A Short Guide on Visiting Paris in the Fall
When planning a Parisian adventure, many people overlook visiting the City of Light in the Fall. Although the weather is crisp, there are many good reasons why a trip to Paris in the Fall can be nothing short of amazing.
Fall brings with it an added air of romance, beauty, and a touch of whimsy to Paris. As the leaves on the trees turn scarlet and deep orange, the city becomes bathed in a quiet, soft light unlike any other time of year. The parks and the banks of the Seine River are breathtaking as the hues of Fall settle over Paris. The streets are bustling with people returning from holiday refreshed and happy to be back in their capital city. All the cafes and restaurants are buzzing, and the shops and boutiques are filled with fantastic autumnal fashions.
To help you plan your fall adventure in Paris, Galeries Lafayette has put together this quick guide on what to do and see during your visit.
Must-See Attractions in Paris during the Fall
Fall in Paris has a unique charm. The golden leaves and brisk temperatures add a romantic touch to every outing. Here are the must-see attractions that capture the city’s magic during this beautiful time of year:
The Magnificent Gardens
One of the absolute must-see attractions of Paris in the Fall is its many gorgeous parks and green areas. The changing colors of the leaves are truly stunning. Combined with the city’s iconic architecture, the uniquely soft light at this time of year, and the unrivalled style of its citizens, Fall in a Parisian park provides you with a unique experience.
Great places to get comfortable include the Jardin des Tuileries, the Jardin du Luxembourg, or the Parc des Buttes Chaumont. Thrill in the magic of Paris and picnic at the Champ de Mars by the Eiffel Tower. A simple stroll along the banks of the Seine River is also a great way to enjoy the many colors of nature during this special season.
After you’ve experienced the magic of Fall in Paris, you can relax at one of the many fine cafés and restaurants at Galeries Lafayette.
Visit the Famous Cemeteries
Over the centuries, famous poets, actors, artists, writers, politicians, and other luminaries have made Paris their final resting place. While it may sound a little macabre, visiting the cemeteries of Paris is a wonderful way to learn about the history of the city’s most acclaimed denizens and pay your respects at the same time.
The Père Lachaise Cemetery was one of the world’s first garden cemeteries and is exceptionally pretty during the fall. Here you can find the graves of many world-famous figures, including the American singer Jim Morrison and France’s iconic songbird Edith Piaf. The composer Chopin is buried in this cemetery, as is the Irish playwright and poet Oscar Wilde, and the celebrated Italian artist Amadeo Modigliani.
There are also many monuments and memorials to France’s revered war heroes and revolutionaries. Be aware that France celebrates La Toussaint (All Saints’ Day) on the 1st of November. On this day, families come to lay flowers on the graves of their forebears.
Enjoy a Cultural Experience at a Museum or Gallery
The start of Fall marks what the French call the rentrée, or the back to school. This is when the French return from their holidays, but it also heralds the new start of the cultural seasons. Galleries and museums often begin new exhibitions at this time, and theaters often open new runs of plays or shows. It’s an ideal time to visit a famous museum such as the Louvre, the Rodin Museum, the Musée d’Orsay, or the Pompidou Centre.
Make sure you book early and arrive on time if you do plan to visit one of the popular museums or galleries. Although the tourist crowds thin out during the Fall, Paris is still one of the world’s most visited cities!
You can continue your cultural discovery at Galeries Lafayette Haussman. This iconic department store boasts magnificent Art Nouveau architecture. Located in the Opera district, you can browse a wide range of fashions from top French and international brands. If you need to refresh and recharge, you can find a range of cuisines to suit every taste. From gourmet food to vegetarian fare, French classics to Asian and Mediterranean cuisine. Enjoy a true Parisian fine dining experience or unwind with a more casual meal.
Take Some Time to Unwind at a Café
No trip to Paris would be complete without taking the time to sit and watch the world go by at some of the globe’s most gorgeous cafes. Café culture in France is romanticised and revered for good reasons! Relaxing at a café is simply one of the best ways to enjoy Paris in the fall – or at any other time.
You can settle in and relax at a range of cafes and restaurants at any of the Galeries Lafayette stores in Paris. At the Haussmann store, you can have coffee and pastries under the stunning Art Nouveau dome or head up to the Rooftop Café and enjoy an amazing view of Paris. The Custom Café is also well worth a visit for the beautiful view of the Coupole.
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For some dedicated gourmets, simply enjoying a meal is not enough. Anyone who wants to deepen their knowledge of French cuisine should try the gastronomic cooking classes run by the prestigious Ferrandi Paris school at Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann. Classes are held in English and are suitable for all skill levels. All classes are followed by on-the-spot tastings with a free glass of wine.
Seasonal Events and Festivals Happening in Paris during the Fall
During the Fall months, Paris plays host to a variety of cultural events and celebrations. From food festivals to art and fashion, you’ll find a fantastic variety of things to do and see.
One of the most popular is the Grape Harvest Festival (called Fête des Vendanges). Held during the first week of October throughout the Montmartre neighborhood, the festival is dedicated to a celebration of French wine and food. Now in its 91st year, the Fête des Vendanges Montmartre is not to be missed if you are a fan of French cuisine.
