Where to visit in France in September

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Wondering when to visit France? Between the heat of the summer months and the unpredictability of winter, it can be difficult to find a convenient compromise. For those looking for a month that ticks all the boxes however - good weather, affordable prices and fewer tourists getting in your way - September is the perfect option.

The tourist season in France peaks in August. That isn’t to say you won’t bump into sight-seers or school trips in September, but you’re guaranteed to see far fewer of them. That means shorter queues for local attractions, calmer streets and much less stress when it comes to booking hotels, restaurants, or anything else for that matter.

With kids back at school, the prices for flights and hotels are often much more reasonable. Sure, the payoff is that the weather tends to be less summery, but that can often work out in your favour. Many regions of France, particularly in the south, remain warm, sunny and dry, without the sweltering heatwaves you’re liable to experience in July and August. Of course, the weather is changeable, and we can’t make guarantees!

You should also be aware that the Journées du Patrimoine takes place in September. Over the course of a weekend, many historical venues all over France grant free access to visitors - although you may have to put up with longer queues.

1. Dordogne

For anyone into their history, Dordogne in southwest France has plenty to offer, from prehistoric caves to medieval castles. This part of France isn’t quite as touristy as some of the major hubs, so in the quieter weeks of September you won’t have to worry about long queues or booked up restaurants - for the most part.

Dordogne is famous for its vineyards, and September is the best month to visit to sample the fruits of the harvest. There are countless options for anyone interested in wine tasting or related tours, as well as plentiful markets selling local wines, truffles and other seasonal delicacies.

2. Charente-Maritime

Located on France's Atlantic coast in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, Charente-Maritime is home to some of the loveliest - and quietest - beaches in France. Many of them are found on the department’s quaint but alluring islands, including the Île de Ré and the Île d’Oléron. Temperatures remain hot throughout September, but the Atlantic breeze can offer relief on warmer days, making it a great place and time to engage in all sorts of outdoor activities, from kayaking to hiking in the Marais Poitevin.

3. Bordeaux

Bordeaux is at its best in September. Take a riverboat down the Garonne or enjoy a picnic by the famous Miroir d’Eau, making the most of the hot weather before autumn kicks in.

Bordeaux’s reputation as the wine capital of the world is not without merit. This region has been producing wine for over 2,000 years, and is today home to over 6,000 wineries and 60 appellations. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the city also has a vibrant nightlife; Place de la Victoire and Bacalan in particular are home to some great bars and nightclubs.

4. Lille

With its distinctive Flemish architecture, present in the humble houses of the Old Town as much as the public buildings of the city centre, Lille offers sight-seers something different from what they might be used to throughout the rest of France. In September, the city hosts the famous Braderie de Lille, Europe’s largest flea market, drawing millions of treasure hunters and festival lovers alike every year.

5. Aix-en-Provence

Situated not far from the Côte d'Azur, Aix-en-Provence (sometimes referred to as Aix for short) generally remains hot and sunny in September - but with the kids back at school, it’s also much quieter than it tends to be in summer. Discover the idyllic charm that inspired some of Cézanne’s most famous paintings, or escape to the nearby countryside to experience some of the most gorgeous scenery in all of France.

Make sure to read our complete guide to Aix-en-Provence.

6. Corsica

Like elsewhere in France, Corsica benefits from less crowding and cheaper prices in September, while still radiating with the sunny weather it's known for - you'll still be able to sunbathe on the beaches and eat charcuterie al fresco. If you're planning on staying for a week or more, September is the perfect time to go travelling around the island, sampling the crystal blue waters, the stunning mountain regions with their stark massifs and city life in Ajaccio, the island's capital.