travel to france in september

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France in September

September is a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors in France, as the temperatures have already started to cool. This means you’re unlikely to experience the extreme temperatures we can get in France in August .

Toward the end of September, you may even get to see the beginning of the fall colors. This is an ideal time of year for hiking or cycling, enjoying days at the beach, or visiting one of France's many beautiful gardens , parks or vineyards.

In this post, we’ve listed some places that are great to visit in September, as well as some activities and experiences you might enjoy on a driving tour of France . We’ll also talk a bit about the September weather in France, and festivals and events that take place in September.

France Weather in September

In September, the weather in France begins to cool down as summer moves into fall. Weather conditions will vary depending on the region, but in general, the weather is mild and pleasant throughout the country.

In northern regions (like Paris), the average high temperature is around 68°F (20°C) and the average low temperature is around 52°F (11°C).

In the south of France, the average high is around 75°F (24°C) and the average low around 61°F (16°C).

There can be occasional rain showers in September, particularly in the north and along the coast, so it's a good idea to bring an umbrella or rain jacket, just in case.

Jonty & Felicity, NZ

Festivals and Events in France in September

American film festival in deauville, normandy .

The American Film Festival in Deauville is an annual event held in the coastal town of Deauville in Normandy . Established in 1975, the festival showcases the best of American cinema.

Over the years, the festival has premiered some of the most celebrated films in American cinema, including movies by Quentin Tarantino, Martin Scorsese, and Steven Spielberg. The festival also features competitions for American independent films, documentaries, and student shorts. As well as screenings, the festival includes panels and Q&A sessions with filmmakers.

Montlouis Jazz Festival, Loire Valley

The Montlouis Jazz Festival is a must-attend event for anyone who loves jazz music and wants to experience the rich culture and heritage of French jazz. It’s been held annually in the town of Montlouis-sur-Loire for over 30 years and has become one of the most significant jazz festivals in France.

The three-day festival is a celebration of all forms of jazz, from traditional to contemporary, and features an impressive lineup of international and French jazz musicians, as well as a variety of concerts, workshops and masterclasses for jazz enthusiasts.

Grande Braderie de Lille, Northern France

This is one of the biggest flea markets in Europe, and takes place in the city of Lille on the first weekend of September. It is a two-day event that attracts millions of visitors who come to hunt for antiques and bargains, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. There is a similar event in the city of Tours in the Loire Valley, too.

Les Journées du Patrimoine, across France

During this annual event in France, the public are allowed free entry to visit numerous historic and cultural sites that are often not open to the public or require an entrance fee. It takes place over a weekend in September and is organized by the French Ministry of Culture.

Visitors can explore a wide range of buildings and monuments, including palaces, government buildings, museums, and churches, among others. These include the Palace of Versailles, the Eiffel Tower, many castles in the Loire Valley, Mont Saint-Michel Abbey, the Palace of the Popes in Avignon, the castle of Carcassonne, the Roman Amphitheatre of Nîmes, and many more. Many places also offer guided tours, workshops, and cultural events.

Tomato Festival in La Bourdaisiere castle, Loire Valley

On the second weekend of September, the Tomato Festival takes place in the beautiful Bourdaisiere castle in the Loire Valley. The festival has been held for over 25 years and celebrates the history, diversity, and flavors of tomatoes.

The castle's owners, Prince and Princess of Broglie, are passionate tomato growers and have created an impressive collection of over 700 varieties of tomatoes from all over the world. During the festival, visitors can discover the castle's magnificent tomato garden, taste a wide variety of tomato-based dishes, and attend workshops and lectures on tomato growing and cooking.

Pumpkin festival in Le Rivau, Loire Valley

The Pumpkin Festival starts in mid-September and happens at the historic Le Rivau Castle. It has been held for over 10 years and is a celebration of the fall season and the pumpkin!

Visitors can explore the castle's beautiful pumpkin-filled gardens, taste a wide variety of pumpkin-based dishes, and attend workshops and activities related to pumpkin growing, cooking, and decorating.

The festival also features a pumpkin carving contest, a pumpkin-themed market, and live entertainment.

Kamel15 , CC-BY SA 3.0

Best Places to visit in France in September

Bordeaux is a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its stunning architecture, historic landmarks, and world-class vineyards. It's the perfect destination for wine lovers and history buffs alike.

We have listed some of our favorite things to do in Bordeaux , if this is on your itinerary!

The third largest city in France is a gastronomic paradise, with a fantastic food scene that includes traditional French cuisine as well as international flavors. Lyon has many cultural attractions, including its centuries-old secret passageways (the traboules )

Located in the Alsace region of eastern France, Strasbourg is a beautiful city with a stunning cathedral. Its old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and ‘La Petite France’ neighborhood is lovely to stroll through. Strasbourg is also home to the European Parliament. 

This port city is a melting pot of cultures, with a mix of French, North African, and Middle Eastern influences. Marseille, the second largest city in France, is a great place to experience the Mediterranean lifestyle, with its warm weather, beautiful beaches and slower pace of life.

The Vieux-Port (Old Port) and Roman ruins are particularly worth seeing. You can also take a day trip to Cassis and visit the gorgeous calanques/creeks nearby.

This picturesque town is situated on the shores of Lake Annecy, surrounded by the French Alps. It's a great place to relax, go hiking, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

The old town is known for its picturesque canals and colorful buildings. Take a wander through the cobbled streets and admire the medieval architecture, stop at a café or bakery, or browse the many boutiques and artisan shops.

The Château d'Annecy is a must-see. It dates back to the 12th century and offers gorgeous panoramic views of the town and lake. It also houses a museum that showcases the history and culture of the Savoy region.

This historic city in Provence is known for its stunning architecture and is also a great place to enjoy the local cuisine and wine.

The Palais des Papes is an impressive fortress-like palace that was the seat of the Catholic Church in the 14th century. It also served as the papal residence for several decades. Today, the Palais des Papes is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit attraction in Avignon. You can enjoy stunning views of the city from the rooftop terraces.

You can experience the best of the city’s cuisine at Les Halles , a bustling covered market filled with vendors selling a wide range of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, bread, and pastries. You can try some traditional Provençal dishes, such as socca and bouillabaisse, and browse the many stalls selling spices, oils, and other specialty items.

Normandy is famous for its beautiful countryside, charming villages, and historic landmarks. Visitors can explore the D-Day landing beaches , the Bayeux Tapestry, and the beautiful coastal areas, such as Honfleur, Trouville, and Mont Saint-Michel. Here we share more suggestions of the best places to visit in Normandy .

France Just For You

Best Things to do in France in September 

Visit the valley of saints in brittany.

La Vallée des Saints is a unique project in Brittany that seeks to commemorate 1,000 Breton saints by crafting statues from granite extracted from the Armorican peninsula. In ancient times, Brittany was called Armorica. This translates to "place in front of the sea" in Gaulish, an ancient Celtic language that was spoken in the region. 

The Quénéquillec site at Carnoët houses several hundred sculptures that symbolize the Christianization of ancient Armorica and represent the Breton people's faith. La Vallée des Saints aims to impart the cherished principles of the local people, while also providing a fascinating experience to tourists visiting the area.

We would be happy to include Saints’ Valley in any of our tours of Brittany.

Stroll through picturesque Honfleur

Honfleur is a lovely coastal town in Normandy, renowned for its picturesque harbor and historical significance. 

The town has a vibrant art scene, with many artists and writers calling it home over the years, including Claude Monet. The Eugene Boudin Museum, dedicated to the renowned 19th-century painter, and who also mentored a young Monet, features a collection of his works, and those of other artists who depicted Honfleur's scenic beauty. 

You can see this beauty for yourself in Honfleur's well-preserved colorful buildings and narrow streets that date back to the 17th and 18th centuries.

In addition, St. Catherine's Church is an architectural masterpiece constructed entirely of wood and a must-see for visitors.

We like to include a day in Honfleur in our Normandy driving itineraries .

Pixabay CC0

Visit the WWI sites & Joan of Arc’s House near Verdun

The World War I sites at Verdun are fascinating places to visit for history buffs. There you can learn about the history at the Verdun Memorial Museum, visit well-preserved trenches, and find out about the key role played by the American military in the 10-month Battle of Verdun, which was crucial in ending the First World War.

If you’re on a tour with us, we’ll arrange for an expert private tour guide to take you to the key sites and explain more about the history and context. He will also take you to one of the nine villages in the area, Fleury-devant-Duaumont, which was completely destroyed during the battle. There are now landmarks and posts that indicate where different buildings in the town once stood, including the school and the city hall.

You can also visit the Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery and Memorial, the largest American military cemetery in Europe, with 14,246 graves. The people of Verdun are very open to talking about their region’s history with travelers. Some may even share personal stories of ancestors they lost in the battles.

Take a boat trip or cycle along the Loire River

A boat trip on the Loire River is a peaceful and relaxing way to experience the beauty of France's longest river. You'll pass through idyllic countryside dotted with quaint villages, historic chateaux, and lush vineyards. Many boat trips offer guided tours with knowledgeable local guides who can share their expertise about the Loire Valley 's rich history, geology, and ecology. We can even organize a trip on a traditional boat that will take you for a wine-tasting experience on an island in the middle of the river!

If traveling on the water isn’t for you, you can also hire bicycles and cycle along one of well-marked cycling trails. If you’re on a tour with us, we’ll recommend our favorite picnic spots (including a vineyard and the garden of one of our favorite castles!) in your personal guidebook.

Browse the independent art galleries of Mougins

Mougins is a small, picturesque hilltop village located on the Côte d'Azur, French Riviera , about a 15-minute drive from Cannes. We love its charming atmosphere, with its narrow, winding streets, beautiful stone houses, lovely gardens, and stunning views over the surrounding countryside.

Mougins has a rich artistic heritage, with many famous painters and sculptors having lived and worked there over the years, including Pablo Picasso, who spent the last years of his life in a farmhouse, Notre Dame de Vie, on the outskirts of the village. There are many art galleries and museums in Mougins, so it’s an ideal place to pick up an original piece of art from a local artist as a souvenir.

Mougins has also been home to many other notable figures, such as the writer and philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre and the fashion designer Christian Dior.

A food lover's paradise, Mougins has a wide variety of restaurants and cafes serving up traditional French cuisine and local specialties. You can try many of these if you visit the village during the International Gastronomy Festival in September (also known as ‘Les Etoiles de Mougins’.)

Côte d'Azur - Mougins Tourisme

FAQ about traveling to France in September

The first half of September is usually very pleasant all across France, with the warmest temperatures in the south of France, where temperatures will be around 20-25°C (up to 75°F). You can expect the average high temperature in Paris to be in the low 20s°C/70s°F in early September. Then as the month draws on and the fall sets in, the temperatures gradually drop to the high teens in °C and the 60s°F.  Find more information on the temperatures across France on our FAQ on French weather.

The warmest parts of France in September are Provence , the French Riviera , Dordogne , and Carcassonne .

September is a lovely time to visit France, as you're unlikely to experience the extreme temperatures of the summer and the weather should be pleasantly warm across the whole country. If you're visiting toward the end of September, you should be in time to see the beautiful fall colors. It may be a great time to visit the vineyards during the wine harvest. There may be some rainy days in late September, so be sure to bring a rain jacket just in case.

If you’re thinking of visiting France in September and would like to explore at your own place on a self-drive itinerary planned by us, we would love to hear from you!

These are some of our sample itineraries , and any of these can be customized to suit your preferences. We can also craft an itinerary for you from scratch at no extra cost.

Considering visiting France in a different month? Check out our other guides below:

• France in January
• France in February
• France in March
• France in April
• France in May
• France in June
• France in July
• France in August
• France in October
• France in November
• France in December

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France Just for You has my highest recommendation. I will never forget our trip to France. Laura was amazing. Perfect itinerary. They did the little things right. Were available throughout the trip. We forgot my 4 year old's blanket at the first hotel. I contacted Laura and she had it waiting for us when we arrived at the hotel airport to leave. I …

France Just for You has my highest recommendation. I will never forget our trip to France. Laura was amazing. Perfect itinerary. They did the little things right. Were available throughout the trip. We forgot my 4 year old's blanket at the first hotel. I contacted Laura and she had it waiting for us when we arrived at the hotel airport to leave. I could go on forever. Allow them to help you with your trip and you will not regret it.

My wife and I and two friends decided we would like to visit France and by chance I found Emilie's website and initiated an online conversation with her over a year ago. We really did not know what we wanted to do, nor where we wanted to go and so our planning became a moving feast, most ably supported by Emilie. How she ever put up with our …

My wife and I and two friends decided we would like to visit France and by chance I found Emilie's website and initiated an online conversation with her over a year ago. We really did not know what we wanted to do, nor where we wanted to go and so our planning became a moving feast, most ably supported by Emilie. How she ever put up with our changing demands remains beyond me. The speed with which she responded to our requests was nothing short of amazing, she must never sleep !! We together finally put together a truly wonderful programme that met our every expectation. We saw provincial France over 17 days, starting in the Cote D'Azur and culminating in Paris, visiting Provence, Burgundy and the Loire. The accommodation arranged by Emilie was delightful, her suggestions on activities, routes, restaurants, sights to see and visit were outstanding. Travelling from Australia to France is not for the fainthearted at any time, let alone making an unescorted self drive tour such as we have done over the past month. I doubt we could have done it without Emilie's very professional support. We would recommend her services to anyone. Thank you Emilie

We have just returned from a road trip around France and with Emilie's help, we had one of the best trips we've ever had. We travel extensively and I normally do my own research and bookings because we don't like using formal , organised tours but we were looking for advice on self driving holidays in France. Emilie's attention to detail is …

We have just returned from a road trip around France and with Emilie's help, we had one of the best trips we've ever had. We travel extensively and I normally do my own research and bookings because we don't like using formal , organised tours but we were looking for advice on self driving holidays in France. Emilie's attention to detail is outstanding. She listened to our likes and dislikes and put together the most amazing itinerary, with a personalised guide book, maps, iPhone, booked our car rental , booked B&Bs , advised on restaurants and suggested daily itineraries. We had all the information and yet all the freedom , which is what we wanted. I would definitely use her services again and would highly recommend her to anyone thinking of doing a trip around France

My wife and I traveled in Provence and Dordogne in early April 2018. Whie the weather was mostly on the rainy/windy side, the trip was so well planned and organized, with so much to see, that we did not pay much attention to the weather. All B&Bs were excellent in terms of accommodation, food (sic!) and very welcoming. All hosts were bi-lingual and …

My wife and I traveled in Provence and Dordogne in early April 2018. Whie the weather was mostly on the rainy/windy side, the trip was so well planned and organized, with so much to see, that we did not pay much attention to the weather. All B&Bs were excellent in terms of accommodation, food (sic!) and very welcoming. All hosts were bi-lingual and provided lots of advice about the area. Car rental was a breeze, both pick-up and return. And we would not miss any of the pre-booked tours, like private tour in Aix en Provence, Gourmet tour in Avignon or a fun truffle hunt. We met so many good people on this trip. Thank you Emilie!

There are not enough superlatives, or kind words, to describe the level of service Emilie, with France Just for You, provided us from the moment we contacted her, throughout our trip, and even her thoughtful emails upon our return. We contacted Emilie with a list of all the places we wished to go, the things we hoped to do, and our budget. We …

There are not enough superlatives, or kind words, to describe the level of service Emilie, with France Just for You, provided us from the moment we contacted her, throughout our trip, and even her thoughtful emails upon our return. We contacted Emilie with a list of all the places we wished to go, the things we hoped to do, and our budget. We exchanged several emails (Emilie’s response time was always immediate) and, within a couple of days, Emilie created an amazing itinerary for our 2 week stay in France that allowed us to do everything we hoped for and several things we would not have thought about on our own. Emilie is an incredible listener which was very evident when we received our itinerary. She had arranged for everything including a French Smartphone with Google Maps, a rental car, skip-the-line tickets, a stay in a castle, wine tastings, etc. All of our accommodations were superb with hosts that spoke fluent English, were very knowledgeable about their area, and had great suggestions from restaurants to local “must do’s” and everything in-between. When Emilie says she has visited all of the accommodations in person, she means it. Each host talked very highly of Emilie and reminisced about her visits. From the moment we stepped off the plane in Paris, we knew we were in for a great experience. Emilie’s detailed notes (all in a spiral bound, 400+ page book with our itinerary, addresses, suggestions,etc.) on where to pick up our French Smart Phone (an absolute must and one of our best friends during our visit - loaded with our tailored book and several other great programs) and then our rental car, made the start to our journey very easy - relatively important to us since neither one of us spoke more than 10 words of French. We had the privilege of meeting up with Emilie in her hometown and she was just as delightful in person as we experienced with our email exchanges over the last few months. While the trains were sporadically on strike, depending on the day, Emilie was there to follow the schedule and be ready to make an alternative plan for us if needed. When we hit a small snag turning in our rental car, Emilie was right there to figure things out and get us on our way. We’ve traveled quite a bit, yet we both thought this to be our Best Trip Ever. Thank you Emilie and France Just for You!

We had the most amazing trip to France which was so carefully curated by Laura at France Just For You. All of our interests were catered for with a fun and interesting itinerary! Laura took the time to find out where we wanted to travel in France and what we wanted to do there and made sure there were plenty of options. Everything was taken care …

We had the most amazing trip to France which was so carefully curated by Laura at France Just For You. All of our interests were catered for with a fun and interesting itinerary! Laura took the time to find out where we wanted to travel in France and what we wanted to do there and made sure there were plenty of options. Everything was taken care from car hire to accommodation and everything in between. The only thing left for us to do, was to experience France! Even with a few small hiccups along the way, Laura was there to provide solutions. I would not hesitate to recommend France Just for You for anyone who wants to experience a wonderful stress free holiday in France!

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France in September: Weather, Things to See and Travel Tips

By: Author Christine Rogador

Posted on Published: February 15, 2020  - Last updated: August 3, 2022

September officially ends summer and welcomes fall in France.  The weather is still warm, but cozy.

Crowds in popular cities and destinations are slowly dissipating. It is the month for long walks and watching as old towns , parks , and gardens take on the fall colors.

France in September has a lot in store and here’s a helpful guide to help you out.

Things you'll find in this article

Temperature in France in September

Rain in france in september, wind in france in september, what to pack in france in september, 1. classical music concerts in a more relaxed setting‬, 2. ‪celebrate fête de la gastronomie ‬, 3. explore marseille, 4. visit lille, 5. enjoy the beaches in nice, 6. the trams of montpellier, 7. have a crepe in saint-malo, 8. check out aix-en-provence, 9. visit reims, travel tips and resources.

What is the weather like in France in September?

September in France has an average temperature of 18°C to 25°C.

Expect rain in France, about 50mm of rain over a period of 8 days in September.

For September, wind speed in France is usually between 11.8 miles per hour to 12.8 miles per hour.

Autumn in France is quite spectacular, as the cities and countryside take on the fiery colors. The weather is cooler and most attractions are less crowded.

Autumn in France is also the wet season , although it’s not too cold yet for leisurely walks and night outs. Autumn temperature in France ranges from 55°F to 65°F (13°C to 18°C).

Be sure to bring clothes that you can easily layer, such as this long-sleeved shirt and pullover that you can also mix and match with other clothing items in your bag.

A scarf is a must, as well as comfortable yet stylish shoes for walking around and enjoying France’s autumn splendor.

These are the things that are non-negotiables when packing for a trip to any destination.

Gadgets – Apart from the usual cellphone, camera, tablet, and laptop, bring items that will ensure these will work properly in France. A must is a small power bank to make sure you can recharge your devices even on the road. You can get it here .

USB cables and a universal adapter are also a must as you don’t know if your devices will have the correct type of plugs. You can get it here .

Other Important items – A first aid/ emergency kit is a must and should contain the following: pain and fever medication, antidiarrheal medication, softening and soothing lozenges, anti-mosquito cream/gel, and medicines for carsickness or seasickness.

There’s always a chance of rain in France so a foldable umbrella or lightweight raincoat is a must.

Bags and Luggage – A travel backpack should accommodate all your essentials plus the clothes that are good for about ten to fifteen days of travel. While in France, you also need a day bag that you can use when visiting attractions or going on day trips.

Check out this packing list for all seasons.

Things To Do In France In September

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Classique au vert (@classiqueauvert) on Aug 30, 2019 at 6:03am PDT

Classique au Vert is a yearly classical music fest that’s held every summer until mid-September. It is held in Paris and other major cities, and one of the best things to do in France .

The setup is more relaxed, there’s a variety of performances and related events. This basically makes classical music more accessible to people than just staging them as formal concerts.

It’s a fun and inspiring event, in one of the most beautiful cities in the world. You also get to interact with talented performers as well as other music lovers.

One simply cannot resist this delicious Parisian event, where you get to sample and enjoy excellent  French dishes at a lower price.

Held during the last week of September, Fête de la Gastronomie ‬also features cooking demonstrations and recipe competitions.

There are also events that showcase cuisine from other countries. It’s a fun, informative, and definitely tasty way to enjoy French food , right in the country’s capital, Paris.

Often regarded as the oldest city in France, Marseille is also the second-largest, next to Paris .

This beautiful city is one of the best places to visit in France, as it has a lot of fascinating attractions. It has a long history that dates back to over two thousand years ago.

Visit its Old Port, which was established by Phoenicians over 2,500 years ago. Sit back and relax, watch the hustle, talk to locals (practice your French!) or sample some local cuisine.

A must-try is the bouillabaisse, a hearty soup made even more flavorful by freshly caught local fish.

Check out these things to do in Marseille, France

September is a great month to visit Lille , which happens to be one of the most beautiful cities to see in France . This charming city is situated close to the Belgian border and is known for the Grande Braderie de Lille.

This event takes place every September, which is basically 48 hours of market stalls lining the city streets.

Sample local treats in these stalls, such as mussels, French fries, and waffles. Buy and take home some wine , cheese , pastries, and chocolates.

After enjoying the food, be sure to visit one of France’s largest fine arts museums – the Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille.

Check out these things to do in Lille, France

If you ever wanted that summer feel while in France, head towards the French Riviera and visit Nice . This iconic city just has that pleasant, perpetually summer vibe that makes it a top destination in France.

One simply cannot get enough of its rocky beaches and picturesque Old Town with its colorful houses.

Another must-do here is to try some traditional French dishes, made with a bit of a modern twist.

Check out these things to do in Nice, France

If you’re looking for a fun thing to do in France, then visit the charming Montpellier and ride its stylish trams. These tram lines are decorated by iconic designers such as Garouste,  Bonetti, and Lacroix for lines one, two, and three respectively.

Montpellier is also home to some of France’s most beautiful squares, all with a distinct character. Two of the squares that you must visit are the Place de la Comédie and the Place de la Canourgue.

Another must-visit here is Monaco, regarded as the best pâtisserie in Montpellier.

Check out these best things to do in Montpellier, France. 

The fortress city of Saint-Malo is a must-visit when in France. It is located in Brittany and was first constructed as a rocky island. This is a lovely city, with an interesting structure.

However, it is also known for its sweet or savory crêpes or kouign-amanns. Brittany has a rich and distinct food culture , and the crepes of Saint-Malo are part of it.

Another must-do in this fortress city is to enjoy its views onboard a ferry to Dinard – another lovely place to visit.

From the boat, you are presented with a view of Saint-Malo that makes you understand its distinct structure better.

Check out these things to do in Saint-Malo, France

Aix-en-Provence has a number of names, referencing its long history or its stunning cityscape. It is the “City of Counts” because the Counts of Provence once lived here.

This is also why Aix , as it is fondly called – has a number of magnificent palaces.

Around the city center, you’ll also find many fountains, hence it is also called the “City of a Thousand Fountains.”

More than its names and what it is known for, Aix-en-Provence is a laid-back city with a distinct old-world charm. It is ideal for vacations, with a bit of adventure.

Check out these things to do in Aix-en-Provence, France

Reims is an easy day trip from Paris (less than an hour by TGV train), and one of the most exciting destinations in the Champagne Region. It is part of France’ Villes d’Art et d’Histoire” (Cities of Art and History), because of its rich history and culture as well as its impressive architecture.

In Reims, you’ll walk among centuries-old buildings and historic monuments , as well as fabulous cafes and restaurants. Reims is easily reached from Paris and you can explore its best attractions within a day.

However, Reims is also home to fascinating museums, elegant squares, and champagne houses.

This city is definitely a must explore and whether you’re on a day trip or staying for the weekend.

Check out these things to do in Reims, France.

