Top Things to Do in Paris This September: A Local’s Guide
(Updated Aug 2025) – 10 Must-Do Activities in Paris This September
I live in Paris, and every September feels like a fresh start. It’s what we call “La Rentrée” here — I’ll explain more about that later — but think of it as the grand Parisian “reset.” After the long, lazy summer months, locals return from their vacations tanned and energized, children head back to school, and the city suddenly comes alive again. You can feel it in the air: a renewed sense of energy, creativity, and excitement.
September in Paris is a magical time. The intense summer heat gives way to mild, crisp days and golden light that spills across the Seine. Café terraces are buzzing again, museums unveil new exhibitions, and the city’s cultural calendar overflows with festivals, concerts, and foodie events. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Paris in September offers the perfect balance: lively but not chaotic, festive yet intimate.
As someone who’s lived here for over a decade and guides travelers through the city, I love helping people experience Paris like a local. Every month, I share my top picks of things to do, and September is always one of my favorites. This year, I’ve created a special September mood board because there’s just so much happening — from hidden festivals and the best places to eat to chic boutique hotels and unique local experiences.
So grab your notebook, plan your outfits, and get ready to enjoy Paris at its very best.
Here’s your ultimate local’s guide to making the most of September in Paris 2025 — with insider tips you won’t find anywhere else.
psss…🎥 Prefer watching instead of reading? Here’s my full September in Paris video guide with festivals, foodie finds, and local tips!
WHY VISIT PARIS IN SEPTEMBER
September – or “La Rentrée” in France – is one of the best times of the year to experience Paris. After the quiet summer months, locals return from vacation, new cultural seasons begin, and the city comes alive with art, fashion, food, and festivals. It’s a big deal because we really do go away for a month or so – so it’s like starting a new year when we get back …haha
Why you’ll love Paris in September:
Perfect weather – mild, sunny days (13°C–22°C / 55°F–72°F)
Smaller tourist crowds than in summer – we are in the shoulder months, and flight tickets to Paris are even cheaper than normal around this time.
A vibrant cultural calendar – everything is reopening or starting new exhibitions.
Seasonal food & wine festivals – but there are enough good restaurants and a diverse food scene that it’s still a good idea to travel to Paris for food!
WEATHER + PACKING FOR PARIS IN SEPTEMBER
I’m a big fan of wear what you want and whatever makes you happy! In general, September in Paris is all about light layers and effortless chic.
- Average temperatures: 13°C to 22°C (55°F to 72°F)
- Daylight hours: Around 12 hours of sunshine
- What to pack:
- Light trench coat or blazer – as I write this, it’s August, but in the early mornings I go out with a little scarf because I am ‘frileux’, always chilly compared to my friends and family.
- Comfy sneakers for walking – especially if you’ll be doing a tour of Paris. The cobblestones and some uneven streets are sometimes not very easy on your feet.
- Sunglasses for café terraces
- A crossbody bag for security, it’s your perfect companion because you can carry it in front of you and it’s the perfect size to hold all your valuables.
- Light trench coat or blazer – as I write this, it’s August, but in the early mornings I go out with a little scarf because I am ‘frileux’, always chilly compared to my friends and family.
Local tip: Parisians love transitional outfits – think anything that could work from day to night, and I personally always have a scarf in my tote.
1. Explore the Hidden Treasures During Journées du Patrimoine (Heritage Days)
Every September, Paris opens the doors to some of its most exclusive and historical buildings during the Journées du Patrimoine. This unique event allows you to visit iconic sites like the Élysée Palace, the Senate, and numerous private mansions, museums, and libraries that are usually closed to the public. Don’t miss the chance to dive deep into Parisian history and culture through this one-of-a-kind experience.
📍 Across Paris
📅 21–22 September 2025
2. Indulge in Paris’ Café Culture
September is the perfect month to experience Paris’ world-renowned café culture. With the return of Parisians from their summer holidays, the terraces of the city’s cafés are bustling with life. Whether you’re sipping on an espresso at Café de Flore (I’ve said before it’s no longer one of my favorites because the prices are crazy and the waiters have become a bit desensitized – but God forbid I take away a bucket list item for you – I have been many times) or enjoying a glass of wine at Le Select, take time to sit back, relax, and watch the world go by. The mild September weather makes outdoor seating particularly enjoyable.
