Spring in Paris: 12 Best Things to do During Springtime in Paris

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure for more information.

Spring in Paris is unlike any other season. Flowers start to bloom again, and the city seems to come alive with new energy. There is something special about Paris in the springtime; it’s like nothing else exists.

I was lucky enough to enjoy a Paris spring during my visit to France while studying abroad in Dublin. It truly was the most gorgeous weather, and lines were nowhere near as long as I heard they could be if I were to visit during the summer months.

Throughout this post, you’ll learn all about the best things to do during springtime in Paris. From visiting historical landmarks to enjoying the beautiful weather by going on a tour, this list does have something for everyone.

Keep reading to learn all about the best spring in Paris activities.

Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral

One of the top things to do during spring time in Paris is to pay a visit to the Notre Dame Cathedral. It’s genuinely one of the most important landmarks throughout the city.

The Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Paris, and for a good reason. The cathedral is beautiful inside and out, and it offers visitors a chance to truly step back in time, even if you can only see it from the outside. In fact, seeing it from the outside is one of the top free things to do in Paris.

There are also plenty of shops and restaurants nearby, so visitors can easily spend an entire day exploring Notre Dame Cathedral and the surrounding area.

During the time of my visit in 2019, visitors were allowed to sign up to go into the tower and take in the view from the top of the cathedral. Hopefully, this (or something similar) will be open to the public again after restorations.

Snap a Photo at the Eiffel Tower

Obviously, one of the best Paris Instagram spots is no other than the Eiffel Tower. This is the landmark to visit while in Paris, and it’s almost always busy.

Paris is known for its stunning architecture and picturesque scenery. There’s no better place to take in the city’s beauty than at the Eiffel Tower. The tower is lit up every night, making it a must-see attraction during any season.

The perfect time to visit the Eiffel Tower is during spring in Paris. Snap a photo of this iconic landmark, and you’ll always remember your trip!

For an unforgettable experience, you can also consider going to the top of the Eiffel Tower. It’s best to try to reserve this in advance. You can see all of the beautiful parks and riverfronts that make up this iconic cityscape from the tower.

See the Cherry Blossoms

Springtime in Paris is a memorable experience. The city wakes up from its winter slumber, the flowers start to bloom, and the trees are covered in blossoms.

There are many spots throughout Paris to find cherry blossoms. Some great spots to go to include the Champs de Mars, Tuileries Gardens, Parc Monceau, and Palais Royal. Sometimes you can also find them up and down the Seine River.

Note that there is a pretty specific window of time to see the cherry blossoms in Paris in the springtime, and the time truly does vary by year, which makes it hard to plan. Generally, it’s from early March to the end of April. To avoid crowds, try to find them during the week. This will allow you to get better pictures!

Go on a Seine River Cruise

There’s no better way to take in the beauty of Paris in the spring than by cruising down the Seine River! The river winds its way through the heart of the city, providing picturesque views of world-famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral. 

A leisurely cruise is a perfect way to spend a spring day in Paris – enjoy a glass of wine or a bite to eat as you take in the sights and sounds of this fantastic city.

The Marina de Paris Seine River Cruise is an excellent option if you want a romantic cruise for spring in Paris. It’s an hour and a half long and includes dinner, beverages, and incredible views along the way.

Another great option is this Seine River Cruise which is during the day and includes the Paris canals. This tour is a bit longer and lasts about two and a half hours. Plus, there is excellent commentary along the way.

Marvel at History in the Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum is one of the most popular tourist destinations globally, and with good reason. The museum is home to a vast array of art and artifacts, but it’s also located in one of the most beautiful scenic parts of Paris.

The museum is home to some of the most famous artworks in history, including Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. In addition to its collection of ancient and Renaissance art, the museum also has extensive holdings from other periods, including French Impressionism and Post-Impressionism.

If you do plan on visiting The Louvre, make sure you give yourself ample time, as the museum is actually huge. You’ll also want to get there earlier in the morning to avoid the crowds, especially the ones that occur around Mona Lisa.

Relax in the Luxembourg Gardens

The Luxembourg Gardens are a wonderful place to spend a spring day in Paris. The gardens are full of beautiful flowers and trees, and there is plenty of space to relax and enjoy the sunshine.

