The Best Things To Do In Paris, May 2026 – Spring Continues In The City

We love May in Paris — it feels like we're in the City of Eternal Spring. Walking almost anywhere in the city is a delight. The city's gardens are flourishing and the streets buzzing with life. The warmer weather makes it perfect for outdoor activities, a visit to Monet's gardens at Giverny or the French Open at Roland Garros.

From acclaimed landmarks to seasonal Paris events, the list of things to do in Paris feels almost limitless. Attend the Jazz Festival at Saint-Germain-des-Prés, arrange a glorious dinner cruise on the Seine, or head to the Grand Palais for A Taste of Paris expo.

As the days grow longer, Paris invites us to slow down and savor its Gallic energy. May is the time to enjoy the city's finest offerings, and immerse yourself in history, art, and cuisine for unforgettable experiences.

Esprit de Paris – The Top Experiences

Things to Do in Paris May 2026

Bateaux Parisiens VIP Dinner Cruise

This VIP dinner cruise gets you a prime table in the front of the boat for the best views of the city's must-see attractions. As you dine aboard the classy bateau, performers entertain you with live music while you take in the city lights. Choose the Service Privilège option for the best seating, the best meal, and champagne — the ultimate experience.

Springtime Splendor at Versailles

Marvel at the grandeur of Versailles with a skip-the-line tour: it's one of the top things to do in Paris. See the iconic Hall of Mirrors, the royal apartments, the lush gardens in their full springtime glory. An expert guide brings the history of French royalty to life as you goggle at this magnificent estate. Don't forget to visit Marie Antoinette's charming hamlet and farm, where pastoral beauty meets royal elegance.

A Belle Époque Dinner on the Seine

Return to the elegance of Paris's golden era with a dinner cruise by Maxim's of Paris. Savor a three-course menu inspired by the Belle Époque, featuring dishes that celebrate the essence of French gastronomy. As the boat glides gently along the Seine, take in panoramic views of the illuminated landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower and Pont Alexandre III. Live music adds to the experience, making every moment memorable.

The Louvre's Most Famous Treasures

Celebrate the beauty of art with a guided tour of the Louvre's masterpieces. With pre-reserved tickets you skip the lines and focus on the art, including the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace. Your expert guide enriches your visit with in-depth stories and insights. This tour is a perfect complement to the weather outside, blending cultural discovery with the charm of Paris in high springtime.

See Paris in Bloom from the Eiffel Tower

Make the most of your visit to Paris with a skip-the-line tour of the Eiffel Tower. It's a great feeling bypassing the crowds and going up the Tower, where breathtaking views await. A guide enhances the experience with fascinating details about the tower's history. Marvel at the city's vibrant May landscape below you. A priority-access tour is the very best way to enjoy Paris with a birds-eye view.

A Glittering Evening at the Moulin Rouge

In spring the Moulin Rouge shines brighter than ever — a perfect time to experience its magic. Sit down to a classic Belle Époque dinner menu with champagne before the curtain rises on the Féerie cabaret show. Over 100 performers bring Parisian culture to life with breathtaking costumes and dazzling choreography. An evening at this historic venue is a memorable mix of glamour, artistry, and Parisian nightlife.

A Culinary Voyage Along the Seine

Discover the magic of Paris at night on a Bateaux Mouches dinner cruise. Dine on a 4-course French meal accompanied by live music. As the boat glides along the Seine, take in stunning views of illuminated landmarks like Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower. A dinner cruise fuses the best of Parisian gastronomy with the unforgettable beauty of the city: an experience you won't soon forget.

Savor the Season in St-Germain-des-Prés

Get outside in the May weather on a culinary journey through St-Germain-des-Prés. This expert-led tour pairs fine champagnes with a selection of cheeses and decadent pastries — a true taste of Paris. Stroll through the historic streets of the Left Bank as your guide relates the cultural and artistic heritage of this quartier. The Paris streets in springtime make this tour a delightful way to explore the charm of one of the city's prized districts.

