What to Wear in Paris in October (Recommended Outfits + Packing List)

If there’s one thing to check for while packing for a trip, it is definitely the weather. If you are planning a trip to Paris in October and you still wonder what to pack: this guide will help you.

But first, I suggest we take a closer look at the month of October in Paris.

👉 For those who plan on visiting Paris during any other time of the year, I recommend this guide on Paris weather throughout the year.

 

Is October a Good Time to Visit Paris?

the tuileries garden in October
Paris in October (Juanedc from Zaragoza, España, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons)

There are several benefits to visiting Paris in October!

First, there are usually fewer tourists in October than at any other time of the year. Unlike August, most shops and points of interest are still open in October, making it one of the most ideal times of the year to visit Paris.

In early October, the temperatures remain pleasant shifting between 15°C and 18°C (59 °F and 64.,4 °F.) Despite the overcast weather, you will enjoy about 4 to 5 hours of sunshine a day.

In mid-October, fall begins to set in as temperatures progressively drop. This is also the time of the year leaves begin turning to a lovely shade of red, offering a beautiful setting for your souvenir photo.

Although Paris can have light showers in October, they’re nothing to worry about, as they will not disturb your stay.

In short, October is a good time to visit Paris because of the relaxing setting and pleasant temperatures.

 

Understanding the Weather in Paris in October – Average Temperature and Rainfall

Here is a table that will give you an overview of the average weather in Paris according to the dates of your stay.

Time periodAverage temperature at 9 a.m.Average temperature at 12 p.m.Average temperature at 6 p.m.Daily average rainfall
Early October (from 10/01 to 10/10)15°C (59 °F)18°C (64.4 °F)16°C (60.8 °F)3.1 mm: Light to moderate rain 🌧
Mid-October (from 10/10 to 10/20)13°C (55.4 °F)16°C (60.8 °F)14°C (57.2 °F)1.4 mm: Light to moderate rain 🌦
Late October (from 10/20 to 10/31)12°C (53.6 °F)15°C (59 °F)13°C (55.4 °F)1.5 mm: Continuous light rain 🌦

 

What Time Does the Sun Rise and Set in Paris in October?

sunrise in paris

The length of daylight in October in Paris is approximately 10 hours and 50 minutes.

On average, the sun rises at around 8:11 a.m. and sets at 7:02 p.m. This time range offers plenty of time to enjoy the sun in the afternoon and have an early dinner.

Sunset lovers will especially enjoy this article on the most beautiful sunset spots in Paris to share a magical moment. 

 

How to Dress in Paris in October

luggage and clothes

Now that you know all about the weather in Paris in October, here are a few tips for putting together outfits according to the weather forecast during your stay.

 

☀️ When it’s sunny 

Pick rather light clothing and comfortable shoes, as these are the days you will be walking the most. Your comfort is essential!

If you’re chilly, I recommend you carry a lightweight jacket in your bag, or keep it around your waist so that it won’t take up too much space.

 

☁️ When it’s cloudy

Keep comfort in mind by picking clothes that can be layered. For example, you could wear a long-sleeved t-shirt or lightweight shirt under a jacket or cardigan.

For the bottom, I recommend you pick a rather comfortable pair of jeans that will keep you warm in the early evening.

 

🌧️ When it rains

Firstly, I recommend avoiding packing suede, or fabric shoes, which can be damaged when wet. Instead, you could opt for waterproof shoes to keep your feet dry.

I also recommend avoiding wearing pants that are too long, so they won’t get wet in the rain. Otherwise, rolling up the cuffs can help.

Lastly, I suggest you pack a hooded sweater to keep you dry during light showers.

💡 Please note: The single most important thing to pack for a trip to Paris in October is definitely an umbrella. I recommend carrying a folding compact umbrella in your bag no matter the weather. This will especially come in handy in case of a sudden light shower.

 

How NOT to Dress in Paris in October

Even though temperatures in October are still mild, keep in mind you will be traveling in the fall.

At this time of the year, I do not recommend packing shorts or tank tops to avoid catching a cold despite the mild early season temperatures.

Similarly, I do not recommend packing overly warm clothes such as heavy winter coats. Forget about winter jackets, and instead, pack a lightweight jacket.

 

How Not to Look Like a Tourist in Paris?

paris in black and white

If you want to blend in with the locals in Paris, I recommend dressing casual and elegant by picking neutral-tone clothing.

Yet, I recommend avoiding overly casual or sporty outfits, and instead pick tailored clothing and statement pieces.

 

Outfit Ideas to Visit Paris in October

If you are looking for inspiration on how to properly dress during your trip to Paris in October, take a look at this infographic and some of my outfit ideas.

outfits ideas for paris in october

 

What to Pack for a 1-Week Trip to Paris in October (The Complete List)

Let’s cut to the chase and go over the clothes, accessories, and shoes you need to pack for the perfect stay in Paris in October.

For women: 

  • Lightweight pants: a pair of canvas pants or a rolled up pair of jeans (to avoid getting the bottom wet)
  • Lightweight dresses or skirts: don’t forget to pack a pair of pantyhose (or more) to wear underneath
  • Lightweight tops: ¾ sleeve tops or thin tee-shirts to wear underneath a jacket
  • A lightweight jacket or cardigan: a denim jacket or wool knit cardigan to keep you warm in the early evening
  • Comfortable pairs of shoes: a casual pair of sneakers for every day and a pair of high heeled shoes for a night out

For men:

    • Lightweight pants: rolled up pairs of jeans or chino pants
    • Long sleeves tee-shirts or shirts
  • A lightweight jacket: a denim or cotton jacket
  • Comfortable pairs of shoes:  a casual pair of sneakers for every day and a dressy pair of shoes for a night out

As for the accessories:

  • A lightweight scarf
  • A folding compact umbrella

You might end up not needing them during your trip, but I recommend packing them for good measure.

 

What to Pack for Your Child for a 1-Week Trip to Paris in October (The Complete List)

Finally, let’s go over the clothes, accessories, and shoes you need to pack for your child for a trip to Paris in October.

  • Long pairs of pants: rolled up pairs of jeans or leggings
  • Long sleeves tops: sweatshirts or lightweight shirts to wear underneath a jacket
  • A lightweight jacket: a denim jacket or a cardigan (but not too warm!)
  • Comfortable pairs of shoes: one or two pairs of casual sneakers

Don’t forget to pack a scarf and an umbrella for your child as well in case of a sudden light shower or temperature drop.