Visiting France in October

Take a holiday in France this October and enjoy a romantic getaway, a wine tasting tour at harvest time, an activity holiday in the great outdoors or a half term family break at a theme park.

October is a wonderful time to visit France. Picturesque towns and villages become almost enchanted as soft sunshine highlights the vivid colours of autumn. The grape harvest is at its peak, wine festivals abound and cooler days make outdoor activities a pleasure. Both accommodation and travel are cheaper than in summer, with some real bargains to be had.

French Wine Tasting in October

The wine harvest is in full swing this month, with traditional celebrations and festivities in all the famous wine regions of France. There’s even a wine festival in Montmartre, Paris, celebrating the fruits of local vineyards. Everywhere you’ll find a warm welcome from locals, see parades and musical spectacles, taste local food and drink a lot of wine. With a wine tasting break, you’ll even become an expert. Make your base for exploring the vineyards a fairytale chateau B&B, a self-catering manoir or wine domaine or a pretty gite overlooking rolling slopes of vines.

French Romantic Getaways in October

Make time for a weekend – or even a week – in the land of lovers, now that the crowds have left. Romance can mean much more than strolling the banks of the Seine in Paris. Great ideas for romantic getaways in France include coastlines, gardens and evocative places of interest. Whether you stay in a secluded luxury gite in the country or a boutique apartment on a city break, October is a great time to go.

Visit French Theme Parks in October

Give the whole family a half-term treat with a trip to one of France’s spectacular theme parks. The choice ranges from from Eurodisney to Futuroscope, Vulcania to Park Asterix and more. Visiting a theme park and staying in self catering accommodation nearby can be both affordable and flexible.

Take a French outdoor activity break in October

October is an excellent time to stretch the limbs and savour fresh air in France’s unspoilt countryside and wide open spaces. Enjoy Outdoor France with a walking holiday, cycling holiday, or horse riding break in national parks and natural areas like the Luberon, Cevennes, Vanoises and Les Ecrins. Or go on a boating holiday on French scenic canals and rivers.

French Public and School Holidays in October

There are no public holidays in October. Clocks go back one hour on 30th October.

Average Temperatures in France During October

The average temperatures across France during October are:

• In Paris the average temperature is around 59 Fahrenheit or 15 degrees Celsius.
• In the South West the average temperature is 64 Fahrenheit or 18 degrees Celsius.
• In Provence the average temperature is 65 Fahrenheit or 18 degrees Celsius.
• In Corsica the average temperature is 67 Fahrenheit or 19 degrees Celsius.

French Events and Festivals in October

Among the many wine festivals is Fete des Vendanges in Banyuls-sur-Mer in the heart of the Roussillon wine region. The grape harvest is celebrated by locals and visitors alike on 9-10th October, with children stomping grapes the traditional way. Of course, there’s lots of wine, music and food and a wine-growers lunch is held on the beach.

The beautifully preserved medieval town of La Bastide d’Armagnac holds a festival on 30-31st October in its picturesque narrow streets to celebrate the harvest for its Armagnac eau de vie, the lighter, more delicate version of cognac Brandy. Cycling fans will also enjoy the town’s collection of Tour de France memorabilia.

The Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, France’s richest and most prestigious horse race, is held on 2nd-3rd October at the Longchamp Racecourse near Paris. Enjoy not only the racing but also the people watching as Paris turns out in its finery.

Descent from the high mountain pastures takes place in Annecy, a beautiful and romantic town at the foot of the French Alps. There is a procession of the animal herds from the high pastures through its streets, bands and folklore groups, traditional craft and food demonstrations.
Lyon is a mecca for art and antiques lovers in October. 7th October sees Tapis Rouge, the dazzling antiques festival with free valuations, displays and sales late into the night accompanied by live jazz.

Holiday Accommodation in October

With the tourist season past its peak, you’ll find fantastic value for getting to France and places to stay. To grab even more of a bargain head over to our last minute availability and accommodation special offers.

Great Travel Deals to France for October

If you're planning to travel to France in October, French Connections can point you to some great travel deals including discounted ferry tickets, French train tickets, discounted care hire, and cheap flights to France.