Versailles has an oceanic climate with four distinct seasons, shaped by its inland position in northern France about 20 km southwest of Paris. Expect mild to warm summers, cool winters, and precipitation spread fairly evenly throughout the year. The gardens and fountains at the Château de Versailles look their best from April through October, but the palace interiors are worth visiting any month. For a deeper dive into seasonal planning, check our best time to visit Versailles guide.
Versailles Weather by Month: Temperature and Rainfall
Average temperatures in Versailles range from 2°C (36°F) in January to 19°C (66°F) in July and August. Heatwaves can push summer days above 30°C (86°F), while winter nights occasionally dip below freezing. Annual rainfall totals about 640 mm, with May and October tied as the wettest months at roughly 62 mm each.
Here is the monthly breakdown for Versailles:
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Rainfall (mm) | Sunshine (hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 7°C / 45°F | 2°C / 36°F | 51 | 62 |
| February | 8°C / 46°F | 2°C / 36°F | 44 | 75 |
| March | 12°C / 54°F | 5°C / 41°F | 47 | 122 |
| April | 15°C / 59°F | 7°C / 45°F | 50 | 164 |
| May | 19°C / 66°F | 10°C / 50°F | 62 | 202 |
| June | 22°C / 72°F | 13°C / 55°F | 58 | 213 |
| July | 25°C / 77°F | 15°C / 59°F | 57 | 221 |
| August | 25°C / 77°F | 15°C / 59°F | 53 | 212 |
| September | 21°C / 70°F | 12°C / 54°F | 54 | 168 |
| October | 16°C / 61°F | 9°C / 48°F | 62 | 118 |
| November | 10°C / 50°F | 5°C / 41°F | 55 | 67 |
| December | 7°C / 45°F | 3°C / 37°F | 57 | 52 |
July and August are the warmest and sunniest months, each averaging over 210 hours of sunshine. May and October tie for the most rainfall at 62 mm, though rain tends to come in short showers rather than day-long downpours. January is the coldest month, with average lows of 2°C (36°F) and occasional frost in the palace gardens.
Versailles Weather by Month: Spring (March to May)
Spring in Versailles starts cool and becomes pleasantly mild by May. March highs reach 12°C (54°F) with daffodils and early blossoms appearing in the palace gardens. April warms to 15°C (59°F) and the garden fountains begin operating on weekends, drawing crowds even in light rain. May is the sweet spot: 19°C (66°F) highs, the longest days outside summer, and the gardens in full bloom. The Musical Fountains Show typically starts in late March or early April, making spring the first chance to see the water displays. Spring is also when the outdoor attractions in Versailles like the Grand Canal boating and garden walks become practical.
Versailles Weather by Month: Summer (June to August)
Summer is peak tourist season at Versailles, and for good reason: July and August both average 25°C (77°F) highs with 7 to 8 hours of sunshine per day. Rain is moderate at 53 to 58 mm per month, typically as short afternoon showers that clear quickly. The palace gardens feel their most spectacular, with the Musical Gardens and Fountains Night Show running on select evenings. Heatwaves can push temperatures past 32°C (90°F), and the Hall of Mirrors can feel stuffy with large crowds; arrive at opening time (9:00 AM) to avoid the worst of the heat and lines. The gardens provide shade under mature trees, and the Grand Canal offers rowboat rentals for a cooling break. For tips on avoiding the biggest crowds, see our Versailles travel tips and FAQ.
Versailles Weather by Month: Autumn (September to November)
September stays warm at 21°C (70°F) with more manageable crowds as European school holidays end. The palace gardens shift from green to gold, and the light on the Hall of Mirrors is softer and more photogenic. October cools to 16°C (61°F) and sees rain pick up to 62 mm, so carry a compact umbrella. November drops sharply to 10°C (50°F) with shorter days, but the palace interiors are heated and significantly quieter. The Versailles events calendar includes the Autumn Festival in September and October, adding cultural interest to the shorter days.
Versailles Weather by Month: Winter (December to February)
Winter in Versailles is cold and quiet. January highs reach only 7°C (45°F) with lows near freezing. Snow falls occasionally (2 to 4 days per winter on average) and when it does, the palace and gardens dusted in white are a photographer’s dream. The fountains are turned off from November through March, and the garden statues are covered for protection. On the plus side, palace ticket queues shrink dramatically; you can walk through the Hall of Mirrors with almost no one else in January. The Christmas season brings a small market and festive decorations to the town of Versailles, and hotel prices drop 30 to 50 percent compared to summer. Check our where to stay in Versailles guide for winter-friendly hotel recommendations.
