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Paris in autumn is pure magic. As the leaves begin to turn golden and the boulevards fill with the scent of roasted chestnuts and fresh pastries, the city transforms into a painterly dream. Whether you’re catching the last rays of summer warmth in September or bundling up in a chic coat by November, fall in Paris offers a unique charm unlike any other season.
The Paris autumn aesthetic blends elegance with coziness, making it an ideal time for both romance and exploration. Many say the city feels more authentic during this season as locals reclaim the streets after the busy summer months, and the city slows, becoming more reflective, yet filled with energy.
The combination of crisp weather, fewer crowds, and stunning scenery makes autumn in Paris the perfect time to explore French culture, cuisine, and history. From fashion to festivals, every detail during this time contributes to the enchanting Parisian fall aesthetic.
When is Autumn in Paris?
Autumn in Paris begins in late September and stretches through November. These three months—September, October, and November—mark a seasonal transition, as the warmth of summer gradually gives way to the chill of winter.
Fall in France is known for its vivid landscapes and moody skies, and Paris is no exception. The shift in seasons in Paris is marked by stunning foliage, cozy cafés, and shorter days that invite you to savor every golden hour.
Is this your first time visiting France? Get all the information you need in our France Travel Guide, including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there and practical tips to help you have the best trip!
Where to Stay in Paris
Luxury: The Shangri‑La Hotel is a beautifully restored palace hotel in the 16th arrondissement, offering Michelin‑starred dining and breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower. Nestled near the Seine and Bois de Boulogne, it’s perfect for autumn strolls among golden leaves and romantic Paris views during October and November.
Mid‑Range: Hôtel de Fleurie is a cozy gem on the Left Bank, praised for its warm fall ambiance and leafy walks in the neighborhood. In October and November, guests enjoy serene, foliage-lined boulevards and easy access to cultural autumn events, as well as cafés that celebrate the Parisian autumn aesthetic.
Budget: Hotel ibis budget Paris Porte de Montmartre is located just north of Montmartre. This affordable 2-star hotel offers proximity to the vibrant autumn colors of Montmartre and the Grape Harvest Festival in October. With breakfast included, it’s ideal for exploring seasonal events while keeping costs low.
Hostel: Generator Paris is a popular and stylish hostel offering private and dorm rooms with a lively atmosphere. Situated near Canal Saint‑Martin in the Gare du Nord area, it’s excellent for social travelers looking to soak in fall Paris, with easy access to leafy waterways and cultural happenings.
Ready to make the most of your time in the City of Light? Check out our Paris itinerary for the perfect blend of iconic sights, cozy cafés, and unforgettable autumn charm!
Paris Fall Weather by Month
September
Paris in September is often still warm, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 21°C (55°F to 70°F). Rainfall is moderate, averaging about 15 mm over 8 rainy days, and the city enjoys roughly 7 hours of daylight with sunsets around 7.45pm early in the month, gradually getting earlier. The skies are usually clear, and it’s one of the best times to explore outdoor attractions.
October
Paris in October becomes noticeably cooler, with averages between 10°C to 16°C (50°F to 61°F)–this cooler weather brings peak fall foliage, blanketing the city in vibrant hues of gold, orange, and burgundy.
Rain increases slightly to about 25mm across 10 rainy days. You can expect around 5 hours of sunshine per day, and sunset moves to around 6.45pm at the beginning of the month and drops to 5.15pm by Halloween, aided by the clocks going back an hour on the last Sunday in October.
November
Paris in November can be quite chilly and damp, with temperatures hovering between 6°C to 11°C (43°F to 52°F). It is the wettest fall month, averaging 30 mm of rain across 12 days.
The days are shorter, with just 3–4 hours of sunshine and sunset times as early as 4.55pm by the end of the month. Despite the colder, greyer skies, there’s a cozy, nostalgic feel to the city, perfect for enjoying indoor attractions and warm seasonal cuisine.
