France

France Travel Guide Contents

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About France · Quick Facts · Highlights of France · Things to Do · Travel Tips · Paris Travel Guides · French Riviera Travel Guides · All France Articles

About France

France is a country located in Western Europe known for its romantic cities, stunning countryside, world-famous cuisine, and rich history.

France is a country with a diverse range of attractions and experiences that cater to all types of travelers. However, those interested in history, culture, wine, and gastronomy are likely to enjoy it the most.

Quick facts about France

Population: 67.41 million
Capital: Paris
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Area: 551,695 sq km
Official Language: French
Religion: Christianity is the most widely practiced religion in France, followed by Islam and Judaism. Other religions include Buddhism, Hinduism, and Sikhism.

Highlights of France

Paris

The capital city of France is world-renowned for its iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, and the Champs-Élysées. Paris is a popular destination for romance seekers, art lovers, and foodies.

Wine regions

France is one of the world’s most significant wine producers, and the country is home to some of the most famous wine regions, such as Bordeaux, Champagne, Burgundy, and the Loire Valley. Wine enthusiasts and foodies would enjoy exploring these regions.

Riviera

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur, is a beautiful stretch of coastline along the Mediterranean Sea that attracts visitors with its glamour and natural beauty. Cities such as Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez are popular destinations for sun seekers, beach lovers, and luxury travelers.

Castles and Châteaux

France has an abundance of historic castles and châteaux scattered throughout the country. Some of the most famous include the Palace of Versailles, Château de Chambord, and the Mont Saint Michel. These are ideal destinations for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

Ski resorts

France is home to some of the best ski resorts in the world, such as Chamonix, Val d’Isère, and Courchevel. These destinations offer an array of winter sports activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, and are perfect for adventure seekers and winter sports enthusiasts.

Best activities, attractions, and things to do in France

1. Explore Paris: Paris is the capital of France and home to some of the most iconic attractions in all of Europe, from the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe to Notre Dame and Sacré-Cœur Cathedral.

2. Visit Mont Saint-Michel: Located on an island off the coast of Normandy, Mont Saint-Michel is an awe-inspiring medieval monastery and one of the most iconic sights in France.

3. Tour the Loire Valley: The Loire Valley is a stunning region known for its beautiful châteaux, vineyards, and rolling hills. Take a tour and explore some of the area’s most famous castles, such as Château de Chambord.

4. Discover Nice: Perched on the French Riviera, Nice is an eclectic city with a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of attractions to keep you busy during your stay. Make sure to check out its beautiful Promenade des Anglais!

5. Visit the historic city of Carcassonne: The fortified city of Carcassonne is one of the most impressive sights in France, with its ancient turrets and walls providing a step back in time.

6. Explore Bordeaux: Located in southwestern France, Bordeaux is known for its wine and beautiful architecture. Make sure to visit the city’s iconic Place de la Bourse and take a tour of its many vineyards!

7. Visit Reims: Located in the Champagne region, Reims is home to some stunning Gothic architecture, including its imposing Notre Dame Cathedral. It’s also one of the best places to sample some of France’s famous bubbly!

8. Tour the D-Day beaches: The Normandy coast saw some of the most historic events in world history, and a tour of its many sites is an absolute must. Make sure to visit the American Cemetery at Omaha Beach and other important landmarks.

9. Explore Strasbourg: Situated on the French-German border, Strasbourg is a beautiful city with an interesting blend of cultures. Make sure to check out its picturesque old town and the stunning Gothic cathedral!

10. Take a trip to Provence: The lush region of Provence is known for its lavender fields, rolling hills, quaint villages, and Mediterranean coastline. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life!

Visiting France: What to know before you go

📌 France is part of the Schengen Area, so you do not need a separate visa to visit the country and can use your existing Schengen Visa.

📌 French is the official language in France, although English is widely spoken in larger cities like Paris. Learning some basic French phrases before you go will help when communicating with locals. Common phrases like “Hello” (Bonjour), “Please” (S’il vous plait), and “Thank you” (Merci) are always appreciated.

📌 Public transport in France is reliable and affordable with buses, trams, subway systems, and trains all linking major cities. Taxis are also available in most cities but can be expensive so it’s best to use them only for short trips.

📌 France has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Prices are usually higher in Paris and other touristy areas, so plan ahead to make sure you get the best bang for your buck.

📌 The climate in France is temperate, with warm summers and cold winters. The average temperature in Paris is 2.2 °C (36°F) in January and 23.3 °C (73.9°F) in July.

📌 Food-wise, don’t miss out on all the delicious French dishes like steak frites, boeuf bourguignon, ratatouille, and crepes.

📌 Paris is the most popular tourist destination in the country, followed by Bordeaux, Lyon, and Nice.

📌 The currency in France is the Euro (EUR). It’s important to note that some places may not accept card payments, so it’s best to carry some cash with you.