Paris in August (2026 Guide): What to do, Events & What’s On

Last Updated on 10th July 2026 by Charlotte Nadeau

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I’ll start this post by acknowledging that Paris in August often gets a lot of (in my opinion, unfair) criticism. The city is too hot. The city is too crowded. Everything is closed. These are just a few of the complaints that visitors, and even some locals, often make about the French capital during the height of summer. But is August in Paris really as bad as people say? In my experience, not at all.

Please note that the 15th of August is a public holiday. This day is known as ‘L’Assomption de Marie,’ i.e. ‘The Feast of the Assumption of Mary’ in English. During this public holiday, most shops will be closed, and open supermarkets will operate at reduced hours.

In 2026, the summer school holidays will encompass all of August. And so, this is one of the busiest times of the year to travel and often one of the most expensive, as it’s typical for families to travel from one part of France to go on holiday or visit family members.

With this being said, this trend doesn’t seem to affect Paris, as it’s around this time of the year that many Parisians actually leave the city.

Parisians often leave the city in August for les grandes vacances (the long summer holidays), a deeply rooted French tradition. This annual exodus is driven by France’s strong holiday culture, the closure of schools, and many smaller businesses taking their own summer break.

However, if you decide to give Paris a chance during August, then you’ll soon discover that there are still plenty of attractions and things to do that will make your time in the City of Light worth visiting during this time.

In fact, it’s actually one of my favourite times to be in the city on account of just how empty it can feel. Not to mention that it’s easy to visit any museum or other major attraction without too many queues!

Does Paris really shut down during August?

Before we delve into the best of Paris during August, it’s important to talk a little bit about the most common misconception of the French capital city during the high summer.

While it’s true that some of Paris does indeed shut down during August, this is typically smaller family-run businesses and restaurants. Visit the city for yourself, and you’ll soon discover that all of the major attractions and hotels are still open for business and operating as usual!

Paris weather in August

August in Paris is the height of summer, with average daytime temperatures hovering around 25°C and plenty of days feeling warmer, particularly during heatwaves. While the occasional summer shower is always possible, August is one of the sunniest months of the year, with long daylight hours giving visitors plenty of time to explore the French capital. Just be prepared for the heat, especially when sightseeing in the middle of the day.

It’s worth noting that in the past few years, Paris, France, and Europe in general have seen more and more instances of heatwaves. And I have to say, as far as 2026 is going… they seem to be happening every other week! If there’s a heatwave during your Paris visit, then it’s important to be prepared- keep hydrated and wear cool clothing.

I would also consider reserving a hotel that has air-conditioning as this amenity in Europe is not always a given, particularly in older B&Bs and hotels. Another top France tip for visiting during this time of the year would be that many museums, cinemas, and shopping centres also have good air conditioning.

What to wear in Paris in August

There is simply one word for August in the French capital: hot! As such, you’ll want to bring plenty of breathable and lightweight clothing, as well as sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of suncream! I personally love light cotton dresses, floaty trousers, and anything linen.

I personally love these sandals as they’re oh-so-comfy, they’re versatile(and will easily take you from day to night), and pretty stylish. Otherwise, I recommend packing lightweight trainers that are easy to navigate on cobblestones.

The evenings can get a little cooler, so you may well want to also want to pack a pashmina or light cardigan/ jacket. I always bring a shawl (as this can double up as a blanket for travel!) If you want to enter any religious buildings, bear in mind that you might need to cover your shoulders and knees.

What to do in Paris in August

Listen to live music at the Festival Rock en Seine

In 2026, the festival takes place from Wednesday the 26th through to Sunday the 30th of August.

The Festival Rock en Seine is one of the largest festivals in France. Held in the ever-so-pretty André le Nôtre-designed gardens of Domaine National de Saint-Cloud to the West of Paris, this annual festival sees live performances across several days. In 2026, the festival will feature acts like The Cure, Tyler, the Creator, and Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds.

Enjoy the Paris Plages

Paris Plages returns from July 4th to August 30th, 2026

Originally, the Paris Plages(Paris beaches) were held in just one location. During the last few years, these pop-up sandy stretches were found across several different locations in the city, including at Parc Villette and along both banks of the River Seine. If you’re looking to escape the heat and want to eat ice cream in August in Paris, be sure to frequent the Paris Plages!

This year, in 2026, Paris Plages is celebrating its 25th edition with an American theme.

Enjoy a movie outdoors

Thought that grand screenings were a thing of the past? Think again. In Paris, each summertime sees the free screenings of plenty of movies, including cult classics and more modern films, the majority of which are shown in Parc de la Villette.

Movies tend to be screened in their original language, and so, even if you don’t speak French, you may well be able to see an English-language film! The best part of watching a film is that, not only is it free access without reservations onto the grass lawn where the screenings take place, but you’re also free to bring your own picnic, and you can borrow deck chairs to sit back and watch the film with as well. Find more details here.

Escape the city for a day

For those who wish to escape the hustle and bustle of the summer crowds (as well as the summer heat), there is perhaps no better way of doing this than taking a day trip from Paris. After all, unlike in the winter, everything is actually open, including many of the Grand Châteaux of the Loire Valley and the little towns to be found on the fringes of the French capital.

Explore Paris on foot

Thanks to an abundance of sun and long days, there’s perhaps no better time to enjoy the best that the city has to offer on your own two feet. Just be sure to bring along a bottle of water and some confy walking shoes. I also highly recommend bringing along your Here are my best free Paris walking tours.

Enjoy panoramic views of Paris from above

Come summertime, the best way to enjoy the ambience of summer Paris is from above. Thankfully, Paris boasts an abundance of rooftop bars and terraces from which you can enjoy the sunset or simply sip on a cocktail together with friends. Here’s my ultimate guide to the best of Paris rooftops.

Have a French picnic in the park

For those who are looking to enjoy Paris on a budget, soak up some sunshine, and simply enjoy a French-style lunch, be sure to have a picnic in the park!

Head to one of the Parisian markets for picnic supplies (baguette, cheese, wine, and the like), and wander to one of the best picnic spots in Paris to enjoy your déjeuner en plein air.

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!

Hang out at Canal St Martin

Undoubtedly, one of my favourite places in Paris is Canal Saint-Martin, a picturesque tree-lined waterway in northeastern Paris stretching between the Bassin de la Villette and the Seine River. During August in Paris, this is where you’ll find all the locals (who have stayed in the city) flock to, enjoying the relaxed vibes and sipping on wine come the glow of sunset.

Things to know before visiting Paris in August

You should know before visiting Paris that, while many of the larger attractions and monuments will remain open for the months of August, many smaller shops, boutique, and restaurants close up shop during this time. As a result, have a few options ready when it comes to mealtimes in case your first choice is closed!

Otherwise, while the city is fairly quiet in terms of residents, August is one of the most popular months for tourists, meaning many queues for the top Parisian attractions. Luckily, with a little bit of planning, you can avoid most of the queues by booking attractions in advance online with services like GetYourGuide.

For example, book your Louvre tickets here, book your Arc de Triomphe tickets here, and book your Versailles tickets here.

Finally, if you truly want to make the most of your time in the city, then you’ll want to book a Paris hotel close to all of the main attractions and not too far away from the city centre.

Check here for my accommodation guides to hotels in Montmartre, here for the best of Le Marais accommodation, and check here for places to stay in the Latin Quarter.

Wherever you choose to stay, just be sure to book well in advance (check the best prices for all of Paris here) as the top accommodation fills up fast!

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.

Watch my Paris top tips for 2026

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