More blogs
April marks the first warm days of the year, and with them the first long weekends in France. If you're in the mood to get away from it all, here's a list of 5 destinations to go to in France in April 2024. Whether you want to soak up the sun on the Mediterranean, enjoy the wilderness of the mountains or the Atlantic coast, or discover France's most beautiful cities, this list has something for everyone.
5 destinations to go to in France in April:
- The Jura, close to nature
- Enjoy the warmth of southern France in the Gard region
- Corsica, a holiday on the Isle of Beauty without the tourists
- The Loire Castles to admire the gardens in spring
- The Landes and its wilderness in April
If you're looking for other destinations to visit in April, read on:
- Also read : Where to go in Europe in Spring
1. Jura: to get closer to nature in April
The Jura is one of our must-see destinations in France in April if you want to get away from it all. The climate at this time of year is pleasant, with gradually rising temperatures and nature coming back to life. The Jura region offers a multitude of outdoor activities. Nature awakens at this time of year, offering pure nature to all travelers who come to enjoy an ideal environment for hiking and outdoor activities.
In addition to outdoor activities, the Jura is also renowned for its rich cultural and gastronomic offering. Lovers of fine wine and cheese will be delighted by the local vineyards and cheese dairies. The warm welcome of the people of the Jura, the quality of the accommodation (from charming gîtes to comfortable hotels) and the peaceful atmosphere make the Jura a perfect destination to go to in France in April for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the big cities. Whether for a relaxing weekend or an active vacation, the Jura in April promises a memorable experience, combining nature and well-being.
What to do and where to go in April in the Jura?
The Jura is ideal for those who want to reconnect with nature. As a result, most of the activities available in this region are in the great outdoors. In April, we recommend the following activities:
- Hiking: the sentier des Combes and the cascades des hérissons are 2 hiking trails not to be missed in April
- Cycling: Jura's cycling route and mountain bike trails are perfect for a sporting outing suitable for all levels.
- Tasting of local wines and cheeses: take advantage of tastings organized in the wineries and cheese dairies to discover the culinary treasures of the region.
What's the weather like in the Jura in April?
April marks a change of season in the Jura region. There are far fewer rainy days, and temperatures gently rise, allowing you to enjoy the Jura countryside to the full. In terms of sunshine, the days are also longer.
| Where | Average temperature | Days of Rain |
|---|---|---|
| Jura | 53°F | 7 days |
Where to sleep in the Jura in April?
If you are planning a trip to the Jura in April, we recommend you book a few nights in the following accommodations:
- Maison d'hôtes & Spa La Scierie (Salins-les-Bains) : the perfect bed and breakfast for a quiet weekend in the Jura mountains
2. Gard region: enjoy the first rays of sunshine in April
If you'd like to get away from it all in April, without having to travel halfway around the world, the Gard is the ideal region to visit in France in April. Between its spectacular natural sites and its historic sites dating back over 2000 years, the Gard is ideal for couples, families or friends looking for sporting adventure, sunshine and a journey through time. This region boasts the mildest weather in France, and we highly recommend it as a vacation destination in April.
What to do and where to go in April in the Gard?
There's plenty to do in the Gard at this time of year. The icing on the cake is that most activities can be adapted to suit every type of traveler. Among our favorites, we highly recommend :
- A visit to the Pont du Gard: masterpiece of the Roman Empire, learn more about Europe's most majestic aqueduct
- A canoe trip in the Gardon gorges: Enjoy a day of sport in the heart of a UNESCO-listed park with spectacular scenery.
- Visit the city of Nîmes, the French Rome : avec ses arènes, sa Maison Carrée et sa Tour Montagne.
- Kitesurf in Grau du Ro: with friends or family, this extreme sport activity promises to fill you with emotion.
What's the weather like in France in April in the Gard region?
