What to do in Paris in August if you’re staying in town?

Paris is emptying out, but the city isn’t dying out. On the contrary, August is a rare time to enjoy the capital without stress or crowds. Here are 5 smart, chic ideas for an inspiring August in Paris – without a suitcase.

Take your time in a deserted (air-conditioned) museum

In August, some museums are more pleasant than ever. The crowds are fewer, the queues disappear, the halls breathe.
Among our favorites: the Musée Bourdelle (15th arrondissement), perfect for a cool stroll between monumental sculptures and a secret garden.

Another ideal address is the Musée Cernuschi, next door to the Parc Monceau, which specializes in Asian art.
Discreet air-conditioning, absolute calm, fascinating works.
Simple but effective luxury.

Chill out in style on the quays or at Paris Plages

Paris Plages is back every summer, but the key is to choose the right spot. Avoid peak hours and opt for mornings or early evenings.
At La Villette, supervised swimming is the perfect way to cool off without leaving the city.

On the right bank quays, between Pont Neuf and Bastille, the atmosphere becomes almost meditative.
Less animation, more golden light, and benches overlooking the Île Saint-Louis.

Hotel lunch on the terrace

In August, the palaces remain open… but empty. It’s the perfect time to try a chic, reasonably-priced terrace lunch, with no need for reservations.
Le Bauhinia at the Shangri-La, Bar Long at the Royal Monceau or Nonos at the Crillon welcome Parisians who have stayed in town, with impeccable service.

Add a chilled glass, an attentive waiter, and you’ve got your moment of urban elegance.

Explore a neighborhood by bike

Neighborhoods normally inaccessible suddenly become passable. The Marais finally breathes.
Montmartre rediscovers an almost village-like charm at dawn.
Even Saint-Germain, between 8 and 10 am, looks like a forgotten postcard.

Rent a bike or set off on foot, without a precise itinerary. Grab a coffee on an empty street. Enter an air-conditioned bookshop. Rediscover your city.

A cool evening on the rooftop

When the sun goes down, some rooftops reveal all their charm. Not the noisiest, nor the most touristy.
But those with a bit of distance and a lot of style.

We love: Forest on the roof of the Palais de Tokyo, Créatures at Galleries Lafayette Haussmann, and Le Perchoir Ménilmontant, always true to form.
Also worth a try: an aperitif at the top of the Terrass” Hôtel in the 18th arrondissement. View + light wind = perfect combo.

Paris in the summer, it’s an opportunity

Staying in Paris in August is almost a luxury. Less noise, less stress, more air, more space.
You don’t have to go far to feel somewhere else. Just slow down… and choose the right places.

For more ideas for quiet, stylish outings : Paris Select summer 2025 guide