When it comes to tourism in France, Paris is at the top of many travelers bucket lists and for a good reason. The city is full of incredible history, architecture, charm, and cuisine. Whether you have a day, a week, or a month to explore, Paris is a travel experience in its own.
Paris sure does dominate the headlines, but this doesn’t mean other French cities should be overlooked ! Be sure to visit the French countryside, the region of Provence, Bordeaux, the island of Corsica, and the French Riviera – my favorite spot in France ! The French Riviera is the Mediterranean coast of southern France, and comprises the charming towns of Nice, Marseille, St. Tropez, Cannes, and Monaco !
Traveling By Train In France
Train travel in France is an easy, affordable, and sustainable way to get around and see all that the county has to offer. There are over 1700 kilometers of high-speed train lines all over France.
One of the best parts about traveling by train is the fact that there are stations in almost every city rather than only near the airports. Whether you want to go to Paris, Bordeaux, Nice, Avignon,or even Disneyland Paris, there’s a train you can catch.
One of the best ways to see all of your options is to check online ahead of time. You can see all of your choices (duration, price, etc.) online at SNCF.
As surprising as it seems, trains do fill up ahead of time depending on the destination. Book early to help you plan out your trips and ensure that you’ll have a ticket when the time comes. This is especially essential if you’re traveling in high seasons like summer.
It might seem straightforward once you’ve booked your tickets and you are ready to go but here are some tips that will help ensure you catch your train without any hiccups.
Before you head out, make sure to validate your ticket at one of the bright yellow machines inside of every station. Failure to do so will result in a fine. Although, I have read that if you do happen to forget and you ask for validation on board, there’s a good chance they’ll do so.
Once you are at the train station, keep an eye out for your train platform. Your train platform will not be on your ticket. The platform is posted about 20 minutes before departure.
Another vital tip is do not look for your destination on the departures list. The trains are listed by number and where they terminate. Instead, look for your train number and be aware that some trains make multiple stops may terminate at a different destination.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit France is during its shoulder seasons. From April to June and September to November, you’ll have an easier time finding cheap flights from the US and hotel’s lower their rates.
Plus, you’ll miss the summer crowds and spend less time waiting in lines trying to catch a glimpse of the Mona Lisa in the Louvre Museum.
If you’re planning to visit France over the summer (June to August), be sure to book your accommodation well in advance. It’s the busiest time of year for the country, especially in Paris and Cannes.
What To Expect
Language: The official language in France is French.
Currency: The currency in France is the Euro. 1 GBP is equivalent to about 1,12 EUR.
Plugs: The plugs in France are Type C and E. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz.
Safety: France is generally a safe country to travel to especially as a solo female traveler. However, pickpockets and tourist scams are common, especially in the capital city of Paris.
Top Tips for Your First Trip to France
While France is the size of Texas, it has something to offer every kind of traveler. But before you book your flights and start brushing up on your French, there are few things you need to know.
English is Not Widely Spoken
Unlike some other travel destinations in Europe, the French speak very little English. They are very proud to speak French which is understandable.
Imagine if tourists who came to your country expected you to be fluent in their native tongue. Before you arrive in France, come prepared with a few French phrases under your belt !
Learn About French Wine and Food
You’ll want to familiarise yourself with the French food and wine culture before you arrive. It will make ordering food easier, and it will give you an idea of what you want to eat.
Some things don’t translate too literally, and it might leave you wondering what the heck is on the menu.
If you have any allergies, knowing what menu items are will make your life much easier as well. You should learn to explain what your allergies are in French, so there’s no miscommunication with your waiter.
Take the Train
France has an incredible transportation system, especially the trains. I traveled solo through France by train and had an incredible experience !
The trains are easy to use and affordable. Take advantage of the opportunity to explore many of the smaller villages and towns in France like St. Emilion, Marseille, and Bordeaux !
The French Schedule
The French work on a different schedule than what you’re probably used to back home. For example, in small towns and villages all shops, banks, and businesses close for 2 hours for lunch.
In remote areas, the break can last from 1 PM to 4 PM, and it’s similar to the Italian siesta ! Keep the schedule in mind when planning your itinerary, so you don’t accidentally visit a shop or restaurant at the wrong time.
France is Big
When most people think of France, they think of only Paris. But the country has so much more to offer beyond its capital city !
I highly recommend visiting the French countryside and exploring the Provence and Cote d’Azur regions ! You’ll experience a different side of the country and get a great taste of French culture.
How to Save on Activities
With so much to see in French, sightseeing can quickly become expensive. To save money, you can use the Paris Museum Pass.
