The best things to do in Paris in August

Paris_in_august

15 favorite things to in Paris in August

There’s a distinct rhythm to Paris in August. The bustling avenues slow down, the golden hour lingers just a little longer, and the city’s parks turn into sun-dappled living rooms.

While some say the city sleeps during late summer, the truth is quite the opposite—Paris simply changes its outfit. Between pop-up open-air festivals, breezy river cruises, and relaxed terrace culture, visiting now offers a rare, magical glimpse of the capital at its most leisurely. Here is everything you shouldn’t miss during an August getaway to Paris.

River cruise on the Seine by Bateaux-Mouches Paris

River cruise

Discover the City of Light from a captivating new perspective with Bateaux Mouches®, the legendary reference for river cruises along the Seine. Step aboard one of their promenade boats and take the time to explore Paris differently, gliding smoothly past the historic heart of the capital along its most beautiful avenue.

During this 1-hour-and-10-minute guided tour, you’ll enjoy insightful commentary as you take in breathtaking views of Paris’s most iconic waterfront landmarks—including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Conciergerie, and the Musée d’Orsay. It’s the ultimate way to relax and marvel at the city’s timeless architecture right from the water!

Ticket for the Ballon de Paris Generali

the Ballon de Paris

Take to the skies and experience Paris from a whole new perspective aboard the Generali tethered balloon! Located in the leafy Parc André Citroën in the 15th arrondissement, the world’s largest tethered balloon lifts up to 30 passengers 150 meters into the air for a thrilling 10-to-12-minute flight.

Soar high above the city to enjoy an extraordinary 360-degree panoramic view of the entire capital and its iconic landmarks. Free for children under 3, book your tickets at preferential rates on Funbooker to elevate your Parisian adventure!

Ticket for the Parc Zoologique de Paris

Parc Zoologique

Embark on a world tour of animal biodiversity right in the heart of Paris! Spanning 14 hectares, the Parc Zoologique de Paris is home to over 3,000 animals and 255 species, including majestic lions, jaguars, giraffes, penguins, and white rhinoceroses.

Journey through five distinct biozones, traveling from Madagascar and Patagonia to Africa, Amazonia-Guyana, and Europe. Along the way, take time to observe wildlife in natural habitats, watch live animal feedings, and relax at Les Clairières—a dedicated family area featuring a large picnic spot, a barefoot trail, and fun play modules for kids.

Ticket for the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris

Eiffel Tower

Admire the City of Light from the top of Paris’s most famous landmark! Take the elevator up the Eiffel Tower to take in breathtaking panoramic views of the French capital at your own pace.

From this extraordinary vantage point—the highest in the city—you’ll easily spot iconic sights, including the historic facade of the Louvre, the sleek skyscrapers of La Défense, the Centre Pompidou, and the gleaming white domes of Sacré-Cœur. Don’t miss walking across the thrilling glass floor on the first level and exploring the engaging activities on the second floor for an iconic Parisian experience you’ll never forget.

Guided tour "Notre-Dame: the mysteries of reconstruction"

guided tour

Go behind the scenes of one of history’s greatest restoration projects with an exclusive 1.5-hour outdoor guided tour around Notre-Dame de Paris. Step into the fascinating post-fire investigation following the 2019 blaze, and discover the saved treasures, unexpected archaeological finds, and extraordinary French craftsmanship that brought this iconic jewel back to life.

A must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts, this exterior walk shines a spotlight on the master artisans and traditional trades involved in the cathedral’s rebirth.

Ticket for the Aura Invalides immersive experience in Paris 7th

immersive experience

As evening falls over Paris, step inside the majestic Dôme des Invalides for Aura Invalides, an extraordinary immersive experience offered exclusively after dark. This breathtaking night spectacle combines captivating orchestral music, vibrant video mapping, and dynamic light effects that dramatically illuminate and sublime the awe-inspiring architecture of one of the city’s most famous monuments.

Let yourself be swept away on a journey through time, tracing pivotal moments in French history—from the dramatic fervor of the French Revolution to the splendor of the Belle Époque and the quiet resilience of World War II. It is a mesmerizing, sensory-filled evening that reveals the rich heritage of the Dôme des Invalides in a truly magical new light.

Tickets for Aquaboulevard in Paris

aquaboulevard

Dive into fun and relaxation right in the heart of Paris at Aquaboulevard, Europe’s largest urban water park! With water and air maintained at a balmy 29°C year-round, this aquatic paradise offers 7,000 m² of thrills across both indoor and seasonal outdoor zones, featuring two wave pools, counter-current rivers, and 11 giant slides. From swinging off a Tarzan rope to exploring a life-size whale slide designed for younger visitors, there is nonstop excitement for all ages.

Looking to unwind? Soak in the indoor and outdoor hot tubs equipped with massage jets, or kick back on the 4,000 m² fine-sand beach complete with Mauritian-style thatched huts during the warmer months. Whether you’re chasing high-energy splashes or sunny poolside relaxation, Aquaboulevard promises an unforgettable getaway where you’re guaranteed to get wet!

