Best time to visit France

This large country has the lot - soaring mountains, beaches, river valleys, wide plains - with a variety of weather conditions to match.

France by month

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Top France destinations

Below are the temperatures expected today at popular destinations in France. Select a destination to compare today's forecast with average weather conditions.

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When is the best time to visit France?

The best time to visit France (Paris) is July based on the following average weather conditions.

Maximum daytime temperature = 22 - 30°C [remove]
Daily hours of sunshine = 10 hours or more [remove]

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Max Day Temperature (°C)

  • 6°C maximum daytime temperature in January in France (Paris)6
    Jan
  • 7°C maximum daytime temperature in February in France (Paris)7
    Feb
  • 11°C maximum daytime temperature in March in France (Paris)11
    Mar
  • 14°C maximum daytime temperature in April in France (Paris)14
    Apr
  • 18°C maximum daytime temperature in May in France (Paris)18
    May
  • 21°C maximum daytime temperature in June in France (Paris)21
    Jun
  • 24°C maximum daytime temperature in July in France (Paris)24
    Jul
  • 23°C maximum daytime temperature in August in France (Paris)23
    Aug
  • 20°C maximum daytime temperature in September in France (Paris)20
    Sep
  • 16°C maximum daytime temperature in October in France (Paris)16
    Oct
  • 10°C maximum daytime temperature in November in France (Paris)10
    Nov
  • 7°C maximum daytime temperature in December in France (Paris)7
    Dec

Hours of Sunshine (daily)

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Best time to visit

The weather guide for France (Paris) shows long term weather averages processed from data supplied by CRU (University of East Anglia) & today's weather forecast provided by meteoblue. Find out more about our data sources.

Metric (°C / mm)  |  Imperial (°F / inches)

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France weather overview

In the north and west of France, you will find a maritime climate with warm to hot summers and cool but mild winters. However rain can be a nuisance at any time of year, so go prepared.

The lower parts of Central and Eastern France suffer colder winters but have warmer summers than the north. Rain falls mainly in the summer and can be accompanied by dramatic storms.

Up in the mountains, the snowy winters are a joy for skiers but heavy autumn rains can make life miserable in the Pyrenees. In the Vosges, Jura and the Northern Alps, summer days can also be rained off.

The Southern Alps, the Pyrenees and parts of the Massif Central enjoy sunnier summers interspersed with sudden, and short-lived, bouts of rain and thunder. In the summer, the valleys are sunnier than the mountain tops which are often shrouded in cloud. In winter, it is the other way round.

Sun lovers should head for south western France or the Mediterranean coast. Summers in these regions are hot and sunny and winters are mild but be prepared for short but heavy bursts of summer rain and occasional storms.

If you are on the Mediterranean coast in spring, brace yourself for the occasional arrival of the Mistral, a cold and blustery wind which disrupts the normally balmy weather.

What to pack for France weather

In most parts of France you can base a summer travel wardrobe around light clothes, supplemented with heavier wraps for chilly spells, and rainwear. In the mountains, warm clothing is recommended, with ski wear in winter.

Which is the hottest month in France?

The hottest time of year in Paris, France is normally July. Expect maximum daytime temperatures to reach 24°C.

Which month has the most rain in France?

In terms of rainfall, May is usually the wettest month in Paris, France with 62mm on average. There are normally 15 days in May with some rain.

When is it sunniest in France?

The sunniest time of year in Paris, France is normally August with bright sunshine on average for 50% of daylight hours; that's 7 hours of sunshine per day.

France travel features

Do you want to learn more about France? Read our latest features covering travel tips and insider destination guides on where to go and what to do in France.

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