France Travel in May

May is a wonderful month to visit France, and along with September, is one of the most popular times. The weather is warm, but still mild and comfortable and the country looks gorgeous. While there are crowds in the more popular resorts, they aren't at their summertime height. There are many events, festivals and activities to keep visitors busy, and inparticular the Cannes Film Festival that attracts celebrities and commoners from around the globe.

Weather

In May the weather is generally mild, though there can still be spring showers and chilly evenings. But you can mainly count on wonderful blue skies, and warm temperatures. According to where you are in France, there are variations in climate, so here are the weather averages for some major cities:

Paris:
Temperature ranges from 10 degrees C (50 degrees F) to 18 degrees C (64 degrees F
Average temperature is 14 degrees C (57.2 degrees F)
Average number of days with some rain is 12

Bordeaux:
Average temperature ranges from 10 degrees C (50 degrees F) to 19 degrees C (66 degrees F)
Average temperatures is 15 degrees C (59 degrees F)
Average number of days with some rain is 13

Lyon:
Temperature ranges from 9 degrees C (48 degrees F) to 20 degrees C (68 degrees F)
Average temperature is 15 degrees C (59 degrees F)
Average number of days with some rain is 13

Nice:
Average temperature ranges from 13 degrees C (55 F) to 20 degrees C (68 degrees F)
Average temperature is 17 degrees C (63 degrees F)
Average number of days with some rain is 8

Strasbourg:
Average temperature ranges from 8 degrees C (46 degrees F) to 20 degrees C (68 degrees F)
Average temperature is 14 degrees C (57 degrees F)
Average number of days with some rain is 13

Find out more: Weather in France

What to pack

It can be challenging to pack for France, particularly if you are travelling around and visiting different cities. You will need a variety of spring clothing and also layers in case the evening weather is cold. Be prepared also for the occasional hot day of walking. You will probably find some rain and wind, especially in Paris. Your packing list should include:

A warm jacket for the evenings

Sweaters or cardigans

Good walking shoes. See the list of Top Travel Walking Shoes for Women or Top Travel Walking Shoes for Men

Sturdy umbrella that can resist the wind. Buy it now.

Find out more on Packing Tips

Why visit France in May

The weather is beautiful and Spring is in full spate

There are festivals and events throughout France as the season gets under way

The countryside look gorgeous

The tourist season is officially starting, with expanded hours at tourist attractions

Why not to visit France in May

Rates are beginning to climb on airfares and accommodation

Crowds are starting to pick up, and lines get longer

Events and Festivals in May

Cannes Film Festival

European Night of Museums

French Open Tennis Championships, Paris

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