AD. France has always been a popular summer holiday destination. With its perfect balance of romantic scenery, exquisite cuisine and grand architecture, it’s no wonder it’s considered one of the best countries in the world. There is something for every traveller, from the glamour of the Riviera to the historic charm of Provence. But when exactly is the best time to visit France? Well, the answer depends on what you’re looking to get from your getaway and what part of the country you’re jetting off to.
[Photo by JOHN TOWNER on Unsplash]
For beach lounging and breathtaking coastlines, the South of France is home to gems such as Nice and Saint-Tropez. If city exploring and fairytale-like panoramas are more your thing, Northern locations like Lille and Champagne will tickle your fancy. Foodies will be in their element in the gastronomy capitals of Paris and Marseilles.
As you can see, there’s a lot to consider when planning a trip to France. Luckily, we’ve put together the best times for scheduling a summer break.
When Is the Best Time to Visit France?
Late Spring to Early Summer (May – June)
This shoulder season is one of the best periods to plan luxury holidays, thanks to the pleasant temperatures and smaller crowds. You can stroll around busy attractions like the Champs-Élysées and Eiffel Tower in Paris without being swamped by the overbearing heat or big groups of tourists.
The countryside is lush and abloom, making it ideal for staying in countryside châteaux, wine tasting in vineyards and exploring coastal towns.
You should find it easy to make reservations at restaurants and many highly rated resorts drop their rates around this time. This means you can free up your budget to enjoy lavish experiences such as Michelin-starred dinners or exclusive spa treatments.
Peak Summer (July – August)
Ideal for the sun worshippers amongst us, the quintessential summer months in France are undeniably vibrant. The Riviera explodes with glamourous parties, bustling beaches and opulent yachts, making it best suited to those looking for seaside getaways, water activities and a lively atmosphere.
There is also an exciting variety of cultural festivals scheduled during this period, including the Tour de France and Cannes Film Festival. This increases your likelihood of spotting celebrities that like to holiday in the south of France.
It is amongst the busiest periods for the country so be prepared to book in advance to secure the best hotels and experiences. This may also mean that rates are a little pricier than usual too.
Early Autumn (September – October)
For a luxurious escape that combines warm days with peace and quiet, early autumn is a hidden gem. Your afternoons will still be pleasant but with just a touch of coolness in the evenings, creating perfect conditions for exploring cities and hiking.
There are fewer tourists, making it easier to get bookings at popular eateries and accommodations. In particular, this part of the year is great for wine tours as the grape harvest season begins. Regions like Bordeaux and Burgundy will be aflush with wine connoisseurs so don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit if you count yourself among them.
Compared to the peak summer months, you’ll be enjoying lower prices and more availability. With that in mind though, it’s always advisable to book in advance to avoid any disappointment.
