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Best Time to Visit France from India

The best time to visit France is spring (April – June) or fall (September – November). France has a moderate climate, although it varies by region. The temperatures during spring usually range from 13°C to 20°C, and the temperatures during fall are usually 16°C to 25°C.

People visit France to discover the country's rich natural and architectural heritage. It is the most popular tourist destination in the world, with around 90 million annual visits. Read to know about the best season to visit France.

Best Months/Seasons to Visit France

Knowing the details of each season of the country you’re visiting makes trip planning much easier. Follow the details below to plan your trip to France:

Month Average Temperature Description
March-May (Spring Season) 13 to 20 degrees Celsius March to May typically sees moderate rainfall across most of France. Temperatures gradually warm up throughout the month.

Popular events during this time: Festival Tomorrowland, Pâques or Easter, and Poisson d'avril.
June-August (Summer Season) 15 to 25 degrees Celsius Summer in France is delightful, with warm weather, vibrant festivals, and bustling outdoor markets. June to August is generally the driest period in France.

Popular events during this time: Saint-Denis Festival, Carcassonne Festival, and The Cabourg Film Festival
September-November (Autumn Season) 8 to 15 degrees Celsius The countryside transforms into a palette of reds, oranges, and yellows. The weather becomes cooler, and rainfall increases gradually as the season progresses.

Popular events during this time: La Gacilly Photo Festival, Les Voiles de Saint Tropez, and the International Garden Festival.
December-February (Winter Season) 3 to 8 degrees Celsius December to February tends to have more frequent rainfall, especially in northern and western regions. In mountainous areas, this precipitation often falls as snow.

Popular events during this time: Vars en Scène, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve.

March-May (Spring Season)

Spring in France is a wonderful time when the country comes alive with blooming flowers, milder temperatures, and various outdoor activities.

Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to France:

Weather Pleasant 
Temperature 13°C to  20°C 
Season Moderate to peak 
Season for Localities Festival Tomorrowland, Pâques or Easter, Poisson d'avril
Key Highlights
  • Witness the beauty of cherry blossoms in Parc de Sceaux near Paris or Jardin des Plantes in Lyon
  • Explore vineyards in regions like Bordeaux, Burgundy, or Alsace as the vines begin to bud
  • Try outdoor sports such as golf, tennis, or boating in scenic settings like the French Riviera or the Loire Valley

June-August (Summer Season)

The countryside in France is lush and green, perfect for exploring vineyards and picturesque villages. Coastal regions like the French Riviera attract visitors with beautiful beaches and a glamorous atmosphere.

Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to France:

Weather Pleasant to warm
Temperature 15°C to  25°C
Season Peak
Season for Localities Saint-Denis Festival, Carcassonne Festival, The Cabourg Film Festival
Key Highlights
  • Explore fashionable boutiques in cities like Paris or Lyon
  • Discover charming villages like Gordes in Provence, Colmar in Alsace, or Honfleur in Normandy
  • Hike in the Alps or Pyrenees mountains or cycle through the Loire Valley

September-November (Autumn Season)

Autumn in France offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and culinary delights, making it an enchanting time to explore the country.

Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to France:

Weather Cool
Temperature 8°C to 15°C
Season Moderate
Season for Localities La Gacilly Photo Festival, Les Voiles de Saint Tropez, International Garden Festival
Key Highlights
  • Join guided mushroom foraging tours in forests like the Fontainebleau Forest near Paris or the Ardennes
  • Participate in grape harvest activities (vendanges) in famous wine regions such as Bordeaux, Burgundy
  • Witness the vibrant colours of autumn leaves in regions like the Loire Valley, Alsace, or Burgundy

December-February (Winter Season)

Winter in France offers a unique and charming experience with its festive atmosphere, winter sports opportunities, and cosy cultural pursuits.

Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to France:

Weather Cold 
Temperature 3°C to 8°C
Season Off 
Season for Localities Vars en Scène, Christmas, New Year’s Eve
Key Highlights
  • Head to the French Alps, Pyrenees, or Vosges Mountains for world-class skiing and snowboarding
  • Glide on outdoor ice skating rinks in the Eiffel Tower in Paris and City Hall in Lyon
  • Explore scenic trails through snowy landscapes in regions like the Jura Mountains

When to Avoid Visiting France?

Visiting France can be an excellent experience throughout much of the year, but there are times when certain factors might make it less ideal for tourists.

Months to Avoid Reason
December-February (Winter Season)
  • In France, snowfall is widespread, particularly in the winter. Major cities and lowland areas also get snow, but usually less and less often. People who want to engage in outdoor activities would only appreciate travelling during the winter if it's primarily rainy and cold.
  • There are roughly 8 hours of daylight in Paris in late December. Stores and museums may frequently have shortened hours of operation. However, tourists can enjoy the winter festivals and Christmas celebrations in France. The prices are lower due to the off-season.