Travel Tips for France in September

1. September is one of those months of the year where the weather in most parts of France is unpredictable. Be sure to bring a hat, a scarf, a weatherproof jacket, and sturdy shoes. These should help you get through the changing weather and still enjoy your vacation.

2. September is when locals head back to school or work. It is then a great time to visit the beach if you want to experience what summer must be like in France. A must-visit is anywhere in the Cote d’Azur area, which gets too crowded in July and August .

3. During September, most museums and attractions keep longer visiting hours. Beat the crowd by going early or late in the afternoon. This ensures that you get to see and enjoy those on exhibit without having to push through a lot of people.

4. Speaking of museums, a lot of museums in France start their extravagant autumn exhibitions. Be sure to check that out and immerse yourself in art in places like the ‪Pompidou Center in Metz‬ and the great Louvre-Lens‬ in northern France.

5. During this time of the year, rates for accommodations and airfare are usually inexpensive. Be sure to keep yourself updated, score great deals, and save some money.

Travel Insurance: I never leave home without travel insurance. My personal opinion is if you can afford to travel, you can afford to buy a travel insurance. All things can happen while on the road and you can never be too sure. And it's something that you'll be glad to have when you need it. For my preferred travel insurance, I use Safety Wing .

What To Wear: If you want some ideas on what to pack for France, check out this packing list guide for France .

Where To Stay: I personally use Booking.com for all my accommodations. Check out for their latest deals here .

Reading Resources: Check out our best reading resources here .

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries and lived in 4 continents in the last 10 years, including France. A self-proclaimed Francophile, I love everything France.

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France in September

• How to plan a trip to France
• France first-time visitor’s guide
• France weather
• Map of France
• Getting around France

• Dom Pérignon: Drinking The Stars
• Wine Regions of France
• French Wine Guide
• Understanding the four categories of French wine
• Champagne: The Drink of Kings
• French Apéritifs
• Self-guided Provence wine tour itinerary
• Beaujolais Nouveau: Get Your Grape On
• Making vin chaud

Go to the market As the beginning of harvest season, September brings bountiful produce to the outdoor as well as marking the very beginning of harvesting season at the vineyards, which makes September a great time to go wine tasting.

• Markets in France: Tips to maximize your shopping experience
• Where to find the best markets in France

Hit the beach Although you may not think of September as a prime beach going month, it is actually a great time to head to the beach (especially earlier in the month). Especially along the French Riviera and Languedoc warm sunny days are still prevalent, which makes it an ideal time to soak up some sun (especially in the beginning half of the month). Fewer beach goers (both of the French variety and other international tourists who flock to the Mediterranean in the summer) means you might actually find a spot to lay your towel down that’s not three inches from someone else.

• Best Beaches in France
• Nude Beaches in France
• Best Beaches Along the French Mediterranean
• Visiting Saint-Jean-de-Luz: A Beachside Basque Gem

Take a Barge Cruise Slightly cooler temperatures, but still plenty of warm weather makes for perfect conditions to enjoy a barge cruise through the canals of France. With such beautiful weather and scenery this time of year, nothing beats hanging out on the deck of your barge, riding bikes through France’s villages and soaking up the September sunshine.

• Taking a Barge Cruise in France

Visit the Museums Many museums in France have extended hours during the summer to accommodate the extra tourists and locals, and some museums also have extended hours into September. There is a rumor floating around that museums are now free for those under 25 in France (which is good news to some and doesn’t mean a thing to many of you).

• Not sure what museums you should hit up? Check out  Paris’ Top 50 Museums

Holidays, Festivals and Events in France in September

Weather in France in September

Another benefit to going to France in September? While the weather is still delightfully warm and pleasant, you also won’t descend into the metro wearing a cute outfit only to emerge 45 minutes later drenched in sweat and attempting to control your previously perfect coif that has been destroyed by that evil combination of heat and humidity. While July and August in France (especially Paris) can bring hot temperatures and humidity, by September it has cooled to a pleasant temperature that allows you to wear that cute summer dress (paired with a cardigan when it gets chilly later in the day) without sweating through it. Paris– Average high temperature = 21 degrees celsius/70 degrees farenheit. Average low is 13 celcius, 55 farenheit. Average rainfall = 53 millimeters, or 2.1 inches. Nice — Average high temperature = 24 degrees celsius/75 degrees farenheit. Average low at 17 degrees celcius/62 degrees farenheit. Average precipitation is 66 millimeters, or 2.6 inches. Bordeaux– Average high temperature is 23 degrees celsius, 73 degrees farenheit. Average low is 12 celcius/53 farenheit. Average precipitation is 84 millimeters, or 3.3 inches. Strasbourg– Average high temperature is 21 degrees celsius, or 69 degrees farenheit. Average low is 11 celcius/51 farenheit. Average precipitation is 61 millimeters, or 2.4

What to pack for your trip to France in September

Weather in France during September will vary depending on where you are, but it is mostly moderate time of year with hot days and cool evenings, which means you’ll want to make sure you pack both hot-weather outfits along with a light jacket and some sweaters. The key to dressing for fall and spring in France is layers—a summer dress for the warm day with a sweater for when it gets cooler for example. For more tips on what to wear in France check out these posts:

• What to wear in France in the summer
• What to wear in France in the winter

Getting to France in September

While airfare to France is not as low in September as it is during the off-peak winter months, you will have an easier time finding a good deal on flights to France in September than in July or August. Booking far in advance can also help you get a cheap flight to France in September. For those coming from London, taking the Eurostar between Paris and London is easiest and fastest way to get between France and UK, though there are other transportation options for  getting from London to Paris .

Where to Stay

While you may not have to book your hotel in France as far in advance in September as you would during the summer months, you will still want to make sure your book your hotel, bed and breakfast or hostel in France in advance, as there are still a fairly large number of tourists in France during this month.

• Accommodations in France
• France hotel info
• Hostels in France
• Here are some  hotels on the Vieux Port in Marseille .
• And a great guide to  budget hotels in Bordeaux .
• Oh! And  hotels in Nice near the Promenade des Anglais , and  hotels near La Criosette in Cannes .
• And just for kicks, check out  hotels with a view of the Eiffel Tower in Paris .

Grape photo , Bullfighting photo

France in September: A Perfect Guide for a Perfect Vacation!

France is the largest country in Western Europe and the most popular tourist destination in the world. When we think of France the first thing that pops up in our head is the World’s most iconic landmark “ Eiffel Tower “. Many people wish to go to France to get a nice picture of the Eiffel Tower. And also there are many reasons why so many people enjoy visiting this country, that includes historical monuments, the amazing climate, art & architecture, rich French culture, sensational food, lavender field, majestic mountain ranges, amazing beaches, and modern countryside. France in September has many events, wonderful weather and many more to explore.

Also Read: 10 Beautiful Places to Visit in France

France Tour Package Starting @ ₹58,956

Eiffel Top. Bordeaux Wine Tasting. Provence Lavendar Fields. Nice Beaches. Magical Mont Saint Michel.

Is September a good month to go to France?

Yes! September is one of the best months to visit France. This month is also known for “Paris Fashion Week” in France that takes place in the last week of September. Sept-Oct is the autumn season in France where you can feel both hot and cold climates. September marks the end of summer where you can feel still warm for the first half of the month and the temperature starts to cool where you can feel chilly cold for the second half of the month. Tourists visiting France in September can benefit from fewer crowds and attractions at their full capacity. France in September is also well known for its excursions and is full of cultural events. Don’t miss visiting France in September.

Also read- France Travel Guide – Explorez la France!

Festivals and Events in France in September

1. lille street market.

It takes place on the first weekend of September every year at Lille Braderie. It’s traditional for Lille restaurants to serve the dish throughout the festival attracting crowds of up to three million each year. Also, it is the best sightseeing festival.

2. International Garden Festival

This is a Garden outdoor art museum where Chaumont-sur-Loire hosts the annual festival for the summer six months. Depending on when you visit, the exhibitions will be in a different state and different themed every year. It is a guided walking tour.

3. The Great Bulwark or Grand Pavois

It takes place from 27th September to 2nd October. This festival is an international boat fair where a number of flags are arranged in order to honor the pioneers. The atmosphere is fabulous and you’ll get close to some of the world’s most spectacular stunning settings of La Rochelle. In this festival you will find themed flags, a number of yachts, and various small boats.

4. The Feria du Riz

This is a Rice Festival in France to celebrate the soil of Arles in the month of September. It is a 2 days festival where rice harvest is held in mid-September. The festival is also followed by bull-fighting which is a tradition in Southern France.

Weather in France in September:

The first half of the month is still warm sunny however the daytime temperature ranges between 22′ C and 25′ C on average while the nights are still with lows at 18′ C.

• Paris – Lows and highs (13’C – 21′ C) and the average temperature is 15′ C.
• Lyon – Lows and highs (12′ C – 23’C) and the average temperature is 18’C
• Bordeaux – Lows and highs (12’C – 23’C) and the average temperature is 16’C
• Nice – Lows and highs (17’C – 23’C) and the average temperature is 20.2’C
• Strasbourg – Lows and highs (9’C – 20’C) and the average temperature is 15’C

Glamourous France escapade for the fashionistas

Explore every nook and corner of France in this amazing 8-day trip

Best Places to visit in France in September:

1. miss visiting paris, then it’s your loss.

Paris is a romantic city for exploration. Also had a rich culture and art, both in museums, galleries as well as on streets and in theatres. Secure direct access, to avoid the queue at the entrance to explore the Eiffel Tower. Paris is not only meant for Eiffel Tower but also many more places to explore. You can see the whole of Paris from the roof of the Montparnasse Tower . There is a famous Parisian cabaret called Moulin Rouge , there you can taste one of the most famous shows, Feerie, coupled with half a bottle of champagne. Enjoy a magical time at Disneyland , Paris. The ticket fare is 4000 rupees per person. Enjoy an exclusive guided tour of Versailles Palace and visit its beautiful royal gardens it’s a 90 minutes guided tour. Discover the beauty of grandiose royal gardens and opulent fountains.

2. Bordeaux refers to Wine! Wine! Wine!

Bordeaux is famous for its vineyards, legendary chateau, and wine. If you want to attend the grape harvest the best time to visit is September-October. More than 350 buildings are classified as historical monuments and list the top tourist attractions in Bordeaux. Place de la bourse played a major role in the city’s development and trade. This “elegant puddle” or a “masterpiece of creativity.”, Cathédrale Saint-André, Basilica of Saint Michael, Basilique Saint-Seurin were some of the places designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

3. Provence- the Lavender field!

Provence is located in the south of France. Definitely, Provence is a worth visiting destination and everyone’s favorite spot to visit. Provence is famous for its sunny weather, colorful countryside, tradition, wine, and food. You can expect an average temperature of 15’C – 24′ C in September. To be more exact, the lavender fields start to bloom towards the end of June and come to end by September. So you can still have the lavender field to explore.

Also Read: 8 Top Things to Do in Provence, France

4. Nice- the seaport city

Nice is the city between seas and mountains where you can enjoy life, seaport views, food, street chats and many more. Discover the Old Town of Nice where is held almost every morning the famous market and flower market. Enjoy an Italian ice cream, have a go at Nice local food, visit Castle hill park. I also recommend you to go to Castel beach where they provide Parasailing, 20 minutes of free-diving, 3 hours snorkeling tour stand-up paddle, and Jetski.

Travel Tips for Your Trip to France in September:

• The best way to ensure a smooth and adventurous vacation in France is the plan, plan, plan, and plan ahead.
• Don’t miss visiting museums, there are many museums like Pompidou Centres in Metz and the great Louvre-Lens that extend summertime hours in the Autumn season.
• A trip to France wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Iconic “Eiffel Tower”
• For solo travellers, it is recommended to use a credit card anywhere to avoid loss of cash situation.
• France can be surprisingly accommodating for tourist families, rates begin to decrease on lodging and airfare during this time of year, especially in the more developed transportation countries.
• Plan some family-time movies set in France, I guarantee they’ll be pumped up by the time, it comes to depart.
• Enjoy the modern countryside streets and beaches. Trains and hotels are relatively easy to book.

What to Pack for France in September?

September is a great month for touring when fall colors are beginning to show. While the weather is fine and there are fewer visitors depending on which cities and regions you plan to travel to, these are the items that should be on your packing list.

• Cardigan, pullovers, or sweaters for chilly evenings outdoors.
• Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreens with SPF protection for sunny days.
• Comfortable walking shoes and winter boots.
• Light cotton clothes for warm days.
• Quick-dry socks and waterproof shoes.
• Raincoat and a travel umbrella.

Also Read: 9 Best French Slangs

We are ready to offer you France packages and France honeymoon packages and also we do customised itineraries as you wish to plan your trip. Whether you are a solo traveler or need honeymoon packages, friends packages, or family packages Pickyourtrail is already ready to serve you at its best. Do contact us or visit our official page for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions

September in France is typically mild to warm, with cooler evenings. It’s often a pleasant time to visit as the summer heat starts to ease off.

Absolutely! September is an excellent month to visit popular tourist destinations in France. Summer crowds begin to thin, making it easier to visit attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Versailles Palace, among others.

Yes, various events are held in France in September. Among the most notable are grape harvest festivals in wine regions, Paris Fashion Week, Heritage Days, when historic sites are open to the public for free, and others.

In general, after the peak summer season, lodging prices may begin to fall slightly. To secure good rates, it is best to book ahead of time, especially for popular destinations.

September marks the start of the harvest season, so it is a great time to try new fruits and vegetables, cheeses, and wines. Look for seasonal specialties like fresh grapes, truffles, and various seasonal dishes.

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September in France: Weather, travel, and events

• Post category: Travel to France
• Post author: Nassie Angadi

September in France is when that monumental event known as the rentrée occurs. With French kids going back to school and their parents going back to work, all of a sudden those wonderous French châteaux and museums are left to the lucky few who can go on holiday in September.

With the last vestiges of summer still apparent, France in September is a delight. The autumn colors are beginning to show, there are fewer tourists and the days are still long and warm. So let’s check out the top travel tips for visiting France in September, shall we? Allons-y!

7. Other events

The weather in September is usually pretty warm and sunny (compared to the rain and grey skies that are more common in France in winter .) Average temperatures in September in major cities across France are:

• Paris – 16.4 °C (61.5 °F)
• Lyon – 17.1 °C (62.8 °F)
• Marseille – 19.9 °C (67.9 °F)
• Bordeaux – 18.9 °C (66 °F)
• Lille – 15.5 °C (59.9 °F)
• Strasbourg – 16 °C (60.8 °F)
• Deauville – 16 °C (60.7 °F)

And if you are heading to the south of France, you may actually prefer going in September after the July and August heatwaves have passed. Air conditioning is relatively rare in France so if you are heading to Provence, you may prefer to avoid the summer months.

Paris should be beautiful and balmy, as this is perhaps one of the nicest times of the year in the city. The west coast towns of Bordeaux and Deauville are also excellent in terms of the weather.

Where to go

Provence and the French Riviera are ideal in September, with cities like Saint Tropez and Nice attracting fewer crowds of visitors. If you want to bask in the late summer, this area of sun is a must.

September is also when many wine harvests take place, like the white wines of the Loire Valley and champagne . Burgundies and Beaujolais wines around Dijon and Lyon are also in harvest in September.

And there is never a bad time to head to Paris. As I mentioned, the top museums will have much shorter lines, and if you will not need to queue up to see the bed of Marie Antoinette at the Palais de Versailles .

September Holidays, Events, and Festivals

There are not a lot of public holidays or big events taking place in France in September, but there are a few local festivities that take place all over the country. The main festivities and holidays in September include:

1. Jour de Rentrée – Back to School Day

• Public holiday: No
• When: First Monday in September

The big day back to school ! And for adults to get back to the grindstone. If there are projects at work that French people have been putting off all summer, they now have to get back to it. This is the rentrée .

The day itself is not a holiday, but most companies have negotiated with their union to provide the day off for parents of small children. French parents usually take the day off to drop their kids off school , (though you do not get 2 days off if you have 2 small children!)

2. Journées du Patrimoine – Heritage Day

• Public Holiday: No
• When: 3rd weekend in September

This is not a day off, per se, but rather a weekend to go behind closed doors. Most major government buildings and institutions will open their doors to visitors all weekend long.

Lines are usually long for favourites such as the Palais de l’Elysées (official residence of the French President) , Assemblée Nationale , Palais Royal , and the television studios of France 2 (the French equivalent of the BBC).

If you plan on going to any of the hotspots, be prepared to line up as early as 6am, if not earlier. For certain places, you can reserve tickets in advance for specific time slots. The tickets are usually reservable a few days in advance and where to reserve changes from year to year.

3. Braderie de Lille (Lille flea market)

With over 10,000 exhibitors in the streets, the city of Lille in the north of France hosts the world’s largest flea market. It is usually held the first weekend of September, attracting millions of people every year.

It is believed that the first annual flea markets in Lille date back to 1127 and is a big festival in the city. With various stands, local foods, a half-marathon, and parties late into the night, this is one of the most famous markets in France with something for everyone.

4. Féria du Riz in Arles

If you enjoy a good paella, you will want to head to the Camargue and the city of Arles near the French-Spanish border. It is usually held in the 2nd week of September (as well as in April ) and is a bull-fighting festival that takes place to celebrate the rice harvest.

The rice used in a paella is a short grain rice that is grown in the department of the Camargue which has a strong Spanish influence.

5. Fête de la Gastronomie

A newer festival around France is the Fête de la Gastronomie . It is an initiative of the Ministry of Crafts, Trade and Tourism launched in 2011, and is celebrated in the last week of September.

It takes place throughout France and is meant to promote the French culinary heritage . Some smaller towns and villages will promote their local fares, but it has yet to catch on with restaurants in larger cities like Paris.

More common is local and artisan food markets that will hold special events to promote their produce. Lyon , which is considered the French capital of gastronomy, holds a street food festival with tastings, picnics and other festivities.

On a smaller scale, the Fête du Chausson aux Pommes (a pastry filled with carmelized apple ) has been celebrated since 1630 every September in the town of Saint-Calais in the Loire region.

6. Montgolfières in Rocamadour

In the last weekend of September, a spectacular sight takes place in Rocamadour, a small clifftop village in south-central France. Around 30 hot air balloons take flight over the valley to pay tribute to the inventors of the Montgolfières , the Montgolfier brothers who were from nearby Ardéche.

The village of Ribeauvillé is famous for its medieval festival called Pfifferdaj, fête des ménétriers , which takes place the 1st week of September. Minstrels, musicians, and acrobats all put on a show in a festival dating back to the Middle ages.

What to Pack

The sunshine may be out in September, but you may still need a light jacket in the evenings. And you should still pack the sunscreen as well. Better safe than sorry!

• Trench coat with hood
• Canvas sneakers
• Light Scarf
• Cross-body handbag

You can find more French style tips here.

If you enjoyed reading this article, you may enjoy reading more about events in France in other months of the year . A bientôt!

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When is the best time to visit France?

Apr 30, 2023 • 5 min read

Sundrenched France in the summer is hard to resist © Fabio Formaggio / EyeEm / Getty Images

France ’s massive appeal – those top-class cities, beaches and landscapes – beckons all year round, but there are certain times when it’s better to visit depending on what you want to do.

We've got all the insight you need on how to avoid the crowds, stretch your budget, navigate peak tourist season and the festivals you can't afford to miss. Find out the best time to plan your next vacation to fabulous France.

June, July and August are about peak times and sunshine

High season in France is hot and getting there can be hectic. Roads are usually a nightmare on the weekends, with traffic warnings going from orange to black. Hotel prices are at their peak, and you might need to book restaurants in advance. Many restaurateurs in larger cities will close for their own summer break. But it’s also the time when summer events and markets are in full flow, and you can enjoy glacier skiing in Tignes and Les Deux Alpes.

France celebrates the arrival of summer with the nationwide Fête de la Musique on June 21. Under hot summer skies,  Nîmes and Arles get into a féria mood with Spanish-style parties and shows in their Roman amphitheaters. The iconic  Le Mans 24-Hour Grand Prix  kicks into gear and Nuit Blanche , when cultural sites are open all night, makes its move from October to June in 2023 to take advantage of the better weather.

Everything is happening at once in July – the incredible Tour de France, Bastille Day celebrations all around the country on July 14, major festivals in Avignon and Aix-en-Provence and Provence ’s lavender fields in full bloom. Booking ahead is imperative and this isn't the time for a budget break.

The Feast of the Assumption is on August 15 – another holiday when everything closes. Contrary to public opinion, Paris gently buzzes in August, especially on the Seine’s  Paris-Plage and Parc de la Villette ’s open-air cinema.

Enjoy a more relaxed pace in April, May, September and October

Everything is a little more easygoing and gentle during the French shoulder season. As France warms up from April onwards, particularly in the south, that’s the time for a more leisurely exploration among the spring flowers. 

Even if Easter doesn’t fall in April, there’s a sense of the country opening up and shrugging off its winter hours. Cafe terraces become full again as people spend more time outdoors enjoying the warmer weather. The seasonal shift is celebrated at the  International Garden Festival in Chateau de Chaumont-sur-Loire and the Bourges Spring Festival .

With two to four public holidays in May (depending on when Easter falls), opening hours can be a tad unpredictable. But May is also the month of the Nuits des Musées  when hundreds of museums around the country open their doors for free from dusk till 1am. It's also when the global sensation that is the Cannes Film Festival whirls into town and drenches the south of France in silver-screen glamor. Unsurprisingly, prices shoot up for the duration of the festival.

La Rentrée – when France goes back to work and school in September – signals the end of summer, but that’s also when villages hold their own festivals. The weather is as hot as August, but prices start to drop. Time your visit to make the most of the largest flea market in Europe at the Braderie de Lille or delve into American culture with a European twist at the  Festival of American Cinema in Deauville.

October brings an autumnal mellowness, but you can still swim in the Med (and, occasionally, the Atlantic). It’s also harvest time, with wine fairs and food and drink festivals around the country. Join the party at  Fêtes des Vendanges in Montmartre ,  Salon du Chocolat in Paris , and Fête des Vendanges in Banyuls-sur-Mer.

Enjoy lower prices and a slower pace between November and March 

Apart from a brief burst of activity during Christmas and New Year’s, France’s rural regions go into hibernation mode. Opening hours get even more restricted than usual, with many restaurants open three to four days a week. But cities are still lively.

November brings plunging temperatures and two public holidays – November 1 and 11 – bring more closures as well as winter hours. But it’s a good time for a city break as prices go down. Sample gastronomic delights at the  Annecy Wine and Food Festival  or the Beaujolais Nouveau weekend .

France loves to put on a big show for Christmas. Even if you don’t ski, the magic of the mountains goes into overdrive when festive decorations come out. Watch Lyon come to life as the Festival of Lights bathes the city. When you’re not on the ski slopes, head to the shops for the big January sales – les soldes d’hiver . Quieter streets will make city breaks a pleasure, especially in the south where the weather can already feel mild.

February heralds the arrival of Valentine’s Day and, unsurprisingly, it's taken seriously in France – book ahead if you’re planning a romantic weekend. It also marks the start of carnival season, some in anticipation of Lent, others just for the sheer fun of it. Shake off the winter gloom at Nice Carnival or the Menton Lemon Festival .

Spring comes with its own soundtrack in March in the form of world-class musicians –  Festival Banlieues Bleues north of Paris. Enjoy some late-season skiing without February’s crowds.

Plan carefully for ski season

Ski season is huge in France but timing can be a delicate art. Early skiing in December can be tricky with the occasional lack of snow, but January is usually your best bet. Avoid February if you can, as half-term holidays are spread across the whole month. Prices rocket during the Christmas and New Year holidays.

This article was first published April 2021 and updated April 2023

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France in September: Celebrating the French Autumn’s Delight

Discover the beauty of France in September through the help of our in-depth guide to engaging experiences, cultural events, and shifting landscapes. Discover the best things to do, places you simply must see, and the special beauty that this colourful autumn month offers to the French countryside.

September is a golden embrace from France as summer gives way to fall. The rich hues of the changing leaves adorn the landscapes, and a lively tapestry of festivals brings the nation’s cultural heritage to life.

September in France provides a multitude of experiences, from the vineyards of Bordeaux to the picturesque Loire Valley, the poetic atmosphere of the Fête de l’Humanité, the nautical allure of Brittany and the thrilling beat of the Techno Parade in Paris. Come along with me as we discover the fascinating activities, delicious cuisine, and stunning locations that make this autumn month the perfect time to travel around the nation.

A grapevine celebration in the heart of wine country.

