Weather in Paris in July

July in Paris means long summer days, outdoor festivals, and picnics along the Seine. Sip chilled rosé, savor fresh berries, and enjoy the Bastille Day fireworks. While the weather is warm, the city's charm is felt in lively street cafes and urban beaches. Here's our guide to the weather in Paris in July.

Is July a good time to visit Paris?

July is both an exciting and potentially tricky time to visit Paris. You'll enjoy the city's vibrant summer atmosphere, with warm, sunny days and pleasant weather. The city comes alive with festivals, parades, fireworks, and events like open-air movie screenings and Paris Plages, where they set up artificial beaches along the river.

However, it’s peak tourist season, so while the city is full of energy, you’ll need to plan ahead for popular attractions and be prepared for crowds at major spots.

Sunshine, average temperatures, and rainfall in July

In July, Paris enjoys some of its warmest weather, with average highs around 76°F (24°C) and nighttime temperatures dipping to about 61°F (16°C). Compared to spring and fall, it's much warmer, making it ideal for being outside. The days are long, with sunlight lasting until about 10 PM, giving you plenty of time to explore the city.

Rainfall is relatively low in July, with about 2.2 inches (56 mm) spread over 8 days. While you might encounter brief showers or thunderstorms, they usually don’t last long and can be a nice break from the summer heat.

What about the crowds & costs?

In July, Paris is at the height of tourist season, attracting visitors from all over the world. Major attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre Dame can get quite crowded, leading to long lines and busy spaces. With the high demand, expect accommodations such as hotels and vacation rentals to be priced higher, and flights to Paris may also be more expensive.

On the upside, the lively atmosphere and summer energy are hard to beat, with festivals and events adding to the experience. Just be prepared to plan ahead and budget for the seasonal surge in costs.

What to do in Paris in July

With summer at its peak in the city, there's tons to do. Here are some ideas, or see our guide to the best things to do in France. 

Attend Bastille Day celebrations (July 14)

Bastille Day, or "La Fête Nationale," is France’s biggest holiday, and Paris celebrates it in style. You can watch the impressive military parade down the Champs-Élysées, enjoy free concerts, and end the day with a stunning fireworks display at the Eiffel Tower.

Attend a nocturnal tour of the Père Lachaise Cemetery

For a different experience, join a night tour of Père Lachaise Cemetery. After dark, this iconic cemetery, home to the graves of famous figures like Jim Morrison and Oscar Wilde, feels even more atmospheric. Guided tours reveal fascinating stories about its notable residents and rich history, making it a must for history buffs and the curious alike.

Attend the finale of the Tour de France on the Champs-Élysées

Catch the thrilling conclusion of the Tour de France in late July as the cyclists race down the Champs-Élysées for the final sprint. With crowds lining the streets and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s an exciting way to witness this world-famous sporting event in one of the world's most beautiful settings.

Discover the Musée des Arts et Métiers 

If you’re looking to escape the summer heat, head to the Musée des Arts et Métiers. This museum is all about industrial design and technological innovation, with exhibits ranging from early scientific tools to modern inventions. Set in a beautiful 18th-century building.

Participate in the Dîner en Blanc (White Dinner) event

Dîner en Blanc is a chic and secretive event where thousands of people dressed in all white gather at a surprise location for an elegant outdoor dinner. While it’s invitation-only, the event itself is a sight to behold even from afar, with the white-clad diners creating a magical, unforgettable scene against the Parisian backdrop.

Plan your trip to Paris in July

Planning a trip to Paris? Begin with our handpicked itineraries, showcasing must-see sights such as the Eiffel Tower and the delightful nooks of Montmartre. Looking for the perfect place to stay? Our comprehensive guides highlight the best neighborhoods, featuring insights from local experts. For an in-depth journey through Paris and beyond, don’t miss “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.
• Southern France (10 days): Begin in Marseille, visit Cassis, then explore Provence’s Alpilles region on foot from Les Baux to St. Remy, finishing in Avignon.

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