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What to Pack for Autumn in Paris
For Paris in September, light layers, a stylish jacket, and comfortable shoes are ideal. Think early fall Paris aesthetic—stylish trench coats, light scarves, and sunglasses. Essentials include sunglasses, a compact umbrella, breathable long-sleeve tops, cardigans, lightweight sweaters, and stylish walking shoes or sneakers.
October in Paris calls for warmer clothing, such as cozy knitwear, ankle boots, and a heavier coat. You’ll want to embrace that classic Paris fall aesthetic with cozy, chic pieces. Bring: wool or cashmere sweaters, a medium-weight jacket or trench, ankle boots, and a scarf and gloves for early mornings or late evenings.
By November, opt for wool coats, gloves, and waterproof footwear to handle rain and colder temperatures. Paris in November can be unpredictable, so layering is essential. Recommended items include a warm, waterproof coat, thermal base layers, waterproof boots, a beanie, a scarf, gloves, and a travel-size umbrella.
What to Do & See in Autumnal Paris
The Paris autumn aesthetic comes alive in the city’s gardens and historical districts. Visit the Luxembourg Gardens and Tuileries to see fall foliage in its full glory. The Seine riverbanks are perfect for autumn strolls, while Montmartre becomes even more charming with its vine-covered buildings and artistic soul.
For top attractions, don’t miss the newly renovated Notre-Dame, Sainte-Chapelle, and the Panthéon in the Latin Quarter. The Louvre Museum and Musée d’Orsay are also great indoor spots to appreciate French art when the weather turns cool.
The Eiffel Tower, always iconic, looks especially dramatic when framed by autumn leaves from spots like Champ de Mars, the Pont de Bir-Hakeim bridge, and Trocadéro Gardens. For photography, the golden hour at Trocadéro offers sweeping views with warm, golden light. At dawn, shoot from Rue de l’Université or the Seine’s Right Bank near Pont Alexandre III for misty, serene Eiffel Tower shots.
Lesser-known gems, such as Parc des Buttes-Chaumont and Parc Monceau, offer quieter corners with fall colors, while the covered passages, like Galerie Vivienne, allow you to wander indoors while still soaking up the 19th-century Parisian charm.
One of the most beloved traditions during autumn in Paris is simply savoring time at a café. People-watching while sipping vin chaud (hot wine) or espresso captures the essence of Paris in the fall.
Locals enjoy slow strolls through parks, visits to bookshops like Shakespeare and Company, and cozy afternoons at the museum. The rituals of fall in Paris are all about balance between culture, cuisine, and quiet moments.
Other Low Season Trip Ideas
Notable Parisian Events in the Fall
Paris in the fall hosts several cultural highlights. In September, enjoy the Journées du Patrimoine (Heritage Days), where historic buildings open their doors for free, and the Festival d’Automne, which showcases theater, dance, music, visual arts, and cinema across various venues in Paris.
October brings Nuit Blanche, an all-night art festival, and the Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival, celebrating Parisian vineyards.
Paris in November offers the Pitchfork Music Festival, armistice commemorations, and the all-important release of the year’s Beaujolais Nouveau wine, with festivities and tastings at various bars and restaurants. These events add vibrant energy to the quieter fall season.
What to Eat in Paris in Autumn
Fall in Paris means a seasonal shift in menus. Indulge in French onion soup, roasted chestnuts from street vendors, wild mushroom dishes, and warming stews like boeuf bourguignon.
Bakeries highlight seasonal ingredients with tarts made from figs, apples, and pears. Don’t miss a visit to an outdoor market for fresh produce and seasonal cheeses—it’s a delicious way to experience France in the fall.
Paris Travel Tips
With fewer crowds and a more relaxed pace, the fall season reveals a deeper, more intimate side of Paris. Whether you’re admiring the autumn in Paris’ wallpaper-worthy streets, indulging in seasonal dishes, or embracing the calm of France in the fall, this city never ceases to inspire. Paris in autumn is an experience wrapped in gold—timeless, romantic, and unforgettable.
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