Is Paris Open on Ascension Day 2026? Full Visitor Guide

Ascension Day is a national public holiday in France, and in 2026 it falls on Thursday, May 14. Because many locals also take Friday off, Paris often enjoys a long-weekend atmosphere during this period.

The city does not close entirely, but the pace of daily life shifts. While some neighborhood shops and administrative offices may shut their doors, major museums, monuments, restaurants, and tourism services remain open. Popular landmarks, gardens, and riverside areas tend to feel especially lively.

What Changes in Paris on Ascension Day?

On Ascension Day, public transportation operates on a holiday timetable. Banks, post offices, and certain local businesses may be closed.

However, central restaurants, cafés, leading museums, and Seine River cruises continue welcoming visitors as usual.

Churches across Paris hold special services, and areas surrounding important religious sites such as Notre-Dame Cathedral may experience higher foot traffic. Since this holiday creates a long weekend for many French residents, visitor numbers at major attractions typically increase.

Enjoy Spring in Paris: Parks & Historic Districts

​Ascension Day usually falls during pleasant spring weather, making it ideal for outdoor exploration.

You can enjoy a peaceful walk or picnic at:

Luxembourg Gardens

Tuileries Garden

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

Historic neighborhoods such as Le Marais, Montmartre, and Saint-Germain-des-Prés remain vibrant during public holidays. These districts offer charming streets, independent boutiques, art galleries, and cafés that stay active throughout the long weekend.

Visit Paris Museums During the Holiday

​Most major Paris museums remain open on Ascension Day, though they may be busier than normal.

The Louvre Museum, one of the world’s most visited cultural landmarks, experiences strong demand during long weekends. Booking Louvre entrance tickets in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred time slot.

For lovers of Impressionist art, the Musée d’Orsay provides an exceptional collection. Reserving your Orsay Museum entry ticket with a digital audio guide ensures a smooth and structured visit, even during peak holiday periods.

Eiffel Tower on Ascension Day

​The Eiffel Tower stays open on Ascension Day and remains one of the most sought-after attractions in Paris. Holiday weekends significantly increase ticket demand.

Reserving Eiffel Tower tickets with summit access ahead of time helps you avoid last-minute availability issues and guarantees panoramic views over the city at your chosen hour.

Discover Paris from the Seine River

​A Seine River cruise is one of the most practical and relaxing experiences during a busy holiday weekend. While the streets may be crowded, the river offers open views of Paris landmarks in a calmer setting.

You can choose:

Standard sightseeing cruise tickets

A Seine River cruise combined with a French crêpe tasting near the Eiffel Tower

Afternoon and sunset departures are especially popular during Ascension weekend.

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 entry times

Check public transport holiday schedules

Expect moderate to high crowds near central monuments

Reserve restaurants in advance in popular districts

With thoughtful planning, Ascension Day 2026 can be an excellent time to visit Paris. The city offers a festive atmosphere, beautiful spring weather, and full access to its iconic cultural highlights, just with slightly higher demand.