Weather in Paris in October: What to Expect and Packing Tips (2024)

Although the weather in Paris in October may be a bit cooler than September and may even serve up the occasional chilly or rainy/blustery day, it generally feels close to perfect.

You'll see lots of colorful late-blooming flowers in the city's parks, and even the first hues of golden automn foliage on the trees.

Planning To Visit Paris in October?

If you're visiting Paris this month, consider booking tours, cruises, and other activities as soon as possible to make sure of getting your top choices.

Top Paris attractions & experiences:

Most popular Paris destinations this month:


You'll also begin to feel a shift to cooler weather. October marks a transition periodas the last memories of Paris's summer heat fade away. Crisper temperatures announce the beginning of fall.

But here's what you should also know: October weatherin Paris still serves up plenty of lovely, sunny, and even warm days.

So you'll need to pack layers to prepare you for whatever version of October weather greets you when you wake up each morning. We'll go into more detail about what to pack later in this article.

You should also plan a mix of indoor and outdoor activities for your visit. When October's cooler fall weather makes itself felt, spend time at museum exhibitions, concerts in historic churches, covered markets, and cozy bistros where you can sip hot chocolate and enjoy a steaming bowl of onion soup.

But also schedule a outdoor activities where you can soak up some sun while exploring the city - perhaps a cheese, wine, and pastry tour of artistic Montmartre, or a bike tour of lesser-known gems in the Latin Quarter, Marais, and Saint-Germain neighborhoods.

So keep reading to find out everything you need to know about October weather in Paris, packing tips, top things to do in October, and even recommendations about where to stay this month.

Article contents:

  • Paris weather temperature ranges for October - PlusWhat to Really Expect
  • How much rain and snow to expect in Paris during October
  • What to pack for your October visit to Paris
  • Should you visit Paris during October? Or wait for a warmer month?
  • Activities for all types of October weather in Paris
  • Where to stay in Paris during October

Top photo: Palais du Luxembourg in Luxembourg Garden in beautiful October weather in Paris - Photo: AdobeStock

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What Is Paris Weather in October Really Like?

Weather in Paris in October: What to Expect and Packing Tips (1)

Although you can expect a number of warm sunny days in the 70s and occasionally even the low 80s (low to upper 20s Celsius), you'll also see and feel the transition to cooler fall temperatures during October, along with periods of cloudy skies and showers. Fortunately, periods of rain seldom last long this month, but nights can get chilly.

Of course, weather patterns differ each year, but if you visit Paris for a week or more during October, you're likely to experience a little of everything this month offers, from warm sunny days to cold rain, wind, and perhaps (although unlikely) even snow.

Paris Temperatures in October: Average Highs & Lows

Here's a quick look at what October weather in Paris looks like on Fahrenheit (F) and Celsius (C) degree scales for average daily high and low temperatures during during the month over the past decade:

  • Average October high temperatures (typically during daytime): 59°F (15°C) to 68°F (20°C)
  • Average October low temperatures (typically at night): 45°F (7°C) to 53°F (12°C)

Remember, these are averages. They're useful for comparing one month with another - helpful if you're trying to decide the best time to travel to Paris as well as the types of activities to plan, but less so for planning what to pack.

However, they are definitely not an October weather forecast for Paris. If you're making a packing list, they also don't show you the extreme weather conditions that you might encounter and may want to consider when packing.

For that kind of information, check the October high and low temperature ranges in the following section.

Weather Statistics for October in Paris: High & LowTemperature Ranges

Weather in Paris in October: What to Expect and Packing Tips (2)

To find "worst case" information about what October weather in Paris might be like, check theseranges of daily highs and lows during the past decade:

  • Range of daily high temperatures in October: 43°F to 84°F (14°C to 29°C)
  • Range of daily low temperatures in October: 34°F to 64° F (1°C to 18°C)

Notice the rather large temperature variationof over 40degrees (F) for daily highs and 30 degrees (F) for daily lows.

Now check e record-breaking temperatures for the past 3+ decades, and when they occurred:

  • Highest October temperature (1991-present): 84°F (29°C) in 2023
  • Lowest October temperature (1991-present): 27°F (-3°C) in 1997

So to sum up October weather: Most of the time, it will feel warm and balmy during the day and chilly at night.

But when planning activities and making your packing list, you need to consider the possibility of daytime temperatures in the "hot" range - so throw a short-sleeved t-shirt into your bag - and cold-to-freezing on possibly some daysand nights, which means bringing a medium weight jacket or coat, 1-2 sweaters (cashmere insulates well), and warm gloves and hat.

Of course, Paris's climate is unpredictable from one year to the next(and on a daily basis) - so be prepared for a range of October weather conditions.

Sun and Clouds during October: What to Expect

Weather in Paris in October: What to Expect and Packing Tips (3)

Don't let the brilliant blue sky in this photo of the picturesque Mouzaia neighborhood fool you. This day, a Sunday, was picture-perfect but by the next day, the sky had turned gray and overcast. Dramatic day-to-day changes characterize October weather.

