Paris in November: Weather, Events & Everything Worth Knowing Before You Go
This year, I celebrated Thanksgiving a little differently by spending it in Paris with my friend Jessica. Visiting Paris in November felt completely different from my first summer trip years ago, trading packed streets for fewer crowds, cozy cafés, and a slower, more intimate rhythm that made space for long walks, good food, and unhurried conversations.
November’s early off-peak season gave us space to wander iconic neighborhoods, enjoy seasonal markets, and experience Paris in a way that felt calm, not rushed. It wasn’t just a trip; it was a chance to reconnect with friends and see the city through a quieter lens.
This guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Paris in November, including weather, seasonal events, top attractions, where to eat, and a sample itinerary to help you plan a relaxed, memorable stay.
Paris in November at a Glance
| Average temperatures | ~39–54°F / 4–12°C depending on when you visit |
| Weather | Cool, damp, occasional rain |
| Crowds | Lower than peak season |
| Best for | Museums, cafés, fall atmosphere, early holiday festivities |
| Pack | Warm layers, waterproof shoes, umbrella |
| Holiday atmosphere | Strongest in late November |
Paris in November: Weather You Should Expect
Paris in November is cool, damp, and quieter than peak season. Here’s what the temperatures actually look like throughout the month:
| Time of Month | Average High | Average Low | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early November | 54°F / 12°C | 45°F / 7°C | ~8 rainy days |
| Mid November | 50°F / 10°C | 42°F / 6°C | ~9 rainy days |
| Late November | 46°F / 8°C | 39°F / 4°C | ~10 rainy days |
Temperatures drop noticeably from October into November, so don’t be fooled by a mild fall forecast. By late November, nighttime temperatures can dip below 40°F. You’ll also have shorter daylight hours, with sunset arriving around 5 p.m.
The good news is that even on grey, drizzly days, Paris has an undeniable charm. November weather is part of the city’s character, not a reason to stay home. The weather meant carrying an umbrella and sometimes tucking into warm cafés when the drizzle picked up. It became part of the experience, moving between the misty streets outside and the cozy glow inside. I also personally loved marveling at the last of the fall foliage.
Paris in November is a great example of how off-season travel in Europe can offer a quieter, more immersive experience, something I explore more broadly in this guide to traveling during Greece’s off-season.
Early November vs Late November: Which is Better?
The two halves of November offer genuinely different experiences, and which is better depends on what you’re looking for.
Early November (1st–14th) is ideal if you want a quieter, more relaxed Paris experience. You can still catch some late-autumn color, and the city’s holiday season is just beginning to emerge. If you’re visiting mid-month, you may even catch the first Christmas markets.
Late November (15th–30th) is the better choice if experiencing Paris during the start of the Christmas season is a priority. More Christmas markets begin opening, department stores unveil their holiday windows, and festive lights start appearing across the city. You’ll still be visiting before the peak December holiday season.
The sweet spot: If you want fewer peak-season crowds and some holiday atmosphere, aim for the third or fourth week of November.
What to Wear & Pack for Paris in November
Packing right makes all the difference between a miserable and a magical November trip. Here’s exactly what you need:
Clothing Essentials
- Warm wool or down coat: A trench coat alone won’t cut it in late November
- Sweaters and long-sleeve layers you can add or remove throughout the day
- Hat, gloves, and a scarf: Non-negotiable once you hit mid-November
Shoes for Rainy Paris Days
- Waterproof boots or shoes: You will likely walk on wet cobblestones daily
Accessories & Travel Essentials
- Compact umbrella: Keep it in your bag every single day
- Cross-body bag: Keeps your hands free and valuables secure in crowds
- Portable charger: Cold weather drains phone batteries faster
- Travel adapter (Type E plug for France)
- Any medications: French pharmacies are excellent, but having your own is easier
- Light layers for museums: You’ll overheat in a heavy coat indoors
What I’d Wear in Paris in November
Paris in November is all about layers, but that doesn’t mean sacrificing style. On my trip, I leaned into cozy pieces like sweaters, scarves, ankle boots, and warm jackets, then used accessories like berets and hats to make even practical cold-weather outfits feel more polished. I also mixed classic neutrals with playful touches, like plaid trousers and a pop of yellow, which made it easy to go from walking around the city to museums, cafés, and dinner.
