Travel to France

France, a land synonymous with romance, art, and gastronomy, offers a travel experience as varied as its landscape. From the sun-drenched vineyards of the south to the historic battlefields of the north, and the cosmopolitan buzz of Paris to the rugged coastlines of Brittany, its diversity is its greatest charm. A typical trip might focus on a single city like Lyon for its food scene or Paris for its museums, or you could embark on a multi-city exploration by train, embracing the regional nuances. While often perceived as expensive, smart planning can reveal excellent value, especially outside the peak summer months. Prepare for a journey where every region tells a unique story, steeped in history and flavour.

Cities to explore in France

Pively covers multiple cities in France. Click a card for the full guide — flights, hotels, budget and multi-destination itineraries.

Which city to pick

For first-time visitors, Paris is unmissable, offering iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre. If gastronomy is your priority, Lyon stands out as France's culinary capital, a must for food lovers. For a taste of the Mediterranean lifestyle and vibrant culture, Marseille provides a gritty, authentic experience, while Nice offers Riviera glamour. History buffs might find Strasbourg's unique Franco-Germanic heritage captivating, especially its stunning cathedral. Toulouse, the 'Pink City,' is perfect for those interested in aerospace and a relaxed southern vibe. Each Pively city offers a distinct facet of France, catering to diverse interests from art and history to food and scenic beauty.

Regions to know

Île-de-France

The heartland surrounding Paris, this region is the epicentre of French history and culture. Beyond the capital's iconic landmarks, explore charming towns like Versailles. It's ideal for a city-focused trip, with Paris itself offering endless discoveries for any duration, but a minimum of 3-4 days is recommended for the city alone.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur

The French Riviera and its hinterland, known for its Mediterranean climate, lavender fields, and glamorous coastal cities. Visit Marseille for its vibrant port, Nice for its Belle Époque charm, and smaller towns like Avignon. Ideal for a blend of beach, culture, and scenic drives. Recommended stay: 5-7 days to explore coast and countryside.

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

A diverse region boasting the Alps for skiing and hiking, and the gastronomic capital, Lyon. Explore ancient volcanoes, picturesque villages, and the gastronomic delights of Lyon. Recommended for nature lovers and foodies. A week allows for a good taste of Lyon and mountain excursions.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Home to the renowned wine regions of Bordeaux and the Atlantic coast's surf spots. Discover the elegant city of Bordeaux, the historic ports, and the vast beaches. Perfect for wine enthusiasts and those seeking a mix of city life and coastal relaxation. A 4-5 day stay is good for Bordeaux and nearby vineyards.

Suggested itineraries

7j — Paris & Versailles Discovery

Spend 5 days immersing yourself in Paris, exploring its museums, neighbourhoods, and culinary scene. Utilize the RER train for a day trip to the opulent Palace of Versailles and its gardens. This itinerary focuses on the Île-de-France region, leveraging Paris's excellent public transport and walkable districts for ease of exploration.

10j — Gastronomic Journey: Lyon & Bordeaux

Begin in Lyon (4 days) indulging in its bouchons and exploring Vieux Lyon. Take a high-speed TGV train to Bordeaux (4 days) for wine tasting tours in the Médoc and Saint-Émilion, and explore the city's elegant architecture. Conclude with 2 days in Nantes, exploring its unique castle and Machines de l'île. Primarily train-based travel.

14j — Southern France Explorer: Marseille to Nice

Start in Marseille (4 days), exploring the Old Port and Calanques. Travel by regional train or car to Nice (5 days) on the French Riviera, visiting Monaco and Èze. Continue to Montpellier (3 days) for its lively student atmosphere and historic centre. Finish with 2 days in Toulouse, enjoying its pink-hued architecture and space museum. Mix of train and potentially car rental for coastal flexibility.

Best time to go

Spring (April-June) and Autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather across much of France, with fewer crowds than the peak summer months. Paris and the north experience mild temperatures, while the south enjoys sunshine. July and August are hot and busy, especially along the coasts and in major cities; book accommodation well in advance. Winter (November-March) is colder, particularly inland and in mountainous regions, but offers fewer tourists and festive Christmas markets in cities like Strasbourg. Key events include the Cannes Film Festival (May) and various Bastille Day celebrations on July 14th.

Practical tips

Visa: Most EU, UK, US, Canadian, and Australian passport holders can enter France visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Check specific requirements with your country's embassy or consulate if unsure.
Currency: The currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is useful for smaller purchases or markets. ATMs are plentiful; check your bank's foreign transaction fees.
Language: French is the official language. While English is spoken in tourist areas and larger cities like Paris and Nice, learning a few basic phrases (Bonjour, Merci, S'il vous plaît) is appreciated. Download a translation app.
Transport: France has an excellent high-speed TGV train network connecting major cities efficiently. Regional trains (TER) serve smaller towns. Driving is ideal for rural exploration but can be challenging in city centres. Buses are a budget option. SNCF Connect and Citymapper are useful apps.
SIM / eSIM: Consider an eSIM from providers like Airalo for convenience, with plans starting around $10-15 for 1GB-3GB. Alternatively, purchase a prepaid SIM card from Orange, SFR, or Free upon arrival; expect around €20-30 for 10-20GB.

Culture & etiquette

Tipping isn't mandatory as service is usually included ('service compris'), but rounding up the bill or leaving a small extra (5-10%) for excellent service is appreciated. Greet shopkeepers with 'Bonjour'. Dress modestly when visiting churches. Avoid loud conversations in public spaces. Punctuality is valued for appointments. When dining, wait to be seated and don't rest elbows on the table. Complimenting the food is always a good idea.

Daily budget

France can range from moderately affordable to expensive. Frugal travellers might manage on €70-€90 per day (hostel dorms, picnics, free attractions). A standard budget of €120-€180 per day covers mid-range hotels, bistro meals, museum entries, and local transport. Comfort travellers can expect €200+ per day for boutique hotels, fine dining, private tours, and high-speed train travel. A simple lunch menu in a bistro might cost €15-€20, a museum ticket €10-€15, and a metro ticket in Paris €2.10.