France in May – Where To Go And What To Do in 2025

Last updated on December 20th, 2024 at 09:42 am

Wondering where to go in France in May?

You’ve come to the right place. I live in France and have done since 2016. May is an absolute explosion of colour, with the flowers in full bloom and blossom everywhere you look.

The wisteria is in overdrive, covering walls and doorways with its stunning lilac colour, and the days are much warmer.

You can always tell when spring has sprung where I live because the older men in the village gather for coffee outside the local cafe. They love to sit there and chew the fat, generally gossiping about the rest of us as we go about our daily lives. 

It’s the cafe culture that is so quintessentially French, and it always makes me smile.

So what can you expect if you come to France in May? There’s almost too much to talk about in one article, so I’ve broken it down into some of the best places to visit, festivals to add to your list and events you might enjoy. 

You’ll also find the weather broken down by region, just in case you’re not sure. 

So let’s dive in and find out where you should go in May if you’re thinking of doing a trip to France.

May in French

It’s always nice to know a bit of the local lingo, so to speak, whenever you’re visiting a country where the language is different. In this case, that country is France, and the word we want to know is May.

May in French is easy and very similar to the word in English, it’s “mai”. And a little tip, you don’t capitalise months in French unless they’re at the beginning of a sentence. I learnt that from my wonderful French teacher Sharon, who has the patience of a saint when it comes to teaching me French.

Weather in France in May

So first things first, you’ll want to know what the weather is like during May in France. And, of course, it varies from region to region.

So, below I’ve broken it down into the main regions in France to make it easy for you. 

Northern France (Including Paris and Normandy)

• Weather: May brings mild and pleasant weather, with average temperatures ranging between 10°C (50°F) and 20°C (68°F). 
• Experience: Paris blooms beautifully in spring, with outdoor cafes and riverbanks becoming especially inviting. Normandy shares a similar climate, making it perfect for visiting the historic D-Day beaches or exploring Mont Saint-Michel without the summer rush.

Western France (Including Brittany and the Loire Valley)

• Weather: This region experiences a maritime climate, with temperatures in May hovering around 11°C (52°F) to 19°C (66°F). 
• Experience: It’s a fantastic time for outdoor activities like cycling through the Loire Valley to witness its famous chateaux surrounded by lush greenery or exploring the rugged coastline of Brittany.

Southern France (Including Provence, the French Riviera, and Languedoc-Roussillon)

• Weather: Here it starts to warm up nicely in May, with temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 22°C (72°F), but can reach higher in areas like the French Riviera. 
• Experience: It’s an ideal time to enjoy the Mediterranean coast with fewer crowds, whether you’re lounging on the beaches of Nice or exploring the historical sites of Provence and Languedoc-Roussillon although the lavender fields might not be in full bloom yet.

Eastern France (Including Alsace, Lorraine, and the French Alps)

• Weather: May here brings a mix of mild to warm weather, with temperatures between 9°C (48°F) and 19°C (66°F). 
• Experience: Alsace and Lorraine are particularly lovely, as the vineyards start to come alive, and it’s the perfect time to visit the picturesque towns of Colmar and Strasbourg. Meanwhile, the French Alps are transitioning from winter to summer, making it a good time for late spring skiing or early hiking as the snow melts.

Central France (Including Burgundy and Auvergne)

• Weather: This region enjoys a temperate climate in May, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F). 
• Experience: It’s a brilliant time for wine enthusiasts to explore the vineyards of Burgundy without the crowds, and the natural parks in Auvergne offer breathtaking landscapes that are particularly lush and vibrant in the spring.

Where to go in France in May

France is a big country, and it’s impossible to list every single city and town in France that I’d recommend visiting in May. 

So instead, I’m giving you my five favourite places I’ve been to in May so I can give you first-hand experiences.

No 1 Giverny, Normandy in May

May is one of the best months to visit Giverny, Normandy, primarily because this is when Claude Monet’s famous garden is at its most spectacular with an explosion of spring colours.

The water lilies, irises, and azaleas are in bloom, mirroring the scenes from many of his paintings. The Clos Normand, in front of Monet’s house, is also ablaze with spring flowers.

