Best (& Worst) Time Of The Year To Visit France 2025: Weather By Month

Are you planning a trip to France this year? If you’re not sure when to go, this is the guide for you! I’m sharing the best (and worst) times of the year to visit France so you can plan a dream trip.

We’ve spent quite a few months in France; Jack took me to Paris for my 30th birthday, and we recently spent over two weeks driving around Alsace. We’ve got friends living in Dordogne and Strasbourg, and we’ve driven along the French Riviera. Plus, I’ve been skiing in the Alps numerous times as a teenager.

That said, there’s still so much of France we want to see. It’s also quite hard to give an unequivocal answer to the best and worst times to visit since, depending on your reasons, each region has its benefits no matter the time of year. 

However, I still believe the best time to visit France is during the shoulder seasons: April and May into early June and September into early October.

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Uncover France’s Weather Month By Month And The Best (& Worst) Time To Visit For You!

In this post, we will cover the weather in France month by month in a detailed breakdown to help you plan your perfect holiday! I’ll also include topics:

• The best time of the year to visit France
• The worst time to visit France
• Our experience visiting France 
• The Geographic overview of France
• Festivals and carnivals in France that are not to be missed!

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When Is The Best Time Of The Year To Visit France?

It’s hard to narrow it down to one particular month as France has something to offer all year round. However, for us, the shoulder months of April, May, and September into early October are the best times to visit France (unless you want to ski). 

In April and May, spring flowers are in bloom, and the countryside is bursting with colours. If you’re after lavender fields, you’ll want to visit in June. The weather is mild, sunny and perfect for outdoor activities, and the cities are quieter in comparison to peak season.

September (and early October) are also great months to visit France. Although the peak season has ended, the weather is still enjoyable, especially in September. Late October starts seeing lots of rainfall.

However, I love this time of year because of the stunning autumn foliage, which makes everything even more beautiful. These later shoulder months are the perfect time to explore the vineyards, taste some of France’s best wines, and enjoy the last of the sunshine.

However, there are some things to keep in mind. Depending on where you are in the country and how early or late you are into the shoulder seasons, you’re more than likely to experience some rain and cooler nights. But head to southern France, and you’ll be fine!

Questions To Think About BEFORE Booking

That said, there are some questions you should ask yourself to help narrow down the best time of the year to visit France for you. Answer these questions to get started:

• Which part of the country are you thinking of exploring?
• Are you okay with variable terrains?
• Does the presence of crowds bother you?
• Does high humidity have a negative impact on your comfort?
• Are you comfortable with cooler or warmer temperatures?
• Do you lean towards spending your time outdoors hiking, by the beach or delving into a new city experience?

Give these questions some thought, and once you’ve determined the answers, you’ll be on your way to discovering when the best time to visit France is for you.

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What We Think Are The Best Months To Visit France?

We think the best time to visit France is during the shoulder months of April, May (early June), September, and early October. I love these months for visiting Southern Europe because they generally attract fewer crowds, warm weather, and are more affordable. 

It’s no different in France; however, September can still be a little pricey. Nevertheless, the weather is lovely, and if you’re heading to the south of France, the beaches won’t be too busy either.

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What Is The Worst Time To Visit France?

This is an interesting question, as most people agree that the winter season is the worst time to visit France; however, I disagree. As I mentioned earlier, there really is no good or bad time to visit, as it depends on your reasons for visiting.

Winter does have the worst weather in terms of temperature and rain, but late winter, January, and February are the best months for skiing in France; resorts in the French Alps are some of the best in the world! 

Although December in France is cold, it can also be a fun time to visit. The Christmas markets are in full swing, and the streets are decorated with lights, creating a festive glow.

That said, if you don’t like cold and wet weather, January, February, and November might be the worst months to visit. Then again, winter is much more affordable, so if you’re looking for a budget-friendly holiday, this might be the best time to visit.

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When Do We Think Is The Worst Time To Visit France

However, for us, the peak season, which is often considered the best time to visit France, is actually the worst. We don’t like crowds, and this time of year attracts thousands of tourists. Not only that, but accommodation, entertainment, transport, and attraction prices skyrocket, and it’s hard to get anywhere without queuing.

Travelling during these peak periods in France isn’t for us! But you might feel differently.

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France Geographic Overview

Located in Western Europe, France has a diverse geography that influences its climate. The country is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, the English Channel to the north, and the Mediterranean Sea to the south. 

You’ll typically experience four seasons with predictable (more or less) weather patterns. However, it’s divided into regions: mainly the north, central, south, mountains, and Atlantic coast, all of which feature microclimates. 

