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Voykit

When to go · France

France in January

Mixed month. Cold and grey north of Lyon; the winter sales (soldes) start in January; ski resorts busy at weekends.

Key facts

Verdict
Mixed
Crowds
Low
France
Prices
Low
France

Verdict

MixedVoykit month rating for France

Cold and grey north of Lyon; the winter sales (soldes) start in January; ski resorts busy at weekends.

Is another month better than January?

January is rated mixed. These months rate higher:

Weather in January

  • Paris and the north · Paris, Lille, Champagne, Normandy inlandcool

    Grey, damp winters; late spring and September are the sweet spot. Paris heatwaves hit 35–40 °C (95–104 °F) in July–August and most flats and small hotels lack air conditioning.

  • Atlantic west · Brittany, Normandy coast, Bordeaux, Biarritzrainy

    Rain in any month; mild summers without much heat. The Basque coast is greener and wetter than people expect.

  • Centre and east · Loire, Burgundy, Alsace, Lyon, Dordognecool

    Cold foggy winters and hot summers; Alsace Christmas markets make December busy despite the cold.

  • Mediterranean south · Provence, Riviera, Languedoc, Corsicafine

    Dry and sunny; lavender blooms late June to mid-July. Mistral wind in the Rhône valley; autumn flash floods.

  • Mountains · Chamonix, Annecy, Pyreneescool

    Skiing mid-December to April; hiking and lifts late June to early September. Many resorts close in May and November.

  • Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes: Rhône Valley / Lyon · Lyon, Vienne, Valencecool

    Continental blend; hot summers, cold winters, rain spread through the year.

  • Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes: Alps · Annecy, Chamonix, Grenoblecold

    Mountain weather; snow Dec–Mar at altitude, cool nights even in summer. Conditions change fast — check the forecast before hiking.

  • Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes: Auvergne · Clermont-Ferrand, Massif Centralcold

    Higher and wetter than the valley; volcanoes can be in cloud any month.

  • Continental: warm, dry summers and cold winters. Vineyard work peaks in September harvest.

  • Higher and wetter; snow on the ridges roughly December to March, ski season at Les Rousses.

  • Brittany: Coastal Brittany · Saint-Malo, Roscoff, Quimper, Lorientcool

    Mild and wet year-round; sea breezes keep summer cooler than inland. Rain can arrive any month — pack a shell.

  • Brittany: Inland Brittany · Rennes, Monts d'Arrée, Nantes-Brest Canalcool

    Warmer than the coast in summer, colder in winter; the Monts d'Arrée catch cloud and wind.

  • Centre-Val de Loire: Loire Valley (Tours, Blois, Orléans) · river plain and château clustercool

    Mild and wet year-round; July and August can pass 30 °C (86 °F), spring and early autumn are the best balance of weather and crowds.

  • Corsica: Coastal Corsica · Ajaccio, Calvi, Bastia, Bonifaciocool

    Warm and sunny May–October; July–August is peak and booking is essential.

  • Corsica: Interior mountains · Corte, GR 20, Bavellacold

    Cooler and wetter than the coast; snow and closed passes in winter, storms in summer.

  • Grand Est: Alsace and Lorraine · Rhine valley and Vosgescold

    Continental: cold winters, warm summers. Vosges peaks hold snow Dec–Mar; Route des Crêtes partly closed then.

  • Grand Est: Champagne · Reims, Troyes, Marne valleycold

    Flat and open; vineyards are bare Nov–Mar. Cellar tours run year-round.

  • Hauts-de-France: Lille / inland · Flanders plain and Picardycold

    Oceanic climate; rain any month, grey winters, mild summers. July and August are the warmest and busiest.

  • Windy year-round; sea breezes keep it cooler than inland in summer. Beach weather is June to early September.

  • Snow-sure from December to May; summer lifts run for hiking from late June to early September.

  • Ski season typically December to April; lower slopes may be thin in early December and late April.

  • Normandy: Coastal Normandy · Rouen, Caen, Bayeux, Cotentincool

    Mild, changeable and rainier than most of France; sea breezes keep the coast cooler than inland in summer.

