January is a unique time to visit France. The Christmas shopping season is over, but the country's semi-annual goverment-regulated sales begin. In the Pyrenees and Alps, the ski seasons are beginning to gain steam as snowfall increases. Yes, it's cold, but this is also a bargain time to fly to France, with airfare, hotel and package deals galore.
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/44 degrees farenheit, and the average low is 2 celcius, 36 farenheit. Average number of days with snow is four in the month.
- Nice: Average high temperature is 11 degrees celsius/55 degrees farenheit, with the average low at 8 degrees celcius/46 degrees farenheit. Average days with snowfall is zero.
- Bordeaux: Average high temperature is 9 degrees celsius, 49 degrees farenheit, and the average low is 2 celcius/36 farenheit. Average days with snowfall is one.
- Strasbourg: Average high temperature is 4 degrees celsius, or 39 degrees farenheit, and the average low is -1 celcius/30 farenheit. There are an average of seven 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 (Buy it now!)
- 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 January
- Enjoy the quiet and avoid the long lines in the low tourist season
- There is wonderful shopping with some hot bargains starting about mid-month with the national sales, or Les Soldes
- This is the real start of the skiing season
- Rates are low on lodging and airfare
Why not to visit France in January
- 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 festivals
- New Year's Eve in Paris and throughout France
- The ski season begins in earnest
- The winter sales begin
- The Shopping Festival in Cannes
- France Snowboard Cup in Puy Saint-Vincent
- Internation Cross-Country Ski Marathon in Bessans Val d´Arc
- Ice Sculpture Competition in Valloire
- International Snow Polo Event in Megeve
- Truffle Day in Uzes
- International Comic Strip Festival in Angouleme