If I were packing for Paris in November again, I’d build a small capsule around a warm coat, a few knit layers, comfortable waterproof boots, versatile trousers or jeans, and two or three statement accessories. The goal is pieces you can layer as the temperature changes throughout the day while still feeling put together in a city where style is part of the experience.
Spending Thanksgiving in Paris
Thanksgiving isn’t a public holiday in Paris, but visitors can still celebrate with special restaurant menus or by enjoying a relaxed, Parisian-style meal with friends.
If you want the traditional route, spots like Ralph’s, Joe Allen, or Ô Chateau serve up a taste of home. Or lean into the Parisian way: think duck confit instead of turkey, or a simple, cozy bistro dinner shared with friends.
At the end of the day, Thanksgiving in Paris isn’t about whether there’s turkey on your plate. It’s about slowing down, savoring the moment, and finding gratitude wherever you are.
Where to Stay in Paris in November
My friend Vivien graciously hosted us in an apartment in the La Fourche neighborhood, and honestly, it was one of the best parts of the trip. Staying in a local neighborhood rather than a tourist-heavy arrondissement gave us a completely different feel for the city. We were centrally located near major landmarks, just a short walk to both a metro station and a bus stop, and surrounded by the kind of everyday cafés and boulangeries that make Paris feel like home rather than a postcard.
Here’s where I’d book in November across every budget. November can also be a good time to find lower hotel rates than during peak summer, especially if your dates don’t overlap with a major event or holiday period.
📍Best Budget Hotel
Timhotel Paris Gare du Nord: Right beside Gare du Nord, this hotel offers easy access to metro and train connections, including Eurostar. Rooms are simple, rates are affordable, and the location makes exploring Paris effortless.
📍 Best Mid-Range Hotel
Meliá Paris La Défense: A sleek 4-star stay with modern design and a rooftop bar offering panoramic city views. Just a 5-minute walk from La Grande Arche de la Défense and 7 minutes from Les Quatre Temps shopping center, it’s ideally located for sightseeing and exploring the city via the nearby metro.
📍 Best Luxury Spot:
Mandarin Oriental, Paris: Located on Rue Saint-Honoré, this five-star hotel offers a luxury spa, peaceful garden, upscale dining, and easy access to designer shopping. Consider it if you’re looking for a high-end Paris stay with wellness amenities.
Getting Around Paris in November
As someone from New York City, a city with a robust public transportation system, I found getting around Paris relatively easy. Admittedly, we took more Ubers than necessary because of the rainy November weather, but Paris is also incredibly walkable, and we used the Metro and other public transportation throughout our trip.
From the Airports
From Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), the RER B connects the airport with central Paris. From Orly Airport (ORY), Metro Line 14 provides a convenient connection into the city. In 2026, the Paris Region ↔ Airports ticket costs €14 for either route.
Taxis and ride-share services are also available and may be more convenient if you’re traveling with several bags or arriving late.
Around the City
For most visitors, walking and the Metro will be the easiest ways to explore Paris. As of this update, a single Metro-Train-RER journey costs €2.55, while a Bus-Tram ticket costs €2.05. You can load tickets onto a Navigo Easy pass or buy them digitally on a compatible smartphone.
If you’ll be using public transportation frequently, compare the cost of individual tickets with a day or multi-day pass based on your itinerary. The Navigo Day pass costs €12.30 in 2026 but does not include airport travel.
Operating Hours
The Paris Metro generally runs from around 5:30 a.m. until 1:15 a.m., with service extending to approximately 2:15 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights and before public holidays. Exact schedules vary by line, so check RATP or Île-de-France Mobilités for current service information during your trip.
November Tip: Paris is very walkable, but cold or rainy weather can make the Metro especially useful. I recommend planning your days by neighborhood so you can walk between nearby attractions and use the Metro for longer distances.
Best Things to Do in Paris in November
November is a transitional month in Paris. Early in the month, you can still catch traces of fall, while later November brings the first signs of the holiday season with festive lights, Christmas markets, decorated department stores, and seasonal events. Add fewer crowds at museums and major attractions, and you’ll have plenty of reasons to embrace Paris during the off-season.