Paris Abloom in Classical Music

In May, Enjoy performances of classical music in historic churches with performances of works by Debussy, Ravel, and other masters. The interplay of lush melodies and stunning architectural settings creates a moving and memorable experience. Whether you're drawn to the serene atmosphere or the world-class artistry, these concerts provide a perfect cultural escape.

Dine on the Eiffel Tower at Madame Brasserie

One of the best things to do in Paris is to skip the lines at the Eiffel Tower when you have a dinner reservation at restaurant Madame Brasserie. Chef Thierry Marx is getting glowing reviews about the service and the stellar multi-course French meal. To our way of thinking, dining on the Eiffel Tower is an essential Paris experience. Lunch is also available.

Impressionist Masterpieces of Musée d'Orsay

Of all the art-related things to do in Paris a visit Musée d'Orsay & Impressionist treasures are at the top of our list. This guided tour reveals to you the brilliance of Monet's water lilies, Renoir's lively portraits, and Van Gogh's portraits. The museum's open galleries and stunning architecture make for a glorious setting for these timeless works. Once the tour concludes, take your time to explore the museum's unparalleled collection.

Evening Bike Ride Through Parisian Streets

May's mild evenings set the perfect stage for a guided night bike tour through Paris. Cycle past celebrated sights like the Champs-Elysées, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower as they glow in the city's evening lights. Your adventure concludes with a relaxing Seine River cruise, where you can admire Paris from the water. Sip a glass of wine as the shimmering reflections of the city provide a captivating finale to your evening.

Historic Highlights of Île de la Cité

Pedal through the historic heart of Paris on a guided tour of Île de la Cité. Marvel at the grandeur of Notre-Dame Cathedral as your guide relates its history and cultural importance. Step into Sainte-Chapelle to witness spectacular stained-glass windows. This tour unfolds Île de la Cité's enduring role as the epicenter of Parisian history, and presents a closer look at the city's most revered landmarks.

A Parisian Day to Remember

Spring provides the perfect backdrop for this unforgettable day. Start with lunch on the Eiffel Tower, enjoying the views and top-notch cuisine. Next up: a scenic Seine River cruise, gliding past landmarks such as the Pont Neuf. Wrap up your adventure with a guided tour of the Louvre, exploring its massive collection of masterpieces. Can you see Paris in one day? Maybe so!

Luxury Transfers Made Simple

Begin your time in Paris with a private airport transfer tailored for comfort and convenience. Your professional driver will be waiting upon arrival, ready to assist with your luggage and provide a smooth ride directly to your hotel. Skip the confusion of taxis or public transit and enjoy a relaxed introduction to the city. This pre-arranged service ensures you arrive refreshed and ready to experience all the magic Paris has to offer.

Experience the Best of the Left Bank

For a quintessential Parisian stay, the Left Bank is unbeatable. This district, once frequented by Hemingway and the greats of the Jazz Age, offers a mix of historic allure and contemporary comfort. Saint-Germain-des-Prés is all about charming streets, boutique shops, and stylish hotels that exude Parisian elegance. From luxurious retreats to hidden gems, the top Left Bank hotels will make your visit memorable.

The Wonders of Versailles

Things to Do in Paris May 2026

Versailles and Giverny in Their Prime

It's the best of French art and history on this full-day tour to Versailles and Claude Monet's gardens in Giverny. At Versailles a guided tour introduces the opulence of the chateau and gardens. Continue on to Giverny to see Monet's famous water lily pond, the Japanese bridge, and his colorful flower beds. The tour includes transportation, guides, and a classic French lunch — enjoy two famed landmarks at their most beautiful.

Versailles: Royal Splendor in Half a Day

Enjoy a relaxing visit to Versailles with this priority-access, half-day guided tour. From central Paris this tour takes you straight to the heart of the royal estate. Explore the renowned Hall of Mirrors, the private royal apartments, and the landscaped gardens. Your guide enriches the experience with engaging stories of court life and the history of the chateau. An excellent way to see Versailles.

