What to Wear in Paris in the Fall: Tips for Packing for Paris in the Fall (+ Packing List!)
Fall is one of my favorite times to visit Paris. The crowds in front of the Louvre are finally starting to die out. The trees turn gold in the Tuileries gardens. Most importantly, temperatures cool enough to appreciate some of the finest food the city has to offer; you can read more about that here.
However, the downside is that the weather can get wildly unpredictable. The skies may turn gray, and the air may cool, but summer doesn't die out on September 1st. You can easily feel like you're getting through all four seasons in a single day, and showers are common, especially later in the season.
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Figuring out what to wear in Paris in the fall can be a challenge. For general packing rules, I follow these year-round: neutral colors, a capsule wardrobe, and dressing for the occasion. See my full guide to what to wear in Paris. Below is everything specific to fall.
I have a free printable packing list for fall in Paris.
Table of Contents
Fall Weather in Brief
Temperatures average between 55°F and 70°F in September, dropping to between 43°F and 52°F by November, not freezing, but cool enough to regret not packing an extra sweater (been there, done that). For the exact averages, events, and month-by-month outlook, see Paris in September, Paris in October, and visiting Paris in November.
There are some things you should pack when visiting the City of Light no matter the season. But packing for fall requires even more thought if you don't want to spend your trip regretting the clothes you left at home and staring at your suitcase in disgust every morning.
This packing list comes from several years of trial and error. Maybe I can save you some of the discomfort I've experienced by sharing exactly what to bring on your next autumn trip to Paris. Here are some things to keep in mind when traveling to Paris in the fall.
Fall temperatures are generally pretty pleasant for exploring Paris, until it starts raining. Sure, there are plenty of places to explore on a rainy day, but it would be a shame to miss out on everything else the city has to offer. The solution? The right outerwear. With a good waterproof coat, you're ready to explore the quaint cobblestone streets, grand avenues, and legendary gardens that make Paris what it is.
A classic waterproof trench coat in tan, gray, navy, or black is an excellent choice for fall in Paris. It's part of every Parisienne's wardrobe, and it should be part of yours too. It's light enough to carry around once the weather warms up, but it will serve you well on a rainy day too. You can also layer it according to temperature, which is convenient since it might vary widely during your stay.
A relative newcomer I've seen more and more on recent trips to Paris is the ciré, those gum raincoats traditionally worn by seamen, often in a cheerful yellow (mine is navy with white stripes). I'm not sure how many of these wannabe sailors actually spend weekends on a boat in Brittany, but they work quite well for Parisian rain.
Bring the Right Shoes
Another piece of outerwear you'll see everywhere is the leather jacket. Wear it with jeans during the day and with a smart dress at night.
The wrong shoes can quickly turn your dream trip into a painful nightmare, especially in Paris, where you'll likely spend a lot of time exploring cobblestone streets or stomping around museum grounds. Much like outerwear, you want shoes that can handle a day of splashing through puddles and uneven pavement.
I love my Jambu day-to-day, and they work great on a dry day, but pack waterproof shoes for extended time in the rain (Jambu makes those too). I don't recommend rain boots; they're cumbersome and nowhere near as popular in Paris as they are in the United States.
My favorites are sturdy, weatherproof leather ankle boots. They work well with pants and dressier outfits alike. Make sure to break them in before your trip to avoid blisters, which are even more unpleasant than wet feet. If you have room in your handbag for an extra pair of socks on rainy days, your feet will thank you.
If you're planning on visiting one of Paris's fancier restaurants, bring a dressier pair of shoes as well.
Think Layering
Brisk in the morning, warm in the afternoon, and rainy in the evening, autumn weather in Paris can be finicky. Dressing for the day can be tricky, especially if you want to spend time exploring outdoors.
The best approach is to bring enough layers to mix and match depending on the forecast and your plans for the day. Stick to a neutral palette (Parisians aren't known for extravagant color choices anyway), and it should be a breeze.
Bring several long-sleeved and short-sleeved T-shirts, plus some dressier options like a blouse and a classic white shirt. Add layers with cardigans and sweaters. If you're visiting later in fall (end of October and November), it's worth leaving space in your suitcase for a warmer pullover or two.
As far as bottoms go, dark wash, well-cut denim should be a staple no matter what time of year you visit Paris, but even more so in fall.
