February is an ideal time to visit France if you are a snow sports enthusiast. In the Pyrenees and Alps, this is the peak of the ski season. Yes, it's cold, but this is also a bargain time to fly to France, with airfare, hotel and package deals galore. The country's semi-annual goverment-regulated sales are under way. The annual Carnaval, or Mardi Gras, celebrations begin. Besides, what could be more romantic than spending Valentine's Day in Paris? Perhaps you could even propose marriage!
Weather
The weather can range from crisp but comfortable days to downright chilly nights. There are major variations in climate depending on where you are in France, but here are weather averages for some major cities:
- Paris: Average high temperature is 7 degrees celsius/45 degrees farenheit, and the average low is 1 celcius, 34 farenheit. Average number of days with snow is four in the month.
- Nice: Average high temperature is 11 degrees celsius/51 degrees farenheit, with the average low at 8 degrees celcius/47 degrees farenheit. Average days with snowfall is zero.
- Bordeaux: Average high temperature is 11 degrees celsius, 52 degrees farenheit, and the average low is 3 celcius/38 farenheit. Average days with snowfall is one.
- Strasbourg: Average high temperature is 6 degrees celsius, or 42 degrees farenheit, and the average low is -1 celcius/30 farenheit. There are an average of six days with snowfall.
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 cool or cold time of year. Be prepared for blustery weather and, possibly, snow. Your packing list should include:
- A winter coat
- A light jacket or layers for daytime
- Good walking shoes with nice tread. See the list of Top Travel Walking Shoes for Women or Top Travel Walking Shoes for Men
- A scarf, hat and gloves
- A sturdy umbrella for windy and rainy days (Buy it now!)
- Tire chains if you will rent a car in mountainous areas
Why to go in February
- Enjoy the quiet and avoid the long lines in the low tourist season
- There is wonderful shopping with some hot bargains with the national sales, or Les Soldes, which end mid-month
- This is the peak of the skiing season
- Rates are low on lodging and airfare
- France's centuries old Carnaval, which predates New Orleans' Mardi Gras
Why not to visit France in February
- The weather can be uncomfortably cold
- Some attractions could have restricted hours, or even be closed, especially in smaller villages
- Weather could cause travel delays by air, rail or car
Events and Things to Do in February
- The ski season
- The winter sales
- Carnaval in Nice
- Carnaval in Limoux
- Romantic Things to Do in Paris