arjay

It's happening again: the airlines are posting these hard-to-resist, affordable fares for Europe. As an easily chilled-to-the-bone weather ninny, I've always rejected the notion of going overseas in the drearier months, but $$-reason just might overcome my gooseflesh aversion one of these days. So which is better? There's a longer period of daylight, I would guess, to enjoy the Parisian street-scene in March? Is one wetter/colder/drearier than the other? Can you sense a bit of spring by March? What other considerations? Look forward to hearing any thoughts/recommendations.

Frank

We went to Paris this past March and had a great time. Maybe just lucky but had no rain at all. The weather was generally high 50's to mid 60's, great for siteseeing with just a light jacket. Trees were just beginning to bud. Nights were cool but pleasant and would highly recommend late March. The trick with the off-season packages is to take the latest dates (or earliest for November) possible just before the rates go up. Keep in mind that temps are similar in late March and early April, as a matter of fact there is less rain in March. Whatever you decide, I'm sure you will have a great time.

T.J.

I'm in Paris right now (October 20), freezing my *** off. It's about 45, cloudy and damp. On the other hand, three days ago it was 65 and sunny, absolutely perfect. It's pretty variable this time of year, as well as in March. You'll have longer days in March, but you'll have more leaves on the trees in November. I'd call it a toss-up.

elvira

November weather in Paris can be nippy, rainy, cloudy. March weather in Paris can be nippy, rainy, cloudy. Sunbathing is not an option. To compensate, the museums are open; opera and ballet seasons are in full swing; Angelina's hot chocolate tastes especially good; ditto boeuf bourguignon. Photographs come out really, really good (something to do with the moist air and low sun). The department stores are running sales (Christmas decorations in November; Easter decorations in March). The Champs Elysees looks different when the trees are bare. Busloads of tourists are lots fewer. Church concerts are plentiful. <BR>And, it is Paris; Paris in a blizzard is better than just about anyplace else on a sunny day...

Jen

Went to Paris this past March and had a wonderful time! It was warm and sunny. Many of the fountains aren't running at that time and the flowers are just being planted but there aren't as many "tourists" and everyone (even the French) seemed to appreciate that. Everyone was very patient with us English only speakers.

arjay

Thanks, all. Yep, I figured in that low-tourist-ratio as a definite entry in the Pro column for either month! Appreciate all your comments.

who cares

Where else would you rather be, even if it's raining? I, also, was there last March and the weather was stunning -- except for the day we left. We decided that Paris was as sad as we were.

Liza

My choice (between these miserable two) would be March. At least the bulbs may be blooming, wherease it's really dreary in November. I would disagree that Paris is so spectacular no matter what the weather...Wandering about Paris is best enjoyed in the NICER weather...

Lori

Hi arjay, <BR>You are right about those hard to resist airfares to Europe. I was in Paris in May and am returning for a long weekend in November. With the roundtrip airfare at $328, how can we not go? (Christmas present to each other). I have been in Paris in May (perfect), October (rainy, nippy, cold), and am expecting the same October weather in November. But I'd much rather be there in the rain that in NY. Great way to enjoy the museums, stores, operas, etc. And there's nothing like going into a cafe when you are cold and enjoying a nice glass of red wine.

arjay

Lori: Be sure to post back any "newest" finds. I think I'm kicking myself - for precipitously booking an E'hostel in Feb, which puts next March in Paris out of reach. So guess it might have to be in (flower)bulb-less November...

Wendy

I lived in Paris for five months -- from Feb. to June. The weather in March was pretty dismal (but then, I'm a native Californian with little cold weather experience). But I bundled up in a big coat, hat and gloves and had the time of my life. And when May came, I realized that Paris is even more amazing when it's sunny. <BR> <BR>I think the main issue is that Paris is a very "walk-able" city -- it's best seen on foot. So, when the weather stinks, it can make that experience more difficult. <BR> <BR>But don't let the weather stop you. I think you'll find the trade-offs -- fewer tourists, shorter lines, etc.-- worth a few days of chilly weather. Have a blast. I'm jealous.

Maira

I would go in November and try to get some Christmas shopping done and see how the preparations for the Millenium are going!

Danny

I have been in Paris in March, June, November, and December. The warmest weather I had was in March (30C/86F). November can be very bleak but if you are lucky, the drizzle will only be intermittent. Make sure you go to the Musée D'Orsay (better than the Louvre), Rodin's museum, and the Père LaChaise cemetary.

Judy

Dear Arjay: <BR> <BR>I've been there in November and March.March is better. Paris can be pretty rainy in November.