Weather in Paris in October

October is a magical time to visit Paris, from Fashion Week to the beautiful changing leaves. As summer fades, the city becomes even cozier, with mild temperatures and a few rain showers adding to the charm of relaxed strolls and café visits.  Here’s our guide to the weather in Paris in October.

Is October a good time to visit Paris?

October is a great time to visit Paris. The city has a cozy autumn ambiance, with cooler but comfortable weather and beautiful golden leaves decorating the parks and streets. It’s the perfect time to explore without the summer crowds, whether you want to take a walk along the Seine, relax at outdoor cafés, or visit museums without long lines. Plus, October brings some fun events like wine festivals and art fairs, and you can enjoy seasonal treats like roasted chestnuts in the city's many bistros. The weather in Paris in October makes it a great time to experience the charm of the city.

Sunshine, average temperatures and rainfall in October

In October, Paris enjoys mild autumn weather. Daytime temperatures are usually around 60°F (15.6°C), while nights are cooler, dropping to about 52°F (11.1°C), so it’s a good idea to have a light jacket for evening strolls. 

Daylight lasts about 11 hours, giving you shorter days than in summer. The weather can be a mix of sunny and cloudy skies, with rainfall averaging around 2.1 inches (54 mm). Although October sees slightly more rain than the summer months, it’s not overwhelming, and you'll often find clear, crisp days perfect for enjoying Paris’ parks and the autumn scenery.

What about the crowds & costs?

October in Paris hits a great middle ground between the busy summer season and the quieter winter months, making it an ideal time to visit in terms of both crowds and costs. Tourist numbers are moderate, so you can enjoy popular attractions without the overwhelming crowds. Prices for hotels and flights tend to be more affordable compared to the summer peak, though not as low as in winter. Many hotels offer better value with shoulder season rates. 

What to do in Paris in October

With the city in deep autumn, you’ll find there tons to do in the city. Here are some ideas, or see our guide to the best things to do in France. 

Visit the Musée Carnavalet

If you're into history, the Musée Carnavalet is a must-see. It's all about the history of Paris and has recently been renovated, so it feels fresh and exciting. The cozy vibe of the museum makes it the perfect place to escape any autumn rain. Plus, you get to explore its incredible collection—everything from ancient artifacts to art that captures the essence of Paris over the centuries—without the usual summer crowds.

Vendanges de Montmartre wine harvest festival

In early October, Montmartre hosts a charming wine harvest festival. It's a great way to get a taste of local Parisian culture, with wine tastings, delicious food, and live music all around. Montmartre's vineyards may be small, but this festival brings a big dose of fun.

Journées des Plantes flower show at Chantilly

If you’re into gardening or just love beautiful landscapes, head over to the Château de Chantilly for the Journées des Plantes. This flower show is all about autumn plants, and you can admire rare flowers, attend workshops, and even buy a few for your own garden. The setting—Chantilly's stunning castle and grounds—makes the whole experience even more magical.

Attend a show at the historic Théâtre des Bouffes du Nord

For a cultural experience, October is a great time to catch a performance at the historic Théâtre des Bouffes du Nord. Known for its intimate atmosphere, this theater has a special charm. Whether you’re into classic plays or contemporary productions, their lineup is always worth checking out.

Paris Manga Sci-Fi Show

If you’re into manga, anime, or sci-fi, don’t miss the Paris Manga Sci-Fi Show, usually held in October. It’s packed with exhibitions, cosplay contests, gaming areas, and chances to meet some big names from the world of comics and animation. It’s a fun way to see a different side of Parisian culture.

Plan your trip to Paris in October

Planning a trip to Paris? Start by exploring our curated itineraries, featuring the city’s must-see landmarks like the iconic Eiffel Tower and the charming hidden gems of Montmartre. Not sure where to stay? Our detailed articles offer insights into the best neighborhoods, with advice from local experts. For an in-depth look at Paris and beyond, don’t forget to pick up 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.