France In March: Weather, Things to See and Travel Tips

France in March may still be cold, but it is also the time when winter eases into spring.

More hotels, museums, and markets start to open, but the rates are still cheaper.

It is still low season and you don’t have to beat the crowds just yet, so you get to truly experience every place you visit.

Check out open-air markets, stroll through medieval towns, or look for cherry blossoms in parks or river banks.

Watch as the seasons change in this scenic country, and make the most of your trip with useful weather info, suggested things to do, and some travel advice.

France In March: Weather, Things to See and Travel Tips

What is the weather like in France in March?

Temperature in France in March

In March, the average temperature in France is 5 °C to 14 °C.

Rain in France in March

France usually gets around 45 mm of rainfall over a period of 12 days in March.

Wind in France in March

The average wind speed in France in March is 10.5 to 10.7 miles per hour.

Sun in France in March

France enjoys around 11 to 12 hours of daylight during March. Sunrise is earlier, from 6:30 to 7:30 in the morning, while sunset is at 6:30 to 8 in the evening.

What to pack in France in March

Spring is one of the two rainiest seasons in France. During this season, the country gets an average of 9 days of rainy weather for the month. Most days are generally warm and the average temperature is about 60°F to 70°F (16°C to 21°C).

A foldable umbrella or lightweight raincoat is a must for wet days. Spring is a lovely time to explore castles, national parks, and visit the countryside. Be sure to pack clothes that are stylish as well as able to protect you from the elements, like this cool jacket and a cute cardigan. They are versatile enough to go with jeans and shirt combo or over a pretty dress. Wear a hat to accessorize and cover your hair. Complete your everyday springtime outfit with sturdy yet comfortable walking shoes that can be worn with anything.

These are the things that are non-negotiables when packing for a trip to any destination.

Keep things organized by putting each type in color-coded luggage organizers. Putting them in these separate, lightweight packing cubes or pouches make it easier for you to find or keep them in place.
Toiletry Kit – Bring only those that you won’t most likely find in drugstores or malls in France. If your skin is adaptable and not too sensitive, bring products that have multipurpose such as moisturizing facial wash, or shampoo and conditioner bars. Otherwise, travel toiletry kit essentials include deodorant, makeup, toothpaste, toothbrush, travel size shampoo, conditioner, body soap, razor/grooming kit, and towel.

Gadgets – Apart from the usual cellphone, camera, tablet, and laptop, bring items that will ensure these will work properly in France. A must is a small power bank to make sure you can recharge your devices even on the road. You can get it here.

USB cables and a universal adapter are also a must as you don’t know if your devices will have the correct type of plugs. You can get it here.

Other Important items – A first aid/emergency kit is a must and should contain the following: pain and fever medication, antidiarrheal medication, softening and soothing lozenges, anti-mosquito cream/gel and medicines for carsickness or seasickness.

Water in France is generally potable so instead of buying bottled water, you can bring your own bottle instead and just refill it. This reusable water bottle is also collapsible one so you can put it in your bag easily.

There’s always a chance of rain in France so a foldable umbrella or lightweight raincoat is a must.

Bags and Luggage – A travel backpack should accommodate all your essentials plus the clothes that are good for about ten to fifteen days of travel. While in France, you also need a day bag that you can use when visiting attractions or going on day trips.

Yes, it is a must to literally travel in style while in France. You do not have to look as if you’re about to step into the runway, but you can’t look too drab either.  To be sure, just be sure to pack tailored or at least well-fitting clothes.

Bring a lot of blacks and neutrals as they’re always fashionable in France.

When traveling to the countryside, just opt for more relaxed and practical clothing items such as jeans, shirts, and a light jacket.

Women should bring not just items that are suitable for daily outings but for fancier occasions as well. Their packing list should consist of a bra, underpants, skirt/dress, shorts, jeans or casual pants, jacket or cardigan, and shirts (long-sleeved, short-sleeved, casual, and dressy). Women should also bring a hat (that can be easily packed like a bucket hat) scarves, socks, sneakers, and dressy flats.