Wikipedia despcibes Le Select as ” a Parisian brasserie founded in 1923 in the 6th arrondissement at 99 Boulevard Montparnasse, in the Notre-Dame-des-Champs neighborhood. It was one of the more prominent meeting places of the Parisian intellectuals between the two world wars, with a significant place in the Bohemian Culture of the period.[1][2]”
To people watch today you can do so at Cade de la Poste, Cafe Charlot or Le Progres all in Le Marais district and with great service.
Oh and Cafe Nemours across from the Louvre is a cool place to see Paris pass you by!
3. Shop at the Parisian Markets
The vibrant Parisian markets are in full swing in September, offering the freshest seasonal produce. Head to Marché d’Aligre or Marché Bastille to explore stalls brimming with fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and more. It’s a feast for the senses and a great way to experience the local culture. Don’t forget to try some fresh pastries or grab a baguette for a perfect Parisian snack.
I love Le Baron Rouge at Marche d’Aligre, we eat there almost every other week – when it’s oyster season, oh lord, it’s heaven! Otherwise, they have gracious charcuterie and cheese plates to go with the wine and a lively ambiance to boot.
4. Take a Seine River Cruise
See Paris from a different perspective with a Seine River cruise. The cooler September air makes it an ideal time for a leisurely boat ride past the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre. Whether you opt for a daytime tour or a romantic evening cruise, the experience is nothing short of magical.
Yes, believe it or not, I still do this once a year and I take the boys because I simply love to experience Paris from the boats!
My favorite is Le vedette de Pont Neuf
5. Immerse Yourself in Paris Fashion Week
Paris is synonymous with fashion, and there’s no better time to experience this than during Paris Fashion Week in September. While attending the runway shows might be exclusive, the city buzzes with fashion-related events open to the public. Shop at trendy concept stores like Centre Commercial, Merci, Kith, and A.P.C., where you can find the latest in Parisian fashion. These stores offer a mix of chic clothing, accessories, and unique items that make for perfect souvenirs.
Simply just wandering down the street during this time can be an inspiration – just look around at all the beautiful and fashiobanbe folks.
📍 Various venues
📅 23 September – 1 October 2025
6. Dine at Traditional French Restaurants
No trip to Paris is complete without indulging in classic French cuisine. September’s cooler evenings are perfect for enjoying hearty dishes like French onion soup and Confit de Canard. Some of the best places to experience traditional French dining include Le Comptoir du Relais in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Chez Georges near Place des Vosges, and Bistrot Paul Bert in the 11th arrondissement. These establishments offer authentic French dishes in a cozy, quintessentially Parisian atmosphere – not to mention they are truly local favorites.
For my list of the best places in Paris, go HERE for 50% off at checkout!
Additional pages on
*”What to eat in Paris”
*”Where to shop”
*”What to Pack”… it’s longer and better!
Avoid the stress of not knowing where to eat and even what to do. Grab it here
55 Pages of goodness you can have with you on your phone while here and make reservations on the fly!
7. Eat Healthy or Gluten-Free in Paris
Paris has become increasingly accommodating for those seeking healthy or gluten-free dining options. Whether you’re looking for a vegan meal or gluten-free pastries, there are plenty of choices. Visit Soya for organic, plant-based dishes, Noglu for delicious gluten-free options, or Season Paris for a trendy, healthy brunch. These spots are perfect for those who want to enjoy Parisian cuisine without compromising their dietary needs. If you are looking for a Michelin-starred experience there is no denying the opulent vegetarian-focused menu at L’Arpege.
Check out this article with a full list of Gluten Free options in Paris + a MAP
8. Take a Walking Tour of Montmartre with Me, Yanique
Discover the charm and history of Montmartre with a personalized walking tour. As your guide, I’ll take you through the winding streets of this iconic neighborhood, sharing insider stories and hidden gems. From the footsteps of famous artists to secret gardens, Montmartre has so much to offer beyond the typical tourist spots. Book your tour at myparisianlifeshop.com and experience Montmartre like a true local. I really get a kick out of sharing the local faves – It’s been my home for so many years!
You can also read my Paris TOUR REVIEWS HERE
9. Try a Bike Tour with Bike About Tours
Explore Paris on two wheels with Bike About Tours. September’s pleasant weather makes it an ideal time for a bike tour, allowing you to cover more ground than a walking tour while enjoying the city’s sights up close. The guides are knowledgeable and take you off the beaten path to discover hidden gems, charming neighborhoods, and lesser-known landmarks. It’s a fun and eco-friendly way to see Paris.
Plus they run the amazing artisanal coffee shop Le Peloton!
