June is a glorious month to visit France. The French are getting into the festive climate, though their main holiday season is from mid-July to mid-August, from Bastille Day on July 14 to around August 14. While Paris is extremely popular with travelers this time of year, there is much more to France outside of Paris, and you can avoid the crowds there if too many tourists are negative for you.
Weather in June
In June, the weather in France is generally mild. You can expect wonderful blue skies and warm temperatures most of the time, but there can still be spring rains and cold nights, particularly in the mountainous regions of France.
The weather varies only slightly across the country in June. These are the climatic averages for some of the main cities:
- Paris: 55 F lows, 72 F highs
- Bordeaux: 53 F lows, 75 F highs
- Lyon: 55 F lows, 75 F highs
- Nice: 61 F lows, 75 F highs
- Strasbourg: lows of 54 F highs of 73 F
What to pack
While most areas of France have similar weather in June, packing can be tricky if you visit the mountains and the Mediterranean. It can still be chilly at night in the Alps and in the highlands, while you can sunbathe along the Mediterranean.
The basics to throw in your bag include light cotton clothing for sunny days; a light jacket, sweater or windbreaker; a bathing suit; umbrella; and sunscreen. Good walking shoes are a must for any trip to Europe.
What to expect
As the weather warms up, you’ll find that France’s parks and gardens are at their best, with vibrant colors and sweet-smelling flowers and shrubs. All museums and attractions, both large and small, are open. Check ahead, as many begin their extended summer hours, with special outdoor events on offer.
June is the start of festival peak season, when France begins to celebrate everything from food to music and from street theater to crafts. Virtually every big city and town puts on a show. And the summer season of the jazz festival begins.
Shopping gets even better during the summer sales season. It is in operation from mid-June to the first week of August. Check out the stores with “Soldes” signs in the windows.
One of the best advantages of June: it’s time to sit in a sidewalk cafe or terrace watching the world go by, day and night. This is an iconic French experience and one not to be missed.
Reflexes
In addition to the fabulous weather, blooming flowers and the multitude of attractions that France offers regardless of the season, June 2019 has some special attractions:
- May 20 to June 9, 2019: Roland-Garros French Open Tennis Championship, Paris
- International Festival of Gardens Chaumont-sur-Loire in the Loire Valley: France’s answer to the Chelsea Flower Show in London
- Early June: D-Day Landing Events and Festivals
- June 15: 24 Hours of Le Mans, Le Mans, Maine
- June 8-15: Beer Week in Paris – Raise a glass and join the locals for some delicious hops.
