It depends quite a lot on which area of France you are planning to visit, and how important the weather is. In truth, most regions of France are fine outside July-August. Some areas are always popular, almost year around – some parts of Provence and Paris mostly.

Really it’s the school holidays that are the time of congestion, and the two weeks before the holidays because of people without children – this suggests that anytime until mid-June will be OK to visit France.

If weather is important, early April can be a bit hit and miss, especially in the north of France, but also in the south. Some attractions that only open in the summer will be closed in April, as will some restaurants.

If you aren’t looking for a sun tan, May and early June is best for most places – perhaps even the end of June in Brittany and Normandy.

Hope that helps!

I am planning a trip to France next year. We want to come in Mid-April – early May – basically we’d like to come right before the main tourist season starts. I see here you mention the first two weeks in May. My quwestion, should we plan for early April instead?

Many thanks,
Cam Keeley
Seattle, Washington