Weather in France in November

If you prefer smaller crowds and lower costs, November can be a good time to visit France. Just be aware the weather in France in November can be rather cold, and rain is very likely, which means the month is better suited to travelers who are looking to visit cultural attractions than those who want to explore the great outdoors. Read on for detail on the weather in France in November, along with info on festivals and events, and inspirational trip ideas.

France in November at a glance

• Average low temperature range:: 35°F to 45°F (2°C to 7°C); average high: 45°F to 55°F(7°C to 13°C).
• November sees France shift from late-autumn to winter.
• Colder temperatures and increased rainfall are better-suited for sightseeing in cities and indoor activities.
• Sitting in low season, November is a quieter time to visit, and can cost less.

What is the weather like in France in November?

The weather in France in November is pretty cold (head south if you want it warmer). This is also one of the rainiest months of the year.

For example, Paris and Northern France typically sees 2.8 to 3.2 inches (70 to 80 mm) of rainfall in November, with Southern France (Provence, Côte d'Azur) and Western France experiencing around 3.0 to 3.6 inches (75 to 90 mm).

Meanwhile, the driest months, July and August, see an average of 0.5 to 1.5 inches (12 mm to 40 mm).

All that considered, the weather in France in November is better suited to culture-focussed trips and indoor activities.

Keen to kickstart your France vacation? Talk to our local experts to start curating your dream trip.

Average daily temperatures in November

When it comes to temperatures, the weather in France in November sees average lows ranging from 35°F to 45°F (2°C to 7°C), while average highs are typically 45°F to 55°F (7°C to 13°C). 

Regional variations are detailed below.

Paris and Northern France

• Highs: 45°F to 50°F (7°C to 10°C)
• Lows: 38°F to 42°F (3°C to 6°C)

Southern France (Provence, Côte d'Azur)

• Highs: 55°F to 60°F (13°C to 16°C)
• Lows: 43°F to 50°F (6°C to 10°C)

Western France (Bordeaux, Loire Valley)
 

• Highs: 50°F to 55°F (10°C to 13°C)
• Lows: 40°F to 45°F (5°C to 7°C)

Eastern France (Lyon, Alsace)

• Highs: 45°F to 50°F (7°C to 10°C)
• Lows: 35°F to 40°F (2°C to 5°C)

French Alps & Pyrenees

• Highs: 38°F to 45°F (3°C to 7°C)
• Lows: 30°F to 35°F (-1°C to 2°C)

Want an overview of the weather in France around the year? Read up on the best time to visit France.

Is November a good time to visit France?

As always, the answer to this question depends entirely on what you’re hoping for from your trip. 

Given the average temperatures and likelihood of detailed above, it’ll be clear that November isn’t a month to visit France if you’ve always longed to stretch out on some of the country best beaches, or were hoping to go on long hikes in glorious sunshine.

Rather, November can be good time to visit France if you want to experience the cultural aspects of the country’s best things to see and do, including wining and dining in cosy restaurants and bistros, and visiting museums and galleries. 

Another important point is that November sits in a low season for tourism, which means top attractions (like museums and galleries) will be far less crowded (and cheaper) than they are in the preceding peak and shoulder season periods.

In summary, November is a good time to visit France if you’re hoping to explore cultural attractions and dig into France’s fine food and wine (keep reading for info on November's Beaujolais celebrations) in less crowded conditions. 

Not set on France? Browse more suggestions for the best places to travel in November.

What about the crowds and cost?

As mentioned above, November is low season in France, which means crowds will be a great deal smaller than they are during the peak of summer, and during September’s shoulder season. 

This makes it an ideal time to visit popular sites without long lines or heavy tourist traffic. All of which can add up to a more relaxed, authentic experience.

In addition, you’ll most likely be able to pay less for flights and accommodation in November, depending on where you’re planning to go. 

For example, Paris doesn’t see significant fluctuations in accommodation costs around the year. 

On a budget? Discover great things to do in Paris for FREE!

Festivals and events in France in November

Read on for a taste of some of the festivals and events you could experience in France in November.

Les Trois Glorieuses

Held in Beaune, Burgundy, across the third weekend in-November, Les Trois Glorieuses wine auction and festival presents bands, parades, street entertainers and stalls.

There's also a half-marathon through the vineyards, and plenty of opportunities to taste wine and fine food in local restaurants. 

Beaujolais Nouveau Release

The release of the first wine of the season — the Beaujolais Nouveau — is marked nationwide on the third Thursday in November, especially in the Beaujolais wine region and Lyon — the city that has it all.

This is celebrated with parties, tastings, and wine-focused celebrations.

Christmas markets

From late November, France’s festive Christmas markets start to spring up, with the most notable in Strasbourg, Colmar, and other towns in the Alsace.

Expect a festive atmosphere with local crafts, food, and twinkling lights.

Planning a trip to France? Our 7-day Southern France itinerary might be just what you’re looking for.

Ready for your dream trip to France?

Before booking you dream trip to France, browse our France itineraries for inspiration. 

Using our tailor-made trip platform means you’ll get to forgo the hassle of planning. 

Here are a few sample itineraries:

• Active Walking Tour from Paris to Southern France: this active itinerary will see you explore the length of France. After spending a few days in Paris, your southbound journey will see you traverse scenic hills, mountains and villages en route to Uzés and Avignon, with opportunities to enjoy adventure activities and cultural experiences long the way.
• A Taste of Eastern France: kicking off in Lyon, this 4-day walking itinerary combines fine food and fresh-air experiences in immersive style. After enjoying delicious food tours in Lyon, you’ll embark on a scenic walk through the beautiful Beaujolais region, with pretty much every day rounded off with a wine-tasting experience.
• Scenic Southern France: this spectacular tour starts in the coastal city of Marseille. After taking a walking tour of the city, you’ll uncover captivating Cassis by bike before venturing to the Alpilles to explore Provence, taking in Les Baux and St Remy, ending your trip in Avignon.

Inspired? Contact our local experts to start curating your own dream trip to France.