Things to Do:

• Visit Monet’s House and Gardens: The main attraction in Giverny is the home and gardens of Claude Monet. You can walk through his flower garden, the Clos Normand, and the famous Japanese-inspired water garden, where you’ll find the iconic green Japanese bridge and water lilies.
• Explore the Musée des Impressionnismes: Just a short walk from Monet’s house, this museum is dedicated to the Impressionist movement. It hosts exhibitions featuring works by Monet and other Impressionist artists.
• Enjoy the Natural Beauty: The area around Giverny is perfect for walking or cycling. The Seine River and the surrounding hills offer beautiful landscapes that have inspired artists for centuries.

📌TOP TIP: Crowds: Given its popularity, especially in May, expect Giverny to be busy. Early morning or late afternoon visits can help avoid the largest crowds.

No 2 Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle, Alsace

I mentioned blooms earlier, and they come into their own in Alsace in May. Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle, sitting on top of the hill, has panoramic views of the surrounding Vosges mountains, vineyards, villages, and the Black Forest in the distance.

Dating back to the 12th century, the castle has been well restored giving you a peek into medieval French life.

Things to do:

• Visit the Castle: Over the centuries, it has witnessed numerous conflicts and changes in ownership. It was destroyed in 1462, rebuilt, and then fell into ruins after the Thirty Years’ War in the 17th century. Make sure you visit the Armory displaying a collection of weapons and armor from the medieval period, and the Living Quarters, including the lord’s apartments, furnished to reflect the daily life of the castle’s inhabitants during the Middle Ages.
• Explore the Surrounding Nature: The castle is surrounded by hiking trails through the Vosges mountains, and the trails are lined with spring flowers making it a beautiful time to hike.
• Visit Nearby Vineyards: Alsace is famous for its wine route, and many vineyards begin to open their doors for tours and tastings in May. It’s a perfect time to explore the local wine culture and enjoy tastings.

📌TOP TIP: Events: check the castle website for any events that might mean access to the castle is limited.

No 3 Aubeterre sur Dronne

I fell in love with Aubeterre sur Dronne as soon as I saw it. I went with a friend for the day in May last year as it’s only just over an hour’s drive away for me. It’s right on the borders of the Charente and Dordogne in southwest France and is officially classified as one of “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” (The Most Beautiful Villages of France). 

It sits on a high cliff made of limestone, so you have to walk down quite a steep hill to the village. But it’s worth it as the walls are covered in wisteria and the houses have window boxes filled with flowers, it’s so pretty.

Things to do:

• Underground Church of Saint-Jean: The monolithic Church of Saint-Jean is an underground church carved out of a cliff in the 12th century. It’s one of the largest of its kind in Europe, and we spent over an hour there. The price of the ticket includes audio, and it’s well worth it. Just standing there looking at the height of it you can’t help but wonder at how they managed to build something like that underground all those years ago.
• Wander the Village Streets: Aubeterre-sur-Dronne is known for its beautiful white stone houses and winding streets, and you never know what you might find. Walking around is the best way to discover lots of hidden gems and finish with a glass of wine in the market square.
• Visit the Pottery Workshops: The village is home to several artists and craftsmen, including potters who welcome visitors into their workshops. It’s a great opportunity to see local artisans at work, and I got the most gorgeous butter dish and egg holder from one of the shops there. Plus, a vintage tennis racket complete with its press.

📌TOP TIP: Don’t try and drive through the village as it’s really narrow. There is a car park at the top of the hill just above the village but get there early as it gets busy.

No 4 The Gardens of the Loire Valley

The Gardens of the Loire Valley span across various châteaux and estates, ranging from formal French styles to English landscape gardens, each offering a unique glimpse into the artistry and vision of their creators. Visiting in May is particularly lovely, as the gardens burst into life, with flowers blooming and the landscapes at their most lush and colourful.

Many châteaux offer guided tours of their gardens, providing insights into the history, design, and botanical aspects of the landscapes. 