See Paris Begin to Transform for Christmas
If you visit during the second half of November, you’ll start to see Paris transform for the holidays. Christmas lights begin appearing around the city, department stores unveil their elaborate holiday window displays, and festive decorations start popping up throughout popular shopping districts.
Galeries Lafayette is especially worth visiting for its famous Christmas tree and holiday displays, while neighborhoods and shopping areas around Boulevard Haussmann, Place Vendôme, and the Champs-Élysées are beautiful to explore once the seasonal decorations begin appearing.
Visit the November Christmas Markets
Paris’ Christmas markets open at different points throughout November, so what’s available will depend on your travel dates. Some of the larger markets begin welcoming visitors around mid-month, while others don’t open until late November.
During my trip, we visited the Magic of Christmas at Tuileries Garden, a festive fair filled with holiday attractions, seasonal food, and plenty of Christmas spirit. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it turned out to be a fun addition to our November trip.
For drinks, vin chaud (mulled wine) is a holiday classic. Since I’m allergic to wine, I went with hot apple cider instead.
Other popular Paris Christmas markets include La Défense, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the Notre-Dame Christmas Market, and the Alsatian Christmas Market at Gare de l’Est.
Planning Tip: Christmas market dates change from year to year, so check the official dates for your travel year before planning your itinerary around a particular market. If Christmas markets are a priority, the second half of November will generally give you more options.
If you enjoy festive winter markets, you’ll find this theme across Europe, including destinations like Budapest, which is especially known for its atmospheric Christmas markets.
Experience Beaujolais Nouveau Day
If your trip falls on the third Thursday of November, you’ll be in Paris for Beaujolais Nouveau Day, when the year’s Beaujolais Nouveau wine is officially released.
Wine bars, restaurants, and other venues around the city may mark the occasion with tastings and special events. Even if you’re not a major wine drinker, it’s a great chance to experience a French seasonal tradition while you’re in Paris.
Take Advantage of Black Friday Shopping
Although Thanksgiving isn’t a French holiday, Black Friday has become a major shopping event in Paris, with many department stores, boutiques, and international retailers offering promotions in late November.
I unexpectedly got to experience Paris Black Friday shopping firsthand after my jacket was stolen at Newark Airport on my way to Paris. Not exactly how I planned to start the trip, but the sales came in handy when I suddenly needed to buy another coat!
If shopping is part of your Paris itinerary, late November can be a fun time to browse the department stores and boutiques, especially as the holiday displays begin appearing around the city.
Visit a Museum or Seasonal Exhibition
November weather makes this an especially good time to explore Paris’ museums and galleries. You can spend a rainy or chilly afternoon surrounded by art rather than feeling like you’re missing a beautiful day outside.
Beyond classics like the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, check the current exhibition calendar at places like the Fondation Louis Vuitton. During my November trip, we saw the Jean-Michel Basquiat exhibition there, and I loved both the exhibition and the striking Frank Gehry-designed building itself.
Temporary exhibitions change throughout the year, so I recommend checking what’s showing during your specific travel dates and booking popular exhibitions in advance.
Know the November Public Holidays
Two French public holidays fall in November and are worth keeping in mind when planning your trip.
All Saints’ Day (La Toussaint) — November 1: Some banks, government offices, shops, and businesses may close or operate on reduced hours. Major tourist attractions and many restaurants typically remain open, but hours can vary.
Armistice Day — November 11: This national holiday commemorates the end of World War I. An official ceremony takes place at the Arc de Triomphe, making this a particularly meaningful day to be in Paris if your trip overlaps with November 11.
Because opening hours and transportation schedules can change on public holidays, check individual attractions and restaurants in advance and make reservations for anything you don’t want to miss.
Paris Attractions That Are Especially Good in November
You can visit Paris’ most famous attractions year-round, but November has a few advantages: fewer peak-season crowds, cooler weather that makes museums especially appealing, and a moody fall atmosphere that gives the city a completely different feel from summer. These are some of the places I’d prioritize during a November trip.