Bike, Picnic & Explore Versailles

Escape the ordinary with a guided bike tour of Versailles that combines history, nature, and a bit of exercise. Ride through the countryside to a local market to gather supplies for a picnic in the royal gardens. After a meal surrounded by beauty, use your priority-access tickets to discover the splendor of the palace. This is an invigorating and unique way to experience Versailles, something you won't soon forget.

Your Own Private Versailles

If you'd like a royal experience, book this private tour of Versailles that begins with a private driver meeting you at your Paris address. At the estate connect with a professional guide who takes you through the Versailles experience. It's a day of luxury for just you and your party, and perfect if you don't want to spend a full day at the royal estate.

Glorious Day Trips From Paris

Things to Do in Paris May 2026

Explore France's D-Day Heritage

From Paris, travel to Normandy for a memorable day exploring the D-Day landing beaches. Visit Omaha Beach and Utah Beach, learn about the Allied invasion, and pay tribute at the American Cemetery. Your guide shares insights into the significance of these historic sites. The tour also includes a visit to a Normandy cider house for a tasting, offering a glimpse into the region's traditions.

Champagne in Full Bloom

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Champagne region in spring. From Paris, you drive through verdant vineyards and picturesque villages. Visit prestigious champagne producers, learn the art of blending, and enjoy tastings of their finest cuvées. A gourmet French lunch at a boutique winery shows off the region's culinary excellence. The tour also includes a visit to historic Reims Cathedral.

Monet's Gardens at Their Best

The magic of Claude Monet's gardens in Giverny is on display during this half-day tour. The small-group adventure includes transportation from Paris and a guided tour of Monet's house and lush gardens. Stroll the paths, admire the lily pond, and stand on the famous Japanese bridge. With the gardens blossoming, this is an unforgettable glimpse into the world of one of Impressionism's greatest masters.

The Loire Valley – Chateaux & Wines

Delight in the grandeur of the Loire Valley on a day trip from Paris to its most storied castles — Chambord, Chenonceau, and Amboise. Stroll through gardens bursting with color, explore the castle interiors, and learn about their fascinating histories. A wine tasting introduces you to the region's renowned vintages. immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes and the beauty and heritage of Renaissance France.

Mont Saint-Michel's Majestic Appeal

Experience the glory that is Mont Saint-Michel on a full-day tour from Paris. Travel through the Normandy countryside to reach this stunning island. Visit the medieval abbey, stroll through quaint streets, and admire sweeping views of the bay. Your guide brings the island's past to life with stories of its origins and significance. End the day with a cider tasting, showcasing the region's culinary heritage.

Delectable Food & Wine Experiences

Things to Do in Paris May 2026

A Unique Cheese Experience in Paris

Dive into the world of French cheese with an exclusive tasting in a Parisian cheese cellar. Guided by a master affineur, enjoy seven varieties of perfectly aged cheeses, each paired with wines chosen to complement their flavors. From buttery Brie to tangy Roquefort, discover the diversity and craftsmanship behind French cheese. Be sure to put this culinary adventure on your things to do in Paris list.

A Journey Through French Wines

Discover the diversity of French wines during a guided tasting in a Parisian wine cellar. Sample a variety of renowned wines, including Sancerre, Bordeaux, and Champagne, while learning about their regional origins and unique characteristics. Expert sommeliers guide you through the experience, sharing insights into French winemaking traditions. Located just a short walk from the Louvre, this tasting equips you for your next visit to a wine store!

Culinary Specialities of Montmartre

Explore Montmartre, the artistic heart of Paris, on a guided walking tour that showcases its culinary treasures. Sample traditional French foods like artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and pastries, paired with selected wines. Wander the quartier's narrow streets and bustling squares as your guide shares stories of its bohemian history. The tour ends with breathtaking views of Paris from the hilltop.

Saint-Germain's Patisserie Secrets

Treat yourself to the finest chocolates and pastries Paris has to offer on this guided tour of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Visit renowned chocolatiers & patisseries and taste signature creations while your guide shares the history and craftsmanship. From macarons to truffles, this experience is a feast for the senses. The small group ensures there are more samples for you!

