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Best time to visit

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You can find something unique in France at any time of year. However, the warmer period provides the best opportunities to explore its stunning natural and historical sites. Therefore, the best time to visit France is from May to October. In summer, you can witness the majestic lavender bloom in Provence, go hiking in the Alps, explore scenic Normandie, and find secret beaches on France's Mediterranean coast. In July, celebrate Bastille Day or La Fête Nationale in Paris and go on a picnic with the view of the Seine River and historical monuments. In September, visit saffron farms and marvel at autumn foliage.

125 things to do in France

Hellfest Open Air Festival

June 19-22, 2025 Event

Join fans of Sepultura, Iron Maiden or Cannibal Corpse during one of the biggest heavy metal music festivals in Europe

Sun and Fun: Beach Season

July–August Activity

Prepare for lively and energetic beach holidays in Corsica

Olive Picking

November–December Food

In Provence you can still experience traditional farming and take part in olive harvesting

Aïoli

June–September | Christmas | Ash Wednesday Food

You might think it's only mayonnaise but you'll discover that it's the centre piece of delicious provençal cuisine

Lavender Fields in Bloom

June–August Nature

One of the first things that come to mind when you think of Provence is a magnificent lavender field

Brocciu

October–May Food

An exquisite Corsican sheep cheese

Ratatouille

June–September Food

Not the Disney movie, but the mouthwatering stewed vegetable dish from Nice

Black Truffle

mid-November–mid-March Food

You'll be able to not just taste some black tr​uffles, but also hunt them, visit the truffle fair, or try out other interesting activities offered by local farmers

Picnics

May–September Activity

Icons of Paris provide some of the world's most romantic settings for a picnic

Louvre with Shorter Queues

September–May Activity

Whether you are a keen museum goer or not, the world's finest art is worth exploring!

Ironman 70.3

May 19, 2024 Event

The home of a famous triathlon, Aix-en-Provence, annualy gathers triathletes from all over the world for a big race

Festival De Cannes

May 14–25, 2024 Event

One of the world's biggest and most important events, the Cannes Film Festival in the French Riviera, speaks for itself

Secret Hideaways

April–September Activity

Ever dreamed of escaping to a hideaway resort?

Saffron Farms

September–October Activity

A precious spice is made out of the beautiful and tender flowers of saffron in Provence

Sardines

September–February Food

Try a delicious Corsican specialty—sardines with brocciu and wild herbs

Fromage de Chèvre or Goat Cheese

April–October Food

Wine and cheese are a classic, but in Provence, ​these words have a whole new meaning

Pétanque World Championship (Mondial La Marseillaise à Pétanque)

June 30-July 3, 2024 Event

A sport in which the French are the ultimate champions

Boat Trips Around Corsica

May–October Activity

Discover Corsica's beautiful seaside and mountain landscape on a remarkable boat ride

Mont Saint Michel Tide

all year round on selected dates Nature

At one moment it's coastal, at another—an island in the open sea, cut off from the land with 15-meter high tide

Bastille Day or La Fête Nationale

July 14 Event

The military parade held in Paris's main avenue proves to be the largest one in Europe

Paris Fashion Week

June 18–23, 2024 | September 23–October 1, 2024 Event

One of the world's coolest fashion parties!

Exploring the Calanques

October–May Nature

This natural treasure of Provence and cousin to the Scandinavian fjords is an essential highlight of any trip to the region

Parks and Gardens in Autumn Foliage

late September–November Activity

Parisian parks and gardens are beautiful at any time of the year but in autumn they become especially charming and poetic

Bouillabaisse

May–September Food

Not only the flavour of this fish soup is special, but the method of serving it as well

Sunset in the Arc de Triomphe

mid-May | early August Nature

A biannual natural phenomenon that was not planned by the architect of the monument

Oyster Season

September–April Food

Even if you don't like oysters, you'll love them in France!