  • Mild and ocean-tempered; summer can still hit 35 °C (95 °F)+ inland, and the coast is busy in July–August.

  • Warmer summers, colder winters; spring and autumn are the quiet, good-value months.

  • Occitanie: Mediterranean coast · Montpellier, Nîmes, Narbonne, Perpignancool

    Dry, warm summers; brief winters with cold winds and rain. Forest fires are a growing summer risk.

  • Occitanie: Atlantic-influenced west · Toulouse, Gers, Tarncool

    Cooler and wetter than the coast.

  • Occitanie: Pyrenees · Hautes-Pyrénées, Ariège, Pyrénées-Orientalescold

    Mountain climate; snow in winter, much more rain than the plains.

  • Pays de la Loire: Nantes and the coast · Atlantic seaboard and estuarycool

    Mild and wet year-round; sea breezes keep summer cooler than inland. Rain arrives in any month.

  • Pays de la Loire: Angers and inland Anjou · Loire valley and vineyardscool

    Warmer and drier than the coast in summer; vine rows turn in late September.

  • Mild winters, hot dry summers; sea warm enough to swim roughly June to October. Rain falls mostly in short autumn bursts.

  • Hotter and colder than the coast; mistral wind in winter and spring. Lavender peaks late June to mid-July.

  • Mountain climate; ski season roughly December to March, hiking June to September.

