🍂 Paris in October 2026 : complete guide to events, festivals and exhibitions

Visiting Paris in October is a unique experience. The summer crowds are gone, temperatures remain pleasant, and the French capital comes alive with festivals, exhibitions and autumn traditions. In this guide, find out what to see, do and book to make the most of your October stay in Paris.

📍 Why choose Paris in October?

October is one of the most pleasant months to visit Paris. The climate oscillates between 12 and 18°C, the autumn light sublimates the monuments, and the parks are decked out in golden hues. What’s more, the city offers a rich cultural program of contemporary art, jazz music, popular traditions and gourmet delights.

🍇 The Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival

An emblematic autumn event, the Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre usually takes place around the second week of October. It celebrates the Parisian vineyards located in the heart of the Montmartre hilltop. Parades, concerts, wine tastings and street entertainment transform the district into a huge popular festival.

💡 Where to stay: if you want to stay in the bohemian mood, the ‘Terrass” Hotel Montmartre offers elegant rooms and a rooftop with a view over the whole of Paris.

✨ Personal experience: on my last visit, I followed the parade to the Sacré-Cœur, glass of mulled wine in hand. The convivial atmosphere and traditional songs gave the impression of being in a festive village rather than in the middle of Paris.

🎷 Jazz sur Seine: when Paris vibrates to the sound of jazz

From October 10 to 25, the Jazz sur Seine festival takes over twenty or so Parisian clubs. Over 450 artists perform in iconic venues such as the Sunset Sunside and the Duc des Lombards.

💡 Prices: concerts range from €10 to €35, depending on artist and venue. The festival pass allows access to several concerts at reduced prices.

🎶 Personal experience: one evening, I discovered a jazz fusion trio in a small Saint-Germain cellar. The intimate atmosphere, the candles, and the closeness with the musicians left me with an unforgettable memory.

🎨 Le Salon d’Automne on the Champs-Élysées

Held annually on the Champs-Élysées avenue, the Salon d’Automne (October 29 – November 2) brings together over 1,000 contemporary artists. Painting, sculpture, photography, installations… the aisles showcase the diversity of today’s creativity.

💡 Where to stay nearby: to stay in the heart of the avenue, the prestigious Hôtel Napoléon Paris provides walking access to the Arc de Triomphe and luxury boutiques.

💡 Entrance fee: around €10, free for students on certain days.

🎨 Personal experience: I had the opportunity to chat with a Japanese artist exhibiting a light installation. It was fascinating to understand his creative process directly from him.

🍫 The Salon du Chocolat: a gourmet’s paradise

From October 29 to November 2, Porte de Versailles plays host to the Salon du Chocolat. Demonstrations, workshops, tastings and even a fashion show featuring chocolate dresses are on offer.

💡 Price: €14 admission for adults, €7 for children. Free for children under 3.

✨ Personal experience: during my visit, I tasted a pink pepper ganache and watched a chocolatier sculpt a chocolate Eiffel Tower. The sweet smell that perfumed the entire pavilion remains etched in my memory.

🏛️ Exhibitions and museums not to be missed

October is also the perfect month to explore our temporary exhibitions:

• Musée d’Orsay: exhibition “Sargent: The Parisian Years”.
• Musée Picasso: “Revoir Picasso”, a unique retrospective.
• Maison Européenne de la Photographie: contemporary photographers (~€14).
• Maison Gainsbourg: immersion in the artist’s world.

🎫 Book your tickets on GetYourGuide to avoid the queues.

🎃 Halloween in Paris

At the end of October, the city is decked out in Halloween colors. Disneyland Paris park offers special parades, while some museums and cinemas, such as the Grand Rex, organize spooky evenings. Bars in the Marais and Bastille areas also compete in decorations and costume parties.

💡 Tip: book your tickets in advance, especially for family events like at the Jardin d’Acclimatation.

🌿 Autumn strolls in Parisian parks

October is the perfect time to stroll through Parisian gardens: Jardin du Luxembourg, Jardin des Tuileries, or the Bois de Boulogne. The autumn colors create an idyllic backdrop for souvenir photos.

🗂️ Practical tips for organizing your stay

• Reservations: book your tickets online to avoid queues (especially for museums and trade fairs).
• Weather: bring layers of clothing and a compact umbrella.
• Transportation: take the metro and consider the Navigo Découverte pass (€22.80 / week).
• Clock: changeover to winter time on the last Sunday in October.

❓ Quick FAQ

👉 How expensive is Paris in October?

Accommodation prices drop after the summer, especially on weekdays. Event tickets range from €10 to €20 on average.

👉 Do I need to book exhibitions?

Yes, especially for Picasso and Orsay. Queues can exceed 1 hour without a ticket.

👉 What’s the best time of day to visit?

Mornings are quiet for museums. Evenings are ideal for concerts and festivals.

✅ Conclusion

Paris in October offers the perfect mix of culture, gastronomy and tradition. Between the Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre, the Salon du Chocolat, Jazz sur Seine and Halloween, there’s something for everyone. Add to this the major exhibitions and the beauty of the autumn parks, and October proves to be one of the best months to discover the capital.

Book your tickets now, prepare your strolls and let yourself be seduced by the autumnal magic of Paris 🍁.