What to wear in Paris in spring? Spring might be the best time to visit Paris and this season is all about embracing the warmer weather, the longer days, and all the opportunities to get outside.
March, April, and May in Paris are perfect months for riverside walks and strolls through the different parks. On chillier or rainy days, you’ll find that museums are quieter just before the main summer season picks up.
Spring is one of the most romantic and photogenic times for visiting Paris. Events such as the Nuit des Musées (Night of Museums) and the Roland Garros (French Open) see an uptick in numbers.
The main thing to know about what to wear in spring in Paris is that the weather is changeable. You’ll need to prepare for all kinds of conditions. It’s not dissimilar to deciding what to wear in Paris in October.
This guide to what to pack for Paris in spring will ensure you feel comfortable and look your best in the stylish city.
What’s the Weather Like in Spring in Paris?
Spring in Paris runs from early March to the end of May and sees the city “spring” to life with blossoms and summer vibes. In terms of what to wear in Paris in spring, florals are always a good idea.
The temperatures gradually increase and rain is present throughout the season. There are usually around 10 rainy days per month, varying from light showers to heavier downfalls.
March starts off cool with highs of around 54°F (12°C) and lows of around 41°F (5°C). It’s quite chilly overall and rain showers strike occasionally. The first signs of spring appear in public spaces like Jardin des Tuileries and Jardin du Luxembourg.
April nudges up to highs of 61°F (16°C) and lows of around 46°F (8°C). The weather is sunnier and outdoor cafes come into their own but rain is still common.
A good day in May is perfect, with highs of around 68°F (20°C ) and lows of around 52°F (11°C). There is still a fair bit of rain – perhaps even more than in March and April – and evenings are quite cool.
Spring in Paris is one of my favorite times of year!
Paris in Spring: What to Wear in Paris in Spring
Layers are crucial when choosing what to pack for Paris in spring. The temperatures fluctuate throughout the day and evenings remain cool until the very end of May.
In terms of what to wear in Paris in May, you can anticipate having more flexibility to pack summer clothes such as shorts and dresses.
When deciding what to wear in Paris in spring, bear in mind that this is a fashionable city. You don’t need to dress “smart” but smart-casual tends to be the rule of thumb. This guide to what to wear in France has more general pointers about dressing to blend in.
As rain is common throughout the season, a waterproof jacket or umbrella is essential for a spring packing list for Paris.
1. Smart jeans or tailored trousers
Jeans are a great choice for what to wear in spring in Paris. Choose a pair that will coordinate well with your selection of tops and footwear.
As Parisians dress smartly, a classic pair of straight-legged jeans is the best choice. You can wear these for daytime and evening activities. However, you can also go for looser fitting jeans as is the current fashion. Just avoid going overly baggy or you might feel scruffy in certain places.
Adding a smart buckle belt will help achieve the well-put-together Parisian look.
Alongside jeans, tailored trousers come in useful – in place of or alongside dresses. Slim-fit designs tend to offer more warmth during March while wide-leg designs work well later in the season.
These wool-flannel trousers are comfortable and lightweight while providing decent insulation in March. They’ll make you feel more like a flawless Parisian, less like a tourist.
Later in the season, you should be able to get away with wearing linen blend trousers during the day. The trick is always to go for well-fitting trousers, free from bagging around the knees and bobbles from overwear.
Bright blue skies are not a given during Spring in Paris, so be sure to pack layers, an umbrella, and waterproof shoes!
2. Warm, waterproof, or lightweight jacket
Your choice of jacket will vary greatly on your month of travel and what the current forecast is. As a rule of thumb, you should pack a coat in March, a waterproof jacket in April, and a light jacket for May.
A trench coat is perfect for what to wear in Paris in March. This will keep you warm on colder days and evenings but not be too much of a hindrance if you need to carry it from time to time. You’ll definitely appreciate the warmth on evenings in Paris.
In terms of what to wear in Paris in April, you could pack a waterproof jacket. Something trendier, such as a quilted jacket with water-resistant properties, works best for Paris.
Otherwise, a blazer will work well – provided you also have an umbrella.
Regarding what to wear in Paris in May, you’ll need to check the forecast. Either of these two jackets will work for May but if the forecast is warm and dry, you could choose a lighter coat. This bomber-style jacket is perfect for evenings or when sipping cafe au lait on the sidewalk.
3. Practical footwear
Don’t be fooled by certain Netflix shows: Paris is not a place for heels. At least not during the day. You might want to pack a pair of heels for the evening although they’re not essential.
Pack a flat pair of boots or shoes that you can survive a whole day in. Remember, part of Paris have lots of hills and cobblestone sreets. Ideally, these should be waterproof and have a decent sole for increased comfort.
A nice pair of ankle boots or leather loafers are practical for March and April in Paris when it’s still rather cold.
As the temperatures rise, you might prefer sneakers. Choose smarter sneakers and avoid anything too sporty. Bear in mind that May is rainy so these should be water-resistant. Espadrilles could be an option for dry days but they’re not ideal if you get stuck in rain.
