When is the best time to travel to France?

best time to travel to France

France is a much-loved travel destination thanks to its sophisticated culture, fine wines and Mediterranean coastline. There is truly something to satisfy any traveler here. It’s good to know when the best time to travel to France is so you can make the most of your visit to la République française!

Best time to visit Paris

Paris, the city of light, fashion and fine dining. Visiting Paris is on the bucket list of many travelers, who long to see the iconic Eiffel Tower with their own eyes. Like any city, you can enjoy a trip to Paris at any time of the year. With that said, many people like to visit Paris during the summer as nothing compares to this cosmopolitan city on balmy evenings in July and August. This is also the most popular time of year, so you’re likely to find crowds and long ques for the best-known sightseeing attractions.

On the other hand, a number of outdoor concerts and the beaches along the banks of the River Seine can be enjoyed during the summer. Many Parisians leave the city to escape the hustle and bustle of summer crowds so we suggest visiting during the spring and fall. At these times of the year, there are fewer tourists and a better chance to experience authentic Paris.

visiting Paris

Best time to travel to the French Riviera

The French Riviera, where you can sip on ice-cold glasses of Côtes de Provence wine and enjoy the aromas of pine cones and fresh lavender! The French Riviera was famously a favourite destination for Hollywood jet setters in the 1960s and retains it’s popularity today. This dreamy destination combines the pleasures of sophisticated French cuisine and culture with the crystalline waters of the Mediterranean.

The best time to travel to the South of France is during the months of June, July and August. During the summer you can guarantee beautiful Mediterranean sunshine. This is the perfect time of year to enjoy the beach, al fresco dining and bathing in the sea. In the winter, parts of the French Riviera become quiet, but cities such as Cannes, Nice and Monaco are still worth visiting, even when the weather is cooler. September and October are often said to be the best time of the year to visit the French Riviera as the weather is still very pleasant and the price of accommodation is much lower than in the high-season.

French Riviera

Best time to visit the Loire Valley

Stretching all the way from the outskirts of Paris to the Atlantic Ocean, the Loire Valley is a popular destination, home to vineyards, historic chateaux and exceptional natural beauty. The best time to visit the Loire Valley is from April to June or from September to November. Spring and fall are perfect for enjoying the great outdoors without the strong summer sun or crowds. The breeze that travels from the Atlantic ensures a temperate climate all year round so there is never a bad time to visit the Loire Valley. The only thing to keep in mind is that some of the chateaux and vineyards close their doors during the winter season for renovations.

lavender in the Loire Valley

Best time to travel to the French Alps

To know the best time of year to visit the French Alps, you will have to take into account the reason for traveling. If you want to go skiing, the ski resorts in the region open around mid-December. At this time the snow becomes thick enough for winter sports and temperatures drop below 0 degrees Celsius. This snow cover generally lasts until the end of March so there is plenty of time to enjoy this winter wonderland. On the other hand, if you want to visit the French Alps during the spring and summer, you can enjoy all manner of outdoor sports. Canoeing, rock climbing, hiking and lake swimming are particularly popular. Fall in the Alps is best known for its beautiful fall leaves, which transform into a stunning palette of gold and orange.

best time to travel to the French Alps

An excellent vacation destination, the best time to travel to France depends on where you are going. If you’re inspired to choose a trip to France, take a look at our latest vacations to France.

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