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Time & daylight

When can you expect sunrise and sunset each day?

Learn about the time zone in France and what kind of daylight hours you'll experience.

Daylight hours in France

Your trip could take you from Paris in the north to the Riviera in the south, so daylight hours shift a little as you travel.

The time zone in mainland France is Central European Time (CET). The country also observes daylight saving time, or "summer time". That means in spring, the clock shifts forward by 1 hour, and in autumn, it moves back 1 hour.

When does the sun rise and set in France?

With the addition of daylight savings, summer days in France are generous. Expect close to 16 hours of daylight in Paris, with the Riviera getting nearer to 15.

Winter is a quieter, shorter affair. Paris sees around 8–9 hours of daylight, while the south stretches to 9–10.

Planning a trip that spans Paris & the South? Get in touch and we'll help you make the most of the light.

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