Forecasts call for rain all this week in Paris (my husband and I are leaving tonight for our first trip to Paris!). Is this typical in May or did we hit a streak of bad weather. Is it commonly cold - and what should I pack if this weather is true? I was planning to bring warm weathered clothes initially but i sense this is a bad idea..

You may be disappointed in the rain, but the French will be delighted, as it's been very, very dry this spring and warmer than usual. It was uncomfortably warm for much of last week, and so dry that my eyes burned from the dust and pollen. Paris is typically a bit rainy in the spring (just like much of the U.S.) and the temperature can vary quite a bit from day to day and even during the same day (just like much of the U.S.).

So, pack for uncertain weather, including at least one pair of long pants and a lightweight waterproof top layer as well as an umbrella. Definitely consider your choice of shoes. Your other clothing can be layered as necessary (since it should all be coordinating in any case).

thank you so much! I understand when rain is needed, I am sure the Parisians are enjoying it. I am so happy to go i don't mind what the weather does. Is it still calling for rain showers all week?

I'm in Amsterdam working this and next week and they are calling for rain most all of the days. If it is not raining, it will still be cloudy. Definitely pack with layers and bring something that will break the wind - it's been really windy here too. I wore an undershirt yesterday for added warmth, but a light jacket was enough for outside during the day.

I've been in Paris for five days now. We had a couple of days with sun -- it's sunny now. Mostly it has been gray and some cold days. Bring a scarf. My friend did not pack any heavy clothes and has been cold at times. Some days the forecast was for sunny but we never saw the sun. Today they forecasted gray and it is now sunny. Mostly, I would say the weather fluctuates with cold in morning.

great! thank you - i will definitely pack scarf did not think of that.