Paris Weather in April: What to Expect & How to Pack
Paris weather in April marks the moments when the City of Light finally starts to shake off its winter gloom, but before you start picturing endless sunshine and picnic-perfect afternoons along the Seine, you need to know one thing — April in Paris can be somewhat unpredictable.
Spring is technically here, but Paris hasn’t fully committed to warmer temperatures yet. Some days feel like a sneak peek of summer, while others remind you that winter was just a short time ago. One minute, you’re strolling through Jardin du Luxembourg in a light sweater, and the next, you’re huddled under a café awning waiting out a sudden drizzle.
But despite its weather mood swings, April is one of the best months to visit Paris. The city is in full bloom, café terraces are buzzing with life again, and daylight hours are long enough to pack plenty of sightseeing into your itinerary. Plus, the summer tourist crowds haven’t fully arrived yet, making it a sweet spot between the winter low season and peak travel months.
That said, packing for Paris in April requires strategy. If you’re not prepared for the city’s temperature swings and sporadic rain, you could end up either freezing in the mornings or sweating by the afternoon. And while the idea of Paris in spring sounds romantic, the reality is that the wrong outfit can make or break your experience.
So, what exactly should you expect from Paris weather in April, and how do you pack like a pro? Let’s break it down.
Paris Weather in April: A True Mixed Bag
April in Paris is unpredictable in the best and worst ways. While it’s noticeably milder than March, it’s not consistently warm. Some days will feel like a sneak peek of summer, while others will have you wondering if winter is making a comeback.
Average Temperatures in Paris in April
April sees a steady rise in temperatures, with daytime highs averaging 60°F (16°C) to 65°F (18°C). Mornings and evenings still hold onto a chill, hovering around 45°F (7°C) to 50°F (10°C). It’s not thick winter coat weather anymore, but you’ll still want layers — especially if you’re out early for a baguette run or heading home late after a long apéro.
While these temperatures may sound mild, the “feels like” temperature depends on wind and sun exposure. On sunny, wind-free days, it usually feels warm enough to ditch your jacket. But on cloudy, breezy afternoons, you’ll definitely want that extra layer.
April Rain: A Parisian Classic
Paris is famous for its pop-up rain showers — one of the few things the city delivers on with absolute consistency. In April, it’s the type of rain that comes and goes quickly, often arriving unannounced and disappearing just as fast. On average, Paris sees about 10 to 14 rainy days in April, but these aren’t necessarily full days of downpours. You’ll likely experience light drizzles, quick bursts of rain, and cloudy stretches that threaten showers but never fully commit.
Locals don’t stress about it, in part because it’s such a regular occurrence throughout most of the year. They either carry a compact umbrella or duck into the nearest café for a glass of wine until it passes. Your best bet? Be prepared but don’t let it dictate your plans — most April showers are more of a minor inconvenience than a trip-ruiner.
More Sunlight, More Exploring
One of the best things about visiting Paris in April is the longer daylight hours. Thanks to the daylight savings time switch at the end of March, clocks spring forward an hour, instantly pushing sunset later in the evening. By the end of the month, sunset stretches past 8:30 PM, meaning more time to explore, linger at an outdoor café, or stroll along the Seine after dinner, without feeling like your day is cut short.
If you’re someone who loves squeezing in as much as possible, April is chef’s kiss — you’ll have more daylight to hit multiple sights in one day without the overwhelming summer crowds. Whether it’s fitting in an extra museum visit, catching the warm sunbeams of golden hour peeking through the winding streets of Montmartre, or enjoying a leisurely post-dinner walk through the city’s quiet streets, the extended daylight hours make a huge difference in how much you can experience.
What to Pack for Paris in April
Packing for Paris in April is all about versatility: you want to be prepared for chilly mornings, mild afternoons, and the occasional surprise shower, without overpacking. The goal? Layer smart, stay comfortable, and blend in with effortless Parisian style.
Clothing: The Layering Formula
For Women:
Trench coat or lightweight jacket – A spring classic that’s practical for both rain and shine.
