When travelling to Marseille, when to go is important, but not as important as simply being able to go to the beautiful city of Marseille in the first place! Still, you should probably consider such factors as the weather when planning your trip, as the time of year will affect your plans. Here's a look at what you can expect throughout the year.

Winter

Winters in Marseille last from December to February and are usually cold and dry. January and February are the coldest months of the season, and temperatures can range from freezing to about 10 degrees C. There isn't much rain to speak of throughout the season, but it can get fairly humid. Every once in a while there will be frost in the mornings. In general, though, it's still a very pleasant time to visit.

Spring

March to May is spring in Marseille, with temperatures averaging around 20 degrees C. There is occasional rain, mostly light but every once in a while you can expect a blow-out storm with torrential rains. The cold wind known as the Mistral is still blowing in the spring, and does unexpectedly drop the temperature, so pack a few sweaters for the occasional cold day.

Summer

The hot and dry days of summer start in June and carry on through August. Temperatures can soar to 30 degrees C, but the sea breezes bring it down by a good 5 degrees C. The water is warm and the sun shines almost every day, so this is an extremely popular time of year to visit. July is the driest month, but rainfall and humidity are at an all time low through the entire season.

Autumn

Temperatures in the autumn drop back down to an average of 20 degrees C, so September through November are usually quite pleasant. Rain does become more common, and like the spring the light showers can suddenly become harsh downpours. The Mistral makes its appearance in the fall, causing the occasional frigid day. The winds can blow up to 62 miles per hour, so you'll want to stay indoors when they occur.

In Marseille, when to go will change your itinerary, but you're always sure to find a pleasant atmosphere and plenty of things to do. While you won't be hitting the beach in the winter, you'll love visiting the various museums and landmarks throughout the area. And the spring and autumn are both great for enjoying the outdoors without the crowds of the summer season, just don't forget to bring a jacket for colder days and evenings!