France at a Glance

Weather: France experiences a temperate climate with variations across regions. Winters can be cold, especially in the north and mountainous areas, while summers are warm, particularly in the south. Average temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) in winter to 25°C (77°F) in summer.

Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November are the best times to visit, with pleasant weather and fewer tourists. July and August are peak tourist months, especially in Paris and the French Riviera.

Currency and Tipping: The Euro (EUR) is the official currency. Tipping is not mandatory in France, as service charges are usually included in the bill, but small tips for good service are appreciated.

Must Eat: Try French specialties such as coq au vin, bouillabaisse, croissants, and the vast array of cheeses like Camembert and Roquefort. Don’t forget to sample local wines and pastries.

Power Up: Plug type E, 230 V.

Language: French is the official language, but English is widely understood in tourist areas.

Popular Activities: Visiting historic sites like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, exploring picturesque villages and vineyards, enjoying the beaches of the French Riviera, skiing in the Alps, and experiencing the rich culinary and cultural heritage.

Paris – Experience the iconic Eiffel Tower, the world-famous Louvre Museum, and the historic Notre-Dame Cathedral, along with the vibrant neighborhoods of Montmartre and the grandeur of the Champs-Élysées.

Versailles – Marvel at the opulent Palace of Versailles and its meticulously landscaped Gardens of Versailles.

Loire Valley – Explore the stunning châteaux such as Château de Chambord, Château de Chenonceau, and the beautifully gardened Château de Villandry.

Provence – Wander through picturesque lavender fields, visit the historic Avignon with the Palais des Papes, and see the ancient Roman aqueduct, Pont du Gard.

French Riviera (Côte d’Azur) – Enjoy the glamour of Nice’s Promenade des Anglais, the luxury of Cannes and its Boulevard de la Croisette, and the opulence of Monaco and Monte Carlo.

Normandy – Discover the breathtaking Mont Saint-Michel, the poignant D-Day Landing Beaches, and the historic city of Rouen with its Gothic Cathedral.

Brittany – Explore the fortified city of Saint-Malo, the charming town of Quimper, and the prehistoric megalithic stones in Carnac.

Bordeaux – Visit renowned wine regions and vineyards, admire the stunning Place de la Bourse, and explore the interactive wine museum, Cité du Vin.

Lyon – Delve into the Renaissance architecture of Old Town (Vieux Lyon), visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, and discover the hidden Traboules passageways.

Alsace – Enjoy the charming city of Strasbourg with its impressive Cathedral, the picturesque town of Colmar, and the scenic Route des Vins d’Alsace (Alsace Wine Route).

Burgundy – Taste exquisite wines in Dijon and Beaune, and tour the historic Hospices de Beaune and surrounding vineyards.

The French Alps – Experience the majestic Mont Blanc in Chamonix, the stunning lake and old town of Annecy, and the alpine city of Grenoble.