Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Paris in November (2024)

November Weather in Paris

Visiting the city of lightin November can be a great time to focus on indoor sights and attractions such as admiring collections inParis's many extraordinary museums, discovering charming littlearthouse movie theaters, observing breathtaking details inParis'schurches and cathedrals, or sipping frothycafé crèmesover a good book. Since there are fewer fellow tourists roaming around, you can generally expect shorter lines and less crowded museums and restaurants.

Your chances of snagging a good deal on airfares and hotels are much higher at this time of year. In November, too, you'll have more chances of striking up a conversation with the locals, who have all long since returned from summer vacation. This month is generally quiet in the city, and chilly weather often creates a more somber mood. As the days grow ever shorter and the mercury starts to drop, tourist numbers dwindle, and the city feels calm and a bit sleepy at times.

The leaves have turned and it can be rainy and chilly, often approaching freezing by early morning. Note that there are fewer daylight hours to be out and about.You'll have to plan accordingly.

What to Pack

You'll be packing for conditions that tend to be cold and wet. Factor in wind chill and you'll immediately understand why your suitcase should be well-stocked with plenty of sweaters, scarves, coats, and warm socks.

An umbrella and/or a waterproof jacket with a hood is amust in this wet season. Buy a sturdy and large umbrella because windgusts will quickly snap the cheap varieties and small ones will often leave you wet.

In terms of footwear, you don't necessarily need boots (unless you plan on long walks outdoors or outside the city), but footwear made of waterproof material would be best. If you enjoy sporting heels, bring at least one pair of flat shoesfor walking as the streets and even metro stairs can be slick from the rain.

A light pair of gloves will make walking outdoors more comfortable. You may also want to think about bringing a small thermos so you can warm yourself with a hot drink while seeing the sights (or waiting outside in the occasional line).

Enjoy Seasonal Events

November events, primarily held indoors, will give you a variety of things to do. The ParisAutumn Festivalor Festival de l'Automne launches thepost-summer season highlighting some of the most compelling works in contemporary visual art, music, cinema, and theater.

November,at the stroke of midnighton thethirdThursday, is the time for the release of the year'sBeaujolais Nouveau. Tastings and release parties celebrating this young wine are held in Paris restaurants and wine shops.

Join in with other chocolate lovers at the annualSalon du Chocolatheld at thePorte de Versailles convention center at Paris's south edge. It's a trade show with many interesting and delicious side events.