7 Incredible Reasons to Visit France Now – Take Your Trip to the Next Level

Are you looking for a unique and exciting holiday destination?

France is the perfect place to explore! From its stunning architecture, delicious food, and vibrant culture, there are countless reasons why this country should be at the top of your list. Here are 7 incredible reasons why you should visit France now – take your trip to the next level!

Experience Paris like never before with its iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower or Notre Dame Cathedral. Enjoy a stroll through one of many picturesque gardens or sip on some of the best wine in Europe while taking in breathtaking views from vineyards located in Bordeaux or Champagne. Let yourself get lost in history by visiting castles that date back centuries ago and exploring ancient ruins scattered throughout different regions.

Best Time to Visit:

Answer:

The best time to visit France as a tourist is in the summer months (June – August). This is when most of the country experiences warm, sunny weather, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The bustling cities of Paris and Lyon become alive with visitors from all over the world, and throughout different regions of France you can find festivals, markets and other events that bring vibrant energy and life to the country.

June ushers in the start of the tourist season and is an ideal time to explore Paris while avoiding some of the crowds that come later in July and August. If you’re looking for sunshine and gorgeous beaches, July is your month – head south to Biarritz or Nice where you can soak up some rays on the Mediterranean coast. August brings a mix of hot temperatures but also more rain than other months so plan accordingly if you want to avoid those showers.

No matter what month you choose to visit France, there’s always something new to experience! Whether it’s exploring picturesque villages, visiting ancient ruins or tasting delicious food specialities – no two trips are ever quite the same. With its diverse landscape and vibrant culture, France has something for everyone; it’s no wonder why millions of tourists flock here each year!

The Most Happening Cities/Destinations in France

1. Paris – The iconic capital of France is one of the most visited cities in the world and for good reason. With its historical architecture, renowned art galleries and museums, romantic scenery along the river Seine, delicious food and vibrant culture – it’s no surprise that Paris tops many travelers’ lists when it comes to must-see destinations in France..
2. Bordeaux – This port city located on the Atlantic coast is best known for its beautiful vineyards where you can sample some of the best wines in Europe while taking in breathtaking views from nearby hilltops. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bordeaux boasts an impressive history and architectural beauty with stunning churches, grand boulevards lined with trees and parks perfect for picnics or leisurely strolls. .
3. Nice – Located on the French Riviera near Cannes & Monaco, this coastal town offers plenty of sunshine as well as stunning beaches to relax by day or night! It also has a great selection of cafes & restaurants offering a mix of traditional French fare as well as international cuisine from around the world – providing visitors with endless culinary delights to choose from at any time during their visit here!.
4. Lyon – A historically rich city located near the Swiss border, Lyon is famous for its delicious food and rich culture. Visit Old Town for a glimpse of Roman ruins or try out some of the best restaurants in France – this city has something special to offer visitors from all walks of life!

Whatever your reason for visiting France, there are countless reasons why this country should be at the top of your list. With its unique culture, fascinating history and stunning landscapes – it’s no wonder why millions of tourists flock here each year!

Top Tourist Attractions

Monuments:

1. Eiffel Tower – The iconic symbol of Paris and arguably the most recognizable monument in France, the Eiffel Tower was constructed between 1887-89 to commemorate the centenary of the French Revolution..
2. Palace of Versailles – Located just outside Paris, this sprawling palace was once home to King Louis XIV and is now a popular tourist destination that features extensive gardens and elaborate buildings such as the Hall of Mirrors..
3. Arc de Triomphe – Built in honour of Napoleon Bonaparte’s victories during his reign, this magnificent arch rises up from Place Charles de Gaulle at one end of Champs Élysées avenue and offers stunning views over Paris..
4. Notre Dame Cathedral – This beautiful gothic cathedral is located on Île de la Cité in central Paris and dates back to 1163 when it was first built by Bishop Maurice de Sully. It has been an important landmark for centuries and continues to be a major draw for visitors each year due its impressive architecture, intricate details & religious significance .
5. Mont-Saint Michel – A majestic abbey sits atop a rocky island off Normandy’s coast which can be reached via causeway or bridge depending on how

Beaches:

1. Cannes Beach – Located in the heart of Cannes, this beach is one of the most popular and well-known beaches in France. It offers stunning views of the French Riviera and a variety of activities such as swimming, volleyball, kayaking or sunbathing on its golden sands..
2. Cap d’Agde Beach – Offering seven miles of white sand and crystal clear waters, this beach is perfect for both families and couples looking to relax under the Mediterranean sun! There are plenty of restaurants & bars nearby too so you can rest assured that your stay here won’t lack any creature comforts.. .
3. Saintes Maries de la Mer – This picturesque beach town has been welcoming tourists since it was founded by Greeks & Romans some two thousand years ago! Here you can find quaint cafes serving fresh seafood dishes from local fishermen who still frequent these shores today – making it an excellent spot for those seeking serenity amidst unspoiled nature.. .
4. La Grande Plage – Situated between Biarritz and Anglet on France’s Basque coast lies this beautiful beach with its scenic cliffs backed by lush pine forests . With gentle waves ideal for family swimming sessions, numerous activities such as surfing and a wide selection of restaurants & bars – La Grande Plage is the perfect spot to spend some quality time with friends and family.

Museums:

1. Louvre Museum – Located in Paris, the Louvre is one of the world’s largest and most visited museums. A vast collection of art spanning centuries from Ancient Egypt to modern Europe are on display across its galleries..
2. Musée d’Orsay – The Musée d’Orsay holds a remarkable collection of French paintings from 1848-1914, including works from Degas, Monet, Renoir and Cezanne. This museum also houses some sculptures as well as Impressionist masterpieces in its spacious halls…
3. Centre Georges Pompidou – Opened in 1977 this modernistic building features 20th century art which includes both established & emerging artists such as Picasso & Matisse alongside contemporary pieces from Andy Warhol & Jeff Koons . .
4. Orangerie Museum – Home to Claude Monet’s ‘Water Lilies’ series, this tranquil museum located within the Jardin de Tuileries offers visitors an opportunity to feast their eyes upon 19th century artwork comprising mainly impressionist pieces by famous painters like Manet or Caillebotte.. .
5. Château de Versailles – One of France’s top attractions, the Château de Versailles is a magnificent palace and estate located just beyond Paris. Home to Louis XIV who reigned from 1643-1715, it features extensive gardens and elaborate buildings such as the Hall of Mirrors. A must-see for any visitor!

Theme Parks:

1. Disneyland Paris – Found in the suburbs of Paris, this massive theme park offers a unique Disney experience with thrilling rides and attractions as well as plenty of entertaining shows. .
2. Parc Astérix – Located just outside Paris, this amusement park offers exciting roller coasters and attractions based on popular comic books created by René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo. .
3. Puy du Fou – This historic theme park is located in Vendée, France and features various live shows that recreate different historical eras such as Ancient Rome or Napoleonic times! .
4. Futuroscope – Located near Poitiers, this modern theme park features an array of 3D cinemas & interactive rides centered around scientific discovery & exploration. .
5. Aqualand Cap d’Agde – Situated along the Mediterranean coast in southern France this waterpark has something for everyone from adrenaline-filled waterslides to more sedate activities like lazy rivers or swimming pools.

Cultural Events:

1. Carnival of Nice (February/March): A spectacular two-week long festival celebrated in the city of Nice featuring parades and processions with vibrant colours, extravagant costumes, music, dancing and more..
2. Cannes Film Festival (May): One of the world’s most prestigious film festivals held annually in Cannes that brings together leading actors, directors and producers from across countries to present their works alongside special screenings and awards ceremonies..
3. Tour de France (July): The world’s biggest cycling event that covers various stages throughout France over a period of three weeks every July culminating in a grand finish at Paris’ Champs Elysees where the winner is announced! .
4. Fête des Lumières (August/September): An annual celebration held in Lyon which sees thousands converge upon its streets to enjoy spectacular light shows projected onto buildings while also admiring some amazing fireworks displays too! .
5. Bastille Day Celebrations (July 14th): This national holiday commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison by revolutionaries on July 14th 1789 – an event that marked a crucial turning point for modern French history & culture.. To celebrate this day people usually hold public gatherings such as parades, fireworks and parties.

