I’ve been to Paris five times since the year 2000, and each time I discover something new. Here’s what I learned on my most recent trip in May …
- Metro Line 6 between station Passy and Bir-Hakeim gives you the most beautiful view of the Eiffel Tower. Stand on the north side of the train to watch.
- The Paris Catacombs book up fast and are definitely worth a visit! This is a spooky adventure into history that is not famous enough. If you want to visit, you’ll need to book it at least a week in advance to get the time and day you want.
- If you plan on biking, don’t be too cool for school and skip the helmet. Just get it, and wear it. Biking tours are the best, but can also be dangerous.
Of course, over the past 20+ years, I’ve also honed my ideal packing list for Paris, which is why you’re probably here…
Paris Weather In May & June
Paris weather in May and June is a trickster and the weather app does not help. It will say it’s currently sunny, while you’re standing in the rain, and vice versa. While I was there a couple of weeks ago, no matter how lovely a day started out, it always ended up raining later on. Generally, it rained for about an hour every afternoon, but it was sunny before and after. If you forget an umbrella, like most Parisians, be prepared to set up shop inside a café for at least an hour, or join the masses underneath the trees or in a doorway. Only one day of my week in Paris was it raining for the entire day.
Many people commented that climate change is really messing with the weather trends in Paris. But one thing is for certain, be prepared for both rain and shine. With that in mind, here’s what to pack for the Paris weather in June…
What To Pack For Paris: Portable Umbrella
You want a strong but lightweight portable umbrella for the rainy bouts or rainy days. Your umbrella needs to be portable and lightweight because most of the time you won’t be using it. But don’t skip it! The rain can be brief, but mighty.
What To Pack For Paris: Midi or Short Dresses
Never pack maxi dresses for Paris! You will trip on the hem walking up the many stairs, it can drop into puddles, get soaked by the rain, or all of the above (which is what happened to me). Stick to midi dresses or short dresses. These lengths will pair better with sneakers anyhow if you want to walk all day in a dress. Sneakers don’t work with maxi dresses, since they catch on the hem and shorten the body. You will probably want about two dresses for a week long trip in Paris.
What To Pack For Paris: Separates
Although you definitely want a dress or two for sunny days and nicer nights out, I found separates to be a better choice for most days since there is so much walking and weather changes. You want a combination of casual tops, like a t-shirt or tank top, and nicer tops for “cuter” looks. Wearing a tank top under a long-sleeved item was a lifesaver for all the temperature changes from rain to shine, and outdoor to indoor locations.
What To Pack For Paris: Straight-leg Pants or Jeans
If you plan on biking (which I cannot recommend enough!) you need to wear straight-leg (not wide-leg) pants or jeans. You don’t want to be fussing with a dress or get a wide-leg pant caught on the mechanics of the bike. Also, it gets cold when it rains, so you’ll want the coverage.
What To Pack For Paris: Stylish Water Resistant Hat
A stylish waterproof hat could be helpful during the famous misty rains that feel like you’re being spit on. This type of rain doesn’t necessitate an umbrella, but it will eventually soak your head and face if you are outdoors too long. I don’t recommend a hood because it will hinder your view of the Parisian beauty.
What To Pack For Paris: An All-Day Bag
If you are out and about all day, you need a fantastic lightweight crossbody bag and/or a lightweight tote bag. The weather changes so wildly throughout the day that you need a place to put your umbrella, layers, water bottle, and of course, anything you purchase. I recommend packing a versatile crossbody bag and a cloth tote bag that you can roll up into the bag when you don’t need it.
If you want a bag that can do it all, I recommend a medium-sized waterproof bag, like the one featured above. Then pack a smaller cute bag for any nicer nights out.
What To Pack For Paris: A Packable Jacket
I know it is not the chicest of outerwear, but a versatile packable lightweight warm jacket will be heaven during the rain, and a savior when it can be shoved into your purse when you don’t need it. I also recommend packing a lightweight blazer. It will have just enough warmth and coverage for the warmer days. Here are my current favorite options:
What To Pack For Paris: Cool Sneaker Looks
Put together your best outfits that pair with sneakers. This way you won’t look like a tourist, but you will be comfortable enough to walk 20,000 steps. This was especially helpful on the day I went to the Foundation Louis Vuitton museum. It is situated inside the Bois de Boulogne, which is essentially a forest. I spent hours walking the trails before spending 2 hours walking the museum. I logged 30,000 steps that day.
What To Pack For Paris: Versatile Walking Shoes
Do not pack any shoes that you can’t spend an hour walking in. If you are really experiencing Paris, you will be walking constantly during the day. As for the night, so much delight can happen when you’re walking after a meal or a drink. You don’t want to miss out on that because you decided to wear uncomfortable heels for a night out. With this in mind, I recommend you pack the following 3-4 comfortable walking shoes…
- Versatile yet comfy sandals that work for day to night
- Chic sneakers
- Dressy sandals with a 1.5 block heel or lower
- Waterproof sneakers if you are a runner like me, or don’t like to get your feet wet
