The Best Time to Visit France

31 Jan 2025

31 January 2025

6 min read

Written by: Abbi Walker Digital Content Writer

France is a country that charms in every season – from snow-capped Alpine villages in winter to lavender fields in the sun-drenched summer. With its temperate climate and diverse landscapes, France offers something year-round for every kind of traveller.

Shoulder seasons - spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) - are some of the most delightful times to explore France. In spring, parks bloom with cherry blossoms and daffodils, cafés spill out onto the pavements again, and cities like Paris and Lyon shake off the winter chill. Autumn is similarly stunning – the vineyards of Bordeaux and Burgundy turn fiery shades of red and gold, and the cities feel pleasantly calm after the summer crowds have gone.

Summer (June to August) is, unsurprisingly, peak tourist season. The French Riviera dazzles with its coastal glamour, festivals fill city squares, and the countryside is at its most vibrant. Just be prepared for higher prices and crowds in popular areas. In winter (December to February) people flock from the cities to the Alps which come alive as a ski destination, drawing snow lovers from all over Europe.

What to expect from France in January

What to expect from France in January

France is firmly in the grip of winter in January, with temperatures ranging from 1°C to 7°C, depending on the region. But while the cities are grey and chilly, the Alps are a winter wonderland with ski season in full swing.
If you're looking to avoid the crowds, now is the perfect time to see landmarks like the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre (a great excuse to avoid the cold!). The festive lights linger into early January if you'd like to cling on to that festive feeling, and les soldes - the January sales - begin mid-month, ideal for bargain hunting!

Festivals and events in January

La Fête des Rois (Epiphany)

Held on 6th January
Celebrated with galette des rois, a puff pastry cake with almond cream
A small charm, or fève, is hidden inside, and whoever finds it gets to wear the crown!

What to expect from France in February

February maintains that winter chill, with average temperatures of 2°C to 9°C, but it's getting drier. Those crisp, dry days are perfect for winter walks and museum trips.

Winter sports are still popular in the French Alps, especially during the French school holidays.

Festivals and events in February

Nice Carnival

Two-week celebration leading up to Lent
Elaborate parades, giant floats, and flower battles on the Promenade des Anglais
One of the oldest and most famous carnivals in the world

What to expect from France in March

March sees the start of Spring, especially in southern regions. Temperatures creep higher with averages of 5°C to 13°C, and longer days and first blossoms gradually unfold.

Paris also starts to come alive again, and the castles of the Loire Valley reopen for the season - it's a great time to visit without the summer crowds.

Festivals and events in March

Sarlat Fest'Oie

Takes place the first weekend in March in Sralat, Dordogne
celebrates the famous Foie Gras, the goose and everything associated with this gourmet fare
Expect Marching bands, gourmet food and entertainment but the centre of attention is definitely the Périgord goose

What to expect from France in April

April sees lows of 8°C and highs around 16°C, with gardens bursting into bloom and Easter celebrations taking place across the country.

This is a great time for countryside walks in Provence or exploring Normandy before the summer tourists arrive. You may experience the occasional spring shower, but it adds to the romance of France’s picturesque cities.

Festivals and events in April

Foire de Paris

Held in late April through early May in Paris
A huge home and lifestyle fair with food, wine, and cultural exhibitions
A fun way to get a taste of modern French life

What to expect from France in May

May is one of the best times to visit France – the weather is warm but not hot, with temperatures ranging from 11°C to 20°C.

There are a number of public holidays this month - so be aware some places may close - but it also means you might stumble upon a local festival or market. The countryside is lush and green, and cities feel alive without being overwhelmed.

Festivals and events in May

Nuit des Musées (Night of Museums)

Held across France in late May
Museums open late and free, often with special tours and performances

What to expect from France in June

June sees the start of summer warmth with temperatures rising to between 15°C and 25°C.

The lavender fields of Provence begin to bloom, the beaches begin to fill up, and cafés are bustling well into the evening.

Festivals and events in June

Fête de la Musique

Takes place on 21st June, World Music Day
A nationwide celebration of music
Free performances in parks, streets, and squares across the country
All genres represented – from classical to rock to jazz

What to expect from France in July

July is peak summer in France. Expect lows of 17°C and highs of 30°C, especially in the south.

In July, most of the French take their holiday so cities like Paris may feel quieter but coastal areas and countryside tours are lively. The Tour de France also takes place in July, passing through various parts of the country so beware of road closures, if you're travelling by car.

Festivals and events in July

Bastille Day (14th July)

France’s National Day
Parades, fireworks (especially spectacular in Paris), and parties
A great time to soak up French patriotism and celebration

What to expect from France in August

August sees the peak of the summer heat with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 32°C.
While many locals head to the coast or countryside, Paris empties out a little, making it a good time for sightseeing with fewer queues – though some smaller shops and restaurants may be closed for the holidays.

Festivals and events in August

Corso de la Lavande

Takes place towards the end of July to early August
An iconic lavender flower parade celebrating the years bloom
Expect fireworks, a grande ball, folk groups and thousands of lavender purses

What to expect from France in September

Refreshing milder weather returns with temperatures between 15°C and 25°C. It's harvest season - the ideal time to visit for any foodies or wine connoisseurs. The landscapes turn golden and cities come back to life as the locals return from their holiday and the cultural calendar starts to pick up again.

Festivals and events in September

Journées du Patrimoine (Heritage Days)

Held on a weekend in mid-September
Historic buildings and private mansions open to the public, often for free
A unique chance to see behind the scenes of France’s cultural gems

What to expect from France in October

October is one of the most picturesque months to explore France, with autumn in full swing. Expect temperatures around 11°C and 18°C.

It's the perfect time to venture into the countryside which is golden and crisp - ideal for scenic drives or vineyard visits. Any threats of rain can be countered with a museum visit, or stopping in a local restaurant to enjoy some of France's hearty cuisine.

Festivals and events in October

Semaine du Goût (Taste Week)

Takes place during the third or fourth week of October
Celebrates the diversity of French cuisine and food education

What to expect from France in November

November is a quieter, cosy time to visit, with temperatures of 6°C to 12°C. Paris and other cities start lighting up with early Christmas decorations, and there's a peaceful, romantic atmosphere.

In eastern France, towns like Strasbourg and Colmar start setting up their iconic Christmas markets, towards the end of the month.

Festivals and events in November

Armistice Day

Takes place on 11th November
National holiday marking the end of WWI
Commemorations held across the country, particularly at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris

What to expect from France in December

December is a magical time of year in France; Christmas markets light up towns and villages, especially in Alsace and the Alps, where half-timbered houses look like something from a snow globe. Paris truly embodies its moniker - the 'City of Lights' - and food lovers will be in heaven with seasonal treats like mulled wine and bûche de Noël (yule log). Expect temperatures from 2°C to 8°C.