May is one of the most popular month to visit France, and for good reason. The weather is warm, but still mild and comfortable. While there are crowds, they aren't at their summertime height. There are many events, festivals and activities to keep visitors busy. One event, the Cannes Film Festival, attracts celebrities and commoners from throughout the globe. The French countryside is simply beautiful. Surprise your mother with great getaway for France's Fete des Meres, or Mother's Day.
Weather
With spring in full force, the weather tends to be mild throughout France. One could encounter spring showers, or even some chilly evenings, but for the most part the weather is inviting. 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 18 degrees celsius/64 degrees farenheit, and the average low is 9 celcius, 49 farenheit. Average number of days with precipitation is sixteen.
- Nice: Average high temperature is 17 degrees celsius/63 degrees farenheit, with the average low at 14 degrees celcius/57 degrees farenheit. Average days with precitation is six.
- Bordeaux: Average high temperature is 19 degrees celsius, 67 degrees farenheit, and the average low is 10 celcius/50 farenheit. Average days with precipitation is eighteen.
- Strasbourg: Average high temperature is 19 degrees celsius, or 66 degrees farenheit, and the average low is 9 celcius/48 farenheit. There is an average of seventeen days with precipitation.
What to pack
It can be challenging to pack for France, particularly if you will visit multiple cities. Have versatile spring clothing on hand, as well as layers to deal with a cold night on the town. Be prepared also for the occasional hot day of walking. You will likely encounter rain and wind, especially in Paris. Your packing list should include:
- A versatile jacket (Buy the women's 3-in-1 jacket or the men's Travelite Microfiber Jacket
- Good walking shoes (see Top Travel Walking Shoes for Women and Top Travel Walking Shoes for Men)
- A sturdy umbrella for windy and rainy days (Buy it now!)
Why to go in May
- Springtime weather and the blooming vitality of spring
- The scenery and landscapes are beautiful
- There are many festivals and activities
- The tourist season is officially beginning, with expanding hours at tourist attractions
Why not to visit France in May
- Rates are beginning to climb on airfare and lodging
- Crowds are starting to pick up, and lines get longer
Events and festivals/What to do in May
- Cannes Film Festival in Cannes
- Mother's Day, or Fetes des Meres
- Sea Festival in Mimizan
- Pentecost Ferias, or Bullfights in Nimes
- International Band Festival, featuring 48 hours of music, in Condom
- International Jazz-sur-Vie Festival in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie
- Medieval Festival in Sedan at Europe's largest castle
- Chocolate Days, held where France's chocolate industry was born when Jews fled to this city of Bayonne