  • Paris7 °C (45 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 10 rain days
  • Abbeville6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 12 rain days
  • Aigues-Mortes12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 5 rain days
  • Aire-sur-l'Adour11 °C (52 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Aiserey5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 11 rain days
  • Aix-en-Provence11 °C (52 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 6 rain days
  • Aix-les-Bains6 °C (43 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 10 rain days
  • Ajaccio13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 9 rain days
  • Alaigne12 °C (54 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 7 rain days
  • Albert6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 5 rain days
  • Albi10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Alençon7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Aléria12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 7 rain days
  • Alès12 °C (54 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 6 rain days
  • Alpe d'Huez2 °C (36 °F) / -6 °C (21 °F), 10 rain days
  • Amboise7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 12 rain days
  • Amiens6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 11 rain days
  • Angers8 °C (46 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 13 rain days
  • Angoulême9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Annecy5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 10 rain days
  • Annemasse4 °C (39 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 12 rain days
  • Annot9 °C (48 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 6 rain days
  • Antibes13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Apt12 °C (54 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 7 rain days
  • Arcachon10 °C (50 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 8 rain days
  • Arette8 °C (46 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 12 rain days
  • Argentan8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Arles-sur-Tech13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Arles11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Arras6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 12 rain days
  • Arromanches-les-Bains8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Auch10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Auray9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 13 rain days
  • Aurillac7 °C (45 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 10 rain days
  • Autun5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 12 rain days
  • Auxerre6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 12 rain days
  • Avallon6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 11 rain days
  • Avignon10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 6 rain days
  • Avranches9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Azay-le-Rideau8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Bagnères-de-Bigorre8 °C (46 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 12 rain days
  • Bandol13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 6 rain days
  • Bastia13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 8 rain days
  • Bavay6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 12 rain days
  • Bayeux8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 13 rain days
  • Bayonne12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 13 rain days
  • Beaune6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 12 rain days
  • Beauvais5 °C (41 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 7 rain days
  • Bédée9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Belle-Église7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 11 rain days
  • Bergerac10 °C (50 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 5 rain days
  • Besançon5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 12 rain days
  • Beynac-et-Cazenac9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Béziers11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Biarritz12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 14 rain days
  • Bidarray9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 8 rain days
  • Bidart12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 13 rain days
  • Biscarrosse12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 7 rain days
  • Bize Minervois11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 7 rain days
  • Blois7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 11 rain days
  • Bobigny7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Bonifacio13 °C (55 °F) / 7 °C (45 °F), 9 rain days
  • Bordeaux10.5 °C (51 °F) / 3.7 °C (39 °F), 12 rain days
  • Bormes-les-Mimosas13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 5 rain days
  • Boulogne-Billancourt7 °C (45 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Boulogne-sur-Mer8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Bourg-Saint-Maurice4 °C (39 °F) / -2 °C (28 °F), 8 rain days
  • Bourges7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 12 rain days
  • Boutx8 °C (46 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 8 rain days
  • Bouzigues11 °C (52 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 7 rain days
  • Bozel3 °C (37 °F) / -4 °C (25 °F), 9 rain days
  • Brantôme9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Bréhat9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 12 rain days
  • Brens10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Brest9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 12 rain days
  • Breteil9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Briançon5 °C (41 °F) / -4 °C (25 °F), 8 rain days
  • Briatexte10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Brides les Bains3 °C (37 °F) / -5 °C (23 °F), 10 rain days
  • Brive-la-Gaillarde9 °C (48 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 12 rain days
  • Buis-les-Baronnies9 °C (48 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 6 rain days
  • Cadalen10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 9 rain days
  • Caen8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 13 rain days
  • Cagnes-sur-Mer13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 6 rain days
  • Cahors9 °C (48 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 7 rain days
  • Calais7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Calvi13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 8 rain days
  • Cannes13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 6 rain days
  • Carcassonne12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Cargèse12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 8 rain days
  • Carmaux10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Carnac9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Carpentras10 °C (50 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 6 rain days
  • Cassis13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Castelnau-de-Montmiral10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 7 rain days
  • Castillon11 °C (52 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Causses-et-Veyran11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Cavaillon12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 7 rain days
  • Cavalaire-sur-Mer13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 7 rain days
  • Cerbère12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 8 rain days
  • Céret12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 8 rain days
  • Chablis5 °C (41 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 12 rain days
  • Chalon-sur-Saône7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 11 rain days
  • Chambéry6 °C (43 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 10 rain days
  • Chambord6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 9 rain days
  • Chamonix3 °C (37 °F) / -7 °C (19 °F), 10 rain days
  • Chantilly6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 8 rain days
  • Charleville-Mézières5 °C (41 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 12 rain days
  • Chartres7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 11 rain days
  • Château-du-Loir8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Chatel2 °C (36 °F) / -6 °C (21 °F), 10 rain days
