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Crystal-clear skies, warm seas, and events taking place nationwide – it is no wonder travelers absolutely love a France tour in July. Welcome to the country’s warmest (and busiest) month, where beaches attract holidaymakers like moths to a flame and the country’s most popular attractions are jam-packed. France’s high season can be chaotic, so plan well in advance. Celebrate Bastille Day in Paris, explore Provence’s vineyards, go beaching at the French Riviera, or cheer on Tour de France competitors at Brittany.

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France Weather in July

Flying colorful hot air balloons over the purple fragrant lavender fields
Bask in the ambience of the colorful lavender fields in Valensole, France

The weather in France in July is warm and toasty – as is expected at the height of summer. Paris, where average temperatures range from 161˚C to 77˚C, sees occasional thunderstorms, so consider lugging around an umbrella.

Temperatures in France’s northeast in July hover between 12 to 27˚C. Along the Atlantic coast, on the other hand, the mercury can shoot as high as 24˚C, while the country’s Mediterranean region sees temperatures between 20 and 27˚C.

For a seasonal overview, read our travel article on the best time to visit France.

Weather in France in July - Rainfall and Temperatures

JunJulAug
Avg Daily (°C)232525
Avg Nightly (°C)141616
Avg Daily (°F)747777
Avg Nightly (°F)586161
Avg Rainfall (mm)242221

Why Visit France in July

People walk on Rue Sainte Catherine in center of Bordeaux city.
Rue Sainte-Catherine in Bordeaux is known as the longest shopping street in Europe
Hiking boots of a hiker resting on the grass in July in Provence, France
Relax after an adventurous hike in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, France

July in France sees throngs of summer crowds, and travelers who visit regardless of the month's inconveniences are treated to a spectacular weather, bevy of festivals, and attractions made more vibrant by the summer sun.

Two of the country's most popular events, Bastille Day and Tour de France, beckon revelers from all over the world, and prices surge to keep up with the demand. It is best to book your flights and accommodations early when traveling during this period. Below are some of the reasons to visit France in July.

  • Beach tour season: The rising mercury creates the perfect setting for beaches to shine. France in July sees travelers flocking in droves to seaside attractions like Corsica and the French Riviera. Join in the beach fever if you can contend with crowds!
  • An array of festivals: Looking for something to celebrate? July will not disappoint. Be part of Tour de France, the world’s most popular cycling competition, gawk over spectacular firework displays during Paris’ Bastille Day or watch a musical in Festival d’Avignon.
  • Extended hours: The influx of tourists in July prompts establishments and attractions to remain open and extend their hours of operation. Now is a great time to visit attractions like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and the Palace of Versailles.
  • Shopping haven: July is a great time for some retail therapy! France’s state-mandated sale period, les soldes, is held during this month. Enjoy massive discounts on prominent brands at shops and boutiques.

Where to go and what to do

errace of a restaurant near the jetty and beach of the Moulleau in Arcachon
Enjoy a delicious meal a top a restaurant in the beach of the Moulleau in Arcachon, France

You will not run out of things to do in France during the summer. If the deluge of holidaymakers does not bother you, now is a great time to head to the beach. Cote d'Azur's stunning beaches and offshore islands get most of the attention, but Corsica's glittering bays and breathtaking beaches hold their own, especially for outdoorsy travelers looking to go canyoning, hiking, and snorkeling.

Alternatively, base yourself in Paris for Paris-Plages, an annual summer event where the city’s riverbanks are turned into artificial beaches decked with parasols and deckchairs.

Take advantage of the warm weather and engage in a host of outdoorsy activities. Hike the Les Calanques, explore historical sites in Bordeaux, brave the crowds and go beaching at the French Riviera, or book a relaxing stay at a chateau in the charming Midi-Pyrenees. You may want to read up on the best chateaux to stay in France.

Check out the best places to visit in France while the weather is great! Head to Burgundy and go on a wine-tasting tour, and then explore its charming old cities and natural parks. For nature, go hiking in Les Calanques and explore its scenic fjords on foot! Discover how many days to spend in France to plan your perfect itinerary.

What to bring

Aerial view of the city of Espalion in France
Spend an afternoon taking a scenic flight over the city of Espalion in France
Scenic view of Bordeaux in France
Take scroll through the beautiful city of Bordeaux in France

France in July is hot and balmy, so dress in light and breathable clothes as much as possible. Bear in mind that during recent years, heatwaves have been recorded in France during late July.

Protect yourself from the oppressive heat by lugging around an umbrella (which will also come in handy under Paris’ occasional thunderstorms), slathering some sunblock on your skin, and bringing a bottle of water, especially when touring around cities.

France in July offers fantastic weather along with a bevy of festivals and great discounts. However, this comes at the cost of thick crowds and skyrocketing hotel prices and airfare. Book your flights and accommodations early to circumvent rising costs and crowds. All of these experiences can be built into a customized trip to France. Speak to our local travel experts to plan a trip.

You can also browse through our list of available France tours in July.

Other Related Articles: 
France in June
France in August

Published by David Lee, updated on August 5, 2022

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