When is the Best Time of Year to Visit France? The ideal time to visit France is during the spring when the weather is mild and the flowers are in full bloom. The peak season for visiting France is typically July and August, when the weather is generally warm and pleasant. However, if you’d prefer to steer clear of large crowds and reduce travel expenses, consider alternative times of the year. Continue reading for tips on what to do in France during less busy periods and discover which months are best suited for various activities. To enjoy pleasant weather and fewer tourists, the ideal time to visit France is from April to June.
Shoulder Season in France
Summer offers the sunniest and most enjoyable weather for exploring and enjoying outdoor spaces. Yet, this period is also the busiest and most expensive, with higher prices for accommodations and flights. Additionally, the summer heat can sometimes be overwhelming. To make the most of your trip, consider visiting France during the shoulder seasons—May, June, September, or October. During these months, you can benefit from lower costs and a more relaxed experience, allowing you to explore France at a leisurely pace. For those looking to avoid the summer crowds, the ideal time to visit France is in the shoulder seasons of May or September.
What to Do on a Rainy Day in France
In Paris and other major French cities, May and June are excellent for exploring, even if the weather isn’t always perfect. Here are some great indoor activities:
- Museums: Explore renowned spots like the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Rodin Museum, and Picasso Museum.
- Shopping: Visit indoor malls such as Galerie Lafayette, Beaugrenelle, and Carrousel du Louvre.
- Dining: Savor diverse French cuisine, from delicious pastries to gourmet meals—France offers a culinary adventure that could last a lifetime.
- Cathedrals: Discover architectural marvels like Sainte-Clotilde Basilica and Cathédrale Notre-Dame (note: Notre-Dame is currently closed for restoration as of May 2019).
- Catacombs: Take a tour or explore the 1.25-mile route independently.
- Covered Passages: Browse art galleries and antique shops in Passage des Panoramas, Passage Brady, Passage Verdeau, Passage du Caire, Galerie Vivienne, Galerie Véro-Dodat, Passage du Grand-Cerf, and Galerie Colbert.
- Cinema: Watch a French film at Cinéma du Panthéon, Le Grand Rex, or La Pagode.
What to Do in France During the Fall
With cooler temperatures in September and October, fall is a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors. It’s perfect for hiking in France’s scenic landscapes, including the Chamonix Valley in the French Alps, home to Mont Blanc, and the Verdon Gorge in Provence, often referred to as France’s “Grand Canyon.” Fall is also harvest time for wine grapes, making it an ideal season to visit vineyards in Bordeaux and other French wine regions for a vibrant and festive experience. If you want to experience France’s famous wine harvest, the ideal time to visit France is in the fall. For a classic Parisian experience with fewer tourists, the ideal time to visit France is in early spring or late fall.
What to Do in France During Winter
Winter is another peak travel season in France, with the Christmas and New Year’s holidays bringing both charm and high costs. French cities are lively with Christmas markets and festive shopping. For a quieter experience, visit these markets in late November before the holiday rush begins. The ideal time to visit France for a winter sports vacation is from December to March when the ski resorts are in full swing.
Late November and early December are also great for skiing, with many of France’s world-renowned ski resorts offering thousands of kilometers of slopes suitable for all levels. If you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, the ideal time to visit France is during the autumn months of September and October. While the pastes can get crowded during the holidays, the ski season typically extends until late April or early May, providing ample opportunity to enjoy the slopes without the peak season crowds. To make the most of outdoor activities and festivals, the ideal time to visit France is during the summer months of July and August.
Travel Tips for the Off-Season
Traveling during the off-season can help you save on costs and avoid crowds. Using a short-term lease for your car rather than a traditional rental can offer significant savings. Having your own vehicle also allows you to manage your schedule, visit popular attractions before the tourist buses arrive, or linger after they leave, enhancing your overall travel experience.
