While tourist numbers in Paris remained relatively stable in June, intense heatwaves at the start of July led to a considerable drop in visitors to the French capital, according to the Paris je t’aime tourist office.
The situation in Paris remained comparatively stable throughout June, with an estimated 3.8 million tourists visiting the capital, with numbers being “slightly favorable” in comparison with 2025. Overnight stays saw a 1.4 percent increase on the same time last year, during the first heatwave, which peaked between the 20th and 28th of June. However, the second heatwave, which peaked a week later, between the 7th and 13th of July, resulted in a 7.2 percent decrease in overall attendance.
Residents Flee Paris as Soon as Possible
The report indicates that higher temperatures are hastening the traditional summer exodus of Parisian residents for their holidays. This, however, should be tempered with caution, as the final weekend of June saw a reduction in overall numbers due to the cancellation of several major events, including Solidays and the Pride March.
Meanwhile, new bathing places have cropped up in response to the heatwaves. In 2025, 100,000 people swam in the Seine, including 13 percent overseas visitors. The Canal Saint Martin’s opening for swimming has so far seen a significant rise in both local and international visitors, generating over 1,300 online articles this year alone.
Positive Outlook for Autumn
Looking ahead, the outlook for the Paris region remains positive, with an estimated 3.2 million visitors set to arrive in the capital between August and October, with air travel bookings rising slightly in comparison with 2025.
Returning students are expected to have a significant impact on the Parisian tourism sector, fueled by a dynamic cultural and event-driven calendar. The concerts by PLK, Jay-Z, and Celine Dion, who is set to hold several shows at the Plenitude Arena, will also contribute to the increase. Furthermore, major professional meetings due to be held in October are projected to raise both business tourism and air arrivals by 5.8 percent in comparison with 2025.
While early summer heatwaves saw dramatic reductions in the number of tourists, Paris je t’aime has been quick to respond, promoting the city’s culture and new developments, with positive results so far.
