Will Paris be busy in May 2024? And is it worth visiting?
May in Paris might actually be my favorite month of the year in this city.
The flowers are blooming, and sunlight lingers a little longer each day. It’s getting warmer, but not too warm. The summer crowds are slowly starting to form, but it’s still not the peak of the action.
As someone who’s been living in the City of Lights for the past 4 years, I’ve seen my share of crowds during May. However, this year, Paris in May might be a little busier than usual, due to the upcoming 2024 Summer Olympics.
In this guide, we’ll discuss whether or not it’s worth visiting Paris in May this year, and the potential pros and cons of visiting Paris pre-Olympics.
Will Paris Be Busy in May 2024?
While May is not the highest of the high season in Paris, it still has the potential to have more significant crowds than the quieter months.
And with the Paris Olympics around the corner in summer 2024, it’s safe to say that the city will be buzzing with excitement and preparations.
Visiting in May 2024 could give a unique sneak peek into how Paris is gearing up to host one of the world’s most exceptional sporting events. You might even spot new infrastructure, installations, and local businesses popping up, showcasing the city’s everlasting energy.
Since May is already a hot-spot on the tourist calendar, I’d expect more excitement leading up to the Olympics. While strolling along the Seine or picnicking near the Eiffel Tower, I wouldn’t be surprised to see more international faces basking in the Parisian experience.
All in all, May 2024 in Paris may witness a sweet blend of classic tourist season busyness coupled with heightened Olympic anticipation. It will be slightly busy, but it won’t be nearly as busy as June 2024 in Paris – and certainly not as busy as July or August will be.
💡 Tip: You’ll want to prepare accordingly by booking tickets to attractions in advance and practicing patience when it comes to navigating public transportation.
Paris Hotels and Pricing in May 2024
Let me give you a piece of advice as an experienced Parisian: securing accommodations early on will be incredibly important, as the influx of tourists is likelier to cause a spike in hotel demand and prices.
Keep in mind that you might have to book a bit further in advance to snag that perfect room with a view. In the end, it’s all about squeezing out the best experience during the high season in the city of love!
⚡ Related read: You can check out my complete list of the best areas to stay in for the 2024 Paris Olympics, and my top hotel picks here
Paris in May: Weather, Things to Do, Events
Ah, springtime in Paris!
In May, the weather in Paris can be quite lovely with a mix of sun and the occasional shower. Temperatures usually range between 50° F (10°C) and 68° F (20°C), so it’s a pleasant time for outdoor activities.
I’ve spent many sunny afternoons chilling in parks, where flowers are in full bloom, creating a colorful and vibrant atmosphere. Remember to pack a light jacket though, as evenings can still get a bit chilly.
Notable Festivals and Events in May
Paris comes alive with events and festivals in May, and trust me, there are plenty to choose from. Here are some of my personal favorites:
- Fête du Pain (Bread Festival): Held around mid-May (May 13-21), this festival celebrates French bread-making traditions with baking demonstrations, workshops, and of course, mouthwatering samples. (As if I needed another reason to love French bread.)
- Labor Day (May 1st): A public holiday in France, where you may come across parades and demonstrations. It’s also a day to give Lily of the Valley flowers to friends and loved ones for good luck – a charming French tradition.
- Saint Germain des Prés Jazz Festival (May 13-20): If you’re a jazz fan like me, don’t miss this incredible event held in late May, featuring amazing performances from both local and international artists.
There’s also the all-night contemporary art festival called Nuit Blanche, where art installations and events light up the streets of Paris.
Popular Attractions and Things to Do in May
In May, you can find a plethora of things to do in Paris.
Personally, I love visiting museums – the Louvre, of course, but also lesser-known gems like the Rodin Museum and Musée de l’Orangerie.
💡 Tip: If you plan your trip well, you can even enjoy free admission to all Paris museums on the first Sunday of each month.
But it’s not just about indoor activities. With such gorgeous spring weather, there’s no better time to explore Paris’ beautiful parks and gardens, like the Luxembourg Gardens, where you can immerse yourself in the local Parisian culture.
