June is a wonderful time to visit France. The tourist season is definitely here, but it hasn't peaked yet. The weather is beautiful. Attractions have long hours, and there are festivals and events aplenty. Of course, the crowds can be annoying.
Weather
The weather is usually quite nice in June, although it can get a bit too extreme and, in Paris, it can even be windy, cold and rainy. There are major variations in climate depending on where you are in France, but here are some major cities:
- Paris: Average temperature is 22 degrees celsius/72 degrees farenheit. Average rainfall is 56 millimeters, or 2.2 inches.
- Nice: Average temperature is 20 degrees celsius/68 degrees farenheit. Average rainfall is 39 millimeters, or 1.5 inches.
- Bordeaux: Average temperature is 18 degrees celsius, 64 degrees farenheit. Average rainfall is 65 millimeters, or 2.6 inches.
- Strasbourg: Average temperature is 17 degrees celsius, or 63 degrees farenheit. Average rainfall is 73 millimeters, or 2.9 inches.
What to pack
It can be challenging to pack for France, particularly if you will visit multiple cities. For the most part, this is a mild time of year. Be prepared for either hot days or cool nights, however. Your packing list should include:
- Sun screen
- A light jacket or sweater
- A sturdy umbrella for windy and rainy days (Buy it now!)
- Good walking shoes or sandals (Buy it now!)
- A bathing suit
Why to go in June
- Flowers are in bloom and France is just plain pretty
- The weather is usually pleasant
- All museums and attractions are open, usually with extended summertime hours
- This is festival season, and there are many events to enjoy
Why not to visit France in June
- The crowds! Although they aren't at their fiercest in June, they are starting to really accumulate
- Airfare and lodging is expensive
- There can be some really hot days
Events and festivals
- Paris Gay Pride Festival
- Amiens, the Cathedral in Colors, a nighttime light show that projects colors onto the Amiens Cathedral.
- Sculptures in the Sand Festival in Cap d'Agde.
- Festival of Water in Chartres, a free festival featuring lights on the Eure River.
- Joan of Arc Festival in Reims.
- Paris Air Show
- Rio Loco in Toulouse.
- Le Mans 24-Hour Race
- Vinexpo, an international wine and spirits expo in Bordeaux.
- Cycling Festival in Anjou.
- Enghien Jazz Festival in Enghien-les-Bains.