Top Unmissable Summer Attractions in Paris | Guide 2024

As surprising as it may seem, Paris offers plenty of outdoor adventures!

Many options are available, such as boating in the charming Bois de Boulogne. You can easily rent a boat right next to the Chalet des Îles to spend an afternoon on the lake.

Before or after boating, you can sit back and enjoy a refreshing drink on the terrace of the same chalet.

Another great option is to rent a boat on the Canal de l'Ourcq, which doesn't require a boating license. You'll discover a whole new side of Paris, and you can even picnic on board!

You can also stroll along the Canal de l'Ourcq in areas like the Marais or   Saint-Germain-des-Prés, which are brimming with charming little spots.

These iconic neighborhoods are full of surprises if you know where to look. In the Marais, don't miss the stunning Place des Vosges and its surroundings, as well as the Hôtel de Marle on rue Payenne, home to the Swedish Institute. In Saint-Germain, it's hard not to fall under the spell of the delightful Place de Furstemberg and the garden of the Musée Delacroix, a peaceful hidden gem.

Known as a city of museums, Paris offers its visitors cultural events as varied as they are original, even throughout July and August.

Music lovers will enjoy the Paris Jazz Festival, held every year in the Parc Floral. You can listen to jazz in one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in Paris! The rich lineup of concerts is available online, and they are free of charge with no booking required. Nearby, you can grab a bite to eat or continue your evening at Rosa Est, a guinguette in the middle of the Bois de Vincennes that Parisians love.

The various, lesser-known museum gardens, combining artists' works and leisurely strolls, are wonderful in summer.

The most famous is that of the Musée Rodin, where 3 hectares of greenery showcase Auguste Rodin's most beautiful sculptures. Smaller but equally delightful, the garden of the Musée de la Vie Romantique is home to an open-air tea room, where you can enjoy delicious pastries amid rose bushes and lilacs. The most original is undoubtedly the garden of the Albert Kahn Museum, boasting an authentic Japanese garden.

Finding places to have fun with the whole family couldn't be easier. The Jardin d'Acclimatation is a children's paradise, offering flying chairs, boat rides on the enchanted river, a clock tower, and a farm where children can see the animals—there's something for every age.

Another option is the Jardin du Luxembourg, surely one of the most beautiful parks in Paris. Here, you'll find a puppet theater, swings, and, of course, a carousel. You can also rent a miniature boat and sail it with your children on the main basin in the middle of the garden. Little Parisians are no strangers to this activity, which their grandparents already enjoyed!

The Jardin des Plantes is often described as one of Paris' children's favorite places. Not only does it have a menagerie, but it also features the famous Galerie de l'Évolution, showcasing over 7,000 larger-than-life specimens. With sound and light displays, 3D animations, everything is designed to ensure that children have a great time while learning about the different species that inhabit the Earth. Dinosaur fans won't want to miss the Paleontology Gallery, where you can travel back in time...

Romantic par excellence, Paris offers a multitude of possibilities. You can climb up to Montmartre, the bohemian district so beloved by the Impressionists, which has hardly changed in the last century. There, you can watch the sunset over Paris, stroll through the narrow streets that lead to the Place du Tertre, and pass by vineyards whose grapes are harvested each year at a grand festival.

A wonderful romantic experience is a dinner cruise on the Seine crafted by Alain Ducasse, one of France's most famous and talented chefs. You'll set sail for the evening and enjoy a French-style gourmet meal while admiring the city's illuminated sights, ending in front of the glittering Eiffel Tower.

For drinks or dinner, Rue des Barres, located between the Marais and Pont Louis-Philippe, offers a more relaxed atmosphere. This pedestrian-only area, with its tranquility, contrasts with the surrounding neighborhood and takes you back to the Paris of the past. Terraces of small, authentic restaurants surround a chic Belle Époque brasserie that still bears the name 'Chez Julien.' You can continue your evening with an ice cream cone from the famous Berthillon ice cream parlor on Île Saint-Louis, before strolling along the banks of the river.

Paris is the ideal city for shopping, observing trends, and bringing back souvenirs. On hot days, head to the Parisian department stores, which have the added advantage of being air-conditioned!

On the left bank, choose the Bon Marché. Open every day, even on Sundays, it's a major

institution in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district and a reference point for French refinement in both fashion and gastronomy.

On the right bank, near Rue de Rivoli, opt for the Samaritaine or the BHV: French and foreign designers, luxury brands, and unique creations can all be found there. Right next door, Eataly is a great place to drink a Spritz and enjoy Italian specialties.

• How to dress for Parisian weather?

The atmosphere in the city in summer is relaxed, and while the temperature rarely drops below 18/20°C, it can rise much higher, with some summers being very hot at times. Bring light clothing and comfortable shoes, and don't forget an umbrella, as occasional light thunderstorms can occur.

• Tips for avoiding tourist crowds?

Early morning is perfect for avoiding crowds. There are also more people at popular sights during weekends than weekdays. If possible, book your tickets for attractions, museums, and restaurants in advance—it's a good way to avoid waiting in line with the crowds.

• Is Paris fun in July?

Paris is very enjoyable in July! Parisians are more relaxed, and much of Parisian life happens outdoors, in the streets and on the terraces. Additionally, all shops, restaurants, museums, and attractions are open.

• Is Paris worth visiting in summer?

Absolutely! Paris is beautiful in every season, but the fine weather, long summer evenings, lush gardens, and vibrant atmosphere make it particularly special during this time of year and well worth visiting.