France

Culture, Cuisine and Grand Chateaus

Whether you’re in pursuit of culinary perfection, world class art, incredible architecture or natural beauty, France is a country that you simply have to visit. This stylish and intriguing country is undoubtedly one of the most captivating in Europe and the appeal of France stretches back through the ages. The allure of Paris, France and French culture has proven irresistible to countless visitors for many years and the attraction remains undiminished to this day. 

France’s capital city, Paris is the historical and culture centre of the country. It attracts over 30 million visitors annually who come to bask in its famous landmarks, architecture, galleries and fine restaurants. However, Paris is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to attractions within France. Annually over 90 million visitors come to visit it’s old world vineyards, Mediterranean beaches, numerous chateaus and castles as well as the wonderfully charming villages that await those that venture further afield. Whether it’s a short visit or a longer stay, France entices travellers to return again and again to enjoy its rich cuisine, culture and history.

The Eiffel Tower from the river seine in Paris
The Eiffel Tower viewed from the River Seine in Paris, France

Orientation

France is located in western Europe and shares borders with 9 other European nations. This includes most of the dominant political and economic powerhouses of Europe, including Spain, Italy, Germany and the United Kingdom. It’s also one of only two countries to have both an Atlantic and Mediterranean coast. It’s geography and history put France at the very heart of Europe.

France is divided into 22 different administrative zones stretching from Brittany and Normandy in the north to Provence in the south. The centre of France is largely agricultural, although there’s still plenty of reasons to venture away from the coasts. France also has a further 5 overseas administrative zones, a legacy from France’s global aspirations and empire of the nineteenth and twentieth century. 

Best Time to Visit France

The best time to visit France coincides with its peak season, which falls across the summer months of June, July and August. During this time, the days are long and dry with temperatures ranging from the mid-twenties in northern France to the mid-thirties in central and southern France. The mountain areas are cooler but remain dry and attract hikers and cyclists in their droves. Both spring and autumn are also good times to visit all of France, accompanied by the bright colours of spring and the pretty fall colours. The downside of visiting at this time is the weather is more changeable and it can often be too cold to make the most of the beaches. Winter often brings cold and snow, although the Christmas period with it’s markets is also a fine time to visit. Paris remain a year round destination and offers something a little different in each season.

City of Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt on the hill with lavender fields in the valley
Provence is home to picture perfect villages and countryside

Best Things to see in France

France’s attractions are many and varied. Fine historic cities boast countless excellent restaurants, museums and monuments. Meanwhile smaller towns and villages exhibit quintessential France with communities centred around the local café, bakery and boulangerie. Whether you’re visiting France to see the big sights and attractions or to sample some of it’s magnificent countryside and culture, we’ve got plenty of ideas to get you started. 

Best Cities in France

France is home to some fine historic cities, which combine culture, cuisine and fine architecture. 

Our top 5 cities to visit in France are:

  1. Paris
  2. Bordeaux
  3. Nice
  4. Rouen
  5. Lyon

Best Monuments and Historic Sights in France

France and the Paris region in particular are home to some wonderful monuments and historic sights. Of course there could only be one winner in this category, however there are plenty more wonderful historic sights to see.

Our top 5 monuments and historic sights to visit in France are:

  1. Eiffel Tower
  2. Mont-Saint-Michel
  3. Palace of Versaille
  4. Notre-Dame Cathedral
  5. Arc de Triomphe

Best Towns and Villages in France

The attraction of France lays not just in it’s cities but in it’s picturesque and distinct towns and villages. These towns and villages vary by region but share the same culture and historic background that makes them such captivating destinations.

Our top 5 towns and villages to visit in France are:

  1. Saint-Emilion, Gironde
  2. Beynac-et-Cazenac, Dordogne
  3. Honfleur, Normandy
  4. Troyes, Champagne
  5. Bayeux, Normandy

Explore our France trip ideas and itineraries

Best Places to Visit in Normandy

France Guide and Blog Archive

Best Places to Visit in Provence

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