  • Châtillon-sur-Seine6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 12 rain days
  • Chenonceaux7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 12 rain days
  • Cherbourg-en-Cotentin8 °C (46 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 14 rain days
  • Chinon7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 8 rain days
  • Clermont-Ferrand7 °C (45 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 10 rain days
  • Clisson8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Cluny5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 10 rain days
  • Collioure13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 7 rain days
  • Colmar4 °C (39 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 10 rain days
  • Conques7 °C (45 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 7 rain days
  • Cordes-sur-Ciel10 °C (50 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 6 rain days
  • Corte12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 12 rain days
  • Cotignac12 °C (54 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 6 rain days
  • Couffouleux9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Courchevel2 °C (36 °F) / -5 °C (23 °F), 8 rain days
  • Coutances8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 13 rain days
  • Deauville8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Die9 °C (48 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 7 rain days
  • Dieppe8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Dijon5 °C (41 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 11 rain days
  • Dinan9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Dinard9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Disneyland Paris7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Divonne-les-Bains5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 12 rain days
  • Dole5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 12 rain days
  • Douai5 °C (41 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 10 rain days
  • Douarnenez9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Dunkirk6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 15 rain days
  • Durfort10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Durtal8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Eguisheim5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 10 rain days
  • Elne13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 5 rain days
  • Épernay7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 10 rain days
  • Épinal5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 12 rain days
  • Époisses6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 12 rain days
  • Étretat8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Euronat12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 9 rain days
  • Evian5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 10 rain days
  • Évreux7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Eygurande-et-Gardedeuil9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Eymet9 °C (48 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 8 rain days
  • Èze13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 5 rain days
  • Falaise8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Fayence12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Figari12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 8 rain days
  • Flaine2 °C (36 °F) / -6 °C (21 °F), 11 rain days
  • Foix9 °C (48 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 7 rain days
  • Fontainebleau7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Fontevrault9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Forbach4 °C (39 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 10 rain days
  • Fraisse-sur-Agout8 °C (46 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 10 rain days
  • Fréjus13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Gaillac10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Gavarnie5 °C (41 °F) / -3 °C (27 °F), 8 rain days
  • Germigny-des-Prés7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 10 rain days
  • Gimel-les-Cascades9 °C (48 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 12 rain days
  • Giroussens10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Giverny7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Gordes11 °C (52 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 6 rain days
  • Granville9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Grasse13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 7 rain days
  • Graulhet10 °C (50 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 7 rain days
  • Grenoble6 °C (43 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 9 rain days
  • Guérande9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 13 rain days
  • Gulf of Porto13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 8 rain days
  • Hendaye13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 13 rain days
  • Honfleur8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Husseren-les-Châteaux5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 8 rain days
  • Hyères13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Iffendic9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 15 rain days
  • Issoudun6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 7 rain days
  • Kaysersberg5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 9 rain days
  • La Bastide-Clairence9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • La Baule9.5 °C (49 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 62 rain days
  • La Charité-sur-Loire6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 12 rain days
  • La Chartre sur le Loir8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • La Ciotat12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 7 rain days
  • La Clusaz2 °C (36 °F) / -6 °C (21 °F), 12 rain days
  • La Nouaye9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • La Plagne2 °C (36 °F) / -8 °C (18 °F), 10 rain days
  • La Rochelle9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 12 rain days
  • La Toussuire-3.5 °C (26 °F) / -11.8 °C (11 °F), 10 rain days
  • La Tremblade9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • La Trinité12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • La Turbie12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 6 rain days
  • Lagorce9 °C (48 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 7 rain days
  • Lagrave7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 7 rain days
  • Lancieux9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 13 rain days
  • Langeais8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Lannion9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 15 rain days
  • Laon5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 7 rain days
  • Larrau9 °C (48 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 8 rain days
  • Lautrec9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Le Bourget6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 7 rain days
  • Le Havre8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 13 rain days
  • Le Lavandou13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 6 rain days
  • Le Mans8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Le Puy-en-Velay7 °C (45 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 12 rain days
  • Le Touquet2.6 °C (37 °F) / 7.6 °C (46 °F), 77 rain days
  • Lens5 °C (41 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 15 rain days
  • Léon12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 12 rain days
  • Les Andelys7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Les Arcs2 °C (36 °F) / -6 °C (21 °F), 12 rain days
  • Les Baux-de-Provence12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 8 rain days
  • Les Deux Alpes5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 6 rain days
  • Les Gets-2 °C (28 °F) / -7 °C (19 °F), 8 rain days
  • Les Sables-d'Olonne9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 7 rain days
  • Lescun9 °C (48 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 8 rain days
  • Leucate12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Levallois-Perret7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Lhomme9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 8 rain days
