May is one of the most popular times for American tourists to visit France due to the mild and comfortable spring weather, the large number of events, and the relatively small crowds in some of the most popular destinations in the country.
Depending on the city or part of the country you visit on your May vacation in France, you can experience a wide variety of unique cultural events, including the famous Cannes Film Festival that attracts celebrities and commoners from around the world.
Weather
In May, the weather is generally mild, although there can still be spring rains and cold nights in much of France.
Still, depending on where you are in France, there are some variations in climate due to geographic location and typographic features like mountains and valleys. From Paris to Strasbourg, you are sure to discover an excellent adventure no matter where you go in France:
- Paris experiences temperature ranges of 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 Celsius) to 64 degrees Fahrenheit (18 Celsius) and an average of 57.2 degrees Fahrenheit (14 Celsius).
- Strasbourg, in northeastern France, experiences temperatures that range from 46 degrees Fahrenheit (8 degrees Celsius) to 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius) with an average of 57 degrees Fahrenheit (13 degrees Celsius).
- Bordeaux sees temperatures between 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 Celsius) and 66 degrees Fahrenheit (19 Celsius) with an average May temperature of 59 degrees Fahrenheit (15 Celsius).
- Nice experiences a range of 55 degrees Fahrenheit (13 Celsius) to 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 Celsius) with an average May temperature of 63 degrees Fahrenheit (17 Celsius).
- Lyon sees temperatures between 48 degrees Fahrenheit (9 Celsius) and 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 C) with an average temperature of 59 degrees Fahrenheit (15 Celsius).
Also, no matter where you go, you can expect eight to 13 days of rain in the month of May, with Nice receiving the least amount of rain and Paris receiving the most. However, it is important to note that the weather in France is quite volatile at this time of year, so you should always be prepared for any weather conditions.
What to pack
Traveling to different cities can also make it difficult to pack for France, as you will need a variety of spring clothes and layers. The days can be quite warm, the nights can be cold, and you will probably find some rain and wind, especially in Paris. As a result, your packing list should include a warm jacket for nights, sweaters or cardigans, good walking shoes, and a sturdy umbrella that can withstand the wind.
Events
Each year France is host to a variety of cultural events and celebrations, which really start to gather steam as spring heats up during the month of May, making it an excellent month to plan your vacation, especially if you want to beat it. to the summer tourist rush
- Cannes Film Festival: Perhaps the most popular and well-known event that occurs each year is the Cannes Film Festival, which showcases the best of independent cinema from around the world. Although most screenings require industry credentials to access them, the Cinéma de la Plage is an evening screening of out-of-competition films and Cannes classics, which you can experience by visiting the Cannes Tourist Office.
- French Open: Sports enthusiasts can also enjoy the French Open Tennis Championships in Paris, but you should be sure to buy your tickets well in advance if you hope to get a good seat for the tournament as the event tends to sell out quickly. .
- Taste of Paris: This food festival brings together a large number of food vendors at the Grand Palais, but Paris restaurants join in the fun and host special events.
- European Night of Museums: Every May, museums across Europe, including many in France, stay open late with a fun schedule.
- Nuit Sonores: Electronic music reigns supreme at this festival in Lyon.
- D-Day Festival Normandy: Although D-Day is June 6, the festival that celebrates it begins at the end of May throughout Normandy.
- French MotoGP: This motorcycle grand prix takes place in Le Mans, a racing city, every May.
- Jazz à Saint-Germain-des-Prés Festival: jazz lovers descend on the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district of Paris every May to celebrate a popular music festival.
Travel tips
Keep these tips in mind if you plan to travel to France in May.
- You can experience extended hours at tourist attractions as popular destinations prepare for the summer crowds.
- Fares on airfare and accommodation will also start to rise this time of year as shoulder season wears its way into peak season, and lines at France’s most popular attractions will start to lengthen as it progresses. the month.
- Book travel and accommodation well in advance of popular events like the Cannes Film Festival, as flight prices rise and hotels quickly reach capacity.