The gardens are also home to a playground, a pond, and several restaurants, making them perfect for families or those who want to explore Paris’ green spaces.

What makes it even better is that there are many benches throughout the park, too so you can honestly sit and relax. Consider bringing a book to read while enjoying the spring weather at the Luxembourg Gardens.

Take in the View from the Sacre Coeur Basilica

One of the most popular tourist destinations to visit during spring in Paris is the Sacre Coeur Basilica. The view from the top of the Basilica is stunning, and it’s a great place to people-watch. In the springtime, when the trees are starting to bloom and the flowers are in bloom, it’s an especially beautiful sight.

Truthfully, you can also get a great view without even going into the church. Right in front of the church is a beautiful view of Montmartre and the rest of the city. There are also telescopes so you can see further out if needed.

In addition, there are many spots to sit and relax here if you’d like, and there are often some food trucks in the area too, where you can grab a bite to eat.

Explore the Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. It’s one of the largest monuments in Paris. Climb to the top for some fantastic views of the city. If you’re lucky, you might even glimpse the Eiffel Tower.

Even if you don’t have time to climb to the top, it’s still worth visiting to see it in person. Be sure to walk up to it and also snap some photos from across the street. It’s truly a sight to behold, especially if you’ve seen it before in Parisian movies on television.

Attend a Cooking Class

Paris is a city that is known for its food. It has something for everyone, from the simple croissants and baguettes to the more complex dishes. If you are looking to learn how to cook some of these amazing dishes or even just want to learn more about French cuisine, consider attending a cooking class.

There are many different cooking classes available in Paris. You can find classes that focus on specific types of cuisine, such as French or Italian food, or you can find general cooking classes that will teach you how to make a variety of dishes. 

Classes are typically 2-3 hours long and include a demonstration from the instructor and time for students to practice what they have learned. Attending a cooking class is a great way to learn more about French cuisine and meet other people interested in cooking.

This Paris Cooking Class is an excellent option for a lovely French dinner. It lasts about four to six hours long and includes a starter, a main, and a dessert. Specifically, choose the six-hour option if you really want also to include a visit to a French market.

For a more sweet time, consider booking this Paris Macaron Class. Throughout the three hours, you’ll make this classic French treat from scratch.

Have a Picnic in a Paris Park

There are many great places to have a picnic in Paris, but one of the best places is on the banks of the Seine River. The view of Notre Dame Cathedral across the river is breathtaking, and there are always plenty of people around to watch and enjoy. 

Another excellent spot for a picnic is in one of the city’s many parks. The Luxembourg Gardens or Jardin du Tuileries are both wonderful choices, and they’re both close to some of Paris’ best museums. 

And if you’re looking for a quiet spot away from the crowds, there are plenty of gardens and squares all over Paris where you can spread out your blanket and enjoy a delicious meal al fresco.

Go on a Day Trip to Versailles

When the weather starts to warm up in Paris, there’s no better way to spend a spring day than by taking a trip out to Versailles. The Palace of Versailles is just a short train ride from the city and is definitely worth a visit. 

The gardens are stunning in the springtime, and there’s plenty to see inside the palace as well. A day trip to Versailles is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of Paris for a while and enjoy some peace and quiet in nature.

If you’d rather visit Versailles on a budget, then be sure to just go to the gardens because they are completely free to visit. If you want to go to the palace, make your ticket reservation in advance and get there right when they open.

Try Macarons

If there’s one thing that Paris is known for, it’s the endless array of delicious pastries and desserts. From croissants to éclairs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. But if you’re looking for a uniquely Parisian pastry experience, you can’t go wrong with a macaron. Macarons are delicate meringue cookies filled with flavored cream, and they come in a wide variety of flavors and colors.

There are countless places to find macarons in Paris, but if you’re looking for the best of the best, here are a few spots worth checking out. 

Ladurée is arguably the most famous macaron maker in Paris, and their boutiques are always crowded with tourists and locals alike. A more affordable option that I personally loved is Maison Georges Larnicol which has a few spots throughout the city.

Paris, in springtime, is a magical place. The city is alive with color and activity, and the weather is perfect for sightseeing and enjoying the outdoors. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned pro, be sure to add Paris to your list of destinations for a spring vacation.

Hopefully, you will enjoy your trip in spring to Paris! Don’t forget to save this post and share it for later.