Best Local Foods and Delicacies:

1. Escargots: France’s most iconic dish, snails served in a savory butter and garlic sauce. . Foie Gras: A creamy paste made from fattened goose or duck liver.
2. Ratatouille: A traditional Provencal stew of stewed vegetables cooked with olive oil and herbs such as thyme and basil.
3. Coq au vin: Rooster slow cooked with red wine, mushrooms and bacon. Cassoulet: A hearty casserole composed of white beans, pork sausages, duck confit & lamb shanks simmered in tomato sauce.
4. Bouillabaisse: An aromatic seafood stew originating from Marseille usually consisting of fish stock, whitefish fillets, mussels & other shellfish varieties accompanied by croutons soaked in rouille (a spicy mayonnaise-based sauce) .
5. Tarte tatin: An upside-down tart featuring layers of caramelized apples baked atop a flaky puff pastry base dusted with icing sugar .
6. Macarons :Round meringue cookies made from almond flour and filled with ganache or jam .
7. Crêpes: Thin pancakes usually served with a variety of fillings such as fresh fruit, chocolate spread and whipped cream.

These are just some of the top attractions, events and delicacies you can explore when visiting France!

Best Cities for Shopping:

1. Paris – Designer clothing, luxury goods, perfumes, jewellery and fine art.. Lyon – Silk scarves and shawls, handmade soaps & chocolates .
2. Marseille – Local olive oils, lavender products, regional leatherworks and traditional pottery .
3. Strasbourg – Alsatian wines, flavoured cheeses such as Munster or Comté cheese and spices like saffron & vanilla .
4. Bordeaux – Wines from the region’s world famous vineyards as well as local delicacies such as canelés (small caramelized cakes) or foie gras .
5. Nice– Local fragrances & olive oil soaps produced by artisan makers in the nearby L’Occitane valley .
6. Cannes – Luxury brand stores on La Croisette plus boutique shops selling unique local items such as handcrafted jewelry or handmade fabric creations .
7. Montpellier – Fashion stores offering chic French styles of dresses , skirts and blouses; trendy accessories including bags purses etc; gourmet specialties like candied fruits jams olives etc

Cities with Happening Nightlife:

1. Paris – widely recognized as the ‘City of Lights’ and one of the most romantic cities in Europe, home to some of France’s most iconic sights such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum and Notre Dame Cathedral. .
2. Lyon – renowned for its Roman ruins & Baroque architecture, plus outstanding restaurants & cafés filled with locals enjoying delicious food & wine from local vineyards . .
3. Marseille – a port city known for its vibrant culture, sun-soaked beaches and ancient Greek sites like Le Panier district& Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde overlooking the harbor . .
4. Strasbourg – A beautiful town situated on the Rhine River boasting an abundance of traditional timber framed buildings belonging to its UNESCO World Heritage Site Center.. The city is also well known for its iconic Christmas markets that draw visitors from around Europe each year!
5. Bordeaux – Home to some world famous wineries offering excellent tours alongside tasting sessions featuring artisanal products made locally within this region; it’s also a great spot for shopping too!
6. Nice – Located on French Riviera between Cannes and Monte Carlo with stunning views over Mediterranean Sea, perfect for travelers looking for beach relaxation, great food and some amazing nightlife.

Peaceful and Tranquil Cities:

1. Annecy -stled in the French Alps, this picturesque city is known for its mesmerizing turquoise lake, cobblestone streets and peaceful atmosphere. .
2. Carcassonne – With its unspoiled medieval fortifications and ancient architecture, this town offers a tranquil escape from busy life. .
3. Bordeaux – An elegant port city with enchanting riverside promenades as well as numerous vineyards to explore providing peaceful relaxation away from hustle and bustle of daily life . .
4. Strasbourg – Situated on the beautiful Rhine River , visitors can soak up the charming natural beauty of this place or take a leisurely stroll through the centuries old streets filled with storybook like houses & shops . .
5. La Rochelle – This coastal resort town provides an ideal getaway for those seeking peace & tranquility surrounded by stunning beaches, harbor views & quaint cafes serving up traditional French cuisine .

Language Spoken and Communication Barriers:

France is a multi-lingual country, with the main language being French. This Romance language is spoken by around 80% of the population and is greatly influenced by Latin, Germanic, Celtic as well as Arabic languages. Other regional dialects are also spoken in certain parts of the country such as Basque in the South West and Breton in the North West.

Most French people are quite proficient in English and usually happy to help out visitors who struggle with their own language skills. However, it’s always a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in the local tongue before visiting France or any other foreign country as this can be very helpful when communicating with locals.

