Best time to go to Marseille Average weather of Marseille, French Riviera and Provence
Lucie Lhortolat and Tony Samson last update: 18/04/2024When is the best time to go to Marseille?
The city of Marseille attracts many travelers every year in search of a sunny destination. Indeed, the winter climate of the Phocaean city is relatively mild, making it possible to visit the city throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Marseille is during the months of April to November. It is during this period that the weather is most pleasant, with many sunny days and mild temperatures. Of course, the most popular months are June to September. This is when the temperatures are highest, averaging around 25°C (77°F) between July and August. However, prices are often higher during this busy period.
Furthermore, if you are wondering when to visit Marseille to avoid the crowds, late spring and early autumn are periods to consider. The weather becomes slightly rainy from October, but the sun remains very present and temperatures are mild. In addition, May offers very favorable weather for exploring the calanques and enjoying outdoor activities.
Moreover, winter is not a period to completely avoid. Indeed, compared to cities in northern France, the weather in Marseille between December and February remains decent. Temperatures are rarely freezing, although the mistral wind can sometimes bring a chill. Additionally, Marseille remains one of the sunniest cities in Europe during winter, and it would be a shame not to take advantage of it. You will have plenty of opportunities to discover the charm of this city during the holiday season.
So, when is the best time to go to Marseille? Here's some more information to help you in your decision:
- The best months for good weather in Marseille are April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November
- On average, the warmest months are July and August
- The coldest months are January and February
- The rainiest months are October and November
- The best months for swimming are July, August and September
Annual weather in Marseille
Weather details in Marseille month by month
Weather and climate in Marseille
Like most cities in the south of France, such as Nice and Toulon, Marseille benefits from a Mediterranean climate. Temperatures are mild throughout the year. It is also one of the sunniest cities in France, which gives it undeniable charm in every season.
This is why the weather in Marseille is appealing to travelers all year round. Each season has its own charm, as we will see together... However, be aware of the mistral wind that often blows over the city and cools the atmosphere a bit.
Marseille's Climate in Summer
Summer is undoubtedly the period when the climate in Marseille is most favorable. Indeed, it is generally a dry and hot season, with a particularly blue and sunny sky. It is not uncommon to see temperatures exceed 30°C (86°F) in July and August, even though on average they range between 20 and 28°C (83°F) from June to September.
Moreover, Marseille can experience periods of intense heat where temperatures approach 40°C (104°F) . Unfortunately, the combination of the mistral wind blowing during this period and a very dry environment can sometimes lead to fires in the region. So, be vigilant during your vacation, especially if you plan on hiking in nature.
Furthermore, summer is also an ideal time to enjoy Marseille's beaches and its surroundings. The sea temperature averages around 25°C (77°F) during this season.
Marseille's Climate in Winter
Due to its Mediterranean climate, Marseille experiences a winter with mild temperatures and dominant sunshine. In December, the mercury hovers around 10 to 15°C (59°F) and remains around 10°C (50°F) in January and February. However, the mistral wind that blows over the city regularly during this season tends to increase the sensation of cold. This is probably the most challenging aspect of Marseille's winter climate for travelers, as well as for residents.
Moreover, winter is a slightly humid season in the Phocaean city. Although precipitation is less frequent than in autumn, there are about 5 rainy days per month. However, the sun remains very present, and gray days are few. Therefore, the climate is ultimately decent in winter for visiting the city.
Finally, with these conditions, snowfall is rare in Marseille, but it can happen in some years.
Marseille's Climate in Autumn
The weather in Marseille in autumn remains very pleasant for planning a stay. Indeed, at the beginning of autumn, temperatures are still warm with around 20 to 25°C (77°F) in September and 15 to 20°C (68°F) in October. It is still possible to swim during these two months with a sea temperature ranging between 20 and 22°C (72°F) .
Moreover, although the climate is generally sunny, there are, however, some rainy episodes especially from mid-October. Indeed, October and November are the rainiest months of the year.
That being said, it is nothing compared to what Paris or Brest experience during the same period, as the sun quickly returns to shine over the Phocaean city. It is rare for it to rain more than 5 days in a month.
Marseille's Climate in Spring
The climate in Marseille in spring is characterized by a significant amount of sunshine and a clear blue sky. March remains quite cool, with temperatures ranging between 10 and 15°C (59°F) . However, from April, temperatures rise gradually and reach around 20°C (68°F) .
On the other hand, precipitation is still present with about 4 or 5 rainy days per month. Of course, this should not spoil your stay as it is rare for rain to fall all day.
In the end, travelers passing through Marseille in spring mainly experience sunny days, allowing them to enjoy terraces and outdoor visits in peace.
Finally, from May onwards, you can sunbathe on Marseille's beaches, but only the most courageous will be able to swim as the water temperature hardly reaches 20°C (68°F) over the days.
Charts: temperature and rainfall in Marseille
In the charts below, you can see the following seasonal norms for the city of Marseille: the minimum and maximum outdoor temperature, the risk and amount of monthly rainfall, daily average sunshine, sea temperature, and relative humidity for each month of the year.
Outside temperature
Precipitation (rainfall)
Daily sunshine hours
Sea temperature
Humidity
Peak visitor numbers and tourist seasons in Marseille
Find out when Marseille has its high tourist season (the period when the influx of tourists is highest) and off-peak tourist season using our data and figures.
Tourist seasons in Marseille
- Very low season in Marseille
The months with the lowest number of tourists are: January, February and March. - Low season in Marseille
The months with low numbers of tourists are: November and December. - High season in Marseille
The number of visitors to Marseille is high in: April, May, June, July, September and October. - Peak season in Marseille
The largest number of tourists visiting Marseille is during: August.
Figure: Visitor index for Marseille month by month
Best time for low prices in Marseille
Average prices of hotels in Marseille month by month
Generally, December is the month with the lowest hotel prices in Marseille. So this is a great time to save on your holiday! In contrast, August is statistically the most expensive month of the year for hotels.
Find the best price for your hotel room
Average price for flights to Marseille
A return flight between London and Marseille is generally cheaper if you go in january ($ 84 on average): this is the best time for travellers on a tight budget. In contrast, you may end up paying $ 80 more for your airline ticket to Marseille if you go in august.
Find the best price for your flight Flight prices to Marseille
Average price of hiring a car in Marseille
On average, it costs $ 52 per day to hire a car in Marseille. This price varies by $ 19 depending on the month. In november, hiring a car costs an average of $ 44 per 24 hours, so this is the best time to save money! In contrast, the average price in july is $ 63.
Other cities and places near Marseille
Best time to go to the French Riviera and Provence
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