What makes 40 million people from around the world visit a single European city every year? It will take ages to disclose the answer to that question, and eons to pen it all down. Paris is beyond just a pin on the map. It is a call that nobody can defy. It is a sensation that ingests everyone who goes there. Be it for the immense architectural allure of the Eiffel tower, or the seasoned serenity of Seine, Paris has never found it difficult to delight her visitors. And since the Olympics that happened few months ago have put the city in the spotlight, interest in visiting Paris has surged even more. November offers a unique charm to the City of Light, with its crisp autumn air and fewer crowds. The golden hues of falling leaves in the Tuileries Garden create a picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls. And many such activities will make your November visit to Paris unforgettable. Read this blog to discover the best ways to experience Paris in November.
What makes Paris in November a must-visit?
Paris in November offers a unique charm, with fewer tourists and a more intimate atmosphere. The city's cooler temperatures encourage cozy indoor activities, making it perfect for exploring Parisian cafés, indulging in hot chocolate, or visiting museums like Musée d'Orsay and Musée Rodin. The shorter daylight hours create a magical twilight ambiance, while quieter streets allow for a more relaxed experience. November's cultural calendar features events like the Beaujolais Nouveau festival, celebrating young wine from Burgundy. The city's stores showcase exquisite window displays, adding to the pre-holiday atmosphere. With reduced crowds, visitors can enjoy shorter queues at popular attractions and savor the romantic ambiance of the City of Light.
Paris Weather in November
November in Paris sees the mercury often dropping below 10ºC. November sees an average high of 12ºC and an average low of 8ºC with daily sunshine of about 8 to 10 hours. The chilly weather creates a somber mood and as the days grow shorter, tourists dwindle and the city becomes a sleepy town.
Paris in November: Things to do
1
The Eiffel Tower
Eiffel tower is the globally recognized unofficial emblem of travel and tourism. Understandably, it is a busy place to be during the tourist season. In November, you can enjoy this architectural marvel with lesser people to invade your personal space or photobomb your selfies.
Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France,
Paris
Getting There ›
2
Versailles Palace
Visiting Versailles Palace is a journey through opulence and history. Located just outside Paris, this magnificent 17th-century palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore the resplendent Hall of Mirrors, stunning gardens, and learn about the reign of Louis XIV. It's a grand and unforgettable window into France's royal past.
Place d'Armes, 78000 Versailles,
France
Getting There ›
3
The Louvre
Visiting The Louvre in Paris is a cultural odyssey through art history. Housed in a grand palace, it's one of the world's largest and most iconic museums. Here, visitors can admire masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, while wandering through opulent halls, gardens, and centuries of human creativity.
Musée du Louvre, 75001 Paris,
France
Getting There ›
4
Orsay Museum
Visiting the Orsay Museum in Paris is a journey through the heart of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. Housed in a stunning Beaux-Arts railway station, it boasts an unparalleled collection featuring works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas. The grandeur of the building and the art within make it a cultural treasure in the City of Light.
1 Rue de la Légion d'Honneur, 75007 Paris
France
Getting There ›
5
Seine Dinner Cruise
It would be a crime to leave Paris without being on this tour. The most popular Parisian landmarks are visible from the glass canopy boats. The magical tour also includes a 3-course meal. It is quite evident why this tour is so popular. Add to that, the calmer November scenes.
Port de la Bourdonnais, 75007 Paris
France
Getting There ›
6
Les Invalides
Les Invalides is a complex of museums and monuments dedicated to French military history. It houses Napoleon's tomb and offers insights into France's military past. The golden dome of the chapel is a striking landmark. You can delve into exhibitions on World War I and II, view impressive collections of armory, and gain a deeper understanding of France's military legacy.
75007 Paris, France
Getting There ›
7
The Arc de Triomphe and Armistice Day
Arc de Triomphe stands tall in Paris as a tribute to the fallen French soldiers in various wars. November 11th of every year is observed as the Armistice Day. A parade along the Champs Elysees, that passes by The Tomb of Unknown Soldiers, takes place every year.
Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris
France
Getting There ›
Paris in November: Events to Look Out For
Paris Photo
Dates: November 7 - 10, 2024
The largest photographic art fair in the world is held every year in Paris in November. About 200 exhibitors from all over the world display their works in Paris Photo. Apart from that, you get exclusive insights about the featured photos.
