Exploring 21 Best Places to Go in France in November

One of the most romantic travel locations, France exudes beauty just by being there. The Eiffel Tower and its distinct culture, which is mirrored in music, fashion, art, and architecture, are what draw people to it. It’s difficult to adequately capture the splendor of French living with its dynamic cities, breathtaking scenery, and gothic churches. Whichever month of the year you choose to come, there is always plenty to do during a holiday in France. November would be the ideal time for you to travel to France if you want to see the country’s vibrant culture and lifestyle up close. Find out the 21 best places to go in France in November, as it may just make you fall even more in love with the country.

Is November a good time to visit France?

Absolutely YES! While summertime in France may be the most popular time for tourists to visit, November also has its own charm and benefits. Let’s expand on each section regarding visiting France in November:

What makes it special?

It’s common to refer to November as Shoulder Season when it comes to visitor arrivals. In November, visitors should avoid rushing through France because the country is getting more and more popular for leisure vacations! This information is also intended to show off how special your November experience will be. You have one month to take part in French festivals, one month to learn about French culture, one month to savour French food at your own pace, and one month to unwind completely.

November is the only month that provides everything from walking the streets of Paris, Nice, and Bordeaux to incredibly cheap flights to a variety of French places. Additionally, you’ll discover some of the best bargains and lodging alternatives of the year wherever you go in France. November is the best month to visit France, particularly if you want to travel on a budget. This is a good time for introverts or people who prefer quiet to bustle and loudness; there won’t be many people around and there won’t be as many lines or lineups. This, in my opinion, is one of the best seasons to visit this stunning part of France.

Weather

In November, fall comes to an end and winter starts to linger. In actuality, though, the weather in France varies depending on the place you visit. Generally speaking, nevertheless, France experiences warmer winters than other European nations. Paris will be damp during this time of year, with sporadic showers and sunlight. You may feel the average temperature ranging from 3 to 8 degrees Celsius.

In contrast, central and southern France—like Lyon—will see milder temperatures and sunnier days that accentuate the fall leaves. If you visit the Alps in the meantime, you can enjoy some snow. Because of the weather, November is the best month in France to plan some of the most interesting activities and events.

Crowds

November is considered the shoulder season in France, meaning fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months. This presents an advantage for travelers who prefer a more relaxed and uncrowded experience at popular attractions. Exploring iconic sites and landmarks becomes more enjoyable without the hustle and bustle of peak-season crowds.

Costs

For budget-conscious travelers, November offers the potential for cost savings. Accommodation prices and travel expenses tend to be more affordable due to lower demand. This can be particularly advantageous for those looking to experience the beauty of France without exceeding their budget.

Cultural Events

While November may not host as many outdoor festivals, there are still ample cultural activities to enjoy. Museums, art galleries, and indoor events continue to thrive. It’s an excellent time to immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of France, appreciating its artistic and historical treasures.

Wine Regions

November is a fantastic time for wine enthusiasts to visit French wine regions. The grape harvest season occurs during this month, and various wine-related events and tastings take place. Regions like Burgundy come alive with the celebration of “Beaujolais Nouveau,” offering a unique and delightful experience for wine connoisseurs.

Christmas Markets

Towards the end of November, France begins preparing for the festive season. Christmas decorations start to adorn cities, and Christmas markets emerge. Cities like Strasbourg, known for hosting one of Europe’s oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets, provide a charming and magical atmosphere that adds to the allure of November in France.

In summary, visiting France in November offers a mix of cultural experiences, budget-friendly options, and the chance to witness the beginning of the festive season. It’s an ideal time for those seeking a more tranquil and unique exploration of the country. November, in my opinion, is one of the best seasons to visit this stunning part of France.