  • L'Île‑Rousse12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 8 rain days
  • Lille6.6 °C (44 °F) / 1.7 °C (35 °F), 11 rain days
  • Limoges7 °C (45 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 9 rain days
  • Limoux11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 9 rain days
  • Lisieux9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Lisle-sur-Tarn10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Liverdun5 °C (41 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 11 rain days
  • Loches8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Lorient8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Lourdes10 °C (50 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 11 rain days
  • Lourmarin12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 7 rain days
  • Lyon7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 9 rain days
  • Mâcon6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 10 rain days
  • Maintenon7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 11 rain days
  • Maisons-Alfort8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Maisons-Laffitte7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Manosque11 °C (52 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 6 rain days
  • Marciac10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Marne-la-Vallée6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 12 rain days
  • Marseille12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Meaux6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 8 rain days
  • Megève2 °C (36 °F) / -5 °C (23 °F), 8 rain days
  • Melles7 °C (45 °F) / -2 °C (28 °F), 12 rain days
  • Menthon St. Bernard5 °C (41 °F) / -2 °C (28 °F), 10 rain days
  • Menton13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 6 rain days
  • Mérens-les-Vals7 °C (45 °F) / -2 °C (28 °F), 10 rain days
  • Meribel5 °C (41 °F) / -5 °C (23 °F), 12 rain days
  • Mers-les-Bains7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Metz5 °C (41 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 11 rain days
  • Migennes5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 8 rain days
  • Millau7 °C (45 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 12 rain days
  • Mimizan12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 8 rain days
  • Minerve11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Mirande10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Mirepoix/Tarn10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Modane5 °C (41 °F) / -3 °C (27 °F), 7 rain days
  • Moissac12 °C (54 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 8 rain days
  • Molène10 °C (50 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 16 rain days
  • Monpazier9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Mont-de-Marsan11 °C (52 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Mont Dore7 °C (45 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 10 rain days
  • Mont Saint-Michel9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 13 rain days
  • Montfort-sur-Meu9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 13 rain days
  • Montgaillard10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 9 rain days
  • Montignac9 °C (48 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 12 rain days
  • Montolieu12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Montpellier12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Montreuil-sur-Mer7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Montsoreau8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Morillon2 °C (36 °F) / -5 °C (23 °F), 10 rain days
  • Mougins12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Moustiers Sainte Marie10 °C (50 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 6 rain days
  • Mulhouse5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 12 rain days
  • Nancy5 °C (41 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 11 rain days
  • Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne4 °C (39 °F) / -2 °C (28 °F), 12 rain days
  • Nantes9.3 °C (49 °F) / 3.4 °C (38 °F), 12 rain days
  • Narbonne12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Néoules12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Neuf-Brisach5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 9 rain days
  • Neufchâtel-Hardelot7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Nevers8 °C (46 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 10 rain days
  • Nice13 °C (55 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 6 rain days
  • Nîmes12 °C (54 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 6 rain days
  • Niort9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Nogent-le-Rotrou7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Nogent-sur-Marne7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Nonza14 °C (57 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 8 rain days
  • Olargues11 °C (52 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 8 rain days
  • Oradour-sur-Glane8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Orange10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 6 rain days
  • Orgnac l'Aven9 °C (48 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 7 rain days
  • Orléans7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Ostabat-Asme10 °C (50 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 13 rain days
  • Ouistreham8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Paimpol9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 14 rain days
  • Paray-le-Monial7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 11 rain days
  • Pau11 °C (52 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Pechbonnieu10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 9 rain days
  • Peillon12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 7 rain days
  • Périgueux9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Pérouges6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 9 rain days
  • Perpignan13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 5 rain days
  • Pézenas12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 7 rain days
  • Pleumeleuc9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Pleumeur-Bodou9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Poitiers7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 9 rain days
  • Pomerols12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Pontivy9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Pornic9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 13 rain days
  • Porquerolles13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 7 rain days
  • Porto-Vecchio13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 8 rain days
  • Praz de Lys-Sommand2 °C (36 °F) / -6 °C (21 °F), 12 rain days
  • Propriano13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 9 rain days
  • Provins6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 8 rain days
  • Puy-l'Évêque9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Puycelsi9 °C (48 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 7 rain days
  • Puyloubier11 °C (52 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 6 rain days
  • Quiberon9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Quimper10 °C (50 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 12 rain days
  • Rambouillet7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Reims6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 11 rain days
  • Remoulins12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Rennes-le-Château12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 7 rain days
  • Rennes9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 13 rain days
  • Rians11 °C (52 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 6 rain days
  • Ribeauvillé5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 9 rain days
  • Ribérac9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Riquewihr5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 12 rain days
  • Risoul3 °C (37 °F) / -4 °C (25 °F), 8 rain days
  • Roanne5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 12 rain days
  • Rocamadour9 °C (48 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 11 rain days
  • Rodez7 °C (45 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 8 rain days
  • Roissy-en-France6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 12 rain days
