I have been to Paris once in the off season and didn't feel like it was overwhelmingly crowded at tourist sights.. I am going back with my parents and daughters and we will be in Paris from the 1st-6th of June and I have visions of the whole city being packed like a can of sardines.. Is it really going to be jam packed with people like I am imagining?
Posted by
San Francisco/Marin County
9436 posts
I've spent the month of June in Paris 6 times in the last 12 years and that has never been my experience. I didn't notice Paris getting crowded until after the middle of June. And then it was only at the top tourist sites. Can't say what this year will be like though.
Posted by
Olympia, WA, USA
6713 posts
Early June shouldn't be too crowded. Everyone will be in Normandy for the 70th anniversary of D-Day!
Posted by
Westford, MA
103 posts
The crowds impact shows up around mid June. Regardless, any great weather will have everyone outside!
I'd still plan seeing whatever major sights you wish to visit for first thing in morning when they open, or very late afternoon/early evening when there are less people at major sights. Not knowing everyone's capabilities you might consider long, lazy cafe/bistro lunches to get off your feet and to soak up the scene. Another great suggestion is shopping for food & wine goodies and going to the Parc du Champs for an evening picnic, enjoy the atmosphere, and watch the Eifel Tower illuminate.
Posted by
San Francisco/Marin County
9436 posts
A picnic is fun, I highly recommend the Luxembourg Gardens. My favorite place in Paris.
Posted by
OP
Fullerton, Ca, USA
87 posts
Thanks everybody :)
Im certain I will find something else to worry about. :)
Posted by
Tel Aviv
15781 posts
The only thing I noted in Paris in early June is that there are lots and lots of school field trips to museums. So if the Louvre is part of your plan, try to go on Wed or Fri when it's open until late, and don't get there before 4 p.m. The Orsay always seems to be crowded. In my opinion they just crammed too much into too small a space. So the best way to visit is to be there when they open and start on the top floor. Most people start at the ground floor and work their way up and the most popular works are on the 3rd floor.