10. Take a Cooking Class at La Cuisine Paris
Immerse yourself in French culinary culture by taking a cooking class at La Cuisine Paris. September is a wonderful time to learn how to make classic French dishes using seasonal ingredients. Whether you want to master the art of making macarons, learn to bake baguettes, or cook a full French meal, the hands-on experience at La Cuisine Paris is both educational and delicious. Plus, you get to enjoy your creations at the end of the class!
I love the location as well – you can finish and easily hop over to Notre Dame or walk to the Louvre!
La Rentree explained – why is September so Important in France!
“La Rentrée” in France is a significant cultural event that marks the end of summer and the return to routine in September. This term literally means “the return” or “the re-entry,” and it carries a deep cultural and social significance. Here’s why it is so important:
1. Back to School (La Rentrée Scolaire)
- Educational Milestone: La Rentrée primarily refers to the start of the new school year. For students, it’s the moment they return to school after the long summer holidays. This event is significant because it marks a fresh start in their academic journey, often involving moving to a new grade, meeting new teachers, and sometimes starting at a new school.
- Nationwide Attention: The French education system is highly centralized, so the school calendar is uniform across the country. This means that millions of students return to school on the same day, making it a nationwide event. The government and media give extensive coverage to La Rentrée, discussing educational reforms, school supplies, and the overall state of the education system.
2. Return to Work (La Rentrée Professionnelle)
- End of Summer Holidays: In France, the summer break is sacred, with many people taking extended vacations, especially in August. La Rentrée marks the return to work for adults as well, often referred to as “La Rentrée Professionnelle.” This period is characterized by a renewed focus on work, with businesses and industries ramping up activity after a slow summer.
- Economic Activity: September is a crucial time for businesses as it signals the start of the last quarter of the year. Companies often plan major projects, product launches, and new initiatives around La Rentrée, making it a pivotal moment in the economic calendar.
3. Cultural Reawakening (La Rentrée Culturelle)
- Cultural Events: September is also when cultural institutions like theaters, museums, and galleries launch their new seasons. Known as “La Rentrée Culturelle,” this period sees the unveiling of new plays, exhibitions, and cultural programs, reinvigorating the country’s cultural scene after the summer lull.
- Literary Significance: La Rentrée Littéraire is particularly important in the French literary world. Hundreds of new books are published during this time, with many vying for prestigious literary prizes like the Prix Goncourt. It’s a major event for writers, publishers, and readers alike.
4. Political Significance
- Political Reboot: La Rentrée is also a crucial time for politicians, who return from their summer break to tackle pressing national issues. It often involves the unveiling of new policies, parliamentary sessions, and the re-engagement of political debates. The media and public pay close attention to the government’s agenda during this period.
5. Social and Psychological Impact
- Resetting Life Rhythms: On a social level, La Rentrée represents a return to routine and normalcy after the relaxation of summer. It’s a time when people refocus on their personal and professional goals, making it a moment of renewal and transition.
- Family Dynamics: For families, La Rentrée is a time of adjustment as they get back into the rhythm of school and work schedules. It’s a period of organization, as parents prepare their children for the school year, often involving the purchase of new clothes, school supplies, and planning extracurricular activities.
In essence, La Rentrée is not just about going back to school or work; it’s a collective reset for the entire country, affecting various aspects of life from education and work to culture and politics. It’s a deeply ingrained tradition that symbolizes new beginnings and the return to order after the freedom of summer.
A bientot!
Paris in September is truly a feast for the senses – a delightful mix of cultural experiences, culinary pleasures, and charming neighborhoods just waiting to be explored. The city comes alive after summer with an energy that’s both vibrant and intimate: locals return, café terraces buzz, and the cultural calendar overflows with fashion, art, and design events.
From exclusive happenings like Heritage Days and Paris Design Week to the simple joys of wandering through open-air markets, sipping wine by the Seine, or people-watching from a café terrace, there’s truly something for everyone in the City of Light this month. Whether you’re indulging in traditional French cuisine, exploring hidden gems on foot, biking through the quiet backstreets, or diving into the world of Parisian fashion, your September visit is sure to be unforgettable.
And remember: Paris rewards those who slow down. French culture is built on savoir-vivre – the art of living well. Don’t try to squeeze in everything; leave space to roam, wander, and get lost. That’s when you discover the Paris most people miss.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the endless options or simply want a curated experience, I’d love to help you plan the perfect trip:
- Join me on a personalized Montmartre walking tour to see the city through my eyes
- Or grab one of my digital Paris guides – packed with local tips and insider favorites
Paris in September is magic – let’s make sure you experience the very best of it. ✨Bisous,
Yanique