  • Roquebrune-sur-Argens13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Roquesérière10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 9 rain days
  • Roscoff10 °C (50 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 16 rain days
  • Rouen7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Royan8.5 °C (47 °F) / 3.4 °C (38 °F), 12 rain days
  • Rueil-Malmaison7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val12 °C (54 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 6 rain days
  • Saint-Benoît-du-Sault7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 11 rain days
  • Saint-Brieuc9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 14 rain days
  • Saint-Claude5 °C (41 °F) / -2 °C (28 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saint-Cloud7 °C (45 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Saint-Denis, Île-de-France7 °C (45 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 5 rain days
  • Saint-Dié-des-Vosges5 °C (41 °F) / -2 °C (28 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saint-Émilion10 °C (50 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorry8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saint-Étienne6 °C (43 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 9 rain days
  • Saint-Florent12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 8 rain days
  • Saint-Germain-en-Laye6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 8 rain days
  • Saint-Gervais-les-Bains4 °C (39 °F) / -4 °C (25 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saint-Gonlay9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 6 rain days
  • Saint-Jean-de-Côle9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saint-Jean-de-Luz12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 8 rain days
  • Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 14 rain days
  • Saint-Lary-Soulan7 °C (45 °F) / -2 °C (28 °F), 8 rain days
  • Saint-Lô8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saint-Louis5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saint-Malo9 °C (48 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 13 rain days
  • Saint Martin de Belleville2 °C (36 °F) / -7 °C (19 °F), 10 rain days
  • Saint-Martin-de-Crau12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume11 °C (52 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 6 rain days
  • Saint-Mont10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Saint-Nazaire9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saint-Paul de Vence13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Saint-Paul-lès-Dax12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saint-Pons-de-Thomières9 °C (48 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 9 rain days
  • Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Saint-Raphaël13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 7 rain days
  • Saint-Rémy-de-Provence12 °C (54 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 7 rain days
  • Saint-Sever12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saint‑Sulpice10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 6 rain days
  • Saint-Tropez13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 6 rain days
  • Sainte-Engrâce9 °C (48 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise2 °C (36 °F) / -7 °C (19 °F), 10 rain days
  • Sainte-Marie-aux-Mines4 °C (39 °F) / -2 °C (28 °F), 10 rain days
  • Saintes Maries de la Mer12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 5 rain days
  • Saintes9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 11 rain days
  • Sallenelles8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Salon-de-Provence12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Salvagnac12 °C (54 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 7 rain days
  • Samoëns4 °C (39 °F) / -3 °C (27 °F), 10 rain days
  • Sanary-sur-Mer12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 7 rain days
  • Sant'Antonino13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 8 rain days
  • Sare12 °C (54 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F), 12 rain days
  • Sarlat-la-Canéda7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 12 rain days
  • Sartène12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 7 rain days
  • Saulieu6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 12 rain days
  • Saumur6 °C (43 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 7 rain days
  • Sceaux7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 10 rain days
  • Sedan5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 12 rain days
  • Seillans12 °C (54 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 6 rain days
  • Sélestat6 °C (43 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 9 rain days
  • Semur-en-Auxois5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 8 rain days
  • Sens7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 11 rain days
  • Serre-Chevalier4 °C (39 °F) / -4 °C (25 °F), 8 rain days
  • Sète12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 8 rain days
  • Sisteron10 °C (50 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 6 rain days
  • Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval2 °C (36 °F) / -6 °C (21 °F), 10 rain days
  • Sospel13 °C (55 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Soulac-sur-Mer12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 8 rain days
  • Strasbourg4 °C (39 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 9 rain days
  • Talairan12 °C (54 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 7 rain days
  • Talensac9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Tarascon12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 6 rain days
  • Tarbes9 °C (48 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 9 rain days
  • Thouars8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Thuir12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 5 rain days
  • Tignes-2 °C (28 °F) / -8 °C (18 °F), 5 rain days
  • Toulon12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 6 rain days
  • Toulouse10 °C (50 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 10 rain days
  • Tourrettes-sur-Loup12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 7 rain days
  • Tours7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Trouville-sur-Mer8 °C (46 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Troyes5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 8 rain days
  • Tuchan12 °C (54 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 7 rain days
  • Turckheim5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 8 rain days
  • Vaison-la-Romaine10 °C (50 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 6 rain days
  • Val-d'Isère2 °C (36 °F) / -5 °C (23 °F), 8 rain days
  • Val Thorens2 °C (36 °F) / -8 °C (18 °F), 10 rain days
  • Valbonne and Biot12 °C (54 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 7 rain days
  • Valfréjus2 °C (36 °F) / -7 °C (19 °F), 10 rain days
  • Vallon-Pont-d'Arc9 °C (48 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 7 rain days
  • Vannes9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 13 rain days
  • Vaour9 °C (48 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 7 rain days
  • Vence12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 6 rain days
  • Verdun5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 11 rain days
  • Vernet-les-Bains12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (39 °F), 7 rain days
  • Versailles7 °C (45 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 11 rain days
  • Vesoul5 °C (41 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 12 rain days
  • Veynes5 °C (41 °F) / -2 °C (28 °F), 8 rain days
  • Vézelay6 °C (43 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 11 rain days
  • Vichy8 °C (46 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 10 rain days
  • Vienne7 °C (45 °F) / 0 °C (32 °F), 8 rain days
  • Villefranche-sur-Mer13 °C (55 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F), 6 rain days
  • Villefranche-sur-Saône7 °C (45 °F) / 1 °C (34 °F), 10 rain days
  • Vire8 °C (46 °F) / 2 °C (36 °F), 12 rain days
  • Vitré9 °C (48 °F) / 3 °C (37 °F), 12 rain days
  • Vittel6 °C (43 °F) / -1 °C (30 °F), 8 rain days
  • Voiron5 °C (41 °F) / -2 °C (28 °F), 9 rain days

