July in France is festival time. The outdoor activity in restaurants and streets is bustling. The parks and gardens are glorious with beautiful colors and scents. Depending on where you are in France, your climate in major cities can fluctuate wildly from area to area.
Weather
The weather in France is usually pleasant in July, although it can be very hot, rise to 90 ° F, and heat waves can occur. So be sure to book a hotel room with air conditioning. Paris does not follow a predictable pattern; It can be wonderful outdoor weather, or it can rain quite hard.
The south of France and the center of the country can be very hot in July. Paris and the northern part of the country can get a lot of rain, while Nice along the French Riviera has an average of two rainy days in July.
Until the end of July, there is the possibility of the mistral, a dry wind that keeps the weather in Provence unusually sunny, but can also spread forest fires.
What to pack
Since the weather can be unpredictable, it makes sense to be prepared. Either that or they plan to do a lot of clothing shopping, which might not be a bad idea as July has some of the best shopping with vendors lining the streets.
Since it is summer, you can wear light cotton clothing, T-shirts, shorts, and sandals. However, if you plan to visit the cities and towns, you may want to bring comfortable walking shoes. Pack sunglasses, a visor or hat, and sunscreen for sunny days. If you plan to go to the beach, bring your bathing suit. You may want to bring a light jacket, long pants, and closed-toe shoes for cooler nights. Pack an umbrella, especially if you are going to be in Paris, which has a higher chance of rain than other parts of the country in July.
Traveling in July: pros and cons
France celebrates everything from food to music, and boasts of having some of the best world-class jazz festivals in July. You will also discover wonderful street theaters, crafts and the best classical and popular music. Also, you can follow the most famous cycling race in the world, the Tour de France (this is both an advantage and a disadvantage, as if you plan to drive through France, there may be road closures).
All museums and attractions are open. And, in summer, most attractions extend the summer hours with some openings at night.
Shopping improves in July. Markets, particularly in the south of France, fill the streets with tempting stalls. Massive sales are taking place throughout the month of July. It is the season of official sales regulated by the government in France. Check out the stores with » Soldes » signs in the windows. And if you’re in the country, remember those famous one-day sales called vides greniers (emptying the attic). If there is one near you, try to go; you get great bargains and a fun day out.
Eating outdoors is in full swing. July is the best month for paving and dining on the terrace. The outdoor cafes are doing a good business.
As it is a popular time, you may experience higher rates for flights and accommodation. Plus, you can get caught up in the crowds of vacationing visitors from the rest of Europe, particularly in popular places like the Côte d’Azur and the Loire Valley.
Although the weather generally cooperates, a heat wave can occur in July, making it another scam, although if you plan a trip to the south of France, the waters of the Mediterranean will keep you cool.
Featured festivals and events
- Festival d’Avignon is an annual arts festival held in Avignon, France, every July in the courtyard of the Palais des Papes since 1947. It is the oldest festival in France.
- Bastille Day is generally celebrated with fireworks throughout France. Bastille Day in Paris usually includes a military parade on the Champs Elysees, a dance party, and much more.
- The International Chaumont-sur-Loire Garden Festival in the Loire Valley is France’s answer to the Chelsea Flower Show in London.
