Weather in France in February

Though a little milder than January, the weather in February in France is cold, with rain, frost and snow in many regions. As a result, it’s a month that attracts tonnes of winter sports enthusiasts. Sitting in a low season for tourism (apart from in ski resorts), February is also a good time to visit France for cheaper culture-oriented vacations. Oh, and this being the month of love, February is a wonderful time to head to Paris — one of the most romantic places in the world. So, read on for detail on the weather in France in February.

France in February at a glance

• Low temperature range 30°F to 38°F (-1°C to 3°C); high 40°F to 50°F (4°C to 10°C).
• Expect a mix of cold, rainy, and snowy weather, depending on where you travel.
• Sitting in low season, February is quieter and cheaper, except in popular ski resorts.
• Ideal for winter sports, and a cost-effective time for culture-oriented vacations.

What is the weather like in France in February?

Though usually less rainy than the November-December peak-precipitation period, the chilly month of February remains relatively wet in many areas of France.

For example, Paris and Northern France see around 1.8 to 2.5 inches (45 to 65 mm) of rain through the month, with Southern France (Provence, Côte d'Azur) experiencing around 1.6 to 2.4 inches (40 to 60 mm).

Meanwhile, the driest months, July and August, see an average of 0.5 to 1.5 inches (12 mm to 40 mm).

February is also a prime month for snow in France, and is considered by many to be the best time to enjoy winter sports in the French Alps, Pyrenees and Vosges Mountains. 

While cold temperatures maintain the snowpack, an increase in sunny days makes experiences on the slopes even more enjoyable.

Keen to kickstart your France vacation? Talk to our local experts to start curating your dream trip.

Average daily temperatures in February

The weather in France in February sees average lows ranging from 30°F to 38°F (-1°C to 3°C), and average highs ranging from 40°F to 50°F (4°C to 10°C), which is a little warmer than January.

For context, during summer, the average low temperature range sits around 60°F to 68°F (15°C to 20°C), with an average high range of 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 30°C).

February’s regional temperature variations are as follows:

Paris and Northern France

• Highs: 40°F to 45°F (4°C to 7°C)
• Lows: 32°F to 36°F (0°C to 2°C)

If you are interested in exploring the north of France in depth use our Northern France itinerary.

Southern France (Provence, Côte d'Azur)

• Highs: 50°F to 55°F (10°C to 13°C)
• Lows: 40°F to 45°F (4°C to 7°C)

Western France (Bordeaux, Loire Valley)

• Highs: 45°F to 50°F (7°C to 10°C)
• Lows: 37°F to 41°F (3°C to 5°C)

Eastern France (Lyon, Alsace)

• Highs: 35°F to 40°F (2°C to 5°C)
• Lows: 28°F to 32°F (-2°C to 0°C)

French Alps and Pyrenees

• Highs: 25°F to 35°F (-4°C to 1°C)
• Lows: 15°F to 25°F (-9°C to -4°C)

Want an overview of the weather in France around the year? Read up on the best time to visit France.

Is February a good time to visit France?

Though cold, with a distinct chance of rain, February can be a great time to visit France if you enjoy winter sports, or like the sound of enjoying some of the best things to see and do in France in less-crowded conditions.

Along with January, February is the best time to visit France for winter sports. Both months see more consistent and reliable snow cover than December, with the weather in France in February also heralding more sunshine.

Like the sound of that? Read up on where to go skiing in France.

In addition, February plays host to some wonderful festivals and events — more on them below.

In summary, February is a great time to visit France if you’re into winter sports, or are seeking a quieter — and potentially cheaper — vacation in French towns and cities, with notable festivals and events offering extra reasons to visit. 

Not fixed on France? Browse more suggestions for the best places to travel in February, and discover the world’s most beautiful winter destinations.

Want something warmer? Discover divine winter sun destinations.

What about the crowds and cost?

February is part of the low tourist season in most regions of France, meaning you can expect smaller crowds at popular attractions and museums. 

However, note that ski resorts in the Alps and Pyrenees are very busy during this month, especially around mid-February when many European countries have school holidays.

With the exception of ski resorts, which will have higher prices, travel costs in February are generally lower than in the summer. 

In short, you stand a good chance of bagging decent deals on flights, hotels, and tours in major cities. 

On a budget? Discover great things to do in Paris for FREE!

Festivals and events in France in February

Read on to find out about noteworthy February festivals and events in France.

Carnaval de Nice

One of Europe’s most famous carnivals — and also one of the most esteemed in the world — Nice's Carnival features elaborate parades, flower battles, costumes, music, and dancing for two weeks from mid-February 

Carnaval de Dunkerque 

Held in Dunkirk, Northern France, from late January to March, Carnaval de Dunkerque is famed for its lively, quirky vibe. Expect street parades, music, and costumed revellers.

Valentine’s Day events

Though Paris is an impossibly romantic destination around the year, Valentine’s Day offers couples stacks of extra reasons to visit one of the most romantic places in the world, especially foodies, with restaurants serving delectable special menus.

Menton Lemon Festival

Held annually in Menton on the Côte d’Azur across the second half of February and into early March, the zesty Fête du Citron sees parades, floats and intricate displays made entirely of fruit showcase the diversity of juicy citrus specimens.

Planning a trip to France? Our 7-day Southern France itinerary might be just what you’re looking for.

Ready for your dream trip to France?

Before booking you dream trip to France, browse our France itineraries for inspiration. Using our tailor-made trip platform means you’ll get to forgo the hassle of planning. 

Here are a few sample itineraries:

• Active Walking Tour from Paris to Southern France: this active itinerary will see you explore the length of France. After spending a few days in Paris, your southbound journey will see you traverse scenic hills, mountains and villages en route to Uzés and Avignon, with opportunities to enjoy adventure activities and cultural experiences long the way.
• A Taste of Eastern France: kicking off in Lyon, this 4-day walking itinerary combines fine food and fresh-air experiences in immersive style. After enjoying delicious food tours in Lyon, you’ll embark on a scenic walk through the beautiful Beaujolais region, with pretty much every day rounded off with a wine-tasting experience.
• Scenic Southern France: this spectacular tour starts in the coastal city of Marseille. After taking a walking tour of the city, you’ll uncover captivating Cassis by bike before venturing to the Alpilles to explore Provence, taking in Les Baux and St Remy, ending your trip in Avignon.

Inspired? Contact our local experts to start curating your own dream trip to France.