Why August Might Just Be the Perfect Time to Experience France?

Thinking of Travelling to France in August? Here’s What You Need to Know…

It is well known that much of France takes their holidays in August. In fact, almost 70% of France takes its main vacation in July or August. Paris in particular empties out of its locals, with 20% of Parisians heading south to warmer climates, while the southern French head north for cooler temperatures. It’s not that the French have disappeared, rather that about a third of them head abroad whilst the rest go native, and disperse into the countryside of France.

Summer is a prime time to meet and enjoy the company of the French as our  barges meander through that countryside on the canals of France. During this month, whilst you cycle along the canal towpaths you are very likely to be greeted with a ‘Bonjour’ as a family walks or cycles by. Canalside cafes will be all about locals, French visitors and those from further away mingling and enjoying the fresh air and peaceful tranquillity. Despite this, the French countryside is never very busy due to its huge area, France being twice the size of the UK or Colorado.

Why Do the French Holiday in August?

Harking back in history, there was a time when the majority of people worked in factories and for businesses where it made more sense for the whole business to shut as it needed most of its workforce in place to function. So the majority had to take the month of August off due to economic necessity. These days, with business types more diversified, let alone working from home, it’s no longer a forced time off, rather a tradition.

Of course, August isn’t the ideal vacation time for everyone. For the majority of those working in the service and tourism industries, such as restaurants and visitor attractions, they don’t take their holidays in August. They tend to take theirs in September, and/or during the height of winter. 

Taking a month off is also now a cultural statement, embodying the work-life balance lifestyle. But it is not just about heading to the beach, rather it is a time to step away from the stress of work, reconnect and enjoy time with family and friends, and to simply relax and enjoy oneself. France in August is all about relaxing.

August in France: A Time for Family, Tradition and Taking It Slow

If we add in that five weeks (or more) holiday allotment is a given, then it becomes easier to see why it is possible as well as traditional to take time off at this time. Additionally, kids are out of school from the second week of July, for 8 weeks, so that makes August very much geared towards families.

Many French residents don’t take the entire month. For quite a few it is more like 2 or 3 weeks, though some do take up to four weeks. And these are staggered, usually from 14th July to 14th August or 1st August to 1st September, so the extra countryside visitors are spread out over a period of some seven weeks.

What’s the Weather Like in France in August?

August is the best time to visit France if you enjoy hot dry weather, or cooler nights contrasted by warm days. You can actually choose your destination based on your preferences. Cooler nights and warmer days call for travels to Alsace / Lorraine and Burgundy.

In the south of France, weather is balmy throughout the summer where it rarely, if ever, rains and the skies are always blue. The average high temperature in the south of France is around 29°C, or mid to upper 80s, whilst the north is more temperate at 24°C, or mid-70°F.

The trick is to consider your day and pace yourself. Activities in the morning, when it is cooler, and relaxation and rest in the afternoon at the heats zenith. Be sure to stay hydrated with lots of water and cold drinks throughout the day. Sit down and take the time to enjoy France’s delicious food and good conversation.

August: France’s Best-Kept Secret for Slowing Down and Living Well

So August really is the best time to take a holiday in France. The typical French August migration serves as a reminder that sometimes the greatest way to appreciate life is to slow down and savour each moment. While the cities are empty, the countryside is filled with relaxation and laughter.

The French have mastered the art of living well, and August is their time to celebrate it, whether it is a leisurely supper with loved ones or a stroll through a sun-drenched vineyard. Who needs an excuse to relax, nap, enjoy good food and even longer lunches, take time with family, swim, cycle, walk? All of which you can do on our Barges.

Discover the Peaceful Charm of France in August on a Hotel Barge

You will see more people out and about in rural France in August, but this is where being on a hotel barge is ultimate perfection. Your barge gently moves along, taking your home away from home to different moorings and vistas. Canals are peaceful places, and although the paths alongside become more popular, they are never what we would think of as busy. All our excursions are private, pre-planned, skipping the queues, and often are exclusive entry only to European Waterways guests. Add to this the colours of the ripening grain and the start of the grape harvest in the vineyards and you have the perfect package.

In France in August, costs can escalate quickly as you accumulate experiences and sample different restaurants. But as European Waterways luxury barge cruises are all inclusive, there are no unexpected costs or sudden escalations. Plus most of August is categorised as Value Season for our cruise fares. Find the holiday of your dreams in France in August, pay only once, and then sit back and relax whilst our dedicated crew takes care of your every need.

If you would like to know more about hotel barging in France in August, Contact our Cruise Team to help you plan your summer sojourn.