Seasonal Travel Costs of Visiting France from India

Travelling to France from India can vary in affordability depending on the time of year. Here's a general overview of how costs for flights and hotels can differ across different months or seasons:

Season Average Flight Cost Average Hotel Cost per Night Description
March-May (Spring Season) ₹24,000 - ₹38,000 ₹5,000 - ₹6,500 High to moderate prices; the season experiences cool to warm temperatures. Tourists can experience the colourful spring season and the transition in season.
June-August (Summer Season) ₹26,000 - ₹38,000 ₹5,000 - ₹7,000 Highest prices; the season experiences warm, pleasant weather with no rain. Thousands of tourists can visit Paris, which is very crowded. 
September-November (Autumn Season) ₹24,000 - ₹32,000 ₹3,000 - ₹6,000 Moderate prices; the transitioning season becomes cold as winter sets in. The landscape becomes colourful due to the foliage.
December-February (Winter Season) ₹19,000 - ₹32,000 ₹3,000 - ₹4,000 Low prices due to the cold and rain. Outdoor activities like skiing and snowboarding are popular in the north. Some sites are closed due to the off-season.

Things to Know Before Visiting France

Entering a new country always seems like entering a whole different world. However, there are some things you should be aware of and plan beforehand. Some of them are:

  • Learn the basics of the French language. It is basic etiquette in France for even tourists to know a little bit of French.
  • Cash is king here. Many small businesses here run on cash transactions only. So remember to keep cash in handy.
  • Talk in a low tone to avoid drawing unwanted attention.
  • Know the meal times in France, since most places are only open during these hours.
  • Be aware of the toll charges in France.
  • Ridesharing is commonplace in France. You can choose this as an economical option to get around.
  • Carry a travel adapter with you.
  • Get to know which areas in France you should avoid.
  • It is a good idea to get a travel insurance policy.
  • Find out the details of the Indian Embassies/Consulates in France.

Tips for Travelling in France

Every country has their own set of social customs, rules and dangers. France is no exception. There are certain things to keep in mind during your travels there. Some of them are:

  • Always keep an eye on your wallet and avoid keeping it in your back pocket. Pickpockets are always swarming famous places in France.
  • Avail the efficient railway services which France provides. It is an economical means to get around France.
  • Keep your passport and ID on you at all times. Security checks take place at specific venues. They require you to show your identification.
  • Indulge in the local cuisines, and don’t forget to pair cheese and wine.
  • Remember to dress well to blend in with the locals. Do not look like a tourist.
  • Visit outdoor markets and shop at them. Local vendors here sell products at very affordable prices.
  • The emergency phone number in France is 112. Keep it with you in case of an emergency.
  • Remember that in France, people live their lives at a slow pace. So the service is usually slow.
  • Public Restrooms typically charge a fee of up to €1.50. They are rarely free of cost.
  • There are pharmacies located in every corner of France. They also sell luxury beauty products. Make sure to stock up.

What Phrases Should You Know Before Travelling to France?

French people prefer speaking their mother tongue instead of English. Here are some phrases which you would find useful during your journey in France:

English French
Hello/Good Morning!  Bonjour!
Do you speak English?  Parlez-vous anglais?
Thank you/Thank you very much!  Merci/Merci beaucoup!
Can you help me?  Pourriez-vous m’aider?
I don’t understand  Je ne comprends pas
Where are the toilets?  Où sont des toilettes?
I am searching for the metro/train station  Je cherche le métro/le gare
Where are the shops?  Où sont les magasins?
How much does it cost?  Combien ça coûte?
I would like some water  Je voudrais de l’eau
My name is  Je m'appelle
Water Eau
Go Allez
Stop Arrêtez
Turn right Tournez à droite
Turn left Tournez à gauche
Wine Vin
0 Zéro
Un
2 Deuz
3 Trois 
4 Quatre 
5 Cinq
6 Six 
7 Sept
8 Huit
9 Neuf
10 Dix

 

Learning a few essential French words and phrases before you travel to France from India will help you a lot. While you are there, you should always try to initiate conversations in French instead of English. This is considered basic politeness in France and shows that you respect their language and culture.

France has a lot to offer throughout the year. From events such as Paris Fashion Week during spring to visiting vineyards in the countryside during fall. From attending vibrant music festivals during the summer to shopping at Christmas markets during winter. There is no time which isn’t the best time to visit France.

FAQs about Best Time to Visit France

What is the peak season in France?

The peak tourist season in France typically occurs during the summer months, especially June and August. This period sees the highest number of tourists due to warm weather, school vacations across Europe, and numerous festivals and events.

