Weather in France in March

 The weather in France in March shifts toward spring, with warming days and lingering chill. In the Alps and Pyrenees, ski season continues, while cities like Paris, Lyon, and Bordeaux start to feel more active after the winter lull. Vineyards and markets begin to wake up, and you’ll see early blossoms in parks and along country roads. Rain is still common, so it’s smart to plan a mix of indoor museums and outdoor walks. It’s a great time to visit if you want decent weather without big crowds or high prices.

France in March at a glance

• Low temperature range of 38°F to 45°F (3°C to 7°C); high range of 50°F to 58°F (10°C to 15°C).
• Expect a mix of chilly and milder weather, with some rain showers.
• Mountain regions see the last ski-season snow.
• Tourist crowds are still relatively low, which makes March less expensive than the upcoming shoulder season.

What is the weather like in France in March?

 The weather in France in March leans toward early spring, with more sun and lighter rain. Rain totals hover around 60 to 70mm across 12 to 14 days.

The Alps still see snow at higher elevations, so skiing is still an option if you’re heading up. In the cities and wine regions, you’ll notice budding trees, flower markets, and fewer tourists than in April or May. Paris and Lyon are ideal for museum visits and café walks without big crowds.

The Riviera warms up a bit, but it’s still too chilly for swimming. The weather in France in March makes it a solid time to travel if you’re looking to mix cultural visits with a few countryside stops, all without summer’s chaos. It's a great time to plan your France itinerary.
 

Average daily temperatures in March

France starts shaking off winter in March, but the weather still varies a lot by region. Paris sees highs around 54°F (12°C) and lows near 39°F (4°C). Down in Nice on the Mediterranean, it's a bit warmer with highs of 59°F (15°C) and lows of 46°F (8°C).

Alpine towns like Chamonix are still in winter mode with daytime temperatures around 46°F (8°C) and nighttime lows dropping to 28°F (–2°C). Rain comes and goes, so packing layers and a rain jacket is a good idea. Daytime is great for strolling, but evenings can be cold, especially in the north. Sea temperatures are chilly—about 55°F (13°C) in the south and 50°F (10°C) along the Atlantic. March is early spring here, with flowers starting to bloom and cafés reopening as the days stretch toward 12 hours of daylight.

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Is March a good time to visit France?

March is a shoulder season in France, and that usually means good deals and fewer crowds. You’ll get early spring blooms in southern regions like Provence and the Loire Valley, while the ski resorts in the Alps still have snow if you’re after a late-season trip. Cities like 
Paris is quieter than in summer, and major sights have shorter lines. Restaurant Week also often lands in March, so you can try high-end dining at more affordable prices. Just pack layers; it can be rainy, especially up north.  For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to France. 

• Fewer crowds at major attractions
• Early spring blooms in southern regions
• Good late-season skiing opportunities
• Restaurant week deals in major cities
• Mixed weather requires layered clothing
   

What about the crowds and cost?

Sitting in a shoulder season for tourism, visiting France in March means major attractions in cities and towns are pretty quiet.

As the same time, ski resorts start to see fewer visitors by mid-March as the season winds down.

In line with moderate visitor numbers, you can also expect more moderate travel costs for flights, accommodation, and tours. In addition, ski resorts may offer discounted rates toward the end of the month. If you're still deciding, see our guide to the best time to visit France. 

Where to go to France in March

France in March offers variety. The Alps still have snow, but the lowlands begin to warm up.  Cities like Paris shake off winter with spring flowers and fewer tourists. Coastal towns are calmer, but not sleepy. Wine regions are gearing up for the season ahead. It’s a good time to explore without the rush—and without paying peak prices. Here are some of the best places to visit in France. 

Paris

Paris feels like it’s waking up. Terraces reopen, yards bloom, and people start sitting outside again. Big museums are still busy, but manageable. Spring fashion hits the streets, especially during Paris Fashion Week. Walks along the Seine feel lighter, and you can finally picnic again if the sun’s out. This is a great time for galleries, bookstores, and long afternoons at cafés with fewer crowds. See our pick for the best things to do in Paris.

French Riviera (Nice and Cannes)

The Riviera in March feels local. Mimosa trees bloom bright yellow, and the sea still has its deep blue shine. Nice has plenty going on, from markets to museums, and the coastal paths are great for hiking in cooler air. Towns like Èze and Saint-Paul-de-Vence offer great views and fewer visitors. You’ll need a jacket in the mornings, but by midday, the weather’s great for wandering.

Loire Valley

The Loire Valley feels like a storybook just starting to open. Vineyards are being pruned, yards are waking up, and the châteaux are quiet and majestic. March is a good time to visit places like Chenonceau or Chambord without busloads of tourists. You can bike between villages, eat well, and watch the landscape shift toward spring. Restaurants start adding seasonal ingredients like asparagus to their menus, and the whole region feels like it’s preparing for something beautiful. 

What to do in France in March

France in March feels like a country waking up. Ski season is winding down in the Alps, while the south starts seeing sun on café terraces. Markets return, yards bloom, and cities come back to life after winter. It’s a good time to explore without the summer rush. Here are some of the best things to do in France.

Ski the French Alps

High-altitude resorts still have snow, but the days are longer and the slopes less crowded. It’s a good month for off-piste skiing or trying longer runs in places like Chamonix or Val d’Isère. Lunch on a sun terrace is a highlight, and many resorts throw end-of-season parties with live music and food stalls. 

Explore Provence markets

In towns like Arles and Aix-en-Provence, March means the return of flower stalls, early asparagus, and citrus fruits. Markets are lively but not overwhelming, and you can actually chat with producers. Olive oil tastings and antique browsing feel more relaxed than in summer. It’s a great time to slow down and enjoy everyday French life. See our pick of the best Provence lavender fields. 

Visit Monet’s Yards in Giverny

The famous water lilies aren’t in bloom yet, but that’s not the point in March. You get to see the yards being planted and prepared, following Monet’s original layouts. Early flowers like daffodils and crocuses are out, and the artist’s house is open without the crowds. It’s a quiet, behind-the-scenes look at one of the most photographed yards in the world. For more advice, see our France travel tips.
 

Planning your itinerary

Our France itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as a starting point — perfect for planning, but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.

• France itinerary 7 days: Spend a week exploring France’s highlights. Great for first-timers who want a mix of history, art, and iconic sights.
• France itinerary 10 days: Ten days lets you dive deeper, adding Provence’s lavender fields and the sun-soaked French Riviera to your trip.
• France itinerary: 7 days in south of France: This is the itinerary for you if you want to spend a week under the Mediterranean sun, with wine and scenery.
• France Itinerary: Experience the Liberation Route: Follow the path of WWII history along France’s Liberation Route. A meaningful journey for history buffs, combining museums, memorials, and poignant landmarks.