Dresses are a convenient travel companion. They instantly make you look put together (don't even think about visiting Paris without a little black dress in your suitcase), and you skip the headache of matching tops and bottoms. With chillier mornings and evenings, I like to bring leggings to layer under lighter dresses if needed. Jersey and sweater dresses travel very well and are versatile enough for a day of exploring or a fancy night out.
Accessories Can Save the Day
I never travel anywhere without a couple of my beloved scarves in tow. I picked up this habit while living in France and working in Switzerland, and it has served me well over the years. You'd be hard-pressed to find a Parisian in the fall, of any age, gender, or social status, not sporting one. It's a great way to add a touch of color to an outfit, and it warms things up when needed.
Hats are stylish and convenient. You've probably seen them on the head of every blogger under the sun, but they also come in handy on a cold morning or during a rain shower, not to mention the occasional bad hair day.
Finally, if you're visiting Paris in the fall, make room in your bags for a travel umbrella.
My Packing List for Paris in the Fall
- A trench coat or other waterproof jacket
- Waterproof ankle boots
- Long and short sleeve T-shirts in neutral tones and stripes
- A white shirt
- A dressy top
- Cardigans
- A warm sweater if traveling late in the fall
- Dark-colored jeans
- Knit dresses
- Black, thick leggings for layering
- Scarves
- Hat
- Travel umbrella
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Paris cold in the fall?
Not really, not until late in the season. September stays mild, running from about 55 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, so a light jacket and a cardigan will get you through most days. Layer in a warmer sweater as you move into October, and save your heaviest coat for late October into November, when temperatures usually hit their lowest point of the season.
Does it rain a lot in Paris in the fall?
Yes, especially as the season goes on. Showers are common all fall and get more frequent toward November, and the weather can flip from sunny to rainy within the same afternoon. A waterproof trench coat, a pair of weatherproof boots, and a travel umbrella will save you more than once.
What shoes should you wear in Paris in the fall?
Weatherproof leather ankle boots are your best bet. They hold up on the cobblestones, handle a sudden downpour, and look put together with everything from jeans to a knit dress. Whatever you pack, break the shoes in before your trip, and toss an extra pair of socks in your bag for the days when the rain sneaks in.
Do you need a heavy coat in Paris in the fall?
Not for most of the season, but pack one for the tail end. A waterproof trench or a leather jacket handles September and October layered over a sweater, but by late October and into November you will want something warmer, like a real pullover, underneath that trench for the coldest, rainiest stretch.
How many outfits should I pack for a week in Paris in the fall?
Fewer than you think, if you build them around layers. A handful of tops in neutral tones, two or three bottoms like dark denim or a knit dress, a cardigan or two, and one solid outer layer will mix and match for a full week. Swap in a different scarf each day and no one will notice you are wearing that trench twice.
What should you avoid wearing in Paris in the fall?
Skip anything that cannot handle a surprise downpour. Leave flimsy shoes and non-waterproof sneakers at home, since the cobblestones and rain will wreck them fast, and don't pack for only one temperature. Fall days can start cool, warm up by afternoon, and turn rainy by evening, so the traveler who packs light layers beats the one who packed a single heavy outfit.
By Month: Where to Go for More Detail
Fall covers three quite different months. For the exact weather, events, and a fuller local packing breakdown for each, use the dedicated guides:
- What to wear in Paris in September → Still summer-warm at times: bring lighter layers alongside your fall staples.
- What to wear in Paris in October → Peak autumn color and cooling temperatures call for your trench coat and first sweaters.
- Visiting Paris in November → The coldest and rainiest of the three: lean into the warmer pullovers and waterproof everything.
Tips for Packing + PARIS Packing List!
What to Wear in Paris in the Winter
Dreaming of Parisian strolls under a sparkling winter sky? Embrace the charm of the City of Light without shivering in the cold! This insider guide unveils the secrets to packing the perfect winter wardrobe for Paris.
Tips for Packing + PARIS Packing List!
What to Wear in Paris in the Spring
Embrace the enchanting waltz of Parisian spring! This ultimate packing guide unveils the secrets to effortlessly blending style and practicality for a picture-perfect adventure. Forget wardrobe woes and master the art of layering!
Tips for Packing + PARIS Packing List!