Men should also consider France’s varied climate as well as dressing up for fancier occasions. Clothing items that should go into their France packing list are undershirt/T-shirts, briefs or boxer shorts, shirts (long-sleeved, short-sleeved, casual, and dressy), dress slacks, jeans, or casual pants and jacket, blazer, or cardigan. Sweater and shorts are also necessities as well as a hat, walking shoes, dress shoes, and sneakers or sandals.

You can also check this France packing list for all seasons. 

Things To Do In France In March

1. Have some lollies in Flavigny-sur-Ozerain

If you have seen the film Chocolat, you most likely have been intrigued by the picturesque setting.

The town in the film is called Flavigny-sur-Ozerain, a village by the Burgundy Canal and regarded as among the most beautiful places in the region.

Unlike in the film, Flavigny-sur-Ozerain is not really known for its chocolate industry but for aniseed lollies. These sweet treats are made in a Benedictine abbey, using a 16th-century recipe.

There are a variety of lollies available now, and the abbey and the lolly production area are open to visitors.

Another must-see in Flavigny is the well-loved parish church of Saint-Genest.

A fascinating place to visit, the church has a gallery that visitors can climb up for an interesting perspective of the church interiors.

This structure has been around for 900 years, and definitely a must-visit in France in March.

2. Go on a foodie tour in Vieille Ville, Nice

Explore a different side of Nice by going on a one-of-a-kind foodie tour that takes you through its fascinating gastronomic history.

Hands down one of the best things to do in France in March, the foodie tour lasts for an entire day.

It involves a walking tour and numerous tasting and sampling sessions.

Truly a feast for the senses, the tour is led by an expert guide that introduces you to the history and flavors of Nice. A good part of the tour is spent in its colorful old town, Vieille Ville.

Here, you will meet purveyors and market vendors who will offer you sweet and savory treats, along with impromptu history lessons.

Apart from all the food, this is also a fun opportunity to experience being a local.

3. Explore the history and culture of Noyers-sur-Serein

If you’re planning to visit France in March, then make sure you visit one of the most stunning places in the north-central part of the country.

Like most medieval French towns, Noyers has winding cobblestone lanes, pretty half-timbered houses, and ancient ramparts.

Located by the Serein River, Noyers used to be a trade hub, as evidenced by the Place du Marché-au-Blé (Corn Market) and the Place du Grenier-à-Sel (Salt Storehouse).  The town also takes pride in its many shops selling artisan items as well as unique.

Regional products Art lovers, meanwhile, will enjoy Musée des Arts Naïfs et Populaires (Museum of Naïve and Popular Arts), with its impressive collection of 19th-century pieces.

4. Sip some Saint-Émilion wine

March is early spring in France and an ideal time to see and explore the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region in the Southwest and the Bordeaux wine country.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Saint-Émilion is a medieval city located at the juncture of Bordeaux, Saintonge, and Périgord.

Situated in the pilgrimage route, many churches and monasteries were built in and around the area, with some dating back to the 11th century.

Stroll through its cobblestone streets, and admire the impressive architecture and historic monuments.

Visit the old city gates, the underground church, the ancient Roman keep, and the historic Petite and Grand Fontaines.

Saint-Émilion is also known for its namesake wine blend, so make sure you enjoy a glass or bring home a bottle.

The unique wine is an interesting blend of different grape varieties, usually the Cabernet Franc,  Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot.

5. Visit Sarlat-la-Canéda

Located in the Dordogne region is another medieval town that’s one of the most attractive places to visit in France in March.

The early spring atmosphere casts a vibrant glow on its bustling squares and sandstone buildings.

Wander through the narrow alleyways and marvel at structures that reflect Sarlat-la-Canéda’s medieval and renaissance influences.

This picture-perfect small town is virtually car-free, the kind of place that’s best explored on foot.

Venture into the countryside and you’ll be treated to the stunning 900-year old Château de Beynac or the dramatic Château de  Castelnaud.

6. Hunt for Cherry Blossoms in  Sceaux

Being in France in March isn’t complete if you don’t enjoy the fact that it’s early spring. What better way to savor this colorful season than watching put for cherry blossoms?

If you’re in Paris, it is just several kilometers away and makes for a lovely day trip.

Stroll around town and take in the spring colors, seen in its parks, arboretum, and promenade.

