Weather in Paris in April

April is when Paris fully welcomes spring. Cherry blossoms and magnolias start to color the parks and gardens, and locals trade in their winter coats for something lighter. The city feels refreshed,  with cafe terraces buzzing again and picnickers scattered across the lawns. You might get the occasional April shower, but they're usually broken up by plenty of sunny moments. Here's our guide to the weather in Paris in April.

Is April a good time to visit Paris?

April is a fantastic time to visit Paris. The city is bursting with springtime beauty, and the weather is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures slowly warming up.  Winter fades away, and the city experiences a mix of sunny days and occasional rain showers. The parks and gardens come alive with flowers, and you’ll see cherry blossoms all around.

 It’s also a great time to explore the city’s neighborhoods, enjoy outdoor dining at cafes, and take in the fresh spring air. The weather in Paris in April is comfortable, and this month is great for exploring without the peak summer crowds.

Sunshine, average temperatures and rainfall in April

In April, Paris is known for mild spring weather, with average temperatures ranging from 46°F to 59°F (8°C to 15°C). Daytime highs usually reach around 59°F (15°C), making it comfortable for exploring, while nights are cooler at around 46°F (8°C), so a light jacket is handy. The weather can be a bit unpredictable, with a mix of sunny days and occasional rain showers.

As spring progresses, the days get longer, with about 13 to 14 hours of daylight by the end of April. Rainfall is moderate, averaging 1.65 inches (42 mm) over roughly 14 rainy days.

What about the crowds & costs?

While not as crowded as the peak summer months, Paris in April means that popular attractions and landmarks may still experience moderate to high foot traffic, especially during the latter half of April and around Easter holidays. Hotel rates and airfares tend to slowly start to climb as the month progresses, due to the growing demand. This can be a great time to visit to avoid the intense crowds of summer, and the intense cold of winter.

What to do in Paris in April

With spring blooming in the city, there's tons to do. Here are some ideas, or see our guide to the best things to do in France. 

Visit the Musée de l'Orangerie to see Monet's Water Lilies

In April, the Musée de l'Orangerie is a must-visit, especially to see Monet's stunning Water Lilies series. The soft spring light enhances the beauty of these iconic works, displayed in the museum's oval rooms, which were designed specifically to showcase them. 

Visit the Paris Book Fair

If you're a book lover, the Paris Book Fair in April is the place to be. This annual event brings together authors, publishers, and readers from around the globe. With book signings, debates, workshops, and more, it’s a great chance to discover new authors, explore international literature, and attend thought-provoking discussions.

Explore the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

April is the perfect time to visit Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, one of the most beautiful green spaces in Paris. The park comes alive with blooming flowers and fresh greenery, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic. Don’t forget to visit the Temple de la Sibylle for stunning views of the city.

Attend a concert at Sainte-Chapelle

For a magical evening, attend a concert at Sainte-Chapelle. This Gothic gem, famous for its towering stained-glass windows, hosts classical performances that are unforgettable. The combination of music and the chapel’s stunning architecture creates an atmosphere unlike any other.

PAD Paris Art + Design fair

If you’re into art and design, the PAD Paris Art + Design fair is a must. Held in April, this prestigious event features galleries from around the world showcasing a mix of modern art, contemporary design, and even tribal art. Whether you’re browsing or looking to buy, you’ll find exceptional pieces ranging from furniture to fine jewelry.

Plan your trip to Paris in April

Getting ready for a trip to Paris? Begin by checking out our curated itineraries, which take you through the city's top landmarks, from the iconic Eiffel Tower to the charming hidden corners of Montmartre. Need help choosing where to stay? Our detailed articles showcase the best neighborhoods, filled with insider recommendations from local experts. For a more extensive look at Paris and the rest of the country, grab a copy of “The Rough Guide to France.”

Ready for your dream trip to France?

Plan your trip yourself, or let our local travel experts handle it for you. Our tailor-made trips take care of all the details, from planning to booking, offering you a seamless experience with 24/7 support. Explore these sample trip ideas:

• Tasting eastern France (12 days): Savor Lyon's culinary delights, then enjoy a 4-day walk in Beaujolais, staying at guesthouses with daily wine tastings.
• Taste of three (10 days): Discover Belgium's Brussels, Ghent, and Bruges. Train to Strasbourg for Alsace. From Basel, explore Switzerland's Zermatt, Matterhorn, and Mount Pilatus.
• Walking tour of out-of-the-way France (14 days): Experience Paris like a local, then journey south for a scenic walking tour through Southern France, ending near Avignon.

Ready to start planning? See our trip ideas gallery for more inspiration.