Eiffel Tower
Did you even go to Paris if you didn’t see the Eiffel Tower? I’ve visited during both the day and at night, and each experience has its own appeal. In November, the tower looks especially beautiful against the softer fall light, foggy skies, and remaining autumn foliage.
If you can, see it twice: once during the day and again after dark when the tower lights up. Just bundle up, especially if you plan to spend time outside or head to the upper levels.
Planning Tip: Book timed-entry tickets in advance and check the official Eiffel Tower website for current hours and ticket options before your visit.
Louvre Museum
November is an ideal time to spend a few hours inside the Louvre, especially on a cold or rainy day. The museum is massive, so don’t expect to see everything in one visit. We spent about four hours exploring and still only scratched the surface.
Of course, the Mona Lisa is the big draw, but some of the most fascinating collections for me were the African, Asian, Oceanic, and Americas works. Give yourself time to explore beyond the museum’s most famous pieces rather than racing from one landmark artwork to another.
Planning Tip: Reserve a timed-entry ticket in advance and choose a few galleries or works you really want to see before arriving. It makes such a huge museum feel much more manageable.
Covered Passages
Paris’s historic covered passages are one of my favorite recommendations for a rainy November day. These 19th-century glass-roofed arcades are tucked between city streets and filled with bookstores, cafés, antique shops, restaurants, and boutiques.
Instead of letting a little drizzle derail your sightseeing, you can wander through passages like Galerie Vivienne and Passage des Panoramas while staying mostly sheltered. The architecture alone makes them worth visiting.
Planning Tip: Pair the passages with a nearby café or lunch stop and turn a rainy afternoon into part of the experience rather than something you need to work around.
Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Montmartre is charming in every season, but I especially like it for a November trip because the neighborhood can feel more intimate once the peak summer crowds thin out.
Wander the cobblestone streets, stop by Place du Tertre, and head up to Sacré-Cœur Basilica for panoramic views over Paris. Depending on when you visit, you may also catch some of the last fall color around the neighborhood.
Planning Tip: Visit later in the afternoon so you can explore Montmartre during daylight and stay as the city begins lighting up for the evening. Wear comfortable shoes—the hills and cobblestones are no joke.
Seine River Cruise
A Seine River cruise may sound like a warm-weather activity, but I actually think November makes it even more atmospheric. You’ll pass landmarks like Notre-Dame, Musée d’Orsay, Pont Alexandre III, and the Eiffel Tower while seeing Paris from a completely different perspective.
An evening cruise is especially beautiful once the city lights reflect across the water. Many sightseeing boats have enclosed or heated indoor areas, which is a major plus on a chilly November night.
Planning Tip: If you want the most atmospheric experience, book around sunset or after dark and choose a boat with indoor seating in case the weather turns cold or rainy.
Musée d’Orsay
Set inside a former Beaux-Arts railway station, the Musée d’Orsay is one of my favorite indoor options for a chilly Paris day. Its collection includes works by artists like Monet, Renoir, Degas, and Van Gogh, making it especially worthwhile if you love Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art.
Even beyond the artwork, the building itself is part of the experience. The enormous clock windows overlooking Paris are worth seeking out while you’re there.
Planning Tip: Give yourself at least a few hours and check the museum’s current exhibition schedule before your trip. November is also a great time to pair Musée d’Orsay with other indoor attractions if rain is in the forecast.
Luxembourg Gardens
Luxembourg Gardens look completely different in November than they do in spring and summer, but that’s part of their appeal. Depending on when you visit, you may still catch golden leaves and fall color throughout the park before the trees become bare for winter.
It’s a lovely place for a slower walk between sightseeing stops, especially on a crisp, dry November day. Don’t miss the Medici Fountain, one of the most peaceful and photogenic corners of the gardens.
Planning Tip: Save Luxembourg Gardens for a clear-weather day. November daylight is limited, so I’d visit earlier rather than leaving the gardens until the end of your sightseeing day
Where to Eat and Drink
November is the perfect time to lean into Paris’s café and bistro culture. After hours of walking in the cold or exploring museums, nothing beats settling into a cozy restaurant for a warm meal, lingering over brunch, or ducking into a café to escape the rain. These are a few spots I enjoyed during my trip, along with others worth considering for a November visit.