The Marais Food Tour Experience

In the Marais, a district renowned for its culinary scene, sign on for this walking food tour. Taste a variety of French classics, from cheeses and charcuterie to chocolates and crusty baguettes. A visit to the city's oldest food market adds a layer of authenticity, while wine pairings highlight the flavors of the tastings. Your guide brings the area's history to life, and this small-group tour is a lovely blend of food, culture, and discovery.

Learn the Art of Croissants with a Parisian Chef

Flaky, buttery croissants are a culinary treasure of France. Sure, you can simply eat lots of croissants and pains au chocolat during your time in Paris. But, why not learn how to bake them yourself during this hands-on, small-group pastry class? The small-group setting ensures plenty of guidance. Unlock the techniques behind crafting the perfect croissant, from dough preparation to folding and baking.

A Parisian Luncheon on the Seine

Bathe in Parisian charm on a gourmet lunch cruise. Dine on a multi-course French meal while floating past landmarks like the Louvre and Île de la Cité. The boat's panoramic windows offer uninterrupted views of the city — a blend of fine dining and sightseeing. For the best experience, choose Premier Service with exclusive seating and champagne.

French Cooking Made Simple: Market & Kitchen Tour

Hone your French cooking skills in a small-group cooking class in Paris. Begin your day at an outdoor market, where a local chef helps you choose the finest ingredients. Then, return to the kitchen to create a three-course meal, learning techniques that bring out the best in French flavors. Afterward, enjoy your culinary masterpiece paired with wine. This immersive class is a fun and informative way to explore the city's food culture.

French Food Highlights Private Tour

It's a good feeling being an insider. This private tour gets you to the most exquisite culinary destinations in Paris, all in one evening. François, your French food & wine guide, ushers you to insider's restaurants, boulangeries, and cheese shops to taste the best of the city's culinary treasures. Bring your walking shoes and your appetite! This is one of our new favorites and the reviews are spectacular.

What's On at the Museums

Things to Do in Paris May 2026

See the Louvre's Highlights with Ease

Skip the wait and step directly into the Louvre on a guided tour designed to showcase its most famous works. Admire the beauty of Venus de Milo, the mystery of the Mona Lisa, and the grandeur of Winged Victory. Your guide provides compelling details about these masterpieces, making the visit both informative and enjoyable. This tour is a stress-free way to appreciate the art and history of the world's largest museum.

The Art of Cimabue Reimagined

A closer look at Cimabue's masterpieces reveals his revolutionary contributions to the art world. This exhibition highlights his role in shaping Western painting, focusing on his skillful use of light and narrative to convey spiritual depth. An inspiring homage to a true pioneer of the Renaissance.
• The Louvre
• Information…

Timeless Art + Haute Couture

Haute couture takes inspiration from the Louvre's masterpieces in this extraordinary exhibition. From flowing fabrics to intricate details, the garments reinterpret classical themes with a modern twist, demonstrating the rich relationship between art history and fashion. It's celebration of elegance and creativity, bridging the gap between past and present.
• Louvre
• Ends July 21, 2025
• Information…

Masterpieces in Conversation: The Met at the Louvre

This extraordinary exhibition unites masterpieces from The Met and the Louvre, placing them in a thought-provoking dialogue. By juxtaposing works from diverse periods and regions, it highlights artistic parallels and differences, offering new insights into the cultural and historical threads that connect these world-renowned collections..
• Louvre
• Ends September 28, 2025
• Information…

Urban Spaces in Artistic Vision

Streets are reimagined as stages for creativity in this engaging exhibition. Highlighting works from various periods, it traces the evolution of urban-inspired art. From the Parisian boulevards of the Impressionists to cutting-edge street art, the collection captures the essence of city life and its influence on artistic innovation.
• Musée d'Orsay
• Ends July 06, 2025
• Information…

The Dreyfus Affair: A Turning Point in Justice

The exhibition at the Jewish museum in Paris explores the cultural and political ripples of the Dreyfus Affair, presenting documents and artifacts that reflect its role in shaping modern views on human rights and justice. It examines the struggle for truth amid prejudice, highlighting the enduring significance of this historical event.
• Musée d'Art et d'Histoire du Judaïsme
• Ends August 31, 2025
• Information…

Boudin's Artistic Evolution

Eugene Boudin's journey, from apprentice to plein air pioneer, celebrates nature's beauty through serene coastal scenes and luminous skies. His work bridges realism and Impressionism. As part of May's Paris events, this exhibition showcases the artist's evolution and pivotal role in art history.

