1st Arrondissement (Louvre) in October

April through June offers perfect weather without peak summer crowds. The Tuileries blooms with tulips in April, and café terraces reopen after winter hibernation. September and October bring mild temperatures and golden light that photographers dream about. But here's the reality: the Louvre stays crowded year-round. Book timed entry tickets online, always. Summer means longer museum hours but also means fighting for shade in the Tuileries. Winter strips away the fair-weather tourists — you'll have the Louvre's Egyptian wing nearly to yourself on a January Tuesday. Christmas markets fill Place Vendôme in December, and luxury shops extend their hours for holiday shopping. Avoid the first Sunday of each month when the Louvre offers free admission to EU residents — the lines stretch around the building.