Summer in Paris: Our Top Activity Ideas

In Paris during the summer, people spend more time outdoors, the days grow longer, and the city moves at a slightly more leisurely pace. From cultural events to outdoor walks and moments of relaxation, the capital offers a wealth of experiences. During your stay at Korner Hotels, here are a few ideas for making the most of Paris in the summer.

Enjoy Paris's parks and gardens

When temperatures rise, green spaces become the go-to places to relax.

• Luxembourg Gardens (6th arrondissement): perfect for a break in the shade or a stroll around the pond
• Buttes-Chaumont Park (19th): hills, grottoes, and lookout points with views of Paris
• Parc de la Villette (19th): wide-open spaces, cultural activities, and a summery vibe

Museums and exhibitions: the perfect choice when it's hot

Paris is full of cultural venues, perfect for escaping the heat while exploring major collections.

• Musée d’Orsay (7th arrondissement): Impressionist collections and temporary exhibitions
• Louvre Museum (1st): The Great Masterpieces of Art History
• Louis Vuitton Foundation (16th): remarkable architecture and contemporary programming

Summer is also a time when many exhibitions are extended and some museums offer late-night hours.

Take a stroll along the water

Paris in the summer can also be explored along the Seine and the canals.

• Banks of the Seine (1st, 7th): an ideal walk at the end of the day, with walking paths, terraces, and sunsets
• Canal Saint-Martin (10th): a relaxed atmosphere, cafés, and picnics by the water
• Seine cruises (16th): riverboats or evening cruises to see the illuminated monuments

Must-See Summer Events in Paris

Paris Plages, starting July 4, 2026

Every summer, Paris is transformed by Paris Plages. The banks of the Seine become true relaxation spots, featuring:

• deck chairs and shaded areas
• misting stations and entertainment
• free sports and cultural activities
• a summery atmosphere right in the heart of the city

Paris l’Été Festival (mid-June to mid-August)

The Festival Paris l’Été brings the capital to life throughout the summer. It features dance, theater, and performances at a variety of venues:

• the square in front of City Hall (4th)
• gardens and public spaces
• partner with cultural venues throughout the city

A festival that brings artistic creation into public spaces.

Summer Concerts and Evenings

Throughout the summer (June through September), Paris hosts many music events:

• open-air concerts in some parks, such as La Villette (19th arrondissement)
• DJ sets and summer parties at cultural venues such as Ground Control (13th) or La Recyclerie (18th) (depending on the program)
• one-time events and outdoor concerts around the Philharmonie de Paris (19th)

The atmosphere is often friendly and perfect for enjoying long summer evenings.

Art installations around the city

Summer also transforms Paris into an open-air gallery:

• Temporary installations on the banks of the Seine (1st, 7th)
• art trails in neighborhoods such as the Marais (3rd, 4th) or around Beaubourg (4th)
• exhibitions and installations in public spaces throughout the season

Explore Paris's neighborhoods. Summer is also the perfect time to discover Paris on foot.

• Le Marais (3rd, 4th): galleries, boutiques, and lively little streets
• Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th arrondissement): cafés, bookstores, and an elegant atmosphere
• Montmartre (18th): panoramic views and a village atmosphere

Each neighborhood offers a different experience!  

Enjoy summer evenings

When the heat subsides, Paris becomes even more enjoyable. It's the perfect time to experience the city in a new way, whether on rooftops, terraces, or on nighttime walks.

Rooftops with views of Paris

• Terrass’ Hotel Rooftop (18th): panoramic views of all of Paris—perfect at sunset
• Le Perchoir Ménilmontant (11th): a relaxed atmosphere, music, and views over the rooftops
• Gigi Paris (8th): a more elegant rooftop with views of the Eiffel Tower

Lively terraces for dinner or a drink

• Holybelly (10th): very lively in the evening, perfect for a simple, tasty dinner
• Café de Flore (6th arrondissement): iconic, for a classic Parisian atmosphere
• Rosa Bonheur (19th and 12th): a modern guinguette, with a very summery and festive atmosphere

Nighttime walks along the Seine

• Alexandre III Bridge → Pont des Arts: one of the most beautiful routes at sunset
• Banks of the Seine (Left Bank): a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a late-evening walk
• Île Saint-Louis (4th): a quiet little stroll, very pleasant at night