The Climate and Weather in France: What Students Should Know

France has a temperate climate, which means it’s generally mild—not too hot and not too cold. However, the weather can vary a lot depending on the season and region, so it’s important to pack clothes for all types of weather.


Seasons in France

  • Spring (March to May): Pleasant temperatures with sunshine, but expect some rain.
  • Summer (June to September): Can get hot, especially in the South, but rarely above 35°C.
  • Autumn (October to December): Beautiful days, but often damp and rainy.
  • Winter (December to February): Cold, sometimes below 0°C, with snow in mountainous areas.

Regional Differences

  • West / Atlantic Coast: Oceanic climate with mild but damp winters and moderate temperature differences. Rain is frequent.
  • East: Continental climate with warm summers (sometimes thunderstorms) and cold winters. Snow is common in mountainous areas.
  • South / Mediterranean: Hot summers, mild and dry winters, but autumn can bring heavy rain and thunderstorms.
  • Overseas Departments: Tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, rarely below 20°C.

Quick Tips for Students

  • Pack both warm and light clothing to be ready for all seasons.
  • Check regional weather forecasts before traveling or moving to a new city.
  • Remember that mountain areas and southern regions can have very different weather conditions.

France offers a variety of climates, so no matter where you study, you’ll experience something unique.

Source: Official Campus France website – www.campusfrance.org and Météo Francewww.meteofrance.com

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