Weather
London
London is a year-round tourist center. Your best chance of good weather is, of course, at the height of summer in July and August, but there’s certainly no guarantee of sun even in those months—plus it’s when you can expect the biggest crowds and highest prices.
A typical London-area weather forecast for a summer day predicts “scattered clouds with sunny periods and showers, possibly heavy at times.” Summer temperatures seldom rise above 78 F (25 C) nor drop below 35 F (2 C) in winter. London, being in one of the mildest parts of the country, can be very pleasant in the spring and fall. Yes, it rains, but you’ll rarely get a true downpour. Rains are heaviest in November, when the city averages 2.5 inches. Few of its attractions close or significantly reduce their opening hours in winter.
Paris
The weather in Paris is fickle. Rain is more common than snow throughout the winter, prompting longtime residents to complain about the occasional bone-chilling dampness. What most likely chills a Parisian heart are the winds that sweep along the city’s boulevards, channeled by bordering buildings. In recent years, Paris has had about 15 snow days a year, while there are only a few oppressively hot days (over 86 F, 30 C) in summer. Other than occasional winds and rain, Paris offers some of the most pleasant weather of any capital in Europe, with an average temperature of 53 F (12 C).
Paris is at its best in springtime and fall, even if it is sometimes a little wet. May, June, September and October are terrific times to visit Paris because the weather’s more pleasant than during the heat of summer, the French are likely at work and everything is open and geared up for tourists. In addition, you’ll avoid the peak crowds.
In August, Parisians flee for the beaches to the west and south and many restaurateurs lock up and leave town, too. But this is changing rapidly, and you’ll find considerably more places open in summer than even a decade ago. Things can get a bit hectic around Bastille Day and towards the end of the year, so reservations at this time are a good idea.
