Facts checked against live data · 12 Sept 2026

Middling

France in May: Weather, Crowds & What's On

What May is actually like in France — average highs and lows, how much rain to expect, public holidays that fill trains and hotels, and verified places to go.

Average high
20°C
Average low
9°C
Rainfall
86mm

Where this month sits in the year

The 5th warmest month of France's year. The 3rd wettest month, at 10% of the year's rain.

Public holidays in May

Domestic travel peaks around these dates — book earlier and expect busier sights.

  • May 1 Fête du Travail · Labour Day
  • May 8 Victoire 1945 · Victory in Europe Day
  • May 14 Ascension · Ascension Day
  • May 25 Lundi de Pentecôte · Whit Monday

What's closed on your dates →

On in May

  • Cannes Film Festival

Planning a trip this month?

France travel guides → All countries →

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Climate figures are 10-year averages for Lyon, from NASA POWER; holidays from public calendars. Updated monthly.

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