France travel guide

Paris

Where does one begin to describe Paris? The city tends to leave even the most cunning linguist without words, and therein lies the magic of Paris. Whether you’ve got two days in Paris or a week, the amount of breathtaking places to stay and things to do will blow you away.

Grenoble

If you’ve ever wanted a shining example of how France blends the vibrancy of city life with a stunning natural setting, head for Grenoble. A cornerstone of French travel flair, the charming city at the foot of the Alps offers tantalising restaurants and plenty of activities and attractions.

The Alps

The Alps have something for every kind of traveller. Any thrill-seeker nirvana and the dreamscape of those yearning for a luxury ski holiday, there’s no equal. Although you can pump adrenaline while ice climbing, hiking in the Ecrins National Park offers a more calm interaction with nature.

Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is a place of unimaginable beauty where breathtaking scenery is the theme of daily life. Trust me, you’ll know what I mean once you see it. Brimming with historic villages and tranquil vineyards, the best way to explore the valley is on a bike tour or wine excursion.

Bordeaux

Being the 6th largest city doesn’t mean that Bordeaux needs to be 6th on your list of priorities. Whether exploring its many art museums or indulging in the future-forward tastes within the local cuisine, Bordeaux is a delicious feast.

Strasbourg

A combination of French and German influences, any visit to France without a pitstop in Strasbourg is an opportunity wasted. Marvel at the near-whimsical Christmas market and, for lovers of exquisite architecture, its Gothic cathedral is a must.

Marseille

A city with a certain grittiness and industrial vibe, Marseille is the gift that keeps on giving with its rich history and vibrant nightlife. There’s so much to fill your itinerary with here, from touring the Notre Dame de la Garde to treating your tastebuds to freshly caught fish. 

Palace of Versailles

If you travel to France and skip visiting the Palace of Versailles, did you even really go? A testimony to the height of French power before the revolution, this extravagant palace is the second-most popular attraction in the country for good reason.

Grand Tour of France 

14 Days

Indulge in the highlights of France as you tour the country.

Paris – Honfleur – Amboise – Dordogne – Carcassonne – Arles – Gorges du Verdon – The Alps – Nancy – Verdun

The Tastes of Eastern France 

12 Days

Delicious and active, experience the best of Eastern France. 

Lyon – Beaujolais – Vauxrenard – Fleurie – Chiroubles – Beaujeu – Beaune

A Cultural Odyssey of France 

14 Days

Immerse yourself in France’s cultural scene with this diverse tour of the country.

Saumur – St-Émilion – St-Jean-Pied-de-Port – Béziers – Bandol – Châteauneuf-du-Pape – Beaune – Colmar – Épernay

Iconic Landscapes of France 

14 Days

Discover the enchanting landscapes that make France a visual treat.

Falaises d’Étretat – Volcans d’Auvergne – Grande Cascade de Gavarnie – Gorge de l’Ardèche – Golfe de Porto – Gorges du Verdon – Mer de Glace

Vallee du Loir 

Don’t confuse Vallee du Loir with the Loire Valley; this hidden gem deserves your undivided attention. While it seems like the little brother of the latter, its charm is personified in the many castles and manors you’ll find here.

Le Mans

Best known as the host of the 24-hour Le Mans motor race, there’s a lot more to Le Mans. Aside from exploring the Le Mans museum, its Old Town and Gothic cathedral are must-visits.

Jura

What could possibly be the quietest corner of France, Jura, delivers a calm and serene vibe akin to no other. Expect to see rolling vineyards, vast lakes, majestic waterfalls, and mysterious caves.

Hauts de France

If the name doesn’t ring a bell, good. The north of France is a jewel hidden in plain sight. Within the white sands of the Opal Coast await thriving cities like Lille and Amiens – two cultural hotspots (for those in the know).

Dishes to try

Crêpes – Very thin pancakes in sweet and savoury flavours.

Boeuf Bourguignon – Beef stew braised in red wine.

Duck Confit – Leg of duck, salted and seasoned with herbs.

Foie Gras – Duck or goose liver served as pâté or as a mousse.

Drinks to try

Pernod – Anise flavoured pastis

Expect to spend between £115 and £128 / $142 and $158 per day per person travelling in France on a mid-range basis. Add £135 / $167 if you’re travelling on a luxury basis.

Average Daily Costs 

• Hotel 
  • Mid-Range – £34 and £55 / $42 and $68
  • Luxury – £94 and £400 / $116 and $550
• Food – £35 and £73 / $43 and $90
• Public Transport – £21 and £42 / $26 and $52
• Attractions – £21 and £35 / $26 and $43
• Tours – £29 and £89 / $35 and $109 (for more expansive tours, expect to pay up to £189 / $231) 

Safety

When visiting France, the likelihood of being the victim of violent crimes is very low, but you need to be aware of things like petty theft. 

Pickpocketing is on the rise at train stations, and in the south, be cautious of driving at night as there are fake police scams.

Health

You don’t need any vaccinations when travelling to France. The French healthcare system is excellent, but there is an upfront charge for all medical services.

The major concerns you should be aware of are sunburn or an upset stomach. Tap water in France is perfectly safe to drink.

Tipping

Tipping in France isn’t an obligation. In fine-dining establishments, you can add a 5% tip. At casual dining spots, tip around 3%. 

Tips for travelling

1. Make an effort to speak to locals in French, even if you don’t speak it well; it shows a commitment, and the worst thing is it will spark up a pleasant conversation.
2. Locals frown upon speaking about money, so try and avoid it.
3. Order from the “prix fixe” menu to save some money at restaurants.
4. Keep loose change at hand, as you’ll have to pay to use most public bathroom facilities in France.
5. Each and every museum in Paris has no admission charge on the first Sunday of the month, so plan your visits around that.

How to see the best for free

Concerned about your budget while you travel to France? Include some free tours or excursions to save yourself some money.

Head outdoors to explore some public spaces in France, such as the Luxembourg Gardens or Promenade des Anglais.

Or visit some famous landmarks that don’t charge admission, including Sacre-Coeur and the neighbourhood of Montmartre.

Packing

Packing for your France trip? Don’t forget… 

• Keep your essentials in one place and bring your travel backpack.
• Depending on your itinerary, pack your casual sandals or hiking trainers.
• There’s a lot to see in France, so don’t forget your camera.
• Your casual trainers for exploring cities and towns.

Travel insurance

Even when heading for a paradise playground and global tourist destination like France, ensuring you’ve got the proper insurance is paramount. Ensure you’re covered for potential medical expenses, loss due to crime and trip cancellations.

Suggested guidebooks

• Lonely Planet France
• Fodor’s Essential France
• DK Eyewitness France

Interesting facts

• French locals can ask permission from the president to marry a dead person posthumously.
• The French military still uses carrier pigeons.
• Locals and visitors eat roughly 25,000 tons of snails annually in France.
• The cathedral in Metz has the largest surface of stained glass windows in the world.

Handy phrases

Hello – “Bonjour”

Yes – “Oui”

No – “Non”

Please – “S’il vous plaît”

Thank You – “Merci”

How Much Is – “C’est combien?”

Excuse Me – “Excusez-moi”

My Name Is – “Je m’appelle”

Time zone

The country follows Central European Time (GMT +1). France observes daylight savings with clock adjustments as GMT +2.

Electricity and adapters

France’s electricity comes in at 230V and 50Hz, while the general plug types are C and E. Regardless, it’s always a good idea to invest in a universal travel adapter.