France

The Beginners Travel Guide to France provides a comprehensive overview of practical information, fascinating destinations to explore, optimal travel seasons, noteworthy festivals, and the latest articles.

France, a country that has charmed travellers for centuries, awaits your visit! Immerse yourself in its captivating history, marvel at its breathtaking landscapes, and embrace the French culture. From small villages to the grand cities, France offers endless possibilities.

Renowned as one of the most romantic destinations in the world, it’s a dream getaway for couples seeking love and adventure. Yet, France welcomes solo travellers and friends with open arms, promising diverse experiences that will create lifelong memories.

Indulge your passions, whether it’s exploring art and architecture, savouring exquisite cuisine and fine wine, go on thrilling outdoor escapades, or simply immersing yourself in the French way of life. With an efficient transportation system, you can easily travel between multiple regions in one unforgettable journey.

The true allure lies in the French “joie de vivre“, an compelling zest for life that fills every corner. Picture yourself sipping coffee at a charming sidewalk cafe, meandering through local markets, and being captivated by the breathtaking vistas of the countryside. France beckons you with its undeniable charm and beauty.

Interesting places to visit

Paris

No visit to France is complete without experiencing the magic of Paris. This metropolitan city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and romance. From iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral to world-class museums such as the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, Paris has something for everyone. Stroll along the charming streets of Montmartre, shop at designer boutiques on Champs-Élysées, and indulge in delicious French cuisine. There is never a dull moment in the City of Lights.

Nice

Located on the French Riviera, Nice is a picturesque city with a beautiful coastline, vibrant markets, and a laid-back Mediterranean vibe. Take a stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais, explore the charming Old Town, or relax on one of Nice’s many beaches. Don’t miss out on visiting the Colline du Château for stunning views of the city and the sea. With its warm climate, picturesque setting, and delicious cuisine, Nice is a must-visit destination in France.

Bordeaux

Known as the wine capital of the world, Bordeaux is a charming city located in southwestern France. Apart from its famous vineyards and delicious wine, this historic port city boasts stunning architecture, including the iconic Place de la Bourse and Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux. Take a stroll along the Garonne River, visit one of the many museums, or take a wine tour and learn about the process of winemaking. With its rich history, delicious food, and laid-back atmosphere, Bordeaux will leave you wanting more.

Lyon

Located in eastern France between two rivers: the Rhône and Saône. Lyon is a city that often gets overlooked by tourists but has so much to offer. Considered the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon is a food lover’s paradise with its traditional bouchon restaurants and delicious Lyonnais cuisine. The city also has stunning architecture, including the famous Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and the Palais de Justice. Explore the charming Old Town, stroll through one of Lyon’s many parks, or take a boat tour along the rivers for a unique perspective of this beautiful city.

Provence

Located in southern France, Provence is a region famous for its picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and delicious food. Visit the lavender fields in bloom during the summer months or explore one of the many quaint towns such as Aix-en-Provence or Avignon. With its warm climate and Mediterranean influence, Provence is also known for its delicious cuisine, such as ratatouille and bouillabaisse.

Strasbourg

Located on the border between France and Germany, Strasbourg is a unique city that has a mix of both French and German influences. The city is filled with charming architecture, such as the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral and the picturesque Petite France district. Strasbourg is also home to many European institutions, making it an important cultural and political hub. Take a boat tour through the canals, sample some delicious cuisine, or visit one of the many Christmas markets during the holiday season. Strasbourg is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of both French and German culture.

Festivals & holidays

France is a country with rich culture, history and traditions. Its festivals and holidays are an integral part of French life and provide a glimpse into the diverse cultural heritage of the country. From lively celebrations to religious observances, there is always something happening in France.

National Holidays

There are 11 official national holidays in France, known as “jours fériés“. These include:

New Year’s Day
Easter Monday
Labor Day (May 1st)
Victory in Europe Day (May 8th)
Ascension Day
Pentecost Monday
Bastille Day (July 14th)
Assumption of Mary (August 15th)
All Saints’ Day (November 1st)
Armistice Day (November 11th)
Christmas Day

On these days, most businesses, schools and government offices are closed. It’s a time for families and friends to gather together and celebrate.

Festivals

France is known for its lively festivals that take place throughout the year. Some of the popular ones include:

Cannes Film Festival: This prestigious event is held annually in the city of Cannes. It showcases new and upcoming films from around the world and attracts top celebrities, filmmakers and industry professionals.

