France
Lively cities, historical landmarks and beautiful countryside can all be found in the charming country of France.
Paris is the obvious choice when it comes to visiting France, but this doesn’t mean other French cities should be overlooked! Visit the French countryside, the region of Provence, Bordeaux, the island of Corsica, and the French Riviera! The French Riviera is the Mediterranean coast of southern France, and includes the resort towns of Marseille, St. Tropez, Cannes, Nice and the nation of Monaco! Southern France is absolute gorgeous!
These are just a few reasons that France is must visit country, at least once in your life. Paris is home to iconic landmarks such as the the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Versailles, Notre Dame Cathedral and the catacombs. In the South of France in Provence are a plenty of wineries and spectacular scenery.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit France is during its shoulder seasons. From April to May and September to November, you’ll have an easier time finding cheaper flights and hotel’s will lower their rates. Plus, you will miss the summer crowds and spend less time waiting to catch a glimpse of the Mona Lisa in the Louvre Museum or waiting to enter the Eiffel Tower.
If you’re planning to visit France over the summer (June to August), be sure to book your accommodation and excursions well in advance. It’s the busiest time of year as schools are out and there is warmer weather.
If you go between November and December you will find the streets of Paris lined with Christmas lights, you will also be able to visit the Christmas Markets for a hot mulled wine.
For a month by month look, click here
What To Expect
Capital: Paris
Language: The official language in France is French.. ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in French: “bonjour” and “merci”
Currency: The official currency of France is the Euro (EUR). £1 GBP is equivalent to 1.18 EUR. Check the latest rates here
Credit Cards & ATMs: If you see a blue CB logo (it stands for Carte Bleue), that means the shop takes international Visa and MasterCards. Most shops will not accept American Express. ATMs are easy to find, just type in “cash machines” or “ATM’s” on google maps and you will find plenty. Some places may accept contactless payments. We found it best to pay with cash in France.
Plugs: In France the plugs are Type C and E. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz.. I recommend buying a universal adapter
Safety: France is generally a safe country to travel to. However, pickpockets and tourist scams are common, especially in Paris. On Global Peace Index, France ranks 66 out of 163 countries. In Europe overall, France ranks poorly, at 31 out of 36 European destinations. Violent crime involving travelers is very rare.
Random useful tip: Tipping in France is more of a gesture, and less of an obligation. So, if you feel you had great service, leave a tip!
Dont’s: 1.Do not assume everyone speaks and understands English. 2.Do not take out coffee and drink it while walking down the street. Drink it at a cafe, either standing at a bar or sitting at a table. It is considered rude in France.
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in France, reasons to visit France, and how to travel France on a budget.
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Our Favourite Experiences
Check out these experiences in France that should be on your list!
Top 5 Things to See and Do in France
There’s no symbol more synonymous with France than the majestic Eiffel Tower. Standing tall in the heart of Paris, this iron marvel offers a panoramic view of the city’s sprawling boulevards, historic bridges, and iconic landmarks. Whether you choose to climb its steps or take the lift, the view from the top, especially at sunset, is nothing short of magical. As evening descends, the tower sparkles every hour, casting a golden hue over the City of Lights. Beneath its arches, picnickers, musicians, and lovers gather, embodying the romantic spirit of Paris.
When summer graces the south of France, the rolling landscapes of Provence transform into a sea of purple. The fragrant lavender fields, in full bloom, are a sight to behold. Meandering through these floral expanses, the gentle hum of bees and the soothing scent create an almost therapeutic experience. Nearby, historic towns like Avignon, with its Papal palace, and Aix-en-Provence, known for its thermal spas, offer a blend of culture and relaxation. Visiting a local distillery to see how lavender essential oil is made completes the Provençal experience.
Nestled along the Garonne River, Bordeaux is the wine capital of the world. This UNESCO World Heritage city, with its neoclassical architecture and sprawling vineyards, invites oenophiles to indulge in some of the world’s finest wines. Venturing into the wine estates of Médoc, Saint-Émilion, or Pessac-Léognan, visitors can learn about the art of winemaking, explore historic cellars, and sample exquisite vintages. Pairing a wine-tasting session with local cheeses, fresh baguettes, and rich pâtés encapsulates the culinary delights of France.
Perched on a rocky island in Normandy, Mont Saint-Michel appears like a mirage from medieval tales. This Gothic abbey, with its soaring spires, stout defensive walls, and delicate flying buttresses, rises majestically above the sea. At high tide, it becomes an island, while at low tide, the surrounding mudflats beckon explorers. Navigating its narrow alleys, steep staircases, and cloistered courtyards feels like travelling back in time. The abbey’s church, with its stunning views and tranquil ambiance, is the crowning jewel of this architectural marvel.