Babylone Bis
We had terrific African food at Babylone Bis, a lively spot with walls lined with photos of stars like Marvin Gaye and Rihanna. Despite its celebrity following, the atmosphere felt fun and approachable, not overly formal.
We stopped here after a night out exploring Paris, and it was the perfect place to end the evening with good food and great energy. If you’re looking for something beyond traditional French cuisine during your trip, add this one to your list.
Le Bellevilloise Café
One of my favorite food experiences from this trip was the Jazz Brunch at Le Bellevilloise. We enjoyed a generous brunch while listening to live jazz, and the entire experience felt relaxed, local, and refreshingly removed from the typical tourist circuit.
If you’re in Paris over the weekend, this is a fun option for a slower November morning. Check the current event schedule and reserve in advance, as brunch and live music events can be popular.
Le Comptoir du Relais
For a classic Parisian bistro experience, Le Comptoir du Relais in the 6th arrondissement is known for traditional French cuisine served in a warm, intimate setting. It’s the kind of cozy restaurant that feels especially fitting on a chilly November evening.
Come for French classics like duck confit and other seasonal dishes, and plan ahead if it’s high on your list since the restaurant can be busy.
Le Procope
If you want a little Parisian history with your meal, Le Procope is worth considering. Dating back to 1686, the historic restaurant has hosted generations of writers, thinkers, and notable figures and still serves traditional French cuisine today.
The ornate interiors and classic dishes make it an especially atmospheric choice for a cold November evening. Reservations are a good idea if you plan to visit during a busy dinner period.
Taste Your Way Through Paris
Want to experience more of Paris’s food scene? From food tours and pastry tastings to cooking classes and wine experiences, a guided culinary experience can be a fun way to discover more of the city.
Nightlife in Paris in November
Paris nightlife doesn’t stop when the temperatures drop. November is a great time to trade summer terraces for stylish cocktail bars, live music, DJ sets, and late-night clubs.
We didn’t party quite as much on this trip as we did during my first European adventure. But we did dedicate one Saturday night to experiencing Paris after dark.
We started the night at Le Pigalle, a stylish neighborhood hotel and gathering spot in the 9th arrondissement known for its creative atmosphere, cocktails, music, and DJ sets. The DJ was excellent when we visited; the drinks were strong, and the vibrant décor made it a fun place to start the evening.
After grabbing a quick bite, we headed to Jangal, a jungle-inspired nightclub near Avenue de l’Opéra, where we danced the rest of the night away. The music and energy made it one of the most memorable nights of our trip.
If clubbing isn’t your thing, Paris in November is equally beautiful at a slower pace. Take an evening walk along the Seine, see the Eiffel Tower illuminated after dark, wander through Montmartre, or settle into a cozy cocktail bar. Seeing the city lights against a crisp November night makes Paris feel especially atmospheric.
Planning Tip: Nightlife programming, opening days, and dress codes can change, so check the venue’s current schedule before heading out, especially if there’s a particular DJ or event you want to experience.
Sample 5-Day Paris in November Itinerary
If you have five days in Paris, this itinerary balances the city’s iconic sights with neighborhoods, museums, seasonal experiences, and plenty of time to slow down and enjoy Paris in November. Adjust the Christmas market and Thanksgiving activities based on your exact travel dates.
Day 1: Arrive + Seine River Cruise
Settle into your hotel and keep your first day relatively easy. Spend some time exploring your neighborhood, then head toward the Seine for your first glimpse of Paris’s most iconic landmarks. If you have the energy, book an evening Seine River cruise to see the Eiffel Tower and city lights from the water.
November tip: Sunset comes early, which actually works in your favor—you can experience Paris illuminated without staying out particularly late.
Day 2: Eiffel Tower + Musée d’Orsay + Saint-Germain
Start your morning at the Eiffel Tower, then head to the Musée d’Orsay for an afternoon indoors. Afterward, cross over to Saint-Germain-des-Prés for cafés, dinner, and an evening stroll.
If you’re visiting later in November and the Saint-Germain Christmas Market is open during your dates, it’s easy to fit into your day.
Day 3: Montmartre + Sacré-Cœur + Paris Nightlife
Spend the day exploring Montmartre’s cobblestone streets, cafés, shops, and Place du Tertre, then visit Sacré-Cœur for panoramic views over Paris.