Avignon Festival: One of the oldest festivals in France, this event celebrates theatre, dance and music. It takes place every July in the city of Avignon and features a variety of performances, both indoors and outdoors.

Nice Carnival: Held in the city of Nice, this carnival is one of the largest and most famous in the world. It features colourful parades, music, street performances and grand fireworks displays.

Fête de la Musique: On June 21st every year, France celebrates its love for music with free concerts held all over the country. This festival was initiated by the French Ministry of Culture in 1982 and has become a global phenomenon, with over 120 countries now participating.

La Fête Nationale: Also known as Bastille Day, this festival commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison during the French Revolution. It is celebrated on July 14th with military parades, fireworks and parties.

Religious Celebrations

France is a predominantly Catholic country, and therefore has many religious celebrations throughout the year. Some of the most important ones are:

Easter: This holiday is celebrated with great enthusiasm in France, with special church services and traditional meals like roast lamb and chocolate eggs.

La Fête de la Saint-Jean: Also known as the Feast of St John, this celebration takes place on June 24th to honour the birth of Saint John the Baptist. It is marked with bonfires, music and dancing.

La Toussaint: On November 1st, France celebrates All Saints’ Day by visiting cemeteries, placing flowers on graves and lighting candles for loved ones who have passed away.

Christmas: This holiday is celebrated with family gatherings, special meals and the exchange of gifts on December 25th. French people also have their own unique traditions like the Yule log cake and leaving shoes out for Père Noël (Father Christmas) to fill with treats.

Practical info

Currency: Euro €

ATM: There are a few things you should know about ATM’s in France before your trip. First, many ATMs in France only accept four-digit PIN numbers, so make sure your PIN is set to four digits before you go. Some ATMs may also have a limit on the amount of cash you can withdraw at one time.

Secondly, be aware that some banks in France may charge a fee for using their ATM if you are not a customer of that bank. To avoid these fees, try to find an ATM that belongs to your bank’s network.

Another important thing to keep in mind is the currency conversion rate. ATMs will typically give you the option to withdraw cash in either Euros or your home currency. However, the exchange rate may be more favourable if you choose to withdraw in Euros.

It’s also a good idea to notify your bank of your travel plans before you leave. This will prevent them from flagging any international transactions as potential fraud and freezing your account. You can usually do this through your bank’s website or by calling their customer service line.

Lastly, be cautious when using ATMs in popular tourist areas. Scammers may try to install skimming devices to steal your card information and PIN. To avoid this, use ATMs located inside banks or in well-lit, busy areas.

Languages: French

Religion: 50% Christianity, 33% no religion, 4% Islam, 2% Buddhism and 1% Judaism

Capital city: Paris

Visa:

Visa Exemptions: Citizens of certain countries are exempt from obtaining a visa for short stays in France (less than 90 days). These include citizens of the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA), as well as citizens of Switzerland, Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, the United States and several other countries.

Schengen Visa: If you are not eligible for a visa exemption, you will need to apply for a Schengen Visa. This type of visa allows you to travel to and within 26 countries in the Schengen area, including France. You can apply for a Schengen Visa at the France embassy or consulate in your home country.

Local SIM Card:

When you’re travelling to France, getting a Simcard is essential for staying connected and having access to data. There are several providers that offer different plans and prices, so it’s important to do some research before making a decision. Some of the most popular providers in France include Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free Mobile.

To get a Simcard, you can either purchase it at the airport or from one of the provider’s retail stores. You will need to provide a valid ID, such as your passport, and pay for the Simcard and any additional fees.

Once you have your Simcard, you can choose from various plans depending on your needs. Some providers offer prepaid plans with a set amount of data and minutes, while others offer monthly plans with unlimited data and minutes. It’s important to consider your usage and budget when choosing a plan.

Country Code: +33

Time:(GMT+1) Central European Standard Time

Official Tourism Website: Get information about what to see and places to visit via the official Tourism website of France, Explore France.

Practical info: A long-term trip or holiday can be quite a challenge. Where does one even begin? How can you access the most relevant information? Look no further! Check out the articles below. Starting with the comprehensive “Ultimate Guide for Planning a Long-term Journey.” This guide is immensely helpful, even if you’re just planning a two-week holiday. Additionally, we’ll walk you through creating a travel budget, crafting a practical packing list (avoiding overpacking, of course), and even share some of our favourite travel apps. Bon voyage!.