Days begin to feel noticeably shorter this month compared with September. At the beginning of the month, you'll still experiencealmostfull 12 hours of daylight - 11:37 hours, to be exact - but that number drops rapidly as the month progresses. By the end of the month, October offers only 9.53 hours of daylight. You'll feel the difference.

The shift from Daylight Savings time to Regular time toward the end of the exaggerates the feeling of loss, as sunset shifts from around 6:30 pm (18:30) to 5:30 pm (17:30).

On the positive side,October tends to be a sunny month in Paris, with a daily average of 10hours, 52 minutes.

How Much Rain Does Paris Get in October?

Weather in Paris in October: What to Expect and Packing Tips (4)

Paris records about 2.6 inches (67 mm) of precipitation on average during October.

However, the year-to-year variation in total rainfall during October can be extreme. During the past 10 years, the October total has ranged from a barely perceptible two-tenths of aninch (5 mm) to a whopping 5.5 inches (141 mm).

Most years, the rain comes in the form of brief showers that clear up quickly rather than steady, long-lasting rain. Octobers during the past 10 hears have experienced anywhere between 3 and 17 days when rain fell.

Paris can be breezy in October but this generally isn't a windy month. However, storms can hit Paris during any month(including July and August, when you least expect it) and when this happens, you may encounter a few days (usually no more that 3-4) of cold, rainy, miserable weather. Pack with this possibility in mind.

If you're planning day trips from Paris, you may be wondering about the weather at nearby attractions such asVersailles Palace, Giverny, and Disneyland Paris during October.The good news is that the temperature, rain, and other conditions will be very similar to Paris for most day trip locations. Bring an umbrella or rain hat, or be prepared to dash inside if a quick shower hits.

The exceptionto this destinations along the Normandy Coast. If you're planning a trip to the World War II beaches in Normandy or to Mont Saint-Michel, expect that the temperature may feel much colder due to the possibility of strong coastal winds and even rain.

That's not a reason to avoid going (in fact, both are wonderful in October) - just bring a warm jacket, scarf, and gloves.

What to Pack for October Weather in Paris

Weather in Paris in October: What to Expect and Packing Tips (5)

Paris weather often changes rapidly, so pack for a range of temperatures and conditions. Be prepared to dress warmly on cold or rainy days, but in layers you can shed if the temperature soars.

In addition to your core wardrobe of tops, bottoms,comfortable walking shoes, and under garments, these are the essentials and options to consider for October:

  • A warm jacket, perhaps in a longer length - water-resistant is ideal. You'll see Parisians wearing practical dark-colored insulated jackets including puffer jacketssuch as these from Amazon.
  • One or two sweaters in case to layer under your jacket, especially if you plan to take a Seine River sightseeing cruise or open-top hop-on hop-off bus where the temperature will feel at least 10 degrees colder. You can also wear just the sweater on warmer days. Cashmere is ideal for keeping you toasty outdoors while not making you sweat inside.
  • A pair of comfortable ankle boots and/or your favorite walking shoes.Bring both warm and lighter-weight socks.
  • A warm scarf, gloves,and a warm hat are useful on cooler days and chilly nights. If you live in a warm climate such as the southern U.S., Mexico, Brazil, or Australia and don't have these items in your regular wardrobe, don't worry. You can buy what you need once you reach Paris. Monoprix offers nice quality items at affordable prices.
  • A rain hat or small collapsible umbrella will be useful on rainy days.

Pro Tip: Right before you start packing for your trip, check the 7-day Paris weather forecast in case of any surprises. Here's the forecast in both Fahrenheit and Celsius:

PARIS WEATHER
PARIS WEATHER

Does October Weather Make This a Good Month to Visit?

Weather in Paris in October: What to Expect and Packing Tips (6)

Yes, absolutely! Usually October weather in Paris is quite pleasant, making this one of the best months for a visit. If you do encounter chilly or rainy weather, it's unlikely to last long this month.

Here are more benefits to visiting Paris in October:

  • Fantastic exhibitions at many Paris museums and a huge lineup of concerts, opera, and ballet
  • You're likely to experience many sunny days when you can sit outside at a cafe terrace and enjoy a glass of your favorite wine or a steaming cup of hot chocolate.
  • You'll love the golden foliage and beautiful flowers in all the city parks, plus if you're in Paris at the end of the month, you'll get to see some fun decorations and perhaps even costumed Halloween party-goers on the 31st
  • While popular attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Musée d'Orsay will not be anywhere close to empty, you'll avoid the biggest summer crowds

Weather-Proof Things to Do in Paris in October

Weather in Paris in October: What to Expect and Packing Tips (7)

Recommended activities for staying warm and dry while sightseeing in Paris during October weather:

  • Moulin Rouge - Enjoy an evening of entertainment and champagne inthis famous Paris cabaret - or choose the gourmet dinner option
  • Hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour bus - Stay warm and dry while you ride on the covered upper deck or enclosed lower deck
  • Paris (or Versailles or Giverny) by bike - The perfect way to see fall color (plus a lot more) at these iconic attractions
  • Seine River dinner cruise - Savor a gourmet meal in a cozy glass-enclosed boat while seeing famous sights along the river (this is one of our favorite super-cosy rainy-day activities, although of course it's equally nice on a sunny day)
  • Reims & Champagne Tasting Day Trip - Taste a variety of Champagnes and French food, visit vineyards and the historic Reims Cathedral, and learn about how Champagne is produced on this special small-group day tour with transportation from Paris
  • Paris Museums - You won't care what the weather outside is like when you use a Paris Museum pass for free admission to the Louvre, Orsay, Versailles, and almost 60 other famous Paris museums and attractions

More Fun Things to Do & See in Paris in October


Where to Stay in Paris during October

As you know by now, October weather in Paris can unpredictable but beautiful, sunny days dominate - most of the time. e chilly and rainyso a smart strategy is to stay in central Paris neighborhoods close to top attractions, lots of restaurants, lovely parks, and convenient metro stations.On warmer days, stroll by the Seine River and the outdoor markets.

With these criteria in mind, we recommend staying in these top locations during October:

  • Latin Quarter - Enjoy fall foliage in the beautiful Jardin des Plantes and Luxembourg Garden, pay your respect to French heroes (including American Josephine Baker, honored for her contributions to the Résistance during World War II), and explore the Rue Mouffetard Market Street
  • Saint Germain neighborhood - Choose the popular Saint Germain neighborhood on the Left Bank of the Seine River, and you'll be close to famous bistros such as Les Deux Magots and Cafe de Flore, fabulous shopping (Winter Sales!), the Orsay Museum, and evening concerts at the medieval Saint-Germain-des-Prés church
  • Montmartre - Enjoy fall foliage and the village-like vibe of this wonderful neighborhood perched high on the hills overlooking the city

Use this hotel booking map to find more hotels and apartments for your travel dates:

Check out the newest Paris hotels


More about Paris in October

  • Top October Events in Paris
  • Paris Weather during October
  • Concerts in Paris during October

Where to Get Paris Weather Predictions

Want current Paris weather predictions? This is our favorite French source: Meteoblue

Find Out More About Weather in Paris

Paris Weather & Packing Tips by Month

Jan- Feb - March - April - May - June-July - Aug - Sept - Oct - Nov - Dec

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More Information for Your Paris Visit in October

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Weather in Paris in October: What to Expect and Packing Tips (2024)

FAQs

Weather in Paris in October: What to Expect and Packing Tips? ›

Since October can bring chilly temperatures and damp and cold days, you will want to pack lots of layers, to wear under sweaters, a blazer, or even a trench coat. I find it much better to layer up and take off during the day as needed versus being cold all day.

How to pack for October in Paris? ›

Since October can bring chilly temperatures and damp and cold days, you will want to pack lots of layers, to wear under sweaters, a blazer, or even a trench coat. I find it much better to layer up and take off during the day as needed versus being cold all day.

Is Paris very cold in October? ›

October weather in Paris is very cool with the occasional shower spread over the month. Temperatures are usually in the mid-teens, but nights can get quite chilly so make sure to pack a few jackets to stay warm in the evening. Paris weather in October is influenced by its location in the north of central France.

What time does it get dark in Paris in October? ›

In October, the sunrise in Paris is at around 8 – 8.30 am, and the sunset – is around 6.30 – 7.30 pm.

Can you wear white jeans in October in Paris? ›

French women continue to wear light-wash jeans in autumn. Just add a woollen blazer and boots. As we approach chillier seasons, pair lightly-hued denim with a monochrome top half pairing. Franny shows how to make white denim work for the transitional seasons.

How should I dress to go out in Paris? ›

For most restaurants and bars, the dress code is dressed-up casual. So, if you do decide to go with a cocktail dress, the norm is for it to be accompanied by tights and a sweater/light jacket. This isn't because Parisians are against showing skin; it's just not typical for this type of setting.

Is the Louvre crowded in October? ›

Of course if you are visiting Paris, the Louvre is a must!

Is October rainy season in France? ›

Rainfall increases in October, especially in the northern parts of France. The north can expect around 50-80mm (2-3 inches) of rainfall, while southern regions may receive 40-60mm (1.5-2.5 inches) of rain during the month. It is advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat during your visit.

How many outfits should I pack for a week long trip? ›

Using a carry-on is more convenient and limits your space to squeeze in unnecessary extras. Follow the 5-4-3-2-1 rule. For a week-long trip, pack up to five tops, four bottoms, three accessories, two pairs of shoes, and one swimsuit. Lay out what you think you'll need, then edit.

Does it rain in Paris in October? ›

In Paris, it rains an average of 15 days throughout the month of October, with the city experiencing 2.2 inches of precipitation on average.

How busy is Paris in late October? ›

Fall is the perfect time to travel, and Paris is no exception. I'm lucky to have been to Paris five times in September or October. There are fewer tourists in Paris in the fall than the crowded summer months. From public transportation to walking along the Seine, you'll appreciate the city with a few less people.

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