Festivals and holidays

Dates as our data lists them. Moving holidays (lunar and Islamic calendars, Easter) shift every year: check the date for your year before you build a trip on it.

  • New Year's Day

    1 Jan

    Quiet day; many restaurants closed.

  • Winter sales (soldes) check

    Mid-January to mid-February (set by law) · Paris

    Crowds and discounts on clothes.

  • Christmas and New Year

    Late Dec–early Jan · Paris

    Lights and markets; closures on 25 December and 1 January.

Crowds and prices

Crowds · France
Low
Prices · France
Low

Compare two months

Weather, crowds and prices for any two months in France, side by side.

  • Verdict

    Jan: Mixed

    May: Great (better)

  • Crowds

    Jan: Low

    May: Medium

  • Prices

    Jan: Low

    May: Medium

  • Festivals listed

    Jan: 3

    May: 2

January: Cold and grey north of Lyon; the winter sales (soldes) start in January; ski resorts busy at weekends.

May: Long weekends (1 May, 8 May, Ascension) fill trains; otherwise mild and green. Cannes festival lifts Riviera prices mid-month.

France: figures are long-term averages from this guide, not a forecast.

What to pack

  • Layers: a fleece or light jacket
  • A rain jacket or umbrella and shoes that dry fast

Build the full packing list for your trip →

Where to go in January

Rated best or good this month

  • Alpe d'Huez

    Best months: Dec–Mar for snow; Jun–Aug for cycling and hiking

  • Arette

    Best months: Dec–Mar for ski, Jun–Sep for hiking

  • Bagnères-de-Bigorre

    Best months: Jun–Sep, Dec–Feb (ski season and warm spa weather)

  • Bourg-Saint-Maurice

    Best months: Dec–Mar (ski), Jun–Sep (hiking)

  • Boutx

    Best months: Dec–Mar for ski, May–Sep for hiking

  • Bozel

    Best months: Jul–Aug for walking and the lake; late Dec–mid Apr for skiing

  • Briançon

    Best months: Dec–Apr for skiing; Jun–Sep for hiking

  • Brides les Bains

    Best months: Dec–Apr (ski season), Jun–Sep (hiking, spa)

  • Chamonix

    Best months: Jun–Sep for hiking and lifts; Dec–Mar for skiing

  • Courchevel

    Best months: Dec–Mar (peak ski season)

  • Die

    Best months: May–Sep (warm, festivals), Dec–Mar (ski season – check)

  • Disneyland Paris

    Best months: Jan–Mar and Sep–Nov (low crowds, shorter hours)