Lovers of French food and fashion will also love the seasonal gourmet goods and amazing Fall collections on offer at the stunning Galeries Lafayette flagship store on Boulevard Haussmann.
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Wine lovers will adore the Wine Gate Experience at Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann. This unique wine tasting gives visitors the chance to sample more than 100 types of wine and champagne from the most famous French and international regions.
Festival d’Automne
Another one of the big Fall events in Paris is the Festival d’Automne (Fall Festival). Since 1972, this multi-disciplinary arts festival has combined music, theater, dance, cinema, and the visual arts. Running from September to December, festival events are held at over forty locations throughout Paris.
Go on a Parisian Photo Tour of Your Own
Paris is a photographer’s dream, especially in the fall. From the architecture of the city to its stylish citizens, there’s plenty to photograph in Paris!
Get a New Perspective at the Paris Photo Exhibition
Paris Photo is the world’s largest art fair and a mecca for shutterbugs and movie lovers. The Paris photo fair runs every November at the Grand Palais. Over 200 exhibitors show their work at the exhibition, including both well-known names and emerging artists. Visitors can also enjoy curated exhibitions, workshops, special events, and talks hosted by artists, curators, collectors, and critics.
Photography Location
Of course, you don’t have to limit your photographic experience of Paris in the fall to just being a voyeur of other people’s work. You can set off on your photo tour and snap some of the most beautiful scenes that Paris has to offer.
The Avenue de New York is a great place to take shots of the Eiffel Tower framed by gorgeous fall leaves. The ivy wall in Montmartre is also a popular spot for those who want to capture the full allure of the Parisian fall. The many parks and gardens are also captivating photo shoot locations, as are the romantic staircases situated throughout the city.
One of the best places to snap a few photos is the iconic and historic Galeries Lafayette Haussmann. Combining luxury shopping and stunning architecture, Galeries Lafayette Haussmann has a breathtaking Art Nouveau glass dome and fabulous features dating to 1912.
On the third floor, visitors can marvel at the Glasswalk, a walkway suspended in mid-air at a height of 16 meters. Stretching nine meters, the Glasswalk puts you in the heart of the Galeries Lafayette Coupole, a masterpiece of Art Nouveau architecture. It’s simply an amazing experience and the perfect place for photos! There’s no doubt about it, the Galeries Lafayette Haussmann store is majestic, inside and out.
How to Pack for Paris during the Fall
The cool and crisp fall weather allows you to pack great outfits that can showcase your style. It won’t be as warm as spring or summer, and not as cold as winter, so choose clothes that hit that sweet spot. As for styling, choose neutral tones that complement the season and don’t overdo it with colors. Sleek, chic, and sophisticated is what you’re aiming for.
You’ll need to be comfortable, so a good pair of jeans is a great idea. A casual yet trendy leather jacket, puffer jacket, or pea coat will serve you well. Layering is crucial in fall, so jumpers or hoodies can work very well beneath your jacket. Be sure and pack a good pair of shoes, as a trip to Paris always means a lot of walking. Add a thick scarf and a good hat, and you’ll be all set to experience the wonders of Paris in fall.
Also, remember not to just pack for practicality’s sake. You may find yourself in a five-star restaurant or enjoying a night at the ballet. Be sure to put some finery in with your everyday wear!
Whatever you need to complete the ideal fall outfit, you’ll be able to find it at Galeries Lafayette. Take your visit to the next level with the Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann Shopping Experience.
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This exclusive shopping experience provides you with a dedicated Concierge service and a gourmet break so you can rest and store your belongings before shopping. And when you’re finished shopping, Galeries Lafayette will arrange for a taxi to take you back to your accommodation.
Where to Shop for an Amazing Outfit
Whether you’ve forgotten to pack an essential item or not, there’s no reason not to go shopping in Paris! Unleash your inner fashion guru and head to a Galeries Lafayette for fabulous outfits and accessories from some of the biggest names in fashion.
Immerse yourself in French shopping culture at the Haussmann-Opéra-Saint-Lazare quarter. Here you can browse some of the oldest and grandest department stores in all of Paris. Take the time to discover new Fall fashions and Parisian trends by innovative designers by visiting a live fashion show at Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann.
Galeries Lafayette also has a store right on the Champs-Élysées and a magnificent centre in the Beaugrenelle district. And don’t forget – non-EU visitors can enjoy a 12% VAT rebate!
FAQS on Visiting Paris in the Fall
When Is Fall in Paris?
Fall runs from September to November in France.
Is Fall a Good Time to Visit Paris?
Yes! You can expect fewer crowds and get the chance to experience the magnificent fall foliage.
What Is the Weather Like in Paris in Fall?
Cool and crisp temperatures with some rain. In September at the start of fall, lows can be between 10°C to 15°C (50°F and 60°F) while at the end of the season in November temperatures can range from 8°C to 12°C (46°F and 54°F). If you need to add items to your fall traveling wardrobe, just drop into a Galeries Lafayette store.
How Do People Dress in Paris in Fall?
Jackets, trench coats, blazers, knits, jeans, and midi skirts are the order of the day in Paris during the fall months. Footwear ranges from boots to sneakers. Visit a Galeries Lafayette store and shop for a truly Parisian fall outfit.