The French Alps, with their snow-capped peaks and pristine slopes, are a winter wonderland for skiing enthusiasts. Resorts like Chamonix, Meribel, and Val d’Isère cater to both seasoned skiers and beginners, offering a range of trails, modern lifts, and cosy chalets. Beyond skiing, the region offers snowboarding, ice-climbing, and winter hiking. As evening falls, the alpine villages come alive with festive lights, gourmet restaurants, and lively après-ski bars. Sipping on hot chocolate or savouring a hearty raclette, with the mountains as a backdrop, captures the essence of a French winter escapade.
France Travel Costs
Accommodation
- Hostel Dorms – €20–€40 / £17–£35 / $22–$44
- Hostel Private Rooms – €60–€100 / £52–£87 / $66–$110
- Budget Hotels – €70–€120 / £61–£104 / $77–$132
- Airbnb Private Rooms – €50–€90 / £43–£78 / $55–$99
- Airbnb Apartments – €100–€200 / £87–£174 / $110–$220
- Campsites – €10–€25 / £9–£22 / $11–$27
Transportation
- Local Bus or Tram – €1.50–€2.50 per ride / £1.30–£2.15 / $1.65–$2.75
- Intercity Bus – €10–€40 / £9–£35 / $11–$44
- Train (TGV) – €30–€100 for long distances / £26–£87 / $33–$110
- Taxi (per km) – €1.50–€2 / £1.30–£1.75 / $1.65–$2.20
- Car Rental (per day) – €50–€100 / £43–£87 / $55–$110
Food
- Budget Meal – €10–€15 / £9–£13 / $11–$16.50
- Mid-Range Restaurant Meal – €20–€40 / £17–£35 / $22–$44
- Coffee – €2–€4 / £1.75–£3.50 / $2.20–$4.40
- Beer – €5–€7 / £4.30–£6 / $5.50–$7.75
Activities
- Museum Entry – €10–€20 / £9–£17 / $11–$22 (many national museums are free on the first Sunday of the month).
- Guided Tours – €40–€80 / £35–£70 / $44–$88
- Wine Tasting Tours – €50–€150 / £43–£130 / $55–$165
- Eiffel Tower Entry – €20–€30 / £17–£26 / $22–$33
France Suggested Budgets
Backpacker – €50–€70 Per Day
A backpacking budget allows you to stay in hostel dorms, cook your meals, and use public transportation such as buses or trams. You can enjoy free activities like visiting parks, museums (many are free on the first Sunday of the month), and self-guided walking tours.
If you plan to enjoy local wine or beer, add an extra €5–€10 per day. Shopping at grocery stores or markets for meals will help stretch your budget further.
Midrange – €150–€200 Per Day
A mid-range budget provides comfort with private rooms in hostels, Airbnbs, or budget hotels. You’ll have the flexibility to dine out at mid-range restaurants, enjoy drinks at bars or cafes, and visit iconic attractions such as the Eiffel Tower or Louvre Museum.
This budget also allows for day trips via train to places like Versailles, Normandy, or Provence, and occasional taxi or rideshare services for convenience.
Upscale – €300+ Per Day
A luxury budget ensures a stay in boutique hotels, high-end Airbnbs, or historic accommodations in prime locations such as Paris’s Left Bank or Nice’s Promenade des Anglais. You can indulge in fine dining, private tours, and premium experiences like wine-tasting in Bordeaux or a private cruise on the Seine River.
This budget also covers first-class train tickets, private transfers, and exclusive activities for a seamless and luxurious experience.
France Money-Saving Tips
France is one of the most visited countries in the world, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some tips for stretching your budget while enjoying the best of France:
Bring a Reusable Water Bottle – Tap water in France is safe to drink, and many public fountains, especially in cities like Paris and Lyon, offer free refills. Save money and avoid buying bottled water.
Take Advantage of Free Museum Days – Many museums, including the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, offer free entry on the first Sunday of every month. Plan your visit around these dates to save on admission fees.
Use Public Transportation – Public transport is efficient and affordable in France. Purchase day passes or weekly tickets in cities like Paris to save on metro, tram, and bus rides.
Travel by Train – Book TGV (high-speed train) tickets in advance for significant savings. Use regional trains for budget-friendly travel to nearby towns and cities. Rail passes like the Rail Europe Pass are great for extensive travel.