It will let you skip the long lines at most of the top attractions, and it includes admission to the Louvre and Orsay Museums, Sainte-Chapelle Church, and Palace of Versailles. If you don’t want to use the pass, you’ll definitely want to book your tickets in advance for the Eiffel Tower to save time !
Tipping in France
Tipping isn’t necessary in France because a service charge is already included in your bill. At some restaurants, there are separate prices for a “sur place” and “emporter.”
A “sur place” means you will eat the food at the restaurant and it’s more expensive than the “emporter” (take away). At bars and cafes, a small tip is welcomed (think 10% for good service) and for cab drivers, I suggest to round up within a euro or two.
Overall
If you’re into planning all your trips down to the last detail, it can always feel overwhelming visiting a country for the first time. Hopefully, these tips will help you feel less stressed and have made organising your itinerary for France that much easier !
1. Paris
The French capital is one that has been drawing visitors for centuries. From its wonderful historic monuments to its exceptional cuisine, it is a destination unlike any other. Wander in and out of museums, cafes, beautiful gardens and enjoy the romance of the city. This ultimate Paris travel guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip !
Paris is separated into twenty arrondissements; each offering a unique flavor of the city ! The most popular communities worth visiting are:
Le Marais: Located in the third and fourth arrondissement, this area of Paris has long been where aristocrats have lived. It now has a vibrant Jewish community along with some of the city’s best hotels and art galleries.
1st Arrondissement: Home to many of the city’s main sights including the Royal Palace and the Louvre, this is usually the starting point for those visiting Paris for the first time.
8th Arrondissement: A popular area of the city that is home to several impressive palaces, along with the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Elysees.
11th Arrondissement: This area is a popular part of the city for those looking to enjoy the nightlife. There’s a good range of restaurants to enjoy, plus it’s home to the Edith Piaf Museum.
La Defense: On the edge of the city, this part of Paris has some wonderful modern art displayed and architecture. This is also one of the city’s main business areas.
Travel Tip – The public transportation in Paris is a very useful and an inexpensive way to get around. Hop on and off the metro or busses to get from place to place ! If you are headed somewhere farther away, you can always grab a taxi or Uber. However, the best way to see the city is to walk around on foot !
Getting There
Fly into Charles de Gaulle International Airport or you can easily reach Paris by train if you are coming from a surrounding city or country in Europe. When you arrive in Paris at Charles De Gaulle Airport, do not take a taxi. It is 9 Euros to get into the city from the airport via the RER (the train system).
Depending on the train, you may get a direct one or one that stops at every stop- it’s worth it to save your money. If you don’t feel confident in trying to find your accommodation from the train, take the RER to Gare Du Nord then take a taxi from there. You will save yourself at least 40 euros by doing that.
Where To Stay
Airbnb : Variety of Apartments, Good Prices, Several Locations. This is a good option for those looking to get an authentic taste of Paris life. Just be sure to read reviews and do your research as not all the available accommodations are top notch.
Four Seasons Hôtel George V : Operated by the Four Seasons chain of luxury hotels, the Hotel George V has a great location near the Champs-Elysees, and is sumptuously decorated with historic art and excellent furnishings.
LA Reserve : Travel back to the 19th-century at this hotel with its lush decor and style. If you’re looking for a world class upgrade, consider booking the Grand Palais Suite. This room comes with Eiffel Tower views from a private balcony, two private bars, a wine cellar and non-stop personalized service.
Hotel Le Bristol : If you’ve ever wanted that iconic photo of a big balcony window open to views of the Eiffel Tower, this is the place to capture it. Modern amenities such as a fitness center, spa, steam room and indoor pool mix with elegant 18th-century decor giving you the perfect Parisian stay.
Mama Shelter : Located in the Bagnolet district this edgy and hip hotel is off the beaten path and budget friendly. the rooms are modest with quirky decor. The focus of the hotel is its ground-floor restaurant and lounge. Mama Shelter also has a terrific breakfast buffet !
Mob Hotel : Located in a quieter part of Paris, this simple and modern budget hotel will make your stay in the city pleasant and comfortable. Walk to the Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen (Europe’s biggest flea market) or stay at the hotel and enjoy rooftop terraces, a farm-to-table restaurant and tons of after-dark events !
Where To Eat
Le Bouillon Chartier : Having served food from its Montmartre location for over a century, Bouillon Chartier is a great place for those looking for a well priced taste of French cuisine. They have fast service and all of the most famous French dishes on the menu.
