France Travel Information

France is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From the stunning architecture of Paris to the picturesque villages of the French countryside, there is no shortage of things to see and do. Whether you're interested in art, food, or outdoor activities, France has something for everyone. Here are the top 10 things to do in France:

1. Visit the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world and a must-see for any first-time visitor to France. Take an elevator to the top for panoramic views of the city, or climb the stairs for a more active experience.

2. Explore the Louvre Museum

The Louvre is one of the most famous museums in the world and home to thousands of priceless works of art, including the Mona Lisa. Allow at least half a day to fully explore the museum.

3. Walk around Notre-Dame Cathedral

Notre-Dame Cathedral is one of the most famous Gothic cathedrals in the world and a must-see for any visitor to Paris. The cathedral is free to enter, but you can also pay for a guided tour or climb the stairs to the top for views of the city.

4. Take a cruise on the Seine River

A cruise on the Seine River is a great way to see some of Paris's most famous landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum.

5. Visit the Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is a must-see for anyone interested in French history and architecture. The palace was the residence of the French royal family from the 17th to the 18th century, and it's now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

6. Explore the French Riviera

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d'Azur, is famous for its stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and luxurious resorts. Some popular towns to visit include Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez.

7. Visit the Château de Chambord

The Château de Chambord is one of the most famous châteaux in the Loire Valley and a must-see for any visitor to the region. The château is known for its stunning Renaissance architecture and beautiful gardens.

8. Taste French wines

France is famous for its wines, and a visit to the country would not be complete without trying some of the local wines. You can take a tour of a winery or visit a wine shop to taste some of the wines.

9. Visit Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a small island in Normandy that's home to a stunning medieval abbey. The island is accessible on foot at low tide, but during high tide, you'll need to take a shuttle bus.

10. Visit the D-Day Beaches

The D-Day Beaches are a must-see for anyone interested in World War II history. The beaches are located in Normandy and were the site of the Allied invasion of Europe on June 6, 1944. You can visit the American Cemetery and Memorial, the Omaha Beach Memorial Museum, and the Pointe du Hoc Ranger Monument.

Climate in France

France has a diverse climate due to its large size and varied topography. The country can be broadly divided into three climate regions: the Mediterranean, the Atlantic, and the Continental. The Mediterranean region has mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The Atlantic region has mild winters and cool summers with high rainfall. The Continental region has cold winters and hot summers with less rainfall.

Best time to visit France

The best time to visit France depends on the region and what you want to do during your trip.

• If you want to visit the south of France, such as the French Riviera, the best time to go is from May to September, when the weather is warm and sunny.
• If you want to visit the central and northern regions, such as Paris or the Loire Valley, spring (April to June) or fall (September to November) are the best times to go as the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
• If you want to experience the famous wine harvests, the best time to visit is in September and October.
• If you want to see the famous Christmas markets, the best time to visit is December.
• Keep in mind that the best time to visit also depends on your personal preferences, as some people may enjoy the crowds and the heat of the summer, while others may prefer milder weather and fewer tourists. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast and plan your trip accordingly.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Hotels

France offers a wide variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts. The country's major cities, such as Paris, Nice, and Lyon, have a large selection of hotels to choose from. You can find everything from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to high-end resorts and boutique hotels.

Vacation rentals

Another popular option for accommodation in France is vacation rentals. These can include apartments, houses, and even castles. Vacation rentals are a great option for groups or families traveling together, as they often offer more space and privacy than hotels. Websites such as Airbnb and Booking.com have a wide variety of vacation rentals to choose from in France.

Campsites

France is home to thousands of campsites, ranging from small, family-run campsites to large, modern holiday parks. Many campsites offer a variety of amenities, including showers, toilets, and electric hook-ups. Some sites also offer rental accommodations such as RVs, tents, or cabins. Camping can be a great way to experience the beautiful nature in France, particularly for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.

Gites

Gites, also known as holiday cottages, are a popular accommodation option in rural France, especially in the countryside. Gites are often located in charming rural settings and offer a unique blend of traditional French charm and modern amenities. They are a great option for those who want to experience the French countryside in a more authentic way.

Châteaux and Castles

For a more unique and luxurious experience, you can rent a château or castle in France. These grand properties offer a unique blend of history, luxury, and elegance. They are a perfect option for those looking for an exclusive and luxurious experience.

Public Transportation

France has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, which includes trains, buses, and trams. The country's rail network is particularly extensive, with connections to cities and towns across the country. The SNCF (Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français) is the national railway company, and it offers a variety of ticket options, including single tickets, day tickets, and rail passes.

Cars

If you prefer to have more flexibility and freedom, renting a car is a great option. France has an extensive network of highways and roads, which makes it easy to travel between cities and towns. You can rent a car from major car rental companies such as Avis, Europcar, or Hertz. Keep in mind that driving in France requires a valid driver's license and a good understanding of the road rules.

Bikes

France is a great country for cycling, with well-maintained bike lanes and bike paths throughout the country. Bike rental is widely available in most cities, and many hotels and hostels offer bikes for rent. Bikes can be a great way to get around cities and towns, and they're also a great way to explore the country's beautiful countryside.

Taxis and ride-sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber are widely available in France, and they can be a convenient way to get around. However, prices can vary depending on the city, and in some cases, it can be more expensive than public transportation. Keep in mind that some cities have specific regulations, so it's always good to check before you ride.

Flights

France has several airports with frequent flights from various destinations, making it easy to fly to different regions of France. Some of the most popular airports include Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport and Paris Orly Airport.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.