The terrain is interesting and significantly impacts its weather patterns, too. The mountains in the south and east create a rain shadow effect, causing the regions to be drier than the rest of the country. In contrast, the flatlands in the north and west of France are often subject to more rainfall.

As for the microclimates, the north of France and the Atlantic coast have a temperate oceanic climate, with mild winters and cooler summers. Central France has a continental climate, with cold winters and hot summers, and the south of France has a Mediterranean climate, characterised by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. 

The mountain regions of France have a microclimate that can change depending on the altitude, with cooler temperatures, more precipitation and snowfall at higher elevations.

In the end, France’s climate varies. You can enjoy vineyards and chateaux in central France for most of the year, beaches in the south in summer, surfing in the west and skiing in the mountains in winter. No matter what you’re after, France has it all.

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Our Experience Visiting France

“How can anyone govern a nation that has two hundred and forty-six different kinds of cheese”

Charles de Gaulle

The last couple of times we’ve visited France have been in March, for my birthday and in September, for a road trip to Alsace. Therefore, I’m going to cover our experience in France during these two months.

MARCH

To be honest, we didn’t have the best weather in March. The days were mostly overcast, with a few light showers. We were in Paris for three nights to celebrate my birthday, and two of the three days were pretty gloomy.

We did have one day when the sun made an appearance, and we celebrated by jumping on the hop-on-hop-off bus. However, Paris is a year-round destination, and the weather didn’t stop us from having a fantastic time.

There are so many museums and attractions to visit and cafes to relax in; we ate our body weight in cheese and meats and drank plenty of wine. 

One thing I will mention is that the city wasn’t very “pretty”. We were too early in the season for the spring blooms, and the dreary days didn’t help the barren trees look any better. If you’re looking for colourful photos, March probably isn’t the best time to go.

On the plus side, it was the low season, so many attractions and activities were offering discounts, the cafes and restaurants were full of locals instead of tourists, and we barely had to queue. The Eiffel Tower still had a long queue, though, so we skipped going up, instead admiring it from below.

SEPTEMBER

September in France was a whole different story. This time, we were in Alsace visiting a friend; starting from Strasbourg, we spent two weeks road-tripping along the Route des Vins.

The weather was incredible! If anything, maybe too hot on certain days, but overall, blue skies, sunny, warm and beautiful. Early September in Strasbourg was a dream. The city is stunning, and although it was busy, it wasn’t too crowded, and we were able to enjoy the sites.

Colourful flowers were still in bloom, and it felt more like summer than early autumn. Following the wine route, we drove south for the Swiss border – a quick two-day drive through on our way to Italy – and the weather remained pretty much perfect.

Alsace’s fairytale villages are unbeatable: quaint, charming, and colourful. They attract a lot of tourists, and the most popular were still teeming with sightseers in September. But those villages off day-tripping routes were quiet little gems.

The countryside was ripe, with the harvest just starting, although the forests were still a leafy green. At the foothills of the Vosges mountains, Alsace is a fantastic place for hiking, and from the viewpoints, the whole valley and flood plains can be seen. 

We had a great time exploring Alsace, and from my experience, September is a great time to visit!

Would We Recommend Visiting France In March or September?

We definitely think September is one of the best months to visit France. The days are long, and the weather is wonderful. Since September was still quite hot, I believe October would also be a great time to visit with slightly cooler temperatures.

March, on the other hand, is not the best time to visit France. However, it’s not a bad time either for Paris and city getaways. I recommend April for city visits instead; you’ll get more sunshine, and the spring blooms will add a pop of colour.

That said, if you’re travelling on a budget, March is a great time to go!

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France Weather By Month

Do you know which month you’re visiting France? Find out below if it’s a good time to go.

France In January

January is the middle of winter in France; it’s cold and wet. Average temperatures range between 2°C and 7°C (36 to 45°F). Although the mountain regions usually go below freezing, the south is slightly milder, but it can still be quite wet.

Despite the chilly weather, January can be a good time to visit France, especially if you don’t mind the cold and damp and looking to save money. You’ll get some great deals on accommodation and attractions; plus, the crowds are much, much smaller.

January also features “Les soldes,” or the winter sales. They last about four weeks and offer awesome discounts on designer clothing throughout the country.

Paris and Strasbourg are particularly magical during early January, with fewer tourists and beautiful decorations. However, January is the peak season for French ski resorts and the most expensive time to visit the French Alps and Pyrenees. 

France In February

February is France’s least crowded month overall, making it an ideal time if you prefer to avoid crowds. However, it’s also one of the coldest months, with average temperatures ranging from 4°C to 10°C (39°F to 50°F), so it can get quite nippy.

