Paris on Ascension Day 2026: Travel Guide, Opening Hours & Things to Know

Ascension Day is an official public holiday in France, and in 2026 it falls on Thursday, May 14. Since many Parisians take Friday off as well, the city often turns into a four-day weekend destination with a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere.

Paris does not completely close during Ascension Day. Instead, the pace of daily life shifts. While some local businesses and administrative offices may shut their doors, most major museums, landmarks, and tourism services remain open. Central areas feel animated, especially around iconic monuments, gardens, and riverbanks.

What Changes in Paris During Ascension Day?

On public holidays, public transportation operates on a reduced or Sunday schedule. Banks, post offices, and smaller neighborhood shops are often closed.

However, visitors will find that:

Restaurants and cafés in tourist areas stay open

Major museums and monuments welcome guests

Seine River cruises continue running

Churches hold special religious services

Areas near landmarks such as Notre Dame Cathedral may experience increased foot traffic. Because it is a long weekend for many French residents, popular attractions can be busier than usual.

Planning ahead is key to enjoying the holiday smoothly.

Enjoy Paris Outdoors in Spring

Ascension Day usually brings pleasant spring weather, making it ideal for outdoor exploration.

Paris parks are particularly inviting during this time. 

You can enjoy a peaceful walk or picnic at:

Luxembourg Gardens

Tuileries Garden

Parc des Buttes Chaumont

Historic districts also remain lively on public holidays. Strolling through Le Marais, Montmartre, or Saint-Germain-des-Prés allows you to experience charming streets, boutique shops, and classic Parisian cafés without needing a strict schedule.

Explore Paris Museums

Most major Paris museums stay open on Ascension Day, though demand may be higher due to the extended weekend.

The Louvre Museum, one of the most visited museums worldwide, is especially popular during holidays. Booking Louvre Museum entrance tickets in advance is strongly recommended to secure your preferred time slot.

Art enthusiasts can also visit the Musée d’Orsay, home to an exceptional collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces. Reserving an Orsay Museum entry ticket with a digital audio guide helps ensure smooth access and a well-organized visit.

Visit the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower remains open on Ascension Day and continues to attract large numbers of visitors. Holiday weekends often increase ticket demand significantly.

Reserving your Eiffel Tower tickets with summit access in advance allows you to:

Avoid last-minute availability issues

Secure your preferred visiting time

Enjoy panoramic views over Paris without stress

Early morning and late afternoon time slots are typically more comfortable.

Discover Paris from the Seine River

A Seine River cruise is one of the most relaxing ways to explore Paris during a busy holiday period. While streets may feel crowded, the river offers open views of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Options include:

Classic sightseeing Seine River cruise tickets

Combination experiences such as a Seine River cruise with French crêpe tasting near the Eiffel Tower

​Sunset departures are especially popular during long weekends, offering beautiful lighting over the Paris skyline.

Practical Travel Tips for Ascension Day 2026

To make the most of your visit:

Book attraction tickets in advance

Choose early morning or late afternoon time slots

Check public transportation schedules before heading out

Expect moderate to high crowd levels in central districts

Reserve restaurants in advance for popular dining areas

With proper planning, Ascension Day 2026 can be an excellent time to visit Paris. The city combines a festive long-weekend atmosphere with full access to its top cultural attractions, historic neighborhoods, and scenic river views.