Every travel enthusiast has dreamt of visiting France once in their lifetime. France is known all around the world for its endless history, jaw-dropping scenery, rich culture, scrumptious gastronomy and of course, fashion. From the towering French Alps to the Mediterranean coast of the French Riviera, France has a lot to offer to its visitors. Discover this amazing country in January to witness lovely white snow in the northern parts and a cool weather in the southern parts of the country. January is a great month to visit France as has lesser crowd, economical stay options, low airfares and so much more.
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Weather in France in January
The beautiful country of France has varying weather patterns in January. Some days in January are cold and clear while others are rainy and snowy. January makes up a perfect month for a visit because it is one of the cheapest months with better deals on flights and accommodation.
There is not much crowd and it is easier to explore the city’s attractions without standing in queues. The weather widely depends on which region of France you are planning to visit. For coastal regions pack an umbrella and waterproof gear with warm clothes and for central, eastern, and northern, France pack winter clothes including a winter coat, warm jackets for daytime, sweaters, scarf, hat, gloves and comfortable boots.
- Temperature (Average): 5°C (41°F)
- High Temperature (Average): 5.9°C (42.6°F)
- Low Temperature (Average): 1.8°C (35.2°F)
- Day Temperature (Average): 4.6°C (40°F)
- Night Temperature (Average): 4.1°C (39°F)
- Rainfall (Average): 18 MM
Also read – France In August – The Perfect time for a Dazzling Vacation!
Best Places to Visit in France in January
1. Paris
No doubt why Paris is the main reason why people visit France. This city of love is magical in every season but is more lovely and ravishing in winters. The city covered in snow with a cold breeze is something to experience. Engage in an ice rink at Champs-Elysées, stroll around the Serres d’Auteuil, eat delicious pastries, watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle with snow and lights at night time and so much more. The enchanting vibes of the city attract a lot of tourists so, when are you planning to experience these vibes?
Also read – 10 Most Romantic Hotels to Stay in Paris
2. Nice
The French Riviera’s largest city is worth exploring in January as the weather in the Mediterranean is the nicest in the Nice. This wonderful city offers picturesque seaside sceneries just like those shown in tons of paintings. You can stroll around the cobblestone streets of Vieille Ville, explore the Promenade Du Pailon, admire the art in the museums and have amazing local food.
3. Bordeaux
Bordeaux is known for tasting different varieties of wines in France. This city is a special treat for all the wine lovers out there. There are plenty of wine tasting festivals hosted in the winter months. If you wish to do something other than wine then you can spend some time in concert halls, visit different and unique exhibitions, eat warm street food and so much more.
4. Provence
This joyful city is located in the southern part of France. You can enjoy your cosy time in Provence by visiting the buzzing Christmas markets, going picnic by the sea, exploring Les Calanques, visit Aix-en-Provence, historic Avignon, and Marseille for some great sights and views.
5. Lyon
Lyon is another best option to visit in France in January. Visit this cheerful city for some amazing activities in winter such as sightseeing, visiting exhibitions and museums, going skiing, exploring La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière and participating in many other activities. End all your cravings here at Lyon.
Also read – 8 best things to do in Lyon for an amazing holiday experience
Major Festivals in France in January
1. New Year’s Day (1 January): It is an official bank holiday and you can expect nationwide closures.
2. Epiphany/ Feast of the Kings (6 January): It is also a national holiday that is celebrated on the 12th day of Christmas, which falls on the 6th of January. On this day a special cake known as une galette de rois is made with a special hidden porcelain figure inside. It is then served and eaten by all and whoever receives that special figure in their slice is named king for the day.
3. Sarlat Truffle Festival (15-16 January): The astounding mediaeval town of Sarlat hosts a festival celebrating the truffle in mid-January. You can expect truffle flavoured gourmet specialities, workshops, live music, and so much more.
4. The Winter Sales: Les soldes d’hiver offers amazing and genuine sales which are controlled by the government. The sale starts in mid-January and ends around mid-February.
Also read – France in December – All in One Guide For a Perfect End to the Year
Tips For Your Trip To France In January
- In January you can witness very less crowds and no long queues. The price of aeroplane tickets and hotel rooms is also low compared to other months.
- Don’t forget to visit and participate in skiing as France offers some of the best skiing areas and slopes in the world.
- In January, some hotels, cafes and restaurants may be closed due to their annual leave in southern France.
- Weather is very unpredictable in France as sometimes it can be cold, cloudy or sometimes clear and it can cause travel delays by air, rail, or car.
- Learn basic French words such as Bonjour- hello, Merci – thankyou and so on
- Carry your passport/picture IDs all time while exploring the cities of France.
- The southern region of France is a round-year destination and can be visited any time.
Also read – France In November: All in One Guide To a Splendid Winter Vacation
Frequently Asked Questions For France in January
You can plan your visit to Paris, Nice, Provence and Bordeaux in France in January and have altogether a different perspective to look at France.
The High Temperature (Average) in France is around 5.9°C (42.6°F).
Nice is located on the southeastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, French Riviera. It is the French Riviera’s largest city and is worth exploring in January as the weather in the Mediterranean is the nicest.
Major festivals celebrated in France in January are New Year’s Day, Epiphany/ Feast of the Kings (6 January), Sarlat Truffle Festival, The Winter Sales and some more.
Don’t waste your time thinking and plan your France vacation this January! Explore this lovely country by planning your travel at Pickyourtrail as it offers amazing deals on France tour packages. Here, you can also customise your France itinerary just as you want and explore the country to the fullest. Check out these stunning packages now!
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