France is one of the world’s most picturesque countries, and that’s precisely why many people dream of visiting here. It has scrumptious food and wine options, famous landmarks like Eiffel Tower, not to mention world-class museums.
Imagine strolling through the lovely streets of Paris, or perhaps, cruising around the French Riviera. Indeed, France is a destination you should see at least once!
Valid Passport and Visa
Since you’ll be traveling to another country, you need to make sure you have your passport with you. Double-check the expiry date of your passport and ensure that it remains valid for at least six months beyond your arrival and departure date in France.
Besides a valid passport, you may also need a visa. If you’re a citizen of the United States, you no longer need to apply for a visa since you can enter the Schengen countries visa-free and stay for up to 90 days. Some other nationalities can also enter France without the need of a visa. Refer to the “EU visa agreements” to know more about this.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential when traveling, regardless of where you will go. It will cover you for any unexpected events, such as medical emergencies. Having insurance gives you peace of mind at the thought that you are covered in case something happens.
Remember, accidents can happen at the most unexpected time. While France has reliable healthcare, it can be pretty expensive. But if you’re insured, you won’t have to worry about hefty medical costs should you require medical assistance while in France.
Mobile Connectivity
To make it easier for you to navigate France, you need a mobile connection when traveling to the country. You also need it to communicate and for other important things, such as booking a ride. While Wi-Fi is readily available at airports, hotels, and some restaurants, some public places do not give you access to the Internet.
Therefore, to stay connected, get a local SIM card once you arrive in France. If your mobile home provider has international roaming plans, you can also take advantage of that. Another option is to bring portable Wi-FI hotspots.
Credit Cards and Cash
When it comes to paying for your purchases in France, you can rely on credit cards and cash. Most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops, accept credit cards. Using cards is also a smart idea when making large purchases.
Still, it’s important to carry some euros with you. Small stores and street vendors will only accept cash. Also, when going to rural areas, many establishments there do not have the option to accept cards. It will also come in handy when giving tips.
Eiffel Tower, Paris
No visit to France is ever complete without visiting its most famous landmark – the Eiffel Tower. The iconic structure stands at 1,083 feet tall, dominating Paris and boasting exceptional views! I was constructed during the World’s Fair in 1889 and has been a symbol of France since then.
For excellent views of the city, take an elevator to the observation decks. There you would be able to see other landmarks on clear days, such as the Seine River and the Arc de Triomphe. The tower is even more spectacular at night when it sparkles with vibrant lights every hour.
Louvre Museum, Paris
The Louvre Museum in Paris is another must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to France. Dubbed the biggest and most famous art museum in the world, it holds an enormous collection of more than 35,000 art pieces, including the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.
The architecture of the museum is an art itself, with its fascinating facade! Every room in the Louvre has a story to tell and the incredible artistry that surrounds it is just impressive. Besides the art collections, the glass pyramid entrance also makes a great backdrop for photo-ops.
Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Normandy is a picturesque French region home to one of the most iconic landmarks in France, the Mont Saint-Michel. Sitting on a rocky island, this Gothic abbey is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is surrounded by dramatic tidal waters. It rises above the village and boasts incredible views and rich history. The island is fully isolated during high tide, which adds to the allure of Mont Saint-Michel.
On your visit of Mont Saint-Michel, take the time to explore the island’s cobblestone streets lined with shops and cozy cafés. Get inside the abbey and marvel at its intricate details, or climb to the top for panoramic views of the bay. The surrounding tidal flats boast breathtaking scenery and are a great spot for photography.
Palace of Versailles, Versailles
The Palace of Versailles has magnificent rooms full of art and history. Each piece tells a unique story. The expansive gardens are also a highlight, with a picturesque setting, perfect for a relaxing stroll. There are also fascinating sculptures and beautiful fountains that are sure to impress visitors! Don’t miss the Trianon palaces, where the royal family once sought refuge from court life.
French Riviera
Lyon
For foodies traveling to France, Lyon is a great place to visit. In fact, it’s the culinary capital of France! This is where you can enjoy authentic flavors of French cuisine.
Head to the iconic market of Lyon called the Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, a fun place to start your food journey. There are endless amounts of delicious treats to indulge in here – from heaps of pastries to local cheeses and meats!
Lyon is also known for its many great restaurants. One that stands out is the Bouchon Les Lyonnais. This local restaurant specializes in classic Lyonnaise dishes, such as quenelles and coq au vin.
Paris
Paris definitely stands out for having some of the best dining spots in France. The best place to experience the city’s local food scene is at Marché des Enfants Rouges, the oldest covered market in the city. There are stalls here selling fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and the tastiest French street foods. Marché d’Aligre is also worth a stop. The lively local market sells local produce and the freshest seafood!
