Discover Summer in Paris: The City of Light
Summer’s here and it’s time to enjoy the outdoor life. A trip to Paris in summer means stylish outdoor cafés, walks in the park, the top sights and irresistible designer shopping.
Settle into Paris in Summer
You’ve just arrived in Paris after a long journey and aren´t sure what to do next. Why not start the day with a visit to the Wellness Galerie, and take a 45-minute Jet Lag Remodelling session to revive you? We promise you’ll feel ready for anything after this treatment!
While you’re here you could indulge in a beauty treatment to prepare yourself for your summer visit to Paris. Next, head for the DS Café for a healthy snack to set you up for your first day in the city. Once you’re feeling full of energy it’s time to discover the beauty of Paris in summer.
Good to know 📝
From infra-red saunas to facials, a hair styling bar and massage , the Galeries Lafayette Wellness Galerie offers a range of treatments that will keep you looking your best for Paris in the summer.
The Benefits of Visiting Paris in the Summer
One of the best times to visit Paris is the summer when the days are longer, tourists are fewer, and you get to experience the real Paris.
Enjoy the outdoor activities
Paris comes alive in the summer, with couples strolling hand in hand along the River Seine, picnics in the park and outdoor events. Lose yourself in the magic of Paris in summer and mingle with the French at pavement cafés or take in an outdoor movie at Cinéma en plein air at La Villette or Chaise et l’Ecran in the 11th arrondissement.
Shop until you drop!
If you’re a shopaholic, July and August are the best times to visit, when the summer sales take place in the French capital and you’ll find all kinds of bargains. Shop for your favorite fashion brands at Galeries Lafayette and get that Louboutin handbag or pair of Jimmy Choos.
Visit the parks of Paris
The parks and gardens of Paris are at their most beautiful in the summer, with lush greenery and blooming flowers. The Jardin du Luxembourg, the Tuileries Gardens, and the Bois de Boulogne are all great places to relax and soak up the sunshine (plus they’re free!).
Longer days and lovely weather
Travel to France in summer and you can take advantage of the longer days and mild evenings. More daylight gives you time to visit your favorite Paris landmarks and make the most of the fresh air.
Good to know 📝
The weather in Paris can heat up in the summer months, so be sure to pack plenty of lightweight clothing. If you have room in your suitcase when you’re packing at home you can always visit the clothing department of Galeries Lafayette to enhance your summer wardrobe
Take a break from the city
If the weather gets too warm we suggest visiting the Palace of Versailles and Fontainebleau on the outskirts of the city. Your nearest metro station will take you to the railway station (Paris Gare Montparnasse for Versailles and Gare du Lyon for Fontainebleau). Easy to reach in under an hour, these day trips offer an insight into the history of Paris and the charm of the towns outside the city.
The Top Summer Activities in Paris
There’s so much to do in Paris in summer and the good news is this is a great time to visit as there are fewer tourists, so you won’t have to queue for the main attractions.
Go to the beach
Yes, you can laze on the beach in Paris! In the height of summer, the banks of the Seine River turn into the Paris Plages, with real sand, ice cream stalls, deckchairs, and umbrellas. You’ll even find outdoor swimming pools where you can take a refreshing dip.
Explore the city by bike
Rent a bike and take your time discovering Paris. From the main attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and Notre Dame to the charming streets of Montmartre and the majestic Sacré-Coeur, bike rental is the perfect way to see Paris.
Take a walk through the air
Experience the amazing sense of weightlessness when you transverse the 9-meter glass walkway at Galeries Lafayette. As you glide across the walkway you’ll feel like you’re suspended in the air. Look up and be enthralled by the spectacular stained glass dome that catches the light at different angles – creating the perfect photo opportunity.
Join in the Bastille Day celebrations
This French national holiday on July 14 is an event not to miss on a summer trip to Paris. Watch the spectacular military parade on the Champs Élysées and look to the skies for the aircraft flyover. In the evening a river cruise on the water of the Seine ensures the best view of the breathtaking fireworks display.
Take a French cookery course
For something totally different you could take a Chef’s Secrets cooking class and learn how to prepare delicious French cuisine. Or if you want to try creating mouthwatering pastries and macarons you can sign up for the Baker’s Secrets class.
Visit the top attractions
No trip to Paris is complete without seeing the top sights including the Eiffel Tower, The Louvre and Opera Garnier. Not sure which to visit first? Take a look at our guide to the 21 must-visit places in Paris for inspiration.
What are the Best Cultural Highlights and Festivals in Paris?
There’s always something going on in Paris in the summer to satisfy culture lovers. From art galleries to architecture and museums to musical events – there’s something for everyone.
Delve into the history of Paris
Sacré Coeur atop Montmartre Hill, the Cathedral of Notre Dame and the Catacombs will each take you into the depths of Paris’ history. Another historic landmark of Paris is the Galeries Lafayette building, created in the Haussmann architectural style.
Good to know 📝
Book a guided Heritage Tour of the Galeries Lafayette store and find out about its fascinating design. Learn about the impressive Dome and discover the history of one of the most famous department stores in the world.