That said, February is an affordable month to visit France, except for the ski resorts in the Alps. It’s also the month of Carnaval, which is famously celebrated in Nice, where you can witness colourful parades and street parties. 

Early February also sees the end of the winter sales. Although busier for a short period during the Carnaval celebrations, you’ll be able to explore without too many tourists. 

The south of France warms up slightly, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 12°C (46°F to 53°F); however, it’s still going to be damp and gloomy all month throughout the majority of the country.

France In March

March in France marks the end of winter and the start of spring. The weather is mild, with average temperatures ranging between 8°C to 14°C (46°F to 57°F) depending on the region.

The northern parts of the country can be colder, and there can still be snow in the mountainous regions. It’s the last month of the ski season, and you risk less-than-perfect runs, but it is the cheapest month to visit the French Alps with fewer crowds.

South France experiences the warmest temperatures, but spring showers are still common; however, March is not the wettest month. You’ll notice the skies start to clear up towards the end of the month, giving way to sunshine, especially in the south.

France is relatively quiet in March, with fewer tourists than in the summer months, making it an affordable time to visit. Cities like Paris are still buzzing with energy, and the lack of crowds makes it ideal for exploring the city’s landmarks without the hassle of long queues. 

France In April

April is a nice time to visit France, with a moderate climate and spring blossoms filling the air. The temperature ranges from 11°C to 16°C (51°F to 61°F), but if you’re lucky, it can reach highs of 18°C/64°F in the southern regions. 

While the north remains a bit cooler and overcast, the rest of the country experiences warm and sunny days, perfect for exploring the cities and countryside. In this south, although warmer, it’s also usually a little more rainy than March.

As a shoulder month, April sees a slight increase in prices, but it’s still an excellent time to visit France if you’re on a budget and looking for better weather conditions. 

⭐ Pro tip >> It’s worth mentioning that the evening temperatures drop quite significantly, and you’ll need to continue wrapping up. In the north, it’s about 5°C/41°F, and in the south, it’s around 9°C/48°F.

France In May

May is a wonderful time to visit France, especially if you’re a fan of warm weather and not too many tourists. Depending on where you are in the country, the temperatures typically range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), making it the perfect time to explore without feeling too hot or too cold.

Interestingly, May brings light showers to Paris and the surrounding region, more so than April. However, they tend to pass quickly, and for the most part, the whole country will be bathed in sunshine and blue skies, which is a welcome change from the colder months.

While May is likely the most popular of the shoulder months, it’s still not as crowded as the busy summer period, and prices are generally more affordable. Plus, with longer days, you’ll have more time to discover the beauty of France. 

⭐ Pro tip >> One of the best things about May is that the flowers will be in full bloom, adding pops of colour everywhere. Evening temperatures can still be cool, averaging about 10°C/50°F, so it’s a good idea to pack clothing suitable for both warm afternoons and cooler evenings. 

France In June

If you’re looking for warm, sunny weather, June is a great time to visit France. The temperatures range from 15°C to 26°C (59°F to 79°F), making it an ideal month for outdoor activities and sightseeing. For lavender fields, head to Provence in June. 

However, it’s important to keep in mind that June is a popular month for tourists, so you can expect crowded streets and busy attractions. If you’re planning your trip during this time, I suggest booking your accommodations and activities in advance to avoid last-minute disappointments.

June in France is also a time for several festivals and events, such as the Fête de la Musique, which is celebrated throughout the country on the summer solstice. If you plan to visit France during the summer, June is the best month.

⭐ Pro tip >> If you’re heading to northern France, be sure to bring some warmer layers as it can still get chilly at night. On the other hand, southern France tends to be warmer in June, so make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated throughout your trip.

France In July

July is a wonderful time to visit France if you’re looking for warm and sunny weather. Daytime temperatures range between 23°C and 29°C (73°F to 84°F), depending on where you are. 

The south of France rarely goes below the mid-20s and even sticks around 18°C/ 64°F in the evenings. Elsewhere, evenings tend to be cooler but still pleasant, averaging about 15°C/ 59°F.

Since the weather is on top form, July is a very popular month for tourists, so you’re going to hit crowds and busy attractions. To avoid any last-minute disappointments, I recommend booking your accommodations and activities in advance.

That said, if you head to the Alps, it’s an excellent month for outdoor activities and exploring the beautiful mountain trails without the high price tags.

One of the most significant events in France during July is Bastille Day, which is celebrated throughout the country on the 14th of July.