• Musée Marmatton Monet
• Ends August 31, 2005
• Information…

Déserts – The Science of Arid Lands

Explore how deserts shape the planet, from their geological formations to the specialized life they harbor. This exhibition reveals the intricate dynamics of these unique landscapes and the role they play in global ecosystems.
• Natural History Museum
• April 2 to November 30
• Information…

Hockney's Canvas of Color and Light

Color bursts from every corner of David Hockney's work, radiating vitality and movement. This retrospective reveals the layers of his creativity, from sun-drenched California pools to the Yorkshire countryside. His mastery of light and perspective transforms ordinary scenes into extraordinary celebrations of the world around us, proving that the everyday can be endlessly inspiring.
• Ends January 9, 2026
• Information…

Marguerite Matisse: More Than a Muse

Marguerite was more than a model for her father, Henri Matisse. She was an artist in her own right, a critical mind, and a trusted confidante. The works at this MAM exhibition trace her presence in Matisse's studio, where her quiet strength is unmistakable. Her role in his life extended beyond sitting for portraits, shaping his artistic vision in ways that are often overlooked.
• Musée de Art Moderne
• Ends August 24
• Information…

Agnes Varda: Paris in Cinema

The life and work of Agnes Varda reveal Paris as a muse for her films and photography. This exhibition presents her intimate exploration of the city's streets and its people. It's a rare opportunity to see how Varda's creativity was shaped by her connection to the French capital.

• Musée Carnavalet
• Ends August 24, 2025
• Information…

Art Beyond the Ordinary – Gabriele Münter

Gabriele Münter's vibrant landscapes and intimate portraits reflect her exploration of color and form. As a member of the Blaue Reiter movement, Münter's work stands as a testament to her innovative approach and the emotional depth she brought to early 20th-century modernism.

• Paris Museum of Modern Art
• Ends August 24, 2025
• Information…

Christian Krohg's Stories of the North

Through evocative portraits and scenes, Christian Krohg portrays the people and landscapes of the North with striking realism. His works capture the harshness of daily life alongside moments of quiet beauty, offering a profound exploration of Nordic identity and resilience. The exhibition celebrates his role as a leading figure in social realism.

• Musée d'Orsay
• March 25 to July 27, 2025
• Information…

Lucas Arruda: Painting Beyond the Horizon

With a focus on light and subtle detail, Lucas Arruda's paintings transcend traditional landscapes, offering windows into atmospheric and introspective worlds. His works bridge abstraction and realism, creating scenes that evoke both serenity and mystery. The exhibition showcases Arruda's distinctive approach to capturing nature's fleeting essence..

• Musée d'Orsay
• March 25 to July 27, 2025
• Information…

A Life in Color: Suzanne Valadon's Journey

Suzanne Valadon's works are imbued with energy and individuality, transforming familiar subjects into powerful expressions of her unique vision. Through bold brushstrokes and a fearless approach to form, she redefined artistic standards and left a lasting legacy in modern art. The exhibition highlights her journey from muse to celebrated artist.

• Centre Pompidou
• Ends May 26, 2025
• Information…

The Evolution of Jewelry Creation

Dessins de Bijoux highlights the evolution of jewelry design through fascinating sketches, from initial inspirations to completed masterpieces. Featuring works by renowned creators, it traces how artistic ideas materialize into precious ornaments, offering an intimate look at the interplay between creativity and technical precision in jewelry making.

• Petit Palais
• Ends July 20, 2025
• Information…

Hans Hollein: A Visionary of Radical Design

Hans Hollein's architectural legacy stands as a testament to his pioneering spirit and postmodernist vision. With works influenced by informal and conceptual art, his creations span from trademark facades to radical architectural forms. The exhibition offers a comprehensive look at how Hollein reshaped the narrative of design across five transformative decades.

