FRANCE
Fly to France from 473 €
Pratical informations
Concerning the administrative formalities, it is essential that you have a valid passport.
The currency used in France is the euro.
In many French cities, public transportation offers special packages for tourists.
No vaccination is mandatory. However, sunscreen, sunglasses and mosquito repellent should be brought along during the summer period.
On the other hand, vaccination against yellow fever is mandatory if you come from a country located in a risk zone.
On site
Shopping hours
Most stores are open from 9 AM to 7 PM, with a break usually between 12 PM and 2 PM, from Monday to Saturday, except in major cities.
Transport
Getting around in France is convenient due to the various transportation options available. Major cities are connected by affordable airline routes or high-speed trains (TGV), though prices can be higher during peak seasons. Metropolitan areas like Lyon, Marseille, and Paris have subway systems for city travel. In smaller cities, bus and tram services are readily accessible. Car rentals are also available throughout the country, with rates varying depending on the season.
Security
No major problems to report, however, be cautious of pickpocketing in major cities.
Services
Post offices are open from 9 AM to 7 PM from Monday to Friday, with a break typically between 12 PM and 2 PM in rural areas, and from 8 AM to 12 PM on Saturdays.
Holidays and celebrations
- Easter
- Labor Day on May 1st
- Victory in Europe Day on May 8, 1945
- Ascension
- White Night (Nuit Blanche)
- Music Day on June 21
- Bastille Day on July 14
- Assumption Day on August 15
- All Saints' Day on November 1
- Armistice Day on November 11, 1918
- Christmas on December 25
- New Year's Eve on the evening of December 31
The essentials
With its extremely diverse regions, France is the most visited country in the world. The relaxed south offers sublime landscapes; the west large beaches with bracing air; the east vineyards and small blooming villages; and the north cultural heritage: France is a beautiful country from one end to the other.
Among the essentials, you should explore the cities of Paris, Bordeaux and Lyon. Also unmissable are the volcanoes of the Massif Central, the Alps, the beaches of Deauville and La Baule, the vineyards of Bourgogne and Champagne, and the Côte d’Azur.
Gastronomy
France is renowned for its culinary excellence. Throughout the country, you'll find a wide range of dining options, from casual brasseries to upscale gourmet establishments.
French cuisine stands out for its sophistication and astonishing diversity. Numerous iconic dishes are a must-try, including Provençal ratatouille, meat specialties, crepes, salads, soups, quiches, and more. The list is virtually endless! Meals often include a diverse cheese selection before indulging in exquisite local pastries for dessert.
And, of course, no gastronomic journey in France is complete without savoring a glass of fine wine. Whether at a restaurant or a charming terrace, there's always an occasion to enjoy one of the many varieties from France's famous vineyards.
Culture
With a wealth of history stretching a long way back, France enjoys an extraordinary cultural heritage. Museums, churches, monuments, architecture, towns and villages: the whole country boasts an abundance of wonders to discover.
There are a great many activities and attractions: shopping in the luxury stores of Paris or Bordeaux, festivals, concerts, theatres and cinemas, as well as an intense nightlife.
The various French regions also each have their typical cultural particularities.
Climate
France, spanning a wide geographical range, exhibits a variety of climates. In general, the country experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C.
Autumn brings vibrant colors and mild temperatures, averaging between 10°C to 20°C, making it a great time for museum exploration.
Winters are cooler, with average temperatures between 0°C to 10°C. However, festive lights and New Year's Eve celebrations add charm to the colder months.
Spring offers a season of renewal, with mild temperatures averaging between 10°C to 20°C. Across France, gardens come alive, providing picturesque settings for leisurely walks.
The diverse climates make France an appealing destination year-round, each season offering its unique enchantment.