Paris is known for its fantastic restaurants and Michelin-starred venues. Celebrating an anniversary or birthday? Then book a reservation at Le Comptoir du Relais. The cozy bistro takes basic French fare like duck confit and foie gras to a whole new level. It’s located at the heart of the lively neighborhood Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
Provence
Provence is another region in France best known for its food. Its local cuisine is made from fresh ingredients, featuring local Mediterranean flavors. What’s more – the region has plenty of vibrant markets to experience the authentic flavors of Provencal cuisine.
One of the most popular markets to visit here is Aix-en-Provence Market. From cheese to olives and local honey – you will find all of them here! Saint-Rémy-de-Provence Market is also worth checking out, which has long displays of seasonal fruits, veggies, herbs, and fresh bread.
Bordeaux may be best known for its wine, but this is another place to experience the authentic flavor of French cuisine. It also has its share of vibrant local markets, such as the Marché des Capucins, a lively place full of fresh seafood, cheeses, and local pastries. Of course, you’ll find stalls selling local wine, too!
And if you’re feeling fancy, treat yourself to a lovely meal at Le Chapon Fin, one of Bordeaux’s oldest restaurants. The menu of this Michelin-starred spot is inspired by traditional French cuisine. Every meal is complemented with a delectable glass of Bordeaux wine.
Outdoor Adventures
France is also a haven for outdoor adventures. The country has a varied landscape that serves as a playground for fun adventures. In the French Alps, you’ll find stunning trails, perfect for hiking in the summer. But if you’re here for the winter, there are world-class ski resorts in the Alps to indulge in winter sports!
France is best known for cycling, being host to The Tour de France, a prestigious bicycle race. There are many great places across the country to enjoy cycling, including the picturesque Loire Valley. Here, cycling routes will lead to charming villages and majestic chateaux. If you want more thrills, then challenge yourself to a rock climbing adventure at Gorges du Verdon!
Sports
Sports fanatics will surely have a blast in France. From skiing in the Alps to mountain biking in the Pyrenees – there are endless sports to enjoy in France. If you happen to be here in the warmer months, you can try paragliding or mountain biking in the Alps. Or better yet, head to the Atlantic Coast for water sports, such as surfing in Biarritz.
Since the French love football, catching a live game here is a must, especially for football fans. You can watch a live Ligue 1 in Lyon or Paris. In Gorges du Verdon, you can try water-based sports like kayaking, jet-skiing, standup paddle boarding, and more!
Cultural Experiences
France is rich in culture, and there are many ways for visitors to immerse in the local culture here. In Paris, visit famous museums like Musée d’Orsay and the Louvre. Wander around its charming neighborhoods and stop by iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Notre-Dame Cathedral. Meanwhile, art lovers should check out Montmartre to admire the exceptional art displays.
Wander around the Versailles Palace, which serves as the symbol of French royalty. Venture into the Provence region, and explore places like Avignon, which is home to Palais des Papes. Witness music and theater performances on festivals like Festival d’Avignon. To learn about the life of French royals, tour the majestic chateaux of the Loire Valley.
Entertainment Options
There’s always something fun going on in France. With plenty of entertainment options across the country, there is something for every visitor to enjoy here. Catch the famous Moulin Rouge Show or witness a live performance at the Opéra Garnier. For a fun night out with friends, check out the lively bars and clubs at the vibrant Marais district.
Do you love theme parks? Visit Disneyland Paris for a magical day of rides and parades! In the south of France, head to Cannes to see your favorite stars gather for the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. Those into sports should catch a Ligue 1 football match or the French Open tennis tournament at Roland Garros.
When is the best time to visit France?
While France is generally a great place to visit anytime of the year, the best time to visit here depends on what you are looking for. If you wish to enjoy sightseeing, come here in spring (April to June). During this time, you can enjoy pleasant weather, which makes outdoor sightseeing more enjoyable. Fall (September to October) is also an ideal time for sightseeing in France. Those who want to enjoy skiing and other winter sports in the French Alps, winter would understandably be a great time to visit, which is from December to March.
What is the best way to travel around France?
France boasts an exceptional high-speed train network known as TGV. Taking this train is the best way to travel around the country, as it connects to major cities. If you want to explore rural areas, getting a rental car would be a smart idea. In big cities like Paris, you can rely on public transportation, such as metros, trams, and buses.
Is it safe to travel to France?
Generally, France is safe. However, as with most tourist destinations, you could become a victim of pickpockets if you are not careful. This is especially the case in crowded areas. So, always be aware of your surroundings when visiting these places. You should also keep yourself updated on the local news and advisories, especially if there are political protests, which can happen in big cities like Paris.