21 Best places to visit in France in November

Paris

Paris, the epitome of lyrical France, is undoubtedly the first thing that comes to mind when one mentions France. Paris is a gorgeous city year-round, but the trees, the Seine, and the Eiffel Tower take on new hues when covered in a layer of snow in the winter. Visit Galeries Lafayette to catch a peek at the amazing gold-adorned Christmas tree. Winter is also the ideal season to embrace your inner ballerina, and the Champs-Elysées ice rink is a great spot to go on the ice. When Christmas approaches, the entire city of Paris is decked up in fairy lights, and streets are surrounded by freshly chopped trees that have been festooned and ornamented. There isn’t a more captivating sight anywhere! This is undoubtedly one of the best French cities to visit in the winter.

• Activities: Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, Louvre Museum, and Eiffel Tower
• Accommodations: Grand Hotel De Paris, St. Christopher’s Inn
• How to get there: There are three airports in Paris, and they are connected to nearly every location in the globe.

Nice

Savor the festivities of the Nice Carnival, which spans over two weeks. Participate in the Flower Parade, known as the Bataille des Fleures, and see the enormous floats pass by. You must wait until the very end to see the flowers being picked and poured down on the pedestrians—a spectacle not to be missed. Oh, and don’t forget to ride the enormous Ferris wheel in Nice which is open exclusively in the winter. It is among the top winter travel destinations in France.

• Activities: Musée Matisse, Promenade des Anglais
• Accommodations: Hôtel Nice Excelsior, The Negresco
• How to get there: The most dependable method to get to Nice is by SNCF trains.

Nantes

In the winter, a trip to France is a necessity if you enjoy classical music. Performers from all around the globe assemble at Nantes’ La Folle Journée Classical Music Festival to play music just how you want it! Undoubtedly, Nantes ranks among the top French cities to visit in the winter to experience the enchantment of music.

• Activities: Isle of Nantes Machines, Château des ducs de Bretagne
• Accommodations: the Hotel Ibis Nantes Centre Tour Bretagne and the Radisson Blu Hotel, Nantes.
• How to get there: The most convenient way to get here is to take a TGV from Paris, getting off in Nantes.

Menton

There isn’t much you could do better if you are traveling to Menton in the winter. The magnificent Fête du Citron, often known as the Lemon Festival, takes place in Menton. For two weeks, the town centre is transformed into a floating, statue-like, and figurine-filled display of various sizes, all crafted from lemons and oranges. If you’re visiting Menton, you should be sure to get a small statue for yourself during the celebration. The celebration often heralds the approach of spring and occurs at the conclusion of winter.

• Activities: Basilique Saint-Michel-Archange, Serre de la Madone, and Val Rahmeh-Menton Botanical Garden
• Accommodations: Hôtel Lemon, Hôtel Princess et Richmond Menton
• How to get there: From Nice, take a regional train to Ventimiglia, getting off at Menton.

The French Alps and the Pyrenees

If you’re searching for the top destinations in France to visit in November, this is the place to go! Of all the areas one may visit in France during the winter, the French Alps are perhaps the most breathtaking. In France, January and February are the best months to engage in snow activities. To better connect with nature and experience the peacefulness of this place, I believe you should also spend some time walking if you get the chance to visit in November. Numerous snow-related sports are available, including snowboarding, dog sledging, ice climbing, snowshoeing, downhill skiing, and ice rappelling. The popular French ski town of Megève hosts an annual Snow Polo tournament, which is worth seeing if you’d rather not participate.

• Activities: Jungfrau, Chillon Castle, and Neuschwanstein Castle
• Accommodations: RockyPop Hotel and Hotel Mercure Chamonix les Bossons.
• How to get there: The location is well-served by national transportation. The international airport closest to you is Grenoble.

Roquemaure

Why not visit the village of Roquemaure, where the town church holds the remains of Saint Valentine, the patron saint of love if you’re looking for places to go in November? November is a good time to visit Roquemaure. The weather is often very cold with light winds, with temperatures ranging from 22–33°F (-6–1°C). Roquemaure has plenty to offer visitors of all ages and interests.