Bordeaux comes alive in September with the expectation and revelry around the wine harvest, a custom known as the “vendanges.” Bordeaux’s vines are humming with activity as grapes are selected with care and delivered to the wineries to make the region’s famous wines.

A rare chance to witness the winemaking process is to visit Bordeaux during harvest season. Numerous vineyards provide wine tastings, guided tours, and opportunities to take part in harvest-related events. With its sophisticated architecture and lively wine bars, Bordeaux makes a delightful setting for any trip with a wine theme.

Historical elegance in the autumn splendour.

Known as the “Garden of France,” the Loire Valley is a captivating place to visit in September. The valley, with its many old châteaux, each with its own distinct charm, is made even more beautiful by the pleasant weather and changing foliage.

Experience the history and architectural magnificence of the area by visiting Château de Chambord, Château de Chenonceau, and Château de Villandry, among other places. These châteaux’s magnificent gardens are a highlight, particularly in September when the changing of the seasons makes them even more charming.

A vibrant cultural and music festival near Paris.

The annual Fête de l’Humanité is a music and cultural event that takes place in La Courneuve, a town west of Paris. This vibrant celebration of music, politics, and culture is organised by the French newspaper L’Humanité and takes place in early September every year.

The festival’s musical schedule includes a wide range of genres, including hip-hop, world music, and rock and pop. You can take in political talks, food vendors, art exhibits, and a range of cultural events in addition to the music. Experience the convergence of politics, art, and society in a vibrant and joyous setting during the Fête de l’Humanité.

Maritime allure and regional delicacies in France in September

In September, the northwest French region of Brittany provides a lovely blend of gastronomic delights and nautical beauty. This area is well-known for its craggy coastline, charming fishing villages, and regional cuisine.

Discover the distinctive cultural legacy of the area and indulge in fresh seafood in the quaint towns of Saint-Malo and Concarneau. The Festival Interceltique de Lorient, which honours Celtic music and customs, is also held in Brittany. This event, which takes place in early September, highlights the region’s strong Celtic heritage with a procession, traditional dance performances, and concerts.

An electrifying music event in the heart of the capital.

An annual electronic music festival in Paris takes place in mid-September and is called the Techno Parade. Techno and electronic music performances by local and international DJs are part of this exciting parade and music event.

Beginning at the Place de la Nation, the procession makes its way through the streets of Paris while fervent festival attendees dance to the music aboard floats that are equipped with sound systems. The event usually ends with a huge outdoor celebration. For those who love electronic music, the Techno Parade is a unique and thrilling opportunity to tour Paris’s streets while dancing to electronic beats.

September in France is a period of change, with vineyards springing into life, châteaux revealing their autumn splendour, street parties resounding and the coastal beauty of Brittany calling. There is something to treasure for every traveller, whether they are enjoying the Bordeaux Wine Harvest, discovering the historical elegance of the Loire Valley, basking in the maritime allure of Brittany, or dancing to the beat of the Techno Parade in Paris. September captures the spirit of fall in France, a season rich in food, culture, and the ever-changing landscape’s splendour. September is a great time to explore the distinct charms and varied offerings of France as you organise your autumn vacation.

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10 Destinations Ideas for a September Vacation in France

It’s the start of the school year for many, but not for you! If you’re wondering where to go on vacation in September, we have prepared this list of the top ten September vacation destinations in France.

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par Sologne Tourisme 🦌 (@sologne_tourisme)

MAIN CHARACTERISTICS

Sunshine ★★★☆☆ 3/5 Cultural heritage ★★★★☆ 4/5 Entertainment ★★★☆☆ 3/5 Peacefulness ★★★★★ 5/5 Nature ★★★★★ 5/5

La Sologne is a natural region of France in the Centre-Val-de-Loire.

If you want to feel closer to nature, take a hike through the middle of the forest . You can choose from different routes, including one with hidden castles (website in French).

During this 12 mile route, you will discover the Château de Bon Hôtel, the Château de la Motte Longuet, and the Château de la Cantée.

During your stay, stop by the town of Romorantin and visit the Sologne Museum (website in French), which is spread between three old mills , to learn all about Leonardo da Vinci’s visit to the area at the invitation of King Francis I.

For the last seventeen years, an association called Nuits de Sologne (website in French) has been organizing pyrotechnic shows in the region during the month of September.

If you want to be dazzled by a huge fireworks show , go to Lamotte-Beuvron on the first weekend in September.

The show starts at 9:30 pm, but you can enjoy musical entertainment starting at 5 pm. It’s a good way to spend an unforgettable evening!

Sunshine ★★★★☆ 4/5 Cultural heritage ★★★☆☆ 3/5 Entertainment ★★★★☆ 4/5 Peacefulness ★★★☆☆  3/5 Nature ★★★★☆  4/5

This city near Marseille has a lot to offer.

Located by the Mediterranean Sea, the port city is also right next to a mountain: Mont Faron. You can take a cable car up the mountain to admire the city from above.

If you go all the way to the top, you can stop at the Parc Animalier du Mont Faron (website in French), a zoo with about twenty animal species.

While most are felines, there are also wolves, raccoons, chickens, baboons, and lemurs.

In addition, do not forget to stop at the Memorial of Mont Faron (website in French) which is dedicated to the landing and the liberation of Provence.

Every September, the Bol d’Or (website in French) takes place. This international motorcycle race lasts twenty-four hours. If you are a motorcycle enthusiast, you probably already know about it! The event takes place in Castellet on the Paul Ricard Circuit, not far from Toulon.

A crazy weekend with more than 500 drivers, 60,000 visitors, and a concert awaits you!

Sunshine ★★★☆☆ 3/5 Cultural heritage ★★★★★  5/5 Entertainment ★★★★★  5/5 Peacefulness ★★☆☆☆ 2/5 Nature ★★☆☆☆  2/5

As the official seat of the European Parliament , Strasbourg is a very important city in the Grand Est region.

It is so important that its city center, located on the Grande Île, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

While there, you can discover the Cathedral of Notre Dame de Strasbourg as well as a huge palace called the Palais Rohan , which houses several museums.

Stop by the Place Kléber to admire the iconic architecture of this city with many nicknames, including the City of Roads, the Capital of Christmas, and the Capital of Sauerkraut and Flammekueche.

In September, you can attend the Festival Musica (website in French), an international festival of contemporary classical music.

Yes, you read that correctly! The festival puts the most significant music of the 20th century on a collision course with new generations of artists.

This clash of musical generations is not to be missed if you like classical (and contemporary) music.

The event lasts about three weeks , and the program is packed with meetings, shows, and concerts hidden in unusual places throughout the city.

Sunshine ★★★★☆ 4/5 Cultural heritage ★★★★☆ 4/5 Entertainment ★★★☆☆ 3/5 Peacefulness ★★☆☆☆  2/5 Nature ★☆☆☆☆  1/5

The city of Dieppe is located on the edge of the English Channel and is full of surprises.

Come spend some time on the beach (even in September!) and admire the view of the sea and the horizon.

After getting your fill of the ocean breeze, take a stroll through the city, including its ports and the Pont Colbert, and visit the Musée de Dieppe (website in French), which is located in a historic castle .

You can also board the Dieppe tourist train near the beach if you prefer to explore the seaside city of art and history without doing too much walking.

The tour lasts about 45 minutes and takes you to the most important places in the city.

In September, the city welcomes nearly a thousand kite flyers from all over the world for the Festival International de Cerf-Volant de Dieppe .

If you like colorful shows, do not miss this festival: it will amaze you !

Saint-Tropez

Sunshine ★★★★★  5/5 Cultural heritage ★★★☆☆  3/5 Entertainment ★★★★☆ 4/5 Peacefulness ★★★☆☆ 3/5 Nature ★★★☆☆  3/5

Made famous by the numerous movies set in it, Saint-Tropez makes many people dream.

It is a coastal city that will inspire you with its remarkable preservation.

Its nightlife , like its beaches, continues to attract an international crowd.

A former fishing village , Saint-Tropez still has the charm of yesteryear, especially in the cobbled district of the Ponche .

Be sure to visit the Musée de la Gendarmerie et du Cinéma (website in French), which is famous for being the filming location of the saga Le Gendarme — a true gem of French movie culture.

In this museum, you can explore the myth and reality of Saint-Tropez through the movies!

If you visit Saint-Tropez in September, don’t miss the nautical event Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez (website in French) to admire both prestigious sailing ships and more modern ones.

Animations, crew parades, sailboat races… if you love the sea and sailing, you’ll love this event.

Sunshine ★★★☆☆ 3/5 Cultural heritage ★★★★☆ 4/5 Entertainment ★★★★☆ 4/5 Peacefulness ★★★★☆  4/5 Nature ★★★☆☆  3/5

Crémieu, a small village in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, is known for having preserved its medieval city .

If you want to enjoy a relaxing vacation near the mountains, look no further.

Be sure to taste the local specialties during your visit:

• The sabodet , a large pig’s head sausage
• The foyesse , a sugar pie
• The lauzes , thin sheets of chocolate with grated almonds and hazelnuts

In September, the village has a very atypical tradition. You can participate in the Médiévales de Crémieu (website in French), a festival that will let you travel back in time!

The event usually draws several tens of thousands of people, and dressing up is essential.

You can wear medieval costumes while discovering the various activities offered: a parade of costumes, street shows, demonstrations, exhibitions, and workshops.

The important thing during this festival is to have fun!

Sunshine ★★★☆☆ 3/5 Cultural heritage ★★★★★  5/5 Entertainment ★★★★★  5/5 Peacefulness ★★☆☆☆  2/5 Nature ★★☆☆☆  2/5

Deauville, a very famous city in Normandy, is located on the Côte Fleurie in northern France.

It is, above all, a luxurious coastal town with a large casino , several golf courses , and even horse races .

Even though the weather is generally cooler in September, we recommend going to the promenade Les Planches , which is right next to the beach and dates back to the 1920s.

You should also stop by Les Franciscaines , an impressive cultural venue that includes a museum , an auditorium, temporary exhibitions, and various workshops.

But why go to Deauville in September ?

The Festival du Cinéma Américain de Deauville , which began in 1975, takes place in September. It is the only European festival of this scale that is open to the public.

Five prizes are awarded each year at the festival’s Palmarès ceremony.

Whether you are a fan of Hollywood cinema or are simply curious, you will have the opportunity to watch more than 60 movies.

If you like American movie production, you won’t want to miss this event.

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par Ville de Tours (@villedetours)

Sunshine ★★★★☆ 4/5 Cultural heritage ★★★★☆ 4/5 Entertainment ★★★☆☆ 3/5 Peacefulness ★★☆☆☆  2/5 Nature ★★★☆☆  3/5

This university town is quite impressive for many reasons. First, it is surrounded by the Loire and the Cher , both of which are important rivers for the region.

It is also home to the Rue Nationale de Tours , a beautiful 800 meter long pedestrian street that runs from Place Anatole-France to Place Jean Jaurès.

Many shops, as well as the tram tracks, are located on this street.

If you’re eager to learn, stop by the Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle de Tours (website in French), which has its own vivarium that houses reptiles, amphibians, insects, and fish.

If you’re visiting the city in September , don’t miss the Vignes, Vins et Randos (website in French) event, which offers hikes and tastings in different nearby towns.

If you would rather stay in Tours, nine hikes are available in the area. Planned by winemakers, they are accessible to all. Breaks are also organized to allow participants to taste local products such as wine and cheese.

Sunshine ★★★★★  5/5 Cultural heritage ★★★☆☆ 3/5 Entertainment ★★★★☆ 4/5 Peacefulness ★★★★☆  4/5 Nature ★★★★★ 5/5

Calvi is a seaside town in Corsica with a half-moon shaped bay.

One of the town’s main attractions is its medieval citadel , a fortress perched high on the cliffs where the famous explorer Christopher Columbus is said to have been born.

A mountain peak, Capu Di à Veta , is also located near the city. From the peak, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the bay.

The beach and a mountain : what could be better?

If you visit in September, you can attend the Rencontres de Chants Polyphoniques (website in French), a cultural tradition of the city.

For five days, polyphonic groups from all over the world perform at the Citadel of Calvi, creating a unique moment in an atypical city.

Saint-Cloud

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par Ville de Saint-Cloud (@villedesaintcloud)

Sunshine ★★★☆☆ 3/5 Cultural heritage ★★☆☆☆ 2/5 Entertainment ★★★★☆ 4/5 Peacefulness ★★★☆☆  3/5 Nature ★★★☆☆  3/5

Located very close to Paris and bordered by the Seine, Saint-Cloud is the ideal destination if you don’t want to go far from the capital.

It is known for its enormous 460-hectare park that was once the home of a castle built by Louis XIV’s brother. Unfortunately, the castle was burned down in 1870 and razed in 1892.

Every year in September, the Grand Feu de Saint Cloud (website in French) is organized. It is the largest fireworks display in Europe.

Up to 23,000 people gather from 9 to 11 pm to see the fireworks. If you arrive early (around 8:30 pm) you can also enjoy a refreshment stand and a small restaurant.

If you travel to Paris in September , don’t miss this show. You will be immersed in a unique atmosphere as you anticipate each explosion.

I aim to share my tips and recommendations for the beautiful country of France. My goal is to help you plan your next adventure, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime trip. From finding the best hotels and restaurants, to discovering unique activities and sights, I’ve got you covered!

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• The Magic Of France In September 2024: The Best Places To See And Events To Attend

This magnificent city of France boasts of beautiful tourist places and a lovely charm that will simply make you want to stay here forever. Basking in the beauty of mother nature, France is located in Western Europe and consists of unique geographical features. It is an impeccable amalgamation of gastronomic adventures, picturesque landscapes, and historic legacy. Get ready to explore the charm of magnificent mountains, sun-kissed beaches, and beautiful vineyards in France in September. See what is there to see and do in this wonderful country in that month.

Weather Of France In September

Talking about the weather of France in September, it is usually moderate and you can feel the crispness of the fresh air around the city. Where temperature in France in September is concerned, it varies from place to place. During this month, evenings get colder and the sky turns grey. This truly implies the Alsace/Northeast region of the country with temperatures ranging between 10-21°C.

Paris witnesses an average temperature of 55-70°F (13-21°C) along with scanty rainfall. The highest and lowest temperature marked in the city of Bordeaux is 54–73 F (12–23 C) along with an average temperature of 61 F (16 C). The temperature of Lyon lies within the range of 54–73 F (12–23 C) with an average recorded temperature of 64 F (18 C).

6 Best Places To Visit In France In September

France boasts of bewitching destinations that will definitely make your vacation truly memorable. Standing out from other places, the below mentioned locales have captured the hearts of many people.

1. Bordeaux

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Eat, drink and have the liveliest time possible in Bordeaux. Walk through the streets of Bordeaux that are graceful. This eye-popping destination is located in the region of Aquitaine in the southwestern area of France. Bordeaux is where you can experience the mesmerizing sunset. An ideal place to rejuvenate and unwind, Bordeaux is a charming city that is well famed for growing wine. It is the biggest World Heritage Sites declared by UNESCO. Museums, cathedrals, churches and vintage mansions attract a wide influx of tourists all round the year. Do you know what makes France an amazing destination? Yes, its spectacular coffee shops, dining scene, food trucks, and good wine make Bordeaux the top explored destination.

Top attractions: Basilique Saint-Michel, Basilique Saint-Seurin, Cathédrale Saint-André, Le Grand Theatre and Place de la Bourse

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Marked as the famous tourist destinations in France is Paris. A centre of culture, food, fashion and architecture, Paris is the capital of France. Eiffel Tower is the most famous place to explore in Paris. You can view this place from any of the corners of Paris. ‘Iron Lady’ shines bright during the night that adds more charm to this city. Paris welcomes all the honeymooners with its romantic aura. It is the lively European city that boasts cityscape that reflects the world charm. Intricately designed monuments, hustling river banks, and museums draw tourists all around the globe to Paris.

Top attractions: Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Palace of Versailles, The Louvre, Montmartre and Arc de Triomphe

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3. French Riviera

French Riviera is the best tourist destination that is situated on the Mediterranean coast of France. Scenic beauty, amazing shoreline, and outstanding resorts make French Riviera top tourist destinations to explore. This is the most glamorous city that has earned a reputed position in the world map of tourism. The quaint perched villages and Cannes Film Festival make France hit the top explored places in France.

Top attractions: Eze, Monaco, La Colline du Château, Menton and Grasse

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4. Sacré-Coeur

Sacré-Coeur is the most popular landmark among tourists and is widely visited as well. This is a religious building that represents both the political and cultural aspects of France. This monument with its endless adoration is dedicated to the precious heart of Lord Jesus. A visual treat to one’s eye, Basilica du Sacré Coeur will surely charm you with its glittering white color. Despite the impact of weather conditions and pollution, over the years, this monument is still in pristine condition.

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5. Les Calanques de Cassis, Marseille

Encircled by the wonderful ambiance and vast outdoors, Les Calanques de Cassis is perhaps the best beach in France. Also, this beach is a hotspot for all adventure freaks and nature enthusiasts. Snap some amazing pictures on this lovely beach located in the Mediterranean Coast. Also, there is a Calanques National Park area that is ideal for hiking. Boating is another activity that people can indulge in this park. This is a heaven for nature enthusiasts where you can enjoy incredible views of the aqua blue water.

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6. Palombaggia, Corsica

Palombaggia houses umbrella-shaped pines, magnificent cliffs, and shimmering gold sand. Sorted under the excellent beaches of France, you can carry out various sports activities like kayaking, pedal boating, jet-skiing, and windsurfing. The key highlights of this place are Lavezzi and Cervicale. This is the most sort after best beaches in France in September that caters to both nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

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Top 4 Events In France In September

Fond of music, jazz, and wine? France will definitely satiate all your desires. In the month of September, there are plenty of events held to entertain you.

1. Braderie De Lille

Braderie de Lille is the top event in France in September, which draws the attention of tourists worldwide. This is a flea market organized in the first week of September. Stroll through the various stalls that are set up here. Also, you can attend several concerts that are conducted in order to entertain you. The traditional meal of Braderie de Lille is french fries & Mussels that are served at many stalls.

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2. The Basque Country Music Festival

If you are visiting France at the end of August or the beginning of September then attend this event that is the premier music festival of France. This event is hosted along the coast of the Atlantic in places like Biarritz and St-Jean-de-Luz.

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3. The Feria Du Riz

Feria du Riz is a festival that is celebrated for two days on the occasion of harvesting rice. It is hosted yearly in the middle of September in the Roman city of France named Arles. There are several vendors selling yummy paella and other dishes, prepared from Camargue red rice. This event represents the tradition of bullfighting in France.

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4. The Harvest In St Emilion

Saint-Emilion is a prime area for the production of wine and it is a city that is just an hour away from Bordeaux. A special time in Saint-Emilion is the harvest that has its own set of traditions. This event kicks off with a torch-lit procession.

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Watch the changing colors of Paris in Autumn as you visit it this September and you’ll see why they call it a dynamic city! Visiting Paris in September gives you the perfect chance to see and experience the best of this city with your loved ones. Book your tickets and enjoy your holiday in Paris to see what makes it so lovable and charming!

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About France In September

Is France warm in September?

France experiences a warm climate in September. Feel energized with the refreshing air and the evenings are quite cooler this month.

Is September a good month to go to Paris?

September is the perfect month to visit Paris as the travel rates are less comparatively. Also, you can explore Paris in its most beautiful form during the month of September.

Is Paris crowded in September?

The prime advantages of visiting Paris in September is that all the tourist destinations are less crowded when compared to other months.

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France in September: Weather, Tips & Great Bargains

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France in September offers warm weather with the added benefit of thinner crowds – a much-needed breather from the congested month of August. With summer in its twilight and autumn just around the corner, there are a host of wine-related festivals to take part in and mild water temperatures off the country’s coast beckon you to dive in. Now is a great time to explore Bordeaux and its wine-producing regions. You can also make the most of your stay in the country with a trip to the stunning French Riviera after the crowds have left.

France Weather in September

The weather in much of France in September feels very much like August – sun-kissed, warm and inviting – especially during the first week or two. The month’s second half, however, sees colder evenings and an overcast sky as fall begins to rear its chilly head. The northeastern region of the country bears the brunt of the autumnal cold, with average temperatures of 10 to 21°C. Elsewhere, the weather is still pleasant, with average temperatures of 12 to 23°C and 17 to 25°C in Bordeaux and Nice respectively. With thinner crowds, now is a great time to explore Paris, go on a wine tour in Burgundy and the Loire Valley, or take a dip in the crystal clear waters of Corsica. For a seasonal overview, read our travel article on the best time to visit France .

Weather in France in September - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit france in september.

With pleasant weather and thinner crowds, September in France is a great month for travelers looking for a relaxing vacation. This month offers respite from the choking heat and humidity that Paris can see in July and August, which means that you can enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city without sweating buckets. For thinner crowds and better bargains, consider visiting France during the month’s latter half, when it is closer to the low season. Below are the reasons why you should visit France in September.

• Great weather: September offers warmth, but not the humid kind that most of the country sees in July and August. Now is an excellent time to explore Paris ’ attractions without having to fear heatwaves. Visit the Louvre, climb the Eiffel Tower and marvel at Arc de Triomphe.
• Fewer crowds: With summer drawing to a close, children go back to school and locals return to work. Take this time to explore summer destinations like Corsica and the French Riviera.
• Wine country comes to life: The grape harvest season is in full swing throughout France’s wine country in September and wine-related festivities abound! Enjoy wine with jazz music in Burgundy’s Jazz a Beaune or go for an evening tour of Saint Emilion to celebrate its annual grape harvest.
• Extended hours: Attractions and museums throughout France are open in September, with several still offering extended hours to cater to travelers. Now is a great time to go museum-hopping!
• Great bargains: With summer crowds leaving the country, rates on airfare and accommodation plummet in September (especially during the month’s latter half). Secure good rates by booking in advance!

Where to go and what to do

Visiting France's wine-producing regions is one of the most popular things to do in France in September. Book a chateau in Burgundy and explore its architectural wonders and Michelin-starred restaurants, or head to the Loire Valley for a wine tour and gawk over its lavish royal castles surrounded by rows of vineyards. Bordeaux, the world's second-largest wine-growing region, is especially beautiful during this time of year. Explore Beaune , the region’s museums and enjoy wine-tasting sessions. With fewer tourists, September is an exceptional time to discover some of the best places in France. Consider visiting Paris during European Heritage Days, where its city hall and various other government buildings are open to the public. A trip to France in September is not complete without taking a dip in the Mediterranean. Now is a great time to kick back on the beaches of Corsica and the French Riviera.

What to bring

When thinking about what to pack for a trip to France in September, think summer days with chilly evenings. You can get by wearing light fabric and smothering some sunblock during the day. However, make sure that you pack a couple of warm clothes for cooler nights. Also, a lightweight raincoat and an umbrella would come handy when touring, especially in the northeast region, where there are chances of rain.

September is a great time to visit France as it offers everything you want from a great vacation - warm weather conditions, thinner crowds, a bevy of festivities, and cheaper prices towards the end of the month. In addition to all these, September is also when grapes are harvested, meaning you can be part of a host of wine-related activities in the country's most popular wine-producing regions. While the beaches in the country’s south are not free of visitors during this time of the year, there are less crowds on the country’s sandy stretches compared with August, making it an ideal time to relax along the Mediterranean coast. Browse through our collection of tour itineraries in France , or connect with our travel experts in the country to get a customized trip to France. If you're interested, you may want to check out our France trips in September .

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September in Paris: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

L. Toshio Kishiyama / Getty Images 

September has always been a cherished and exciting time in Paris, the City of Light . There's a sense of transition that many people find exciting and stimulating, as summer laziness culminates and a surge of energy from la rentrée —a very French concept that translates roughly as "back to school" but concerns adults too—falls over the city. At this time of year, everything comes out of summer vacation mode, from shops reopening to politicians getting back to work and newspapers grinding out thicker editions again. Even more so than the January 1 New Year in Paris , September is the city's de facto  nouvel an .

With the peak tourist season winding down, air and hotel fares take a dip, but the weather is still comfortably warm with less chance of a heatwave. The laid-back, summer-vacation ambiance is still lingering around the city, but most Parisians are back in town, creating an interesting mix of fun and authenticity. Those wishing to avoid the cramped conditions of peak season may find September to be one of the best times of the lower season to visit. Late September is probably the better choice for avoiding the tail-end of high season, however.

Paris Weather in September

September in Paris is pleasantly warm, albeit a bit damp. Rain showers are common, but usually arrive in short and powerful bursts instead of lasting an entire day. The heatwaves that often punctuate the summer months with oppressively hot days—air-conditioning isn't a household appliance in Paris—have mostly subsided by the time September arrives, so you can comfortably walk around during the day without burning up.

