The Only France Travel Guide You Will Ever Need

France is indisputably one of the most visited countries in Europe. With travellers flocking in from across the world to explore this fascinating destination steadfast on cultural norms and packed with iconic landmarks, it is no surprise that more uniquely curated France tour packages are gaining popularity each year. For Indians too, France is a much sought after destination for international holidays, more so because of its sophisticated reputation and love for culture.

Enchanting as it is, France however, is packed with an overwhelming number of attractions. Starting from world-famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower to exotic culinary indulgences and serene countryside landscapes, the country is home to a host of must-see destinations that can be challenging to navigate over a few days.

To ease your decision-making and get a smoother start on your French holiday, here is a comprehensive France travel guide covering everything from the best things to do, places to see, and more.

Important Things to Know Before Going to France

France is a country that holds its cultural norms and practices close to its heart. For the same reason, it is important to understand some of its traditions and general etiquette before you visit, so that you can enjoy a pleasant experience. Not paying attention to some of these norms can not only invite unpleasant interactions, but also lead the French to perceive you as rude.

Starting this France travel guide with some crucial things to know before going to France, in terms of cultural etiquette.

• Be sure to read up on France tourist laws thoroughly before you visit. Carry your passport and photo ID at all times so that you can show it to the French police, if or when they request it.
• Learn a few basic words and phrases in French, like hello (bonjour) and goodbye (aurevoir). This can go a long way in being perceived as a friendly tourist.
• Always greet when meeting someone, especially when you walk into a shop or a restaurant with “bonjour” or “bonsoir”. Exchange air kisses with people you know well.
• Do not leave any place without saying goodbye.
• France is not entirely paperless; make sure to carry cash, especially when visiting the countryside.
• Plan your itinerary around store opening hours. Make an effort to learn the opening hours of the stores you intend to visit.
• Learn basic French table etiquette so that you will not accidentally offend the chefs and waiters in a restaurant.

Keeping in mind these basics can help you navigate the country more efficiently and make more pleasant memories from your French trip.

Also Read: France Visa For Indians: Requirements, Eligibility, And How to Apply

Best Things to Do in France

One of the best things about visiting France is that it brings an array of exquisite and iconic experiences. Whether it is sightseeing, going on wine tasting tours or food tours, taking day trips, or simply walking around the streets, every experience gives you something to cherish.

Next on this France travel guide is a list of the top 10 best things to do in France.

Visit the iconic Eiffel Tower

Visiting the Eiffel Tower is a no-brainer when it comes to the best things to do in France. Tour the monument, learn all about its construction and history in the second-floor museum, and climb to the top to witness sweeping views of the city. Seeing this legendary Parisian landmark is undoubtedly one of the best experiences in France.

Spend a day at the Louvre Museum

Visit the world-famous Louvre Museum and see some of the greatest artworks of all time. Admire the artefacts, medieval boats, walls, royal galleries, and more. Exploring this gem of a museum will let you learn more about the country’s rich history and culture.

Let Mont Saint-Michel take your breath away

Mont-Saint Michel is a stunning tidal island and commune in France, that is as picture-perfect as a postcard. Visit the place to admire lush green landscapes, the Benedictine abbey, and serene river views. Pause, and take a moment to let the setting register in your fondest memories.

Also Read: 10 Unobvious Things to Know Before Visiting France

Spend a night in a French Château

Staying in a traditional French Château would perhaps be one of the best, quintessentially French things to do in the country. Choose from more than 40,000 authentic and well-preserved properties from around France, and indulge in the rich gardens and serene settings to unlock a core memory.

Explore the Loire Valley on a bike

The Loire Valley is one of the most beautiful places in France, and in all of Europe. And La Loire à Vélo, or The Loire by Bike is one among the best things to do in France, especially for bike lovers. It is a unique scenic 800 km bike trail that connects Nevers to Saint Brevin-Les-Pins in the Atlantic Ocean. Tourists choose this exciting bike adventure to explore the stunning valley, and its various medieval towns, Renaissance châteaux, and the exceptional wines it is home to.

Admire the lavender fields of Provence

The lavender fields of Provence are one of the most spectacular things to see in France. Explore the Luberon Valley, and Sault Plateau which is famous for its “blue gold”, quaint small towns, and endearing lavender distilleries. If you plan your France tour around the blooming seasons, you are in for a stunning visual treat.

Spend sunny days in the French Riviera

The French Riviera or Côte d’Azur, is famous for being one of the most beautiful places to visit in France. Carrying an abundance of warmth and sunshine, the place is home to several alluring destinations like Nice – the capital of the region, Antibes, Cannes, Saint Tropez, and many hilltop villages. Book your accommodation at one of the best hotels in Nice, and visit these charming stops over a calming few days.

