France
Traveling in France
Home of silky wine, stinky cheese and crispy croissants but also 40.000 castles as well as some of history’s most famous figures. The territory has seen bloody battles and overwhelming victories, both of which have shaped the world we live in today. Traveling in France is an adventure for all the senses!
The Republic of France is the most visited country in Europe, with a yearly count that is just shy of 90 million visitors, to say it is positively bursting with tourists is an understatement.
And yet, there are 18 regions in France, step outside the tourist hotspots of Paris and the Provence to find tourism reduced to a trickle. It is well worth venturing on a road trip to visit all 44 heritage sites in France starting with the Cathédral de Notre-Dame in Amiens, close to the Belgian border, and ending with the historic town of Carcasonne near the Spanish border.
Tourist attractions in France
The list of destinations in France is seemingly endless. Despite the overall busyness of Paris, the capital of France is unparalleled. The restaurants, museums, gardens and Art Nouveau in Paris are worth braving hordes of tourists.
The East of France is home to the best Christmas markets in France (Alsace) as well as some of the best hiking in France (The Jura Mountains).
The South of France (Provence) is known for its fields of lavender, quaint villages and the jet-set French Riviera, while the West of France is the perfect spot for those looking to learn about wine or relax on the Silver Coast, endless sandy beaches sprawled along the Atlantic Ocean.
To round it all off with the North of France; think Mont Saint Michel, the old fishing village of Honfleur and the cultural capital Rouen.
Tips for traveling in France
There are a couple of things to know before traveling in France:
- Carry your ID: French law dictates you need a proper identification on you at all times.
- Water is free: During meals you can order a carafe (jug) of tap water.
- Tipping in France: Not customary
- Driving in France: Motorways in France are all toll roads. Use ViaMichelin to check what your journey will cost.
- Sunday is a closing day for most stores.
- Cheese: A cheese platter can be eaten before or instead of dessert.
Places to Visit in France
EAST FRANCE: JURA MOUNTAINS
SW FRANCE: ONE WEEK IN
NOUVELLE AQUITAINE
INSPO: EUROPEAN ISLANDS
INSPO:
EUROPEAN LANDMARKS
Key facts about France
Capital |
Paris |
Main Languages |
French |
Population |
67.39 million |
Currency |
Euro (€) |
Main religion |
Catholic |
Time Zone |
UTC+1/ UTC+2 |
Plugs types |
C, E |
Driving |
Right side of the road |
Emergency Number |
112 |
Practical information for visiting France
HOW TO GET THERE
Fly: Paris Charles de Gaulles (CDG) or one of the 17 other International airports
High Speed Train: Thalyse from Amsterdam or Brussels, the Eurostar from London
ACCOMODATIONS
Find a list of comfortable accomodations ranging from local guesthouses to luxury hotels.
BUDGET
Average Daily Budget: $110
Meals $35 a person; hotel accomodations $65- $130; activities (museums) $30
Note: Paris is more expensive (Prices x 1.5)
WHEN TO GO
France is a year round destination with a moderate temperate climate (warm summers, mild winters).
Aim for shoulder season (April to May; September to November)
VISA REQUIREMENTS
Depending on the country of origin visitors can stay for up to 90 days; costs depending on the country of origin
TOURS & ACTIVITIES
Skip the line for the Louvre/ the Eiffel Tower, go on a day trip to sip champagne or visit Monet’s garden & house and so much more!
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FRANCE TRAVEL GUIDES
PARIS GUIDES
Blogposts on France
Paris Day Trip to Bruges: What to See, Do & Eat. Including Map & Practical Info
One Day Trip From Paris to Brussels
26 Best Day Trips From Paris by Train: Under 2 Hours from Paris
10 Villages and Towns in Dordogne You Do Not Want to Miss
14 Castles in Dordogne to Visit
Exploring the village Saint-Cirq-Lapopie in the Lot Valley
Things to Do in Rocamadour France
Brantôme Dordogne Travel Guide
Nouvelle-Aquitaine France: One week guide to the largest region in France
Hidden gems in France: A guide to the Eastern France Doubs and Jura region in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Rows of vineyards surrounding picturesque villages inspired the likes of Gustav Courbet and Victor Hugo. Eastern France sure knows how to put on a show! This guide will help you uncover the hidden gems in France you never knew you were missing out on. We delve into the Doubs and Jura region in Bourgogne Franche-Comté: copious amounts of yellow wine, an arduous tale of salt, and endless waterfalls await!