Summer 2026
Stay informed about everything happening in France this summer, from travel news to weather forecasts and from cultural and sporting events to all the law changes you need to know.
MAPS: Where are all the wildfires and warnings in France right now?
Another major fire has broken out in south-west France, while the whole country has been placed on alert for more blazes - here's the latest on the situation.
7 activities to do during a French heatwave
If France is in the grip of a heatwave you may need to alter your plans - here are some suggestions for fun activities to do when the temperature soars.
What are the rules on booking a sun lounger on a French beach?
The pre-breakfast dash to reserve a prime spot on the beach or by the pool for a lazy day soaking up the rays may be a waste of time in France.
Drought: Could tap water run out in France this summer?
After weeks of intense heatwaves, France is facing a severe drought that is putting increasing pressure on the country's water supplies. So are we really likely to see the taps run dry?
Gelato for lunch? Bedlinen in the freezer? Heatwave tips from southern Europe
With scorching temperatures breaking records across Europe this summer, The Local has put together tried and tested tips for surviving heatwaves from southern Europe, where locals have had decades of practice coping with the heat.
'Don't sleep naked' - How to get a good night’s sleep in a French heatwave
France's searing heatwaves can also bring with them some hot, sticky and uncomfortable nights - so here are some tips from experts to help you sleep when it's hot.
Sand, smoking and sex: The rules you need to respect on French beaches
Looking to enjoy a relaxing holiday on the beach in France? Here are the rules you should know before setting up your umbrella.
Should you cancel your French holiday due to wildfires?
Headlines in France in recent days have been dominated by a series of huge wildfires, with thousands of hectares burned, homes evacuated and others left without power. So is it still safe - and advisable - to holiday here?
What changes in France in August 2026
The women’s Tour de France gets under way, there’s a little good news for savers, property tax bills start arriving, your phone should ring a little less often... and two celestial events mark the month of August in France.
French vocabulary to understand wildfire warnings and evacuations
Wildfires are frightening enough without the added challenge of trying to understand emergency information in another language. Whether you're following evacuation orders, listening to local radio or reading official updates, here's the essential French vocabulary to help you stay informed.
Will France see another heatwave in August?
Most of France has emerged from its third heatwave in just two months, with temperatures finally easing across most of the country - so what's in store for the weeks ahead?
Can your boss ban you from working remotely from France?
If you're planning on combining a holiday in France with a couple of days of work this summer, you may need to check whether your company allows this.
How expensive will fuel be if I'm driving in France this summer?
If you’re visiting France by car this summer, here’s what you need to know about current fuel prices, predictions for the summer, and some tips on how to get hold of the cheapest fuel.
UK-France travel: The latest on EES at Eurostar, Eurotunnel and Dover
The rollout of Europe's EES biometric border system is supposed to be fully implemented, but for travellers heading between France and the UK via Dover, the Eurotunnel or Eurostar the situation is slightly different.
Climate refuge: Can you really escape the French heatwaves in Brittany?
As heatwaves intensify across France, a growing number of holidaymakers are turning to Brittany - long associated with rain and cooler temperatures, the region is increasingly being seen as a refuge from extreme heat. But in reality, it's not that simple.
CEAM: How to get a French European health insurance card
If you're getting ready to travel across Europe this summer, here's everything you need to know about the European health card.
Listed: What you have to carry in your car in France
France’s Code de la Route is very clear – every driver must ensure a number of very specific safety items are in their vehicle at all times, at risk of a fine. This also applies to foreign drivers who are bringing their vehicle to France.
Can tenants in France stop paying rent during a heatwave?
French summers are becoming increasingly difficult for people living in poorly insulated homes, so can tenants stop paying rent if their home becomes unbearably hot during a heatwave?
UPDATE: French towns cancel July 14th fireworks over risk of wildfires
Several French towns have cancelled fireworks planned for Bastille Day celebrations on July 14th as soaring temperatures and drought conditions increase the risk of wildfires across much of the country.
LATEST: France extends red heatwave alert to Paris region as temperatures soar
Forecaster Météo-France placed 24 départements on red heatwave alert, with a further 59 on orange alert for Saturday.
'Prendre le large': The French expressions and vocab you need for the summer
From the phrases people use before heading off on holiday to the expressions that capture the excitement of escaping for a well-earned break, here's a guide to the French expressions and vocab you'll come across over the next two months.
Which parts of France face the highest temperatures this weekend?
As the heatwave continues over France, where are temperatures expected to be the highest?
Uber Eats and Deliveroo to give France drivers break when too hot
Uber Eats and Deliveroo on Wednesday said they would impose afternoon breaks for food delivery cyclists in parts of France under severe heat warnings, in a measure not so far applicable despite high temperatures.