The weather in the Gard in April is one of the best in mainland France. The average high for the region is 64°F and the minimum is 51°F. The days start to get much longer, with the sun rising at 6am and setting at around 7:30pm.
| Where | Average Temperature | Days of Rain |
|---|---|---|
| Gard | 59°F | 4 days |
Where to sleep in the Gard in April?
If you've decided to visit the Gard in April, we recommend staying in Nîmes, so you can get close to the attractions while enjoying the lively Mediterranean city and its many restaurants. Among the city's accommodations, we highly recommend the following:
- Best Western Le Marquis de La Baume : stay in a beautiful hotel in the heart of the city of Nîmes. The rooms are comfortable and well-equipped, so you can make the most of your stay.
- Maison Albar Hotels L'Imperator : for a luxurious stay in the Gard region. The hotel's decor, attentive staff and restaurant make it the perfect choice for a stay in Nîmes in April.
3. Corsica: enjoy the Isle of Beauty without the tourists
Corsica in April is the perfect destination if you're looking for an idyllic spring vacation. With mild temperatures, it's the perfect time to bask on fine sandy beaches and enjoy the island's generous sunshine without the mass of tourists present in July and August. April is the perfect month for a quiet, intimate spring vacation on the Isle of Beauty. The beaches and coves are almost deserted, and the interior of the island reveals wild nature and breathtaking landscapes, far from the hustle and bustle of summer.
Numerous hiking trails allow you to explore the wilderness and enjoy exceptional panoramic views of the mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. The "sentier des douaniers" in the north of the island is one of our favorites in April. Corsica is also rich in charming towns and villages, such as Ajaccio, Bastia, Porto Vecchio, Calvi and Bonifacio. So you can enjoy the first hints of summer vacations, making Corsica the perfect destination to go to in France in April.
If Corsica is the ideal destination for you to go to in France in April, don't hesitate to read our complete guide on where to go in Corsica and what to do during your vacation:
- Also read : Visiting Corsica: the complete guide
What to do and where to go in April in Corsica
If you're wondering what to do in Corsica in April, here's our list of our favorite things to do in the region at this time of year:
- A day to discover the Sentier des douaniers trail : 19km walk in the wilderness on the Corsican coast
- Visit the little iskand of Rousse and Pietra : for adventurous snorkellers without the tourists
- Visit Porto-Vecchio: one of Corsica's most beautiful towns, built on the edge of a cliff
What's the weather like in Corsica in April?
Corsica is France's sunniest region in April. It's the perfect destination if you want to enjoy the island air and sunshine without having to cross the globe. The average temperature is 17 degrees, sometimes even reaching 20 degrees if the sky is cloudless. There are few rainy days in April, so you can spend long days outdoors.
| Where | Average Temperature | Days of rain |
|---|---|---|
| Corsica | 63°F | 6 days |
Where to sleep in Corsica in April?
If you've decided to choose Corsica as your destination in France in April, we recommend you book one of the following accommodations to enjoy an idyllic stay on the Isle of Beauty.
- Domaine Santa Giulia Palace (Porto-Vecchio) : This hotel boasts the typical charm of Corsican houses, with natural decor and views of the surrounding wilderness.
- Hôtel des Gouverneurs (Bastia) : located right in the center of town, you'll be able to take advantage of all the entertainment this Corsican town has to offer, and return home to relax in a warm cocoon at the end of the day.
4. The Loire castles: enjoy the gardens in early spring
The chateaux of the Loire Valley are a must-see destination in France, and surely one of the most perfect regions in which to visit in France in April. And why? Firstly, because April marks the spring season, when you can take full advantage of the gardens in bloom at the various châteaux. Unfortunately, this is less and less the case in the summer months, when temperatures tend to scorch vegetation. Secondly, you'll avoid the busloads of foreign tourists who tend to visit the castles between May and August.
This destination is perfect for lovers of history and architecture. It's also a great place to enjoy the mild spring air and natural surroundings.
What castle to see in the Loire Valley?