Sustainable travel: Sustainable travel, also known as responsible or eco-friendly travel, is a type of tourism that aims to have a positive impact on the environment, society and economy. It involves making conscious choices and taking actions to minimize any negative effects on the destinations we visit.

Cultural travel: Cultural immersion is about fully experiencing and engaging with the local culture. It goes beyond mere observation and learning about traditions, customs, and beliefs. It involves active participation, such as trying new cuisines, attending cultural events or festivals, learning the language, and interacting with locals. By embracing this experience, one can truly appreciate and understand the richness of different cultures.

Public Transport

France is known for its excellent culture and history. The country has an efficient and well-connected public transport system. Whether you are traveling to the busy cities or exploring the countryside, there is an extensive network of trains, buses, metros, trams, and other modes of transportation to get you where you need to go.

Train Travel

France’s national railway system, known as SNCF (Société nationale des chemins de fer français), offers high-speed trains, intercity trains, and regional trains. The most popular high-speed train is the TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse), which can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h (200 mph). These trains connect major cities and can get you from Paris to Marseille in just over 3 hours. Intercity trains are a bit slower but still offer comfortable and affordable options for traveling between cities. Regional trains, known as TER (Transport Express Régional), are perfect for exploring the smaller towns and villages.

Metro and Tram

France’s major cities have efficient metro systems, making it easy to get around within the city. Paris, Lyon, Marseille, and Toulouse have extensive metro networks that connect all corners of the city. Strasbourg also has a modern tram system that runs throughout the city center.

Bus Travel

Buses are a popular mode of transportation for both short and long-distance travel in France. FlixBus, Ouibus, and Eurolines are some of the popular bus companies that offer affordable and convenient options for traveling between cities in France, as well as to other European countries.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Taxis can be found in most major cities in France, but they can be expensive. A more budget-friendly option is ride-sharing with apps like Uber or BlaBlaCar. These apps allow you to share rides with other travelers going in the same direction, making it a more affordable and social option for getting around.

Renting a Car

If you want the freedom to explore at your own pace, renting a car is a great option. However, keep in mind that driving in big cities like Paris can be hectic, so it may be best to stick to smaller towns and villages. You will also need an international driver’s license in order to rent a car in France.

Cycling

Cycling is becoming increasingly popular in France, especially in cities like Paris where there are dedicated bicycle lanes. Many major cities have bike-sharing programs, making it easy to rent a bike for short trips. There are also plenty of scenic bike routes throughout the country, such as the famous Loire Valley and Provence regions.

Walking

One of the best ways to truly experience France is on foot. Most cities have well-preserved historic centers that are perfect for leisurely strolls. You can also take guided walking tours to learn more about the history and culture of the city you are visiting. Additionally, there are many hiking trails in the French countryside that offer stunning views and a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Best time to go

If you are planning a trip to France, you may be wondering when is the best time to go. While every season in France has its own unique charm, there are certain times of the year that are ideal for travelers.

Spring and summer

The two most popular seasons for visiting France are spring and summer. Springtime in France is from March to May and it is a beautiful time to visit. The weather is mild, flowers are in bloom and the countryside comes alive with vibrant colours.

In the spring, you can also experience some of the biggest festivals in France such as Fête de la Musique, where free music concerts take over the streets of Paris. Or got to Les Nuits Sonores, an electronic music festival held in Lyon.

Summer in France is from June to August and it’s when the country truly comes alive. The warm weather brings people outside, bustling with energy and activities. It’s a great time to explore the beautiful beaches of the French Riviera or enjoy outdoor markets and festivals.

Winter

If you are more interested in winter sports, then December to February is the best time to visit. The French Alps are a popular destination during this time, offering excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

Autumn

For those looking for a quieter and less crowded experience, the fall months of September to November can be a great time to visit. The weather is still pleasant and there are many autumn festivals such as wine harvest celebrations and truffle markets.

No matter when you choose to visit France, there will always be something unique and special to experience. From the picturesque countryside to the bustling cities, France is a destination that can be enjoyed all year round. So pack your bags, grab a croissant and start planning your dream trip to France!

In the worlds jungle

An architectural, historical, and cultural travel blog.