The Gitan Pilgrimage

May 24–May 25 Event

Watch a small sleepy seaside town of Saintes Maries de la Mer turns into a noisy and wild carnival with Gypsy dancing and music

The Thirteen Christmas Desserts

December 24–December 25 Food

The sweetest Provençal tradition—lei tretze dessèrts

Carnaval de Paris & Carnaval des Femmes

February 11, 2024 (Carnaval de Paris) | March 3, 2024 (Carnaval des Femmes) Event

The graceful moves of the colorful processions drive away winter and bring spring

Kite and Windsurfing

April–October Activity

Corsica is a great place to learn kite and wind surfing

Carnaval de Nice

February 17-March 3, 2024 Event

The most important winter event in the French Riviera and one of the largest Carnivals in the world​​

Surfing

November–March Activity

Good waves arrive to Corsica with the cold

Monaco Grand Prix

May 25, 2025 Event

Formula One race time is nothing but speed, glamour, passion, noise, and a hint of danger because the cars are never too far away from the barriers

Snorkelling and Diving

March–April Activity

Corsican marine life is rich and diverse attracting both professional and amateur divers

Chestnut Season and Fête de la Châtaigne

October Food

A little province in the South of France is the chestnut capital of the world

Marathon de Paris

April 13, 2025 Event

It's not just about running beside world-famous monuments—music, cheese, and wine tasting wait en route too

Fiesta des Suds

October 10–13, 2024 Event

This international music festival is an essential part of Marseille's cultural identity

Corsican Chestnut Beer

May–September Food

A native beer flavour invented on Corsica

Tour de France

June 29-July 21, 2024 Event

The world's biggest, most challenging, and beautiful cycling event

Hiking the GR20 or Grande Radonnee 20

late June–September Activity

The most challenging and beautiful hiking trail in Europe

Jazz à Vienne

June 27-July 16, 2024 Event

Two weeks of jazz in an amazing outdoor setting

Tour du Mont Blanc

mid-June–mid-September Activity

Conquer Europe's highest mountain and test your endurance

Chorégies d'Orange

June 14–July 22, 2024 Event

Visit the world's best preserved Roman theater in Orange when it hosts summer opera festival

Fête du Piment d'Espelette, or Chili Pepper Festival

October 26–27, 2024 Event

Visit the town of Espelette and check out the #1 Basque spice called Piment d’Espelette

Hiking in Gorges du Tarn

April–October Activity

Explore a magnificent canyon and search for a medieval castle

French Alps Ski Season

late December–late April Activity

This is one of best skiing destinations in Europe

Christmas Market in Strasbourg

November 27–December 27, 2024 Event

Welcome to Christkindelsmärik—one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets

Claude Monet's House & Gardens in Giverny

late March–November 1 Activity

Observe the famous lily pond in the painting and in reality

Grape Harvest & Festivals

September–mid-November Event

Grape cultivation and wine festivals constitute the tangible part of the French lifestyle. Everyone can join in!

Lyon Festival of Lights (Fête des Lumières)

December 5-8, 2024 Event

Once a year, night time in Lyon reveals the city's special colors

Medieval Festivals

May 11–12, 2024 | May 25–26, 2024 | June 1–2, 2024 Event

In the context of the country's rich history, it's no wonder, Medieval festivals in France are so popular

Frog Legs (Cuisses de Grenouille)

early March–early May Food

To eat or not to eat, that is the question ?

Vichy Spa

all year round Activity

Engage in the recreational activities of the highest society of “la belle époque”

Hiking in Normandy

April–October Activity

If you are looking for some fresh air and beautiful landscapes, Normandy is the place to go

Étretat

April–October Nature

Known for its white cliffs and beaches strewn with rocks, Étretat attracts both tourists and world-famous artists

Cider, Calvados, and Pommeau

September–November Food

Normandy is known for its apples and the best drinks are made from them

Guédelon Castle

April 1–November 5, 2023 Activity

Watch the team of volunteers that aim to build their own medieval castle, using traditional techniques and eco-friendly materials

Herri Urrats Festival

May 11, 2025 Event

Every year, Basque people celebrate their language and culture

Musée d'Orsay

November–March (all year round) Activity

Some of the best of French Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art is collected at one neat place on Seine's left bank

Palace of Versailles

all year round Activity

Get a sense of royal lifestyle in the residence of the Kings of French Monarchy

Passage du Gois

all year round Activity

Do you dare to meet the hour of driving on one of the world's most dangerous roads?