If you would like to visit the most beautiful châteaux of the Loire Valley during your vacation in France in April, we recommend you book tickets for the following 3 châteaux:
- Chenonceau Castle: Known for its ballroom spanning the Cher River, this château offers a fascinating combination of architecture and history, with remarkably well-preserved rooms and enchanting gardens in April.
- Blois Castle: in the heart of Blois, this château is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, famous for its octagonal staircase and harmonious blend of architectural styles.
- Chambord Castle: The largest and most majestic of the Loire castles. The Chambord castle is an architectural feat, renowned for its double staircase and vast forest estate.
What's the weather like in the Loire castles region in April?
In April, the climate along the châteaux de la Loire is relatively dry, with only 3 days of rain in the month. Temperatures remain mild, perfect for enjoying the château gardens, with an average of 59°F at midday. Conditions are just right for enjoying the châteaux without the influx of tourists that will follow.
| Where | Average Temperature | Days of rain |
|---|---|---|
| Loire Valley | 59°F | 3 days |
Where to stay to get closer to the Loire castle in April?
If you decide to visit the Loire castles in April, we recommend you book a hotel in Orleans or Angers if you still want to stay in a big city. Other hotels are also available along the Loire castles so you can make the most of your day at the châteaux. Among our favorite hotels, we recommend the following:
- Urban Jungle Hotel (Orleans) : This design hotel in the center of Orléans is the perfect place to enjoy the comfort and proximity of the city's restaurants.
- Auberge du bon Laboureur : Less than 5 minutes by car from the Château de Chennonceau, this warm and welcoming inn is the ideal base for your April vacation along the Loire châteaux.
5. Landes region: enjoy the coastal wilderness in April
The Landes region in April is perfect if you want to enjoy ocean air and outdoor activities, two aspects that make this destination ideal for those looking to take advantage of France's mild spring weather. With its pleasant climate and generous natural resources, the Landes invites you to discover and relax.
In this region, you won't have to choose between the lush green of the mountains and the proximity of the ocean, as both are close at hand.
What to do and where to go in April in the Landes?
If you're planning a trip to the Landes region in France in April, we recommend the following activities:
- Surf and water sports : The Landes coast is renowned as a surfing paradise in Europe. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, conditions are ideal for this sport. Other water sports such as bodysurfing are also popular and accessible on the vast beaches of the Landes.
- Cycling: With more than 600 km of cycle paths, the Landes region is ideal for exploring by bike. Whether for a short ride or a full day of exploration, cycling is an excellent way to enjoy the region's varied landscapes.
- The Dune du Pilat : it's not technically part of the Landes region, but borders it. Climb to the top of this impressive sand dune to admire the Landes forest..
What's the weather like in the Landes region of France in April?
April's mild temperatures in the Landes are ideal for coastal walks. The southern tip of the Landes is the region with the most sunshine and the least risk of rain. With an average temperature of 65°F, you can easily take advantage of the many outdoor activities on offer in this region.
| Where | Temp. Moyenne | Days of rain |
|---|---|---|
| Landes | 65°F | 8 days |
Where to stay in the Landes in April?
If you're planning a trip to the Landes in April, there are plenty of hotels to choose from in towns like Capbreton and Dax. Among our favorite hotels, we recommend you book the following:
- Hotel & Spa Vacances Bleues Le Splendid (Dax): enjoy a charming stay in the heart of the Landes region, as well as the hotel's in-house spa.
Where will you choose to go in France in April?
Now that you know our 5 favorite destinations in April, all that's left to do is book your hotel stay if you're lucky enough to have received a Hotelgift weekend gift card. If you know someone who's always on the go, why not give them the gift of a few days in a hotel. They'll be able to choose when and where to stay, anywhere in France and in over 170 destinations worldwide.
If you'd like more advice on where to go in France and the best times to go on vacation in certain regions, please consult the following guides:
