Winter In France…. Fun Vacation Ideas In November
Where To Go, What To Do, Weather Info
Winter in France is generally cold – wherever you are; which might not sound appealing at first. But think again!
November is officially the ‘off-season’…when you can find some of the cheapest airfare deals around, and prices for accommodation will often be at reduced rates, too. So this is the time for cheap vacation ideas.
And most overseas visitors prefer to travel to France in spring and summer…which means France is less crowded in general; the lines aren’t as long when visiting attractions and museums.
Winter In France: What’s Happening When
France definitely doesn’t hibernate for the winter! This time of year will appeal to food and wine lovers, especially.
On the third thursday of November, the first batch of Beaujolais Nouveau is released with great fanfare, not just in the Beaujolais region but around the country. Beaujolais is a great region to visit in November because of all the beaujolais wine festivals, where you can join in wine and gourmet food tastings, street celebrations, and generally having fun!
One of the biggest festivals is held in Beaujeu, the historic capital of Beaujolais; Lyon also has fireworks and music; even the restaurants and bistros of Paris celebrate.
Foodies might like to check out the truffle market held in the medieval town of Noyers-sur-Serein (check dates to confirm) where you can sample wine and gourmet food (including foie gras!) Noyers is in Burgundy. (http://www.noyers-sur-serein.com/)
Bordeaux and Southwest France are also great places to visit in November and have things going on – such as the film festival in Sarlat (http://www.sarlat.fr/photoaccueil.asp) or wine-tasting.
So…winter in France can be lots of fun! Just make sure you pack for cold weather – winter coat, sturdy walking boots (preferably waterproof in case it’s drizzly) and plenty of layers.
Here are some approximate high/low average temperatures for the weather in France, in some of the major cities:
Weather In France In November
| City | Average Low C°/F° | Average High C°/F° |
| Alsace | 3/37 | 8/47 |
| Bordeaux | 6/43 | 14/56 |
| Lyon | 4/39 | 10/50 |
| Marseille | 7/45 | 15/59 |
| Paris | 6/43 | 10/51 |
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