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Places With Air Conditioning In Paris

Where To Refresh On A Hot Day

Staying cool in Paris during the summer can be a bit tricky, as air conditioning isn’t as widespread here as you might expect. When you’re out and about, keep an eye out for the term salle climatisée — bars and restaurants will often have a sign on the window if they have AC. But don’t expect it to necessarily be as cool as what you may be used to back home. To help you beat the heat, here’s a list of some of our favorite bars, restaurants, shops, museums, and hotels in Paris with air conditioning.

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Do Paris hotels have air conditioning?

Some do, but not all. Rooms in 4‑ and 5‑star hotels are required to have air conditioning and many 3‑star hotel chains have la clim too. But smaller boutique or budget spots may only offer a fan, so always check the amenity list (and read hotel reviews for clues).

Browse our list of the best hotels in Paris with air conditioning

Are there Paris restaurants with air conditioning?

Sort of. High‑end restaurants, hotels bars, and modern chains often have AC. But classic Parisian cafés and bistros rarely have air conditioning, or even ceiling fans. If you’re searching for spots to eat or drink while staying cool, look for “salle climatisée” in the description or advertised on the window.

Restaurant with air conditioning in Paris

Do Paris apartments have air conditioning?

Generally, no. Most Parisian apartments don’t have air conditioning. This is partly due to the fact that most of the buildings were built long before air conditioning existed, and the fact the city never really needed it until the

Some modern or renovated rentals do offer it, though, so it’s worth filtering for “air conditioning” or “climatisation” if you’re booking a short-term summer stay in Paris.

What are the best free ways to escape the heat in the French capital?

When the summer sun gets intense, head indoors to one of Paris’s air-conditioned museums, catch a ride on the newer, cooler Metro lines like Line 1, Line 2, and  Line 14, or take a leisurely stroll through the chilled aisles of Monoprix or Auchan. These grocery stores are perfect for a quiet, refreshing break — no purchase required.

Most of the city’s libraries, or bibliothèques, are also air conditioned, although they’re still not exactly cool.

At home (or in your hotel), keep shutters or curtains closed during the hottest hours of the day and let in the evening breeze once the sun goes down.

A portable fan or misting spray can also go a long way toward staying comfortable on the go. You’ll see lots of locals carrying Evian spray cans, so you’ll fit right in!

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