PARIS IN THE SPRING

Paris in the spring is so renowned that a song was even written about it in 1935, and immortalized into a movie of the same name.  You may even find yourself humming the tune as you develop a love affair with the beautiful city streets of Paris.  Spring is an invitation for the city’s parks and gardens to shake off the gloom of winter and reveal their magnificent colors, and you’ll be awed by the sight of the awakening city.  You’ll be joined by throngs of tourists looking to experience Paris in all its springtime splendor, so be prepared for the crowds and long lines at the city’s major attractions.  Photo opportunities are rampant at this time of year and you’ll want to keep your camera fully charged to take advantage of this one of a kind experience.

Booking your trip to Paris in the springtime requires lots of advanced planning since, rightfully so, spring is the season when tourists from all over the world are dying to experience Paris.  Be prepared for higher airfare and hotel prices during this peak season, and keep in mind that a last minute trip to Paris may cost you a small fortune. The long lines at the Arc du Triomphe and the Musee du Louvre will give you plenty time to make new friends and familiarise yourself with maps of the city.

Number one on your list of things to do should definitely be a visit to as many of Paris’ parks and gardens as you can fit into your itinerary.  Jardin du Luxembourg is the ideal location to lounge in the cool air and watch Parisian children dusting off their vintage wooden sail boats for a fun time in the Grand Bassin pond located here.  You can also enjoy puppet show season at Theatre du Luxembourg, or casually stroll through Musee du Luxembourg marveling at the new exhibits that pop up during springtime.  Chateau de Versailles is never as beautiful as it is in the spring, and you’ll be treated to the magnificent Les Grandes Eaux Musical or Musical Fountain Show featuring classical music that starts in late spring each year.

There’s no shortage of entertainment on Paris’ city streets either, since spring is the time when mimes, clowns, living statues and musicians showcase their talents.  You’ll be serenaded by talented musicians as you browse areas such as Pont St-Louis, Place Georges Pompidou and Place Joachim du Bellay, all located near must-see attractions in Paris.  Of course, no trip to Paris would be complete without visiting the Eiffel Tower, especially on a clear spring day.  You can see Paris in its entirety standing on the glass flooring of the 1st floor, or indulge in some world class cuisine at the 58 Tour Eiffel restaurant, or the Le Jules Verne.  Views of the Eiffel Tower from the ground are also breathtaking, so enjoy picturesque views of this monument set in the springtime blue skies from cafes and restaurants in the area, such as Les Ombres or Cafe Branly.

Walking tours are in full swing at this time of year, so you’ll be able to fully appreciate the lovely weather as you explore the city on a guided tour.  You can visit all the popular Paris sights on a bus tour, and even take a day trip outside the city to experience the French countryside in the spring.   Of course, you’ll want to visit the city’s two islands, Ile de Cite and Ile St. Louis, where you can explore old world boutiques and watch the sunlight make magic with the dazzling stained glass windows of the Notre Dame Cathedral and Saint Chapelle.  Relaxing near the river Seine has never been more enjoyable, so find a comfortable bench in the Square Jean XXIII where you’ll be surrounded by the fragrance of blooming cherry blossoms.  The world famous Berthillon ice cream shop is also nearby, so take the opportunity to indulge in a sweet treat while you enjoy the sights.

Canal St. Martin is also an excellent location for enjoying the season.  You’ll watch the vintage swing bridges in action as canal boats cruise along the canal. You can explore trendy boutiques as you stroll along the leafy paths, but watch out for cyclists taking advantage of the warmer weather.  Al fresco dining is at its peak during the springtime, especially at the more affordable bistros and cafes in the city.  La Mascotte and Upper Cremerie are two places frequented by Parisians and tourists alike, and offer splendid views of the nearby Eiffel Tower.  Trendy Le Marais offers lovely brunch spots as well, so when you’re in the area try to get a table at Mini Palais or in Derriere’s hidden courtyard.  Modern French cuisine is available at Chez Nathalie in the 13th arrondissement.  You can lunch at Le Square in the Left Bank, or indulge in some gourmet dishes at Le Comptoir du Relais, if there are tables available.  Open-air market streets are also worth exploring, such as Marche Bastille, where you can get fresh seasonal produce ideal for an outdoor picnic in one of the city’s picturesque parks.

Some of Paris’ museums are at their best during springtime, such as Musee Rodin, housed in the former art studio of sculptor and painter Auguste Rodin.  Here you’ll find Rodin’s L’Eternal Printemps or Eternal Spring, an exquisite statue of two lovers embracing, but the gardens of the museum are what will stay with you long after you return home.  Roses are in full bloom, and amongst them you’ll find famous sculptures such as The Thinker.  Wooden sun lounges invite you to join this iconic statue in contemplating the meaning of life as you relax in the fragrant spring air.  While Musee Marmottan-Monet isn’t as popular as the world famous Louvre, its proximity to the Jardins du Ranelagh makes it a great place to visit during the spring.  Visiting Musee de l’Orangerie, located in the splendid Jardin des Tuileries should also be on the agenda if you want the chance to wander through the gardens after you’ve seen the works of art inside.

Average temperatures and rainfall:	Minimum	Maximum	Rain in mm
March	4°C	12°C	35
April	6°C	16°C	42
May	10°C	20°C	57