Looking to visit or planning a move to France, and wondering what the weather is like? This guide will get you familiarized with the French climate for every month of the year, so you can plan and pack accordingly.
France is a large country with a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations. The weather tends to be colder with snowy winters in the northern and central regions of France, while in the South of France the weather is warm and sunny for most of the year, making it a popular retirement destination.
The hottest months of the year occur in July and August when temperatures can reach up to 83°F. However, during January and February, France experiences its coldest weather as temperatures drop down to around 31°F.
Generally speaking, rainfall is relatively evenly spread out throughout the year except for December and January when it peaks at an average of 12.3 days per month whereas July sees only around 1.8 days per month on average. On a positive note though one can expect between 1700-1800 hours of total sunlight each year.
Weather in France in January
January weather in France is mostly cold with average high temperatures of 53°F and lows around freezing at 31°F. This month has a higher chance of rainfall, but the amount varies from an estimated highest level of about 12.3 days to less than 4.9 rainy days.
Visitors can expect moist conditions, especially towards Paris or Brittany where it’s rainier compared to other locations like Nice that remain dry for the most part during this time – perfect for winter sports fans. Despite being chilly outside, January offers unique experiences such as skiing holidays on its alpine resorts or admiring street art scenes along cities’ sidewalks coated by frosty phenomena.
France’s weather in February
France experiences chilly weather in February, with the average high temperature being around 54°F and lows of approximately 31°F. The country also witnesses varying levels of rainfall during this time, ranging from about 4.3 to as much as 9.4 days throughout the month.
Despite the cold temperatures and the possibility of precipitation, visitors can still enjoy their time in France by bundling up warmly while sightseeing or sampling some traditional French cuisine indoors at one of many cozy cafes or restaurants scattered throughout the different towns.
March weather in France
Living in France has its benefits any month of the year, but springtime is particularly enjoyable, as the entire country comes alive. March weather in France is quite moderate with the temperature ranging from 36°F to 59°F. However, it can also be accompanied by rainfall which varies between a high of 8.8 days and a low of 4.4 days throughout the month.
The snow is melting and the green fields across the French countryside are starting to come back to life. Pretty villages are waiting to be discovered and city streets are slowly opening outdoor cafes.
You should pack for both cooler temperatures as well as rainy conditions during springtime in France. However, they should still be able to enjoy seasonal attractions like spring festivals across Paris, or even skiing in French Alps due to the viable snowfall levels.
Weather in France in April
In April, the weather in France is usually mild with average temperatures ranging between 42°F to 64°F. However, it can still be quite unpredictable and a light jacket or sweater should come in handy during your stay. The rainfall also varies throughout the country with some areas receiving more than others.
The rainfall is expected to be from 5-9 days of rain on average. Regardless of where you are visiting in France during this time, there will be plenty to see and do both indoors and outdoors thanks to its diverse attractions.
Paris is particularly pretty this time of year, with blooming trees lining its boulevards, flower-filled parks and lively streets. When you’re bored, you can spend your time exploring the museums or feasting on delicious croissants at an outdoor cafe.
France’s weather in May
May is a great time to visit France with pleasant temperatures, sunny skies, and not too much rain. With highs reaching around 71°F during the day and lows of about 49°F, it’s perfect for exploring outdoor attractions like wine regions, coastal towns or historic landmarks.
While some parts can be hit by occasional showers, with the highest being at 10.7 days while others experience less frequent precipitations often between 4.7 days in total.
June weather in France
In June, the weather in France is generally warm with an average high of 78°F and a low of 53°F. The highest rainfall typically occurs during this month with approximately 10.3 days of rain expected throughout the country but some areas receive less, such as those receiving only 3.3 days’ worth.
Despite this, visitors still have plenty to do outdoors without being hindered by too much precipitation. Day trips, bus tours and regional tours of France are very popular this time of year.
They can spend their time exploring lush green gardens or strolling through stunning towns and cities at their own leisurely pace. In June, they are able to take pleasure from warmer temperatures than in other periods like winter and springtime when it might get significantly colder.
Weather in France in July
July is a great month to visit France, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The average high temperature throughout the country typically reaches blistering hot at 83°F during this time of year, making it an ideal season for outdoor activities like hiking, driving through the countryside and admiring the lavender fields of Provence.
However, visitors should still bring appropriate clothing as low temperatures may reach around 58°F at night. The rainfall varies during this month, with the lowest at 1.8 days, and the highest at 9.8 days.
France’s weather in August
France experiences a pleasant climate in August, with temperatures ranging from 57°F to 83°F across the country. Despite being summer months and peak tourist season, rainfall is relatively varied during this month with a high of 9.2 days and a low of 2.7 days.
Visitors can expect warm and sunny weather almost throughout France, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as exploring cities like Paris or visiting the lush green vineyards in the Bordeaux region.
September weather in France
France experiences pleasant weather during September. The average high temperature is around 76°F and the low hovers at approximately 51°F, making it comfortable for outdoor activities without being too hot or chilly. Rainfall will vary across different regions in France with some areas receiving higher precipitation than others.
On average, there can be up to 8.2 days of rain in certain parts while other places might witness only about 5 days of rainfall throughout this period. Overall though, September offers wonderful conditions for tourists to explore various attractions that perfectly capture and engage more intimately with French culture and history.
Weather in France in October
October in France can still offer pleasant temperatures, with highs reaching around 69°F. However, the nights will be cooler, and expect lows of approximately 44°F. It is recommended to pack for both warm days and chilly evenings if traveling during this month.
The amount of rainfall varies throughout the country but generally ranges from 7 to 10 days out of October’s total of 31 days. Visitors should bring an umbrella or raincoat just in case they encounter a rainy day while exploring this attractive place.
France’s weather in November
In November, France experiences chilly weather with average high temperatures of 59°F and low temperatures dropping to around 37°F. The country also receives moderate amounts of precipitation during this month, averaging between the lowest rainfall reading at 6.2 days up until a maximum level recorded at approximately 11.3 rainy days.
Overall, anyone planning on visiting or touring France during November should pack warm clothing and bring along rain gear for explorations of historical landmarks like Paris’s Eiffel Tower.
Some locals might suggest sampling traditional soups made from cheese fondue or hot cocoa drinks to beat back the frost of winter due to the unfavorable weather conditions dominating all through wintertime in France.
December weather in France
December weather in France can be quite freezing with the average high temperature being around 54°F and low temperatures dropping to 33°F. It is always advisable to pack warm clothes when planning a trip there during this time of year.
Most of France gets snow this time of year, and the mountainous areas are the main attraction for winter sports enthusiasts. In the milder southern regions, rainfall generally fluctuates between 4-12 days, making it important for travelers to keep an eye on the forecast before scheduling any outdoor activities or sightseeing plans.
Despite these cold conditions though, December marks some fabulous events like Christmas markets and other festivities that make visiting French cities that much more alluring during this wintertime.
