When is the best time to visit France?

Visiting France in April - May

Spring is considered one of the best seasons to visit France, as temperatures start to rise and life pours back into the towns and countryside. Markets tend to reopen or double in size. Although the Easter school break can increase domestic tourism, France during springtime is still relatively peaceful in terms of crowds. 

Events & Festivals

• The Cannes Film Festival in May plays host to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, and international names descend on the town for the annual award ceremony.

Visiting France in June - July

As it starts to heat up across the country, many visitors either head to the sea or to the swimming pool. June is considered one of the best months to visit, as schools are yet to break up for the summer and temperatures are just right for exploring the cities. July is busier, but it’s also when the lavender fields in Provence are at their peak.

Events & Festivals

• Fête de la Musique, held on 21st June, is a free live music festival held in all the large cities across the country.
• Held in July, the Tour de France is a prestigious bicycle race finishing at the Champs-Élysées in Paris. It takes a different route each year, usually through the mountains.
• Held on 14th July, Bastille Day is a big event in the French calendar. The storming of the Bastille is celebrated across France with fireworks, music and parties.

Visiting France in August

Many businesses throughout the country close in August, as this is when many of the French take trips of their own and the schools take their long summer break. However, it’s still a very popular month for travel. Temperatures are at their warmest, so you can spend your days soaking up the sun and dining alfresco.

Visiting France in September - October

This is one of the best times to visit France. Temperatures are still warm but not too hot, creating ideal conditions for exploring both the cities and the countryside. The crowds have thinned, families have returned to school, and landscapes are illuminated with vibrant reds and golds, ready for the vendange (grape harvest) to begin.  

Events & Festivals

• Paris Fashion Week is held twice a year, in spring and autumn, and celebrates the latest styles and trends.
• Held on the first Saturday in October, Nuit Blanche or ‘White Night’ is an all-night art festival where museums and galleries across Paris open their doors and street parties reign supreme for one night only.

Visiting France in November - December

Although the weather is cooler, November and December are lovely months to visit Paris. Museums and sites are quiet, while restaurants in the cities are still lively. Christmas markets open up across the cities, where vendors sell mulled wine, cheese, charcuterie and seasonal arts and crafts. Rural areas can be quiet during these months. 

Events & Festivals

• Christmas markets pop up across the country, particularly in the capital.