France travel guide
France Tourism | France Guide
You're Going to Love France
From the lights and culture of Paris to the sunny Mediterranean coasts, a trip to France is sure to spark your "joie de vivre". Get ready to experience French history, culture, and of course, cuisine.
What to do in France
1. You Can't Miss Paris
The capital of France is a must see along with its most famous sites, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum and the Notre Dame Cathedral.
2. Breathe History In
Discover the Normandie region where you can drive through charming villages, visit Mont Saint-Michel, and look for World War II sights around the D-Day beaches.
3. Head to the South
The Champagne and Burgundy wine regions are a must see, and not just for wine lovers. Aside from wine tasting, you can visit the city of Dijon.
4. Fall in Love with Lyon
Visit the city in the Rhône-Alps region and watch a show at the Roman amphitheatre. Eat your way around some of the famous restaurants of this gastronomic capital.
5. Drive Along the French Riviera
Cote d'Azur is a must-see during the summer season. Some of the stops not to miss are Nice, Cannes, Saint-Tropez and Marseille.
When to visit France
The liveliest time to visit France is during the summer months; however, pleasant weather starts from the end of May and lasts until the end of September.
How to Get to France
Entry Requirements
Citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area and Switzerland can enter France using only their ID card. A passport with a minimum of 3 months validity is required for citizens of any other countries for up to 90 days, and in some cases a visa is required for entry.
Plane
The main French airline is Air France and connects the country with a long list of destinations around the world. If you are flying from within Europe, you can opt for a low-cost airline such as easyJet and Ryanair.
Train
SNCF is the main rail company in France and provides train services between France and all its neighbouring countries. For fast trains, Thalys trains connect Brussels to Paris while the Eurostar connects London to Paris.
Car
Driving into France is possible from all of its neighboring countries. Driving from Brussels to Paris takes around 3h 30m, while the drive from Zurich will be done in 6h.
Bus
Bus travel to France is possible from the main cities in Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy and Spain using services from bus companies such as Flixbus, Eurolines and Ouibus.
Boat
Various companies operate ferries between England and France, with some of the most popular lines going from Dover to Calais and from Portsmouth to Le Havre.
Popular airlines serving France
Where to stay in France
If you are staying in the main cities, hotels and furnished apartments are the most common options for accommodation, with hostels available for a more economical option. If you are heading into the rural areas, look for bed & breakfasts or Gites, which are holiday cottages.
Where to stay in popular areas of France
Most booked hotels in France
How to Get Around France
Public Transportation
There are underground metro systems in the main cities, including Paris, Lyon and Marseille. Light rail systems are available in a large number of cities, while buses and trains are commonly available throughout the country. A single public transport ticket costs around €1.60.
Trains
The SNCF regional trains can transport passengers all around France. If you're looking for a high speed option, the TGV is the local fast train, which travels between the major French cities.
Bus
Bus companies that offer long distance travel within France are Flixbus, Eurolines, Isilines and Ouibus. Buses offer a convenient and affordable mode to travel all around the country.
Car
To rent a car in France, you need to be at least 21 years of age, and in some cases, the minimum age is 25. Unless you have an EU or a US driver's license, an international driver's permit is required.
Plane
With 170 airports throughout the country, flying is a very convenient way to travel within France. Air France operates flights around the country, but you will also find budget options with airlines such as Hop!, EasyJet, Ryanair and Air Corsica.
The Cost of Living in France
Rental prices vary throughout the country but are the highest in Paris. Anywhere else, you'll pay about half. The price of an average inexpensive meal is around €15, while purchasing groceries will cost around €60 per week. Credit and debit cards are very commonly used throughout the country.