Stay in the neighborhood into the evening or head back to your hotel to change before a night out. We started our night at Le Pigalle, then eventually headed to Jangal to dance.
Not interested in clubs? Make this a slower evening with dinner, cocktails, or a nighttime walk instead.
Day 4: Louvre + Covered Passages + Thanksgiving Dinner
Dedicate the morning to the Louvre, but don’t try to see everything. Pick a few collections you’re most interested in and give yourself several hours to explore.
Afterward, spend part of the afternoon wandering Paris’s historic covered passages, like Galerie Vivienne and Passage des Panoramas. They’re particularly good for a November itinerary because you can browse shops and cafés while staying sheltered if the weather turns rainy.
If your trip overlaps with Thanksgiving, finish the day with a special dinner. You can seek out a traditional American Thanksgiving meal or do what I love about celebrating abroad and embrace the destination with a long Parisian dinner instead.
Day 5: Luxembourg Gardens + Shopping + Holiday Paris
Use your final day for a slower side of Paris. If the weather is clear, start with a walk through Luxembourg Gardens, then spend the afternoon shopping, revisiting a favorite neighborhood, or checking off anything you missed earlier in the trip.
If you’re visiting in the second half of November, make your final evening festive. See the department-store holiday displays or visit one of the Christmas markets operating during your dates before enjoying one last Parisian dinner.
Have an early flight? Move your shopping and holiday activities to another day and keep Day 5 flexible.
Extending your Europe trip? If you have more than five days, consider pairing Paris with another European city. Prague is especially atmospheric during the colder months, with historic streets, cozy cafés, and plenty to explore. Read my Prague itinerary for ideas on planning the next stop.
Budget and Money Tips
Paris isn’t the cheapest city, but November can actually save you money. Flights and hotels are generally less expensive than in peak summer. I mostly used my card everywhere and managed to get by without withdrawing any Euros, since most places accept credit and debit cards.
A few smaller cafés or bakeries may have a minimum card payment, so it’s helpful to carry a small amount of cash for purchases like a croissant or espresso.
For most transactions, especially in tourist areas and larger establishments, cards are widely accepted with no minimum charge, making it easy to pay as you go.
FAQs About Visiting Paris in November
Is November a good time to visit Paris?
Yes. November is a great time to visit Paris if you want fewer crowds, a slower pace, and cooler weather. Late November also brings the beginning of the holiday season, with festive lights, displays, and some Christmas markets.
What is the weather like in Paris in November?
Paris in November is typically cool and damp, with temperatures getting colder as the month progresses. Pack a warm coat, layers, water-resistant shoes, and an umbrella so you’re prepared for chilly or rainy days.
Does it snow in Paris in November?
Snow is possible in Paris in November, but it’s uncommon. You’re much more likely to experience cool temperatures, cloudy skies, and rain.
What should I wear in Paris in November?
Pack warm layers, a coat, sweaters, comfortable water-resistant shoes or boots, trousers or jeans, and a scarf. If you’re visiting later in November, a hat and gloves are also useful for colder mornings and evenings.
Are Christmas markets open in Paris in November?
Yes, some Paris Christmas markets begin opening in November, with more options available later in the month. Exact opening dates change each year, so check the dates for your trip before planning around a specific market.
How many days do you need in Paris?
Four to five days is a good amount of time for a first trip to Paris. It gives you time for major attractions, museums, neighborhoods, restaurants, and some flexibility if November weather changes your plans.
Final Thoughts: Paris in November
My quick holiday getaway to Paris was such a treat. It was wonderful to revisit some of my favorite spots while discovering new places along the way. Celebrating Thanksgiving in Paris reminded me that gratitude doesn’t always have to follow tradition; you can find it in simple moments and the company around you.
If you’re thinking about a trip this late fall, Paris in November is the perfect time to enjoy a quieter, more relaxed city. Pack your warm clothes, bring an open heart, and get ready to experience the City of Light in all its seasonal beauty.
If you’ve fallen in love with quieter, more atmospheric travel, you might also enjoy exploring some of Europe’s less crowded cities that shine outside peak season.
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