Disneyland® and Walt Disney Studios

Disneyland

Step into a fairytale world at Disneyland Paris, where timeless Disney classics and epic Star Wars legends come alive. From floating through “it’s a small world” to blasting off on Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain, unforgettable thrills and seasonal magic await at every turn. Explore themed shops packed with Disney, Pixar, and Star Wars treasures to take a piece of the dream home.

Ready for the ultimate adventure? Grab your 1-day / 1-park ticket here or double the fun with a 2-day / 2-park ticket here!

Sacré-Cœur guided tour: deciphering a symbol of Montmartre

guided tour

Uncover the hidden side of Sacré-Cœur on a captivating 1.5-hour guided tour through the historic heart of Montmartre! Designed for lovers of secret history and urban mysteries, this unique walk goes beyond the postcard views to reveal the architectural secrets, forgotten anecdotes, and historical controversies behind Paris’s iconic hilltop basilica.

Following a complete loop that takes you all the way to the historic Church of Saint-Pierre, your guide will offer a fresh perspective on this famous landmark while you soak in exceptional panoramic views over the entire city. It’s the ultimate way to experience a classic Parisian site off the beaten path!

Ticket to Château de Versailles from Paris

castle

Discover the opulence and grandeur of the Château de Versailles on an unforgettable royal day trip from Paris with Tootbus. Travel in complete comfort aboard a cozy coach—equipped with spacious seating and warm blankets in the winter—as you set off to immerse yourself in France’s fascinating history.

Your ticket offers seamless round-trip transport, entrance, and a dedicated audio guide for approximately four hours of iconic exploration. Marvel at the breathtaking main Palace, wander through the legendary Gardens and Park, and explore the enchanting Trianon estate, including the Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, and the Queen’s Hamlet. Experience one of the most magnificent palaces in the world with ultimate ease!

Virtual reality guided tour of the Louvre

Virtual reality

Travel back through over 650 years of history with a unique outdoor tour of the Louvre that combines live expert guiding with immersive virtual reality! Journey from the 13th to the late 19th century to witness the palace’s incredible evolution—from its origins as a medieval fortress to the bustling Renaissance district and the lost Palais des Tuileries.

By exploring outside, you’ll directly compare today’s iconic landmarks with their historical past in real time. With an intimate group size capped at just 10 participants, your guide is always on hand to answer questions, making this interactive time-travel experience a fun, memorable highlight for friends and family alike!

Dinner and show at Paradis Latin in Paris

dinner and show at Paradis Latin

Experience the magic of Parisian cabaret at Le Paradis Latin with L’Oiseau Paradis, a breathtaking show directed and choreographed by renowned artist Kamel Ouali. Over the course of 1.5 hours, an extraordinary ensemble of dancers, singers, acrobats, and fantastical creatures take the stage in mesmerizing tableaux that combine humor, sensuality, cutting-edge technology, and flamboyant costumes.

Conceived as a true homage to French craftsmanship and artistic excellence, this immersive spectacle is paired with exceptional dining options, featuring three distinct dinner tiers tailored to suit every budget while delivering an unforgettable night out in the City of Light.

Bike tour & tasting: Marais gourmet

Bike tour

Pedal like a local through the historic heart of Paris on a three-hour guided bike tour that pairs famous sights with authentic local flavors. Starting in the trendy 3rd arrondissement, this small-group, English-guided excursion takes you on classic bicycles through the charming streets of the Marais and beyond. Take in centuries of rich history as you coast past iconic landmarks like the Centre Pompidou, Place des Vosges, the Louvre, and Notre-Dame. To top off your journey, enjoy gourmet tasting stops featuring fine cheeses, artisanal charcuterie, fresh bread, pastries, and rich chocolates.

Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours 24h with cruise

Big Bus tour

Climb aboard one of Paris’s famous open-top red double-decker buses and discover the capital’s greatest treasures at your own effortless pace. With the complete freedom of a hop-on, hop-off pass, you can seamlessly curate your day—stepping off whenever inspiration strikes to explore world-renowned landmarks and jumping back on whenever you’re ready to glide to the next destination.

As you sit back and relax on the upper deck, enjoy breezy panoramic views of iconic stops like the Louvre, Notre-Dame, the Musée d’Orsay, the Champs-Élysées, and the soaring Eiffel Tower. Audio commentary available in six languages brings the surroundings to life, making this scenic ride one of the most relaxing and comprehensive ways to experience the magic of Paris.

Tickets for the Crazy Horse show in Paris 8th arrondissement

Crazy Horse show

Step into the legend of Parisian nightlife at Crazy Horse Paris, an iconic institution for over 74 years located just a stone’s throw from the Champs-Élysées. Renowned for its refined aesthetics, sensual choreography, and breathtaking light effects, this glamorous cabaret showcases world-class dancers in a mesmerizing celebration of art and elegance.

Recently renovated to feature a stylish new façade, an elegant lobby, and the signature Polly Underground bar, the venue pairs cutting-edge sound and lighting technology with timeless allure for a modern, fully immersive evening you won’t forget.