Paris Weather in April: Temperatures, Rain & Packing

What is the weather like in Paris in April? Typical temperatures, rainfall, sunshine hours and a packing list for a spring trip to Paris.

April is the month when Paris genuinely turns the corner into spring. Mornings still bite, but by mid-afternoon the light softens, chestnut trees start flowering along the boulevards, and outdoor cafe terraces fill up again. It is one of the most pleasant months of the year to walk the city, provided you dress for two temperatures at once.

Typical temperatures in April

Average daytime highs climb from around 13 to 14 C early in the month to 17 to 18 C by the end of April. Overnight lows sit near 5 C at the start and rise to about 8 C at month end. A warm push from the south can lift afternoons to 22 to 24 C for a day or two, and a cold snap from the north can drop them back to single digits. Both are normal.

Rain, sunshine and daylight

Expect around 45 to 55 mm of rain across roughly 6 to 8 days, mostly as short showers rather than long soaking rain. Sunshine averages about 6 hours a day. Daylight is generous by this point: sunrise near 7 am at the start of April moves to around 6:45 am by month end, with sunset stretching past 8:30 pm after the clocks change.

What to pack for Paris in April

A warm jacket or trench coat for mornings and evenings
A light jumper or cardigan to layer over a shirt or tee
Long trousers or jeans; a dress works with tights early in the month
Comfortable, water-resistant walking shoes
A compact umbrella and a light waterproof shell
A scarf for cool evenings along the Seine
Sunglasses and a small daypack

Early vs late April

The first half of April still feels late winter on some days: single-digit mornings, occasional wind, and the odd cold shower. From about the third week the balance tips clearly into spring, with warmer afternoons, blossoms in Parc Monceau and the Jardin du Luxembourg, and longer golden-hour light on the Haussmann facades.

Is April a good time to visit?

It is one of the best months. Crowds are lighter than summer, museum queues are shorter, and the gardens are at their prettiest. Easter week and the French spring school holidays are the busiest windows, so book accommodation earlier if your trip overlaps.

Frequently asked questions

What is the weather like in Paris in April?

April in Paris is mild spring weather. Daytime highs usually sit between 14 and 17 C, nights are cool at 5 to 8 C, and there are around 6 to 8 rainy days across the month. Sunshine averages around 6 hours a day and daylight stretches to about 14 hours by month end.

Is it cold in Paris in April?

Not cold, but not warm. Mornings and evenings feel chilly, especially early in the month. By late April, afternoons can reach 18 to 20 C on sunny days, though a cold snap dropping to single digits is still possible.

Does it rain a lot in Paris in April?

April sees around 45 to 55 mm of rain spread over 6 to 8 days. Showers are usually short rather than all-day downpours. A compact umbrella and a light waterproof jacket handle it comfortably.

What should I pack for Paris in April?

Layers. A warm jacket or trench, a light jumper or cardigan, long trousers or jeans, comfortable walking shoes, a scarf, a compact umbrella and sunglasses. Add a lighter top for warm afternoons and something warmer for evenings by the Seine.

Is April a good time to visit Paris?

Yes. Gardens like the Tuileries, Luxembourg and Parc Monceau come into bloom, cafe terraces reopen, and crowds are lighter than summer. Easter and school holidays are the busiest window.