Fort Boyard

May-October (year round) Activity

The famous French fort built by Napoleon is now used for filming shows

Christmas Markets (Marchés de Noël)

mid-November–early January Event

Alsace, Aquitaine and the French Riviera have their beautiful Christmas traditions

Mardi Gras (Carnaval)

mid-January–early March 2024 Event

Amazing floats, masquerades, and delicious food make winter festivities season in France unforgettable

Tomorrowland Winter

March 15-22, 2025 Event

The new edition of the world's biggest dance festival in snowy Alps

Rise Festival

December 7-14, 2024 Event

Lots of snow, music and adventures in the famous French ski resort

Marathon du Médoc

September 7, 2024 Event

A fun race combining wine, sports, delecious food and health

Dunkirk Carnival (Carnaval de Dunkerque)

January 6–April 7, 2024 (main events: January 13–February 18, 2024) Event

A unique celebration with a strong fishing theme

Quiksilver Pro France

October 16–24, 2021 Event

An elite surfing competition on the legendary Landes coast

Wheels and Waves in Biarritz

June 12–16, 2024 Event

Moto and surf festival on the France’s southwestern Basque coast

Château Perché Festival

June 27-30, 2024 Event

Techno and deep house in the medieval castle in the heart of France

Snowattack

January 25-February 1, 2025 Event

A week-long snowboarding and music extravaganza

Snowboxx

March 15-22, 2025 Event

A week filled with famous DJs, legendary Après parties, and lots of snow in the French Alps

Musilac

July 10-13, 2024 Event

The festival renowned for its diverse lineups and scenic locations

Col du Lautaret

all year round Activity

The highest year-round pass in France

Puerto de Somport

all year round Activity

A beautiful and exciting ride in the Pyrenees

Mont Ventoux

mid-April–mid-November Activity

Take a scenic drive to the highest mountain of Provence

Col du Tourmalet

late May–October Activity

A legendary road climb, most known as a Tour de France stage finish

Col d'Izoard

mid-June–October Activity

An iconic high mountain pass featured in the iconic Tour de France race

Cherry Blossom

late March–early April Nature

Spring is in the air when thousands of pink buds cover cherry trees

Col de la Bonette

July–October Activity

Ride along one of the highest roads in Europe nestled in the French Alps

Col du Galibier

late May–late October Activity

An iconic climb that inspires cyclists and drivers

Lake Annecy Fireworks (Fête du Lac d'Annecy)

August 2, 2025 Event

Watch the Bay of Albigny hosting one of the most fascinating pyrotechnic shows in Europe

French Open (Roland Garros)

May 25-June 8, 2025 Event

The most prestigious clay court tennis championship of the world

Halloween

early October–early November Event

Check out the city's best amusement parks or take a special cruise on Seine

Journées Européennes du Patrimoine (European Heritage Days)

September 21-22, 2024 Event

Take advantage of the Open Doors Days to visit prominent cultural and historical sites across France

Paris New Year's Eve (La Réveillon de Saint Sylvestre)

December 31 Event

What could be more inspiring than a New Year countdown in Paris?

New Year's Eve in France

December 31 Event

Welcome the new beginning shouting out "Bonne année!" at midnight

Martinique Carnival

March 2-5, 2025 Event

Feel the real tropical vibe at this French carnival, held on a Caribbean island

Easter (Pâques)

March 31, 2024 Event

One of the largest annual holidays for the Catholic Church

Colmar Christmas Markets

November 23–December 29 Event

A holiday showcase of Alsace cuisine, decor, and culture

Lille Christmas Market

November 23-December 30, 2024 Event

This amazing Christmas market in Lille has all the chances to become your go-to place during the winter holidays

Metz Christmas Market

late November–late December 2024 Event

Discover what Christmas Market in Metz has prepared for you

Reims Christmas Market

November 27–December 29, 2024 Event

The country's third largest holiday fair with 140+ beautiful chalets and a perfect setting

Mountain of Hell Race

June 21-23, 2024 Event

How about a bike race on a mountain covered in sheer ice, snow, and rocks?