The average high temperature starts at 73 degrees Fahrenheit (23 degrees Celsius) at the beginning of the month but drops to 66 degrees Fahrenheit (19 degrees Celsius) by the end. Nights can also be chilly, with an average low temperature of 54 degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius) throughout the month.

There's about a 23 percent chance of experiencing a rainy day in Paris in September, so if you're there for more than a few days you're likely to see at least some precipitation. There are plenty of indoor activities to keep travelers entertained in Paris on a rainy day , from museums to charming bistros, so keep your itinerary flexible in case you need to make a last-minute change to accommodate the weather.

What to Pack

Since September is the tail-end of summer in Paris, sunny and balmy days are the most probable. You should pack light layers that are easy to remove for both sunny and cooler conditions. Don't forget to bring a hat or visor, sunglasses, and other gear for clear days when you wish to spend time lounging in one of  Paris' best parks and gardens . A reusable water bottle helps to save money and plastic, since bottled water can be expensive in Paris. You can fill it up with tap water from your hotel or any restaurant or use one of the drinking fountains scattered about the city—some of which even dispense sparkling water.

A light jacket that's water-resistant is ideal, not only to keep you warm in the evenings but also to slip on in case you get caught in a sudden shower. An umbrella would also be helpful, although if you have limited space they're easy to buy on the street once the rain starts falling.

Bring along good, sturdy pair of walking shoes. Visits to Paris usually involve lots of strolling, and the Paris metro is notorious for its seemingly endless tunnels and stairs. Don't let blisters and aching feet ruin what would otherwise be a fantastic trip.

September Events in Paris

• Jazz à la Villette : This annual jazz festival takes place September 4–13, 2020, at Villette Park in the 19th Arrondissement. Some concerts take place outside to take advantage of the summer evenings, while others are inside the gorgeous Paris Philharmonic building, which is located in the same park.
• Paris Design Week : Paris Design Week is an international festival dedicated to interior design. Venues across Paris turn into showrooms and concept stores exhibiting the latest artwork by designers from all over the world. The 2020 event has been turned into a digital format and takes place from September 4–18.
• Techno Parade : Lovers of electronic music can take a break from nightclubs and dance in the streets at this annual Paris festival. The Techno Parade starts at Place de la Nation and features massive floats with renowned DJs. The 2020 Techno Parade is canceled but returns in September 2021.
• The Paris Autumn Festival : Since 1972, the Paris Autumn Festival or " Festival d'Automne à Paris " has brought in the post-summer season with a bang by highlighting some of the most compelling works in contemporary visual art, music, cinema, theater, and other forms. It starts in September every year and runs through winter.
• Fête de Jardins : The Fête de Jardins—or Paris Garden Festival—is a weekend-long botanical event that takes place in September each year. Gardens around the city that are usually closed to the public open up for free, while the city's most popular gardens host special events to celebrate the fall blooms and Paris foliage.

September Travel Tips

• Since residents around France and Europe are heading back to work and school in September, you can often find great deals for flights and hotels throughout the month, especially in the latter half of September.
• Paris' many tree-lined boulevards begin to turn bright amber, red, and orange throughout September, making it one of the most striking months to enjoy a walk around the city.
• The Champagne region of France—where the world-famous bubbly drink is produced—is an easy day trip away from Paris. The grape harvest usually starts in mid-September, so it's a perfect excursion to escape from the city.
• September can also be an ideal time for experiencing a  cruise on the Seine river , especially on hot days when the breeze off the water offers a welcome reprieve.
• September gives visitors the ideal temperatures for taking a walking tour around Paris , as long as the weather stays dry.

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• Travel Destinations

What To Pack For A Trip To France In September

Published: December 5, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Wynny Ducharme

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Essentials & Accessories
• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Planning a trip to France in September? You’re in for a treat! September is a great time to visit this beautiful country, with pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and a variety of exciting events and festivals happening. Whether you’re exploring the picturesque streets of Paris, savoring delicious wines in Bordeaux, or basking in the sun in the French Riviera, packing the right essentials is crucial to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

In this article, we’ll guide you on what to pack for a trip to France in September, taking into consideration the weather, activities, and cultural norms. From clothing and shoes to accessories, toiletries, electronics, and travel documents, we’ve got you covered.

France enjoys a moderate climate in September, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). However, it’s always a good idea to be prepared for unexpected weather changes. So, let’s dive into the essential items you should pack for your September adventure in France!

When it comes to packing clothing for your trip to France in September, versatility is key. The weather can vary, so it’s important to be prepared for both warm and cooler temperatures. Here are some clothing items you should consider including in your suitcase:

• A light jacket or cardigan: Even though September in France is generally pleasant, evenings can sometimes get chilly. Having a light layer to throw on will keep you comfortable.
• T-Shirts and blouses: Pack a mix of short-sleeve and long-sleeve tops that you can layer depending on the weather. Opt for breathable and comfortable fabrics like cotton.
• Pants and jeans: Bring a couple of pairs of pants or jeans for day-to-day activities. Jeans are versatile and can be dressed up or down.
• Skirts or dresses: Pack a couple of skirts or dresses for a more dressy or feminine look. Pair them with a cardigan or jacket for cooler days.
• Sweaters or sweatershirts: September can bring cooler days, especially as the month progresses. Having a couple of sweaters or sweatershirts will come in handy.
• Comfortable walking shoes: Exploring France often involves a lot of walking, so choose comfortable shoes that are suitable for different terrains. Sneakers or flats are a good option.

Remember to pack clothes in neutral colors, which can be easily mixed and matched, allowing you to create different outfits with fewer items. Don’t forget to also pack underwear, socks, and sleepwear based on your personal preferences and the duration of your trip.

Choosing the right shoes for your trip to France in September is essential. You’ll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so comfort and practicality should be your top priorities. Here are some shoe options to consider packing:

• Comfortable walking shoes: Invest in a pair of comfortable walking shoes that provide good support, cushioning, and stability. Opt for sneakers, walking shoes, or flats that are suitable for long periods of walking.
• Stylish sandals: September in France can still be warm, so having a pair of stylish sandals is a must. They are perfect for strolls along the beach or exploring the charming streets of coastal towns.
• Dressy shoes: If you plan on dining out at fancy restaurants or attending formal events, pack a pair of dressy shoes like heels or loafers. Choose ones that are comfortable enough to wear for extended periods of time.
• Waterproof shoes: September in France can also bring some rain, so having a pair of waterproof shoes or boots is a wise choice. This will keep your feet dry and comfortable on rainy days.
• Slip-on shoes: Having a pair of slip-on shoes like loafers or ballet flats is convenient for easy on and off while going through airport security or for a quick change of shoes after a long day of sightseeing.

It’s a good idea to break in your shoes before your trip to avoid discomfort or blisters. Be sure to consider the activities you’ll be doing and the places you’ll be visiting when selecting your footwear. Remember, fashion and comfort can go hand in hand!

Accessories

When packing for your trip to France in September, don’t forget to bring along some essential accessories to enhance your style and make your journey more convenient. Here are a few must-have accessories to consider:

• Scarves: Scarves are a versatile accessory that can add a pop of color to your outfits and provide warmth when the temperatures drop. Choose lightweight scarves for early September and slightly heavier ones as the month progresses.
• Hats: Sun hats or caps are a great addition, especially if you’re planning to spend a lot of time outdoors. They not only protect you from the sun’s rays but also add a stylish touch to your overall look.
• Sunglasses: A good pair of sunglasses is essential during your visit to France, as you’ll likely spend a lot of time outdoors exploring the cities and enjoying the beautiful scenery. Protect your eyes while looking fashionable.
• Handbags: Opt for a crossbody bag or a backpack that’s both functional and fashionable. It will keep your belongings secure and allow you to navigate the streets of France hands-free.
• Jewelry: When it comes to jewelry, less is more. Choose a few versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched with different outfits. Consider packing a statement necklace, simple earrings, and a classic watch.
• Umbrella: September can bring occasional rain showers, so having a compact umbrella in your bag will ensure you stay dry during unexpected downpours.

With these accessories, you’ll be prepared for any situation while adding a touch of style to your outfits. Remember to pack accessories that match your personal style and preferences, and don’t forget to leave some room in your suitcase for any new accessories you might pick up during your travels in France!

When it comes to toiletries, it’s important to pack the essentials while keeping in mind the travel restrictions and regulations. Here are some toiletries that should be included in your packing list for your trip to France in September:

• Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner: Opt for small, travel-sized bottles of your favorite shampoo and conditioner to save space in your luggage. Alternatively, you can also purchase these items upon arrival.
• Body wash or soap: Pack a travel-sized bottle of body wash or a bar of soap for your daily shower routine. Consider choosing a gentle and moisturizing formula.
• Toothbrush and toothpaste: Don’t forget to pack your toothbrush and toothpaste for your daily oral hygiene routine. It’s always a good idea to have an extra toothbrush on hand, just in case.
• Deodorant: September in France can still have warm temperatures, so keeping odor at bay is essential. Pack your preferred deodorant to stay fresh throughout the day.
• Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays by packing a sunscreen with a high SPF. Even in September, the sun can still be strong, especially if you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors.
• Moisturizer: Keep your skin hydrated and moisturized by packing your favorite moisturizer. This will help combat any dryness caused by the changing weather.
• Makeup: If you wear makeup, bring along your essential items such as foundation, mascara, and lipstick. Keep it minimal and pack versatile products that can be used for different occasions.
• Hair styling tools: If you use hair styling tools such as a straightener or curling iron, consider bringing a travel-sized version or check if your accommodation provides them.
• Other personal items: Don’t forget any other personal hygiene items you may need, such as contact lenses, prescription medications, feminine hygiene products, and any special skincare items.

Remember to pack your toiletries in a clear, sealable bag to comply with airport security regulations. If you have any specific requirements or preferences, it’s always a good idea to check and see if you can purchase them at your destination.

Electronics

When traveling to France in September, it’s important to bring along the necessary electronics to stay connected, capture memorable moments, and enhance your overall travel experience. Here are some essential electronics to consider packing:

• Smartphone and charger: Your smartphone is a must-have travel companion. It allows you to stay connected, navigate unfamiliar places, and capture beautiful photos. Don’t forget to pack your charger or consider bringing a portable power bank for on-the-go charging.
• Camera: If you prefer high-quality photos, consider bringing a camera. Whether it’s a DSLR or a compact point-and-shoot camera, make sure you have it handy to capture the stunning landscapes, iconic landmarks, and vibrant street scenes of France.
• Adaptor and converter: France uses a different electrical plug type (European plug) and voltage (220V) from many other countries. Make sure to pack a universal adaptor and voltage converter if your devices aren’t compatible with European electrical systems.
• Laptop or tablet: If you need to work while traveling or want to browse the internet and stay connected more comfortably, consider packing a laptop or tablet. It can also be useful for storing and organizing travel documents, photos, and entertainment.
• E-book reader or tablet: If you enjoy reading, an e-book reader or tablet can be a great addition to your travel arsenal. It allows you to carry multiple books in a compact form, saving space and weight in your luggage.
• Portable speakers: If you enjoy listening to music or podcasts, bring along portable speakers for your hotel room or outdoor picnics. They can add a fun and lively atmosphere to your trip.
• Headphones: A good pair of headphones is essential for enjoying music, podcasts, or in-flight entertainment without disturbing others. Noise-canceling headphones are especially handy for long flights or train rides.
• Travel adapter for car: If you plan on renting a car and using electronic devices, consider getting a car charger adapter to keep your gadgets powered during road trips.

When packing electronics, remember to store them securely in your carry-on luggage and protect them from potential damage. If you plan to use your devices extensively, check the available charging options and voltage compatibility at your accommodation.

Travel Documents

When preparing for your trip to France in September, it’s crucial to ensure you have all the necessary travel documents organized and ready. Here are the essential travel documents you need to bring:

• Passport: Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from France. Check the expiration date before traveling and make a photocopy or digital copy of the main identification page.
• Visa: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter France or the Schengen Area. Check the visa requirements well in advance and apply if necessary.
• Flight tickets: Keep your flight tickets and any necessary confirmations or e-tickets readily available. Ensure that you have a printed or digital copy of your itinerary.
• Travel insurance: It’s highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption, and lost or stolen belongings. Keep a copy of your insurance policy with you.
• Hotel reservations: Print or save your hotel reservations and any confirmations on a mobile device for easy access during your trip. It’s also useful to have the contact information of your accommodations.
• Driver’s license: If you plan to rent a car and drive in France, remember to bring your driver’s license and an international driver’s permit (if required).
• Credit cards and cash: Bring a few major credit cards for convenience and emergencies. It’s also recommended to carry some cash in euros for situations where cards may not be accepted.
• Health-related documents: If you have any specific health conditions or allergies, it’s a good idea to bring a copy of relevant medical documents or prescriptions. If you’re bringing medications, make sure they are properly labeled.
• Travel guidebooks and maps: While not technically travel documents, guidebooks and maps can be handy resources during your trip. They provide valuable information about attractions, restaurants, and navigating the city.

Make sure to keep all your travel documents in a secure and easily accessible place, such as a travel wallet or a folder in your carry-on luggage. It’s also advisable to have electronic copies stored on your mobile device or emailed to yourself for backup.

Medications

If you take any medications, it’s essential to plan ahead and ensure that you have an adequate supply for your trip to France in September. Here are some things to consider when packing medications:

• Prescription medications: If you take any prescription medications, make sure you have enough to last throughout your trip. It’s a good idea to carry them in their original packaging, along with a copy of the prescription or a doctor’s note.
• Over-the-counter medications: Think about common over-the-counter medications you may need, such as pain relievers, antacids, motion sickness medication, or allergy medication. It’s also helpful to carry a basic first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic ointment, and any other personal medications or supplies you may require.
• Travel sickness medications: If you’re prone to motion sickness during flights, road trips, or boat rides, consider packing medications such as ginger candies, anti-nausea wristbands, or over-the-counter motion sickness medications.
• Allergy medications: September in France may trigger allergies for some individuals. If you have any known allergies, be prepared with appropriate antihistamines or allergy medications to manage any symptoms that may arise.
• Health insurance information: Keep your health insurance information, including the details of your policy and emergency contact numbers, easily accessible. Familiarize yourself with the coverage provided by your insurance while traveling abroad.
• Translation of medication names: If you don’t speak French, consider preparing a translated list of your medications and their dosages. This can be helpful in case you need to seek medical assistance during your trip.

It’s always wise to consult with your healthcare provider before traveling to ensure that you have all the necessary medications and medical information for a hassle-free trip. Additionally, be aware of the customs regulations in France regarding medications, especially if you’re carrying controlled substances.

Entertainment

While exploring the beautiful sights of France is already an exciting experience, having some entertainment options on hand can make your trip even more enjoyable, especially during downtime or long journeys. Here are some entertainment items you may want to consider packing:

• Books or e-books: If you’re an avid reader, pack a few books or load up your e-book reader with your favorite titles. It’s a great way to relax and immerse yourself in a different world during flights, train rides, or lazy afternoons.
• Music and podcasts: Create a playlist or download your favorite music albums and podcasts to keep you entertained while exploring or sitting back and relaxing. Don’t forget to pack your headphones for a more immersive experience.
• Travel games or playing cards: Bring along a deck of cards or some compact travel games to enjoy with your travel companions or fellow travelers. It’s a fun way to bond, pass the time, and create lasting memories.
• Movies or series: Load up your tablet or laptop with your favorite movies or TV series for some in-flight or in-room entertainment. Make sure to download them beforehand, as streaming may not be available or convenient during your travels.
• Language learning materials: If you’re interested in picking up some French phrases during your trip, consider packing language learning materials such as phrasebooks, language apps, or audio lessons. It’s a fun and interactive way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
• Notebook and pens: Carry a small notebook and pens to jot down your travel experiences, thoughts, or any useful information you come across. It can serve as a travel journal or a handy tool for capturing memorable moments.
• Camera or drawing supplies: If you have a passion for photography or sketching, pack your camera or sketchbook and art supplies. Capture the stunning landscapes and architecture of France, or let your creativity flow in a local park or café.
• Outdoor gear: If you plan on spending time outdoors, consider bringing equipment for activities such as hiking, biking, or swimming. Pack items like a portable yoga mat, a frisbee, or a beach ball to have fun and keep active.

Bringing along some entertainment options will help keep you entertained during transit, relaxation time, or when weather conditions aren’t ideal for outdoor activities. It’s all about making the most of your travel experience and enjoying every moment!

Miscellaneous Items

When packing for your trip to France in September, there are a few miscellaneous items that can come in handy and make your journey more comfortable. Here are some miscellaneous items to consider including in your luggage:

• Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is important, especially while exploring. Bring a reusable water bottle to fill up throughout the day and reduce plastic waste.
• Travel pillow and blanket: Long flights or train rides can be more comfortable with a travel pillow and blanket. Opt for compact and lightweight options that are easy to carry.
• Travel adapter and power strip: A travel adapter is essential for charging your electronic devices, but packing a power strip can be helpful if you have multiple devices to charge at once and limited access to electrical outlets.
• Portable umbrella: September in France can bring occasional rain showers. A compact, foldable umbrella will keep you dry and protect you from unexpected downpours.
• Snacks: Pack some non-perishable snacks like granola bars, nuts, or dried fruit for moments when you’re on the go and need a quick bite to eat. It can also be useful during long flights or delays.
• Travel locks: Keep your belongings secure by using travel locks for your luggage or daypack. Choose locks that are TSA-approved for hassle-free security checks.
• Ziplock bags: Pack a few ziplock bags for storing snacks, keeping documents organized, storing wet clothes, or keeping liquids from leaking in your luggage.
• Reusable shopping bag: France is known for its markets and shopping opportunities. Bring a reusable shopping bag to carry your purchases and reduce plastic waste.

Additionally, consider any specific items you may need based on your interests or activities planned during your trip. Whether it’s a swimsuit for beach excursions, a portable phone charger for extra battery life, or a foldable backpack for day trips, these miscellaneous items can add to your overall convenience and comfort.

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Paris in September 2024 – What to See, Eat, Pack & Do!

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Visiting Paris in September? That’s a smart pick. You’ll catch the city still in the embrace of summer, offering lovely weather and outdoor activities. Plus, the Parisians are back in town after their long summer vacation.

September marks ‘la rentrée’ in Paris. It’s when life picks up pace again after summer. The kids are back in school, and the locals fill the streets, bringing back that distinct Parisian energy.

You’ll love how the city feels alive again. Shops and restaurants are open, ready to give you a taste of the real Paris. Enjoying Paris in September lets you experience its charm fully, with just the right touch of vibrancy.

In this article, I will share with you everything you need to know before traveling to Paris in September:

• Weather Info & Packing Tips
• Seasonal Travel Info
• Events & Things to do in September

Salut, I am Lena – travel planning expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

Interesting reads for your trip to Paris:

• The Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival (2024)
• 14 Best Things to Do This Autumn in Paris – Tips & Travel Info (2024)
• Bouillons in Paris: These are the 5 most authentic Parisian Restaurants

Everything you need to know if you spend this September in Paris

September in Paris holds a special place in my heart. It’s like the city gets a fresh start after the summer, with a unique atmosphere that you can almost feel in the air.

And I expect that this feeling will be even amplified in 2024, with the Parisians being happy that the Olympic Games and Paralympics Games are over and everything gets back to normal.

The cafés and terraces buzz with life, filled with people enjoying the warm, sometimes even hot, September days. Museums welcome visitors with new exhibitions. Furthermore, the likelihood of encountering those overwhelming heat waves typical of summer are much lower.

How are the crowds in Paris in September?

September is a high season in Paris! Even though the big crowds from July and August are long gone, Paris is nowhere close to being empty or crowd free. Quite the contrary, expect Paris to be busy.

Visitors that are not bound to school vacations are flocking to Paris to enjoy the pleasant combination of beautiful weather and lesser crowds . If you plan to visit Paris this September, plan a bit ahead.

Popular sights are easily sold out and you better make sure to get tickets in time. This also prevents you from queuing and wasting precious time.

Below is a list of sights that have either the longest queues or are sold out often weeks in advance:

• Eiffel Tower – Buy your ticket here: GetYourGuide   ┃ Viator
• Catacombs  – Buy your ticket here: GetYourGuide ┃ Viator
• Château de Versailles – Buy your ticket here: GetYourGuide ┃ Viator
• Louvre – Buy your ticket here: GetYourGuide ┃ Viator

Prices can vary, best you compare.

The Rentrée in Paris

In 2024, the rentrée is on Monday, the 4th of September. Everyone will be back in Paris from their annual break by the 1st, and if you pay close attention, you’ll notice the busy Parisians running from A to B.

Stocking up on school supplies, signing up for activities, buying new clothes for their kids and themselves, and taking advantage of reductions that many stores are offering around this time.

The rentrée is a big thing in France , almost a season on its own. Even though you as a visitor and on vacation won’t be much affected by this event, I think it’s still nice to know what are all the rentrée signs and posters are about!

CHECKLIST for your Paris Trip

✔ Hotel booked?

• Budget: Hotel France Albion (8.6)
• Midrange: Hôtel des Arts (9.6)
• Upscale: Millésime Hôtel (9.2)
• Luxury: La Demeure Montaigne (9.1)
• My Favorite: Hôtel Monte Cristo

✔ Tickets booked?

• Eiffel Tower ( book here )
• Paris City Pass ( book here )
• Louvre ( book here )
• Arc de Triomphe ( book here )
• Hop On Hop Off Bus ( book here )

🎁🎁 Exclusive 5% off on Seine Cruises – BOOK HERE with our code SALUT5 🎁🎁

Paris Survival Tips

• Buy your SIM card in advance
• Get a Travel Adapter
• Book your airport transfer
• Download the free survival guide

Fun Activities

• Explore the Covered Arcades
• Discover the quaint Bookstores
• Find Paris Hidden Cocktail Bars
• Take an easy Day Trip by train

September will give you a wonderful time in Paris. You can enjoy the city to the fullest with everything being open, but without the paralyzing heat waves ( carnicule in French) you often encounter in July and August.

Expect great weather and plenty of  fun things to do thanks to the many cool events, picnics in the beautiful parks , river cruises, and museum exhibitions .

No matter what type of vacation you are looking for, the month of September is a wonderful time to visit Paris.

How’s the September Weather in Paris?

Your vacation in Paris in September will likely be characterized by warm weather and sunshine . But the oppressing heat you find in August is mostly over.

September is the transition month from summer to fall in Paris , but it really feels more summer than anything else. Especially in the first half of the month.

As the month progresses, it will get cooler though, but you can still expect sunshine and pleasant temperatures.

The average temperature during the day in September is 22 degrees, with 7 rain days.

Despite all the good forecasts and the likelihood of warm, sunny, and pleasant weather, it could still throw you curveballs: you might experience days of rain with temperatures as low as 13 degrees . Hence, pack a sweater!

Is a Hotel with AC Necessary in September?

Considering it could indeed be warm, especially in the first half of September, your best choice is to book a Hotel with air-conditioning. This sounds like a no-brainer, but AC is not a given in Paris. If AC is not mentioned in the hotel description, there is usually none.

Related post if you are looking for hotels in Paris with AC:

• Budget Hotels: Best Ibis Hotels in Paris
• 14 Hotels with Eiffel Tower views
• Top 14 Hotels in Paris with a Balcony
• My personal favorite : Hôtel Monte Cristo

What to wear in Paris in September 2024

In September, you best prepare to dress in light layers. It can be still very summery warm, hot even, but at least pleasant. The mornings and evenings might start to be fresh though.

Hence, you should bring a light jacket and a sweater. A light scarf can be useful as well.

Another thing you should have in your purse? A little travel umbrella , just in case the rain starts falling!

As always, the best move is to look at the forecast before leaving for your vacation and pack accordingly. But generally, you will have pleasant days in September, with warm sunshine and fresh mornings and evenings.

When packing for your trip to Paris this September, ensure you pack the items below to be prepared for the September weather.

Pack Comfortable Sneakers

Also interesting:   Best walking shoes for Paris in 2023

There is this very persistent rumor that you stick out like a sore thumb if you wear sneakers in Paris. Once and for all: No, you don’t.

Be prepared for sunny weathers

Pack Sunglasses

Yes, you better have your shades with you when traveling to Paris in September. The days can be sunny and are still considerably long. Plus, a nice pair of sunglasses easily dresses up a comfortable sightseeing outfit.

