Planning to visit Paris in autumn 2026? September, October and November are wonderful months to explore the French capital, with colorful autumn foliage, a packed cultural calendar, seasonal events and generally fewer crowds than in summer.
In this guide, we’ve selected the best things to do in Paris in autumn 2026, from beautiful parks and gardens in their fall colors to world-famous museums, temporary exhibitions, covered passages, cozy cafés and unique experiences.
Autumn is also an exciting time for events in Paris. The new cultural season gets underway, bringing major exhibitions, festivals, concerts and other events across the city. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying longer, there is plenty to discover in autumn.
Below, you’ll find our favorite autumn activities, events and places to visit in Paris, along with practical tips for the weather, crowds and what to pack.
• Fun to do: Tickets Cruise on the Seine by Bateaux Mouches (1h) →
• Nice combo: Tickets Louvre Museum + Eiffel Tower 2nd Floor or Summit →
1. Autumn in Paris: discover what to do in autumn 2026
Paris has over 130 museums and fall is a great season to visit some of them. La rentrée is also the beginning of a new cultural season in Paris, with the launch of many new exhibitions. Are you planning to visit several museums in Paris? The Paris Museum Pass offers access to 60 museums in and around Paris. You then have direct and unlimited access for 2, 4 or 6 days.
There are also many fun events during the months of October, November and December in Paris such as Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre (7 to 11 October 2026), Paris Photo (12 to 15 November 2026) or the Halloween Festival in Disneyland (September 26 to November 1, 2026).
• Best Exhibitions in Paris 2026-2027: What’s On & Where →
• Best Events in Paris 2026: Events Calendar & Things to Do →
2. Beautiful autumn colours in the parks and gardens of Paris
Take an autumn walk in Paris. Especially the parks & gardens are at their best then. Stroll around Jardin des Tuileries, Jardin du Luxembourg or Jardin du Palais-Royal (hotspot from the Netflix series Emily in Paris) and enjoy the beautiful fall colors and the falling of the leaves. Take a takeway espresso and take a seat in one of the charming chairs and enjoy the last warm rays of the sun. Especially in the month of October it can still be pleasant weather to stay there.
Some more parks and gardens to enjoy autumn in Paris: Place des Vosges, Parc Monceau, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, Parc Floral, Promenade Plantée, Bois de Vincennes & Bois de Boulogne. That time of the year again! Don’t forget the warm roasted chestnuts (available at the entrance of most parks).
3. Walk through the secret shopping passages
Looking for a piece of authentic Paris in the fall? Visit the beautiful covered passages of Paris. About 20 shopping arcades remain, almost all from the 19th century. With nice (book) shops, restaurants and even theaters. Most of the covered shopping arcades in Paris are almost all around the Grands Boulevards and so are easy to visit via a stroll. You can also opt for a guided tour with a fun route through the passages of Paris. Ideal for a rainy autumn day. A must to visit the passages in Paris during the autumn period.
• Read also: 15 Best Covered Passages in Paris with Map + Walking Tour →
4. Enjoy a hot chocolate
There is no better time to drink a chocolate chaud than in the fall. One of the most famous spots in the city for a hot chocolate is Angelina tea room, with its beautiful Belle Epoque style on Rue De Rivoli. But you can also enjoy a delicious chocolate milk at Ladurée, in addition to the famous macarons. Another of our favorite places is Café de Flore in Saint-Germain-Des-Près. One of the oldest cafes in Paris and formerly a meeting point for artists, writers and philosophers of the 1920s.
5. Visit the famous cemeteries
Especially in autumn, the cemeteries in Paris are very beautiful because of the beautiful autumn colours. Be sure to visit the famous Père-Lachaise cemetery, the largest cemetery in Paris. Without a doubt one of the top 10 sights in Paris. A quiet and dreamy place that attracts more than 3 million visitors every year. But the lesser-known cemeteries such as Cimetière du Montparnasse and Cimetière de Montmartre are also definitely worth a visit in the fall.
6. Discover the Catacombs of Paris
Discover the haunted side of Paris with a visit to the catacombs. In the 18th century, the cemeteries in Paris were overcrowded and there was no room to expand. As a result, six million bodies were exhumed and moved underground to various tunnels that lie beneath the city. Go underground and get scared in the maze. Very nice to do during the autumn holidays and during Halloween!
7. Follow a workshop making macarons
A day when the weather is a bit less? Experience Paris a little differently and follow a macaron making workshop. You can buy this French specialty on every street corner and Paris is known as the macaron capital of the world. You will learn how to make different macarons from an expert in a cozy workshop and afterwards you can simply take your creations and recipes home with you. Of course a lot of fun to do!
• Read also: 8 Best Macarons in Paris: Ladurée to Pierre Hermé + workshop →
Paris in the fall is very nice and there is a lot to experience. Autumn is also the culinary season in France. The time of vintage festivals, various food markets and the high season of many typical French products. Enjoy autumn in Paris 2026!
FAQ about visiting Paris in the fall and what you need to know
1. Is autumn a good time to visit Paris?
Yes! Autumn (September to November) is one of the most charming and romantic seasons in Paris. Think golden leaves, crisp air, fewer crowds, and cozy cafés.
2. What’s the weather like in Paris in the fall?
Expect mild to cool temperatures. September is usually pleasant (around 18–22°C), while October and November get chillier (10–15°C), with more rain. Pack layers, a scarf, and an umbrella.
3. Are tourist attractions still open in autumn?
Absolutely! All the major attractions, like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and Versailles, remain open. Plus, with fewer crowds, you can enjoy them at a more relaxed pace.
4. What should I pack for a fall trip to Paris?
Think layered outfits, a light waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and something stylish for dinners or photos. Parisians dress chic, even in the rain.
5. Are there any seasonal events or festivals in the fall?
Yes! Don’t miss the Nuit Blanche (contemporary art night in October), the Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival, and Paris Autumn Festival (a mix of theater, music, and art). The city also starts to feel festive by late November.
6. Is Paris less crowded in autumn?
Definitely. After the summer rush, autumn brings a quieter vibe. September still sees some tourists, but October and November are much calmer, making it perfect for museum visits and leisurely strolls.
7. Where can I see the best fall foliage in Paris?
Head to Jardin du Luxembourg, Parc Monceau, Tuileries Garden, or Bois de Vincennes. The city’s parks and tree-lined boulevards become magical with orange, yellow, and red leaves.
8. Can I still enjoy outdoor cafés and terraces?
Yes, many terraces remain open with heaters and blankets as the weather cools down. It’s part of the Parisian charm to sip a hot drink while watching autumn life go by.
9. Are prices lower in autumn?
Generally, yes, especially in October and November, when you’ll find better deals on hotels and flights compared to the summer high season.
10. What are the best indoor activities if it rains?
Explore museums, cozy up in literary cafés, enjoy a wine tasting, or catch a show at the Opéra Garnier or a jazz club. Paris has no shortage of warm, welcoming indoor spots.