⭐ Pro tip >> If you’re planning to visit southern France, make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated throughout your trip, as temperatures tend to be hotter in this region. 

France In August

August in France is a popular time for tourists to explore the country. Still, it’s also the peak season for locals to take their holidays. As a result, August is one of the busiest and most expensive months in France, and in my opinion, not the best time to visit.

As expected, prices are at their highest, and it can be challenging to find a good deal on accommodations and activities. It’s crucial to book everything in advance, such as a visit to the Eiffel Tower or the Palace of Versailles, as they tend to be fully booked during this peak season.

The average temperatures in France during August range from 22°C to 29°C (71°F to 84°F). The weather is usually sunny and dry in the south and central regions, but in the northern parts, you can still expect some occasional rain.

August is the hottest month overall in the south of France, with temperatures sometimes rising above 30°C (86°F). Much like June, the evenings can be hot and humid, making it challenging to sleep without air conditioning. 

In the northern regions, the temperatures are milder, and you can expect some cool evenings.

It’s worth noting that France experienced a heatwave in August and September 2023, with temperatures reaching above 40°C (104°F) in some parts of the country.

France In September

September is a great time to visit France, particularly if you want to avoid the peak tourist season. The weather is often mild and pleasant, with occasional rain showers in some areas.

We were in Alsace in September, and it was hot. France was just coming out of a heatwave in which the region suffered. However, by the time we arrived, temperatures had dropped to the mid and high 20s, thank goodness, because it would have been very uncomfortable!

If you’re planning to visit the north of France, you can expect cooler temperatures, with an average of 20°C/ 68°F and below. The weather can be a bit unpredictable, but the days are still sunny and bright days. 

On the other hand, if you’re heading south, temperatures are perfect (or perfect for my liking!), with the average around 25°C/ 77°F. The Mediterranean coastal areas are particularly lovely in September, and the sea is still warm enough to swim in.

September is still a popular month for overseas tourism in France, so rates for accommodations and entertainment can remain relatively high, especially in major cities such as Paris. However, if you plan your trip well in advance, you can find some great deals on flights and hotels.

France In October

October in France starts to dampen, but the weather remains mild; temperatures range from 13°C/55°F in the Alps to 16°C/61°F in the north and 21°C/70°F in the south. The autumn foliage is spectacular, and if you don’t mind a bit of light rain, it’s ideal for exploring the outdoors without sweltering in the heat. 

Since October is a shoulder month, there are advantages to visiting France during this time, such as the smaller crowds and lower prices. Accommodation and activity prices are reasonable, and the main attractions are less busy.

However, it’s essential to note that since October is the last shoulder month in France, some tourist attractions may have limited opening hours and have already begun closing for the winter season. This is especially true in the smaller villages.

⭐ Pro tip >> If you’re visiting France in October, I’d recommend packing some warm clothes as the evenings can get chilly throughout the country.

France In November

November marks a significant change in the weather in France. The first week can still be relatively mild, but after that, the skies are usually grey, the days are noticeably shorter, and rainfall is frequent. 

While not the most appealing weather for a holiday, November can be an excellent time for budget travellers as it’s the start of the low season, and prices drop significantly. 

On the bright side, You won’t have to deal with crowds of tourists, and the temperatures are still bearable, ranging from 10°C to 16°C (50°F to 61°F). As long as you pack warm clothes and an umbrella, you’ll still be able to enjoy the city sights.

Interestingly, northern France’s average temperatures remain in sync with the south, and you can expect daytime temps of about 16°C/61°F. 

⭐ Pro tip >> November is an excellent time for foodies to visit France. This month marks the start of the truffle season, and many restaurants across the country feature this prized ingredient in their menus. 

France In December

December is a fascinating time to visit France, especially if you’re a winter person. The weather may not be ideal, but it’s not terrible either, and the lead-up to Christmas makes it all worthwhile. 

The average temperature hovers between 7°C and 13°C (44°F and 55°F), with the Alps and central regions experiencing colder weather. Central and western France is usually overcast and damp, while southern France is milder but can get quite wet. 

In some areas at high elevations, early snowfall can signal the start of the ski season, which is an added bonus.

The good thing about December is that it’s one of the cheapest months to visit France (unless you’re skiing), as prices tend to be at their all-time low. Tourist numbers are also relatively low, except for the week before Christmas, so you can explore France’s top attractions without the crowds.

The country celebrates Christmas in a grand way, with elaborate light displays, festive markets, and traditional cuisine. So, if you don’t mind the cold and wet weather and want to experience France’s holiday spirit, December can be an excellent time to visit.