Things to do:

• Visit Château de Villandry: Known for its Renaissance gardens, Villandry offers a stunning example of formal French garden design, including ornamental flower gardens, water gardens, and vegetable gardens arranged in geometric patterns.
• Explore the Gardens of Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire: This estate hosts the International Garden Festival from April to November, where contemporary garden designers from around the world showcase innovative and artistic landscapes.
• Wander Through Château de Chenonceau Gardens: The gardens of Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de’ Medici, set against the backdrop of the château spanning the Cher River, are a highlight for their elegance and historical significance.
• Enjoy Château de Chambord’s Park: While known for its iconic architecture, Chambord is also surrounded by a vast park that offers natural landscapes, walking paths, and opportunities to observe local wildlife.

📌TOP TIP: The Loire Valley spans a large area with numerous gardens and châteaux, so it’s essential to plan your visits to make the most of your time. Consider focusing on a specific area or selecting a few gardens that interest you the most to explore in depth. Additionally, renting a car can provide flexibility and ease of travel between the various estates and gardens.

No 5 La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a historic port city on the Atlantic coast in the Charente Maritime and I’ve been several times as it’s only a 90-minute drive for me. I love the history of the place as it was a stronghold for the Knights Templar in the Middle Ages, and more recently a base for the Nazis in WW2, so lots to take in.

It’s known for its seafood, especially the oysters and pretty much every restaurant you’ll find in La Rochelle will have them on the menu.

Things to do:

• Explore the Old Port (Vieux Port): The heart of La Rochelle, the Old Port is lined with medieval towers that once guarded the city with one being a prison. Today, it’s a lively area filled with boats and terraces offering fresh seafood.
• Visit the Aquarium: One of Europe’s largest private aquariums, the Aquarium La Rochelle is home to thousands of marine species. It’s an educational and fascinating experience for all ages.
• Stroll through the Old Town: La Rochelle’s Old Town is a maze of narrow streets, historic buildings, and charming squares. Don’t miss the Renaissance-style City Hall and the bustling market at Place de Verdun.
• Take a Boat Trip to Île de Ré: Just a short trip from La Rochelle, the Île de Ré is known for its white-washed houses, sandy beaches, and salt marshes. It’s an ideal spot for cycling, beachcombing, and tasting local delicacies.

📌TOP TIP: Night of Museums (Nuit des Musées) happens throughout France in May so it’s a great opportunity to visit Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle de La Rochelle, Musée Le Bunker de La Rochelle and Musée Maritime.

13 Festivals in France in May 2024

France loves to celebrate their culture, and there are numerous events and festivals held throughout the year, and May certainly has plenty on offer.

Believe it or not, May is the month when the winner of Paris’ best baguette competition is announced, La Meilleure Baguette de Paris, and it’s a big deal.

And the third Thursday in May is National Aperitif Day, and the 25th, which is also my Dad and daughter’s birthdays, is National Wine Day. How apt, especially where my Dad is concerned.

Whether you love the arts, history, motorsports, or music, there is a festival for you, some you’ll have heard of and some you won’t.

No 1 The Guardians Festival

This is history on steroids! Established in 1512, The Guardians Festival celebrates the history of Arles and the Brotherhood of the Guardians of St. George by honouring cattle herders of the Camargue with parades in traditional 17th-century attire. It’s a centuries-old tradition that features music and horsemanship displays in the Roman Arena, showcasing the guardians’ skills on their iconic white horses​​.

📆 Date: 1 May 2024

📍Location: Arles

🌐 Details: Visit the festival website

No 2 Journées Romaines de Nîmes

The Journées Romaines de Nîmes is a celebration of the city’s 2,000-year-old history, transforming Nîmes into a bustling Roman marketplace. Visitors can expect to find themselves amidst gladiator fights, traditional Roman parades, and workshops that bring the ancient world to life. The festival is set against the backdrop of the city’s stunning Roman monuments, including the famous Arena of Nîmes.

📆 Date: 3 – 5 May 2024

📍Location: Nîmes

🌐 Details: Visit the festival website

No 3 La Fête de l’Accordéon

The Accordion Festival is a lively celebration of music, culture, and community spirit, attracting musicians and enthusiasts from across France and has been a part of the event calendar in Lille for many years. During the festival, Wazemmes comes alive with the sound of accordions echoing through the streets, in cafes, and concert halls with free street performances, dance events, and workshops. The event showcases a wide range of music genres, from traditional French chansons to jazz, folk, and world music, all united by the versatile sounds of the accordion. 

