France > Tourist Information

Weather

France offers a temperate and continental climate in the north, Mediterranean in the south, mountains are cooler with heavy snows in the winter. A great holiday destination all year round.

Festivals

Main national days off are May Day, on 1 May, and Bastille Day, on 14 July.

The world-famous Cannes Film Festival takes place in mid-May. In August, the country goes on holiday and many places will be closed. Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer in the Camargue is the venue for a colourful gypsy festival in late May, characterised by wild singing and dancing.

Etiquette

Kissing both cheeks is the usual form of greeting. The form of personal address is simply Monsieur or Madame. Mealtimes are often long and leisurely with many courses. Topless sunbathing is tolerated on most beaches but naturism is restricted to certain beaches - check with the local tourist office.