Cafe de Flore in the 6th :This icon of Parisian culture has changed very little since it was first fitted with its beautiful Art Deco interior. It has been a favorite haunt of many celebrities both for its coffee and great food. A great place to see the wealthy of Paris go by !
Le Camion Qui Fume : The best place in the city for those with a yearning for an American style burger. They serve beautifully cooked burgers and great fries !
Renoma Cafe : This stylish and modern venue has both a restaurant and bar, with truly wonderful food, a great cocktail selection and an atmosphere that stands out with American themed interior.
Les Tablettes : In the west of the city, the chef Jean Louis Nomicos offers great value for high quality food. They have reasonably priced lunch options and a great set of menus that include wine with the price.
What To Do
See The Eiffel Tower : Built for the 1889 World Fair, this iron tower stands at 324 meters tall, and while there is a cost for going up to the viewing platform, the views back over the city from this landmark are truly impressive. You can also admire this landmark from the nearby parks which are great places for a picnic !
Sign Up for a Walking Tour : This is a great way to see the main sights of the city in a couple of hours. Book a walking tour with local guides and get an insight into the city’s history, culture, and architecture. They work for tips and offer some great insights into the attractions of the city.
Notre Dame : This iconic cathedral is one of Paris’ most distinctive landmarks, and while it may not currently have a hunchback, it is an amazing example of French Gothic architecture that has been at the heart of religious life in the country ever since it was completed in 1345.
Louvre : Most famous for being the home of Da Vinci’s masterpiece the ‘Mona Lisa’, the Louvre is one of the most impressive museums in Europe. Check the spectacular collection of art and sculptures. If you want more insight into the famous artworks, you can sign up for a guided tour of the museum.
Paris Museum Pass : While all visitors to Paris can explore the city’s museums for free on the first Sunday of the month, this pass provides access to over sixty museums for two, four or six consecutive days, and is great value.
2. Nice
Located on the French Riviera, Nice has everything you need for a quality weekend away. It boasts year-around sunshine, gorgeous beaches, an intriguing history, museums, and a booming restaurant scene.
Plus, it’s a city for all budgets and more affordable than it’s glamorous neighbors Cannes and St. Tropez. While there are many things to do in Nice, there are some absolute essentials you need to keep in mind if you’re visiting with a limited amount of time.
Shop at the Antique Stores and Flea Markets : Nice is famous for it’s Antique District. It boasts over 100 stalls and is the third largest of it’s kind in France. If you’re searching for a bargain, come back later in the day. It’s easier to haggle down the prices from vendors. The flower market on Cours Saleya is a must visit. Opening up in 1897, it’s full of brightly-colored awnings, beautiful flowers as well as fresh fruits and vegetables. Before you leave, try some “socca” for lunch. It’s a delicious flatbread made from chickpeas and goes well with a glass of local wine.
Soak Up Nice’s Jazz Culture : Once the home of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s wild parties in the 1920s, Nice has a strong jazz culture. After grabbing dinner, head out to Shapko or B Spot. They are the most popular jazz clubs in the city and a great place to spend the evening while unwinding with a glass of wine.
Head Up to Castle Hill : After breakfast, walk along the streets of Old Town up to Castle Hill. It’s the highest point in Nice and is where you’ll find the ruins of the former Chateau de Nice.
Spend the Afternoon at Castel Plage Beach Club : No trip to Nice is complete without some time at the beach. Castel Plage Beach Club is the perfect spot to spend a few hours working on your tan.
Have Dinner at Vieille Ville : Vieille Ville is the charming Old Town of Nice. It’s one of the best places to find authentic French cuisine in the city. Make a reservation at Bistrot d’Antoine. It’s a firm favorite with locals and is known for its delicious risotto, fish platters, and grilled meats. For dessert, stop by the Fenocchio ice cream shop. Choose from over 100 different flavors such as chocolate, vanilla, and even tomato and basil.
Day Trips From Nice : Not in the mood to hike up a hill or wander around museums? Nice is a stone’s throw away from some of France’s top destinations. Here are a few day trips you can add onto your 48 hours in Nice itinerary :
Monaco : Monaco is the world’s second smallest country and is full of glamour. The port country is known for its luxury yachts, upscale casinos, and five-star hotels. It’s the perfect day trip if you want to experience the finest things in life.
Cannes : With beautiful weather, all year-around, locals and travelers flock to the beaches of Cannes. You can spend the day sunbathing, shopping at the upscale boutiques or exploring the medieval castles.
Antibes : Located between Nice and Cannes, Antibes has 23 kilometers of coastline that overlook the Mediterranean Sea. Along with its pristine beaches, it’s also known for its cultural heritage.