📆 Date: 3 – 24 May 2024

📍Location: Lille

🌐 Details: Visit the festival website

No 4 Jazz sous les Pommiers

Jazz under the Apple Trees has a long-standing tradition of bringing together jazz enthusiasts from around the globe to the picturesque town of Coutances in Normandy. It features a mix of international stars and emerging talents across various jazz genres, from traditional and modern jazz to swing, blues, and even experimental jazz fusion. The event takes place in various venues around Coutances, including intimate clubs, open-air stages, and the town’s historic theatre.

📆 Date: 4 – 11 May 2024

📍Location: Coutances

🌐 Details: Visit the festival website

No 5 Cannes Film Festival

This one shouldn’t need too much introduction as it’s talked about internationally, with the stars and celebrities being snapped on the red carpet.

The first Cannes Film Festival was held from September 20 to October 5, 1946, making it one of the oldest and most prestigious film festivals in the world.

📆 Date: 14 – 25 May 2024

📍Location: Cannes

🌐 Details: Visit the festival website

No 6 Nuits Sonores

An electronic music festival known for its eclectic lineup, featuring a mix of established and emerging artists in the electronic music scene, it places a strong emphasis on community and inclusivity. One of the great things is not all the events are held at night there is plenty going on during the day with events taking place across various venues in Lyon, including industrial spaces, cultural sites, and open-air locations.

📆 Date: 7 – 12 May 2024

📍Location: Lyon

🌐 Details: Visit the festival website

No 7 Grand Prix de France

It’s one of the most anticipated events in the MotoGP calendar. Held at the iconic Le Mans Bugatti Grand Prix race circuit, this event draws motorcycle racing enthusiasts from all over the world. The Le Mans circuit is known for its challenging mix of high-speed straights, tight corners, and distinctive layout. 

Attendees can watch the world’s best riders compete across various classes, including MotoGP, Moto2, and Moto3. The event is also an opportunity for fans to engage with the sport more deeply, with access to rider meet-and-greets, autograph sessions, and the latest in motorcycle technology and merchandise.

📆 Date: 10 – 12 May 2024

📍Location: Le Mans

🌐 Details: Visit the event website

No  8 European Museum Night

This is one of the things I love about France, they try to ensure that the history and culture of France is available to everyone, including the many museums. 2024 celebrates the 20th edition of the European Night of Museums, where over 3000 museums across France and Europe open their doors to the public for free for one evening. 

Visitors of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to see cultural establishments from a fresh perspective, with museums offering new routes, guided tours, outdoor entertainment, and live performances. 

I might be biased as I don’t live far from this city but, Bordeaux seriously has museums to rival Paris, especially the Cité du Vin.

📆 Date: 18 May 2024

📍Location: Around France

🌐 Details: Visit the official website

No 9 Coutellia

This event makes me smile as it’s so French. It’s all about celebrating knives in the knife capital of France, Thier. It’s a celebration of the artistry, craftsmanship, and tradition of knife-making in this little town known for its centuries-old cutlery industry. Attendees have the opportunity to meet over 200 knife-makers, artisans, and manufacturers showcasing a wide array of knives, from traditional pocket knives to artistic and custom-made pieces. The event features demonstrations, workshops, and exhibitions, allowing visitors to see master craftsmen at work, honing their blades and crafting handles from various materials.

📆 Date: 18 – 19 May 2024

📍Location: Thier

🌐 Details: Visit the festival website

No 10 Étonnants Voyageurs

This festival is right up my street as it celebrates literature and film, with a particular focus on travel, adventure, and discovery. I love the fact it brings together writers, filmmakers, poets, and artists from around the world to share their work, experiences, and passion for exploring the unknown. The festival’s name translates to “Amazing Travelers,” which, I like to think, includes me.

The event includes book readings, film screenings, panel discussions, and workshops, offering insights into the creative processes behind captivating narratives and documentaries.