And no visit to Paris would be complete without a trip to the iconic Eiffel Tower. My insider’s tip? Head up to the tower in the evening for a stunning view of the illuminated cityscape.
For those who enjoy venturing outside the city, I recommend going on day trips from Paris to experience the beautiful French countryside. A visit to Claude Monet’s Garden in Giverny is a must, especially in May when the flowers are in full bloom.
It’s like stepping into one of his paintings!
Pros and Cons of Visiting Paris in May 2024
May 2024 can be a fantastic time to visit Paris for various reasons, but there are also some potential downsides to being in Paris during this time.
Let’s have a look at the pros and cons of visiting Paris in May 2024:
Advantages
First of all, I have to mention the incredible weather—it’s springtime at its peak, so expect blooming gardens, lush greenery, and long, sunny days as you stroll along the Seine.
You can head to one of the many parks around the city and enjoy a delightful picnic with some of the world’s best cheese and wine.
Since you would be visiting Paris before the Olympics, you are likely to encounter lower tourist crowds than during the games. The result? Shorter waiting times at attractions, more affordable accommodations, and a more relaxed overall experience.
Traveling to Paris in May can be perceived as part of the city’s low season (even though only slightly lower than usual), which means you might get better deals on flights and hotels.
In my years living in Paris, I’ve found that this magical city is always bustling with life, but there’s something truly special about experiencing it in the calm before a significant event like the Olympics.
Potential Disadvantages
Of course, there are a few possible drawbacks when visiting Paris in May 2024.
For instance, with the Olympics just around the corner, there might be last-minute construction works or road/transport repairs. You might also encounter some sites with restricted access or hours because they’re getting “spiffed up” for the big event.
Although the drawbacks aren’t too overwhelming, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons and decide if visiting Paris in May 2024 will give you the experience you’re looking for.
The delightful weather, beautiful surroundings, and abundant events make Paris in May a fantastic and memorable experience. Trust me, I wouldn’t trade my springtime strolls through the City of Lights for anything else!
Tips for Navigating Paris in May 2024
May is a lovely time to visit Paris, with spring in full swing and the weather just perfect for sightseeing. But be prepared; the city can get quite crowded during this time.
Here’s how to make the most of your trip:
- Get an early start: Many attractions open early, so beat the crowds by starting your day at those popular spots before the tourist rush begins.
- Break for lunch: Most tourists grab lunch between 12pm and 2pm, so that’s a great time to explore busy areas, like the Louvre or Notre-Dame, when they’ll be less crowded.
- Metro magic: Utilize Paris’ fantastic public transportation system, which will help you avoid walking through crowded streets, saving time and energy.
Booking Tickets and Accommodations in Advance
Booking your tickets and accommodations in advance is also crucial, especially during the busy season in May.
Here are a few insider tips for booking attractions and entrance to Paris landmarks:
- Book popular attractions in advance: For places like the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre, book your tickets online to save time and avoid long lines.
- Find accommodations early: Start looking for a place to stay as soon as you know your travel dates. The best spots fill up fast, so don’t hesitate!
- Flexible schedule: If possible, try to be flexible with your dates. Visiting Paris in the beginning or end of May might be less crowded than right in the middle of the month.
Thanks for reading!
I hope these tips help you make the most of your visit to Paris in May 2024.
Personally, I never get tired of strolling through the blooming gardens, enjoying a café on a sunlit terrace, and basking in the beauty that is Paris in the springtime. You’re in for a treat, my friend!
This 10-page Paris travel guide includes:
- Practical tips for visiting Paris
- The best foods to eat in Paris
- The best restaurants in Paris (my top picks for breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- The top things to do and see in Paris (including day trips, scenic tours, museums, attractions, and more)
- The best (and worst) places to stay in Paris, including my top picks for hotels in each area
All links in this PDF are clickable so you can book your tours and hotels directly!
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