Still winter for most of the country with short daylight hours and occasional rain or snow inland. It's a low-crowd month except at ski resorts in the Alps and Pyrenees.
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Average temperature across France in February.
Île‑de‑France, Normandy
Late winter thaws begin to show in February: sheltered courtyards in Île‑de‑France can feel pleasantly crisp on sunny days while coastal winds keep Normandy noticeably cooler. Snow is still possible but uncommon for long; this is a good time for indoor culture-musées and château interiors-without high-season visitors. Pack layers and a windproof jacket if you’re planning to explore Bayeux or the cliffs at Étretat.
Bretagne, Saint‑Malo, Brest, La Rochelle
February keeps that maritime chill and bluster: mornings can be foggy in estuaries while afternoons brighten with cold sun behind the clouds. Ferry crossings to islands like Île de Bréhat or Île d’Oléron may be rough on westerly gales, so check schedules. This is quiet season for coastal hotels and a good time to enjoy hearty local cuisine indoors.
Tours, Amboise, Saumur, Angers
Fog and the first hints of green define February: low sun, crisp air and the odd frosty morning around Saumur and Chinon. Visitor numbers are low, which is great for château interiors and museums, though some formal gardens remain closed for pruning. Pack thermal layers and waterproof footwear for muddy riverside paths and vineyard walks.
Bordeaux, Biarritz, Dordogne, Arcachon
February continues cool and often wet; Périgord’s truffle season is on and markets in Sarlat are a draw for food lovers despite the chill. Surf at Biarritz can be excellent in winter swells, though conditions are rough and water is cold. Expect quieter towns and good availability in guesthouses-bring thermal layers for nights in stone cottages.
Chamonix, Grenoble, Annecy, Val d’Isère
February keeps the snow and the social buzz of ski season-weekends are busy and school holiday periods see full slopes and higher prices. Snow quality at altitude is usually excellent, though lower resorts may see variability. Book lessons and guiding in advance, and bring layered technical clothing for full days outdoors.
Marseille, Avignon, Aix‑en‑Provence, Nice, Cannes
February keeps that Mediterranean coolness with frequent clear days and brisk mistral episodes, particularly through the Rhône corridor and across the Aix plain. Carnival season in Nice brings crowds during parade days despite moderate temperatures-bring a warm outer layer for seaside stands. Wildflowers start in sheltered garrigue and orchard blossom can begin in late month.
Various towns hold carnival events; Nice and other coastal towns have parades and festivities in February (dates vary by year).
See how February compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.