Admire Spring Flowers in Paris

4. Enjoy the cherry blossoms in Paris

Paris transforms into a captivating canvas adorned with delicate cherry blossoms during spring, a sight cherished by locals and visitors alike. Champ de Mars, the expansive grassy area surrounding the Eiffel Tower, and Square René Viviani, just south of Notre Dame across the river, are adorned with many cherry trees in bloom during springtime.

Wander through picturesque parks and gardens scattered throughout the city, such as Palais-Royal Garden, Jardin des Plantes, Jardin Saint-Simonian and Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, and immerse yourself in the ethereal atmosphere created by the vibrant cherry blossoms. Whether you're capturing stunning photographs, enjoying a leisurely picnic under the blossoming trees, or simply taking in the serene surroundings, witnessing the cherry blossoms in Paris is a magical experience not to be missed during the spring season. 

5. Jardin des Plantes

The Jardin des Plantes, located in the heart of Paris, is a botanical garden which houses over 10,000 species for its stunning array of spring flowers. As the season unfolds, this historic botanical garden bursts into life with vibrant blooms, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of colours and scents.

Stroll along its meandering pathways to discover a kaleidoscope of tulips, daffodils, cherry blossoms, and more, each offering a moment of serenity amidst the bustling city. Whether you're an avid botanist or simply seeking a peaceful escape, the Jardin des Plantes beckons with its timeless beauty and enchanting floral displays, making it a must-visit destination for experiencing the magic of springtime in Paris. 

6. Parc Bagatelle – la Roseraie

Captivating visitors with its enchanting rose gardens and botanical wonders, Parc Bagatelle – la Roseraie blossoms into a vibrant haven during spring. As part of the Jardin Botanique de Paris, this idyllic park offers a serene escape from the city's bustle, inviting leisurely strolls amid blooming flora and lush greenery. In springtime, the park's renowned rose garden bursts into a kaleidoscope of colours and fragrances, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking the quintessential beauty of Paris in spring.

With its picturesque landscapes and serene ambiance, Parc Bagatelle – la Roseraie embodies the timeless allure of springtime in Paris, offering an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and admirers of botanical splendour. 

Picnic in Paris’s Park

Springtime is the perfect time to visit Paris’s parks as they look their finest when all the flowers are blooming. Here are a couple of our top parks for having a picnic or taking a leisurely walk.

7. Luxembourg Gardens

If you find yourself close to the 6th arrondissement, schedule a visit to Jardin du Luxembourg and discover what makes this park from 1612 so charming. Rich in history, the park serves as the backdrop to the Palais du Luxembourg and has something on offer for everyone. This park is very children-friendly, with plenty of playgrounds and areas for them to explore. 

8. Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

For those wanting tranquil relaxation amidst cascading waterfalls and winding pathways, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is the perfect escape, as the park blooms into a scenic oasis with its captivating and beautiful display of colours and fragrances that epitomise the beauty of Paris in spring. With its serene lakes, charming bridges, and hidden grottoes, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont offers a serene retreat, showcasing nature's timeless allure in the heart of the city. 

9. Tuileries Garden

Experience the charm of springtime in Paris at the Tuileries Gardens. Originally crafted by Queen Catherine de Medici and redesigned by André Le Nôtre, these gardens, which separate the Louvre from the Place de la Concorde, offer a serene retreat with sculptures by renowned artists like Rodin and Giacometti. Visitors can relax by the ponds and explore the Musée de l’Orangerie to admire Monet's works.

Browse the Street Markets in Paris

When the sun's out, springtime in Paris offers is great time to explore the bustling stalls of street markets. Paris boasts numerous street markets, such as Rue des Martyrs, the Bastille Market, and the flea markets of Cligancourt. Here are our top Paris street markets in spring:

10. Flower Markets

On Île de la Cité, close to the Conciergerie, you'll find a charming flower market known as Marché aux Fleurs Reine Elizabeth II. It was named in honour of Queen Elizabeth II of England following her state visit in 2014.

Additionally, along Quai de la Corse, Rue Cler is another excellent spot to discover flowers at the street market in Paris in spring time. It's a truly picturesque location - and you'll also find some delightful cafes with inviting terraces here, too. 

11. Food Markets

Every neighbourhood will have its food market and flea market where you can find delicious homemade foods and quirky trinkets. If you have limited time in Paris and you are in the city on a Thursday or Sunday, make time to visit the Bastille food market. Twice a week Boulevard Richard Lenoir comes to life with beautiful food stalls.

Follow your senses and buy deliciously fresh seasonal fruits or vegetables, artisan breads, seafood, cheese or meats to take home. Or stop by and pick up a delicious breakfast or lunch from one of the hot food stalls. Buy freshly-made French crêpes, roasted chicken or galettes to satisfy your appetite.

For a different kind of market, visit Boulevard Richard Lenoir on a Saturday. The food vendors make way for an arts and crafts market where you can find a wide range of handmade trinkets which can add a unique touch to your springtime in Paris experience. 

