France Travel Guide
France is the world's most-visited country for good reason: Paris with its art and architecture, the blue Mediterranean coast of the Riviera, the fairytale châteaux of the Loire Valley, and the sun-drenched lavender fields of Provence. Every corner has a story, every restaurant a reason to stay.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April–June)
Paris is magical in spring. Gardens in bloom, pleasant weather, fewer crowds than summer.
Summer (July–August)
The Riviera at its peak. Paris gets very busy. Many French head to the coast.
Autumn (September–October)
Mild temperatures, autumn colours, thinner crowds. Best for Loire Valley and Provence.
Top Destinations
Paris
Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Montmartre, pavement cafés. Allow at least 3 nights to barely scratch the surface.
Nice & the Riviera
Blue Mediterranean water, colourful Old Town alleyways, with Cannes and Monaco just down the coast.
Loire Valley
Over 300 châteaux along this valley. Chambord, Chenonceau and Amboise are the most spectacular. Cycle between them.
Provence
Summer lavender fields, markets in stone villages, Avignon and Arles. France at its most relaxed.
Lyon
France's gastronomic capital. Traditional bouchons (local restaurants), UNESCO old town and the spectacular Festival of Lights in December.
Getting Around
TGV High-Speed Train
TGV connects major cities fast. Paris to Lyon in 2 hours, to Nice in 5. Book ahead for cheapest fares.
Paris Métro
One of the world's best metro systems. Navigo card for longer stays, t+ tickets for short trips.
Car
Essential for Loire Valley, Provence and rural villages. Roads are excellent; parking in big cities is expensive.
Budget Guide
Budget
$60–90/day- Paris hostel
- Bakery and supermarket meals
- Metro pass
- Free parks and exterior Eiffel Tower
Mid-range
$120–180/day- 3-star hotel
- Local bistro
- TGV intercity rail
- Louvre and a few museums
Comfortable
$250+/day- Boutique hotel or apartment
- Michelin-starred dinner
- Private tour
- Car hire
Travel Tips
Book the Louvre online in advance — the queue without a reservation is brutal.
French people appreciate any attempt at French — even a simple 'bonjour' makes a difference.
Supermarkets and bakeries are the cheapest option for breakfast and lunch.
Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but carry a little cash for markets and small vendors.
The Paris Métro runs until midnight; after that, night buses take over.
Tap water (une carafe d'eau) is free at all restaurants — just ask.
Heading to France?
Got questions or want to share your experience? I'd love to hear from you.
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