There are many shades to choose from. Every fashion brand has its line of sunglasses: Ray-Ban , Prada , Gucci , and Michael Korrs are only some of the numerous options you have.

But if you want to wear something unique, Paris is the perfect place to show off your vintage sunglasses! Go for some shopping at the flea market at Porte de Vanves , and buy yourself a brand new (but old) pair of sunglasses!

Pack Light Pants to dress up and down

These pants are the best travel item for late summer. They are soft, comfortable, and insanely versatile . You can wear them casually with sneakers and a t-shirt during the day when sightseeing in Paris. But also, easily dress them up with a pair of flats or loafers and a blouse for dinner.

The elastic waist and the wide leg make them comfy to wear, too. An ideal item for your wardrobe when traveling to Paris . They exist in many colors, but when traveling to Paris, black is always a safe bet.  See here how affordable they are.

Be prepared for rainy weathers

Pack a Light Scarf

There is rarely an item so versatile as a scarf. Whether you wear it around your neck to keep you warm or around your shoulders to replace a light jacket if it gets a bit fresh in the evening.

A scarf certainly belongs in your bag if you travel to Paris in September. A lightweight scarf also takes no space up in your purse, you can have it with you all day and just take it out when needed. As a plus, a scarf is also a wonderful accessory to level up your outfit.

Pack A Small Travel Umbrella

Honestly, you shouldn’t travel anywhere in Europe without a little umbrella in your

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Best things to do in Paris in September 2024

For your trip to Paris in September, you need to know that you’ll be in town at high season. It is not as packed as August anymore, but still crowded.

Paris sees many tourists in September, and contrary to August, many Parisians as well. After summer vacation, Parisians and tourists alike are eager to enjoy dinners, culture, and shopping.

Depending on what you want to do, tickets for sights and exhibitions might be a rare good.

Must-Do: Book your Tickets in Advance

Like everywhere in high season, many people want the same thing: to visit the top sights and enjoy Paris. But tickets to most sights are limited.

To spare you from disappointment, plan ahead and reserve as many tickets as you can in advance.

Here’s precisely why:

• The main attractions are in high demand in September.
• Famous sights like the Eiffel Tower are often booked out for weeks , especially during highseason.
• Buying tickets on-site often includes queuing for hours and a huge time loss!

To make sure you get tickets and to avoid wasting time queuing, you really should secure your entrance tickets before you arrive in Paris. The earlier, the better.

These sights are in the HIGHEST demand :

For your convenience, here’s a list of sights you need to reserve beforehand.

• The Eiffel Tower – click here for tickets to the summit!
• The Louvre – Click here to see the Mona Lisa
• The Catacombs  – click here to enter Paris’ underground
• The Castle of Versailles – book your ticket here

You can also (try to) buy tickets on the attraction’s website. However, most of them don’t have a cancellation policy and/or are sold-out super fast. If you want to remain a minimum flexible, I recommend booking your Paris tickets with get your guide.

Get your Guide grants you a 24h cancellation and full reimbursement policy, their website is easy to navigate, in English and the tickets are very convenient mobile tickets.

I use them for my bookings as well and find them insanely easy.

#1 Enjoy the Last Days of Summer on a Seine Cruise

Book your tickets for an unforgettable Seine Cruise here ( for as little as €15! )

No matter the season, you will enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Seine either way, but I dare to say that a cruise in September is especially nice.

It is still warm enough in September in Paris to enjoy the outside deck to the fullest. But it is also beautiful, to see the first hints of autumn popping up here and there. This, mixed with the golden late summer light … unforgettable!

You can spend wonderful hours doing a cruise on the Seine River . There are plenty of different cruising options suitable for all budgets.

• Budget Option: simple but stunning: 1h Seine Cruise
• Best Value for Money: 3-Course Dinner Cruise 
• A Special Treat: Gourmet Dinner à la Carte Cruise

You can take in Paris` beauty from an unusual perspective while relaxing and sailing down the Seine.

Even Better Alternative: Take a Cruise on the Canal St. Martin

If you want to combine the Seine with something extraordinary, combine the Seine Cruise with a trip through the locks of the Canal St.Martin !

It’s a very fascinating tour, that I took actually in August this year myself, and can warmly recommend it.

I booked this tour with GetYourGuide , but is also available through  Viator for the same price.

As a plus, the commentary (in English) was outstanding. Despite living here for so many years, I’ve learned plenty of interesting things about Paris, and I am sure you’ll enjoy it too.

The Canal leads from the Seine, through a tunnel under the Bastille, to the North of Paris. On your trip, you cross many locks to balance the height difference through Paris.

#2 Explore Paris by Bike

Book your bike ride through Paris here

If you are worried to rent a Vélib in Paris on your own, a guided bike tour through Paris is perfect for you.

It is a wonderful way to see the city. You’ll be able to see all the major sights , and you won’t have to worry about getting lost. Plus, it’s a great way to get some exercise while you’re on vacation.

The tour will take you past all the famous landmarks, but you also get to ride through some of the less touristy areas of the city, which is always nice.

The tour guide will be able to tell you all about the history of Paris, and they’ll make sure you have a great time. I highly recommend taking a guided bike tour of Paris if you ever get the chance.

#3 Visit the Eiffel Tower

Quick Access : Book your ticket to the summit right here

Nothing screams “Paris” more than its famous symbol: The Eiffel Tower. Built in 1889, the Eiffel Tower is one of the best places to enjoy a magnificent view of Paris.

You can either visit the 2nd floor by climbing the stairs or taking the elevator. You can also opt in to head up to the summit, by elevator, of course. Both platforms are granting you breathtaking views, but for many, the summit is the real bucket list item !

The most budget-friendly option to visit the Eiffel Tower and enjoy the view is by climbing using the stairs to the 2nd floor.

However, tickets are only sold on the homepage a couple of weeks in advance or with a bit of luck (and lots of queuing) on the day of your visit directly to the tower.

Interesting articles if you are traveling on a budget to Paris :

• 21 Simple Ways to Save Money in Paris
• 70+ Free & Fun Things to do in Paris
• What NOT to do in Paris -23 (costly) Paris Mistakes you need to avoid!

Tip: Book your Tickets in advance

If a visit to the Eiffel Tower is not negotiable for you, I advise you not to gamble and buy a ticket for the elevator in advance . Compare prices here: Get Your Guide and Viator .

Especially this year, the Eiffel Tower is crazily high in demand, and many have problems finding tickets at all. Get them while you can! If the official ticket online sales point has no tickets anymore, check here:

• Direct Access to the Eiffel Tower Summit by Lift
• 2nd Floor & Seine Champagne Cruise Bundle
• 2nd Floor, direct access by Elevator

#4 Take a Trip to the Magical Loire Castles

Book your day trip to the Loire Castles here 

If you have a spare day, and you wonder what else you could do during your trip to Paris in September, I suggest considering a day trip from Paris. 

Also interesting:   21 Easy Day Trips by Train from Paris

The Loire castles are 2.5h away from Paris and perfect for a day trip , especially in September: The middle of the wine harvest season in France, and the wine from the Loire Region is very.

The easiest way to visit the Loire Castles: Book a Tour from Paris

Considering the time it takes to organize this trip, plus the costs of a rental car, your best option (value & price) is simply booking a tour from Paris.

One of the most popular tours to the Loire Valley from Paris is  this one . It contains transportation from Paris, entrance fees to 2 beautiful castles, a visit to the town Blois, and a wine tasting .  Book this magical trip here and

Also, take a look at our article about the best and easiest  day trips from Paris by train  to get more ideas.

#5 Explore Montmartre

Click here to know about schedules, prices, and bookings

Montmartre is honestly one of the most lovely but also unique areas of Paris. Back in the days, Montmartre was just a settlement outside the city gates. Even though Montmartre became a part of Paris more than 160 years ago, the district kept its village charm and strong identity.

You maybe know that Montmartre is a ridge, and the views over Paris from up there are something you must have seen.

Walking Montmartre on your own is already pretty awesome, but you will after all miss half of the magic, that lies hidden in anecdotes, stories, and legends . Montmartre has so many mysteries that it is definitely valuable to spend the extra penny and  join a guided walking tour.

If you are traveling to Paris on a shoestring budget, consider this tour . It is the most budget-friendly but also the most popular walking tour in Montmartre.

What’s going on in Paris in September 2024

September is the month of the rentree and the last month with the occasion to catch some late summer vibes in Paris.

Discover all the best events that will take place in the city of Paris in September 2024.

Until the 8 September – Paralympic Games in Paris

More infos and schedules here

until 11 September – Jazz à la Villette

Annual Jazz Festival in the north of Paris. Check their website for info.

September – Silhouette Festival (Dates to be confirmed)

The fantastic Parisian end-of-summer event is dedicated to short movies in the Parc de la Butte du Chapeau Rouge (19th arrondissement).

from 01 September – La fête au Bois du Boulogne

What’s better for making the end of summer vacation less depressing? Right, a fun fair! At the Fête á Neu-Neu , as this one was formerly, you can enjoy Merry-go-rounds, trampolines, food trucks, and of course, a Ferris wheel.

13 to 15 September – Fête de l’Humanité

La Fête de l’Humanité is one of the festivals with the longest traditions, since 1930. Organized to found the newspaper L’Humanité it breaks visitor records each year. It’s concerts (I saw Joan Baez there in 2011, and it was magical), political discussions, exhibitions and much more.

Sirha Omnivore Food Festival (Dates to be confirmed)

If you are a foodie, note this weekend in your calendar. It is the first big food festival of the year (well, considering the year in France starts with the rentrée) and takes place in the Parc Floral de Paris .

You have the chance to sample food from some of the best young chefs in the world, attend masterclasses, and much more.

22 September – Car Free Sunday

The annual car-free day is on the 22nd of September, and the monthly is on the 1st.

21 and 22September – European Heritage Days

This weekend, you get to enjoy more than 300 Parisian museums, landmarks, and historic monuments for free! See the full program here .

September – Techno Parade Paris (Dates to be confirmed)

After 2 years, the Techno Parade Paris is back! Check here for information such as itineraries, DJs, and more.

From 23. September – Fashion Week

The Paris Fashion Week is back! Until the 1st of October , you have the chance to see the latest trends for the coming season.

29 September – Paris Versailles Half Marathon

Voilà, Paris in September. It’s overall a great month to visit Paris. Plenty of events, expositions and mostly lovely weather are granting you a wonderful stay. Enjoy et bon voyage!

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PS: Check out these posts, they will help you plan your trip to Paris

• 20 Arrondissements in Paris (Quick Guide + Map)
• Paris hidden gems: 80+ well kept secrets you shouldn’t miss
• 14 Hotels with stunning Eiffel Tower views- for (almost) every budget!
• Your Perfect 2 Days in Paris! Itinerary & Insider Tips
• 5 ways to get from Charles de Gaulle airport to Paris – THE complete guide!
• Scams in Paris! How to avoid the most common cons

FAQ Paris in September

Is September a good time to visit Paris?

Yes, it is a good time to visit. You can expect pleasant temperatures and sunny days. But it is also high season and hotels and attractions are in high demand.

Is Paris crowded in September?

In September, school vacations are over and Parisians are back in town. Hence, the traffic is back to normal after the summer break. You also have many tourists in Paris. Overall, September is not as crowded as in July or August, but it is still high season, and you have to expect queues.

What is happening in Paris in September?

September is the month when Parisians get back to Paris and the new (school) year starts. There are many events in Paris in September:

• 31.8 – 11.9 – Jazz à la Villette
• 9.9 – 12.9 – Fête de l’Humanité
• 17.9 – 18.9 European Heritage Days
• 10.9 – 12.9 – Omnivore Food Festival
• 24.9 – Techno Parade Paris

How should I dress in Paris in September?

September is usually still pleasant, and the sun is warm enough to be out in a T-shirt. But pack a light jacket and a sweater.

If you have further questions or need some help, click the link to join the free Salut from Paris community on Facebook! 

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Best Things to Do in Paris in September: Events + Travel Guide

Visiting Paris in September is a fantastic idea. This time of the year is an incredible moment when the city comes alive with a mix of events, culture, and the return from vacations.

From art exhibitions and fashion shows to outdoor festivals, you will enjoy the magic of Paris.

What Is the Weather Like in Paris in September? 

The weather in Paris in September is quite pleasant, and it’s probably one of the best months to visit the city, following the spring, which is my favorite time of the year.

During this period, you’ll encounter enjoyable temperatures and a mix of sun and occasional drizzles.

It’s the perfect balance that creates a refreshing atmosphere for your trip. Just imagine strolling along the picturesque Parisian streets, feeling the warmth on your skin and the light drizzles, adding a touch of romance to the city.

Moreover, photos with the wet cobblestones look really cool. Just be sure to wear shoes that won’t slip !

Do not forget to buy travel insurance when you plan your trips. Hopefully, you don’t need to use it, but it is better to be prepared for any eventuality or emergency. We use Heymondo Insurance, with worldwide medical assistance and coverage of $ 10,000,000 and more coverage.

Is Paris Warm in September?

The weather in Paris in September brings a touch of warmth and comfort, with average high temperatures ranging from 20 to 23 degrees Celsius (68 to 73 degrees Fahrenheit).

Mornings and evenings can be a bit cooler, with averages around 12 to 15 degrees Celsius (54 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit).

With such mild and pleasant temperatures, it’s the perfect month to explore the streets, enjoy outdoor cafes, and immerse yourself in the charm of Paris.

Outfit Planner

EXTRA TIP : plan what you will wear in advance so you take everything you need and do not have to make extra expenses at the destination. You can download the PDF here; the price is up to you!

Best Things to Do in Paris in September

In September, get ready to enjoy the charming Parisian atmosphere, cultural events, and hidden gems that make this month truly special.

Seine River Cruises

One of the most relaxing things to do in Paris is to embark on a Seine River dinner cruise . Picture yourself gently gliding along the iconic Seine River, savoring a delectable meal as you admire the breathtaking views of the city’s landmarks.

In September, Paris provides the perfect backdrop for this enchanting experience. With mild weather and the city dressed in autumn colors, you can indulge in the romance of Paris while savoring a delicious dinner.

Take a look at Private or Shared Cruise on the Seine here.

Montmartre and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica

The neighborhood of Montmartre is one of the most picturesque areas in Paris. It boasts the famous Basilica of the Sacred Heart, its streets filled with artists, and a little further, the Moulin Rouge.

But if you visit at the end of September, you might be lucky enough to enjoy the Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival.

Yes! This hill used to have many vineyards in the past, and now only a small one remains, but the neighborhood comes alive with color during this festival.

The exact dates may vary, but it usually takes place either at the end of September or the beginning of October.

Indeed, the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur is truly impressive. Completed in 1914, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its location atop the hill.

As you wander through the cobblestone lanes filled with charming cafes , lively art studios, and a rich history that has inspired artists like Pablo Picasso and Vincent van Gogh.

September is the perfect time to explore Montmartre and the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur as the weather is not too hot, making it ideal for enjoying the outdoors and strolling through this picturesque neighborhood.

The comfortable temperatures create a delightful atmosphere for wandering around the charming streets and taking in the beauty of the area, including the stunning views from the Basilica’s elevated position.

Père Lachaise Cemetery

When visiting Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris, you’ll step into a place steeped in history. Established in 1804 , this iconic cemetery is the final resting place of many notable individuals.

From literary figures like Oscar Wilde and Marcel Proust to renowned musicians like Frédéric Chopin and Jim Morrison , Père Lachaise Cemetery is a sanctuary where the legacies of great minds and talents endure.

As you stroll through the cobblestone paths, take a moment to appreciate the rich history and artistic beauty that surrounds you.

So, put on your comfortable walking shoes and immerse yourself in the stories of the past at Père Lachaise Cemetery, all while enjoying the pleasant September weather in Paris.

Take a look at Pere Lachaise Cemetery Guided Tour here.

Palace of Versailles

When it comes to grandeur and opulence, the Palace of Versailles is a world-renowned museum that leaves visitors in awe. As you step into this magnificent museum, you’ll be transported back in time to an era of lavishness and extravagance.

The Palace of Versailles, also known as the Versailles Palace, is a true testament to the grandeur of French royalty. From the ornate Hall of Mirrors to the meticulously manicured gardens , every corner of this palace museum exudes splendor and beauty.

You can book entry tickets here .

While spring is often considered the best time to visit the palace, don’t miss the opportunity to go in autumn as well. The colors of the trees during the fall season add a special touch to the gardens, creating a beautiful and picturesque setting around the palace.

The autumn foliage can turn the surroundings into a mesmerizing sight, making it a worthwhile experience for you during this time of the year. Whether in spring or autumn, the palace and its gardens offer unique and enchanting experiences throughout the year.

Exploring the Palace of Versailles from Paris allows you to delve into history and witness firsthand the architectural wonders and artistic treasures that make it one of the most famous iconic landmarks in the world.

The opulence and grandeur of Versailles were symbolic of the power and wealth of the French monarchy.

However, the extravagance and the vast disparities between royalty and the common people contributed to growing tensions and dissatisfaction among the French population.

Ultimately, these factors played a significant role in the events leading to the French Revolution, which ultimately led to the downfall of the French monarchy.

Visiting Versailles provides not only an appreciation of its beauty but also a glimpse into the historical context that shaped the course of France’s history.

Here are some of our favorite Palace of Versailles day trips:

• Versailles: Skip-the-Line Tour of Palace with Gardens Access
• Palace of Versailles & Gardens w/ Transportation
• Skip-the-Line Palace of Versailles Bike Tour

Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral is a true icon of Paris in September. Constructed in the 12th century , this majestic masterpiece showcases stunning Gothic architecture and intricate details.

Throughout history, it has witnessed significant events, including Napoleon Bonaparte’s coronation in 1804 and inspiring Victor Hugo’s “The Hunchback of Notre Dame.”

The cathedral’s crypt houses archaeological remains and artifacts , allowing you to delve into its rich history.

Paris in September provides the perfect backdrop to visit Notre Dame. With mild weather and an enchanting autumn ambiance, you can explore the cathedral’s underground chambers, connecting with its past.

The cathedral is still closed to the public due to the fire, but each day brings us closer to being able to visit it again. On the outside, you can take photos without any problem; they look really cool from the bridge.

Eiffel Tower

When visiting Paris, one landmark that you simply cannot miss is the iconic Eiffel Tower. As one of the most recognizable structures in the world, it offers breathtaking views and an unforgettable experience.

In September, visiting the Eiffel Tower becomes even more magical. As you ascend the tower, you’ll be greeted by panoramic views of Paris , showcasing its beauty from a unique perspective.

Whether you choose to take a guided tour or simply admire its grandeur from the ground, the Eiffel Tower is a must-see attraction that will leave you in awe.

So, embrace the charm of Paris in September and embark on a journey to the top of the Eiffel Tower , creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

This historic district, known for its artistic and intellectual legacy, has been a gathering place for renowned figures like Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir .

In September, as the summer crowds disperse and the weather remains pleasant , Saint-Germain-des-Prés becomes even more enchanting.

From the Saint-Germain-des-Prés Church , which dates back to the 11th century , to the charming squares like Place Furstenberg, you’ll be immersed in history and beauty.

If you’re looking for a must-do in Paris in September , Saint-Germain-des-Prés is the perfect destination. Let the captivating history and enchanting atmosphere of this neighborhood make your trip to Paris truly unforgettable in a guided tour .

Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum is a must-visit when you’re in Paris, no matter the season! As one of the most famous museums in the world, it offers an incredible collection spanning centuries of art and history.

As you step inside the Louvre , you’ll be transported back in time, surrounded by masterpieces from renowned artists like Leonardo da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa” and the ancient Greek statue of “Venus de Milo.”

With the Paris Museum Pass , you can enjoy skip-the-line ticket access and explore the Louvre Museum and many other attractions in the city. It’s the perfect way to make the most of your time and see everything that Paris has to offer.

• Read next: Discover the Essential Works Of the Louvre Museum

Gardens in Paris in September

Jardin du Luxembourg and Parc des Buttes-Chaumont are two must-visit destinations for nature lovers. These enchanting gardens offer a tranquil escape from the bustling city.

Jardin du Luxembourg, established in 1612 , is a true oasis in the heart of Paris . Stroll along the tree-lined pathways with an audio tour , marvel at the beautiful flowerbeds, and relax by the picturesque Medici Fountain .

It’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a peaceful moment.

Parc des Buttes Chaumont, dating back to 1867 , is a Paris hidden gem with its lush greenery and stunning landscapes. Take a leisurely walk around the lake, climb to the top of the Belvedere for panoramic views , and discover the enchanting Temple de la Sibylle perched on a rocky island.

In September, these gardens of Paris offer an ideal setting with pleasant weather and fewer crowds . It’s the perfect time to embrace the serene ambiance, soak up the beauty of nature, and create cherished memories.

Champs-Élysées

This famous avenue has been a symbol of elegance and grandeur since it was first established in the 17th century . As you walk along the wide boulevard, you’ll be following in the footsteps of historical figures like Napoleon Bonaparte and Charles de Gaulle.

In September, the Champs-Élysées take on a special charm. The avenue is adorned with colorful autumn leaves , creating a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll . You can explore the luxury shops and indulge in delectable pastries at charming cafes.

Vaux-Le-Vicomte: Evenings by Candlelight

We’re going to finish off this romantic Paris-in-winter date idea with a recommendation for a one-of-a-kind candlelight dinner in a 17th-century French castle .

Picture you and your partner in a low-lit ambiance, sharing the best full-course meal while conversing with each other intimately.

Talk about a perfect romantic night. There’s no doubting the food as it comes from the renowned chefs at Les Charmilles restaurant.

The package also includes a castle tour, including the chateau, gardens, and carriage museum. They will close the night with fireworks to make it even more special.

This package is available every Saturday from May 14th to October 1st, 2022.

Events in Paris in September

The pleasant Paris September weather hosted renowned events for centuries. Let me guide you through this enchanting month filled with memorable experiences.

From art exhibitions and fashion shows to live performances, the city comes alive with an array of exciting happenings in Paris events in September.

Paris Design Week

During the month of September, Paris becomes a global hub for creativity and design as it hosts Paris Design Week .

This annual event , taking place from September 8th to 16th , showcases the latest trends and innovations in design, attracting designers, artists, and design enthusiasts from around the world.

You’ll encounter a plethora of exhibitions, installations, and workshops that celebrate the power of design. From renowned design studios to emerging talents, Paris Design Week offers a diverse range of experiences that ignite inspiration and spark creativity.

Whether you’re a design enthusiast, a professional, or simply curious about the world of design, Paris in September is the perfect time to experience the exciting energy and innovation of Paris Design Week.

• Related read: Best Fashion Museums in Paris

European Heritage Days Paris

Paris, in late September, celebrates its rich history and cultural heritage during the annual European Heritage Days . This extraordinary event, held on September 17th and 18th , offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s most iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and historical sites.

From grand palaces to charming museums, you can step back in time and witness the stories that have shaped Paris throughout the centuries.

If you travel to Paris during the European Heritage Days, you’ll have the opportunity to visit many places for free. During these special days, numerous cultural sites and museums open their doors to the public without charging admission fees.

However, in some cases, they may require advance reservations to manage the influx of visitors. To secure your spot, you can visit the website of the museum or activity that interests you and make a free reservation.

It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore and experience the rich cultural heritage of Paris and its surrounding areas.

Music Events in Paris in September

From the soulful melodies of Jazz à la Villette (September 1-13) to the electrifying beats of Techno Parade (September 18) , there’s something for every music lover.

Immerse yourself in the captivating sounds and rhythms that fill the air as renowned artists take the stage at iconic venues like Palais Garnier and Philharmonie de Paris .

Capture the spirit of these unforgettable moments with your camera as the music intertwines with the art of photography.

Sports Events in Paris in September

Paris comes alive with thrilling sports events, and one of the highlights is the Paris-Versailles Run . Lace up your running shoes and join thousands of participants in this iconic race, which has been a celebrated tradition since 1978.

The Paris-Versailles Run takes you on a scenic 16-kilometer journey from the Eiffel Tower in Paris to the historic Palace of Versailles . Experience the exhilaration of running through the picturesque streets, surrounded by the beauty of the city and its landmarks.

Feel the adrenaline rush as you push yourself to achieve your personal best . Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a first-time participant, this event offers an unforgettable experience that combines athleticism and the rich history of Paris.

How to Go to Paris in September?

If you’re traveling from abroad, you can easily book a flight to one of the city’s international airports, such as Charles de Gaulle Airport or Orly Airport . From there, you have various transportation choices to reach the heart of Paris.