What is the moderate season in France?

The moderate or shoulder season falls during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these times, the weather is still pleasant.

What is the off-season in France?

The off-season in France generally coincides with winter (December to February). This time, fewer tourists, colder weather, shorter daylight hours, and some attractions may have reduced opening hours.

When is the best time to visit France?

The best time to visit France depends on your preferences. Summer (June-August) is ideal for warm weather, festivals, and outdoor activities. Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) have mild weather, fewer tourists, and vibrant landscapes.

Which month is ideal for Nice, France?

The shoulder seasons of September to October and mid-March to April are the ideal times to visit Nice because of the sunny weather, reduced crowds, and affordable hotel rates.

What are the advantages of visiting France in spring and autumn?

The advantages in spring are mild weather, fewer tourists, and a chance to experience local culture and festivals without the peak crowds.

Are there specific events or festivals that are worth planning around?

Yes, there are various events and festivals, such as the Cannes Film Festival (May), Tour de France (July), and Christmas markets (December).

Is there a particular region in France that is best to visit during a certain season?

Yes, Provence is famous for its lavender fields in spring, and Alsace is known for its Christmas markets in December.

What should I pack for each season in France?

Layers are key year-round, with lighter clothing for summer and warmer layers for winter. Pack clothing according to the season.

Are there any weather-related considerations I should be aware of?

Yes, coastal regions are cooler in summer due to sea breezes, while mountainous areas are colder in winter.

Is it necessary to book accommodation in advance during peak season?

Yes, booking in advance is recommended, especially in popular tourist destinations and the peak summer season.

How can I avoid crowds while visiting popular attractions?

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, especially during peak season, to avoid crowds.

Is France expensive to visit?

Yes, France can be moderately expensive, especially in major cities like Paris. Accommodation, dining, and attractions costs can vary widely depending on the region and season.

When to go to Paris?

The best time to visit Paris is spring (March-May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant.

Do Indians need a visa for France?

Yes, Indian citizens need a visa to visit France. Before travelling, they must apply for a Schengen visa, which allows them to visit France and other Schengen Area countries.

Which month is there snow in France?

Snowfall in France varies by region and altitude. Generally, the winter months from December to February are when you'll find snow in the French Alps and other mountainous areas.

Which month is good for France?

The best months to visit France are typically March to August and September to November when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds than in the peak summer months.

Why is France worth visiting?

France is worth visiting for its rich history, culture, art, architecture, food, wine, and diverse landscapes ranging from stunning coastlines to picturesque countryside and majestic mountains.

Is Paris worth visiting?

Yes, Paris is worth visiting for its iconic landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, charming neighbourhoods, and vibrant cultural scene.

Is Paris hot or cold?

Paris experiences a temperate climate with mild summers (June to August) and cold winters (December to February). Spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant.

Is it safe to go to Paris at night?

Yes, central Paris and popular tourist areas are safe to visit at night, but it's always wise to take standard precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Is France good for nightlife?

Yes, France, especially cities like Paris, Lyon, Marseille, and Nice, has a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, theatres, and live music venues.

What is the speciality of France?

France is renowned for its cuisine (especially bread, cheeses, and pastries), wines (like Bordeaux and Champagne), fashion (Paris is a global fashion capital), art (including Impressionist painters), and architecture.

What is the most visited place in France?

The most visited place in France is the Eiffel Tower in Paris, followed by other popular attractions like the Louvre Museum and the Palace of Versailles.

What is the prettiest place in France?

France is home to many picturesque places. Some of the prettiest include Provence (known for lavender fields), the French Riviera (with its glamorous coastline), and the Loire Valley (famous for its châteaux and vineyards).

What to buy from Paris, France?

Popular souvenirs from Paris include French perfume, fashion items from designer boutiques or department stores, gourmet foods like chocolates and macarons, and local crafts such as pottery or art.

What foods is France famous for?

France is famous for its cuisine, including dishes like croissants, baguettes, cheese (such as Brie and Camembert), escargot, coq au vin, bouillabaisse, and of course, French wines and desserts like crème brûlée and tarte Tatin.

What are 5 facts about France?

Here are five facts about France:

  • France is the largest country in the European Union regarding land area.
  • French is the official language, and Paris is the capital city.
  • France is known for its high fashion and luxury goods industry.
  • It has a rich cultural heritage with influential artists, writers, and philosophers.
  • France is one of the top tourist destinations globally, attracting millions yearly visitors.

Is France good for shopping?

Yes, France is excellent for shopping, especially in cities like Paris, where you can find everything from haute couture and luxury brands to boutique shops, markets, and department stores offering a wide range of products from fashion to gourmet foods.