Mid-weight sweaters & cardigans – Ideal for mornings that start out cool but warm up by afternoon.
Breathable blouses & long-sleeve tops – Perfect for layering under sweaters or wearing solo when it’s mild.
Straight-leg jeans, tailored trousers, or midi skirts – Comfortable for walking but polished enough for Paris.
Packable rain jacket – If you don’t want to carry an umbrella, this will save you during an unexpected drizzle.
For Men:
A lightweight trench or water-resistant jacket – Stylish, functional, and a must for unpredictable weather.
Crewneck sweaters or thin knits – Easy to layer and won’t feel bulky when the sun comes out.
Button-ups or fitted long-sleeve shirts – A go-to for spring layering that transitions easily from day to night.
Dark jeans or slim-fit trousers – Versatile and comfortable for exploring the city.
A light windbreaker – Good to have on hand for breezier days.
Shoes: Comfort Meets Function
Paris is a walking city, so comfortable shoes are non-negotiable. April’s occasional rain and cobblestone streets make smart footwear choices especially important.
Waterproof ankle boots – Perfect for rainy days and still stylish enough for a dinner out.
Minimalist sneakers – Sleek, neutral sneakers work for both sightseeing and casual dinners.
Loafers or ballet flats – A good option for drier days when you want something a little more polished.
Skip open-toed shoes – April is still too unpredictable for sandals, and wet feet = a bad day.
Accessories That Will Save You
A scarf – Parisians love them, and you’ll appreciate the extra warmth in the mornings.
Compact umbrella – A must-have since Parisian rain showers can be unpredictable.
Sunglasses – When the sun does come out, it’s surprisingly bright.
A crossbody or tote bag – Practical, stylish, and easier to keep close in busy areas.
April in Paris: What to Do (No Matter the Weather)
April is when Paris truly comes back to life. The gray, dreary winter days are behind, and the city’s outdoor spaces start filling with people eager to soak up the fresh air and longer daylight hours. Café terraces reclaim the sidewalks, flower markets overflow with vibrant spring blooms, and the city’s green spaces become lively with locals enjoying their first proper taste of warmer weather.
But let’s be honest… April’s weather isn’t always predictable. Some days are picture-perfect, with sun-drenched afternoons and ideal temperatures for long strolls through Paris’s parks. Other days may bring unexpected rain showers or overcast skies. Fortunately, Paris is a city that shines in any weather. Whether the sun is out or a drizzle sets in, there’s no shortage of things to do.
On a Sunny Day:
April is one of the best times to experience Paris outdoors. The city’s gardens and tree-lined boulevards are in full bloom, creating picture-perfect backdrops for exploring. It’s the kind of weather that makes you want to slow down and enjoy Paris at a relaxed pace, whether that means wandering through historic streets, sipping wine at a café, or picnicking by the Seine.
Stroll through Paris’s gardens and parks – Spring brings a wash of color to Paris’s green spaces, making them some of the most beautiful spots in the city this time of year. Jardin du Luxembourg is especially stunning in April, with its manicured lawns, fountains, and blossoming trees. Jardin des Tuileries, between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, is another must-visit — perfect for a mid-afternoon break between sightseeing. If you want a more local, off-the-beaten-path experience, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont in the 19th arrondissement offers rolling hills, a picturesque lake, and breathtaking city views.
Explore Paris in full bloom – Paris in April is a floral paradise. Cherry blossoms are at their peak, creating picture-perfect scenes at Parc de Sceaux, Square Jean XXIII behind Notre-Dame, and around the Eiffel Tower. Wisteria drapes over historic buildings in Montmartre, while magnolia trees brighten up the city’s hidden courtyards. If you’re a photography lover, this is one of the best months to capture Paris in all its springtime glory.
Enjoy a Seine-side picnic – When the weather is mild, there’s no better way to soak in Paris than by grabbing a bottle of wine, a fresh baguette, and some cheese from a local fromagerie and finding a spot along the Seine. The banks near Île Saint-Louis or Port de la Tournelle (with a view of Notre-Dame) are perfect for a relaxing afternoon. The Canal Saint-Martin in the Right Bank also offers a great spot to sit and people-watch while enjoying the fresh air.