What to Wear in Paris in the Summer
Embrace cobblestone strolls, charming cafés, and iconic landmarks without wardrobe woes. This guide reveals what to pack for Paris in summer, from breezy dresses and chic sandals to essential layers and unexpected must-haves.
PACKING FOR PARIS
The Best Bags for Walking Around Paris
Stroll through the cobbled streets of Paris, croissant in one hand and camera in the other, with the perfect bag by your side! Forget clunky backpacks and aching shoulders. My guide unveils the best bags for walking around Paris, ensuring comfort, style, and practicality for every adventure.
How about you? Have you ever been to Paris in the fall before? What is one thing you are glad to have brought? Is there anything you wish you'd brought? Do share!
Illustration commissioned from Linden Eller.
AUTHOR BIO
Andi Fisher
I am married to a French man, lived in France for 3 years, and have been to Paris more than 50 times. I am always a tourist so the information, tips, and tricks I share are created to help you!
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Tips
- Flights
- Look for fares using sites like Skyscanner or Expedia.com.
- For France (Paris), coming from the West Coast, I typically fly Air France or United. From the East Coast, I typically fly Air France or Delta.
- If you travel frequently, consider investing in a Priority Pass for access to airport lounges. Not only will you have a spot to relax before your flight and charge your devices, but you can eat and drink for free (without paying crazy airport prices!)
- Accommodation
- I use Expedia.com, Booking.com, and Hotels.com to find lodging. Always check the reviews on TripAdvisor before booking!
- If you want to stay in a rental, look at VRBO and Plum Guide.
- Transportation
- For rental car agencies, try Rentalcars.com. When traveling in Europe, I use AutoEurope to make reservations. They find the best rates and let you compare car rental agencies. I typically book with Sixt.
- For transportation from CDG Airport to anywhere in Paris, consider pre-booking with Get Transfer. It is one way to be stress-free, and you can request an English-speaking driver.
- Tours + Atractions
- I book tours with companies like Viator and GetYourGuide. Both have a wide variety of activities for every travel style. Other companies to look at include Tours by Locals and Withlocals.
- If you’re visiting a city with multiple attractions, be sure to check out a discount pass, such as CityPASS or Go City.
- Context Travel is another option, and they offer more education-based activities.
- If you are looking to buy tickets to attractions, check out Tiquet.
- Don't Forget Travel Photos
- One of my favorite things to do is to get photos taken of me while on vacation. Flytographer is a great option with photographers all over the world.
- Peace of Mind
- It’s important to have some type of travel insurance to cover any unforeseen accidents, illnesses, threats, or cancellations. I always travel with insurance and would recommend SafetyWing, SquareMouth, or Travelex Insurance as good options.
- Should you have any trouble with flight delays to the extent that you feel you deserve compensation, I encourage you to check out AirHelp. I used them, and for 1 claim I got compensated (transparency: a 2nd claim did not, but I was still glad I tried!).
- Planning
- Check out Le Shop for my digital travel planners and Paris planner!
…and the parisians tend to be more dressy than most of us, so I recommend a nice pair of comfy boots not trainers. Lovely post, love these packing lists. How big will your luggage be?
I went to Paris after Christmas a few years ago and agree with your list! Make sure you love your coat as it will be in all of your pictures. Great list, thanks for sharing.
one day I will be able to visit Paris. It’s one of my goals to take the whole family.
Paris is one of my family goals to visit. You have great lists here, I love that you give a heads-up with the travel umbrella. Thanks for sharing.
Oh how I wish I was in Paris this Fall. Your packing tips are so spot on–and I would recommend a little striped Parisian flare, too!
I wish to go to Paris one day! I love these outfit ideas too.
I’ve just had my first experience of unpredictable Parisian autumn weather this week. So I certainly need to up my game when packing my suitcase for next week.
I totally second your advice on layers. And i do need a waterproof coat (forecast for next week is absolutely dreadful, six days of rain in a row). Would love a Cires, keep toying with the idea of buying one whenever I go to Brittany.
Great recommendations! I especially love the tip to bring along scarves. I agree that they can really make an outfit pop — so easily (and they’re easy to pack, too)!
Your Paris packing list sounds like how I want to dress everyday, perhaps a trip to Paris is in order?
Reading this is making me want to book a trip to Paris! It’s such a beautiful city any time of the year, but there is something special about fall – as long as you have a great coat. 😀
These are great tips! I’m in the UK right now and had the hardest time packing because I couldn’t remember what 55 and cloudy felt like being from Oklahoma where it’s still 90 and humid this time of year!
