Weather in France in July

Is July a good time to go to France?

July is the best time to go to France because of the grand weather, numerous festivals and extended operating hours of many museums, galleries and attractions. The weather is warm and the country is in full holiday mode. Some of the best cultural, music and sporting events will take place in July and the coasts are packed with tourists stretching out on the beach in the summer sun. Accommodation and airfare prices are at their peak, and popular locations will be full, but it is also the perfect opportunity to seek out small towns and secluded areas in France.
 

Climate in France in July

This is the hottest time of the year. Temperatures in the South of France range from 19°C to 29°C (48°F to 66°F), and the rest of the country from 14°C to 25°C (57°F to 77°F), with alpine and northern regions being slightly cooler.

The South of France is typically dry during July, and most of the country is a little wet and humid at times, but don’t expect the rain to last very long. In the south rainfall can be as little as under 20mm (0.8in), with significantly more in south western France, around 50mm to 60mm (2in to 2.4in). Rainfall in central, western and eastern regions range from 50mm to 60mm (2in to 2.4in) and some northern towns average over 60mm (2.4in).
 

What’s on in France in July

July is peak-summer season, the beaches are packed and there are many summer festivals to celebrate the holidays. Bastille Day is the French equivalent of Independence Day in America and there will be massive fireworks displays and parades, throughout the country, to celebrate the beginning of the French Revolution. International teams of cyclists will race around the country during The Tour de France and it is important to note where they are at each leg of the race, in order to avoid any inconveniences.

Paris Plages transforms the banks of the Seine into a beach boardwalk, complete with sand, open-air bars, cafés and live concerts during the summer. Some of the world’s biggest and greatest Jazz festivals take place in Juan-les-Pins, Nice, Lyon and Vannes, where famous jazz musicians will be entertaining the summer crowds with excellent performances. Finally, The Avignon Festival is an extravaganza of art, theatre and performance and has long been one of the most famous summer festivals in France.
 

What to pack for a holiday in France in July

The July heat is ideal for shorts and T-shirts, summer dresses and skirts and light pullovers or jerseys for the evenings. Pack sunglasses, hats and sunscreen because the sun will be hot in July, and don’t forget swimwear for the beach.

Pack open and closed toe shoes, including sandals, as it will be hot during this month. Hikers should pack good walking shoes for a summer trek and people travelling to alpine areas should pack a warm coat, gloves and hats because it is still cold in elevated areas. Raincoats and umbrellas are advisable extras because it is bound to rain sometime in July. Pack something smart because some restaurants and events will require formal attire.