Paris in Oct -- or Somewhere else?
 

My husband and I are trying to plan our second trip to Europe this fall. We were there last fall but our holiday was slightly skewed by the fact that I was 2 months pregnant. Last time we did what I consider the big 3, London, Paris, and Rome. I felt that I missed out the most in Paris so I'd like to go back and try again. My main concern is the weather. My books say that in October rainfaill is 2 inches and the temp is 60. We're from Seattle so we won't melt, but I am worried that my dreams of strolling down boulevards and eating at cafes will be dampened (sorry, poor pun). I'd love to hear your views. We have about a week or so -- would prefer to stay in a large city with maybe a small overnight trip somewhere else. Of course we're bringing the baby so no crazy nights out for us. Do you think we should go for Paris because it's what I want, or should we try to find a more friendly climate? Thanks!

We were in Paris last October and had 7 days of clear blue skies, sunshine and 50-60* weather-the nicest week we've ever had there. We have been there in other Octobers and had rain, sun, cool, hot. Paris weather is the most unpredictable on earth. I would not let it deter me from going.

We were in Paris for the first week of October last year and had wonderful weather. We had a couple of days when it rained some but for the most part it was sunny and moderate - perfect weather for sightseeing.

We were in Paris in October 2003, and we're going back this September. The weather was clear and crisp -- there was a bit of a cold snap, so there were days when I wore all my available layers. Other than that, the weather was fabulous.

We're going back too because out of all the cities we saw on that big tour, Paris was THE city we wanted to go for a week, put our suitcases down, and really soak it in.

Happy Travels,

Jules

Your chances of good weather are better of course if you are traveling in early October. October in Paris can bring a variety of weather even within the same week. I had a friend who was there for the entire month last year and kept reporting what great, even warm weather she was enjoying. When I arrived on the 24th I was hoping for the same type of weather but instead was happy I packed my silk long underwear. I had a wonderful time inspite of the unpredictable weather as you will also. By the end of October there was one day I don't think it got above 40 but no one in Paris seemed to mind. The outdoor cafes were still filled thanks to heaters. Just carry your umbrella with you at all times because when you don't have it is when you will most need it ;;) Have a great trip. Deborah

Hi B,

>My main concern is the weather. <

So what, you will be in Paris.

I think that mid Sept to mid Oct is a great time to visit.

((I))

There are average Paris weather statistics on the www.paris.org page (under Tourist Information) which says that's about right for the temp (at least in afternoon), but the avg. rainfall is actually higher, more like 2.4 inches. That isn't particularly a lot, though, if you are from Seattle, I wouldn't think you'd get so upset about that. I know it isn't fun to plan and save for a vacation that doesn't happen often, and then have it pouring rain every day. Certainly affects plans, as well as just walking around. But there aren't hardly any months in Paris when it is less than that (as someone said, Nov is worse, so closer to September would be better). Maybe look at those charts for comparison. I've gone in July a lot, and the avg. rainfall is higher in July than in October.

The avg. October rainfall in London and Vienna is 2.3 inches, Madrid is 2 inches, and Brussels is 3.2 inches in October in the charts I have, and the avg. for Seattle is about 3.5 inches in October.

My husband and I spent 17 nights in Paris during October 2004. It was glorious. I'm from NYC and the weather is similar to here. Whenever someone asks me the best time to visit NYC I always say October! A light jacket was enough over fall clothes. Rain passed through quickly - I don't remember one day that it rained all day. This is a great time to visit - great time for special exhibits. People with school aged kids aren't around. The cafes are bustling and heartier food is on menus. Sun rises late so it's nice to sleep in and stay up late! I've been in May, June, Sept and October and actually enjoyed October the best (althought that may be because I'm a museum & gallery person). Have a great time deciding.

I think you should be prepared for both sunny and rainy weather. That's what happened to us when we visited mid-October a few years ago. The weather ranged from sunny and warm for the first two days and then it turned cold and drizzly for the rest of our visit!

Traditionally October is cool and clear on most days, but the weather is highly variable (as it always is in spring and fall). The rainy and overcast days don't usually really set in until November (and the trees don't start to change color or shed their leaves until late October at the earliest).

With global warming Paris has become hotter at all times of year, including October, but the weather is still nice at that time of year, not unlike spring weather. The main difference is that there are fewer tourists in October than in April.