No matter where you find yourself in France this month, there’s a host of events and fun outdoor activities to experience, especially now that the weather is often great. Hike and bike rugged mountain terrain of Mont Ventoux, kayak down the Verdon River in the south of France, and sip full-bodied wines of the Rhône Valley. Read this monthly guide to learn more._x000D_
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May in France: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
France in May is a truly enchanting time to visit, offering a delightful blend of pleasant weather, fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months, and a vibrant atmosphere filled with cultural events and natural beauty. It’s a shoulder season sweet spot, where you can enjoy popular attractions without the overwhelming throngs of tourists, and potentially snag better deals on accommodation and flights. However, it’s essential to be prepared for some spring showers and cooler evenings, ensuring you pack accordingly for a comfortable and enjoyable trip.
Weather
The weather in France during May is generally agreeable, characterized by relatively mild temperatures, though unpredictable spring showers are a possibility, as are evenings that can feel rather brisk. However, as the month progresses toward its end, there’s a good chance the sea will have warmed enough to tempt the more intrepid swimmers amongst you, with temperatures potentially reaching 64°F (18°C). If you’re planning to arrive in Paris in May, you can expect average temperatures around 57°F (14°C). However, on particularly sunny days, highs can climb into the mid-70s (mid-20s Celsius), offering a taste of summer warmth. When considering regional averages throughout the month, temperatures tend to range between 46-57°F (8-22°C) in the northeast of France, offering a slightly cooler climate. Along the Atlantic coast, you can anticipate averages between 50-66°F (10-19°C), providing a more temperate maritime climate. In South France, the temperatures are generally warmer, ranging from 55-68°F (13-20°C), promising a more Mediterranean experience.
Paris tends to experience the highest amount of rainfall during May, so it’s advisable to be prepared for potential showers. Conversely, the southern coast, particularly in cities like Nice, typically receives the least amount of rainfall. To ensure you’re well-equipped for the varying weather conditions, it’s recommended to pack a versatile mix of clothing. This should include t-shirts for warmer days, along with warmer layers such as sweaters or light jackets for cooler evenings and potential rain. Waterproof gear, such as a raincoat or umbrella, is also essential to stay dry during unexpected showers.
Crowds & Costs
May occupies a unique position as the last month before the influx of tourists begins and prices subsequently rise to reflect the peak season demand. This makes it an optimal time to secure more affordable hotel rates and plane tickets while still benefiting from pleasant weather conducive to outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, the pleasant weather does attract its share of visitors, leading to increased crowds, particularly along the popular southern coast. As a result, you should anticipate sharing popular sites and attractions with fellow travelers.
Furthermore, the presence of Labor Day and Victory Day during the month of May means you can expect nationwide closures and reduced transportation services. It’s wise to be aware of these public holidays and their potential impact on your travel plans, ensuring you make necessary adjustments to your itinerary and transportation arrangements.
Where to Go
May presents a fantastic opportunity to revel in the pleasant weather and enjoy France’s most beloved attractions before the arrival of the summer crowds. Moreover, regardless of where you find yourself during this month, there is a high probability of encountering some sort of food, sporting, or cultural event to enhance your experience. A classic travel itinerary option is to commence your journey in Paris, where you can immerse yourself in the Taste of Paris gastronomic event. This event brings together food vendors in the Grand Palais, along with participating eateries across the city, to create a culinary celebration. For sports enthusiasts, a trip to the Roland Garros stadium for the French Open is a must. However, it is crucial to purchase your tickets well in advance, as this prestigious event tends to sell out rapidly.
If your visit happens to coincide with the Saturday nearest to May 18th, be sure to take advantage of Nuit des Musées (Night of Museums), an event that grants free access to museums throughout the country. Consider visiting renowned institutions like Musée d’Orsay in Paris, Musée Toulouse-Lautrec in Albi, Musée Fabre in Montpellier, Musée Historique Lorrain in Nancy, and Musée de la Tapisserie de Bayeux in Normandy.
