What Happens in Paris During Public Holidays?

What happens in Paris during public holidays?
Public holidays in Paris do not mean the city shuts down—but they do change its rhythm. Some places close, others become busier than usual, and the atmosphere often shifts from “working city” to celebration, reflection, or relaxed weekend mode.

This guide explains exactly what happens in Paris during public holidays, what stays open, what closes, how transport is affected, and whether visiting Paris on a public holiday is a problem—or actually a hidden advantage.

First: Do Public Holidays Shut Down Paris?

No. This is the biggest misconception.

Paris during public holidays is:

• Quieter in business areas

• Busier in tourist zones

• Fully functional for visitors

Paris does not resemble a ghost city on public holidays—especially not in central areas.

What Usually Stays Open on Public Holidays

Tourists are often surprised by how much remains open.

Almost Always Open

• Major museums and monuments (some exceptions)

• Restaurants and cafés in tourist areas

• Bakeries (often morning hours)

• Supermarkets in central neighborhoods

• Public transport (with reduced schedules)

If you’re sightseeing, you’ll still have plenty to do.

What May Close or Have Limited Hours

This is where planning matters.

Often Closed or Reduced

• Government offices

• Banks

• Post offices

• Small local shops

• Some neighborhood restaurants

Closures are more noticeable outside tourist areas.

Museums on Public Holidays: Open or Closed?

Most major museums in Paris stay open on public holidays—and some are even busiest on these days.

However:

• A few museums close on specific holidays (like May 1st)

• Some close one regular weekday regardless of holidays

Always check individual museum schedules if visiting on a holiday.

Restaurants and Cafés: What Changes?

Tourist Areas

• Largely unaffected

• Plenty of options

• Sometimes busier than usual

Local Neighborhoods

• More closures

• Fewer choices

• Earlier closing times

If food matters a lot that day, eat earlier or stay central.

Public Transport During Public Holidays

Transport runs—but differently.

What to Expect

• Metro, buses, and RER still operate

• Reduced frequency

• Later start in the morning on some lines

It’s reliable enough for sightseeing, but:

• Expect slightly longer waits

• Plan a bit more buffer time

Paris does not stop moving on holidays.

Streets and Atmosphere: What It Feels Like

This is where public holidays can be special.

Paris on a public holiday often feels:

• More relaxed

• Less rushed

• More pedestrian-friendly

Many locals:

• Walk instead of commute

• Spend time with family

• Visit parks and cafés

The city breathes differently—and many visitors love this.

Are Public Holidays More Crowded for Tourists?

Yes, in specific places.

Expect crowds at:

• Major landmarks

• Parks (if weather is good)

• Shopping areas

• Popular viewpoints

But:

• Business districts are quieter

• Residential streets feel calm

Crowds shift—they don’t explode everywhere.

Major Public Holidays That Feel Different

Some holidays noticeably affect the city.

May 1st (Labour Day)

• Most closures

• Limited shopping

• Some transport adjustments

July 14th (Bastille Day)

• Big celebrations

• Parades and fireworks

• Very busy central areas

Christmas & New Year

• Festive atmosphere

• Shorter shop hours

• Restaurants need reservations

These days require extra planning, but they can be memorable.

Shopping on Public Holidays in Paris

Shopping is possible—but limited.

• Big department stores: often open

• Small boutiques: often closed

• Supermarkets: limited hours

If shopping is a priority, check hours in advance.

Is Visiting Paris on a Public Holiday a Bad Idea?

Not at all.

It can be a great experience if:

• You focus on sightseeing

• You enjoy a slower pace

• You don’t rely on offices or banks

It’s less ideal if:

• You need administrative services

• You want very specific local restaurants

• You plan heavy shopping

Common Tourist Mistakes on Public Holidays

Avoid these:

• Assuming everything is closed

• Not checking museum hours

• Planning tight schedules

• Waiting until late for meals

Public holidays reward flexibility.

A Smart Public Holiday Strategy

Do this:

• Sightsee early

• Eat lunch earlier than usual

• Focus on landmarks and walks

• Use cafés as anchors

• Avoid administrative errands

Paris works best when you follow its holiday rhythm.

What Locals Do (And You Can Copy)

On public holidays, Parisians:

• Walk more

• Sit longer in cafés

• Visit parks

• Avoid rushing

If you mirror that pace, the city feels welcoming instead of inconvenient.

Final Answer: What Happens in Paris During Public Holidays?

During public holidays in Paris:

• The city stays active

• Tourist attractions mostly remain open

• Transport runs with reduced schedules

• Some local businesses close

• The atmosphere becomes calmer and more relaxed

Public holidays don’t shut Paris down—they change its tempo.

If you adapt your plans, visiting Paris on a public holiday can feel less stressful, more atmospheric, and surprisingly enjoyable.