What to eat in Paris in April: Seasonal delicacies
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Croissant & baguette tradition
Croissants in Paris are flaky, butter‑rich pastries, and the baguette tradition is a crusty, slow‑fermented loaf. Both anchor daily breakfasts and snacks. The best versions use high‑quality French butter and flour and are baked several times a day. Try them at award‑winning boulangerie Du Pain et des Idées, known for meticulous baking and a short morning queue.
Paris’s falafel is a staple of quick, filling street food, especially in the historic Jewish quarter of the Marais. A pita stuffed with crisp chickpea balls, salad, and tahini suits vegetarians and meat‑eaters alike and is inexpensive for central Paris. L’As du Fallafel on Rue des Rosiers is a long‑standing favourite; expect a takeaway line but fast service.
In Paris, savoury Breton‑style galettes made from buckwheat flour are filled with ham, cheese, or egg, while sweet wheat‑flour crêpes carry toppings like sugar, lemon, or Nutella. They work for any season, from a quick winter snack to a late‑night bite. Crêperie Josselin in Montparnasse is known for generous, crisp‑edged galettes in a cosy room, with prices that suit most budgets.
Duck confit consists of duck leg slow-cooked in its own fat until tender, then crisped before serving. It is commonly paired with potatoes or lentils and remains a staple of winter menus across Paris.
Oysters are traditionally eaten during months ending in “R,” making February part of peak oyster season. They are typically served raw with lemon or mignonette sauce. Paris brasseries prominently feature oysters throughout winter.
Steak frites consists of grilled steak served with French fries and often a simple pan sauce. While available year-round, it remains a dependable winter mainstay in Paris brasseries.
April brings Paris to life with cherry blossoms and vibrant markets. Mild showers are common, adding to the city’s charm. Easter often falls in April, bringing closures or special hours at some attractions. Parks and outdoor cafés buzz with activity.
Pro tips for visiting Paris in April
Easter may affect opening hours at attractions; check schedules and book ahead for special events.
Cherry blossoms peak mid-month; visit Parc de Sceaux or Champ de Mars for the best displays.
Dress in layers, as mornings can be crisp and afternoons warm.
Outdoor markets and café terraces are vibrant—join locals for lunch breaks in the parks.
Paris in April at a glance
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Weather
Maximum temperature: 16°C
Minimum temperature: 8°C
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Daylight
Around 13 hours 46 minutes of daylight
Sunrise: 6:57am
Sunset: 8:43pm
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Key events
Foire du Trône (Paris spring funfair), Hanami Cherry Blossom Festival at Parc de Sceaux, Grand Opening – Versailles Musical Fountains, Journées Européennes des Métiers d’Art (European Artisan Days)
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Crowds
Balanced crowds, with manageable queues and a mix of tourists and local visitors in the city.
Europe’s largest funfair takes over Pelouse de Reuilly in Bois de Vincennes for about eight weeks. With more than 300 rides and food stands, it is a major draw for families and teenagers, especially evenings and weekends. Entry to the grounds is free, but rides and attractions are paid individually.
In mid April (April 14–16), Parc de Sceaux’s large cherry orchard usually reaches peak bloom and hosts a Japanese‑style hanami weekend. Families and enthusiasts picnic under dense pink blossoms, with occasional music and cultural demonstrations. Entry to the park is free, and RER B links it with central Paris.
Urban Art Fair at Carreau du Temple brings together galleries specialising in street and urban art. Over four days you can see works by graffiti pioneers and emerging artists, attend talks, and sometimes watch live painting. It targets collectors and curious visitors and can make the surrounding Marais streets livelier at night.
Rhum Fest Paris at Parc Floral is dedicated to rum, with producers from around the world offering tastings, workshops, and talks. Visitors receive a glass and can sample widely, so public transport is recommended. It suits spirits enthusiasts and often sells out weekend slots, particularly afternoon sessions.
Foire de Paris is a huge trade and lifestyle fair at Porte de Versailles, covering home design, gadgets, crafts, and food halls. It includes the Lépine invention contest and dozens of regional stands. Expect long days available for browsing and heavy traffic on exhibition days, especially on weekends and public holidays.
On April 1, the château of Versailles begins its Grandes Eaux season, when fountains in the formal gardens run to baroque music on specific days. Opening day sees the water features in full operation. Tickets are separate from palace entry and gardens can feel busy, particularly on sunny weekends.
Journées Européennes des Métiers d’Art (European Artisan Days)
During this week, artisans across Paris open their workshops to visitors, showing jewellery, ceramics, instrument‑making, and more. Many demonstrations are free, though some require online sign‑up. It is useful if you are curious about craft behind French luxury and like exploring less‑touristed streets.
One of the world’s largest marathons, the Paris Marathon starts on the Champs‑Élysées and follows a 42.2 km route past major sights before finishing near Avenue Foch. Roads along the course close for much of the day. Runners register far in advance; spectators gather at key points like Bastille and near the Eiffel Tower.
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