Air Conditioning in France: What Travelers Need to Know
Published May 30, 2025
If you're visiting France in the summer and expecting strong air conditioning everywhere, you're probably going to be surprised. A lot of places just don’t have it. Or if they do, it might not be what you’re expecting.
This isn’t to scare you off, it’s just to help you prepare. France in summer can be beautiful. It can also be hot, and knowing what to expect makes a big difference. And if you’re used to American air conditioning, well, read on.
How Common Is Air Conditioning in France?
Not very. Some places have it. Many don’t.
Apartments and vacation rentals: Most won’t have central air. You might get a small unit in the bedroom or just a fan. Open windows and shutters are the norm.
Hotels: Most modern or higher-end properties will have decent systems. Others say “air-conditioned” but only cool shared areas or provide limited coverage in rooms. Always check reviews.
Restaurants and shops: Many businesses leave doors open in the summer. A/C might be there but off, or only running near staff areas.
Trains and public transit: TGV trains are usually fine. Regional trains and metros vary a lot. Some cool well. Some don’t cool at all.
What About Floor Cooling and Radiant Systems?
Some newer places have radiant floor cooling or reversible systems that can cool in summer. These work, but not like a strong blast of cold air. They're quiet and energy-efficient, but slow. And most listings don’t explain what kind of system is being used. If it matters to you, always ask.
How to Book a Place in France With Reliable Air Conditioning
If you’re booking in July or August and care about staying cool, do not rely on checkboxes alone. Here’s what to look for:
Use the air conditioning filter, but don’t trust it blindly. Many listings mark it, even if it only cools one room.
Check reviews from travelers who stayed during hot months.
Ask the host what kind of system they have and which rooms it reaches.
Avoid top-floor and south- or west-facing apartments, especially in older buildings. These heat up quickly.
Courtyard or north-facing rentals are often cooler and quieter.
If You End Up Somewhere Without A/C
Still common. Here’s how to handle it:
Open windows at night and close them with shutters or curtains early in the day.
Wear lightweight clothing made of linen or cotton.
Ask for tap water (“une carafe d’eau”) in restaurants. It’s free and safe.
Pick up a fan from a local grocery store or pharmacy.
Spend afternoons in shaded parks, churches, or museums.
Cooler Parts of France to Consider in Summer
Brittany
Normandy
The Basque coast
The Alps and Pyrenees
All are a few degrees cooler than Paris, Lyon, or Provence in July and August.
Final Thought
Air conditioning isn’t standard in France. It might be present but limited, or it might not be there at all. Know what to expect, check before you book, and adjust how you plan your days. Summer in France can still be great, just pack light and ask the right questions.
Want help figuring out what to bring? Check out our France Summer Packing List or send us a message. We’ve been there. And we’ll tell you the truth.
