Does France shut down in July? (2024)

Does France shut down in July?

The most important factor in deciding when to visit France is tourism itself. As most French people holiday in their own country, consider avoiding the main French holiday periods – mid-July to the end of August. At this time almost the entire country closes down, except for the tourist industry itself.

What happens in France during July?

One of the revolutionary days in Paris and now a national holiday, the 14th of July ("Bastille Day") is celebrated with a mixture of solemn military parades and easygoing dancing and fireworks.

Does France take the summer off?

The French usually take their holidays between 15 July and 15 August. Holidaymakers from Northern French traditionally migrate south to the Mediterranean or the Atlantic beaches, causing enormous traffic jams along the motorways and roads.

What month does France shut down?

France is famous for many things. Baguettes, good food and good wine. But also the infamous French August shutdown. It is said that every year, the whole of France shuts down during this time when everyone chooses to take their summer holidays at the same time.

How long is summer break in France?

French schools have five holidays during the year: All Saints 'autumn' break, Christmas, winter break, spring holiday (Easter), and the summer holiday. The breaks are usually two weeks except for summer holidays which last eight weeks.

Should I go to France in July?

July is a wonderful time to enjoy being outdoors in France, go hiking or cycling, visit the beach, or have a picnic in one of France's many parks, gardens or even vineyards. It can get pretty hot, but generally we don't get the unbearably hot temperatures of August.

Is it good to travel to France in July?

When is the best time to visit France? The best time to visit France is in spring (April-May), summer (June-August), or autumn (September-October). Spring is pleasant across the country, with fewer crowds and temperatures ranging from 55°F to 68°F.

Does France still shut down in August?

Traditionally, most people went in August, when factories closed and the country pretty much shut down. But as the French economy has evolved and manufacturing has declined, people can now choose which month to go on vacation.

Does France get August off work?

Most people in Paris still have upwards of 45 days of annual leave and a lot of companies encourage employees to take a good chunk of that in August.

Does Paris close in the summer?

Major tourist attractions stay open all year (except for major holidays), but some smaller museums along with many boutiques, antique shops, Michelin-starred bistros, and art galleries close during August, the month when many Parisians leave the city for their own vacations.

Is France busy in July?

Paris receives some 35 million visitors a year. Most tourists come between May and September, and July is typically the busiest month (followed closely by June and August).

Why is everything closed in France in August?

This may surprise many, but one of the primary reasons people in France and Italy shut their doors in August is the heat. Whilst many flock to these countries specifically for the warmth, by the time August rolls around, the heat, coupled with higher humidity, has taken a toll on locals.

Why is everything closed on Monday in France?

The reason lies in France's enshrined labour code, the Code du Travail, which was first published in 1910. The Code du Travail used to say that it was illegal for anyone to work more that six days a week and that workers should have 35 consecutive hours of rest.

How long is vacation in France?

France: 30 days of paid vacation per year. United Kingdom: 28 days of paid vacation per year. Austria: 25 days of paid vacation per year. Denmark: 25 days of paid vacation per year.

How long is summer break in Europe?

Summer breaks seem to be important in Europe, a region where primary school students have between six and 13 weeks of. With about nine weeks of summer school holidays, the French like to spend a fair amount. Spending in France was above the average budget for summer holiday travel in Europe in 2021.

What is summer break called in France?

School holidays in France

Christmas holiday (Vacances de Noël) Winter holiday (Vacances d'hiver) Spring holiday (Vacances de printemps) Summer holiday (Vacances d'été)

Is Paris too crowded in July?

From June to August the weather in Paris is just about parfait (perfect). Average highs are in the high 70s and there are long days of sunshine. Unfortunately, summer is also the most crowded time – and the most expensive. For lower travel rates and significantly shorter lines at attractions, plan a visit in the fall.

Is it too hot to visit Paris in July?

Is Visiting Paris in July Worth It Despite the Heat? Yes, definitely. The long sunny days of July are fantastic. Dress for the heat, slather yourself with sunscreen, and consider staying in a place with air conditioning, and you'll have a wonderful time.

Is Paris fun in July?

July in Paris is sizzling hot days and glorious warm evenings with fêtes and fireworks to celebrate Bastille Day! The month is filled with stellar events like the Tour de France and Paris Plages, when the banks of the Seine are transformed into an enormous beach.

What should I wear in France in July?

Pack a mix of trousers, dresses, skirts, and maybe a pair of jeans or two. Parisians don't necessarily wear a lot of shorts however on days when the weather is unbearable hot, you might see them in shorts. However, keep the short shorts at home and instead go for a longer pair of Bermuda shorts in cotton or linen.

Is it better to travel in Europe in July or August?

overview. July is a good time to visit Europe. While you will be able to enjoy the hot mid-summer weather, it isn't quite as intensely warm in southern Europe as it is in August. The weather is certain to appeal to those who want to enjoy summer weather but don't like it too warm.

Should I travel to Europe in July?

Although Europe is a year-round travel destination, the best time to visit Europe is during the summer months of June to September. This is the time when the sun is high, the beaches are warm and the weather is sunny.

Do Parisians leave Paris in August?

Paris in the summertime is often buzzy and people flock to the outdoors as well as the monuments, museums and attractions the city is best known for. The Parisians often depart in August for les vacances so you'll encounter more tourists then Parisians in certain locals throughout the city.

Why is Paris empty in August?

Parisians leave the city every summer because the summer heat can make life pretty miserable. That is why there is a mass exodus from the city every July and August. You might think I'm exaggerating, but I promise you I'm not. Shops, restaurants, and bakeries close for a month at a time in the summer.

Why is Paris quiet in August?

Though the tradition of locals abandoning the city entirely for the month of August to hit the beach has abated a bit, many Parisians do still go on vacation during this time. If you duck away from major touristic areas, you're likely to find some shockingly quiet small streets in Paris.