If you arrive in Paris on a Sunday, you may be surprised to see quiet streets and shuttered shops. This is because Sundays in France are traditionally a day of rest, with many locals choosing relaxation over errands.
Why Paris Feels Calm on Sundays
Since the French Third Republic in 1905 established secularism, attending church was no longer legally required. Yet, Sunday remained a cherished time for slowing down, spending time with loved ones, and recharging after a long week.
But don’t worry—your weekend trip to Paris won’t be wasted. The city offers plenty of experiences that make Sundays truly special.
Sunday Morning in Paris: Brunch Culture
Paris may seem sleepy, but its brunch scene is vibrant. Dedicated chefs, servers, and baristas make sure Sundays are all about indulgence.
Expect endless choices: eggs prepared every way, smoked salmon, stuffed peppers, caramelized onions, crêpes, waffles, bacon, foie gras, pastries, fresh berries, and cheeses. Most restaurants serve brunch between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM, allowing you to savor your meal at leisure.
- Affordable brunch spots: Try Twinkie Breakfasts (from 10:00 AM) or HolyBelly (from 9:00 AM) for hearty plates without breaking the bank.
- Luxury buffets: High-end hotels like The Shangri-La and Le Marriott offer lavish spreads, with prices ranging from €15 to €100.
- Unique experiences: Book a table at The Comedy Club in the 10th arrondissement, where brunch comes with stand-up comedy (from €30).
Brunch in Paris isn’t just about eating—it’s a weekly ritual, much like a festive family dinner, only more relaxed and communal.
Exploring Paris After Brunch
To walk off your feast, head to one of Paris’s world-class museums. Almost all remain open on Sundays, with free admission on the first Sunday of each month.
- The big names: Wander the Louvre (60,600 m² of exhibits) or the Musée d’Orsay (57,400 m²), if you’re up for lots of walking.
- Smaller treasures: Visit the Museum of the History of Medicine (all in one hall) or the Museum of Hunting and Nature, housed in a historic mansion.
- Hidden gems: Explore the Police Prefecture Museum or marvel at giant skeletons in the Museum of Paleontology, right next to the lush Jardin des Plantes.
Prefer the outdoors? Consider a guided walking tour of the Left Bank, where many of these cultural spots are located.
Sunday Afternoon in Paris
After the Jardin des Plantes, walk a few minutes to the Grande Mosquée de Paris. While women cannot access the hammam on Sundays (reserved for men), everyone can enjoy mint tea and Arabic pastries in the stunning courtyard, surrounded by mosaics, ivy, and fragrant shisha aromas. It’s the perfect spot to relax and recharge.
Looking for something more active? Head to the AccorHotels Arena, where the indoor ice-skating rink stays open until 6:00 PM. With disco lights and upbeat music, it feels like a nightclub on ice—an energizing way to spend an hour before the evening begins.
Paris by Night: Sunday Evening Adventures
If you still have energy after a full day, Paris nightlife won’t disappoint.
- Dance clubs: At Le Duplex near the Champs-Élysées, women enjoy free sparkling wine and free entry before midnight.
- Riverside bars: For something calmer, sip cocktails at Le Faust along the Seine. Popular with the bohemian-bourgeois crowd (bobo scene), it’s open until 2:00 AM and offers a chic riverside atmosphere.
Whether you want to dance until morning or relax with a drink by the river, Paris ensures Sunday nights are just as exciting as Fridays and Saturdays.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Parisian Sunday
Sundays in Paris are about slowing down and savoring life at your own rhythm. Enjoy a decadent brunch, wander through museums, sip tea in a serene courtyard, skate to disco lights, and cap the night with music or cocktails.
In Paris, Sundays aren’t about rushing—they’re about living fully. Eat when you’re hungry, rest when you’re tired, and let the city guide your pace.
