August in Paris. It’s the time of year that those who live in this vibrant city come to love, or more commonly, leave. If you are one of the lucky few to experience this annual (and literal) ‘closing shop’ of Paris, give in to the stillness and enjoy. How exactly? Here are a few ideas.
1. Travel by bike. Velibing is one of my favorite modes of transport along Paris’ winding paths. With fewer cars on the roads, have no fear!
2. Now is the perfect time to indulge in a fine dining experience. (Given that your restaurant of choice is open). Here’s a reputable list to try.
3. The famous Paris Plage. (Who needs St Tropez?) Worth at least a stop for a game of PĂ©tanque.
4. If you crave some quality alone time, visit the hidden gardens scattered all around Paris. An ideal place to escape with a good book.
5. August is a perfect time to play the role of tourist, regardless if you live in Paris or not. Hop on the batobus and let the fun begin! You can almost see Paris in a day.
6. Fancy an art fix? You’re in the right city, with over 140 museums. Here’s a list by arrondissement. To avoid long lines, the museum pass is not a bad idea.
7. Have you been craving to explore another neighborhood? Now is the time. (I recommend ‘Little Africa‘ in the 18eme.)
8. For those faced with the challenge of learning French, the city is your school. Particularly in August. Find an open cafe, sit at the bar and the lessons begin!
9. To escape those seldom hot but often overcast nights, the cinema, particularly in mid-August is filled with many a ‘must-see’. If weather permits, the Open Air Cinema at Parc de la Villette is even better. (I plan to be there on the 18th for Woody Allen’s Manhattan.)
10. If you have done all of the above and still crave a little adventure, the TGV trains will not disappoint. For a scenic getaway, take a trip to Honfleur or even closer, the gardens of Giverny. Let’s not forget wine tasting in the Loire Valley (my upcoming August adventure).
Am I missing anything?
You nailed it all, great list!
Yeah, great list and I am bookmarking the list of restaurants….
It’s an important resto list! Hope to meet in Paris one of these days…
I meant to tell you…my absolute favorite place in the Loire is Sancerre (and my fav wine). It is a gorgeous hilltop vineyard town…you would love it. The Loire will not disappoint, wherever you choose to go. Thank you for the secret garden list…love it!
Thanks Susan! We already have 2 more trips to that region planned and haven’t even reached the Loire yet!
Glad you enjoyed the post 🙂
Yeah Paris in August advocates. Love it. Nice list.
Glad you enjoyed it! As long as weather cooperates, there is much to do while the city sleeps.
Yep. August is my favorite month here. Great top 10!
I’m so excited to finally experience Paris in August! I’ve always been on the receiving end of this annual expunge from the City of Lights (ie the south of France).
This list looks great and I’m exciting to finally try Velib as well as try some of the restaurants on that amazing list! Thanks for the inspiration, Kasia!
It’s a unique and special city in August. See you soon!!