Is November a good time to visit Paris? What I learned!!

   

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Tourist admiring the Eiffel Tower on a cloudy day in November.

Passport ✔️, suitcase ✔️, fun you BIG CHECK. Vacation mode activated!! So you’re planning a trip and you want to know if November is a good time to visit Paris. One of the most iconic cities on the planet. 

Iconic museums, iconic landmarks, and shopping heck even you’re going to feel iconic once you’re in Paris.

The City of Light attracts millions of visitors from all corners of the earth each year. It’s usually crowded or super crowded depending on when you visit. 

There are less crowds in the fall months compared to the summer. You can beat the largest crowds in November, but there are a few things that you should know that will help make your trip an unforgettable experience.

 I learned a few things during my trip to Paris that are sure to help you during your dream vacation.

A rainy day in Paris.

is paris rainy in november?

Rain is pretty regular in November. While I was in Paris there were a few light showers that lasted about 5 minutes that passed through each day. I recommend packing a light rain jacket or umbrella. 

Don’t worry if you forget to pack an umbrella. Your hotel may have one, and if not then you can purchase one from the souvenir store.

It would be a good idea to check the Paris forecast before arriving and pack accordingly because the weather could change. 

The showers never seem to last long so don’t get discouraged if it begins to rain while you are out. To me, the light rain adds to the romantic vibe of the city. 

The plane tickets might have a price tag, but cuddling next to your loved one on a rainy day in the most romantic city on earth is priceless. 

Photo of the Seine River.

what is the best way to get around paris?

If you’re traveling on a budget the most economical way to get around Paris is public transportation. You can purchase a visitor day pass that lasts for one calendar day not 24 hours. 

The price varies from 13 to 28 euros for an adult, and from 6 to 14 euros for a child. The prices also depend on which zone that you are in.

If you like your privacy and don’t mind spending a little more, in my opinion the best way to get around Paris is by using the Bolt car service. 

The Bolt car service is the European version of Uber. All you have to do is download the app, turn on your location and then request a ride. 

You don’t have to put a card on file using Bolt, you can pay the driver in cash at the end of your ride. I use Bolt to travel around Paris.

The rides usually cost around 17 euros per trip and about 50 euros to and from the airport. 

where to get cash in paris?

Trying to find a cash exchange location that doesn’t charge you your arm can be difficult.  As in most Cities in Europe the cash exchange rates vary depending on which store that you visit. 

The cash exchange locations in the airport and nearby popular tourist attractions charge a higher exchange rate. You definitely want to avoid exchanging cash in those areas. 

If you need euros, get them from the ATM. You can withdraw euros from the ATM and your bank will charge an exchange fee. That fee is usually cheaper than what the cash exchange locations charge. 

Be mindful of how many times that you swipe your card because the exchange fees can quickly add up.

A windmill in Paris.

what to wear in paris in november?

Paris can get pretty cold during November. Temperatures usually range from mid 50s during the day and low 40s at night. 

With that being said, if you’re going to be walking you would want to pack a thick coat, gloves, and a hat.

Also remember to check the local forecast before you arrive. If rain is in the forecast you would want to pack an umbrella or a rain jacket. 

When I was in Paris it was rainy and cold. I packed my clothes for that kind of weather and I was able to have an amazing trip. 

The pyramid entrance to the Louvre museum.
Is Paris very expensive?

Known as the fashion capital of the world, París is home to every high end designer brand that you can think of (and some that you can’t).

Paris is also home to countless luxury hotels and fancy restaurants serving high end yummies. 

So it should go without saying that Paris can get pretty expensive, but even if you’re not a  high roller Paris has something to offer for people of all budgets.

Do your research before arriving and you will surely find some activities and restaurants that are within your budget. 

Steak shish kabobs, fries, and salad,

To wrap things up,

  • Pack an umbrella and a light rain jacket.
  • Download the Bolt app before your trip or Use public transportation to get around. 
  • Use the ATM whenever you need euros.
  • Pack warm clothes, a thick coat, gloves and a hat.
  • Research the prices of different restaurants and hotels before making reservations.

Also try to learn a little French before your trip. It will help at restaurants and with talking to your Bolt drivers. Not many people speak English outside of the hotels or tourist areas.

I also like to use the Big Bus to get around Paris. You can get a hop on hop off ticket for around 17 euros and it is good for 24 hours.

The Bus will take you around the city making stops at all of the major landmarks and you can hop on and off as much as you like for 24 hours. 

Another cool thing about the Big Bus is that they provide audio commentary that will inform you about the city as you are riding.

If you follow these tips you will see that November is a wonderful time to visit Paris. You can experience the splendor of the city with less crowds and cheaper prices.

But always remember to pack your adventure spirit and safe travels!!!

The Eiffel Tower at night.

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