March can be the last chance until late fall to visit France on a budget, find hot package deals and avoid tourist swarms. Sure, it can still be a bit cold, but this is also a bargain time to fly to France, with airfare, hotel and package deals galore. The ski season is enjoying its last busy month. The first of the incredible and amazing Easter candy displays begin to appear in candy shops and chocolateries. You could even catch some of the first blooms of the new season, signs that Paris in the Springtime is close at hand.
Weather in March
As the season transitions from winter to spring, almost any weather can be expected (especially if you are moving around the country). Everything from a warm, sunny day to a cold, snowy day could strike. In the north, be prepared for cool to cold weather, and in the south, for mild to cool weather. 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 11 degrees celsius/51 degrees farenheit, and the average low is 3 celcius, 38 farenheit. Average number of days with snow is two in the month, with average days with precipitation of some sort at eighteen.
- Nice: Average high temperature is 12 degrees celsius/54 degrees farenheit, with the average low at 9 degrees celcius/49 degrees farenheit. Average days with precipitation is seven.
- Bordeaux: Average high temperature is 14 degrees celsius, 57 degrees farenheit, and the average low is 4 celcius/40 farenheit. Average days with precipitation is seventeen.
- Strasbourg: Average high temperature is 11 degrees celsius, or 55 degrees farenheit, and the average low is 2 celcius/36 farenheit. There are an average of three days with snowfall, or eighteen with precipitation.
Find out more: Weather in France
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. Also have some spring clothing on hand in case of a warm day. 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
- A versatile wardrobe prepared for both weather extremes
Why to go in March
- Enjoy the quiet and avoid the long lines in the low tourist season, the last chance until late fall
- Indulge in fabulous Easter chocolates and candies
- The last busy month of the skiing season
- Rates are low on lodging and airfare, and just about to spike
Why not to visit France in March
- The weather can be unpredictable
- Some attractions could have restricted hours, or even be closed, especially in smaller villages
- Weather could cause travel delays by air, rail or car
- This is a slow month when it comes to festival and events
Events and festivals
- The last month of the ski season
- Book Fair
in Paris, featuring book signings and exhibits for book enthusiasts. - [Paris Film Festival
Find out more: Top Must-See France Events of 2007