France in June: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

June is a glorious month to visit France. The French are getting into the holiday mood, though their main vacation season is mid-July to mid-August, from Bastille Day on July 14 to around August 14. While Paris is extremely popular with travelers at this time of year, there's a lot more of France outside Paris, and you can avoid the crowds there if too many tourists for your taste. 

Weather in June

In June, the weather in France is generally mild. You can count on wonderful blue skies and warm temperatures most of the time, but there can still be spring showers and chilly evenings, particularly in the mountainous regions of France. 

The weather varies only slightly across the country in June. Here are weather averages for some of the major cities:

• Paris: Lows of 55 F, highs of 72 F
• Bordeaux: Lows of 53 F, highs of 75 F
• Lyon: Lows of 55 F, highs of 75 F
• Nice: Lows of 61 F, highs of 75 F
• Strasbourg: Lows of 54 F highs of 73 F

What to Pack

While most areas of France have similar weather in June, packing can be tricky if you are visiting both the mountains and the Mediterranean. It can still be cold at night in the Alps and on high ground, while you can sunbathe along the Mediterranean.

Basics to throw in your bag include light cotton clothes for sunny days; a light jacket, sweater, or windbreaker; a swimsuit; umbrella; and sunscreen. Good walking shoes are a must for any trip to Europe. 

What to Expect

As the weather warms up, you’ll find that France’s parks and gardens are at their best, with vibrant colors and sweet-smelling flowers and shrubs. All the museums and attractions, both big and small, are open. Check ahead, as many begin their extended summertime hours, with special outdoor events on offer.

June is the start of the high festival season, when France starts to celebrate everything, from food to music and from street theater to arts and crafts. Virtually every large city and town puts on a show. And the summer jazz festival season gets going. 

Shopping gets even better during the summer sales season which is on from mid-June to the first week of August. Check out the shops with "Soldes" signs in the windows. 

One of the best perks of June: It’s time to sit at a sidewalk cafe or on a terrace watching the world go by, day and night. This is an iconic French experience and one not to miss.

June Events in Paris

Besides the terrific weather, blooming flowers, and the multitude of attractions France offers no matter the season, June holds some special attractions.

• Roland-Garros French Open Tennis Championship, Paris: Tennis fans and greats gather in Paris to watch two weeks of matches.
• Chaumont-sur-Loire International Garden Festival in the Loire Valley: France's answer to the Chelsea Flower Show in London
• D-Day landing festivals and events. Including memorials at The Airborne Museum in Sainte-Mère-Église, Utah Beach, the American World War II Cemetery, and Juno Beach Center.
• 24 Hours of Le Mans, Le Mans, Maine, the ultimate automobile endurance battle that finds teams from around the globe competing behind the wheel for a full day.
• Paris Beer Week: Raise a glass and join the locals for tasty hops.