Head towards the Château de Sceaux’s grounds, straight to the cherry blossom orchard, and surround yourself in the festive colors.

If you’ve been spending days in Paris, a visit here is a welcome respite.

7. Explore Eguisheim

Eguisheim may not be the easiest place to reach using public transport, but it is a worthy day trip from Strasbourg. You first need to go to Colmar, and from there take a bus to the neighboring village of Wettolsheim.

From there, you can walk to Eguisheim. It is much better to go here as part of a guided tour of the Alsace Region to make the most of your time.

Still, it is a fantastic place to visit,  with its half-timbered houses circling out from the Château Saint-Léon right in the heart of the village. The 13th-century castle is now a church, but you can still see the remains of the structure that once stood there.

Wander through the narrow streets and feel like you’re journeying through a fairy tale. Aside from the half-timbered houses, vineyards are also in abundance in Eguisheim.

Along the hills, you’ll also find the Château du Hohlandsbourg or the ruins of Husseren-les-Château­x.

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Check out these things to do in Eguisheim, France.

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8. Watch an opera in Palais Garnier

Said to be an ode to Parisian architecture, the enchanting Palais Garnier is an important part of Paris’ ballet and classical music scene.

Also called the Opera Garnier Paris or simply the Paris Opera, this cultural jewel has a history that’s as fascinating as the productions within its walls.

Home to the Paris Ballet, the Palais Garnier is regarded as one of the grandest and most prestigious opera houses in the world. And you must include it on your France bucket list. 

Buy your ticket online here.

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Check out our guide for Palais Garnier for first-time visitors. 

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9. Stay in a Paris hotel with the perfect view of the Eiffel Tower

Planning to stay in Paris and want to have the perfect view? Paris, France is regarded as one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world.

It is said that there’s beauty wherever you look in Paris – from gardens to stylish streets; historic buildings and iconic landmarks.

The French capital is often synonymous with the majestic Eiffel Tower, which is a definite must for any Paris itinerary.

This iconic landmark is seen in most parts of the city, but how about a view of the Eiffel Tower from your hotel window or balcony?

Watch as the tower is lit up in the evening, or have coffee as you gaze at it in the morning. While in Paris, stay in one of these hotels that offer the best view of the Eiffel Tower.

10. Visit Dijon

Known as the ‘City of the Dukes’,  Dijon in France is recognized globally for its mustard.

This is also the capital city of the historic region of Burgundy, where you’ll come across vineyards along with impressive old buildings and monuments.

More than the spice, Dijon’s culinary scene is a must experience.

Stroll along the cobblestone streets of its historic center. Explore not just the stunning structures but also the quaint shops that you’ll find in between.

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Check out these things to do in Dijon, France.

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Travel Tips for France in March

1. March may be the start of spring in France but it is still cold in most parts of the country.

Don’t leave your jackets and scarves just yet, as they’ll come in handy while traveling across France and its varied weather conditions.

Be sure to bring a sturdy foldable umbrella or raincoat as well, as there’s always a chance of rain.

2. Bring clothes that you can layer, such as leggings, long-sleeved shirts, cardigans, and vests. They are perfect when traveling to France in March, as the weather is unpredictable.

Layering allows you to easily adjust to the country’s varying climate without having to bring lots of bulky jackets or coats to warm up.

3. March is a great time to visit France because the weather isn’t that freezing cold anymore as the season eases into spring.

Airfare and accommodation rates ate still inexpensive so book your trip early.

Attractions such as castles, galleries, and museums are also not that crowded so make the most of your visit. Don’t hurry and enjoy the sights as much as you can.

4. As the season eases into spring,   open-air markets slowly fill old buildings, parks, and town squares, especially during weekends.

Don’t miss the chance to pick some fresh produce like fruits or vegetables that you can easily turn into tasty desserts or snacks. Stock up on local delicacies like preserves, cheese, chocolates, bread, and pastries.

Pack them in a cute basket and enjoy a picnic by a river, canal or choose a spot in a garden park.

5. See more of any French town or city and from a different perspective by hopping on a boat tour or renting a bike.

Explore parks, old neighborhoods, or follow the canal river routes as you take in unique views of a certain local from the water or on a bike.

This is also a relaxing activity that allows you to experience more like a visitor.