There are several options available, including this Early Evening Dinner Cruise on the River Seine. Finally, for those with time constraints who wish to simply see the sights of Paris on the water, this 1-Hour Illuminations River Cruise is short and sweet!
Tours in Paris you’ll love this month
Free and self-guided Latin Quarter walking tour
If you’re looking for a glimpse into Paris’ Roman history, as well as wander through the city’s medieval past, then you may well want to head to the 5th arrondissement of the city. For more details, check out this free and self-guided Latin Quarter walking tour.
Macaron making in Galeries Lafayette
For those with a sweet tooth, learning to make macarons at one of Paris’ most famous department stores is a bucket list item. These cooking classes typically last for 1.5 hours and ensure that you come away with your own tasty box of French cookies! Check here for prices and to book the class now.
Le Marais: Pastry and Chocolate Food Tour
If you’re after a guided foodie experience together with a tour guide, then this foodie tour includes hidden gems such as bakeries and other food tasing experiences. The tour typically lasts for three hours and is during the afternoon. Check here for prices and to book the class now.
2 Hour Seine Dinner Cruise
Incredibly well-reviewed, for the ultimate romantic experience in the City of Love, be sure to book a seat on this two-hour dinner cruise. Included is a three-course meal and enjoying iconic Parisian landmarks (the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame) from the water. Check here for prices and to book the tour now.
Where to stay in Paris
Mandarin Oriental: Located along rue Saint-Honoré, which is famous for its many shops, this five-star luxurious accommodation is home to highlights like a marble lobby and beautiful courtyard. Check availability and rates here!
Shangri-La: If you’re looking to seriously splurge on a romantic stay during your time in the city, then this hotel faces the Eiffel Tower, is home to a 2 Michelin star restaurant and spa facilities. Check availability and rates here!
Luxury experience: The Hoxton: For those who are looking for the ultimate luxury experience when staying in Paris, The Hoxton has it all. Charm and several beautiful communal guest spaces including a stunning bar and restaurant, other highlights of the hotel include breakfast options, WiFi, and room service. Check prices and availability here.
Mid-range boutique stay: Hôtel Fabric: As you might gather from its name, Hôtel Fabric is set against the backdrop of a former textile factory and simply oozes charm. Beautiful and with friendly staff, this four-star hotel is welcoming and is located just a fifteen-minute walk away from Le Marais area of the city. Check prices and availability here.
Mid-range: Hotel Petit Paris: Not far from the Luxembourg Gardens and close to the Latin Quarter of the city, this boutique hotel is in the perfect position for exploring Paris on foot. From here, it’s easy to explore top Parisian attractions such as the Paris Pantheon, as well as the Saint Germain des Prés area of the city. Check availability and rates here!
Affordable chic: Hôtel Chopin: Located within one of the covered passages of Paris, in the 9th arrondissement, and close to all the action (the nearby Grands Boulevards are full of bars and restaurants), Hôtel Chopin is a small hotel offering affordable rooms. Amenities include a restaurant and spa on site. Check prices and availability here.
Budget hostel: Generator Hostel: Those in search of an affordable option, Paris has a number of hostels which are fairly conveniently located. This hostel is situated close to the lively area of Canal Saint Martin and offers mixed-sex and female-only dorms. Check prices and availability here.
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