The festival also features a book fair, where publishers display a wide range of works, from travelogues and novels to essays and graphic novels, catering to the diverse interests of attendees. It’s an opportunity for visitors to meet their favourite authors, discover new ones, and engage in discussions about the power of storytelling to connect people and places.

📆 Date: 18 – 20 May 2024

📍Location: Saint-Malo

🌐 Details: Visit the festival website

No 11 Monaco Grand Prix

The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most prestigious automobile races in the world and a highlight of the Formula One calendar. 

The track is demanding and has tight corners, elevation changes, and a tunnel, making it one of the most challenging races for drivers in the Formula One World Championship. The narrow streets make overtaking particularly difficult, placing a premium on qualifying performance and strategic planning.

The race attracts celebrities, royalty, and racing enthusiasts from around the world, all drawn to the spectacle and the stunning backdrop of the French Riviera. The harbour is filled with yachts, and it’s a regular who’s who of the rich and famous.

📆 Date: 24 – 26 May 2024

📍Location: Monaco

🌐 Details: Visit the event website

No 12 Festival des Roses

What could be better than two days celebrating the beauty of the rose? The Rose Festival in Chédigny, a picturesque village in the Loire Valley, is dedicated to the beauty and variety of roses, with the entire village participating in the festivities.

Chédigny, recognised as a “Jardin Remarquable” (Remarkable Garden) for its gorgeous floral displays, transforming into a haven of fragrance and colour during the festival. You can do guided tours of the village’s gardens, workshops on rose care and gardening, and stalls selling rose-related products, from plants and seeds to artisanal goods. 

📆 Date: 25-26 May 2024

📍Location: Chédigny

🌐 Details: Visit the festival website

No 13 Les Fêtes Johanniques

Joan of Arc is a name most people know. She was burnt at the stake in Rouen but spent a lot of time in Reims, and The Joan of Arc Festival is a commemoration of Joan of Arc’s historic journey and the coronation of Charles VII, which marked a turning point in the Hundred Years’ War. It’s on my list of things to do this year as I’m fascinated by her story after visiting the museum dedicated to her in Rouen.

The festival features medieval markets and animations at key historical sites, including the Saint-Remi Basilica and the Notre-Dame Cathedral.

The city transformed with medieval encampments, parades, and reenactments, creating an immersive experience that honours Joan of Arc’s legacy and her connection to Reims.

One of the highlights of the festival is the reenactment of the coronation procession, where actors in period costumes recreate the iconic moment, accompanied by knights, horses, and flag bearers. There are also workshops, exhibitions, and lectures exploring various aspects of medieval life, from cuisine and crafts to warfare and daily routines. And no doubt, there’ll be some champagne on offer as Reims is home to some amazing champagne houses.

📆 Date: 25-26 May 2024

📍Location: Reims

🌐 Details: Visit the festival website

Public Holidays in France in May 2024

It’s also the month where you’ll find more public holidays than any other month of the year. Often, everything stops on these days and if the shops do open it will be Sunday hours, which usually means everything is closed by 12.30 pm.

1. Labour Day / May Day (Fête du Travail): Celebrated on Wednesday, May 1, this holiday is dedicated to the achievements of the labour movement and is a day off for most workers across the country​
2. WWII Victory Day (Fête de la Victoire): Observed on Wednesday, May 8, this day marks the anniversary of the formal acceptance by the Allies of Nazi Germany’s unconditional surrender in 1945. It is a moment of national remembrance and honour for those who fought and died​
3. Ascension Day (Jour de l’Ascension): Falling on Thursday, May 9, this Christian holiday commemorates the ascension of Jesus into heaven 39 days after Easter Sunday. It’s a public holiday in France, and many businesses and schools are closed​
4. Whit Monday (Lundi de Pentecôte): Celebrated on Monday, May 20, this Christian holiday commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and other followers of Jesus Christ. It marks the conclusion of the Easter season and is a public holiday in France, with various events and religious services taking place​

FAQS: Spending May in France

Final thoughts: Visiting France in May

Springtime in France is wonderful and May is bang smack in the middle of Spring. I’ve only scratched the surface of places to visit at this time. 

I purposely stayed away from the more popular places like Paris, Toulouse and the Palace of Versailles to give you something a little bit different.