best places to view fall foliage in paris

How come every time we get to a new season and I’m in Paris, I think that this is the one I prefer?!  Maybe I just love a change of seasons wherever I am, or maybe it really is that Paris is a beautiful city that sits well in all weathers.

Here we are in the fall and again the city is stunning.   It is certainly something to do with the wide, tree-lined avenues and the beautiful parks.

There is a sense of change in the air. There is a slight chill, pumpkin soup is on the stove, and the leaves are turning golden. It is such a beautiful time here and the perfect occasion to bundle up in a sweater and scarf and walk around Paris. The trees are magnificent! I’ve noted some of my favourite spots for taking pictures of Paris in the fall.

Any of the gardens in Paris are beautiful to visit, especially those with long rows of trees like the Tuileries or Luxembourg. Another hidden garden just by the Louvre is the Palais Royal. Half traditional French, and half modern, it is among my favourites. Covered walkways and cafes line the garden, a wonderful place to stop for a cup of tea.

A walk along the Seine river is always a good idea, particularly near the Notre Dame and the two islands. Make your way to Place Dauphine on Ile de la Cite to a triangular square lined with trees. In the evening, you might even see petanque being played. One of the boat cruises would be special as well.

Another place to enjoy the fall colours is on the Canal St Martin, where the reflections in the water are perfect.

There is such a sense of peace and beauty at Pere Lachaise cemetery.  The cemetery is well known for the many famous people who are buried here, and in the fall the walkways are covered in falling leaves, making a visit even better.

Place de Vosges might be one of my particular favorites. The changing leaves start to match the uniform bourgeois-style buildings that line the square. In the corner, you’ll find Victor Hugo’s apartment,  always worth a visit, then on for a hot chocolate or lunch at Carette.

The  Rodin museum gardens are also particularly enjoyable at this time of year.   Several of the most famous sculptures in the collection are outside in the gardens, making for a beautiful stroll especially in the fall. At the furthest point from the house in the gardens, there is a long rectangular reflection pool lined with sculpted shrubbery and trees, including what is called the garden gates.

Last but certainly not least, is the iconic view of the boulevards from the top of the Arc de Triomphe. This is impressive at any time of the year but there is something about autumn that makes it even more magnificent.  You just need the time (and the energy) to get to the top, but I promise you it is worth the effort!

Where are your favorite places to view fall foliage in Paris? Let us know in the comments below.