Getting Around Paris in September?

When getting around in Paris, you have several transportation options available:

• Taxi : You can easily find taxis throughout the city, and they provide a convenient door-to-door service.
• Ride-sharing services : Popular ride-sharing apps like Uber are also available in Paris, providing an alternative to traditional taxis.
• Public transportation : Paris has an efficient and comfortable public transportation system, including trains (RER and Metro) and buses. The Metro is a particularly popular and convenient way to travel within the city.

Using public transportation in Paris is a great way to explore the city and its many attractions, as it’s well-connected and relatively affordable. It’s also a sustainable option that helps reduce congestion and pollution in the city.

Another option is to travel by train if you’re coming from within Europe, as Paris is well-connected to major cities by rail.

What to Eat in Paris in September?

Make sure to indulge in some iconic French cuisines. Start your day with a buttery croissant or a pain au chocolat from a local bakery. For lunch , you can try a classic French bistro dish like coq au vin or steak frites .

As the weather starts to cool down in September, warm up with a bowl of comforting French onion soup .

And, of course, no trip to Paris is complete without savoring some delectable pastries. Indulge in a macaron from Ladurée or an éclair from a local boulangerie .

Don’t forget to pair your meals with a glass of French wine or a refreshing café au lait. Whether you’re dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant or enjoying a casual street crepe , the culinary scene in Paris will leave you craving for more.

• Read next: Where To Eat In Paris On A Budget

Where to Stay in Paris in September?

Luxury : Hôtel Plaza Athénée is the epitome of luxury, situated on Avenue Montaigne. With lavish rooms and top-notch amenities, including Michelin-starred restaurants and a spa, it offers an unforgettable experience. Prices start at €800 per night.

Mid-Range : Hotel Le Walt Paris in the prestigious 7th arrondissement is a 4-star boutique hotel. Its stylish rooms, inspired by Gustave Klimt, provide modern comforts. Prices start at €180 per night.

Affordable : Timhotel Tour Eiffel is a budget-friendly choice near the Eiffel Tower. Its 3-star accommodations offer essential amenities and a convenient location. Prices start at €80 per night.

• Read next: Best Places to Stay Overlooking the Eiffel Tower of Paris

Frequently Asked Questions about Paris in September

Is paris busy in september.

Paris in September can be quite busy, with tourists and locals alike enjoying the pleasant weather and various events happening throughout the city.

Is There Paris Fashion Week in September?

Yes, September is the month when Paris Fashion Week takes place, showcasing the latest trends and attracting fashion enthusiasts from around the world.

Can You Wear White in Paris in September?

Absolutely! White is a versatile color that can be worn in Paris in September. It’s a great way to add a touch of elegance to your outfits while exploring the city.

• Read next: What to Wear in Paris for Men

Is September a Good Time to Visit Paris?

September is an excellent time to visit Paris. The weather is usually mild, and the city is less crowded compared to peak tourist season. You can enjoy the attractions and experience the Parisian charm more relaxedly.

Is Paris Better in September or October?

Both September and October have their unique charms in Paris. September offers pleasant weather and various events, while October brings beautiful fall foliage. It ultimately depends on your preferences and what you’d like to experience in the city.

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• Explore the Beauty of Sainte Chapelle in Paris
• 3-Day Itinerary in Paris: a Complete Guide
• Visit Montparnasse Tower
• Visiting the Grand Mosque of Paris
• How Many Days Do You Need to Visit Paris
• Visit the Catacombs of Paris
• Cities near Paris to Visit in a 1-Day Trip

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Hi there! I’m Vero! I’ve always loved traveling! I have been living in France since 2018. And traveling around this awesome country. I love road trips and traveling by van, and also, some comfy getaways :) Check out: Touristear.com

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The Ultimate Packing List for France in September

September 11, 2023 by annie diamond 22 Comments

I’m in France for three weeks, and this is mostly what I packed. This is an updated post, and I’m wearing almost the same as what I wore last year at the same time. I made a few swaps for some newer pieces from Eileen Fisher.

cardigan // slip skirt // tank // short sleeve shirt // Birkenstocks // midi skirt // round mini shoulder bag // Adidas Sambas // white T-shirt // ’90s straight jeans // bandana // Kule stripe T-shirt // ’90s straight black jeans // Gucci Brixton Loafers // classic white shirt // Black leather tote // leather Apple watch band

France in September

I created my ultimate packing list for France in September when the seasons will change from summer to fall while we are traveling.

We will spend time in Paris, Provence, and the coast to make things even more complicated than the seasons changing.

I did not buy anything new for the trip!

I’m wearing this pair of  black pants  I bought at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale last year. Nordstrom still has them because they are the best pair of black pants! Don’t let the name of these trousers potentially turn you off. They are called the New York Irving Skinny Stretch Wool Pants. I feel like the name sounds like a fancy pair of leggings. They are not at all that! They are very flattering pants that could be dressed up or down. I know these will be my go-to pants for years to come! When I find something like this, I wear the heck out of it and take it on every trip!

Here’s why I didn’t purchase anything new

I think my packing list could be considered a capsule wardrobe.

I wanted to keep my packing list to a minimum, so taking something new is risky. What if I decide I don’t like it? Or worse, what if I see a photo of me wearing it, and it’s terribly unflattering? That’s why I stick to the basics and will be an  outfit repeater …over and over on this trip!

stripe T-shirt // Niel pants // Birkenstocks // stripe button-down shirt // midi skirt // Adidas Sambas // crew neck cardigan // Birkenstocks // round mini shoulder bag // leather Apple watch band // short sleeve shirt // ’90s straight jeans // Gucci Brixton loafers

Denim, stripes, olive, and black work with everything in my closet and in my luggage

I really stuck to the basics for packing for this ultimate packing list for a month in france..

Almost every item in my suitcase can be worn together. A lot of black, white, denim, and stripes. This year, I added some brown pieces. Everyone has been saying that  brown is the new black , and I love it! 

Cardigan Sweater from Eileen Fisher // Midi Skirt and top from Eileen Fisher // Adidas Sambas // Gucci Brixton Loafers // Round Mini Shoulder Bag from Uniqlo // T-shirt from Rag & Bone

The 90s straight Jean from Madewell // The Classic White Shirt from Crimson // Checked Camp shirt from Eileen Fisher

I have blue and black denim jeans, a nice pair of trousers, and my go-to pants from Alex Mill . I am also wearing a pair of  black Lululemon pants  on the plane that I could wear for a yoga class or a hike. They are sold out at the moment, but I also like these from Athleta.

The  midi black skirt can be worn with flats, Birkenstocks , or sneakers.

Black, white, and gray t-shirts .  This striped shirt  that’s great with everything and can be layered over a t-shirt. One  white shirt  and  one blouse.  

I love  these T-shirts  in black, gray, and black and white stripes from Lululemon for workouts and travel. They can easily be hand-washed in a bathroom sink and hung to dry.

Cardigan sweater and black leather tote from Quince // Black long sleeve T-shirt

A  jean jacket  since it’s great with everything. I’m also bringing this  denim shirt/jacket  and this sweater blazer from Quince.

I am bringing only one sweater. A cardigan that I can wear as a layer with a blouse, T-shirt with jeans, or wool pants. A cardigan is a great classic piece that can be worn a little more dressed up or under a jean jacket with a graphic T-shirt for a day of flea markets.

I know we will be doing a ton of walking, so I am only bringing shoes with that in mind. I’ll wear  sneakers ,  Birkenstocks  and  Gucci loafers  with the skirt, trousers, and jeans.

The only items I always buy new for a big trip are bras! There’s something fabulous about how a new bra makes you feel. I only bring two, a nude and a black bra. These are my favorite bras. 

Accessories

• a black and white silk bandana
• a  mini umbrella
• a few bracelets and a necklace with charms (I shared on my Instagram the charms I chose to wear while I’m away from my kids).

We will spend a lot of time at the pool and on day trips to the coast. This  cotton-linen beach shirt  from  J.Crew  is perfect over a bathing suit. I love it because it’s not at all sheer; it’s long sleeve. (I can always roll them up), And you don’t necessarily feel like you are wearing a coverup.

1. My Luggage

I love this  Briggs & Riley bag  for many reasons. I’ve had bags with an expansion feature, but they never really amounted to much extra space. This bag has a one-touch expansion feature. You press a button and pull up the sides to easily expand the size of the bag. Then it compresses, so you can still fit it in the overhead as a carry-on. 

I also just started using these travel compression bags that I learned about from Samantha Brown. I try not to use them when I start travel, but instead on the return.

Round Mini Shoulder Bag from Uniqlo

This is the perfect unisex lightweight crossbody bag. It’s great for keeping your passport, money, and anything else you need. It’s roomy enough to keep a lip balm, a little makeup, and even a travel toothbrush/toothpaste. The Uniqlo bags come in several neutral colors.  Wearing it in a color like this makes it feel a little less like a tourist than wearing a basic black bag.  But that’s just me!  Currently on sale for $9.90!

2.  Travel Packing Cubes  and Shoe Bags

I use the shoe bags that come with shoes and always save them to use with sneakers and shoes that don’t have them. These waterproof shoe bags would be nice to have, though.

Packing Cubes

I have been using these for years. I love how it keeps everything organized for both long and short trips. Some people use a cube for every outfit, but since everything I pack can be worn with every item, I sort by tops and bottoms. Travel cubes often come as a set. I use the smallest one to keep chargers organized using these  twist ties.

3. Comrad Compression Socks  are always on my ultimate packing list for any travel

I’ve talked about these socks before. Comrad Compression Socks are the best. I wear knee socks for travel and cotton ankle compression socks every day. They make a difference in how my legs and feet feel after a day of wearing them! You can click  here  and save 25%!

4. Toiletries

Lumify eye drops.

If you haven’t tried  Lumify eye drops , do not wait to try them just for travel. I use them almost every day, but especially when I travel. Just one drop and no red or bloodshot eyes! Genuinely amazing, in my opinion.

While I intended to visit a few pharmacies in Paris to stock up on my favorite things, one item I’ll be sure to pack is sunscreen. We La Roche-Posay , and it’s available on Amazon.

Shampoo & Conditioner

I find that even luxury hotels don’t seem to have hair conditioners. So, I always pack my own  shampoo ,   conditioner , and  soap. I love this brand , and they have travel sizes that you can refill when you get home with these. Hot tip: If you search travel size, you can buy the refill, pump bottle, and travel size, and it’s less expensive when you bundle. I do it every order, give them to my kids, and keep them in the guest bathrooms.

Reusable Water Bottle

We always bring reusable water bottles . I love how airports and many public places have water-filling stations. I can’t remember if they have as many in Europe, but more and more places have them here, which obviously reduces single-use water bottles. 

Reader Interactions

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September 4, 2022 at 9:45 am

Thanks for this. I just ordered a new piece of luggage and have decided I need to pare down when packing for a trip. Have a wonderful, memory-filled getaway you will enjoy! Karen B.

September 4, 2022 at 9:06 pm

Hi Karen, a few years ago my luggage was lost, and I had to buy everything! I bought a pair of linen pants, shorts, 2 linen shirts, and a swimsuit and wore my son’s t-shirts. And somehow, I managed…it made me realize I need far less than I think I do! xx

September 4, 2022 at 10:15 am

Enjoy every minute!

September 4, 2022 at 9:03 pm

Thank you, Elizabeth! I wish you were going too!

September 4, 2022 at 11:17 am

As lovely and stylish these fashions are-these items would cost a nearly a years wages for most people. A good template for looking for affordable copies perhaps.

September 4, 2022 at 9:02 pm

Hi Sandy! I only have a few expensive items, and except for the new pants, I have worn them for years, and I mean years. I do like to buy things that will last for many years. I mix it with GAP and Old Navy, but then I notice those pieces only last a few seasons. What I’m bringing is basically my entire closet! haha

September 4, 2022 at 11:29 am

BRILLIANT PACKING LIST! You look so chic. Everyone will think you are French. Especially with the striped shirt. I use the eye drops every day too.

Bon voyage!!!

September 4, 2022 at 12:03 pm

I really enjoyed reading with all the ideas for packing for my next Viking trip this coming May to France to visit the wineries with my girlfriend. I usually pack too many clothes, love the two color styling combo’s, sure makes it much simpler. My question is about the Lily Maxi skirt in black, now only XS is available, what size do you have and could I get by with the XS, I wear usually size 6, 29 inch waist and hips 39. Would really appreciate your input before it sells out. Thank you, Debbie

September 4, 2022 at 9:00 pm

Hi Debbie! I think you could wear an XS. Let me ask Cindy her opinion, she has several and told me what to buy! They are at a good price right now!!

September 4, 2022 at 9:54 pm

Debbie! We think yes, a size xs. Mine is medium size, and I’m usually a size 10 and 30 in jeans.

September 4, 2022 at 1:17 pm

I see the black pants are “dry clean only.” Will you be laundering or dry cleaning them during your travels?

September 4, 2022 at 9:53 pm

That’s a good question! I rarely dry clean anything, but I may with these pants since they were so expensive. I will probably wear them several times between cleanings, though.

September 4, 2022 at 3:51 pm

Annie so excited for you and to follow along. I am saving this and all your tips for when I get to go! Love the travels looks! Yay you I hope it’s wonderful. xo

September 4, 2022 at 9:11 pm

Thank you, Kim! Have a very happy birthday this week! Where are you going? You always seem to take a trip for celebrations! xx

September 4, 2022 at 8:39 pm

Annie … you’re going to look amazing in France … and very French. I wish I had your packing discipline. I do love packing cubes. Have so much fun … I’m excited to follow along. Ou la la! xo

September 4, 2022 at 9:10 pm

Thanks, Juliet! Something tells me you are an excellent packer! You always look stunning and perfect for the occasion! xx

September 4, 2022 at 10:09 pm

I love France and have been to all of the places you are traveling to! I hope that you have an amazing time. My favorite time to travel to Europe is in the Fall and Winter, less crowds and the weather is beautiful. Your wardrobe is perfect and I have bookmarked your tips for my next trip. I cannot wait to see and hear more of your adventures.

September 13, 2022 at 3:43 pm

I really enjoy your blog. I love the CP Shades Lily skirts – yet, I have learned there are two types – linen (unlined – except for the white version) and cotton/silk blend which are lined. The black skirt you are showing right now – is it linen or the cotton/silk blend? If it is the linen, do you find it see-through? They are on sale now so I’m debating. Thanks.

September 15, 2022 at 2:57 am

Hi PJ, mine is unlined, and I don’t find it to be see-through at all…thank goodness or I would have to wear some sort of slip, and those are hard to find these days! The one that I have looks like it’s marked down 50%! Cindy Hattersley wears them all the time. Have you checked out her blog? She’s the expert on CP Shades!

September 15, 2022 at 3:14 pm

Yes, I emailed Cindy as well. When I recently ordered the skirt (on sale!), I got as far as the payment section and then I got a message that said out of stock. So I ordered another color that was available, and the same thing happened. Frustrating! I ended up buying one on poshmark (linen, black, unlined, not worn). Looks great. Thanks for the post and response!!

September 13, 2023 at 12:01 am

Love your packing list, Annie … tres chic! Have the best time! xo

September 14, 2023 at 2:20 pm

Wow! So many great ideas! You introduced me to those bags and I am a fan. Love everything Eileen Fisher timeless!

Stay Updated

Brandy Travel Planner

Where to go in France in September? 10 Best Places to Visit for 2024 !

Are you wondering where to go in France in September? We have researched among hundreds of destinations in France for the best places to go this fall . Do you want to discover high altitude lakes, small perched villages or swim in translucent water ?

In France, you will find a diversity of extraordinary landscapes and vibrant cities that are great to visit in September. In addition, some cities host special events during this time of the year like in Lille you will find one of the biggest flea markets in Europe! Ready to discover this beautiful country ? Let’s get started!

Where to go in France in September?

1. mercantour national park.

Are you looking for adventure and majestic landscapes? Then why not go hiking in Mercantour National Park this fall? This French national park is located in the north of the Alpes-Maritimes department. Here you will find a variety of high altitude lakes, peaks at 3000 meters and insane panoramas.

During your hikes, you will have views of the Mediterranean Sea, as well as the mountains of the Alps which are not yet covered with snow. If you are looking for where to go in France in September for an outdoor adventure then this destination is sure to be the perfect place.

2. The Calanques of Marseille

In September, it is still sunny and warm in mainland France. So if you are looking to cool off in beautiful blue waters then we suggest visiting the Calanques of Marseille . These magnificent cliffs span from Cassis to Marseille and offer fine sandy beaches, small preserved coves and exceptional biodiversity.

This destination is ideal for those looking for where to go in the South of France in September. While in the area, you will have a variety of outdoor activities to choose from such as hiking, kayaking and even paddle boarding . Lastly, if you love scuba diving then this is a great place to explore the diverse sea life of the area.

September is one of the best months of the year to discover Lyon. The stifling heat of summer has passed and it is not yet cold. This means that you will be able to discover this amazing city in optimal weather conditions. With being the third largest city in France, there are many things to visit. An absolute must is a visit to old Lyon, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you explore the small cobble stone streets you are sure to see the large cathedral, unique museums, and of course traditional restaurants called “bouchons”.

In case you didn’t know Lyon is the capital of the world for French cuisine . On the menu, you will find Lyonnaise dumplings, brioche sausage or sapper apron; just to name a few. For a sweet treat, you should go for a walk in the Halles Paul Bocuse to try the famous praline tart . So, if you are looking for the best place in France in September for delicious food then look no further than Lyon! 

The city has lots of incredible monuments to discover such as the Fourvière basilica which dominates the city. From here you will have a panorama of the whole city of Lyon . If you are looking to relax then we suggest taking a trip to the Parc de la Tête d’Or which is home to more than 117 hectares of nature!

Are you looking for where to go in France in September for sunshine? Then pack your bags and head to Corsica ! This French island is known for its mountains, unspoiled nature and vast soft sandy beaches. To swim in crystal clear waters we suggest going to the Agriates desert in the north of the island where you will find the beaches of Saleccia and Lotu. Considered some of the most beautiful in Europe you can enjoy the picturesque landscapes in September without hordes of tourists since the summer holidays are over.

Lastly, if you like hiking then Corsica is also a great destination for you! The more adventurous among you can explore sections of the GR20 trail which will give you 360°C panoramas over the Mediterranean Sea, as well as take you to waterfalls and wild rivers.

5. Disneyland

Are you looking for the best place in France in September to visit with the family ? Then the magical atmosphere of Disneyland is sure to delight children and adults of all ages. This incredible amusement park is located in the suburbs of Paris and is the most visited destinations in Europe.

In September, tourist numbers are reasonable which means you can enjoy the attractions without waiting in long lines. In addition, the weather in Paris is great during this time of year with temperatures around 20°C. This means that you will be able to take pictures with the Disney characters and attend the evening parade without having to worry about being cold.

6. The Vosges

If you are looking for beautiful landscapes in the colors of autumn then head to the Vosges region. Towards the end of September, the trees begin to change from green to orange, yellow and red hues . In this region, you will find many beautiful hikes that take you to various lakes and waterfalls.

A must-see while in the area is the large Tendon waterfall located between Tholy and Tendon. If you want to be transported to North America, you can visit the viewpoint that overlooks the Lac des Corbeaux which is surrounded by fir trees.

The Côte d’Azur is absolutely where to go in the South of France in September for the sun! In this region the blue sky is present more than 25 days out of the 30 of the month which means that you can discover all the wonders of this destination without worrying about the weather. We highly suggest discovering the capital of the French Riviera: Nice.

This French city has an important heritage and numerous activities that will please the whole family. History lovers can discover the archaeological site of Cimiez and its arena which dates to the 3rd century. The foodies among you can try the local specialties of Socca, Pan Bagnat, Pissaladière and of course a Niçoise salad.

On a hot day, you can still go swimming on the pebble beaches of the Promenade des Anglais which is lined with luxury hotels such as the Negresco. To do a little shopping, you can wander the colorful streets of old Nice where you will find various artisan shops and markets. Lastly, you should climb to castle hill park for a breathtaking view of the entire Baie des Anges all the way to Cap d’Antibes.

Best Places to go in France in September

8. the pyrenees-orientales.

Between land and sea, the Pyrénées-Orientales is one of the best places to go in France in September. Along the entire coast, you will find seaside resorts such as Port Barcarès, Saint-Cyprien and Canet-en-Roussillon. In these resorts, you can enjoy large expanses of soft sand, a warm sea , a variety of fish restaurants and even nightclubs where you can dance all night. In September, there are fewer tourists compared to the summer months which means that accommodation prices are much more affordable. 

Apart from coastal resorts, this department also offers exceptional natural landscapes and quaint little villages for you to explore. We suggest visiting the charming village of Collioure and its castle, which is located in the center of town. You can stroll through the colorful alleys to discover this beautiful fortified city. During your stay in the Pyrénées-Orientales, you have to spend a day in Perpignan; the largest city in the department. Here you will find various monuments and learn about Catalan culture! 

One of the most anticipated events in France is the Lille flea market. Considered the largest flea market in Europe it attracts no less than two million visitors each year .

This event, which takes over the city center, usually takes place during the first weekend of September . On the small streets, you will find second-hand shops selling small antiques, records and books while on the main boulevards, you will discover various hand crafted works created by well-known artists!

During your stay, you should also take the opportunity to discover Lille and its majestic monuments such as the Vieille-Bourse or the Grande Place. We also suggest a visit to the Palace of Fine Arts which houses works by famous artists such as Rubens, Goya and Delacroix.

10. The Quaint Villages of the South

To complete our list of where to go in France in September, we suggest relaxing in one of the many perched villages of the south; there are hundreds to choose from! If you are staying in the Alpes-Maritimes region, then  you can explore the entirely walled city of Eze-sur-Mer . Y ou will love strolling through the cobbled streets of this village and discovering its incredible views of the Mediterranean. In the same department, you can explore Saint-Paul-de-Vence where there are local perfumeries and small shops of sculptors and painters.

If head to the Bouches-du-Rhône region, you can discover the sublime village of Les Baux-de-Provence. In this traditional village, you will find artisan shops where honey and lavender are sold. You should also consider exploring the ruins of a castle that dates back to the 6th century.

 France destinations in September

Now you know our list of where to go in France in September. To travel at the best price, we advise you to book your accommodation and means of transport as soon as possible, especially if you plan to visit the massive Lille flea market.

Lastly, if you are thinking about a trip to France in September then I can help. I am currently living in the South of France so I will be able to plan an itinerary like a local. Let me be your personal Travel Planner for your escape to this breathtaking European country.

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Explore the Riviera

Nice in september: a travel guide.

Trust me: there’s nothing quite like September in the South of France.

This is definitely my favorite month to enjoy Nice, where I live . The air is still warm and filled with the scent of summer, yet the streets begin to get calmer and the city becomes way more serene.

As a local, I’ve experienced the city through every season and can confidently say that September brings a special charm that’s quite distinct from the busy summer months.

In this guide, you will find everything you need to know about visiting the South of France in September.

Planning a trip to the South of France? Then make sure to follow my Instagram and join my Facebook group for the best tips, places, and hotels on the French Riviera. You can also get a custom itinerary made by me here or check out my travel guides for Nice, Monaco, Cannes, Antibes and Saint-Tropez.

What to expect

In September, Nice gracefully shifts from the bustling summer to a tranquil yet vibrant ambiance.

The weather is a delightful blend of warm, sunny days with temperatures ranging comfortably between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), and cooler evenings, perfect for leisurely strolls along the Promenade des Anglais or alfresco dining.

The city is less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of its charming streets, beaches, and attractions.

Outdoor activities are particularly enjoyable in this milder weather, whether it’s hiking in the surrounding hills or enjoying a sunset boat trip along the coast.

Additionally, with the peak season winding down, you might find better prices for accommodations and flights, making September a pleasant time to experience the unique atmosphere of Nice.

⛱️ Looking for the best places to eat, stay, and explore in Nice?

In my Nice Travel Guide , you will find all the best addresses, unique day trips, restaurants, hotels, and hidden gems in Nice. Planning your trip to the South of France has never been easier ❤️

Is September a good time to visit Nice?

Yes, September is a great time to visit Nice.

The weather is warm yet comfortable, the summer crowds have thinned, and the city retains its vibrant energy with cultural events and delicious seasonal cuisine. Plus, you may find better deals on accommodations and flights. It’s an ideal balance of pleasant weather and a relaxed atmosphere.

