Why Paris in May Is Pure Magic (And What to Do While You’re There)

✨ Paris in May: The City at Its Most Magical

Whenever someone tells me they’re visiting Paris in May, I get genuinely excited for them. There’s something truly special about the city this time of year — it’s as if Paris slowly stretches after winter and begins to smile again.

🌦 What to Pack: Light Layers Are Key

Don’t be fooled by the sunny afternoons — mornings and evenings still call for a spring jacket. I sometimes see tourists walking around in T-shirts at 9 a.m., and I shiver just looking at them!

That said, it’s absolutely sandal season. Dresses and skirts with a light shirt are perfect. The weather is balmy, not yet hot, and there’s still a fresh breeze in the air.

In France, we have a saying:
“En avril, ne te découvre pas d’un fil, en mai fais ce qu’il te plaît.”
Translation? In April, don’t take a thread off — but in May, do as you like.

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🍓 Markets, Sunshine, and the Joy of Spring

There’s nothing like cycling back from the market in the sunshine, feeling the first warmth of the season on your skin.

By now, the green grocer’s stalls are overflowing: melons, strawberries, nectarines, asparagus… After months of root vegetables and grey skies, these fresh ingredients feel like a celebration.

People are happier, lighter. Smiles (almost) everywhere. But let’s be honest — this is a parenthèse enchantée, a fleeting enchanted moment before the intense heat and grumpiness of July and August roll in.

🗺 Top Things to Do in Paris in May

If you’re planning a visit (or a staycation), here are some of my favorite things to do:

🗿 Visit the Musée Rodin
The sculpture garden alone is worth the trip.

🎨 Explore Fondation Louis Vuitton
Then wander into the nearby Jardins d’Acclimatation — perfect for a spring stroll.

🍷 Have a drink at Palais de Tokyo
Chic and slightly edgy, the perfect setting for a spring apéro.

🥖 Picnic by the Seine
Grab a bottle of wine, fresh bread, cheese, and charcuterie — and voilà, a perfectly Parisian evening.

🚲 Take a Vélib’ around town
No need for Lycra — this isn’t le Tour de France. Just ride slow and take in the city.

🛍️ Book a Paris Shopping Tour
Discover new designers and refine your style with the help of a Paris-based stylist and personal shopper.

💬 What About You?

Planning a trip to Paris this spring? Want more tips, hidden spots, or favorite restaurants?
Let me know in the comments — I’d love to share more.

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