Commonly Used Phrases and Translations:

1. Bonjour (Hello).
2. Au revoir (Goodbye).
3. S’il vous plaît (Please).
4. Merci (Thank You).
5. Oui/Non (Yes/No).
6. Je ne comprends pas (I don’t understand) .
7. Pardon? / Quoi?(Excuse me?) .
8. Combien ça coûte ?(How much does it cost?) .
9. Je cherche ….(I’m looking for…) .
10. Parlez-vous anglais ?(Do you speak English?)

Things To Avoid or Be Careful Of:

1. Don’t try to bargain in shops and restaurants, as it is considered bad manners. . Avoid giving money or any other kind of gratuity for services like hailing a taxi – this is already included in the fare you pay!.
2. Be mindful of pickpocketing, especially when visiting popular tourist spots such as the Eiffel Tower or Notre-Dame Cathedral. .
3. Try not to be too loud when speaking in public places such as cafes, restaurants and bars – French people value their privacy and respect quiet conversations held at a low volume level! .
4. Take care when crossing roads or driving on motorways – always keep an eye out for traffic signals & signs that indicate where one should stop before crossing onto another side of the road/street! .
5. Make sure to dress appropriately for religious sites; women are expected to cover their shoulders and knees while men should take off their hats out of respect for those who may be worshipping inside these churches/monuments . .

FAQs:

What kind of clothing should I wear?

It’s always best to dress conservatively when visiting France. Shorts and tank tops are generally not accepted in many places, so it’s best to stick with trousers or skirts that go below the knees, blouses or shirts with sleeves, and closed-toe shoes. Additionally, for visits to religious sites women should cover their shoulders and knees while men should take off their hats out of respect for those who may be worshipping inside these churches/monuments.

What are the things I should carry while I travel to France

1. Passport.
2. Currency and credit/debit cards copy of your passport/visa.
3. Travel insurance documents.
4. Cell phone and charger.
5. Basic first-aid kit . Headphones or ear plugs.
6. Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses.
7. Clothing appropriate for the destination (long pants and closed toe shoes for religious sites).
8. Comfortable shoes.
9. Lightweight umbrella.
10. Personal hygiene items.

How do I get around the country/city while travelling to France?

Traveling around France is easy and convenient with a variety of transportation options available. The most popular way to get around the country is by train, as they offer a reliable and comfortable service that covers most areas of the country. The biggest railways company in France is SNCF and they operate numerous routes throughout the nation. There are also bus and coach services available, as well as domestic flights for those who don’t mind taking to the air.

For getting around cities, the most popular option is usually by metro or tram. Cities like Paris, Lyon and Marseille have extensive metro systems that make it easy to get from A to B swiftly and conveniently.

Apps that you can use for easy taxi services are:

• Uber
• Taxify

What is the best way to exchange currency?

The best way to exchange currency in France is to use a bank or money exchange service. Banks generally offer the most competitive rates, and they can provide travellers with the local currency of their destination. Money exchange services, such as Travelex and XE, also offer competitive rates but may require higher fees than banks.

When exchanging cash, it is important to watch out for commission fees and other hidden costs. Additionally, make sure the exchange rate offered is the buy rate (the rate at which you can purchase foreign currency) and not the sell rate (the rate at which you can exchange your money back).

It’s also worth noting that some shops, restaurants and hotels accept credit cards, so you can use a card for purchases as well. However, make sure to check the exchange rate with your bank before using your card abroad.

Finally, always be wary of street vendors offering money exchange services – they may offer seemingly good deals but they generally have high fees and charges which can end up costing you more than an official money exchange service.

What should I do in case of an emergency?

In the case of an emergency while traveling in France, call 112 for medical assistance or to report a crime. If you are dealing with a more minor issue such as a lost wallet or passport, contact your local police station. You can also contact your embassy or consulate if you need further help.

Conclusion:

Overall, planning a trip to France is an exciting experience that should be enjoyable and stress-free.

To ensure your travels are as smooth as possible, make sure you carry all the necessary items with you such as passport, currency/credit cards, travel insurance documents etc.

You can explore the country by taking advantage of its various transportation options like trains, buses or domestic flights.

Moreover when exchanging cash it’s important to watch out for commission fees and other hidden costs.

Finally if there is any emergency while travelling in France then calling 112 will provide medical assistance or report crime.

So plan your next dream vacation to France without worrying about anything!