If you are a religious researcher, Roquemaure is a place you should immediately put on your list.

• Activities: Castle Manissy, Île de Miémar, and Parc Amazonia
• Accommodations: Le Clément V Hotel, Chambre Cocoon
• How to get there: The best way to get to Roquemaure is by public transportation.

Monaco

An enormous outdoor swimming pool in Monaco called the Stade Nautique Rainier III is converted into an incredible ice rink. Ice-karting is an additional option that consists of six laps. Where else would you get the opportunity to go ice-karting and reach previously unattainable speeds? Additionally, the pool is near the harbor, so you can see the Mediterranean Sea, Monte Carlo, and large ships. One of the most important winter activities in France is ice skating. Still, that’s not all! Another fascinating aspect of Monaco is its fauna, which you shouldn’t miss!

• Activities: Prince’s Palace of Monaco, Musée Océanographique de Monaco, and Casino Monte-Carlo 
• Accommodations: Fairmont Monte Carlo, Hotel Novotel Monte Carlo, Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo
• How to get there: Nice’s Cote d’Azur Airport is regularly connected and situated 22 kilometers from Monaco.

Perigord

Perigord is a must-see destination if you’re ever in France during the winter! Black truffles are no longer native to France, although many people still identify this delicacy with the Perigord area of the nation. The greatest months to savor the freshest French winter black truffles are November through March; in January and February, they are at their most fragrant and flavorful. Feel free to sate your hunger.

• Activities: Lascaux exploration, Marqueyssac gardens, and Castelnaud-la-Chapelle castle
• Accommodations: Hôtel Le Relax, Logis Hostellerie du Périgord Vert
• How to get there: To get to Perigord, catch the high-speed train Dordogne at any nearby train station.

Camargue

Don’t overlook the Camargue while considering winter travel destinations in France. Winters in the Camargue tell a different narrative from summers when it’s teeming with residents and tourists on camping excursions. It is one of the most wonderful locations to visit in France during the winter since it is a refuge for bird enthusiasts and falls on the migratory path. Several kinds of birds spend the winter season here. The pink flamingos are a particular favorite as their plumage gets progressively more colorful at this time of year as they get ready for their yearly mating ritual.

• Activities: Church of St. Trophime, the Arles Amphitheatre, and the Musée de l’Arles et de la Provence antiques.
• Accommodations: Le Mas de Peint, Mas de Sylvereal Camargue, Hotel les bains de Camargue
• How to get there: Nîmes, Marseille-Provence, is home to the closest airport to the Camargue and has excellent road access.

Corsica

Consider spending a winter in Corsica while choosing a location in France. Perhaps you’ve had your fair share of snow and skiing, but if you do find yourself in France during the winter, Corsica offers a gentler environment. You may enjoy a sunny Christmas as well as hiking, mountain climbing, and hunting when there aren’t as many visitors around!

• Activities: Cap Corse, Scandola Nature Reserve, and Calanques de Piana
• Accommodations: Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Ajaccio Bay, Hotel Artemisia, U Paesolu
• How to get there: Figari Airport, Ajaccio, Bastia, and Calvi are all well-connected to Corsica.

Bordeaux

In France, sampling various wines is regarded as one of the most enjoyable activities. One of the greatest French towns to visit in the winter, or any time of year, is Bordeaux; it’s a unique experience, particularly for wine enthusiasts. You won’t get to see the vineyards in full bloom, but you will still be able to drink the wine of your choosing. Winter offers a number of wine-tasting events, which may provide you with the opportunity to have the venue nearly to yourself since the tourist season is drawing to an end.

• Activities: the Place des Quinconces, Bordeaux Cathedral, and the Place de la Bourse, etc.
• Accommodations: Hotel De l’Opéra, Seeko’o Hôtel Design Bordeaux, Bordeaux Ville Arena
• How to get there: The best route to Bordeau is via the Beltway, despite its congestion.

