Weather
London
London is a year-round tourist center. Your best
chance of good weather is, of course, at the height of summer in July
and August, but there’s certainly no guarantee of sun even in those
months—plus it’s when you can expect the biggest crowds and highest
prices.
A typical London-area weather forecast for a summer day
predicts “scattered clouds with sunny periods and showers, possibly
heavy at times.” Summer temperatures seldom rise above 78 F (25 C) nor
drop below 35 F (2 C) in winter. London, being in one of the mildest
parts of the country, can be very pleasant in the spring and fall. Yes,
it rains, but you’ll rarely get a true downpour. Rains are heaviest in
November, when the city averages 2.5 inches. Few of its attractions
close or significantly reduce their opening hours in winter.
Paris
The
weather in Paris is fickle. Rain is more common than snow throughout
the winter, prompting longtime residents to complain about the
occasional bone-chilling dampness. What most likely chills a Parisian
heart are the winds that sweep along the city’s boulevards, channeled by
bordering buildings. In recent years, Paris has had about 15 snow days a
year, while there are only a few oppressively hot days (over 86 F, 30
C) in summer. Other than occasional winds and rain, Paris offers some of
the most pleasant weather of any capital in Europe, with an average
temperature of 53 F (12 C).
Paris is at its best in springtime
and fall, even if it is sometimes a little wet. May, June, September and
October are terrific times to visit Paris because the weather’s more
pleasant than during the heat of summer, the French are likely at work
and everything is open and geared up for tourists. In addition, you’ll
avoid the peak crowds.
In August, Parisians flee for the beaches
to the west and south and many restaurateurs lock up and leave town,
too. But this is changing rapidly, and you’ll find considerably more
places open in summer than even a decade ago. Things can get a bit
hectic around Bastille Day and towards the end of the year, so
reservations at this time are a good idea.