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France Festivals & Public Holidays

• New Year’s Day (Jour de l’An): January 1 
• Epiphany (Fête des Rois): January 6 
• Easter (Pâques): March or April (depending on the year) 
• Labor Day (Fête du Travail): May 1 
• VE Day (Fête de la Victoire): May 8 
• Ascension Day (L’Ascension): 40 days after Easter 
• Pentecost (Pentecôte): 50 days after Easter 
• Fête de la Musique (Music Festival): June 21
• Bastille Day (Fête de la Bastille) :July 14 
• Assumption Day (L’Assomption): August 15 
• All Saints’ Day (La Toussaint): November 1 
• Armistice Day (Jour de l’Armistice): November 11 
• Beaujolais Nouveau: November
• Christmas Day:  December 25
• New Year’s Eve: December 31

What To Pack For France

It’s important to pack appropriate clothing for the four seasons in France. For summer, I recommend light and breathable fabrics, while in autumn, you’ll need to pack a waterproof jacket. Winter calls for warm layers, and a light jacket or sweater is ideal for spring. 

Comfortable walking shoes are also a must-have, regardless of the season, especially if you plan to do a lot of sightseeing.

WINTER MONTHS

France experiences the coldest months of the year, during January, February, and December, which are also quite rainy. Therefore, it’s crucial to pack enough warm and wet-weather clothing if you intend to visit during these months. 

To stay warm, you’ll have to layer it up, so bear this in mind when packing.

SPRING MONTHS

The months of spring, namely March, April, and May, have different weather patterns depending on the location. March can be quite cold, particularly in the mornings and evenings, while May is much warmer. 

There is a high probability of rainfall, especially during early spring, so I suggest you carry a suitable rain jacket.

SUMMER MONTHS

France experiences the hottest weather of the year from June through August, with minimal chances of rainfall. For this season, I recommend packing comfortable and breathable clothing. While the northern regions may have cooler mornings, the rest of the country will have long and hot days.

AUTUMN MONTHS

September through November are the Autumn months. Based on our experience, the weather during September and early October remains warm. However, as we approach November, the weather starts to get colder, and you should pack some warm clothes. 

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Does France Have Seasons?

Yes, France experiences four distinct seasons: winter, spring, summer and autumn. Why? It’s due to the Earth’s tilt (which is at an angle of 23.5 degrees) and its orbit around the sun. 

• Winter is from December to February, with cold temperatures and plenty of snowfall in the mountainous regions of France. 
• Spring is from March to May, with milder temperatures and plenty of rainfall. It’s also blossom season.
• Summer is from June to August, with hot temperatures and occasional heatwaves. This is peak season in France.
• Autumn is from September to November, with mild temperatures and colourful foliage. This is when France harvests, and autumn is a great time to visit vineyards.

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France Weather By Month FAQs

What Is The “Off Season” In France?
The “off-season” in France typically refers to the period between November and March, when tourism is slower due to colder weather and shorter days. During this time, many tourist attractions may have reduced hours or be closed, but it can also be a great time to visit for those looking for a quieter and more affordable experience.

What Month Does Everything Close In France?
In France, many shops and businesses close during the summer holidays in August. Some will close during the off-season, especially in the smaller villages, or at least have shorter opening times.

What Is The Cheapest Month To Go To France?
The cheapest month to visit France largely depends on your travel preferences and the places you want to visit. However, for all regions except the snowy mountains, the winter months are the cheapest: December, January, and February.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Coastal Towns In France?
The best times for guaranteed weather in the coastal towns of France are the summer months between June and August. It’s warm and sunny, making it perfect for swimming and enjoying the beaches; however, it will be crowded. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May or September.

When Are The Best Times For Wine Tours In France?
The best times for wine tours in France depend on the region and the type of wine you want to taste. Generally, the best time to visit is from September to November. However, some regions, such as Bordeaux and Burgundy, tend to be busier during the summer months. It’s always a good idea to research the specific region you plan to visit and check the availability of tours and tastings.

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Best & Worst Time Of The Year To Visit France Conclusion

France is a beautiful country that can be enjoyed all year round, but April, May, September, and early October are, in my opinion, the best months to visit. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, wine tasting, or exploring the cities, these shoulder months offer the perfect balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

If you want to visit France on a budget, the best time to do so is during the winter off-season, when prices are at their lowest. March and October are worth considering for slightly warmer weather and still relatively low prices. 

If I have to provide one particular month, I’d say November is the worst time to visit France in terms of weather. This month is very wet and gloomy, and there are few attractions, festivals, etc., happening. Although it is the month of Beaujolais Nouveau, so…