✈️ Coming to Nice soon? It’s time to book your tours

• From Nice: French Riviera in One Day
• Nice: Gorges of Verdon and Fields of Lavender Tour
• Nice: 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise to Villefranche Bay
• From Nice: Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud Day Tour
• Nice: Provence Village Tour with Wine and Produce Tasting

→ Check out the most popular French Riviera tours here

Where to stay

Hôtel La Pérouse

This luxurious sea-front hotel has been a favorite since 1936. With just 53 rooms and suites, it offers a tranquil experience. Guests can choose rooms facing the Mediterranean Sea or the garden, and enjoy amenities like a cocktail bar on a scenic terrace, a seasonal pool, a sauna, and a solarium​ ​.

Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel

A landmark in Nice, this hotel offers modern and elegant rooms with air conditioning, large TVs, and espresso machines. Located just a short walk from the Old Town and the Promenade des Anglais, it also features a spa, steam room, and a rooftop restaurant and bar​ ​.

Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée

This iconic Art Deco hotel offers modern rooms with sea or city views, two swimming pools, a sauna, and a steam room. Its location is ideal, being only a short distance from Old Town and other attractions​ ​.

Boscolo Nice Hôtel & Spa

Situated in the city center, this dazzling five-star property offers sophisticated rooms, a spa, an indoor pool, and a rooftop area. The hotel’s Italian restaurant and bar are perfect for enjoying local cuisine and drinks​ ​.

Le Meridien Nice

Located at the Promenade des Anglais, this hotel offers modern refinements and is a short walk from the beach. It’s ideal for those who prefer a more contemporary setting​ ​.

✈️ Need help planning your trip to the French Riviera?

Make the most out of your trip with a personalized itinerary made just for you or book a travel consultation where I will answer any questions you might have.

Things to do in Nice in September

Day trips around the riviera.

Explore the beauty of the French Riviera with day trips to nearby destinations such as Monaco, Cannes, Antibes, and the charming village of Eze.

If you are short on time, you can even take a tour like this one to be able to see everything.

Try the region’s specialties

Discover the flavors of Nice with a food tour , sampling local dishes and seasonal specialties, and learning about the regional cuisine and dishes such as socca and pissaladière.

Enjoy fantastic wine tastings

The grape harvest season is an excellent time for wine tours in the surrounding vineyards, offering a chance to taste and learn about local wines.

I recommend visiting Chateau de Cremat or booking one of these tours .

Boat Excursions

September is still a perfect time to get on a boat and experience the Mediterranean. These are some of my favorite boat tours from Nice.

Beach Relaxation

The climate remains ideal for enjoying the beaches and beach clubs , which are less crowded, offering a serene and enjoyable beach experience.

Explore the Old Town

The historic Vieux Nice is a must-visit, with its lively streets, charming shops, and rich cultural heritage, especially enjoyable in the milder September weather.

Take a perfume workshop

The South of France makes some of the best perfumes in the world. Engage in a perfume-making workshop , a unique activity that introduces the art of fragrance creation, a significant part of the region’s heritage.

Art and Museum Visits

Take in the cultural and historical richness of Nice’s museums, such as the Matisse Museum and the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art.

Walking along Promenade des Anglais

A relaxing walk along this famous seaside promenade is always a delightful experience.

Hiking in Mercantour National Park

Discover the diverse landscapes of Mercantour National Park, a haven for hikers looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Travel Guide & FAQ

Is nice still hot in september.

Yes, Nice is still relatively warm in September.

The city enjoys a Mediterranean climate, which means September days are generally warm and sunny, with average daytime temperatures ranging from about 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), but the evenings can be slightly cooler,

Is Nice rainy in September?

In September, Nice generally experiences mild and pleasant weather with a relatively low chance of rain.

This month is considered part of the region’s extended summer, so you can expect plenty of sunny days.

Can you swim in Nice France in September?

Yes, you can definitely swim in Nice, France, in September.

The Mediterranean Sea remains quite warm from the summer heat, making it a pleasant time for swimming and water activities. The average sea temperature in September usually ranges around 20°C to 24°C (68°F to 75°F), which is comfortable for most swimmers.

Conclusion: Visiting Nice in September

That’s a wrap! September is indeed a lovely time to visit Nice and I’m sure you will have the best time.

Oh! And if you are visiting the South of France soon, check out my travel guides , follow my Instagram and join my Facebook group for more hidden gems and travel tips. Happy travels!

Plan the perfect trip to the French Riviera

👗 Find all my favorite addresses in Nice on this travel guide.

📕 Get a personalized French Riviera itinerary here or check out my other travel planning services

🗺️ Book guided tours through Get Your Guide and Viator .

🛏️ Find the perfect hotel on Booking.com .

Continue reading:

• 15 Best Hotels in Nice, France for 2024
• 24 Best Boutique Hotels in Nice in 2024
• 9 Best Walking Tours in Nice, France [2024]
• 27 Best Things to Do in Nice, France
• 10 Best Wine Tours from Nice [2024]

8 Wonderful Reasons to Travel to France in Springtime

Inspiration

Eco-Durable Nature and Outdoor Activities Cities Spring

Reading time: 0 min Published on 25 March 2024, updated on 22 April 2024

If the return of spring makes your desire to travel blossom, come to France! This time of year is so beautiful. You can enjoy the gentle rays of sunshine on the terraces, stroll through parks and gardens in full bloom, and walk quietly along the seashore, in the mountains or in the countryside. Benefit from the longer days to experience great exhibitions and joyful festivals. An ideal time to engage all of your senses before the summer rush.

Enjoy the Beautiful Days without the Crowds

From Brittany to the French Riviera, from Normandy to the Basque Country, from the Bay of the Somme to Corsica, not to mention the creeks of Provence or the great Dune du Pilat in the Bay of Arcachon, France has bountiful options for a seaside getaway. From the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, small charming harbors, sandy beaches, and enchanting creeks punctuating the coastal landscapes. In the spring, you won't find a sea of beach umbrellas and towels blocking your view of the ocean. The scenery is all yours to enjoy during a stroll along a coastal trail sentier du littoral or a gourmet picnic, in complete privacy.

In the warmth of spring, even the bustle of French cities can be enjoyed with greater pleasure. On the main boulevards or along piers of the Seine in Paris, on the Old Port in Marseille, in the alleys and covered passages of the Old Lyon, and in all the cultural heritage sites, the air seems lighter and you can enjoy sightseeing at your own pace.

Like it was meant to be!

Experience Nature Come to Life

Does spring make your heart feel happy and restless at the same time? With 22,800 kilometers of cycling routes and greenways, 3,000 road and mountain bike paths, 11 national parks, 54 regional nature parks, and 180,000 kilometers of marked trails, France invites you to come for a ride!

The return of good weather and ideal temperatures for walking, cycling, riding, and sailing gives you a front-row seat to observe chamois and marmots in the Alps or Pyrenees. Count the sleeping volcanoes amongst the daffodil meadows in Auvergne, pick wild garlic in the Vosges or in the intoxicating blue wild hyacinth-scented undergrowth in Normandy, and sail through flowering locks on the beautiful canals of Alsace, Burgundy, and Brittany. Be one with nature and explore many peaceful and inspiring itineraries to gently awaken all your senses.

Savor Seasonal Products

Tender peas, tasty asparagus, new potatoes and carrots, fava beans, crisp radishes, and beautiful big salads. There's a spring party in the vegetable garden! Gone are the hearty winter dishes, long live the beautiful green markets with their abundant gourmet stalls. Place des Lices in Rennes in Brittany, the Wazemmes district in Lille in the Hauts-de-France, Sarlat in the Périgord, Cours Saleya in Nice or under the Halles de Narbonne in Occitanie.

In France, every region, city, and village has a taste for gastronomy and enjoys sharing recipes that are enhanced by local products. More and more chefs are incorporating a type of cuisine that respects farm-to-table sourcing of seasonal products . Did you say locavore ? Yes! And for the latest and greatest places to go, Fleur de Loire , Christophe Hay's starred restaurant, a stone's throw from the Chambord castle. It is home to a large permaculture vegetable garden with an incredible asparagus grove with 50 varieties. Spring explodes with flavor.

Foraging in parks and gardens in Paris and the surrounding area

Squares on almost every street corner, large elegant and romantic gardens, Bois de Boulogne and Bois de Vincennes; with more than 400 parks and gardens, Paris is the most wooded capital in Europe! In spring, it's a bloom of greenery and as many places for walks or bucolic breaks, between a shopping trip and a visit to a museum. If you have to choose? Between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde, the flowerbeds of the Jardin des Tuileries host each year the magnificent event "Jardin, Jardin" .

Spring is also the best season for a trip to Versailles where the Potager du Roi, just a stone's throw from the castle, can be discovered in its most beautiful vegetable and fruit gardens. Likewise, a spring excursion to Giverny , in Normandy, is the height of happiness. Claude Monet's gardens exult in colors and scents. And of course, the Loire Valley and its beautiful castles , from Chambord to Chenonceau, from Azay-le-Rideau to Villandry, they are an apotheosis as the art of gardens from April.

10 family walks in the green lungs around Paris

A breath of fresh air in the mountains

What if you tried the mountains in spring? For skiers, the snow is usually still there, with the assurance of optimal sunshine and long days. The resorts in the Alps, but also in the Pyrenees, the Vosges and the Jura take care of the festivities (concerts, exhibitions, gastronomy, farm outings, meetings with craftsmen and their know-how...), and also the prices, which become almost as mild as the temperatures in April and May.

For all, it is the occasion to linger on the terrace when the resorts are already taking on a little summer air. Everywhere you go, you can smell the fresh grass and the flowers ready to grow under the snow. There is no better season to take a deep breath of fresh air while winter and spring pass the baton between nature activities and alpine skiing. Some high-altitude resorts like Val Thorens are playing it safe by keeping their ski area open until the beginning of May.

Discover the spring activities offered by mountain resorts

Taking care of yourself

It's time to get out of the winter cocoon! To revive numb bodies and regain energy and vitality, France is an ideal wellness destination . Along its 2,000 kilometers of coastline, it combines spring with the ocean in some fifty thalassotherapy centers with state-of-the-art facilities. On the Atlantic coast, from Brittany to the Basque Country, the good weather invites you to head for Saint-Malo, Quiberon, La Baule, Pornic or Saint-Jean-de-Luz for fitness cures and treatments at lower prices than the rest of the year.

Do you prefer the cocoon spa of a charming hotel or a Palace? France has a wide range of beautiful addresses. In Paris alone, the Ritz Club &Spa Sense, A Rosewood Spa at the Hôtel de Crillon or the spas at the Mandarin Oriental , the Four Seasons George V or the Lutetia. A rebirth of body and mind that can also be enjoyed, in harmony with the first buds, at the Sources de Caudalie , in the vineyards near Bordeaux, or at altitude, in the Alps at Courchevel.

Extend the evenings on the terrace

Spring equinox on March 19, change from winter to summer time on the night of March 30 to 31, 2024. You don't need to be a specialist to understand that the days will get longer and even longer. An ideal time to enjoy what the French do so well and are so fond of: to settle down on the terraces of cafés, restaurants, bistros, in the streets, on the squares to welcome the first rays of sunshine and to linger while enjoying the mild spring evenings.

A good idea? Take a little height to feel the good vibrations of the return of beautiful days. In Paris and all over France, rooftops have flourished in recent years. Among the new star spots not to be missed this spring: the Sky bar of the new TOO Hotel at the top of the Duos Towers to have Paris at your feet or, on the roof of the Samaritaine, the well-named Tout Paris and its charming garden from which the view goes from Montmartre to the Eiffel Tower, passing by Notre-Dame and the Louvre colonnade.

Fill up on exhibitions and festivals

In France, culture is celebrated to the rhythm of the four seasons, but spring marks the great return of festivals with the aptly named "Printemps de Bourges" launching the festivities. We also "jazz" under the apple trees in Normandy and in Paris, "We Love Green" goes green in the Bois de Vincennes. On the Côte d'Azur, it's the cinema that takes all the light with the Cannes Film Festival, while on the exhibition side, spring promises exceptional encounters: "The Orientalists" at the Atelier des Lumières, "Robert Ryman" at the Musée de l'Orangerie, "Vertiges" at the Bourse de Commerce and "Paris 1874, inventing Impressionism" at the Musée d'Orsay to mark the 150th anniversary of Impressionism in 2024. We also take advantage of the mild temperatures for great sporting events: the mythical Paris Marathon or the French Tennis Open at Roland-Garros. What a way to crown spring with a beautiful energy!

• Our top French cities to stroll around in the summertime
• Our favorite routes for cycling in France

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Paris in mid September, when to book - Paris Forum

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Paris in mid September, when to book

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1. I am looking at non-stop fights on Air Tahiti or with a layover in Chicago or Dallas on American airlines. If someone traveled on Air Tahiti, please share your review. I already checked on the Air Travel forum.

2. When should I book for Sep and what travel insurance have you used for trip cancelation if the situation arises.

Thanks in advance.

15 replies to this topic

This post has been removed at the author's request.

You would want to be booking that trip ASAP/now. Many have already booked for that time of year several months ago already. Due to the Olympics being on in July and August many have either brought forward their annual trip or postponed it until after the Games to get better value. Hotel prices have tripled in price for the Games

sorry, i book my own. Dont use costco or even looked at prices or used Air Tahiti,.

you can also look at Flyertalk, if you want.

and some sites will have price notifications.

did you look at other airports such as SFO or ?

if you use a flight serach engine you can cherry pick things like airlines and connection airports.

as far as travel/trip insurance look at the various ones available to you.

some credit cards/banks will offer some type of insurance. If you want CAR - Cancel for Any Reason insurance, it will be pricey and the ones i looked at have a timebomb if you dont buy ASAP.

you can google for many things like travel/trip insurance too. Such as "insuremytrip" and see what you get or is offered to you.

This post was determined to be inappropriate by the Tripadvisor community and has been removed.

Yesterday ;)

For Sep. you should book last Nov.

Don't use middle man nor travel agent for anything- book yourself directly with airline , hotel, tours, sightseeing.

I don't get the comment about legroom on SWA, their legroom is no worse than any legacy airline in economy, in fact, it's better than some, like United. the pitch is 32-33 in economy on SWA. I thikn United is 31 and AF is about 32, also.

September is a busy period, I'd look to booking by June at least (for hotels). I think I didn't book airfare until later last year for September, but I was flyinig United business.

September 2024 will be a special year unlike previous or later Septembers, so I don't think that anybody can inform you accurately. And hotel and rental rates are changing every day right now because they are adjusting their Olympic prices from the initial greed to something more realistic. Nobody knows at what level they will stop.

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Is it safe to travel to France? The latest advice

T he French government has raised its terror alert to the highest possible level, “emergency”, following the terror attack in Moscow that left more than 135 people dead.

French prime minister Gabriel Attal said the decision was taken “in light of the Islamic State’s claiming responsibility for the [Moscow] attack and the threats weighing on our country”.

France’s terror threat system has three levels. The highest level is announced if there is a terrorist attack in France or overseas, or if an attack on French soil is considered to be imminent.

France was already on high alert for potential terrorist attacks, with the Paris Olympics and Paralympics due to take place in the capital this summer.

The updated terror alert comes just days before the UK Easter school holidays, when thousands of British holidaymakers will travel across the Channel for a getaway.

What is the Foreign Office advice for France?

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) France advice, which was last updated on February 20, reads: “There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.”

“Methods of attack have included knife attacks, shootings, bombings and vehicle attacks. Be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local French authorities,” the FCDO adds.

The FCDO lists shopping centres, entertainment establishments, cultural events, public transport and places of worship as settings where “indiscriminate” terrorism attacks could take place.

Check the France FCDO page for the latest advice.

What happened in the Moscow terror attack?

On Friday, terrorists carried out an attack at the Crocus City Hall on the outskirts of Moscow, killing at least 137 and injuring 140.

Four men, all of whom are citizens of Tajikistan, have been formally charged with committing a group terrorist attack. The attack has been claimed by the Afghanistan-based Islamic State Khorasan Province (IS-K) group.

On March 7, the United States warned its citizens in Russia that extremists had “imminent plans to target large gatherings in Moscow” and specifically mentioned concert venues. It advised Americans to avoid large gatherings.

What should I do if I get caught up in a terrorist attack?

Britain’s counter-terrorism police gives advice on what to do in the event of an emergency . This includes to run to a place of safety: “This is better than trying to surrender or negotiate.” To hide: “It is better to hide than confront. Barricade yourself in, turn your phone to silent and use only when it is safe to do so.” And to tell: “Make sure you know the local emergency numbers in the country you are travelling to. For all EU countries call 112.”

Have there been recent terrorist attacks in France?

There have been a number of terrorist attacks in France over the past decade. In January 2015, eight cartoonists, two guests and two police officers were murdered at the offices of the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo . The gunmen identified as belonging to al-Qaeda.

In November that year, in the deadliest terrorist attack in French history, 131 people were killed and 413 were injured in a series of shooting and grenade attacks at the Bataclan music venue, near the Stade de France and at several restaurants and bars across Paris. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attacks.

In July 2016, 86 people were killed and 434 injured in Nice after a 19-tonne cargo truck was driven into crowds during Bastille Day celebrations on the Promenade des Anglais in Nice. Again Islamic State claimed responsibility.

What if I want to cancel my trip to France?

If you have booked a package holiday to France and want to cancel your trip for any reason, contact your tour operator and they might offer flexibility with alternative dates. 

But bear in mind that, because the Foreign Office has not issued any advice against travel to France, there is no guarantee that you will receive a refund, nor will you be able to claim money back with your travel insurance company.

If you have booked flights and accommodation independently, and wish to cancel your holiday, contact your travel providers as soon as possible to see if you can rearrange your plans. Note, however, that given the circumstances, it is unlikely you will receive a full refund.

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Pope Francis may visit United States in September after UN invitation

By Andrea Gagliarducci

Rome Newsroom, Apr 25, 2024 / 07:22 am

Pope Francis is reportedly considering returning to the United States in September to speak before the United Nations General Assembly.

The news was initially reported by the French Catholic newspaper La Croix and has not yet been officially confirmed by the Vatican. A source from the Vatican Secretariat of State, meanwhile, told CNA this week that “a formal invitation has arrived from Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, and Pope Francis seems inclined to respond positively.”

If the New York trip occurs, the pope would visit the United Nations during its “Summit of the Future,” which the international body will convene from Sept. 22–23.

The possible trip to the United States could change the pope’s already-busy September travel schedule. The Holy See Press Office has announced that Pope Francis will be in Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Timor Leste, and Singapore from Sept. 2–13.

Pope Francis is also expected at the end of September in Belgium, where he is scheduled to celebrate the 600th anniversary of the University of Louvain, which has been divided into two different linguistic entities since the 1960s. The Holy Father told Mexican television network Televisa last December that he intended to travel to Belgium in 2024.

According to a source familiar with the planning of papal trips, Pope Francis’ trip to Louvain could be postponed to 2025. The postponement of the journey would leave room at the end of September for the visit to the United Nations.

During his planned stay in Belgium, Pope Francis will also celebrate Mass at the national shrine of Koelkenberg. There are also rumors that the pontiff will stop in Luxembourg, one of the small nations favored by the pope for trips to Europe. Luxembourg officials have denied the visit, but the Vatican Secretariat of State has indicated the trip is possible.

The September summit’s objective is to strengthen the structures of the United Nations and global “governance” to face more fully the “new and old challenges” of the coming years, the U.N. has said. 

The meeting will lead a “pact for the future” to advance rapidly toward realizing the U.N.’s “sustainable development goals.”

In a meeting with students in April, Pope Francis described the summit as “an important event,” with the Holy Father urging students to help ensure the plan “becomes concrete and is implemented through processes and actions for change.”

Pope Francis, who is 87, has undergone two surgeries in the last four years and is under regular medical screening. A planned trip to Abu Dhabi to participate in the COP28 meeting was canceled last December due to health reasons. 

The pope was last in the United States in 2015, during which he also appeared before the United Nations.

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The Crackdown on Student Protesters

Columbia university is at the center of a growing showdown over the war in gaza and the limits of free speech..

This transcript was created using speech recognition software. While it has been reviewed by human transcribers, it may contain errors. Please review the episode audio before quoting from this transcript and email [email protected] with any questions.

[TRAIN SCREECHING]

Well, you can hear the helicopter circling. This is Asthaa Chaturvedi. I’m a producer with “The Daily.” Just walked out of the 116 Street Station. It’s the main station for Columbia’s Morningside Heights campus. And it’s day seven of the Gaza solidarity encampment, where a hundred students were arrested last Thursday.

So on one side of Broadway, you see camera crews. You see NYPD officers all lined up. There’s barricades, steel barricades, caution tape. This is normally a completely open campus. And I’m able to — all members of the public, you’re able to walk through.

[NON-ENGLISH SPEECH]

Looks like international media is here.

Have your IDs out. Have your IDs out.

Students lining up to swipe in to get access to the University. ID required for entry.

Swipe your ID, please.

Hi, how are you, officer? We’re journalists with “The New York Times.”

You’re not going to get in, all right? I’m sorry.

Hi. Can I help please?

Yeah, it’s total lockdown here at Columbia.

Please have your IDs out ready to swipe.

From “The New York Times,” I’m Michael Barbaro. This is “The Daily.” Today, the story of how Columbia University has become the epicenter of a growing showdown between student protesters, college administrators, and Congress over the war in Gaza and the limits of free speech. I spoke with my colleague, Nick Fandos.

[UPBEAT MUSIC]

It’s Thursday, April 25.

Nick, if we rewind the clock a few months, we end up at a moment where students at several of the country’s best known universities are protesting Israel’s response to the October 7 attacks, its approach to a war in Gaza. At times, those protests are happening peacefully, at times with rhetoric that is inflammatory. And the result is that the leaders of those universities land before Congress. But the president of Columbia University, which is the subject we’re going to be talking about today, is not one of the leaders who shows up for that testimony.

That’s right. So the House Education Committee has been watching all these protests on campus. And the Republican Chairwoman decides, I’m going to open an investigation, look at how these administrations are handling it, because it doesn’t look good from where I sit. And the House last winter invites the leaders of several of these elite schools, Harvard, Penn, MIT, and Columbia, to come and testify in Washington on Capitol Hill before Congress.

Now, the President of Columbia has what turns out to be a very well-timed, pre-planned trip to go overseas and speak at an international climate conference. So Minouche Shafik isn’t going to be there. So instead, the presidents of Harvard, and Penn, and MIT show up. And it turned out to be a disaster for these universities.

They were asked very pointed questions about the kind of speech taking place on their campuses, and they gave really convoluted academic answers back that just baffled the committee. But there was one question that really embodied the kind of disconnect between the Committee — And it wasn’t just Republicans, Republicans and Democrats on the Committee — and these college presidents. And that’s when they were asked a hypothetical.

Does calling for the genocide of Jews violate Penn’s rules or code of conduct? Yes or no?

If the speech turns into conduct, it can be harassment.

And two of the presidents, Claudine Gay of Harvard and Elizabeth Magill of the University of Pennsylvania, they’re unwilling to say in this really kind of intense back and forth that this speech would constitute a violation of their rules.

It can be, depending on the context.

What’s the context?

Targeted at an individual. Is it pervasive?

It’s targeted at Jewish students, Jewish individuals. Do you understand your testimony is dehumanizing them?

And it sets off a firestorm.

It does not depend on the context. The answer is yes. And this is why you should resign. These are unacceptable answers across the board.

Members of Congress start calling for their resignations. Alumni are really, really ticked off. Trustees of the University start to wonder, I don’t know that these leaders really have got this under control. And eventually, both of them lose their jobs in a really high profile way.

Right. And as you’ve hinted at, for somewhat peculiar scheduling reasons, Columbia’s President escapes this disaster of a hearing in what has to be regarded as the best timing in the history of the American Academy.

Yeah, exactly. And Columbia is watching all this play out. And I think their first response was relief that she was not in that chair, but also a recognition that, sooner or later, their turn was going to come back around and they were going to have to sit before Congress.

Why were they so certain that they would probably end up before Congress and that this wasn’t a case of completely dodging a bullet?

Well, they remain under investigation by the committee. But also, as the winter wears on, all the same intense protests just continue unabated. So in many ways, Columbia’s like these other campuses. But in some ways, it’s even more intense. This is a university that has both one of the largest Jewish student populations of any of its peers. But it also has a large Arab and Muslim student population, a big Middle Eastern studies program. It has a dual degree program in Tel Aviv.