Overall : Old world charm and history meet luxury and world-class beaches in Nice. The vibrant markets that sell fresh flowers and fruits, award-winning restaurants, incredible jazz scene, and year-round sunshine are only part of the reason Nice is topping everyone’s travel bucket lists.
3. Bordeaux
Home to some of the world’s best wines, Bordeaux is the ultimate destination for oenophiles around the world ! The streets are lined with charming architecture; there’s incredible shopping and of course, more than enough wine to taste ! If you have a few extra days in France, I highly recommend adding Bordeaux to your itinerary.
Getting to Bordeaux
Train travel in France is an affordable way to get around and there are frequent trains to just about every town in the country !
You can also fly into Bordeaux via Bordeaux-Merignac Airport (BOD). It’s 9km from the city center, and you can take a public bus that runs from the airport every 40-minutes.
Where to Stay in Bordeaux
Ibis Hotel next to the St. Jean train station is a popular choice. It’s a super easy location to get to if you’re traveling to the city by train. Literally, it’s across the street !
Bordeaux is a very walkable city, and the hotel is in a central location. You can take the above-ground trams to get to the top attractions or rent a bike if it’s not too hot !
What to Do in Bordeaux
Stroll the Rue Sainte Catherine : The Rue Sainte Catherine is a 1.2 km long pedestrian street that happens to be the longest shopping street in Bordeaux. It’s the perfect spot to pick up a few souvenirs while you’re in town!
Picnic in the Public Garden : Bordeaux’s soul is said to be found in the Jardin public garden. It’s made up of 11 hectares of green grass, trees, flowers and plants that make it the perfect place for a picnic on a sunny afternoon.
Wine Tasting : No trip to Bordeaux would be complete without tasting their Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon! Some of my favorite wineries in the area are Medoc and Chateau Pape Clement.
Cross the Bridge to Darwin : The Darwin Bridge is Bordeaux’s version of the Brooklyn Bridge. Once you cross that bridge, you’ll find a Brooklynesque neighborhood with a skatepark, street art, organic grocery stores, boutique restaurants, and coworking spaces.
Marché des Quais Sunday Market : This once a week outdoor market takes place on the Garonne River. You can find fresh fruits and veggies, cheese, meats, fish, seafood, and regional delicacies, like mushrooms and truffle.
Other Points of Interest to Visit:
- Grosse Cloche
- Cathedrale Saint-Andre
- Grand Theater de Bordeaux
- Porte Cailhau
- Place de la Bourse
- Monumentaux Girondins
What to Eat
Grab a Drink at L’Alchimiste “Gintoneria” : The Ginotoneria is the only one of its kind in Bordeaux. It boasts a menu that offers over 60 different types of gin and is a great spot for sundowners or evening cocktails.
Dinner at Le Petit Commerce : Le Petit Commerce serves up some of the best seafood in Bordeaux ! Order a light white wine for less than $10 to go with your assortment of tasty bites !
Overall
There’s so much to see and do in Bordeaux. It’s a gorgeous little town and it’s definitely worth visiting on your trip through France even if you aren’t a fan of wine !
4. Lyon
When it comes to tourism in France, Paris sure does dominate the headlines. Paris is charming and magical, but this doesn’t mean other French cities should be overlooked ! One place in France that has endless opportunities to offer is Lyon.
Around the city, you can find a Roman amphitheater, and Renaissance architecture in Vieux Lyon, and the modern, redeveloped Confluence district on the Presqu’île peninsula between the two rivers that run through town.
From the scenery and history to nightlife and traditional cuisine, here are my top reasons to visit Lyon :
Parc de la Tête d’Or
This park one of the top parks in France, maybe even Europe ! It starts as a fairly standard park with a greenhouse and extensive flora display. But as you keep making your way into the park, the beautiful flowers and magnificent trees take a side view of the animals.
The water features around the park have turtles swimming around, and if you stand by the stone fences, you’ll see deer and ostrich on the other side. Walk a little further around the zoo, and you’ll come to the giant letters that spell only ONLY LYONS with a giant red lion statue beside it.
The Rhône River
Lyon is a dual-river city, and both riverbanks are a must-see. There are a bunch of boats that are converted to restaurants and cafes along the Rhône, so you can grab a seat on one of the boats or along the pier and enjoy an afternoon treat.
The Saône River
The other river in Lyon, the Saône brings the culture and classiness to the city. Along this river are a variety of fancy cafes and restaurants. Be prepared to spend a little more for a meal on this side of town, but a walk along the river is free.