• Centre Pompidou
• March 05 to June 02, 2025
• Information…

Blurring the Line Between Real & Imagined

David Claerbout's art is about more than just visuals; it's an experience. By merging still images with moving ones, he creates works that feel both familiar and surreal. This exhibition brings together pieces that play with memory, time, and space, inviting visitors to engage deeply with each scene's hidden layers.

• Musée de l'Orangerie
• Ends June 0, 2025
• Information…

A New Vision of Art Post-1945

Out of Focus explores how art evolved in the wake of global upheaval. Highlighting works from 1945 to the present, the exhibition brings together pieces that redefine artistic expression. Through abstraction, distortion, and unconventional methods, these creations reflect the shifting landscapes of culture and creativity.

• Musée de l'Orangerie
• Ends August 18, 2025
• Information…

Paris Noir: A Cosmopolitan Legacy

Paris Noir celebrates the vibrant artistic and political contributions of African and Afro-descendant artists in Paris between 1950 and 2000. Through 150 groundbreaking works, it reflects on themes of identity, anticolonial resistance, and transcultural dialogue, showcasing Paris as a critical site of creativity and activism in shaping modern art.

• Centre Pompidou
• March 19 to June 30, 2025
• Information…

Fun Paris Events

Things to Do in Paris May 2026

Fête du Travail – May Day

Next to Bastille Day, May Day — May 1st — is the most popular holiday of the year in France and one of the biggest Paris events. Be on the look-out for lily-of-the-valley flowers which are a symbol of good luck in France. You'll see them for sale at flower vendors on nearly every street corner. Most shops and museums are closed to celebrate France's Labor Day, so it's a good day to plan an activity like a lunch cruise or a gourmet walking tour.

The French Open

As one of the top Paris events, the French Open is a highlight on the city's spring calendar. This Grand Slam tennis tournament, the only one played on red clay, begins in late May at the iconic Roland Garros stadium. For tennis fans, it's a chance to witness some of the year's most dramatic matches, with red clay courts adding an extra layer of intensity to the competition.

• May 19 to June 8, 2025
• Information…

Jazz Festival at Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Hear top jazz performances in the heart of Paris. Created in 2001, this Paris Jazz Festival is held in Saint-Germain-des-Prés and is another reason to go to Paris in the Spring. Doesn't get much better than this!

• May 12 to 19, 2025
• Information…

French National Holidays

In addition to La Fête du Travail (Labour Day) there are four more big French National Holidays in May that cause shops and museums to be closed when you might not expect it!

• La Fête du Travail – May 1
• World War II Victory Day – May 8
• Ascension Day – May 9
• Whit Sunday – May 19
• Whit Monday – May 20

Foire de Paris – The Grand Paris Expo

As one of the most anticipated Paris events, the Foire de Paris has been a staple for over 100 years. This massive home and lifestyle show brings together more than 3,500 European brands, showcasing the latest French decorating and home trends. It's a one-stop destination for inspiration, offering everything from innovative household gadgets to stylish furniture and cutting-edge design ideas

• Paris Expo, Porte de Versailles
• Ends May 11, 2025
• Information…

La Fête de la Victoire

On this French National Holiday, remembering the end of World War II in Europe, the President of France will lay flowers on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to honor the liberation of France.

• May 8, 2025
• Arc de Triomphe

Nuit Européenne des Musées

As one of the most celebrated Paris events, Nuit des Musées invites you to experience the city's museums after dark with free admission and extended hours. Wander through iconic galleries, marvel at special exhibits, and soak up the unique atmosphere created by nighttime art and culture. It's a rare opportunity to enjoy Parisian museums in an entirely new light — literally.

• May 12, 2025 (check website for confirmation)
• Website…

Taste of Paris

Join top chefs along with food and wine producers in a line-up of dazzling cooking demonstrations and tastings. While the Grand Palais is undergoing renovation, the 2025 edition of the food fest will take place in the temporary Grand Palais venue on Champ de Mars.

• Grand Palais Éphémère
• May 8 to 11, 2025
• Information…