Aquitaine

Therefore, if you’re visiting France in the winter after you’ve played in the snow, you should definitely keep an eye out for some mild weather. This stunning location, which is the warmest in France throughout the winter, is well-known for its year-round surfing scene, which is especially active at Moilets Beach. If you’re seeking the greatest spots to travel to in France during the winter with your family, this destination has to be on your itinerary. Aquitaine is one of the greatest destinations in France for December because of its sunny beaches, which are ideal for leisurely strolls and picture-perfect scenery. It provides access to the Dordogne and Bordeaux. If you’re in the area during the winter, don’t forget to check out the Festival du Film at Sarlat and the Carnaval de Periguex.

• Activities: Taking in the view
• Accommodations: Domaine de Bellevue, Belair le Camping, LE DOMAINE DE GUILLALMES
• How to get there: By bus is the most efficient method to get to Aquitaine. Aquitaine has excellent transportation links to other regions of France, so you may take any local bus from the city where you are staying.

Provence

Situated in the southern region of France, Provence has a serene, uncrowded winter season with an average temperature of 14 degrees. This implies that you won’t have to worry about the dense tourist population when taking a relaxing holiday in France. You’ll be in the greatest mood possible after visiting the bustling Christmas market! Provence is a great choice if you want to visit Nice and Marseilles later on. With me, one of the nicest destinations to travel to in France during the winter is this.

• Activities: Touring the French Riviera, the Verdon Gorge, and the Palace of the Popes
• Accommodations: Diamond Resorts’ Le Club Mougins, the Logis Hôtel de Provence
• How to get there: Provence is well-connected to the rest of the nation by land, sea, and air.

Bloise

Perched on a hill, the city of Bloise proudly stands on the banks of the Loire River. With its medieval cathedral and cobblestone streets, this location has a late Gothic feel. If you’re wondering where to travel in November in France, this is the place to go. The 16th to 19th century’s exquisitely decorated apartments, paintings, and sculptures may be seen at the royal residence, Chateau Royal de Bloise. The city is a great place to visit in the winter, when the windy air accentuates the city’s historic charm. You may create a romantic moment with your significant other by standing on the bridge and gazing at the slowly flowing river.

• Activities: Arranging a trip to Blois Cathedral, Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin, Château Royal de Blois, etc.
• Accommodations: Hôtel Le Pavillon, Hôtel de France et de Guise, Hôtel Côté Loire Auberge Ligérienne 
• How to get there: The best ways to go to Bloise are via tours and Orléans.

Beaune

If you are a wine enthusiast, beyond Bordeaux, you should not miss Beaune. Located in the centre of France’s Burgundy wine region stands the walled town of Beaune. Because it offers so many cozy French restaurants, this area is regarded as one of the greatest locations to visit in France during the winter. This is the ideal season to cozy up with some of France’s best red wines and hearty fares like coq au vin and beef bourginon. Don’t miss the stunning Hotel-Dieu’s architecture.

• Activities: the Boutique Wine Market, La Moutarderie Fallot, and the Hôtel-Dieu Museum.
• Accommodations: Logis Hôtel Belle Epoque, Hôtel Athanor
• How to get there: The best way to get to Beaune is by high-speed and regional trains.

Cannes

Cannes, which is in the south of France, has a good amount of winter. Although it does not get as cold as the rest of the Northern Hemisphere, it does get cold enough to have delightful winter weather here in France, with lows of 14 °C. One of the greatest spots in France to spend the winter is here. You will remember your vacation to this incredible location in this weather for years to come. Strolling around the marina is one of the nicest things to do in Cannes in the winter.

• Activities: Take a stroll around the marina, see the yachts
• Accommodations: Martinez Hotel
• How to get there: Pleasant The closest location is the Côte d’Azur Airport. As an alternative, you may take trains to Cannes

Colmar

Based on personal experience, Colmar is one of the most stunning places in France to visit during the winter months. In the winter, the warm glow of the town, the shimmering lights, and the aroma of wine enhance the spirits. The markets in Colmar provide a wide array of presents, culinary enthusiasts, and recreational opportunities. The location has a ton of indoor restaurants with fantastic drink and food options, making it a must-visit location for any winter travel schedule in France.