And it’s a university on top of all that that has a real history of activism dating back to the 1960s. So when students are recruited or choose to come to Columbia, they’re actively opting into a campus that prides itself on being an activist community. It’s in the middle of New York City. It’s a global place. They consider the city and the world, really, like a classroom to Columbia.

In other words, if any campus was going to be a hotbed of protest and debate over this conflict, it was going to be Columbia University.

Exactly. And when this spring rolls around, the stars finally align. And the same congressional committee issues another invitation to Minouche Shafik, Columbia’s President, to come and testify. And this time, she has no excuse to say no.

But presumably, she is well aware of exactly what testifying before this committee entails and is highly prepared.

Columbia knew this moment was coming. They spent months preparing for this hearing. They brought in outside consultants, crisis communicators, experts on anti-Semitism. The weekend before the hearing, she actually travels down to Washington to hole up in a war room, where she starts preparing her testimony with mock questioners and testy exchanges to prep her for this. And she’s very clear on what she wants to try to do.

Where her counterparts had gone before the committee a few months before and looked aloof, she wanted to project humility and competence, to say, I know that there’s an issue on my campus right now with some of these protests veering off into anti-Semitic incidents. But I’m getting that under control. I’m taking steps in good faith to make sure that we restore order to this campus, while allowing people to express themselves freely as well.

So then the day of her actual testimony arrives. And just walk us through how it goes.

The Committee on Education and Workforce will come to order. I note that —

So Wednesday morning rolls around. And President Shafik sits at the witness stand with two of her trustees and the head of Columbia’s new anti-Semitism task force.

Columbia stands guilty of gross negligence at best and at worst has become a platform for those supporting terrorism and violence against the Jewish people.

And right off the bat, they’re put through a pretty humbling litany of some of the worst hits of what’s been happening on campus.

For example, just four days after the harrowing October 7 attack, a former Columbia undergraduate beat an Israeli student with a stick.

The Republican Chairwoman of the Committee, Virginia Foxx, starts reminding her that there was a student who was actually hit with a stick on campus. There was another gathering more recently glorifying Hamas and other terrorist organizations, and the kind of chants that have become an everyday chorus on campus, which many Jewish students see as threatening. But when the questioning starts, President Shafik is ready. One of the first ones she gets is the one that tripped up her colleagues.

Does calling for the genocide of Jews violate Columbia’s code of conduct, Mr. Greenwald?

And she answers unequivocally.

Dr. Shafik?

Yes, it does.

And, Professor —

That would be a violation of Columbia’s rules. They would be punished.

As President of Columbia, what is it like when you hear chants like, by any means necessary or Intifada Revolution?

I find those chants incredibly distressing. And I wish profoundly that people would not use them on our campus.

And in some of the most interesting exchanges of the hearing, President Shafik actually opens Columbia’s disciplinary books.

We have already suspended 15 students from Columbia. We have six on disciplinary probation. These are more disciplinary actions that have been taken probably in the last decade at Columbia. And —

She talks about the number of students that have been suspended, but also the number of faculty that she’s had removed from the classroom that are being investigated for comments that either violate some of Columbia’s rules or make students uncomfortable. One case in particular really underscores this.

And that’s of a Middle Eastern studies professor named Joseph Massad. He wrote an essay not long after Hamas invaded Israel and killed 1,200 people, according to the Israeli government, where he described that attack with adjectives like awesome. Now, he said they’ve been misinterpreted, but a lot of people have taken offense to those comments.

Ms. Stefanik, you’re recognized for five minutes.

Thank you, Chairwoman. I want to follow up on my colleague, Rep Walberg’s question regarding Professor Joseph Massad. So let me be clear, President —

And so Representative Elise Stefanik, the same Republican who had tripped up Claudine Gay of Harvard and others in the last hearing, really starts digging in to President Shafik about these things at Columbia.

He is still Chair on the website. So has he been terminated as Chair?

Congresswoman, I —

And Shafik’s answers are maybe a little surprising.

— before getting back to you. I can confirm —

I know you confirmed that he was under investigation.

Yes, I can confirm that. But I —

Did you confirm he was still the Chair?

He says that Columbia is taking his case seriously. In fact, he’s under investigation right now.

Well, let me ask you this.

I need to check.

Will you make the commitment to remove him as Chair?

And when Stefanik presses her to commit to removing him from a campus leadership position —

I think that would be — I think — I would — yes. Let me come back with yes. But I think I — I just want to confirm his current status before I write —

We’ll take that as a yes, that you will confirm that he will no longer be chair.

Shafik seems to pause and think and then agree to it on the spot, almost like she is making administrative decisions with or in front of Congress.

Now, we did some reporting after the fact. And it turns out the Professor didn’t even realize he was under investigation. So he’s learning about this from the hearing too. So what this all adds up to, I think, is a performance so in line with what the lawmakers themselves wanted to hear, that at certain points, these Republicans didn’t quite know what to do with it. They were like the dog that caught the car.

Columbia beats Harvard and UPenn.

One of them, a Republican from Florida, I think at one point even marvelled, well, you beat Harvard and Penn.

Y’all all have done something that they weren’t able to do. You’ve been able to condemn anti-Semitism without using the phrase, it depends on the context. But the —

So Columbia’s president has passed this test before this committee.

Yeah, this big moment that tripped up her predecessors and cost them their jobs, it seems like she has cleared that hurdle and dispatched with the Congressional committee that could have been one of the biggest threats to her presidency.

Without objection, there being no further business, the committee stands adjourned. [BANGS GAVEL]

But back on campus, some of the students and faculty who had been watching the hearing came away with a very different set of conclusions. They saw a president who was so eager to please Republicans in Congress that she was willing to sell out some of the University’s students and faculty and trample on cherished ideas like academic freedom and freedom of expression that have been a bedrock of American higher education for a really long time.

And there was no clearer embodiment of that than what had happened that morning just as President Shafik was going to testify before Congress. A group of students before dawn set up tents in the middle of Columbia’s campus and declared themselves a pro-Palestinian encampment in open defiance of the very rules that Dr. Shafik had put in place to try and get these protests under control.

So these students in real-time are beginning to test some of the things that Columbia’s president has just said before Congress.

Exactly. And so instead of going to celebrate her successful appearance before Congress, Shafik walks out of the hearing room and gets in a black SUV to go right back to that war room, where she’s immediately confronted with a major dilemma. It basically boils down to this, she had just gone before Congress and told them, I’m going to get tough on these protests. And here they were. So either she gets tough and risks inflaming tension on campus or she holds back and does nothing and her words before Congress immediately look hollow.

And what does she decide?

So for the next 24 hours, she tries to negotiate off ramps. She consults with her Deans and the New York Police Department. And it all builds towards an incredibly consequential decision. And that is, for the first time in decades, to call the New York City Police Department onto campus in riot gear and break this thing up, suspend the students involved, and then arrest them.

To essentially eliminate this encampment.

Eliminate the encampment and send a message, this is not going to be tolerated. But in trying to quell the unrest, Shafik actually feeds it. She ends up leaving student protesters and the faculty who support them feeling betrayed and pushes a campus that was already on edge into a full blown crisis.

[SLOW TEMPO MUSIC]

After the break, what all of this has looked like to a student on Columbia’s campus. We’ll be right back.

[PHONE RINGS]

Is this Isabella?

Yes, this is she.

Hi, Isabella. It’s Michael Barbaro from “The Daily.”

Hi. Nice to meet you.

Earlier this week, we called Isabella Ramírez, the Editor in Chief of Columbia’s undergraduate newspaper, “The Columbia Daily Spectator,” which has been closely tracking both the protests and the University’s response to them since October 7.

So, I mean, in your mind, how do we get to this point? I wonder if you can just briefly describe the key moments that bring us to where we are right now.

Sure. Since October 7, there has certainly been constant escalation in terms of tension on campus. And there have been a variety of moves that I believe have distanced the student body, the faculty, from the University and its administration, specifically the suspension of Columbia’s chapters of Students for Justice in Palestine and Jewish Voice for Peace. And that became a huge moment in what was characterized as suppression of pro-Palestinian activism on campus, effectively rendering those groups, quote, unquote, unauthorized.

What was the college’s explanation for that?

They had cited in that suspension a policy which states that a demonstration must be approved within a certain window, and that there must be an advance notice, and that there’s a process for getting an authorized demonstration. But the primary point was this policy that they were referring to, which we later reported, was changed before the suspension.

So it felt a little ad hoc to people?

Yes, it certainly came as a surprise, especially at “Spectator.” We’re nerds of the University in the sense that we are familiar with faculty and University governance. But even to us, we had no idea where this policy was coming from. And this suspension was really the first time that it entered most students’ sphere.

Columbia’s campus is so known for its activism. And so in my time of being a reporter, of being an editor, I’ve overseen several protests. And I’ve never seen Columbia penalize a group for, quote, unquote, not authorizing a protest. So that was certainly, in our minds, unprecedented.

And I believe part of the justification there was, well, this is a different time. And I think that is a reasonable thing to say. But I think a lot of students, they felt it was particularly one-sided, that it was targeting a specific type of speech or a specific type of viewpoint. Although, the University, of course, in its explicit policies, did not outline, and was actually very explicit about not targeting specific viewpoints —

So just to be super clear, it felt to students — and it sounds like, journalistically, it felt to you — that the University was coming down in a uniquely one-sided way against students who were supporting Palestinian rights and may have expressed some frustrations with Israel in that moment.

Yes. Certainly —

Isabella says that this was just the beginning of a really tense period between student protesters and the University. After those two student groups were suspended, campus protests continued. Students made a variety of demands. They asked that the University divest from businesses that profit from Israel’s military operations in Gaza. But instead of making any progress, the protests are met with further crackdown by the University.

And so as Isabella and her colleagues at the college newspaper see it, there’s this overall chilling effect that occurs. Some students become fearful that if they participate in any demonstrations, they’re going to face disciplinary action. So fast forward now to April, when these student protesters learned that President Shafik is headed to Washington for her congressional testimony. It’s at this moment that they set out to build their encampment.

I think there was obviously a lot of intention in timing those two things. I think it’s inherently a critique on a political pressure and this congressional pressure that we saw build up against, of course, Claudine Gay at Harvard and Magill at UPenn. So I think a lot of students and faculty have been frustrated at this idea that there are not only powers at the University that are dictating what’s happening, but there are perhaps external powers that are also guiding the way here in terms of what the University feels like it must do or has to do.

And I think that timing was super crucial. Having the encampment happen on the Wednesday morning of the hearing was an incredible, in some senses, interesting strategy to direct eyes to different places.

All eyes were going to be on Shafik in DC. But now a lot of eyes are on New York. The encampment is set up in the middle of the night slash morning, prior to the hearing. And so what effectively happens is they caught Shafik when she wasn’t on campus, when a lot of senior administration had their resources dedicated to supporting Shafik in DC.

And you have all of those people not necessarily out of commission, but with their focus elsewhere. So the encampment is met with very little resistance at the beginning. There were public safety officers floating around and watching. But at the very beginning hours, I think there was a sense of, we did it.

[CHANTING]: Disclose! Divest! We will not stop! We will not rest. Disclose! Divest! We will not stop!

It would be quite surprising to anybody and an administrator to now suddenly see dozens of tents on this lawn in a way that I think very purposely puts an imagery of, we’re here to stay. As the morning evolved and congressional hearings continued —

Minouche Shafik, open your eyes! Use of force, genocide!

Then we started seeing University delegates that were coming to the encampment saying, you may face disciplinary action for continuing to be here. I think that started around almost — like 9:00 or 10:00 AM, they started handing out these code of conduct violation notices.

Hell no! Hell no! Hell no!

Then there started to be more public safety action and presence. So they started barricading the entrances. The day progressed, there was more threat of discipline. The students became informed that if they continue to stay, they will face potential academic sanctions, potential suspension.

The more they try to silence us, the louder we will be! The more they —

I think a lot of people were like, OK, you’re threatening us with suspension. But so what?

This is about these systems that Minouche Shafik, that the Board of Trustees, that Columbia University is complicit in.

What are you going to do to try to get us out of here? And that was, obviously, promptly answered.

This is the New York State Police Department.

We will not stop!

You are attempting participate in an unauthorized encampment. You will be arrested and charged with trespassing.

My phone blew up, obviously, from the reporters, from the editors, of saying, oh my god, the NYPD is on our campus. And as soon as I saw that, I came out. And I saw a huge crowd of students and affiliates on campus watching the lawns. And as I circled around that crowd, I saw the last end of the New York Police Department pulling away protesters and clearing out the last of the encampment.

[CHANTING]: We love you! We will get justice for you! We see you! We love you! We will get justice for you! We see you! We love you! We will get justice for you! We see you! We love you! We will get justice for you!

It was something truly unimaginable, over 100 students slash other individuals are arrested from our campus, forcefully removed. And although they were suspended, there was a feeling of traumatic event that has just happened to these students, but also this sense of like, OK, the worst of the worst that could have happened to us just happened.

And for those students who maybe couldn’t go back to — into campus, now all of their peers, who were supporters or are in solidarity, are — in some sense, it’s further emboldened. They’re now not just sitting on the lawns for a pro-Palestinian cause, but also for the students, who have endured quite a lot.

So the crackdown, sought by the president and enforced by the NYPD, ends up, you’re saying, becoming a galvanizing force for a broader group of Columbia students than were originally drawn to the idea of ever showing up on the center of campus and protesting?

Yeah, I can certainly speak to the fact that I’ve seen my own peers, friends, or even acquaintances, who weren’t necessarily previously very involved in activism and organizing efforts, suddenly finding themselves involved.

Can I — I just have a question for you, which is all journalism, student journalism or not student journalism, is a first draft of history. And I wonder if we think of this as a historic moment for Columbia, how you imagine it’s going to be remembered.

Yeah, there is no doubt in my mind that this will be a historic moment for Colombia.

I think that this will be remembered as a moment in which the fractures were laid bare. Really, we got to see some of the disunity of the community in ways that I have never really seen it before. And what we’ll be looking to is, where do we go from here? How does Colombia repair? How do we heal from all of this? so That is the big question in terms of what will happen.

Nick, Isabella Ramírez just walked us through what this has all looked like from the perspective of a Columbia student. And from what she could tell, the crackdown ordered by President Shafik did not quell much of anything. It seemed, instead, to really intensify everything on campus. I’m curious what this has looked like for Shafik.

It’s not just the students who are upset. You have faculty, including professors, who are not necessarily sympathetic to the protesters’ view of the war, who are really outraged about what Shafik has done here. They feel that she’s crossed a boundary that hasn’t been crossed on Columbia’s campus in a really long time.

And so you start to hear things by the end of last week like censure, no confidence votes, questions from her own professors about whether or not she can stay in power. So this creates a whole new front for her. And on top of it all, as this is going on, the encampment itself starts to reform tent-by-tent —

— almost in the same place that it was. And Shafik decides that the most important thing she could do is to try and take the temperature down, which means letting the encampment stand. Or in other words, leaning in the other direction. This time, we’re going to let the protesters have their say for a little while longer.

The problem with that is that, over the weekend, a series of images start to emerge from on campus and just off of it of some really troubling anti-Semitic episodes. In one case, a guy holds up a poster in the middle of campus and points it towards a group of Jewish students who are counter protesting. And it says, I’m paraphrasing here, Hamas’ next targets.

I saw an image of that. What it seemed to evoke was the message that Hamas should murder those Jewish students. That’s the way the Jewish students interpreted it.

It’s a pretty straightforward and jarring statement. At the same time, just outside of Columbia’s closed gates —

Stop killing children!

— protestors are showing up from across New York City. It’s hard to tell who’s affiliated with Columbia, who’s not.

Go back to Poland! Go back to Poland!

There’s a video that goes viral of one of them shouting at Jewish students, go back to Poland, go back to Europe.

In other words, a clear message, you’re not welcome here.

Right. In fact, go back to the places where the Holocaust was committed.

Exactly. And this is not representative of the vast majority of the protesters in the encampment, who mostly had been peaceful. They would later hold a Seder, actually, with some of the pro-Palestinian Jewish protesters in their ranks. But those videos are reaching members of Congress, the very same Republicans that Shafik had testified in front of just a few days before. And now they’re looking and saying, you have lost control of your campus, you’ve turned back on your word to us, and you need to resign.

They call for her outright resignation over this.

That’s right. Republicans in New York and across the country began to call for her to step down from her position as president of Columbia.

So Shafik’s dilemma here is pretty extraordinary. She has set up this dynamic where pleasing these members of Congress would probably mean calling in the NYPD all over again to sweep out this encampment, which would mean further alienating and inflaming students and faculty, who are still very upset over the first crackdown. And now both ends of this spectrum, lawmakers in Washington, folks on the Columbia campus, are saying she can’t lead the University over this situation before she’s even made any fateful decision about what to do with this second encampment. Not a good situation.

No. She’s besieged on all sides. For a while, the only thing that she can come up with to offer is for classes to go hybrid for the remainder of the semester.

So students who aren’t feeling safe in this protest environment don’t necessarily have to go to class.

Right. And I think if we zoom out for a second, it’s worth bearing in mind that she tried to choose a different path here than her counterparts at Harvard or Penn. And after all of this, she’s kind of ended up in the exact same thicket, with people calling for her job with the White House, the Mayor of New York City, and others. These are Democrats. Maybe not calling on her to resign quite yet, but saying, I don’t know what’s going on your campus. This does not look good.

That reality, that taking a different tack that was supposed to be full of learnings and lessons from the stumbles of her peers, the fact that didn’t really work suggests that there’s something really intractable going on here. And I wonder how you’re thinking about this intractable situation that’s now arrived on these college campuses.

Well, I don’t think it’s just limited to college campuses. We have seen intense feelings about this conflict play out in Hollywood. We’ve seen them in our politics in all kinds of interesting ways.

In our media.

We’ve seen it in the media. But college campuses, at least in their most idealized form, are something special. They’re a place where students get to go for four years to think in big ways about moral questions, and political questions, and ideas that help shape the world they’re going to spend the rest of their lives in.

And so when you have a question that feels as urgent as this war does for a lot of people, I think it reverberates in an incredibly intense way on those campuses. And there’s something like — I don’t know if it’s quite a contradiction of terms, but there’s a collision of different values at stake. So universities thrive on the ability of students to follow their minds and their voices where they go, to maybe even experiment a little bit and find those things.

But there are also communities that rely on people being able to trust each other and being able to carry out their classes and their academic endeavors as a collective so they can learn from one another. So in this case, that’s all getting scrambled. Students who feel strongly about the Palestinian cause feel like the point is disruption, that something so big, and immediate, and urgent is happening that they need to get in the faces of their professors, and their administrators, and their fellow students.

Right. And set up an encampment in the middle of campus, no matter what the rules say.

Right. And from the administration’s perspective, they say, well, yeah, you can say that and you can think that. And that’s an important process. But maybe there’s some bad apples in your ranks. Or though you may have good intentions, you’re saying things that you don’t realize the implications of. And they’re making this environment unsafe for others. Or they’re grinding our classes to a halt and we’re not able to function as a University.

So the only way we’re going to be able to move forward is if you will respect our rules and we’ll respect your point of view. The problem is that’s just not happening. Something is not connecting with those two points of view. And as if that’s not hard enough, you then have Congress and the political system with its own agenda coming in and putting its thumb on a scale of an already very difficult situation.

Right. And at this very moment, what we know is that the forces that you just outlined have created a dilemma, an uncertainty of how to proceed, not just for President Shafik and the students and faculty at Columbia, but for a growing number of colleges and universities across the country. And by that, I mean, this thing that seemed to start at Columbia is literally spreading.

Absolutely. We’re talking on a Wednesday afternoon. And these encampments have now started cropping up at universities from coast-to-coast, at Harvard and Yale, but also at University of California, at the University of Texas, at smaller campuses in between. And at each of these institutions, there’s presidents and deans, just like President Shafik at Columbia, who are facing a really difficult set of choices. Do they call in the police? The University of Texas in Austin this afternoon, we saw protesters physically clashing with police.

Do they hold back, like at Harvard, where there were dramatic videos of students literally running into Harvard yard with tents. They were popping up in real-time. And so Columbia, really, I think, at the end of the day, may have kicked off some of this. But they are now in league with a whole bunch of other universities that are struggling with the same set of questions. And it’s a set of questions that they’ve had since this war broke out.

And now these schools only have a week or two left of classes. But we don’t know when these standoffs are going to end. We don’t know if students are going to leave campus for the summer. We don’t know if they’re going to come back in the fall and start protesting right away, or if this year is going to turn out to have been an aberration that was a response to a really awful, bloody war, or if we’re at the beginning of a bigger shift on college campuses that will long outlast this war in the Middle East.

Well, Nick, thank you very much. Thanks for having me, Michael.

We’ll be right back.

Here’s what else you need to know today. The United Nations is calling for an independent investigation into two mass graves found after Israeli forces withdrew from hospitals in Gaza. Officials in Gaza said that some of the bodies found in the graves were Palestinians who had been handcuffed or shot in the head and accused Israel of killing and burying them. In response, Israel said that its soldiers had exhumed bodies in one of the graves as part of an effort to locate Israeli hostages.

And on Wednesday, Hamas released a video of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, an Israeli-American dual citizen, whom Hamas has held hostage since October 7. It was the first time that he has been shown alive since his captivity began. His kidnapping was the subject of a “Daily” episode in October that featured his mother, Rachel. In response to Hamas’s video, Rachel issued a video of her own, in which she spoke directly to her son.

And, Hersh, if you can hear this, we heard your voice today for the first time in 201 days. And if you can hear us, I am telling you, we are telling you, we love you. Stay strong. Survive.

Today’s episode was produced by Sydney Harper, Asthaa Chaturvedi, Olivia Natt, Nina Feldman, and Summer Thomad, with help from Michael Simon Johnson. It was edited by Devon Taylor and Lisa Chow, contains research help by Susan Lee, original music by Marion Lozano and Dan Powell, and was engineered by Chris Wood. Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. That’s it for “The Daily.” I’m Michael Barbaro. See you tomorrow.

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Hosted by Michael Barbaro

Featuring Nicholas Fandos

Produced by Sydney Harper ,  Asthaa Chaturvedi ,  Olivia Natt ,  Nina Feldman and Summer Thomad

With Michael Simon Johnson

Edited by Devon Taylor and Lisa Chow

Original music by Marion Lozano and Dan Powell

Engineered by Chris Wood

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Columbia University has become the epicenter of a growing showdown between student protesters, college administrators and Congress over the war in Gaza and the limits of free speech.

Nicholas Fandos, who covers New York politics and government for The Times, walks us through the intense week at the university. And Isabella Ramírez, the editor in chief of Columbia’s undergraduate newspaper, explains what it has all looked like to a student on campus.

On today’s episode

Nicholas Fandos , who covers New York politics and government for The New York Times

Isabella Ramírez , editor in chief of The Columbia Daily Spectator

Background reading

Inside the week that shook Columbia University .

The protests at the university continued after more than 100 arrests.

There are a lot of ways to listen to The Daily. Here’s how.

We aim to make transcripts available the next workday after an episode’s publication. You can find them at the top of the page.

Research help by Susan Lee .

The Daily is made by Rachel Quester, Lynsea Garrison, Clare Toeniskoetter, Paige Cowett, Michael Simon Johnson, Brad Fisher, Chris Wood, Jessica Cheung, Stella Tan, Alexandra Leigh Young, Lisa Chow, Eric Krupke, Marc Georges, Luke Vander Ploeg, M.J. Davis Lin, Dan Powell, Sydney Harper, Mike Benoist, Liz O. Baylen, Asthaa Chaturvedi, Rachelle Bonja, Diana Nguyen, Marion Lozano, Corey Schreppel, Rob Szypko, Elisheba Ittoop, Mooj Zadie, Patricia Willens, Rowan Niemisto, Jody Becker, Rikki Novetsky, John Ketchum, Nina Feldman, Will Reid, Carlos Prieto, Ben Calhoun, Susan Lee, Lexie Diao, Mary Wilson, Alex Stern, Dan Farrell, Sophia Lanman, Shannon Lin, Diane Wong, Devon Taylor, Alyssa Moxley, Summer Thomad, Olivia Natt, Daniel Ramirez and Brendan Klinkenberg.

Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. Special thanks to Sam Dolnick, Paula Szuchman, Lisa Tobin, Larissa Anderson, Julia Simon, Sofia Milan, Mahima Chablani, Elizabeth Davis-Moorer, Jeffrey Miranda, Renan Borelli, Maddy Masiello, Isabella Anderson and Nina Lassam.

Nicholas Fandos is a Times reporter covering New York politics and government. More about Nicholas Fandos

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