Take a day trip to Giverny – April marks the reopening of Claude Monet’s gardens in Giverny, a must-visit for art and nature lovers. Located just over an hour outside of Paris, Monet’s famous water lily ponds and colorful flower beds start coming to life this month, making it one of the best times of year to visit before the heavy crowds of late spring and summer.
Café-hop in Saint-Germain-des-Prés or Le Marais – With terraces finally reclaiming their space after winter, Parisians fully embrace the art of people-watching with a glass of wine or coffee in hand. Saint-Germain-des-Prés, home to legendary cafés like Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots, is an excellent neighborhood to soak up the atmosphere. For a trendier, more local vibe, head to Le Marais, where spots like Le Petit Fer à Cheval or Carette offer great terraces for whiling away an afternoon.
When It’s Cloudy or Raining:
Paris isn’t a city that slows down when it rains, and you shouldn’t either. If the clouds roll in or showers hit, lean into the cozy side of Paris — duck into a museum, explore a historic passageway, or settle into a warm, dimly lit café for an afternoon of people-watching.
Get lost in Paris’s world-class museums – April’s occasional rainy days make for the perfect excuse to spend hours exploring Paris’s unparalleled museum scene. The Louvre and Musée d’Orsay are obvious choices, but if you want something less crowded, head to the Musée de l’Orangerie, home to Monet’s Water Lilies, or the Musée Rodin, which offers both stunning sculpture collections and a peaceful garden (rain or shine). For modern and contemporary art lovers, the Centre Pompidou or the Musée Picasso in Le Marais are fantastic options.
Wander through Paris’s historic covered passages – If rain threatens to dampen your outdoor plans, Paris’s 19th-century covered passages offer a hidden-world alternative. These elegant, glass-roofed arcades are filled with antique bookshops, boutique stores, charming cafés, and vintage shops. The most famous is Galerie Vivienne, a beautifully restored passage with mosaic-tiled floors and a timeless Parisian feel. Passage des Panoramas, one of the city’s oldest passages, is a great place to browse unique shops and grab a bite to eat at a tucked-away wine bar.
Spend an afternoon in a classic Parisian café – Rainy days are the perfect excuse to embrace one of Paris’s greatest traditions: lingering in a café for hours. Find a cozy corner, order a café crème or a glass of wine, and watch the city move around you. Some of the best spots for this include Café de la Paix near Opéra Garnier, Le Procope in the Latin Quarter (one of Paris’s oldest cafés), or the literary-favorite La Closerie des Lilas, where Hemingway and Picasso once hung out.
Shop in Paris’s famous department stores and boutiques – If sightseeing is interrupted by rain, Paris’s shopping scene provides plenty of indoor entertainment. The iconic Galeries Lafayette and Le Bon Marché offer not just luxury fashion and gourmet food halls but also incredible architecture. For a more local shopping experience, Le Marais is home to concept stores like Merci and French designer boutiques, while Saint-Germain-des-Prés has classic Parisian brands like Sandro, Maje, and Sézane.
Experience Paris’s underground secrets – If you’re in the mood for something offbeat, use a rainy afternoon to explore the Paris Catacombs, a haunting but fascinating network of underground tunnels lined with bones from centuries past. Alternatively, visit the wine cellars of Les Caves du Louvre, an interactive wine museum where you can learn about French wine history and finish with a guided tasting.
Final Thoughts: Is April a Good Time to Visit Paris?
Yes — but only if you’re ready to roll with the weather. April in Paris is beautiful, vibrant, and full of possibility, but it’s also unpredictable. You’ll get more daylight, fewer crowds than summer, and a taste of springtime Paris at its best, but you’ll also need to be prepared for a few chilly mornings and the occasional rain shower.
The key to enjoying Paris weather in April? Dress smart, pack layers, carry an umbrella, and don’t overplan. When the sun comes out, you’ll be glad you have extra time to sit on a terrasse and soak it all in.