• Activities: Savor meals in restaurants with Michelin stars and have cocktails.
• Accommodations: Colmar Hotel
• How to get there: Take the train from Paris Est to Colmar.

Lyon

Lyon is the time I associate with the beautiful times of my youth, so this place is like my second home. Due to its many winter activities, including sightseeing, museum visits, and silk shopping, Lyon is considered one of the winter destinations you should not miss in France. One of the top things to do in Lyon is to witness the beautiful Festival of Lights during this time of year. This is also a great place to sample French food.

• Activities: Take in the illumination festival
• Accommodations: Première Classe Lyon Center Gare Part Dieu
• How to get there: Trains depart from Paris Gare De Lyon to Lyon Part Dieu

Martinique

During the frigid French winters, are you itching for some sun and sand? Here’s how to obtain it, then! Martinique, one of the nicest spots in France during the winter, is a wonderful Caribbean location with white beaches, palm trees, and a stunning sea. Arranging a stay at a Martinique hotel with a view of the ocean will enhance the experience. Enjoy a stroll along the shore, a trip through the breathtaking botanical gardens, a trek up a volcano, or maybe all of these activities in stunning Martinique. You should not miss Martinique, an island with an intriguing and rich past. 

• Activities: Take a volcano hike and go diving
• Accommodations: Hotel Bambou Martinique, Simon Hotel
• How to get there: Airport Martinique Aimé Césaire is the major connecting airport for Martinique

Marseille

Marseille is without a doubt one of the greatest French towns to visit in the winter. Even if it is the most underappreciated, you shouldn’t pass it up! Marseille, a port city that receives a lot of visitors from cruise ships these days, has a mysterious and enchanting winter, with the greatest part being that it’s milder than other seasons. When December rolls around, the city is so busy with Christmas celebrations and decorations that you forget about the bone-chilling cold and just enjoy it all.

• Activities: Try French provencal dishes, take a trip to Old Port
• Accommodations: InterContinental Marseille, Hotel Manon, Hotel Le Ryad
• How to get there: Marseille-Provence Airport is the nearest airport and is located just 27 kilometers away.

Alsace

Are you searching for winter destinations in France? We already have the greatest one for you, so there’s no need to search any more. Alright, enough guessing games! Alsace comes in last on my list of recommended destinations. You’ll probably be happy to see that this is a place that has, in the most lovely and welcoming way possible, managed to keep its old world charm! With hundreds of Alsatian villages and the historic towns of Colmar and Strasbourg, Alsace is a sight to see.

• Activities: Sightseeing, visit the cutesy cafes, visit the historic wine trails
• Accommodations: Ibis Strasbourg Centre Historique, James Boutique Hotel
• How to get there: Strasbourg Airport is the nearest airport to Alsace and is located at a distance of 41 kilometers.

FAQs

1. Where is the best weather in France in November?

The French Riviera, particularly cities like Nice and Cannes, enjoys mild Mediterranean weather in November, making it one of the best regions for pleasant temperatures.

2. What is the warmest part of France in November?

The southern regions, including Provence, the French Riviera, and Languedoc, tend to have warmer temperatures in November compared to the northern regions.

3. Why is Paris cheap in November?

November marks the off-peak season for tourism in Paris. With fewer tourists, accommodations and flights may be more affordable, providing an opportunity to explore the city on a budget.

Wrap Up

The nicest thing about France is that it appears to change with the seasons, making it stunning throughout the year! However, winters are unique since they make you feel at home in this popular tourist destination. All of the aforementioned winter travel destinations in France are regarded as national treasures. To get the greatest French experience, schedule a vacation to France during the winter. 

Share 21 best places to go in France in November with your other travelers and let us know in the comments section below.