The France Beaujolais Nouveau Festival
Date: November 21 - 23, 2024
Above all, French people like their celebrations to be thorough. Beaujolais Nouveau Festival celebrates the first wine of the season with music, fireworks and merriment. The yearly event takes place on the third Thursday of the month of November.
Pitchfork Music Festival 2024
Dates: November 4 to 10, 2024
The Pitchfork Music Festival 2024 in Paris, promises a sonic feast for music aficionados. This diverse festival features a dynamic lineup of international and local artists across various genres. Attendees can expect a day of musical exploration and unforgettable performances in the vibrant and culturally rich city of Paris.
Paris in November: 5-day Itinerary
Check out our carefully curated itineraries and plan your visit to Paris better. Whether you're visiting Paris for 1 day, 3 days or 5 days; our itineraries packed with top experiences and traveler tips are bound to come handy.
5 Days in Paris Itinerary
1
Paris Essentials
Weather
Novembers in Paris are cold. It is around this time that the mercury regularly drops below the 10ºC or 50ºF. An average high of 12ºC/53ºF and an average low of 8ºC/46ºF can be expected. Rainfall can be expected on 10-15 days during the month. The daylight time ranges from 8 to 10 hours per day. It can also get a bit windy at times.
What to pack
Given the dipping temperature, it is a no-brainer to pack warm clothes and accessories. Do not underestimate the cold wind which is bound to dry up your skin. Pack enough lotion for your outings. And finally, pick a proper waterproof boot and coat in case you end up walking in the cold November rain.
Getting around Paris
RATP manages most of Paris’s public transport. RATP passes and tickets will be valid in the underground metro, bus, noctilien, and rail systems that ply around Paris (available at airports and stations). The Greater Paris area is divided into 6 transport zones, out of which zones 1 and 2 would the crucial ones for tourists.
RATP passes and tickets can be bought from métro stations, tourist offices, and tobacconists, while single tickets can also be purchased in the bus. The metro is the most convenient mode of transport in Paris. You can opt for the bus and the noctilien if you prefer to stay on the surface. All modes of transport run late into the night.
What to eat
The French baguette is an embodiment of the nation’s culinary tradition. It is a long loaf of bread made from lean dough, with an inimitable crispy crust. While this item is available almost anywhere, you just cannot miss out on having a few from Boulangerie Brun, or Painvie bakery.
Possibly the most popular cafe dish in all of France, the Croque-monsieur is quite a utilitarian food to eat. It is a crispy ham sandwich that oozes with cheese. A small amount of béchamel sauce is used to moisten it. In case you are starving, order a Croque-madame, which is basically Croque-monsieur topped with a fried egg. Go to Café des Phares for the best Croque-monsieur in Paris.
A quiche is a breakfast staple in France. It is a mainly salty flan within a pastry crust. The flan is made of milk, eggs and cheese, with varieties that consist of vegetables, seafood, or vegetables. The best quiche in Paris can be found at The Smiths Bakery and Les Petits Mitrons.
The French variety of Sauerkraut has a long-standing history that firmly etches its name in the Parisian archives. This brasserie (French for brewery) essential basically comprises of a generous helping of white cabbage cooked in riesling, duck/pork fat, garnished with herbs and garlic, and finally topped up with ham and bacon. Sit down at Bofinger to have the city’s best Choucroute.
This 18th-century dish owes its name and preparation to King Stanislaus, who had ordered the recreation of raisin brioche with Tokaji wine while serving his exile. Now, this dense cake is soaked in rum and filled with pastry cream. Stohrer and Bistrot Paul Bert serve the best Baba Au Rhum in Paris.
Tips to visit Paris in November
- Try the local chocolates and chocolate-based drinks to fully relish November in Paris.
- Gorge on as much cheese as you feel like. It will provide you with the warmth you need in the weather.
- Choose from an array of day trips from Paris, like Disneyland Skip The Line with Luxury Coach, Guided Tour of the Reims Champagne Region, Half Day at Provins, Mont St. Michel's Abbey Full Day Trip, depending on the time you have.
- Carry disposable toothbrushes so that you don’t have to walk around with stained teeth after sipping on wine and street food.
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