Stay in Budget Accommodation – Hostels from Hostelworld France, budget hotels from Booking.com, and Airbnbs are widely available. Consider staying just outside major cities like Paris for lower prices while still being close to attractions.
Cook Your Own Meals – Many Airbnbs and hostels have kitchen facilities. Shop at local markets, such as Marché Bastille in Paris, for fresh produce, cheese, and bread to prepare your meals affordably.
Explore Free Attractions – Landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral, Sacré-Cœur, and Montmartre are free to visit. Wander through charming neighborhoods or enjoy a picnic in iconic parks like Jardin du Luxembourg.
Use Velib’ Bikes in Paris – Renting a bike is a cheap and fun way to explore Paris. The Velib’ bike system offers affordable daily or weekly rental options for visitors.
Avoid Tourist Traps – Skip overpriced restaurants near tourist hotspots. Instead, dine at local bistros or bakeries for authentic and budget-friendly meals.
Travel Off-Season – Visit France in spring (March–May) or autumn (September–November) for lower accommodation prices, fewer crowds, and pleasant weather.
Take Free Walking Tours – Many cities, including Paris, Bordeaux, and Strasbourg, offer free walking tours led by knowledgeable guides. Don’t forget to tip your guide as a token of appreciation!
How to Get Around in France
France boasts a highly developed transportation network, making it easy to navigate cities, towns, and rural areas. Here’s an updated guide to getting around France affordably and efficiently:
Walking
Walking is the best way to explore France’s historic cities and charming towns. Paris, Lyon, and Bordeaux are incredibly pedestrian-friendly, with many attractions, shops, and cafes within close proximity. Stroll through iconic neighborhoods like Montmartre in Paris or the Old Town in Nice for an immersive experience.
Public Transportation
France’s cities have excellent public transportation systems, including metros, trams, and buses.
- Paris Metro: A single ticket costs €1.90; multi-day passes offer savings for tourists.
- City Buses and Trams: Affordable and reliable, costing €1.50–€2.50 per ride.
- Tips: Use apps like RATP for Paris or TCL for Lyon to navigate local transit.
Airport Transfers
France’s major airports are well-connected to city centres via trains, buses, and shuttles.
- Charles de Gaulle Airport to Paris: RER B train costs €10.30; travel time is 35 minutes.
- Orly Airport: Orlyval train to central Paris costs €9.30, or buses for €6–€10.
- Nice Airport to City Centre: Tram line 2 costs just €1.50.
- Recommended Airport Transfer: Welcome Pickups
Trains
Trains are the most efficient way to travel between cities in France. Operated by SNCF, the rail network includes high-speed trains (TGV) and regional services.
- TGV (High-Speed Train): Paris to Lyon in 2 hours for €30–€100, depending on booking time.
- Intercités and TER: Affordable regional options for shorter trips.
- Tips: Book tickets in advance on the SNCF website or apps like Trainline for discounts.
Buses and Coaches
Long-distance buses are a budget-friendly alternative to trains. Operators like FlixBus and Blablabus connect major cities and smaller towns. Or BusBud for discounted fares.
- Paris to Marseille: Around €20–€40, depending on booking time.
- Buses often include free Wi-Fi and spacious seating.
Taxis
Taxis are widely available but can be pricey.
- Rates: Start at €5–€7, with €1.50–€2 per kilometre.
- Ride-Hailing Apps: Use Uber or Bolt for more predictable pricing and convenience.
Car Rental
Renting a car is ideal for exploring rural regions like Provence, the Loire Valley, or the French Alps.
- Costs: Rentals start at €50–€100 per day, depending on the car type.
- Tips: An EU or International Driving Permit (IDP) is required. Pay attention to toll roads and parking fees in cities.
- Recommended Car Rental: DiscoverCars France
Cycling
France is a cyclist’s paradise, with bike-friendly cities and scenic countryside routes.
- Bike Rentals: Paris’s Velib’ bikes cost €5 per day.
- Routes: Explore the Loire Valley, Provence, or urban paths in Lyon and Bordeaux.
Tips for Getting Around
- Book Trains in Advance: Early bookings on TGV tickets can save you up to 50%.
- Avoid Taxis in Paris: Use the metro or Uber for more affordable options.
- Consider a Rail Pass: A Eurail France Pass is great for extensive travel across multiple cities.
- Travel Off-Peak: Train and metro fares are lower outside rush hours.
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