There’s nothing like springtime in Paris. Cherry blossoms are in bloom, their delicate petals drifting down like confetti onto the sidewalks. Bright tulips stand tall in their well-tended beds, adding bold pops of color to the lush greenery. Leafy, tree-lined streets soften the edges of Paris’s intricate architecture, blending nature and design in the most elegant way. The city comes to life in spring, literally.
The weather is pleasant and mild, making it the perfect time to explore the city’s parks, streets, and cultural gems without the overwhelming summer crowds. Spring in Paris invites you to slow down, soak up the sun, and experience the city in full bloom.
From blossoming gardens to rooftop views, here’s how you can enjoy the magic of Paris in its most special season.
5 Best things to do in Paris in Springtime:
1. Jardin du Luxembourg
Take a break from the bustling city streets and enjoy a leisurely stroll in the Jardin du Luxembourg. Spanning 25 hectares (60+ acres) of formal English and French gardens, embrace the spring season in this lush greenspace.
Wander through the towering geometric forest, walk along the Esplanade de Monneville or explore the maze-like paths to find a familiar American face.
Pull up a bench in the shade and relax in the company of bright poppies and tulips. Or turn your break into an indulgent experience with a quick stop at Boulangerie Moderne, a few streets away on Rue des Fossés Saint-Jacques. A sunny day and a savory croque monsieur is a match made in heaven.
2. Springtime Cherry Blossoms
Can you think of anything more synonymous with spring than cherry blossoms? These blooming beauties can be found throughout the city from mid- March to late-April. Keep an eye out for those telltale pops of pink!
Find thick bunches of cotton-candy colored petals in front of Shakespeare and Company bookstore in the 5th arrondissement. Get swept up in a sea of pink in the Nelson Mandela Garden, where blossoms line the main walkway to the Westfield Forum des Halles mall. Take a seat under one of the branches and watch the petals gently rain down.
Or simply look for evidence collecting along the sidewalks. The piles of petals will let you know you’re close.
3. Printemps Haussman
See what’s in style this printemps at Printemps Haussmann, a luxury French department store. While perfect for a shopping spree, don’t stress about the price tags. The best parts of this department store can be enjoyed for free.
Head towards the back of the 5th floor of the women’s store (Printemps Mode), to see the large art nouvelle floral stained glass piece.
Continue upstairs to the 6th floor for the glass cupola, a stunning stained glass dome that covers the entire ceiling.
Climb one more flight of stairs to the 7th floor for a small rooftop terrace with fantastic views of the Eiffel Tower, Opera Garnier, and Notre Dame.
For 360 views of the city, cross the footbridge to the Beauty & Home store (Beauté-Maison) and take the elevator to the 9th floor. Enjoy French luxury without spending a single euro.
4. Queen’s Hamlet @ Versailles
Swap the city scenes for a rustic retreat at the Queen’s Hamlet. Located in the gardens of Versailles, this model village once served as Marie Antoinette’s hideaway from palace life. Featuring lush English gardens, cottages, a mill, watchtower, and man-made lake, immerse yourself in her 18th century cottagecore fantasy.
Make the experience extra-special with a visit in spring. See the Queen’s cottage come to life. Bulbs of irises crown the thatched roof, thick vines of ivy and drooping wisteria adorn the siding, and potted daffodils decorate the balcony. Explore the growing gardens to see rows of daffodils, tulips and the beginnings of a summer harvest.
Or tour the English gardens to see a palette of green that would make Pantone jealous. It’s a sight straight out of a fairy tale.
5. Musée D’Orsay
Visit to the Musée D’Orsay for a fresh perspective on spring florals. Located on the Left Bank of the Seine, this converted railway station houses paintings, sculptures, and furniture from France’s top artists.
Admire the works of the Impressionist masters on the 5th floor, their pastel, floral motifs and scenes fitting for the season. See Monet’s pretty pastel works up close, his love of water lilies, lilacs, and poppies evident in every brush stroke.
Take in a unique view of Paris through the clock window. It’s a popular selfie spot too for good reason.
Head downstairs to the Art Nouveau rooms for a collection of furniture, stained, glass and deco inspired by the flora and fauna of the natural world. Perfect for some spring decor inspiration.
Fin
Spring transforms Paris into a city of color and quiet beauty. Something about the new season brings an indescribable freshness to the city and an overwhelming sense of calm that must be experienced in-person.
Whether you’re wandering through historic gardens, chasing cherry blossoms, or simply enjoying a quiet moment in a café, there’s something special around every corner. With fewer crowds and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect season to experience the city like a local.
What do you think are the best things to do in Paris in spring?
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