Weather in Paris in November

November in Paris means cold days with comforting French cuisine. Don’t let the grey skies dissuade you — the chill in the air means fewer crowds at the city’s top sites. This is our guide to the weather in Paris for anyone willing to embrace the moody, atmospheric charm of Paris this time of year.

Is November a good time to visit Paris?

November can actually be a great month to experience the city in a different light. You'll find a mix of that autumn vibe and a bit of pre-holiday buzz. The weather in Paris in November tends to be cooler, with some rain here and there — so it's not perfect for all outdoor activities, but it's great for ducking into museums, cozy cafes, and other indoor spots.

You can expect mostly cloudy days with the occasional bursts of sunshine, which adds to that classic Parisian mood. With the summer rush over, you'll encounter fewer tourist crowds and have an easier time making restaurant reservations. Bring lots of layers and don’t let a little rain put you off; it just adds to the city's charm.

Sunshine, average temperatures, and rainfall in November

In November, Paris usually sees temperatures between 45°F and 54°F (7°C to 12°C), which is cooler than summer but still pretty mild for fall. During the day, it’s often around 52°F (11°C), so a light jacket or sweater should keep you comfortable while you explore. At night, it can get down to about 43°F (6°C), so you might want to layer up if you’re planning to be out and about. 

With around 9 hours of daylight, the days are getting shorter, and the weather can be a bit unpredictable, ranging from cloudy to occasional bursts of sunshine. Rain is fairly common, with about 2.2 inches (56 mm) spread over roughly 15 days in the month. While it’s not the wettest time of year, it’s good to be ready for a few rain showers.

What about the crowds & costs?

With the peak tourist season over, you'll find that November in Paris is much less crowded than in the summer. This means shorter lines at the main attractions, an easier time booking a table at popular restaurants, and a generally more laid-back vibe throughout the city. Hotel prices tend to be lower than during the high season, so you might snag some good deals on accommodations. 

While some outdoor spots may have shorter hours, most museums, galleries, and indoor venues are open as usual. The quieter atmosphere gives you a chance to enjoy a more genuine Parisian experience.

What to do in Paris in November

With winter fast approaching, there is plenty to do in Paris. Here are some ideas, or see our guide to the best things to do in France. 

Explore the Bercy Village for shopping and dining

Head over to Bercy Village for a laid-back day of shopping and dining. Set in old wine warehouses, the area features a mix of boutiques, restaurants, and cozy cafes. With covered walkways to shield you from any November rain, it's the perfect spot to spend an afternoon browsing shops and enjoying some French cuisine.

Discover the hidden Musée Zadkine

For a quieter, more artsy experience, check out the Musée Zadkine. This hidden gem was once the home and studio of sculptor Ossip Zadkine, and now it houses a collection of his modernist sculptures. The small, intimate museum is a peaceful retreat if you’re looking to escape the more crowded tourist spots in November.

Attend the Paris Chocolate Show or the Chocolate Museum

If you’re a fan of chocolate, November is your month. At the Salon du Chocolat, held around late October to early November, you can join tastings, watch demonstrations, and even see chocolate-inspired fashion shows. If you miss the event, don’t worry – the Chocolate Museum (Musée du Chocolat) is open year-round and offers interactive exhibits, tastings, and workshops all about chocolate.

Visit the Biennale de l'Image en Mouvement for Video Art

The Biennale de l'Image en Mouvement, a festival dedicated to video art and digital culture, often takes place in November.  This festival showcases innovative video art from international artists, with exhibitions held at various venues around Paris.

Enjoy the Paris Autumn Festival Performances

The Paris Autumn Festival (Festival d'Automne à Paris) runs through November, bringing a mix of theater, music, dance, visual arts, and film to the city. It’s a great way to experience a variety of artistic performances from around the world, with events happening across Paris.

Plan your trip to Paris in November

Planning a trip to Paris? Begin with our curated itineraries that take you through the city's top attractions, from the iconic Eiffel Tower to the lesser-known treasures of Montmartre.  Think about where you’d like to stay — our detailed articles can help you find the perfect neighborhood. For even more insights on Paris and beyond, grab a copy of “The Rough Guide to France.”

Ready for your dream trip to France?

Plan your trip on your own, or leave the details to our local travel experts. Our tailor-made trips handle all the planning and booking, giving you a hassle-free experience with 24/7 support. Check out these sample trip ideas:

• 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.
• 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.