Old Lyon
Vieux Lyon is the perfect place to get a feel for the history of Lyon. With stunning buildings and churches dating back thousands of years, Lyon’s past shines on this side of town. Take the long, but totally worth it, walk up to the Lyon cathedral- here you’ll get unbeatable views of this beautiful city !
Traditional Lyonnaise Food
Lyonnaise food is a distinctive feature in their long-standing culture, so whether you’re near the Parc de la Tête d’Or, or along the Rhône or the Saône, keep your eyes peeled for some of these top traditional foods at a restaurant or cafe:
- Gateau de Foie – Liver Pâté Cake
- Cochonnailles – a dish made from pig, including the tongue and feet
- Cervelle de Canut – Cheese with Garlic and Herbs
- Gras double – Tripe Cooked with Onions
- Salade Lyonnais – Warm Bacon and Egg Salad
- Praline pie
Nightlife
Come nighttime and those boats along the Rhône turn on the disco lights and pump up the music. Dancing the night away on a disco party boat in Lyon is just something you gotta add to your to-do list, as it is one of the best places to party in Lyon !
5. Marseille
Marseille is nothing like Paris, and that’s a good thing. With almost constant sunshine, miles of beautiful beaches and a wonderful mix of cultures, the city has a flavor you won’t find anywhere else in France.
Getting There
Arrive in Marseille by train from Avignon if you have the chance. The Gare De Marseille-Saint-Charles railway station is beautiful and features large glass windows with natural light pouring in.
Located on top of a small hill, the station is linked to the city center by a massive staircase. If you’re traveling with a lot of luggage, face the stairs, walk right around the building, and you’ll be at street level.
Where to Stay in Marseille
Hôtel Alex : The Alex Hotel is the only three-star boutique hotel in Marseille. Located near the train station and the airport, it’s easy to get here once you arrive.
Inside each room, you’ll find premium bedding, AC, a rain shower, flatscreen TVs, free WiFi, and more. Once you’re all checked in, head up to the 1713 Lounge, a rooftop terrace where you can enjoy wine and local dishes.
What To Do
Breakfast at Old Port : Marseille’s Old Port is one of the most picturesque parts of the city. Its 100-year old fish market opens at 8 am and is a great spot to grab a light breakfast. Head to one of the cafes on the water edge, order a croissant and cafe au lait and watch the currents rock the old wooden boats in the distance.
Dinner at Peron Restaurant : Located right on the water, Peron is one of the best restaurants in Marseille for a spectacular sunset dinner. It is a popular spot, so book in advance to snag a table with a view.
Drinks at La Petit Pavillion : If you’re looking for a low-key vibe to end off your first day in Marseille, stop by La Petit Pavillion. It’s another incredible sunset spot in the city and has a delicious cocktail menu.
Visit the Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde : After breakfast, take the Petit train up to the Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde. It’s a scenic trip that will take you along a seaside road and past the forts of Pharo Palace and St Victor’s Abbey. The Notre Dame de la Garde sits at the highest point of Marseille and is one of the most iconic symbols of the city. Inside you’ll find beautiful mosaics, colored marble statues and murals depicting the ships sailing under the protection of The Good Mother.
Wander Around Cours Julien and Parc Longchamp : Make your way to Parc Longchamp. It’s listed as one of the Notable Gardens of France by the French Ministry of Culture. Next, head to Cours Julien. It’s Marseille’s bohemian quarter and is a great spot to spend the afternoon. Explore the street art, shop for vinyl records, vintage clothes or handmade gifts. Be sure to pop into one of the bars and have the traditional French “apéro” drink.
Explore La Panier : Take a stroll through La Panier. It’s the oldest neighborhood in Marseille and is known for its cobbled streets, cute vintage shops, street art, and historical buildings. Spend your afternoon wandering around Vielle Charité. It’s a 17th-century almshouse that’s been turned into a cultural center. You’ll find several museums, a cinema and exhibition halls. Before leaving, make the climb up to Cathédrale de la Major.
Watch the Sunset at La Porte d’Orient : Catch a local bus and explore further along the coast before the day ends. I recommend arriving at La Porte d’Orient just as the sun starts to go down. You’ll arrive in time to watch the light rays dip between the statues outstretched arms, making for an epic serendipitous sunset.
Day Trip from Marseille : If you have the time, go on a day trip to Calanques. Designated a national park in 2012, it stretches from Marseille to La Ciotat. The park is known for its striking turquoise water and limestone cliffs. It’s by far one of the most beautiful national parks in Europe ! If you have the chance and the weather is warm enough, find somewhere to jump in and go for a swim.
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