August is normally a great vacation month, but in France (and especially in the north) it can be problematic. Most people get the month of August off in France, meaning you may find some shops are closed. Still, attractions are usually open and it can be a bit quieter than the rest of the year. The South of France tends to be quite packed this year, as many northerners head to the beaches. There is a festive, summer-vacation spirit here, and there are many festivals. Depending on your destination, the weather can be a bit too balmy, but it is surprisingly moderate in most of France.
Weather
The weather can be a bit extreme in August. There are major variations in climate depending on where you are in France, but here are some major cities:
- Paris: Average high temperature is 24 degrees celsius/75 degrees farenheit, and the average low is 13.9 celcius, 57 farenheit. Average rainfall is 55.2 millimeters, or 2.2 inches.
- Nice: Average high temperature is 26.7 degrees celsius/80 degrees farenheit, with the average low at 20 degrees celcius/68 degrees farenheit. Average rainfall is 31.6 millimeters, or 1.2 inches.
- Bordeaux: Average high temperature is 26.1 degrees celsius, 79 degrees farenheit, and the average low is 15 celcius/59 farenheit. Average rainfall is 59.1 millimeters, or 2.3 inches.
- Strasbourg: Average high temperature is 24 degrees celsius, or 75 degrees farenheit, and the average low is 14 celcius/55 farenheit. Average rainfall is 70.4 millimeters, or 2.8 inches.
What to pack
It can be challenging to pack for France, particularly if you will visit multiple cities. For the most part, this is a mild time of year. Be prepared for either hot days or cool nights, however. Your packing list should include:
- Sun screen
- Light clothes
- Flip flops
- Good walking shoes or sandals (Buy it now!)
- A bathing suit
Why to go in August
- Enjoy summer vacation the way the locals do
- The weather is warm
- All museums and attractions are open, usually with extended summertime hours
- There is a great vacation atmosphere
Why not to visit France in August
- The closings! It can be a real letdown to find things shut down for vacations
- Airfare and lodging is expensive
- There can be some really hot days
Events and festivals
- Bayonne Festival, which features bullfights, cow racing, dancing and a general festive atmosphere in this lovely Basque city near the Spanish border.
- Musique in Perigord, in Audrix, features young, up and coming musicians performing in the lovely Aquitaine countryside.
- Buzet Wine Festival
- Festival on the Champagne Route
- Cooking Festival in Pointe-Ã -Pitre
- Monte Carlo Internation Fireworks Festival
