France in May: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, & More

May is a fantastic month to explore France, offering mild temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. From exploring world-famous attractions to enjoying cultural events, May provides a more relaxed and comfortable travel experience. You'll find festivals like the Cannes Film Festival and the French Open adding a touch of glamour and excitement, while the blooming flowers and lush green landscapes make outdoor activities a must. With daylight spanning up to 16 hours by the end of the month, there’s plenty of time for sightseeing, dining, and soaking in the French countryside at its finest.

May in France is pleasantly mild, with comfortable temperatures that make it ideal for city strolls and countryside adventures. Paris sees average highs of 69°F, while Southern France enjoys warmer weather, with temperatures hovering around 68°F. Along the Atlantic coast, expect cooler conditions, typically ranging from 50°F to 66°F. Rain is always a possibility in spring, but you can generally expect around seven hours of sunshine per day. This blend of warmth and cool breezes makes May perfect for outdoor dining, vineyard tours, and exploring historical sites in comfort.

Provence • Best Place for Sightseeing

Provence in May offers the first signs of lavender blooms, making its picturesque villages even more magical. Charming hilltop towns like Gordes and Roussillon remain relatively uncrowded, giving you space to explore ancient streets and enjoy panoramic views. The Roman ruins in Arles and Nîmes are particularly captivating in the warm spring sun and without the crowds that descend later in the summer. The weather is perfect for scenic drives, photography, and leisurely walks through olive groves and vineyards.

Bordeaux • Best Place for Great Weather

With highs around 70°F and low humidity, Bordeaux enjoys long, sunny days perfect for leisurely wine tours. You’ll savor the warm afternoons as you tour some of the world’s finest vineyards or enjoy a relaxed outdoor meal in the charming squares. Mild evenings make it easy to stroll along the Garonne River or through the historic city center, taking in Bordeaux's beautifully lit landmarks. The comfortable weather makes May the ideal time to experience the region’s culinary and wine heritage.

Normandy • Best Place for Families with Children

Normandy in May is a fantastic destination for families, blending history, culture, and fun. The D-Day beaches and related museums offer an educational yet engaging experience for children, teaching them about an important chapter in world history. Mont Saint-Michel, with its fairy-tale setting, is another must-see, where your kids can explore winding streets and stunning views. A visit to Camembert farms adds a fun element and allows your children to see how cheese is made before enjoying tasty samples.

Champagne Region • Best Place for Romantic Scenery

Romance blooms in the Champagne Region during May, where vineyards start to burst with life. Stroll through picturesque villages and visit champagne houses for private tours and tastings that feel intimate and luxurious. Charming bed and breakfasts tucked in historic châteaux offer the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway, where you can sip champagne and take in the stunning vineyard views at sunset.

Auvergne • Best Place to Avoid the Crowds

For a quiet escape in May, head to Auvergne, where volcanic landscapes and peaceful trails await your arrival. Puy de Dôme’s dramatic views offer a serene setting for hiking or simply admiring nature. The region’s tranquil lakes and dense forests invite exploration without the crowds, making it ideal for travelers looking to unplug. Traditional villages and the region’s famous thermal spa towns remain peaceful, allowing you to relax and rejuvenate in the authentic calm.

Visit the Palace of Versailles

May is one of the best times to visit the Palace of Versailles, as the pleasant temperatures allow for a full day of exploration without the sweltering summer heat. The palace gardens are in full bloom, with vibrant flowers enhancing the beauty of the meticulously landscaped grounds. Fewer tourists compared to summer mean you’ll have more space to enjoy the grandeur of the Hall of Mirrors and the extensive garden paths, making your visit more leisurely and enjoyable.

Attend the French Open Tennis Tournament in Paris

The French Open is one of the four Grand Slam tennis tournaments and a highlight of May in Paris. Held at Roland Garros, the event offers an electric atmosphere as world-class athletes compete on its famous clay courts. The matches, combined with lively crowds and Parisian charm, make this a unique way to experience the city in late spring. You’ll be able to take in not only the tennis, but also the buzz of Paris, which comes alive during the tournament.

Take Part in the Nuit des Musées

Every May, Europe celebrates the Nuit des Musées, with many French museums opening their doors for special evening programs and free admission. It’s a fantastic chance to see world-class facilities like the Louvre or the Musée d'Orsay from a new perspective. Alongside the art and history, you’ll often find cultural performances and special exhibitions that add a unique touch to the experience, making it more than just a typical museum visit.

Participate in the Cannes Film Festival

The Cannes Film Festival in mid-May draws the world’s biggest stars to the French Riviera. As one of the most prestigious events in the global film calendar, it’s a glamorous affair that blends the world of cinema with the luxury of the Côte d'Azur. Public screenings and exclusive events make it a thrilling time to be in Cannes, where you can witness premieres, spot celebrities, and soak in the atmosphere of one of the world’s most famous film festivals.

Hike in the French Alps

As the snow begins to melt in May, the French Alps reveal a breathtaking landscape of alpine meadows and wildflowers. The moderate temperatures and clear skies create perfect hiking conditions, whether you’re taking a gentle stroll or tackling a more challenging route. The trails are quieter at this time of year, allowing you to enjoy the peaceful beauty of the mountains without the crowds, and offering stunning views of the emerging spring scenery.

May is an exceptional time to visit France, with its mild weather, blossoming landscapes, and a calendar full of cultural events. Whether you're exploring charming countryside villages, attending world-class festivals, or simply soaking in the extended daylight hours, May offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.

With fewer crowds and stunning scenery, our France travel guide can help you discover more of the country’s diverse regions in an ideal month. Find more inspiration on planning your perfect getaway with our France tours.