Summer in Paris: our best activity ideas

In Paris in summer, people spend more time outdoors, the days grow longer and the city moves at a slightly calmer pace. Between cultural events, 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 summer.

Enjoy Paris parks and gardens

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

• Jardin du Luxembourg (6th): ideal for a break in the shade or a stroll around the pond
• Parc des Buttes-Chaumont (19th): hills, grottoes and lookouts with views over Paris
• Parc de la Villette (19th): wide open spaces, cultural activities and a summery vibe

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

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

• Musée d’Orsay (7th): Impressionist collections and temporary exhibitions
• Louvre Museum (1st): the great masterpieces of art history
• Fondation Louis Vuitton (16th): remarkable architecture and contemporary programming

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

Stroll along the water

Paris in 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 pedestrian paths, terraces and sunsets
• Canal Saint-Martin (10th): a relaxed atmosphere, cafés and picnics by the water
• Seine cruises (16th): bateaux-mouches or evening cruises to see the illuminated monuments

Must-see summer events in Paris

Paris Plages, from July 4, 2026

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

• deckchairs and shaded areas
• misting stations and entertainment
• free sports and cultural activities
• a summer atmosphere right in the city center

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

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

• the square in front of the Hôtel de Ville (4th)
• gardens and public spaces
• partner cultural venues across the city

A festival that brings artistic creation out into public spaces.

Summer concerts and evenings

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

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

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

Art installations around the city

Summer also turns 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 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): cafés, bookshops and an elegant atmosphere
• Montmartre (18th): panoramic views and a village feel

Each neighborhood offers a different experience!  

Enjoy summer evenings

When the heat eases off, Paris becomes even more enjoyable. It's the perfect time to experience the city differently, between rooftops, terraces and night-time walks.

Rooftops with views over Paris

• Terrass’’ Hotel Rooftop (18th): panoramic views over all of Paris, perfect at sunset
• Le Perchoir Ménilmontant (11th): 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): iconic, for a classic Parisian atmosphere
• Rosa Bonheur (19th and 12th): a modern guinguette, very summery and festive

Night-time walks along the Seine

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