Tour the museums/art galleries
The Louvre, home to the iconic Mona Lisa, the glass-structured Pompidou Centre housing Warhol works of art and the Musée de Picasso are three of Paris’ most famous museums.
Join in with the Paris music scene
The City of Light offers several musical events during the summer including:
- Festival Paris l’Été (Paris Summer Festival) – taking place throughout July where public spaces across the city transform into open-air stages. You can expect a diverse program of dance, theater, music, and circus performances – all for free.
- Rock en Seine – a huge music festival in late August at Domaine National de Saint-Cloud, showcasing a lineup of international rock, pop, and alternative artists.
- Paris Jazz Festival – held outdoors at the Parc Floral de Vincennes from June to late July, this free festival features established and up-and-coming jazz groups every Saturday and Sunday. Pack a picnic (with supplies purchased at Le Gourmet on the ground floor of Galeries Lafayette) and enjoy a relaxing afternoon of music amidst beautiful surroundings.
Good to know 📝
Paris is a relatively small city and traveling around it is easy. Whether you choose to travel by metro or buy a Paris Travel Pass for the hop-on-hop-off bus which includes several museums, navigating Paris is simple.
The Best Places to Enjoy Parisian Summer Gastronomy
A Paris summer isn´t complete without sampling some of the finest French cuisine. Whether a typical French breakfast at a pavement café or a Michelin-starred dining experience, Paris offers some delightful places to eat.
Eat al fresco and take in the sights
Eating in Paris in summer is a chance to enjoy the many outdoor terraces and brasseries. Perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner with your travel companions whilst you watch the world go by, each has its own unique character.
Good to know 📝
The rooftop terrace at Galeries Lafayette offers a pop-up restaurant every summer. Book your table to enjoy breakfast on the terrace at Créatures or sip a cocktail and gaze over the Paris rooftops as the sun sets.
Sample the gourmet restaurants at Galeries Lafayette
Combine a shopping trip with a selection of delicious dishes at one of our Gourmet restaurants. From typical French cuisine to Asian or Mediterranean dishes, you’ll find something to suit every taste. Why not treat yourself to pre-lunch or dinner drinks at Le Bar de la Cave, where you’ll find a selection of the finest French wines and champagnes?
Pack a picnic
Head to Le Gourmet market for a selection of the best picnic ingredients you’ll ever taste. Pastries, cold meats, fruit, salads, seafood, and of course French wine… discover the tempting range of picnic ingredients on offer. All you need to do then is find the perfect location on the banks of the Seine or in one of the many public parks and gardens of Paris.
Embrace the Parisian café culture
Visit Paris in the summer and start your day with a delicious breakfast at an outdoor café. If you’re planning a day of shopping you can stop for coffee and a croissant at Café Coutume, and enjoy a taste of ‘all things Paris’. The café looks down over the high-end stores and offers a magnificent view of the store’s architecture and décor.
Tour the street food markets
Take advantage of the summer weather and visit the street food markets of Paris where you can try out local produce that’s been freshly picked and prepared.
Preparing for Your Summer Trip to Paris
Follow our tips to ensure you get the most out of Paris in summer.
Plan an itinerary to remember
Don’t miss a moment of your vacation in Paris wondering about where to visit. Plan your schedule in advance and create a must-see list of attractions that are on your bucket list.
Book a comfortable hotel
When you travel to Paris in the summer we advise you to book accommodation with air conditioning to ensure you get a good night’s sleep. If you’re looking for a quality hotel in the heart of Paris why not consider our partner, the Paris Marriott Opera Ambassador?
Centrally located in the Opera District, this luxury hotel is only moments from all the main Paris attractions and 250 meters from the closest metro stations – Saint Jacques and Glaciere. Plus, when you book a stay at the Paris Marriott Opera Ambassador Hotel, you’ll be treated to a voucher to use at the Galeries Lafayette Wellness Galerie.
Brush up on your French
Whether you’re fluent or just have a few basic phrases from your school days, speaking French will go a long way. You can practice when shopping, at restaurants or start up a conversation with the locals. There are plenty of apps to download on your phone, which will help pass the time on the flight.
What to pack for Paris in summer
When you prepare your packing list for Paris in summer you should include summer clothes that are easy to wear. We suggest:
- a couple of skirts and lightweight pants
- a few summer dresses
- linen trousers or shorts for men
- sunglasses
- sneakers and a pair of elegant shoes for a night out at the opera or the Moulin Rouge
- a little black dress for a stylish evening
- sunscreen and insect repellant
You can buy sunscreen and all your favorite beauty brands at Galeries Lafayette, so you don’t have to worry about bringing bottles, jars and perfumes with you.
When you pack for Paris don´t forget to leave plenty of room in your suitcase for your shopping at Galeries Lafayette.
Good to know 📝
If you live outside the EU you can enjoy a 12% tax refund on your purchases at Galeries Lafayette… perfect if you want to buy jewelry, watches or souvenirs to take home.
We hope we’ve inspired you with plenty of ideas for things to do in Paris in the summer. Paris is a beautiful city with a lot to offer. Relax, soak up the atmosphere, and enjoy your time in Paris in summer!