Go Boating

12. Bois de Vincennes

As the weather warms up, Paris offers a delightful springtime activity, perfect for exploring the city's natural beauty. Visitors can rent rowboats or pedal boats to glide along the tranquil waters of Lac Daumesnil, surrounded by lush greenery and blooming flowers. This serene experience provides a peaceful escape from the bustling city streets, allowing locals and tourists alike to soak in the idyllic ambiance of Paris in spring.

Bois de Vincennes, with its expansive parkland and scenic lakes, presents an ideal setting for a leisurely boating excursion, offering an unforgettable way to enjoy the season's splendour in the heart of the French capital. 

13. Bassin de la Villette

Boating at Bassin de la Villette during springtime is a delightful way to experience the city's charm. Locals and visitors can rent electric boats or pedalos to cruise along the scenic canal waters, admiring the picturesque surroundings.

The basin comes alive with activity during spring, offering a vibrant atmosphere for leisurely boat rides and picnics along the waterfront. Boating here provides a unique perspective of Paris in spring, allowing individuals to immerse themselves in the beauty of the season while enjoying a relaxing and refreshing outdoor experience. 

See the major Paris landmarks

14. Eiffel Tower in Spring

No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Although it is a magnificent sight whatever season you visit, there is something magical about the Eiffel tower in spring. The surrounding trees and shrubs are full of new green leaves and budding flowers; if you time your visit right, the trees might be full of colourful blossoms too.

You can pack your own snacks or even picnic, or you can have a bite at one of the dining options at the Eiffel Tower. For an extravagant meal, book yourself a table at 58 Tour Eiffel, or for a more affordable meal go to the Buffet Tour Eiffel. As one of Paris’ main attractions, the Eiffel Tower can get quite busy. Cut down your waiting time by purchasing your admission tickets online. Capture the most amazing panoramic views over the city of romance, where you can cherish the beauty of Paris in spring by booking your tickets with summit access.

Dine Outdoors 

15. Café Terraces

One of the features of the wide Haussmann streets in central Paris is the space on the pavement for café terrace seating. These are a great place to soak up the atmosphere and to people-watch in the capital of France, here are some ideas:

• Place du Tertre: a bustling square in the heart of Montmartre surrounded by café terraces. It can get quite busy here, especially on sunny days, with tourists flocking to Montmartre and artists showcasing their talents in the square. However, if there’s a spare seat in the cafes, it's a great way to escape the crowds and immerse in the vibrant atmosphere. For a quieter café terrace experience in Montmartre, head downhill to Le Bimbo, a smaller and more tranquil spot. 

• Saint-Germain-des-Prés: you'll find two iconic cafes on Boulevard Saint-Germain: Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore. These cafes often have queues for tables and may charge higher prices. However, they were once the gathering spots for the literary elite of Saint-Germain in the 1960s, including Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone De Beauvoir.  

• Boulevard du Montparnasse: lies several iconic cafes and restaurants that were frequented by artistic and literary greats like Picasso, Guggenheim, and Hemingway. La Closerie des Lilas has a serene enclosed terrace, while La Rotonde serves superb classic French dishes. Le Dome and Le Select offer cosy terrace spaces to soak in the ambiance of this historic boulevard.

16. Rooftop Dining

There are several rooftop restaurants in Paris worth checking out in spring:

• Restaurant Georges: located on the top floor of the Pompidou Centre, this restaurant offers stunning views towards Tour Saint-Jacques. It features both indoor and outdoor seating, with the outdoor section providing shade for those sunny days. 

• At the top floor of the menswear building in the department store Au Printemps, you'll find two restaurants with outdoor seating options: La Reine Mer, specialising in seafood, and Regain, serving meat dishes. The views from here are beautiful, with the blue and gold domes of the Printemps building in the foreground and a sweeping vista down Boulevard Haussmann towards the Paris opera house, Palais Garnier. To secure a spot outside, it's advisable to make a reservation or arrive early.

FAQs about Paris in Spring

1. What is the spring weather like in Paris?

Springtime in Paris is a favoured season for visitors, with temperatures starting around 12°C (54°F) in March. As May approaches, the weather becomes delightfully warm, reaching around 20°C (68°F), ideal for long walks in the city’s enchanting gardens and parks. 

2. What to wear in springtime in Paris?

It's advisable to dress in layers for a spring visit to Paris. Opt for light jumpers or jackets that can be easily removed during warmer spells, paired with comfortable trousers or skirts. Don't forget to bring an umbrella and waterproof footwear to prepare for the occasional rain. 

3. Is spring a good time to visit Paris?

Yes, spring is a nice time to visit Paris with its milder weather and blooming landscapes. Plus, spring brings fewer crowds, shorter queues and a more relaxed atmosphere. 

4. Is Paris crowded in spring?

There are many public holidays in Paris during springtime. The high season starts in April, and Easter is the first major holiday for the French. Paris can get busy during Easter and other holidays like Labour Day and Victory Day in early May. 

5. Is April a good time to go to Paris?

Yes, April is a delightful time to visit Paris as the city emerges from winter, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers adding to its charm. Additionally, many cultural events and festivals take place during this month, offering visitors a rich and vibrant experience of the city.