Paris Weather in October: What to Expect

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 like the perfect autumn experience.

If you're coming to Paris this month, you'll see lots of colorful late-blooming flowers in the city's parks, and golden fall foliage on the trees. 

You'll also begin to feel a shift to cooler weather.  October marks a transition period as 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 weather in Paris still serves up plenty of lovely, sunny, and even warm days.

So when you're preparing for your visit, be sure to pack clothes you can layer 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 include on your packing list 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 food and wine tasting walking tour of the Marais, 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, and even recommendations about where to stay this month.

Article contents:

• Paris weather temperature ranges for October - Plus What to Really Expect
• How much rain to expect in Paris during October
• What to pack for your October visit to Paris
• Should you visit Paris during October?
• 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?

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 chillier fall temperatures during October, along with periods of cloudy skies and showers.  On some of those days, the high temperature may even hover in the mid 40s (6-7 degrees Celsius).

Fortunately, periods of rain don't normally last long this month (although a couple or recent years have been exceptions), 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 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, averages 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 & Low Temperature Ranges

To find "worst case" information about what October weather in Paris might be like, check these ranges 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 variation of over 40 degrees (F) for daily highs and a variation of 30 degrees (F) for daily lows.

Finally, in case you're wondering if you should book a hotel with air conditioning for your October visit, check the high end of range of daily high and low temperatures. 

If you plan to spend a lot of time in your hotel room during the day, highs in the low 80s may feel a little too warm - but remember, the average highs for the month range between 59°F (15°C) to 68°F (20°C).  

On the other hand, the highest temperature at night (64° F /18°C) should be comfortable for sleeping, and nights will most likely be cooler than that.

So unless you do plan to stay in your room a lot during the day and are bothered by the possibility of heat, you will most likely be fine without a/c.

Now check the 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:  Much 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. 

Similarly, the weather could be cold-to-freezing on a few days and nights, which means packing 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

Don't let the brilliant blue sky in this photo of the picturesque Mouzaia neighborhood trick you into thinking that October weather is always gorgeous. 

On the Sunday afternoon when we took this photo during a delightful walk through Mouzaia's village-like lanes, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, and Parc de la Villette in the 19th arrondissement, the weather was absolutely picture-perfect - but by the next day, the sky had turned gray and overcast, and a chilly wind was blowing. 

Dramatic day-to-day changes like that characterize October weather, so don't be surprised!

In addition, days begin to feel noticeably shorter this month compared with September. 

At the beginning of the month, you'll still experience almost full 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. Paris averages only 10 hours, 52 minutes of daylight during the month.

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).

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How Much Rain Does Paris Get in October?

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 nine-tenths of an inch (23 mm) to a whopping 6.7 inches (169 mm). 

The past half-dozen years have experienced increasingly high amounts of rain, with the highest (6.7 inches / 169 mm) occurring last year.  Furthermore, most of that amount fell during a 2-day period, causing fairly major flooding occurred and the closure of some parks and venues as well as cancellations of some events.

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 years have experienced anywhere between 10 and 25 days when rain fell. 

Paris can be breezy in October but this generally isn't one of the windier months. 

However, wind storms (often accompanied by rain) 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 or 4 at the most) of cold, rainy, miserable weather. 

Pack with the possibility of storms in mind - and definitely plan enough indoor activities to fill the time, just in case a storm hits during your visit.

If you're planning day trips from Paris, you may be wondering about the weather at nearby attractions such as Versailles 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 exceptions to this are 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 attractions are wonderful in October) - just wear your warmest jacket (and considering layering a sweater underneath), plus a scarf and gloves.

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What to Pack for October Weather in Paris

Paris weather during October often changes rapidly and often, 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 jackets such 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. 
• Based on the large amounts of rain that has fallen during the past two years, you might also consider bringing waterproof boots.
• 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 and Hema offer nice quality items at affordable prices, and you can usually find even better deals (especially on scarves and hats) at neighborhood outdoor food markets.
• 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

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Does October Weather Make This a Good Month to Visit?

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

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Weather-Proof Things to Do in Paris in October

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

• Moulin Rouge - Enjoy an evening of entertainment and champagne in this 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

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More Fun Things to Do & See in Paris in October

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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 rainy so 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: 

Booking.com

Check out the newest Paris hotels

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Where to Get Paris Weather Predictions

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

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