Weather in France in September

Put simply, September is a wonderful time to visit France. Offering pleasantly mild weather that invites city-break sightseeing, outdoor activities, and heading to the coast to catch the last of the sun, it’s also a top time to head to France for festivals, and to experience the start of the wine harvest. Read on for detail on the weather in France in September, along with info on festivals and events, and inspirational trip ideas.

France in September at a glance

• The average low temperature range is 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 16°C), and the average high is 64°F to 78°F (18°C to 26°C).
• Expect mild, sunny weather with moderate rainfall as summer transitions to Fall.
• Sitting in shoulder season, crowds and costs will be smaller than the peak-season summer months. 

What is the weather like in France in September? 

In short, the weather in France in September is mild-to-warm, with many regions still basking in late-summer sun at the start of the month.

That said, Fall is on the horizon, which means temperatures drop as the month wears on. This also means that while rainfall is usually moderate in September, you’re likely to experience some, depending on the areas you visit. 

For example, Paris sees an average of 1.8 to 2.4 inches (45 to 60 mm) of rainfall through September, while Eastern France (Lyon, Alsace) can see up to 2.4 to 3.0 inches (60 to 75 mm).

These numbers compare with an average of around 3.9 to 5.1 inches (100 mm to 130 mm) in November and December — the wettest months.

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

It’s also worth knowing that September sits in a shoulder season for tourism, which means top tourist attractions will be less crowded than during the peak of the summer high season (July and August).

In addition, you could get lucky and pay less for flights and accommodation, subject to booking early and depending on where you stay. For example, Paris doesn’t see significant fluctuations in accommodation costs around the year. 

In summary, considering the weather in France in September, it’s a great month to explore cities and enjoy the country's scenic countryside and coastline in cooler, less crowded conditions.

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

Average daily temperatures in September

The weather in France in September sees an average low temperature range of 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 16°C), and average highs from 64°F to 78°F (18°C to 26°C). 

Read on for detail on regional variations.

Paris and Northern France

• Highs: 64°F to 72°F (18°C to 22°C)
• Lows: 50°F to 55°F (10°C to 13°C)

Southern France (Provence, Côte d'Azur)

• Highs: 70°F to 78°F (21°C to 26°C)
• Lows: 55°F to 60°F (13°C to 16°C)

Western France (Bordeaux, Loire Valley)

• Highs: 68°F to 75°F (20°C to 24°C)
• Lows: 54°F to 60°F (12°C to 15°C)

Eastern France (Lyon, Alsace)

• Highs: 66°F to 74°F (19°C to 23°C)
• Lows: 48°F to 55°F (9°C to 13°C)

French Alps & Pyrenees

• Highs: 57°F to 68°F (14°C to 20°C)
• Lows: 44°F to 54°F (7°C to 12°C)

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

Is September a good time to visit France?

In a word: yes. September is an excellent time to visit France. In fact — arguably — few months are better to make the most of the best things this diverse country has to offer. 

And the reasons? The warm-to-mild weather in France in September means you can take your pick from cultural and food-focussed trips, outdoor adventure itineraries, or beach breaks. 

On that subject, September is a great time to enjoy some of the best beaches in France — especially along the Côte d’Azur — in less-crowded style.

If you’re into French food and wine, note that September heralds harvest season — head to Bordeaux, Burgundy or Champagne for special tasting experiences. You might also want to read up on the best Bordeaux vineyards.

It’s also a wonderful month to explore the likes of Provence and the Loire Valley on foot or by bike, or to wander charming coastal villages in Brittany and Normandy.

And, while these isn’t a bad time to visit Paris, it’s true to say the city of light — and romance — is more pleasant in September, thanks to being less-crowded, and all the flamboyant fall foliage in its parks and palace gardens. 

Not set on France? Browse more suggestions for the best places to travel in September. As it happens, Toulouse made the cut.

What about the crowds and cost?

As mentioned above, September is a shoulder season month, which means crowds will be smaller than they are during the peak of summer. That said, it remains pretty busy at the start of the month, especially in popular coastal regions.

On balance, though, visiting France in September means you can expect less crowded attractions and beaches, making for a more relaxed and often more authentic experience.

Related, as a result of September being a little quieter, you could get lucky and pay a little less for flights, accommodation and tours and attractions. Book early to maximise your chance of saving money, though.

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

Festivals and events in France in September

Lucky you if you’re planning to visit France in September — its stacked with fabulous festivals and events. Here are some highlights.

Les Vendanges wine harvest festivals)

Throughout September, wine regions like Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne and Alsace celebrate the grape harvest with festivals and wine tastings. Many vineyards offer special tours and events through the month and into October

Journées du Patrimoine, nationwide

Over a weekend in mid-September, France’s Journées du Patrimoine sees historic sites, monuments and buildings that are usually closed to the public open their doors. These include everything from castles to government buildings.

Braderie de Lille, Lille

Held across a weekend in mid-September, Lille hosts one of Europe’s largest flea markets.Expect thousands of stalls selling antiques, clothing and collectibles.

Festival d’Automne, Paris

Featuring contemporary performances in music, theater, dance and visual arts, Paris’ esteemed autumn arts festival runs from September through to January.

Fixed on a Fall vacation but still not sure where to go? Discover some of the best places to go in Fall. Spoiler alert: it features Franche-Comte in France

Ready for your dream trip to France?

Before taking the plunge and booking your trip to France, browse our France itineraries for inspiration. What’s more, using our tailor-made trip platform means you’ll forgo the hassle of planning.

Read on for overviews of some 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 perfect trip to France.