Best Time to Visit France

When is the best time of year to visit France?

The best time to travel to France depends on the kinds of experiences and activities you’d like to do on your trip. 

During the spring, temperatures rise and the sun comes out, ideal conditions for visiting the cities, countryside or even the French coastline. Alternatively, if you’re looking to travel to France for its skiing, winter is the best time of year to visit Alpine hotspots and experience some of the best skiing conditions in Europe.

If you’re wondering when the best time to visit Paris is, we’d recommend spring as the ideal season, allowing you the chance to enjoy warm weather and sunshine as you meander through the streets of Montmartre or take a stroll along the Seine. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, a winter trip to Paris can be equally as enjoyable - just don’t forget to bring your umbrella and warm layers!

No matter when you’d like to travel, our experts will gladly create a uniquely customized itinerary for your trip so you can just sit back, relax and enjoy your time in France.

Usually, spring (March to May), summer (June-August) and fall (September to November) are the best times to travel to France to make the most of everything the country has to offer in pleasant climates. As temperatures begin to rise and towns and countryside regions come back to life after the winter, spring is often thought to be the best time to visit destinations across France. If you’d prefer to travel in the summer, we’re happy to help you plan your trip, but be prepared for plenty of tourists and high temperatures, especially in the cities. 

With temperatures in the 60s and 70s across most of the country, spring is one of the best times of year to travel to France, especially Paris. Known as the ‘City of Lights’, this cosmopolitan capital has something for everyone to enjoy, particularly its excellent local cuisine and buzzy cafe culture. However, if you want the French city experience without the crowds, we suggest a visit to the beautiful city of Lyon. This UNESCO world heritage center boasts scenic historical and architectural landmarks alongside some of the best restaurants in France.

Spring is also a great time to visit countryside locations such as the Loire Valley. This charming region is home to enchanting villages, rustic vineyards and over 300 amazing chateaux, all just waiting to be explored. 

Summer in France means warm temperatures and glorious weather throughout the country, especially along the Mediterranean coast.

During the summer months, the South of France is a popular destination complete with rolling countryside and a sparkling coastline, perfect for soaking up the sunshine. Spend your time basking on a stunning beach along the glitzy Côte D’Azur or visit the lavender fields of Provence and gaze out across the colorful countryside as you explore the region’s picturesque towns and villages. 

In northern France, Normandy is also an ideal summer destination, with cooler yet still sunny conditions. Explore historic ports, sandy beaches and ancient cathedrals and then end your day with a delicious meal at one of the region’s gastronomic hotspots.

Fall in France

Much like the spring, fall is one the best times of year to visit France to enjoy both its lively cities and charming countryside towns and villages.

As crowds begin to die down and temperatures remain pleasant, September to November is a good time to visit regions in central France like Burgundy. Drive through scenic towns, explore beautiful chateaux or sample some of the most famous French cheeses in the villages where they are made - the choice is yours.

Fall is also the best time to visit regions like Champagne and Bordeaux as the grapes are harvested to be made into wine. Now is the time to take a tour of the vineyards and sample some of the best French wines.

Winter in France

If you’re planning a visit to France during the winter, a trip to the Alps is a must. 

Alongside renowned locations like Chamonix and Val d’Isère, there are many charming skiing destinations across France that are worth visiting. The chic resort of Megève guarantees some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Alps while the lively resort of Mèribel - part of the famous Trois Vallées - provides immaculately groomed runs and a buzzy après ski scene for the perfect end to a day on the slopes. Even if you aren’t one for winter sports, the regions themselves are simply stunning and offer plenty of other things to do, including spa days and shopping. We have a range of luxury accommodation options at some of the best resorts across the French Alps to help you add the finishing touches to your vacation. 

If snowy conditions aren’t for you, how about a winter trip to glamorous Monaco? Attractions in this sovereign city-state include the lavish Grand Casino, streets full of designer boutiques and luxurious restaurants and bars, all perfect distractions while escaping the cold and rainy French winter...