shorsman

Due to scheduling problems with a college student, the only week we can travel is the first week of August. We would really love to go to Paris, but have been told this is an awful time to go -- many shops and restaurants are closed and it is very crowded. Has anyone traveled at that time who would give me his/her opinion? Are the tourist places (Louvre, Eiffel Tower, etc) closed?

Is there anywhere in Europe anyone would recommend going that week?

Thanks!

Weadles

I'm absolutely amazed if you're hearing that Paris is crowded in August. We've been several times at that time of year, and always found it relatively EMPTY. August is the month of the French annual vacation, and many Parisians leave for family trips. Yes, many restaurants and shops are closed, but there are so many others open for business that it's been a non-issue. Go, and have a great time!

StCirq

Things have changed rather radically in Paris in the past decade with respect to August. It is no longer true that it is deserted in August. While it's true that a lot of Parisians leave the city that month and some restaurants and shops are closed, it probably won't even be noticeable to you. Certainly the major tourist sites will be open.

ira

Hi shor

It's not the best time of year, but well worthwhile.

You might want to consider Denmark or Sweden as well.

cailin

the only people in Paris in August are the American tourists and the locals whose livelihoods depend on tourism for their income! All the normal tourist attractions are open as usual, as are restaurants, bars, etc.

Cicerone

I disagree that all restaurants and stores will be open. Many restaurants close for all or part of August, especially the better non-tourist ones. You should be able to find adequate substitutes, but if your heart is set on a particular restaurant, check to make sure it is open.

Also, there are some religious/public holidays in France in August on which major department stores and some smaller shops will be closed. In particular the feast of the Assumption which this year is August 15, which is a Sunday. I think you will find few shops open that day (Sunday is kind of limited shopping anyway). You may also find that the large department stores closed and some smaller shops and restaurants will also close on the day before (Saturday) to give employees a longer holiday.

Museums and attractions like the Eiffel Tower are open regular hours, subject to any public holidays which affect opening hours. Check the websites of the various museums or attractions. Things will be crowded, but in my experience in going to Pairs in other months as well, not really much more so than other months.

eschule

what about the first few days of September? I will be there 9/1-5. Are things back to normal?

Patrick

Because we usually go to Europe for at least a couple months at a time and usually fly home from Paris, we find ourselves staying there in August quite a lot. I think it's fine. Yes, it can be hot -- and I'd never consider NOT having an air-conditioned hotel or apt. True a few restaurants are closed (although last year we were there the last week of July and first week of August and found several closed in July to be reopening the second week of August -- so go figure).
But trust me, you won't find the city "deserted" or "empty" and you won't find any major museums or tourist spots closed. In fact, you may hardly notice any difference at all, except that the evenings are really busy with people out enjoying the pleasant night air on the streets and at the cafes -- usually getting out from their hot apartments.
I'm not much of a shopper, but if you are, there are UNBELIEVABLE sales on clothing as they totally clear out the summer merchandise and prepare for the fall and winter stuff.

StCirq

eschule: Things are very much back to "normal" in early September after the "rentrée." But really, most people wouldn't notice much of a difference between August and September. It's a major city with a lot going on and a lot of people, and tourists, at any time of year.