I can imagine the Parisians dress similairly to us Brits, BUT with more style! I’ve neve visited Paris in the fall, but I bet it looks amazing with the colourful leaves.
This is a great list. I think I need to wannabe sailor rainjacket! They sound fun.
I’m all about layering and comfy shoes when I travel!
These are great tips. I tend to opt for comfort over style anywhere in the world. Add in the fashionable sophistication of France, and I usually feel a bit lost on what to pack!
Ill be in Paris in 3 weeks and have been endlessly researching the weather. This post has come at the perfect time. I tend to layer my clothes when im unsure about the weather. Sometimes its sunny in the morning and gets colder throughout the day
Thanks for the tips🙂🙂
I love that you gave a list of what to pack, and I totally agree about layering! Makes all the difference 🙂
Great tips! Paris is the city of style and I always feel like I need to dress my absolute best when visiting :)! Great tip about layering becuase it is so important to stay warm while looking good and exploring!
Man Andi, you are going to get me in so much trouble if Darcee sees this cause she is dying to go to Paris and she loves the FALL! SO I buess I really need to get my packing list for what to wear in Paris in the Fall so I don’t freeze to death! Very smart to recommend the layers cause I can imagine that some days are beautiful and warm and then suddenly the next day might be a wee bit nippy!
First of all, I must comment on “while I was living in France and working in Switzerland”. Ohhh how I hope this sentence could come out of my mouth one day! Having only been to Paris in the summer (both times), I haven’t had to pack for cooler weather but I totally agree with layering, scarves as the top accessory and a neutral color palette. You’re right…Parisians aren’t known for flashy colors anyway. But this is a packing tip I stick too all the time-usually one color scheme (mine is usually black) so I only have to pack what works with that or around that!
I’ve never been to Paris and think all your suggestions are great. Layering is always key when visiting a city during the Fall months. You mentioned not to forget to pack a LBD. Why is that? Do you need to wear a LBD to many of the places in Paris? Good tip about the travel umbrella too!
Thanks for sharing very useful tips on what to wear in Paris during Fall. As during fall, it becomes very confusing that what to wear but it is great to you shared some useful clothing list. Layering clothing and right choice of shoes looks perfect for me.
Dressing properly when visiting Paris is important. I am from Paris but I haven’t lived there for over 20 years and I have to pay attention not to look like a tourist, otherwise I would get targeted by pickpockets… The ankle boots are essential. I used to wear out my shoes living in Paris so I definitely recommend a good quality, waterproof pair!
Such a helpful list – thank you for writing everything you packed! So helpful for chronic overpackers like me lol
I appreciate the lack of skirts, I’m usually feeling colder than others. I’m looking forward to a list of what to wear in France in the winter. We’ve got a tour de force to see the entire family for the holidays!
I agree with your packing list, enough to keep warm without overdoing it! The coat is a key piece as you´ll be wearing it, so I´d recommend bringing one you LOVE, or better yet… hit the shops in Paris and grab a coat as a funtional souveneir for the trip! And I´m totally with you on the scarves – they add a unique twist on the outfit when you´re repeating the same few pieces!
Great packing advice and how to be super trendy in fall with a good basic wardrobe!
Thanks for the packing tips. We’re starting and ending our three month trip to France, in Paris. Definitely going to be doing a lot of packing of items for layering, and I just bought some new boots (and have worn them in) so that they’re super comfy for lots of walking.
Honestly Layering is the way to go! Versatile layers that you can wear on their own or together! Great tips!
I’ve been to Paris maybe three times now but don’t think its ever been in fall! I bet it’s so atmospheric then. Now I really want to go back! Bisous!
You always have the best tips Andi 🙂
And I am saving your article for later, we have just booked our first trip to Paris, we’re going there at the eny of may!
Great tips. That’s half of my wardrobe, but great tips with a raincoat and angel water proof boots.I will be there in 4 weeks 😀
@Olympia, I am here now, and let me tell you tennis shoes are ALL the rage! Never in my life have I seen so many people, young and old wearing them! So if you want comfort and to be in step with the current fashion, pack your sneakers! You will be arriving just as I am leaving!
@Andi Fisher, good to hear! I’ll be there in November and am planning on wearing my black tennis shoes!