Go on a food tour in Lyon

A travel guide to France would be incomplete without a mention of its culinary capital – Lyon. Here, the French take food to another level. Home to an array of exceptional restaurants and cafes, including Michelin-star gems, Lyon is the perfect place to indulge in the best of French cuisine. The place hosts several top-rated food tours as well. Join one of these exquisite initiatives to explore the best of traditional, local food in Lyon.

Taste some of the world’s best wines along the Burgundy trail

Route des Grands Crus, in Bourgogne is one of the most famous wine trails in the world. This exquisite trail route connecting the “capital of Burgundy wines” – Beaune with Dijon, plays home to several wine-making centers, the best of which let you taste the iconic Burgundy wines of France. The place also has many picturesque small towns and scenic landscapes, making it perfect for a road trip, especially for wine lovers.

Explore the perfume capital of the world

Grasse, a small town in Provence, is known to be the perfume capital of the world. The Musée International de la Parfumerie is the best place to learn all about the art of perfume making in France. Visit one of the town’s factories, and create your own essence, to carry a personalized souvenir home, the fragrance of which will forever take you back to your exciting France tour.

These top 10 curated best things to do in France often find a place in the best France travel guides online. Create the perfect itinerary using these recommendations to enjoy a wholesome France tour.

Also Read: France Beyond Paris: 5 Beautiful French Villages Every Indian Must Visit

The Best Time to Visit France

The best time to visit France is typically during the spring season from April to June or July, and during the fall season from September to November. 

During the summer months, France experiences pleasant weather conditions with ample sunshine, beautiful blooming flowers, and fewer tourists when compared to summer. Most attractions remain open during these seasons with set timings, depending on regional preferences. This makes it the perfect time for sightseeing and outdoor activities like hiking. 

The fall season on the other hand brings stunning autumn foliage along with a slew of local festivals. The season is perfect for wine tasting tours and sightseeing.

If you wish to go skiing in the French Alps, winter is the best season to visit France. During this time, France comes alive with festive lights, Christmas markets, and more. The famous Lyon Festival of Lights, and the Christmas markets in Strasbourg and Alsace are some of the most exciting experiences.

Hence, the best month to visit France depends on the kind of vacation you wish to have. Each season brings unique experiences that you will not find anywhere else.

Wrapping Up: The Ultimate France Travel Guide

Every bit as dreamy as literature makes it seem, France is a magical destination for travellers. Brimming with stunning landscapes, iconic landmarks, exotic food, cultural indulgences, and more, the country has an overwhelming number of attractions. To visit France and navigate the country, you inevitably need expert direction.

Use this ultimate France tour guide filled with practical tips, must-see France travel recommendations, best things to do, and more to curate your personalized itinerary for France. Book cheap flights to Paris, and obtain your France visa with a reliable provider of online services for 180+ countries for a hassle free trip.

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Quick Summary – Your Comprehensive France Travel Guide

France is a country that embraces its culture. It is also an enchanting country brimming with several iconic landmarks, countryside landscapes, food, and more. To navigate your journey and ensure a pleasant France tour, you inevitably need a comprehensive France travel guide. When visiting France, be sure to pay attention to common cultural practices and traditions. To capture the essence of the country, be sure to indulge in the 10 best things to do in France. Make sure to plan your trip around the best time to visit France, during spring or summer seasons as well.

FAQs

What to know when travelling to France?

A few important things to know when travelling to France are:

• Have a good grip on tourist laws in France
• Carry your ID at all times
• Learn some basic French 
• Make sure to greet when meeting someone
• Do not leave without saying goodbye
• Learn basic French table etiquette
• Work around France’s shop opening hours
• Carry cash, especially when visiting the French countryside

How many days are enough to visit France?

7 days to 10 days is considered a good amount of time to explore France’s most prominent attractions and experiences. You will find many well-curated 7-day and 10-day France tour packages online.

What is the best month to visit France?

The best months to visit France are in the Spring and Fall seasons. From April to June in spring and from September to November in fall, the country experiences pleasant weather, with enough sunshine for sightseeing, fewer crowds, and exceptional natural attractions.

Where to go in France for the first time?

If you are going on a short week-long trip to France for the first time, consider visiting Paris, Lyon, the Loire Valley, and Normandy for a holistic French experience.

Is 3 full days in Paris enough?

Yes, 3 days in Paris is sufficient time to explore its landmarks, enjoy the food, and indulge in local exploration.

What is the #1 tourist attraction in France?

The Eiffel Tower of Paris, the Louvre Museum and the Palace of Versailles are some of the most important tourist attractions in France.

What is famous in Paris to buy?

Paris is known to be an exceptional luxury shopping destination. Some things you can buy in Paris include:

• Original French perfumes
• French wines and champagne
• Miniatures of the Eiffel Tower
• Croissants, Macarons, and Creme Brulee
• French designer goods including handbags, shoes, and clothes
• Artisan cheese varieties
• Original French beauty products

What is Bordeaux famous for?

Bordeaux is most famous for the world-renowned Bordeaux wines. It is also known for its well-preserved 18th century architecture.

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