Best Things To Do In Paris In Spring

Read our guide on the best things to do in Paris in spring

Whether it is your very first visit to the French capital or you have been able to explore Paris before, here at Fraser Suites Harmonie we have compiled the very best attractions, sights and more that Paris has on offer in the spring. Springtime is a truly wonderful time to visit, just as temperatures are slowly rising again and gardens are coming into full bloom. Kick off this season of new beginnings in the city of love and romance.

What to do in Paris in spring

• Al Fresco Lunches and Dining
• Visit the Marché Bastille Food Market
• Eiffel Tower
• The Night of Museums
• Visit the Parks and Gardens

Al Fresco Lunches and Dining

While open-air terraces and dining are generally not an option at high-end and luxury restaurants, many mid-range establishments offer al fresco dining when the weather is good enough. Soak up the sun and culture at one of many al fresco options in Paris. For a truly enchanting experience, book a table at Les Jardins de Bagatelle where you can enjoy a quiet moment away from the usual vibrant atmosphere of the city. Located in converted stables, the restaurant boasts of a beautiful open-air terrace and huge veranda. For a unique vibe, visit Maison Plisson which combines a bakery, butcher shop, cheese shop, general store and wine cellar with a café, takeout and restaurant with a great terrace. Maison Plisson is renowned for its dedication to and passion for quality food. Everything on your plate will have been sourced by the owners, some products and produce cannot even be found anywhere else in the capital. Obviously, there are also many different cafes that will not require a reservation where you can drop in, order a cappuccino and a croissant and enjoy a little break while you drink in the city in all its glory.

Visit the Marché Bastille Food Market

Paris is rich in a myriad of different markets and stall. 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 buy yourself a delicious breakfast or lunch from one of the hot food stalls. Buy freshly-made French crepes, 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.

Eiffel Tower

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 more a more affordable meal go to Buffet Tour Eiffel. As one of Paris’ main attraction, the Eiffel Tower can get quite busy. Cut down your waiting time by purchasing your admission tickets online. For the most amazing panoramic views over the city of romance, make sure you book tickets with summit access.

The Night of Museums

Visiting Paris in May? Make sure your visit coincides with the event La Nuit Des Musées, where you can visit the best Parisian museums at night, including the Louvre, Arts & Metries Museum, Musée d’Orsay and more. Entrance to the museums is completely free and you will be able to enjoy a completely different side of these main tourist attractions. Not only will you be able to view and enjoy the permanent collections, many Parisian museums also organise special activities, tours or concerts. In 2018, La Nuit des Musées is held on Saturday the 19^th of May from 8pm to midnight. There are no age restrictions in place, meaning it is a fantastic opportunity to give your children a once-in-a-lifetime experience by visiting the Louvre past its usual opening times. This special Night of the Museums is not just exclusive to Paris, but is actually an event hosted in other cities around Europe as well, including London, Barcelona and Lisbon.

Visit the Parks and Gardens

Paris is home to many beautiful parks and gardens that are well worth your time. If you find yourself close to the 6^th arrondissement, schedule a visit to Jardin du Luxembourg and discover what makes this park from 1612 so charming. Rich in history, the park serve as the backdrop to the Palais du Luxembourg and have something on offer for everyone. This park is very children-friendly, with plenty of playgrounds and areas for them to play around. Another child-friendly park is Jardin des Plantes – Paris’ botanical garden which houses over 10,000 species. The garden, found in the 5^th arrondissement, has been open to the public since 1640 and there is a nearby petting zoo as well. While the garden is free to enter, the petting zoo charges a small fee. One of Paris’ most diverse parks holds a Venetian Bridge, Chinese pagoda and an Egyptian pyramid amongst its features. Located in the 8^th arrondissement, the park is a favourite with locals who come to enjoy the tranquillity the park offers.