Ascension Day 2026 in Paris: What to Expect, What’s Open, and Things to Do

Ascension Day is a national public holiday in France and in 2026 it falls on Thursday, May 14. As many locals take Friday off, the city often experiences a long weekend atmosphere. Paris does not shut down completely, but the rhythm of daily life changes. Some local shops and offices close, while major museums, monuments, and tourist services generally remain open. The city feels lively, especially around popular landmarks and parks.

What Changes in Paris on Ascension Day?

Public transport usually runs on a holiday schedule. Banks, post offices, and certain neighborhood stores may be closed. However, restaurants in central areas, cafés, major museums, and river cruises typically continue operating. Churches hold special religious services, and areas around important sites such as Notre Dame Cathedral can be busier than usual. Because it is a long weekend for many French residents, popular attractions may see higher visitor numbers.

Stroll Through Parks and Historic Neighborhoods

Ascension Day often brings pleasant spring weather. Many visitors and locals take advantage of this by spending time outdoors. The Luxembourg Gardens, Tuileries Garden, and Parc des Buttes Chaumont are ideal for a relaxed walk or picnic. Neighborhoods such as Le Marais, Montmartre, and Saint Germain des Prés offer a mix of historic streets, boutique shops, and cafés that remain active during public holidays.

Visit Major Museums

Paris museums are generally open on Ascension Day, though they may be busier than usual. The Louvre Museum is one of the most visited attractions in the world, and securing your Louvre Museum entrance tickets in advance helps avoid availability issues during the long weekend. For Impressionist art lovers, the Musée d’Orsay offers an exceptional collection, and booking your Orsay Museum entry ticket with digital audio guide ensures timed entry and a structured visit.

Experience the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower remains open on Ascension Day and continues to be one of the most in demand attractions. Holiday weekends can increase demand significantly. Reserving your Eiffel Tower tickets with summit access ahead of time allows you to secure your preferred time slot and enjoy panoramic views over Paris without last minute stress.

See Paris from the Seine

A Seine River cruise is a practical and relaxing way to explore the city during a busy holiday period. It offers clear views of landmarks while avoiding street level crowds. You can opt for classic Seine River cruise tickets or combine sightseeing with a local treat through a Seine River cruise and French crêpe tasting near the Eiffel Tower. Afternoon and sunset departures are particularly popular during long weekends.

Practical Tips for Visiting Paris on Ascension Day

Book attraction tickets in advance and choose early morning or late afternoon time slots when possible. Check public transport schedules before traveling. Expect moderate to high crowd levels in central districts and near major monuments. Make restaurant reservations if you plan to dine in popular areas. With proper planning, Ascension Day 2026 can be a rewarding time to experience Paris, combining a festive atmosphere with access to the city’s top cultural highlights.