Travelling in France – Winter or Summer? Mix it up!!
As a veteran of travelling in France (first trip 1989 – most recent trip was 2011), I thought I’d do a weighing up of the seasons in France. France is one of those countries that you can visit any time of year, whether it’s high or low season and still find most of the touristy stuff is open, and still love it when it’s not. The most popular time to visit is generally throughout the summer. The last time I worked in Europe, I spent almost an entire summer in and out of France working on the cross channel ferries! But with the snowy Alps not far away, the ski resorts are often packed during the cold winter months as well. I was actually quite surprised that France gets cold in the winter. On my last trip I was actually in Paris in October, and even then a winter chill was evident at Montmartre.
Winter time in France offers quiet restaurants…or ski resorts.
Winter in France
The most obvious winter destination in France is the Alps, thanks to their world-class luxury ski resorts. You may even get the chance to visit some other spectacular mountains in countries nearby, as there are many resorts which are just a stone’s throw from the Italian and Swiss borders. Throw Andorra and Liechtenstein into the mix and there’s a few more options. I haven’t yet made it to micro states Andorra or Monaco by the way…
The countryside of France looks pretty in Winter with its fair share of snow.
Whether you are looking for a family-friendly resort like Avoriaz, or somewhere that matches your sense of adventure, say L’Alpe d’Huez La Sarenne, you’ll find it in the French Alps.
Paris metro…yes the exit for Tour Eiffel.
Although skiing is a highly popular choice for winter breaks, those that would rather stay on two feet can take advantage of the quiet season and explore the rest of the country. Exactly my type of off the beaten track ventures!
Partying in Paris – cocktails!
The capital city is a fantastic place to visit during the cold months. Although the weather won’t be too kind – expect low temperatures and plenty of rain – Paris looks as beautiful as ever. You’ll immediately feel at home as the city is populated by the locals during the winter. Embrace the culture and visit all the museums, galleries and attractions you’ve always wanted to, just without the ridiculous queues.
Inside the Louvre, Paris back in my earlier backpacking days.
Summer in France
Paris is a completely different place in the summer as it becomes swamped with tourists, but it still makes for an amazing experience. I met a load of other travellers in Paris and had a few too many late nights.
On the way to the top of the Eiffel Tower with my travel buddy (and ex workmate Rene). In summer time.
In the early summer months, it’s a safer bet to stick to the Mediterranean climate of the south of France. Somewhere like Corsica is a great option if you want a location that represents the region at its best.
Another mega night out in Paris!
At the height of summer though, lots of people are looking to find a luxury beach holiday to get away from the big cities. Somewhere like Opio en Provence in the south-west is perfect for relaxing in the sunshine. If you would rather stay active on your summer holiday, Pompadour in central France has plenty of activities, from horse riding to swimming and tennis.
I also escaped Paris in the summer for the beaches down on the south coast of France, as well as on the West coast. This was taken in Marseille.
France is such a varied country that it can be fully appreciated all year round, depending on what you want to get from your holiday. Either way, take a look at the incredible Alps and beach resorts with Club Med luxury holidays. Worth splashing out a bit sometimes you know…check me out in Marseille harbour below. And I wont’ mention anything about “Paris in the springtime”.
Loving a few days of luxury on the south coast of France before I became a budget backpacker!
Safe travels guys from Campeigne and Cherbourg in France a few years back, I’m off to Chongqing in China now!!
A few of my videos from France in the different seasons:
Me in Paris in 2011:
Me in Paris in Summertime in 2007:
On a train from Paris to Marseille:
Great post. Having lived in both Paris and Nantes, I’d have to say my favorite times are Spring and Fall. The weather is quite nice during these seasons, and you don’t get the swarms of tourists. Though France is great year-round, many people take extended holidays in August. As a result, you have to do your homework as many great restaurants and shops close.
Thomas Dembie recently posted…8 Things I Can’t Wait To Do In Italy This Summer
Hi Thomas, thanks for the comment – love connecting with other travel blogs!! I was last in France in 2011 – planning to do it again sometime soon, maybe a wine tour. I still speak a bit of French! Safe travels, Jonny
I prefer France in the cold months, especially in the autumn. It is a great way to escape the heat and the crowds of tourists. 🙂
Milena Yordanova recently posted…Climbing Cherni Vrah in Vitosha Mountain
Hi Milena, thanks for the comment. I see you are from Sofia in Bulgaria, I was there last year. Safe travels. Jonny
Appreciate your post; your travel experiences are inspiring!
For city tours and urban attractions, or a first visit, I would recommend visiting during the summer season, or spring.
French cities are very beautiful during the cold season but the weather won’t be enough forgiving and encouraging for mobility, even though it can get quite sporadic even at summer time.
Winter time is ultimately ski time!
Hi Frederic thanks for the comment. I was back in France recently too but it was in Summer for the Euro 2016 tournament. Not one of my favourite countries but we always end up going back. Safe travels. Jonny
You really choose the best places in Europe to travel. That’s an amazing place to visit with pictures,I totally start packing weeks in advance of a big trip! Thanks for sharing it and keep it up as i check your posts frequently!
Great article!!! reading this makes me wanna go there for a holiday this year
Hi Khourshem, thanks for the comments about France and Safe travels. Jonny
Hi Seera, France is OK but I much prefer Poland to travel in. Safe travels. Jonny