July is a popular vacation month in France. Beach destinations are bustling, and outdoor markets are bursting with activity and produce. There are almost endless events and festivals. The Tour de France storms through the country. Bastille Day revelry is everywhere. Depending on your destination, the weather can be a bit too balmy. Combine that with the crowds, and it can feel stifling. Either way, you'll find plenty to do during July in France.
Weather
The weather is usually quite nice in June, although it can get a bit too extreme and, in Paris, it can even be windy, cold and rainy. There are major variations in climate depending on where you are in France, but here are some major cities:
- Paris: Average temperature is 24 degrees celsius/75 degrees farenheit. Average rainfall is 57 millimeters, or 2.2 inches.
- Nice: Average temperature is 23 degrees celsius/73 degrees farenheit. Average rainfall is 16 millimeters, or 0.6 inches.
- Bordeaux: Average temperature is 20 degrees celsius, 68 degrees farenheit. Average rainfall is 52 millimeters, or 2 inches.
- Strasbourg: Average temperature is 19 degrees celsius, or 66 degrees farenheit. Average rainfall is 75 millimeters, or 3 inches.
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 mild time of year. Be prepared for either hot days or cool nights, however. Your packing list should include:
- Sun screen
- Light clothes
- Flip flops
- Good walking shoes or sandals (Buy it now!)
- A bathing suit
Why to go in July
- Tour de France and Bastille Day. Enough said!
- The weather is warm
- All museums and attractions are open, usually with extended summertime hours
- France is vibrant and lively
Why not to visit France in July
- The crowds! This is one of France's peak tourist months
- Airfare and lodging is expensive
- There can be some really hot days
Events and festivals
- Tour de France
- Bastille Day
- Bar-le-Duc Renaissance Festival
- Bagpipes of Europe Festival in Autun
- International Festival of Baroque Music in Beaune
- Estivales, Perpignan's Summer Festival
- Avignon Festival (find out more about Avignon)
- Cannes International Golf Festival (find out more about Cannes)
- Carcassonne Festival (find out more about Carcassonne)
- Children's International Folk Festival in Saint-Maixent l´Ecole
- Francofolies in La Rochelle
