Corroborate a Phenomenal Experience while Traveling to France
France has always been an attractive destination and a primary choice for tourists and travelers, offering a comprehensive package of attractions, from food to culture to history. Whether it is the mesmerizing natural magnificence of the shimmering coastlines, idyllic countrysides, snowy Alps, the grandeur of fairytale castles, or the fine architecture in Paris and Bordeaux, no one can ever get exhausted here. The country has been a land of art for decades, as its setting is poetic in its own way, offering all kinds of tastes you desire. If you are also planning to visit France, this article will serve as a perfect guide, providing all the necessary details to keep you prepared. Hence, attentively review the forthcoming sections to learn more about what France has to offer for you.
Important Information about France
- Capital: Paris
- Population: 68,605,616
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Language: French
- Main Airport: Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)
Top Things to do in France
In France, one may never run out of things to do; in fact, it would be challenging to see so much in a single trip. Therefore, you may consider reviewing the list of activities provided for your stay in France, which are not only popular but also exciting for visitors. Thus, sift through the list and pick the activities that suit you best:
- Skiing in Val d'Isère: Located in the eastern part of the Northern French Alps, Val d'Isère is a large ski resort lying in a high, remote valley. It offers an incomparable skiing experience in the magnificent Tignes-Val d'Isère ski area, which is loved by skiers from all over the world for its high altitude and diverse terrain for skiers of all levels. Val d'Isère has excellent snow records in the Alps, thanks to its high altitude and snowfall from two directions. Therefore, whether you are a beginner or a highly-skilled skier, Val d'Isère will serve as an excellent location for you. Besides thrill-seekers, you will find several charming villages, family-friendly areas, and a wide range of opportunities to explore, making it a fascinating location for families as well.
- Hike in the Agriates Desert: The Agriates Desert is an expansive wilderness spanning 35 km and boasts some of the finest beaches not only in the country but also in Europe. The place is a solitary heaven and offers numerous opportunities to indulge in, such as off-roading, motorbiking, swimming, and more, but the best experience can be obtained through hiking. There are multiple hiking routes; however, the coastal path from Saint-Florent to Ostriconi is popular. While proceeding on this path, you will be covering the complete strenuous and sublime coastline of Agriates, which requires a hike of 35 km. Along the route, there will be some huts that are converted to accommodate hikers. However, there will be no food and water, so you have to carry enough for yourself.
- Take a gondola to Aiguille du Midi: To take the highest gondola or cable car in France, you have to visit Mount Blanc, which is the highest peak in Western Europe. The region is famous among mountaineers, skiers, hikers, and others, but you can enjoy a mesmerizing view of Mount Blanc on a gondola ride from Chamonix to Aiguille du Midi. You will enjoy the view from 3,842 meters, looking down at the snow-capped peaks and beautiful valleys, with the clear blue sky overhead. Remember to make bookings in advance, and layer yourself with warm clothes. It will deliver a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and is something everyone visiting France must do at least once.
- Explore the French Christmas Market: The French Christmas markets are among the finest in the world, and tourists from all over the globe come to witness their splendour. As soon as December hits, you will find these Christmas markets everywhere across the country. Some of the best Christmas markets in France include the Strasbourg Christmas Market, the Colmar Christmas Market, and the Paris Christmas Market, among others. While exploring the market, visitors can shop for souvenirs, gifts, baked delicacies, and much more. Hence, visiting France during the festive seasons would offer an iconic, vibrant experience.
- Taste Wine in Bordeaux: Where else could you have the best Wine tasting experience than in Bordeaux, where the winemaking has been in its history for the past 2,000 years? Bordeaux offers a perfect blend of culture, heritage, and deep-rooted history in making exceptional wines, with over 60 appellations and around 7,000 wineries, delivering a top-notch wine tasting experience. From so many options, Chateau du Taillan, Chateau Grangey, Chateau Mauvinon, Chateau Ferriere, and Grand Cru Classe are some great options. Other than them, you choose other options as well, and cater to your taste buds with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec, and more.
Top Places to Visit in France
France is a gorgeous country packed with exquisite locations that have inspired poets, writers, and artists for ages. There is no place in France that cannot be considered great to visit; however, some places hold more mystique than others. Therefore, to help you with making your France bucket list, below we have listed some of the top places other than Paris and Bordeaux, you should be visiting to make your France trip worth it:
- Champagne-Ardenne: Champagne-Ardenne is a former administrative region in northeastern France, known as the birthplace of Champagne, the sparkling wine, and is particularly well known for its wines and gastronomic tourism. The region's history dates back to Roman times, and by the seventeenth century, it had established a great reputation. Additionally, the endless vineyard slopes, the charming little towns, and a storybook setting created by the half-timbered houses make the environment more serene and cinematic.