For those with a passion for film, the Cannes Film Festival in southeastern France is an unmissable event, offering the chance to spot celebrities attending gala screenings or to enjoy thought-provoking documentaries at the Cinéma de la Plage—an open-air theater situated on the beach. And for a captivating live production, head to the amphitheater in Nîmes to witness the Grands Jeux Romains (Great Roman Games), Europe’s largest historical reenactment. Alternatively, on the opposite side of the country, Brittany and Normandy offer their own distinctive cultural events, namely Fête de la Bretagne and D-Day Festival, respectively. Expect a rich tapestry of parades, concerts, fireworks, special tours, and historical reenactments to immerse yourself in the local culture and history.
What to Do
There are few activities more rewarding than indulging in a wine tour amidst the stunning landscapes of France. Consider engaging with an expert oenologist to uncover the exquisite fruits of Avignon’s rich legacy through a tasting journey of Châteauneuf du Pape’s celebrated red wines, Grenache and Syrah. A classic next stop would be to visit the vineyards of Gigondas in the Rhône Valley for a continued tour, the perfect setting for pretty views of the Dentelles de Montmirail mountain range. And the truly fit might want to make their way to Mont Ventoux to hike or bike the steep terrain, particularly popular with cyclists (and often featured in the annual Tour de France).
Before the summer crowds overwhelm France’s southern coast and islands and the sun reaches its peak intensity, consider a trip to Corsica to hike its wild mountains and walk its rugged coastline. There are a variety of routes to choose between ranging from long-distance walking paths, like the tough GR 20 that traverses the island diagonally (112 miles or 180 km) to shorter walks and day hikes, like a route to explore the mountain villages around Bastia.
For those with a preference for water-based activities, booking a tour of the Gorges du Verdon in southeastern France’s Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department is highly recommended. The largest canyon in Europe provides ample opportunities for active nature lovers, with spring being one of the best times to experience white water rafting or kayaking down the Verdon River between Castellane and the lake of Sainte Croix. It’s also possible to swim and canoe the river as well as hike, rock climb, and go canyoning.
Events in May
Fête du Travail/Fête du Premier Mai (Labor Day/May Day). Celebrated on the 1st of May, this national holiday results in the closure of many businesses. Most attractions also close their doors, as the French typically choose to spend this day off relaxing with their families and friends. And as it is also May Day, many individuals present lilies of the valley to their loved ones as tokens of happiness and good luck.
Les Grands Jeux Romains (The Great Roman Games). For a period of three days in early May, a remarkable 500 authentically dressed reenactors participate in a large-scale reenactment of ludi (public games) within Nîmes’ exceptionally well-preserved amphitheater.
Fête de la Victoire 1945 or Jour de la Liberation (Victory Day). This nationwide event, held on May 8th, commemorates the end of World War II in France and the freedom of its people. Expect closures as well as parades to mark this significant historical occasion.
Cannes Film Festival. This prestigious film festival, held annually in Cannes during mid-May, offers previews of new films spanning all genres, including documentaries, attracting a glamorous crowd of the rich and famous.
Festival Medieval de Sedan. Every year, Sedan proudly hosts a captivating medieval festival within the confines of Europe’s largest medieval castle. Anticipate the presence of participants adorned in historical attire, as well as the castle and its grounds coming alive with archery displays, jousting tournaments, and grand banquets.
Monaco Grand Prix. The renowned Formula One motor race takes place each year during the last weekend of May on the challenging Circuit de Monaco.
Festival des Jardins (International Garden Festival). From April to October, the gardens of Château Chaumont-sur-Loire host this annual festival, showcasing up to 30 themed gardens meticulously crafted by landscape architects, designers, and artists.
Traveling to France in May? Check out these great itineraries.
Paris & Provence Road Trip – 9 Days. This scenic itinerary begins with a self-guided road trip that takes you through the exceptional villages, cities, and wine regions nestled in the heart of Provence. Over the course of nine days, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Aix-en-Provence, Arles, Avignon, and the Rhone Valley, along with visits to a number of UNESCO World Heritage sites and hidden gems. The adventure culminates in Paris, where you’ll enjoy a mix of private tours and free time to explore at your own pace.
Vineyard Hopping in Corsica – 7 Days. This 7-day Corsican vineyard hop itinerary is designed for wine-loving travelers. Bounce between some of the oldest vineyards in Europe (with stops at stunning beaches and charming towns in between) to experience the history, variety, and especially the flavors of Corsica’s wine culture.
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