Fêtes de Bayonne

July 10-14, 2024 Event

The biggest celebration in the South-West of France

Grande Motte Cable Car

all year round (best mid-June–August) Activity

The second-highest cable car in France offers terrace views in the summer

Underwater Wine of Saint-Malo

June Event

A town in Brittany sends its wine to the bottom of the sea

The Cave of Saint-Marcel d’Ardèche

all year round Nature

One of the largest caves in France offers an exceptional show

Grand Est Mondial Air Ballons

July, 2025 Event

One of the largest hot air ballooning festival in Europe

Les Montgolfiades de Rocamadour

September 28–29, 2024 Event

At this spectacular hot-air balloon festival, you'll take the best pictures ever

Les Montgolfiades de Chalon-sur-Saône

June 21–23, 2024 Event

A spectacular ballooning event taking place on Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day in rural Bourgogne

Montgolfiades de Thouars

August 30–September 1, 2024 Event

The annual ballooning event in Thouars is held during the first weekend of fall

AirExpo Air Show

May 11, 2024 Event

If you think air shows are not your thing, save the day for this event and prove yourself wrong!

Fête Aérienne: Le Temps des Hélices

May 18-19, 2025 Event

One of the oldest and most famous air shows in France

France Air Expo

June 6-8, 2024 Event

Learn about the ins and outs of the aero industry at this magnificent event

Paris Air Show-Salon International de l’Aéronautique et de l'Espace

June 16-22, 2025 Event

Attend the Paris Air Show to see latest aerospace innovations and network with the industry's top personas

Le Touquet Paris-Plage International Airshow

July 1–2, 2023 Event

Discover the best of French airmen and aircraft!

Meeting Aérien International de la Somme-Hauts de France

August 24, 2024 Event

You've never seen such dexterity and skilfulness as there is at this aviation show!

Paris Villaroche Air Legend

September 14-15, 2024 Event

Admire war aircraft and take in the 1940s ambiance

Meeting Aérien de Roanne

September, 2025 Event

About 60 airplanes, exhibitions, and other exciting events on the ground

Jazz in Marciac

July 18-August 4, 2024 Event

Book your tickets to the famous international jazz festival in southwest France

Jazz sous les pommiers

May 4-11, 2024 Event

8 days of world music in the heart of Normandie

La Magnifique Society Festival

June 23–25, 2023 Event

One of the best jazz fests in France welcomes you!

Festival Django Reinhardt

June 27-30, 2024 Event

The annual mecca for the fans of jazz, guitars, and Romanis

Jazz sur son 31

October 9–20, 2024 Event

Two weeks of excellent jazz music in Southwestern France

Paris Jazz Festival

June 30–September 8, 2024 Event

Soothing sounds of jazz in the beautiful green setting

Tourcoing Jazz Festival

October 12–19, 2024 Event

Enjoy eight days of jazzing in the historical city in northern France

Festival Jazz à Juan

July 8–18, 2024 Event

Europe's oldest jazz festival at an iconic Mediterranean seaside location

Nancy Jazz Pulsations

October 5-19, 2024 Event

One of the most recognised jazz event in France

Charlie Jazz Festival

July 5-7, 2024 Event

Save the date for one one-of-a-kind jazz festival with a French charm

Cognac Blues Passions

July 2–6, 2024 Event

A week of excellent rhythm and blues in Cognac

Jazz à la Villette Festival

August 29-September 8, 2024 Event

This festival is proof that jazz is not dead!

Solidays Festival

June 28–30, 2024 Event

Experience the perfect union of vibrant music and social commitment at the heart of France

Touquet Music Beach Festival

August 23–24, 2024 Event

Experience an unforgettable electronic weekend in the heart of Le Touquet

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