10 Best things to do in Paris this summer

Enjoy an Open-Air Cinema Experience

Watching a movie under the stars is a great way to enjoy a summer evening in Paris. From 22 July to 16 August 2026, La Villette hosts its popular open-air cinema in the Parc de la Villette. The Musée du quai Branly – Jacques Chirac combines cinema with its Summer Gardens from 9 July to 2 August 2026, while Ciné-Jardin brings screenings to different gardens from 20 August to 5 September 2026.

For the latest information on programmes, screening times, prices and booking requirements, check the official websites of the different locations before your visit.

How to get there ? 

For the Musée du quai Branly-Jacques Chirac: Hop-off at stop 9 Tour Eiffel

La Vallée Village – The world's best brands at irresistible prices

Just outside Paris, discover a shopping destination where fashion and luxury come together at exceptional prices. Located only 40 minutes from the city centre and 5 minutes from the Disney® Parks, La Vallée Village is home to more than 120 leading French and international brands in a charming open-air setting. From luxury labels and premium ready-to-wear to trendy accessories and children's fashion, enjoy reduced prices on your favourite brands.

Make the most of your visit with a range of premium services, including the Shopping Express shuttle from Paris, concierge services, free Wi-Fi, a VIP lounge, Hands-Free Shopping, personal shopping, miles rewards and tax-free shopping.

As a Tootbus customer, you can enjoy exclusive benefits available on your tickets or in your confirmation email. Visit the official La Vallée Village website to find out more.

Explore Paris by Bike

With its wide boulevards, riverside paths and charming neighbourhoods, Paris is a great city to explore by bike. Rent a bike to follow the cycle paths along the Seine, discover the Canal Saint-Martin or explore some of the capital's most iconic neighbourhoods. You can also bring your own bike and enjoy a leisurely ride through Paris's parks and streets.

Relax at Paris Plages

Every summer, Paris Plages brings a holiday atmosphere to the capital, transforming several locations across the city into lively spots where visitors can relax by the water and enjoy a range of activities.

From lounging along the banks of the Seine to enjoying water-based activities at the Bassin de la Villette, there are plenty of ways to make the most of this seasonal event. Discover our complete guide to Paris Plage to find out more about the programme, activities and different locations.

How to get there ?

Hop-off at stop 3 Notre-Dame

Enjoy Paris's Most Beautiful Parks and Gardens

Paris's parks and gardens offer a welcome escape from the city's busy streets during the summer, whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll, a picnic spot or a shady place to relax. The Jardin du Luxembourg is ideal for a peaceful walk around its famous pond, while the Jardin des Tuileries offers beautifully landscaped gardens between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde. For a different atmosphere, head to the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, known for its rolling landscapes, lake and impressive views.

For more green spaces to explore, discover our guide to the best parks and gardens in Paris.

Discover Paris's Landmarks by Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

See the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre-Dame and the Champs-Élysées without having to plan every step of your itinerary. A hop-on hop-off bus makes it easy to move between Paris's most famous landmarks while taking in the city from the top deck.

The principle is simple: get off whenever you want to visit a landmark, explore the area and hop back on when you're ready to continue. You can do this as many times as you like during the validity of your ticket, giving you the freedom to create your own itinerary and spend as much time as you wish at each stop.

Discover all the Paris sightseeing bus tours and find the best way to explore the capital this summer.

Visit Paris's Must-See Museums

When the summer heat gets too much, Paris's museums offer the perfect opportunity to cool off while discovering some of the world's greatest works of art.

The Louvre Museum is a must for first-time visitors, with its vast collections spanning thousands of years of art and history, including the famous Mona Lisa. For a different experience, head to the Musée d'Orsay, housed in a former railway station and renowned for its exceptional collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces.

Whether you're passionate about art or simply looking for a cultural break during your visit, adding one of Paris's iconic museums to your summer itinerary is always a good idea.

Discover a Family-Friendly Exhibition

Looking for something to do with the whole family? The LEGO exhibition Bricks of Wonder is a fun way to combine creativity, art and play during your summer in Paris. Visitors can admire impressive LEGO creations and discover how the iconic bricks can be transformed into detailed works of art.

The exhibition is on display until 6 September 2026, making it a great option for families visiting Paris during the summer holidays. 

Take the Helm on the Seine

Looking for a more unusual way to enjoy Paris from the water? With a licence-free boat rental, you can take the helm yourself and explore the Seine at your own pace, without needing a boating licence. Akwa offers several types of boats, including models with an integrated plancha for a fun meal on the water, as well as simpler boats for a more traditional outing. Marin d'Eau Douce is another option, with licence-free boat rentals available from La Villette and several locations around the Paris region. Whether you're looking for a relaxed trip or a more original experience with family or friends, renting a boat is a fun way to enjoy a different side of Paris during the summer. 

For more information about the available boats, locations, prices and booking conditions, check the official websites before your visit.

Admire Paris from a Rooftop

For a different perspective on the capital, head to one of Paris's rooftop terraces and enjoy the city from above. With panoramic views, a drink and the Paris skyline as your backdrop, a rooftop is a great place to spend a summer afternoon or evening.

Kinugawa Rive Gauche offers a stylish setting with views over the city, while the Fuga Rooftop at Terrass' Hotel is a great spot to admire the Paris skyline from Montmartre. Whether you're looking for a place to enjoy a meal, have a drink or simply take in the view, these rooftops offer a memorable way to experience Paris during the summer.

How to get there ? 

For the Fuga Rooftop : Hop-off at stop 7 Champs Elysées - Arc

Need some inspiration for exploring Paris?

From outdoor cinema and summer festivals to museums, parks and iconic landmarks, Paris offers countless ways to enjoy the warmer months. For more inspiration, discover our article on Summer in Paris: The Best Kids' Activities, then explore our Paris hop-on hop-off bus tours to discover the capital's must-see landmarks at your own pace.