When to go en Occitanie ?

Because of its immense surface area, the Occitanie region is subject to different influences and is divided between three climates. The coastline benefits from a Mediterranean climate (high sunshine, low thermal amplitudes, mild temperatures). The Occitan part of the Aquitaine basin is subject to an oceanic climate (a little less sunshine and stronger amplitudes). Finally, a mountain climate prevails in certain areas (Lozère, Cévennes, Pyrenees).

When to go to Occitania ? Even if the region has two high tourist seasons in summer for all outdoor sports and in winter for mountain sports (in the Pyrenees and Lozere in particular), it can be visited all year round, given the mild climate. However, you will find fewer establishments open in the off-seasons, the advantage being that prices drop as the number of tourists drops and you can enjoy the country at your own pace, meeting more authentic producers and tourism professionals who have more time to spend with you.

In summer, the coastline, from Grau du Roi and La Grande-Motte to Cerbère and Banyuls-sur-Mer, experiences mass tourism, with numerous hotels and campsites, as well as attractions and activities. The natural parks also see an influx of tourists in search of outdoor sports activities (hiking, rafting, mountain biking, canoeing, caving ...). The year is punctuated by festivals, meetings and village celebrations, depending on the season.

As for the main cities, Toulouse, Montpellier, Perpignan, Sète, Nîmes... they can be visited all year round: as long as you are not afraid of the crowds and the scorching temperatures which are less bearable in the city than in the countryside or on the coast.