4. Skirts and dresses
Skirts and dresses are ideal for what to wear in Paris in April and May. You might still need to wear tights and leggings so it’s good to choose ones that work both ways.
It’s best to go for classic, tailored dresses if you want to blend in with the Parisian dress sense. This printed puff sleeve mini dress is lovely for exploring Paris on warmer days.
A simple black tank dress will work in all seasons and go with a combination of footwear and jackets.
Maxi skirts are ideal for what to wear in Paris in spring, especially later in the season. They can be worn with long-sleeve tops and camisoles based on the weather.
5. Shorts and light trousers
As the season progresses, you can consider packing shorts or summery trousers, such as culottes. If you want to wear shorts, stick to tailored shorts. These are more Paris-friendly than denim cut-offs. Shorts over tights are ideal for what to wear in Paris in April when the air is still quite crisp.
Wide-legged trousers are a great alternative to shorts in April and May. They pair well with anything from a camisole to a tucked-in button shirt. Plus, you can fling on a blazer over the top and feel stylish.
6. Variety of tops
When deciding what to pack for Paris in spring, you will need a few different options for shirts and tops. Your choice will reflect which trousers you take – and the most up to date forecast – but here is a guideline.
A mix of plain cotton tops that you can throw on under a cardigan or sweater works well as a starting point in any month.
If you are traveling to Paris in March, you will need a couple of warmer sweaters. Cashmere crew neck and turtleneck sweaters work well, just ensure the material isn’t too thick as you will overheat.
As Paris is the kind of place where it’s nice to dress up, you can also pack some fun blouses to dress up a simple pair of jeans.
The mornings in Paris are beautiful at all times of year, but especially in early spring when there is still a bit of a chill in the air.
7. Striped shirt
Because this one deserves it’s own section! Inspired by the original Breton stripe shirt, La Marinière, striped shirts are quintessentially French. These are ideal for what to wear in Paris in March, April, and May with jeans and skirts.
You can find loads of different varieties of striped shirts, including copycat Breton shirts, oversized striped shirts, and crewneck striped shirts.
Choose one based on the season and expect to wear it again and again.
8. Hat and/or scarf
Unless there is a cold snap, you shouldn’t need to pack full winter accessories for spring in Paris. However, a scarf or hat are wise to have in your bag for colder spells and cooler evenings at the start of the season.
Available in multiple designs, this plaid scarf works well for what to wear in Paris in spring. You can use it for traveling to and from Paris and also use it as a picnic blanket if the occasion calls.
A simple beanie will be useful either as an alternative to a scarf or to complement it in March/early April. And, of course, you may feel inclined to pick up a beret purely for the fun of it! A sun hat such as a trilby could be useful for May but it’s not essential.
9. Evening clothes
The final component of what to wear in Paris in spring is something for the evening. Many of the suggestions will work well from day to night. However, you might need something more specific if you have tickets to a show or plans to dine at fancier restaurants in Paris.
People dress with care in Paris but tend not to go overboard. A little black dress that reflects your own style will be suitable.
You can also wear your tailored trousers or long skirts but with a change of top. Keep things simple and use accessories to add a flair.
What to pack for Paris in spring
Besides sussing out what to wear in Paris in March, April, and May, you’ll need to leave room for these travel essentials.
10. Umbrella
An umbrella is a must for any Paris packing list for spring. You can easily be caught off guard during this fickle season.
Pack a compact travel-friendly umbrella which will slip into your day bag.
Comfortable shoes are a must if you are walking a lot in Paris, those cobbled streets are no joke!
11. Reusable water bottle
Tap water is safe to drink in Paris. There are fountains dotted around public areas and at museums. Restaurants and cafes will give you water for free.
Pack a BPA-free stainless steel bottle to stay hydrated on the move. It comes in three sizes, so you can decide how much liquid you want to lug around.
12. Small day bag (and an evening purse)
Pack a day bag that’s just the right size for essentials but not too chunky. Larger bags make you more of a victim for petty theft and may need to be checked into storage at museums.
This mini leather rucksack works well for a spring packing list for Paris. It’s not too large, it’s water resistant, and it has secure pockets for valuables.
In addition, you can take a smaller bag for evening use. This small purse is all you should need for dinners out and cultural activities.
13. Accessories and jewelry case
To reduce the chances of overspending in Paris, take your own accessories. Jewelry is a great way to refresh daytime outfits before going out.
Parisians are quite minimal with cosmetics and accessories so you’re best packing a few classic pieces or some statement jewelry. Secure these in a foldable jewelry case designed for travel.
14. Sunglasses
When the sun does make an appearance, it can be extremely strong in Paris in spring. A large pair of polarized sunglasses is essential for what to wear in Paris in May, although you’ll need them in all months. Even on cloudy days, the UV rays can be damaging to your eyes.
In addition to sunglasses, you should pack SPF sunscreen for later in the season.