- Provence: Another postcard-perfect location in southern France, renowned for its panoramic views. The region remains in demand, especially during summer, as its lavender fields become even more vibrant, merging with the red rock canyons of the Luberon. Also, there are turquoise lakes and emerald rivers, where you can even take a dive, and also explore the pinkish salt marshes of the Camargue. With so many colors in a single location, it feels like an artist's color palette, making it a must-visit destination.
- The French Riviera: An ideal destination for those who love beaches, sun, and the sea, it stretches from Menton to Cassis. The coastline is renowned for its splendid turquoise sea, and a mountain behind the Riviera creates a backdrop worth seeing. The spellbinding Mediterranean coastline is home to some of the finest resorts and also offers a stylish nightlife, making the atmosphere vibrant and electrifying. Also, the region has been a haven for artists, including Picasso and Matisse, and features several historic treasures and artworks displayed in museums and galleries.
- Burgundy: Situated in central-eastern France, Burgundy is another region famous for its wine and deep culture. The region is just a two-hour drive from Paris and is home to Côte d'Or, a UNESCO-listed Vineyard, and, beyond that, rolling landscapes with mustard fields and charming ancient villages. Just strolling through the region, you will be captivated by the half-timbered houses, Romanesque churches, castles, and other fine architecture, offering a quiet, peaceful, and mesmerizing transition from the bustling streets of Paris.
- Annecy: In southeastern France, Annecy is an Alpine town also known as the "Venice of the Alps" for its picturesque setting, reminiscent of Venice. The city attracts visitors with its numerous enchanting features, including charming canals, the medieval Old Town, and Pastel-Colored houses. Across the city runs Lake Annecy, a crystal-clear lake through which boats glide around the city. Even just strolling through the cobblestone street, you can have an amazing experience.
Best Time to Visit France
There is no best or worst time to visit France, though preferences may vary depending on travelers' expectations. Some may seek sunny days, while others may choose wintery vibes, or some may wish to make no compromises, while others are savvy travelers. Therefore, based on demand, France experiences three seasons, determined by travel frequency. Hence, attentively review the pointers below:
- Peak Seasons: France typically sees higher demand during the summer, attracting tourists from around the world. The weather is warm and ideal for coastal holidays along the French Riviera, for tasting the finest wines in Bordeaux, and for attending festivals, including the grand Cannes Film Festival. Although travelers must stay prepared, prices may be higher, places will be crowded, and wait times will be longer than usual.
- Shoulder Seasons: The shoulder seasons in France are considered the best times to visit, with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower prices. This period is a perfect time for sightseeing, wine tasting, and exploring the mesmerizing French cities without being in a rush. The shoulder seasons in France come from April to May and September to October.
- Off-seasons: The low seasons, particularly winter, are quieter and more conducive to savvy travelers. The crowd thins out even further as the temperature drops significantly, making the weather chilly. If you are seeking to visit Northern France, you will have the best experience because of the festive atmosphere and noticeably lower fares, making it an ideal time for budget travelers.
Cuisines/Food to Try in France
France has given the world some of the finest delicacies, and French cuisine is among the most popular. Though French cuisine offers a diverse range of dishes, it offers the best glimpse of the sophisticated and artistic French culture. Therefore, trying them out would not only satisfy your taste buds but also give you a sense of French gastronomy and its meticulous cooking techniques. If you are confused about what to opt for, consider going through the list below to try out some of the most popular French dishes:
- Crepes
- Cassoulet
- Croissant
- Macaron
- Pot au Feu
- Raclette
- Ratatouille
- Tarte Tatin
- Truffles
- Camembert
Things to Keep in Mind When Visiting France
- Though you will find a lot of English speakers in France, particularly when you roam in the major cities, you might face challenges when you visit more remote regions. Therefore, having basic French knowledge would make things easier for you. Beyond this, locals would see it as a sign of respect when you try to speak their language, which can make your interactions go even more smoothly.
- Politeness is highly valued here, and showing a little appreciation for the locals' efforts is customary in France. You can learn basic French words, such as bonjour, au revoir, merci, or s'il vous plaît. Therfore, go through a few searches or YouTube videos to learn the basic etiquette and wording you should use in France.
- You should carry enough cash, as the country is not fully cashless yet. Even in metros, contactless payments are sometimes not accepted. Therefore, even if you rely on card payments, consider carrying a significant amount to make payments where cards are not yet accepted, especially in rural areas.
- Keep your IDs prepared, as officials might ask for them to verify your identity and nationality. After the airport, when booking hotel rooms, they will ask for your documents to verify your identity. Hence, it would always be convenient to keep your documentation prepared and ready.