France
Lively cities, historical landmarks and beautiful countryside can all be found in the charming country of France.
Paris is the obvious choice when it comes to visiting France, but this doesn’t mean other French cities should be overlooked! Visit the French countryside, the region of Provence, Bordeaux, the island of Corsica, and the French Riviera! The French Riviera is the Mediterranean coast of southern France, and includes the resort towns of Marseille, St. Tropez, Cannes, Nice and the nation of Monaco! Southern France is absolute gorgeous!
These are just a few reasons that France is must visit country, at least once in your life. Paris is home to iconic landmarks such as the the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Versailles, Notre Dame Cathedral and the catacombs. In the South of France in Provence are a plenty of wineries and spectacular scenery.
Below you will find comprehensive guides to the country.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit France is during its shoulder seasons. From April to May and September to November, you’ll have an easier time finding cheaper flights and hotel’s will lower their rates. Plus, you will miss the summer crowds and spend less time waiting to catch a glimpse of the Mona Lisa in the Louvre Museum or waiting to enter the Eiffel Tower.
If you’re planning to visit France over the summer (June to August), be sure to book your accommodation and excursions well in advance. It’s the busiest time of year as schools are out and there is warmer weather.
If you go between November and December you will find the streets of Paris lined with Christmas lights, you will also be able to visit the Christmas Markets for a hot mulled wine.
For a month by month look, click here
What To Expect
Capital: Paris
Language: The official language in France is French.. ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in French: “bonjour” and “merci”
Currency: The official currency of France is the Euro (EUR). £1 GBP is equivalent to 1.18 EUR. Check the latest rates here
Credit Cards & ATMs: If you see a blue CB logo (it stands for Carte Bleue), that means the shop takes international Visa and MasterCards. Most shops will not accept American Express. ATMs are easy to find, just type in “cash machines” or “ATM’s” on google maps and you will find plenty. Some places may accept contactless payments. We found it best to pay with cash in France.
Plugs: In France the plugs are Type C and E. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz.. I recommend buying a universal adapter
Safety: France is generally a safe country to travel to. However, pickpockets and tourist scams are common, especially in Paris. On Global Peace Index, France ranks 66 out of 163 countries. In Europe overall, France ranks poorly, at 31 out of 36 European destinations. Violent crime involving travelers is very rare.
Random useful tip: Tipping in France is more of a gesture, and less of an obligation. So, if you feel you had great service, leave a tip!
Dont’s: 1.Do not assume everyone speaks and understands English. 2.Do not take out coffee and drink it while walking down the street. Drink it at a cafe, either standing at a bar or sitting at a table. It is considered rude in France.
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in France, reasons to visit France, and how to travel France on a budget.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in France
(Note: France is brimming with activities. Truly, there’s an abundance to explore and experience. The following are just a few of our top picks. For more country-specific activities, refer to the detailed guides linked to each country below!)
There’s no symbol more synonymous with France than the majestic Eiffel Tower. Standing tall in the heart of Paris, this iron marvel offers a panoramic view of the city’s sprawling boulevards, historic bridges, and iconic landmarks. Whether you choose to climb its steps or take the lift, the view from the top, especially at sunset, is nothing short of magical. As evening descends, the tower sparkles every hour, casting a golden hue over the City of Lights. Beneath its arches, picnickers, musicians, and lovers gather, embodying the romantic spirit of Paris.
When summer graces the south of France, the rolling landscapes of Provence transform into a sea of purple. The fragrant lavender fields, in full bloom, are a sight to behold. Meandering through these floral expanses, the gentle hum of bees and the soothing scent create an almost therapeutic experience. Nearby, historic towns like Avignon, with its Papal palace, and Aix-en-Provence, known for its thermal spas, offer a blend of culture and relaxation. Visiting a local distillery to see how lavender essential oil is made completes the Provençal experience.
Nestled along the Garonne River, Bordeaux is the wine capital of the world. This UNESCO World Heritage city, with its neoclassical architecture and sprawling vineyards, invites oenophiles to indulge in some of the world’s finest wines. Venturing into the wine estates of Médoc, Saint-Émilion, or Pessac-Léognan, visitors can learn about the art of winemaking, explore historic cellars, and sample exquisite vintages. Pairing a wine-tasting session with local cheeses, fresh baguettes, and rich pâtés encapsulates the culinary delights of France.
Perched on a rocky island in Normandy, Mont Saint-Michel appears like a mirage from medieval tales. This Gothic abbey, with its soaring spires, stout defensive walls, and delicate flying buttresses, rises majestically above the sea. At high tide, it becomes an island, while at low tide, the surrounding mudflats beckon explorers. Navigating its narrow alleys, steep staircases, and cloistered courtyards feels like travelling back in time. The abbey’s church, with its stunning views and tranquil ambiance, is the crowning jewel of this architectural marvel.
The French Alps, with their snow-capped peaks and pristine slopes, are a winter wonderland for skiing enthusiasts. Resorts like Chamonix, Meribel, and Val d’Isère cater to both seasoned skiers and beginners, offering a range of trails, modern lifts, and cosy chalets. Beyond skiing, the region offers snowboarding, ice-climbing, and winter hiking. As evening falls, the alpine villages come alive with festive lights, gourmet restaurants, and lively après-ski bars. Sipping on hot chocolate or savouring a hearty raclette, with the mountains as a backdrop, captures the essence of a French winter escapade.
Our Favourite Experiences
Check out these experiences in France that should be on your list!
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