VISIT France

France is world-renowned for its art, architecture, cuisine, and romance. From iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Mont-Saint-Michel to charming villages, lavender fields, and vineyard-covered valleys, the country offers an incredible diversity of experiences. Whether you’re exploring Paris, the Alps, the Riviera, or the countryside, France is a timeless destination that combines elegance with deep cultural heritage.

❄️ December – February: Winter brings festive vibes in cities and ski season in the Alps and Pyrenees. Christmas markets light up places like Strasbourg and Colmar. Paris is quieter but chilly, with temperatures ranging from 2°C (36°F) to 7°C (45°F).

🌱 March – May: Spring offers mild weather, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds. It’s a great time to explore cities, wine regions, and countryside areas before peak season begins.

☀️ June – August: Summer is warm and lively, with temperatures in Paris ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F). The French Riviera and southern France can be hotter. It’s the busiest tourist season, so expect crowds and higher prices—early bookings are recommended.

🍂 September – November: Autumn brings cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage. It’s grape harvest time in wine regions like Bordeaux and Burgundy, and the crowds have thinned. A perfect season for food and wine lovers.

France has one of the most efficient and comfortable transport systems in Europe:

🚌 Buses: Long-distance bus companies like Flixbus and BlaBlaCar Bus offer affordable connections across the country. Regional buses are available but may be less frequent in rural areas.

🚂 Trains: France is known for its excellent railway system. High-speed TGV trains connect cities like Paris, Lyon, Marseille, and Bordeaux. Regional TER trains serve smaller towns and scenic routes, such as the Loire Valley and Provence.

🚗 Car Rental: Renting a car is a great option for exploring the countryside, vineyards, or mountain regions. Roads are well-maintained, but tolls can add up on highways. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not required if your license is in Latin script.

Cards are widely accepted throughout France, including Visa and Mastercard. American Express is accepted in fewer places. Cash is still commonly used in small shops, cafés, and markets, so it’s advisable to carry some euros.

France uses plug types C and E, both with two round pins. The standard voltage is 230V and the frequency is 50Hz.

If needed, you can order an universal travel plug adapter here.

Tipping is not mandatory as service is included in the bill at restaurants, but it is customary to leave small change or round up the amount. In cafés and taxis, a tip of around 5-10% is appreciated if the service was good.

Tap water is safe to drink throughout France.

In France, some stores are closed on Sundays. There are 10 national public holidays in France:

• New Year’s Day (January 01)
• Easter Monday (date varies)
• Labour Day (May 01)
• Victory in Europe Day (May 08)
• Bastille Day (July 14)
• Assumption Day (August 15)
• Midsummer Day (late June)
• All Saints’ Day (November 01)
• Armistice Day (November 11)
• Christmas Day (December 25)

On these days, most businesses and offices will be closed, and many attractions may be shut or have limited opening hours.

In France, traffic drives on the right-hand side of the road. The main speed limits are as follows:

• 50 kph / 30 mph in urban areas
• 80 kph / 50 mph on secondary roads outside built-up areas
• 110 kph / 68 mph on dual carriageways
• 130 kph / 81 mph on motorways

During adverse weather (rain, fog, etc.), the speed limits are lowered.

• Hello (informal) = Salut
• Good day = Bonjour
• Goodbye = Au revoir
• Yes = Oui
• No = Non
• Thank you = Merci
• Please = S’il vous plaît
• You’re welcome = De rien
• Excuse me = Pardon
• Day = Jour
• Night = Nuit
• Good evening = Bonsoir
• Goodnight = Bonne nuit
• Mister = Monsieur
• Ma’am = Madame
• Street = Rue
• Road = Route

💡 Tip: With the GoogleTranslate app, you can download the French language to use it even offline!

France is generally very safe for travelers. Public transport and tourist areas are well-maintained and policed. As always, take standard precautions:

• Secure Your Belongings: Be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded places like the Paris Metro and popular landmarks.

• Emergency Numbers: Dial 112 for emergency services anywhere in France (ambulance, police, fire brigade).