Our once hoped for trip in September or October has now been pushed to November. I am concerned that the weather will be a negative that time of year and if many of the places of interest will be closed or on limited schedules. Does anyone have any helpful input? Would I be better off pushing the trip to the following May? We will also be doing Paris.
Posted by
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
8293 posts
You could do a little research on wunderground.com for usual November weather in that part of France.
Posted by
Chicago
8166 posts
I went in January and it was pretty mild a little drizzle but milder than Paris. You are more likely find things open in November than I did in January. Also look up each place you are planning to go to. Most have a website with the hours and closing periods.
Based on this weather forecast average I would not worry just bring a hood and shoes water resistant and layer under as needed
https://www.accuweather.com/en/gb/normandy/gu3-2/november-weather/331038
Posted by
Portsmouth
5541 posts
Atlantic storms are common in November so it could be wet and windy or dull and drizzly or bright, crisp and cold. There's no guarantee so come prepared for the worst and hope for the best.
Posted by
OP
Upstate NY
99 posts
Sounds like our Novembers in Upstate NY!
Posted by
IJzendijke, The Netherlands
2088 posts
I visited Normandy around Fécamp and Étretat in November 2005 and have to say that wheather has it own charm during that time of the year. Good for hiking or a serious beach stroll and after that a hot bath, drink or having dinner somewhere. Having an intriguing conversation with a good glas of wine or calvados enjoying the warmth of an open fire after sunset …. It is earlier dark and later light in November, if there are enough indoor activities you like it is certainly a period to consider.
Posted by
174 posts
I would say in some ways it’s a shot in the dark. I was in Paris early May 2015 and it was rainy and 45 degrees cold. I was in Normandy in May 2018 and we had beautiful 70+ degree weather for the entire week we were there. My parents were in Paris in March 2018 and dealt with snow and frigid 30 degree temps.
I think with Normandy being on the coast, the sea probably helps moderate the temperature somewhat but I would be prepared for quite cold weather, just in case. The wind along the Atlantic Coast can be wicked. Even with that beautiful weather we had in May, I still had on a jacket sometimes due to the wind... while getting sunburned at my ankles, haha.
The majority of major sites will likely be open but will have shorter hours. If there is something you are particularly interested in, I would look up the hours. The RS book usually says when there is a difference in high vs low season hours.