In France we have a saying, ‘Joie de vivre,’ which actually doesn’t exist in the English language.
Mireille Guiliano
Some people consider France a romantic destination. Others consider it a destination because that's where everyone goes, at least once in their lives. For some travelers, France is a bucket list item; a voyage they must take before dying.
It's hard to spot Mireille's 'joie de vivre' in all these reasons. After all, going to France is a trip to France, but shouldn't it rather be experiencing France? Granted, planning your trip to France can be a killjoy. Thus, to focus on the joy of traveling, Superprof arms you with this travel guide, which includes:
- Basic French phrases to get along in France
- The not-to-miss sites and attractions throughout France
- What to focus on if Paris is your destination
- How to work in day trips from Paris
The Top Attractions in France
The Fifth Republic of France - the France we know today, was born in 1958. Since then, the country has been more stable, progressive, and welcoming. However, the territory we call France has been settled land for nearly two million years.
As a statement of fact - and made with no context, this argument means little. However, putting it in a traveling context and, suddenly, it becomes loaded with meaning.
From the Lascaux Cave paintings in Dordogne to the Roman ruins across the country, France offers something to delight every traveler.
Tourists chasing history will find no end of relics, such as the aforementioned Roman sites, as well as global war commemorations. Castle-spotters are especially well-served; this country is home to hundreds of them.
What does a trip to France offer athletes and nature lovers? The first group may partake in any activity from biking to climbing; from skiing to paragliding. Water sports abound, and hiking trails lace the country.
Visitors wishing to learn more about the country's culture and history might find the big cities suit their interests the best. Travelers hoping to sample France's regional cuisines should plan for a grand tour of the country.
Plan your trip around the activities you'd like to pursue, rather than what others suggest you should do or see in France.
The top attractions in France are the ones that appeal to you the most. You might consider listing your areas of interest and discovering where in the country to indulge in them.
After all, you shouldn't have to battle the Louvre crowds if you've no interest in museums. This explanation, from a native French person, explains how crucial basing your destinations on your interests is.
Planning your Trip to Paris
Whether you're an art enthusiast eager to explore world-renowned museums, or a history buff fascinated by iconic landmarks, Paris never fails to impress. Beyond its historical and cultural treasures, the city also boasts a vibrant culinary scene, from Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy cafés. Shopping enthusiasts won't be disappointed either!
The key to fully experiencing Paris, however, lies in navigating the city’s vast array of attractions and activities. With so much to see and do, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The challenge is to curate a personalized experience.
Superprof recommends planning your trip to Paris based on these factors.
Duration
- 1-3 days: focus on your interests
- 3-5 days: your interests first; recommendations later
- Up to two weeks: anything you'd like to explore, recommended or otherwise.
Season
- Wet/cold: prioritise indoor spaces, such as museums
- Warm/dry: explore parks and urban landscapes
Budget
- Thrifty: free activities - museums, parks, walking around
- Limited: less expensive Paris offerings
- Splurge: the most renowned sites and experiences.
Visiting Paris might be more challenging, as this city will host the 2024 Summer Olympics.
You might know that Paris is organized into districts - arrondissements, in French. The first eight arrondissments form the city's centre. The top Paris sites, such as the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, and the Champs Elysées are all within easy commuting distance of the Paris City Centre.
However, going farther afield yields yet more treasures. Montmartre and the artist's village is in the 18th arrondissement (18th ARR on the map). The Versailles Palace is dans la banlieue - in a suburb of Paris. Disneyland Paris is only a short train journey away!
As you plan your trip to Paris, consider first all the things you want to see and do while there. Once you know which arrondissement most of your target venues are, you can look for hotels in that district. You should also study Paris' public transportation network, so you'll have no trouble finding your way around to the attractions you want to see.
What to Do in Paris
For some Paris visitors, the standard Louvre-Seine-Tour Eiffel circuit is all they need. Throw a few bistros into the mix, and perhaps one of the famous Parisian café terraces, and voila, their Paris visit is complete.
More discerning travelers know there's much more to the city than that. Paris spans 814km2; keen observers stumble upon hidden gems at almost every turn.
Indeed, the list of Paris attractions is so long that some may feel overwhelmed. The trick is to find the Paris activities that appeal the most to you, as these travelers have done.
Your trip to France gives you the chance to discover what Paris means to you. You might prefer munching breakfast croissants as you stroll the quiet, early-morning streets. Or you could spend the day riding buses through the city, to get an unofficial guided tour. Such a plan is a great way to see more Paris sights!
The Best Day Trips out of Paris
Should you only have a few days to spend in Paris, you'll likely want to spend them all exploring this city. However, if you have more than, say, five days, leaving Paris behind is a fine idea. You won't have to go far to make new discoveries.
Reims is only about 40 minutes northeast of Paris. While there, you can tour the centuries-old cathedral, which witness the coronation of all but two French kings. You can also learn about champagne when you take in the wine cellars and tour the region's vineyards.
How about going on a castle hunt? The Loire Valley boasts more than 300 castles, some of which feature Renaissance design. Besides these historic buildings, the entire region abounds with natural beauty. Follow the Loire River to find these treasures for yourself.
Would you like to spend the day at the beach? An early train to Bordeaux, and then a short hop to Arcachon will suit you. You may also climb the Pyla, Europe's largest sand dune, and still be back in your Paris hotel for a good night's sleep. Also, consider these enticing day trips from Paris:
The Best Places to Visit in France
Some of France's best-kept secrets lie hours outside of Paris. For instance, the Mont St-Michel, featured in the video and this picture, is more than four hours away. Unsurprisingly, it's one of the best places to visit in France, but go early to beat the crowds!
So is the Côte d'Azur - what we call the French Riviera, in English. It lies on the southern coast of France, on the Mediterranean. You don't have to head directly to St Tropez, one of the top spots. The lavender fields of Provence are visit-worthy, too.
If you're a mountaineering sort, you'll thrill when you visit the Massif-Central. This centrally-located mountain range includes the Mont Blanc, Europe's tallest peak. Conversely, if volcanoes fascinate you, Auvergne is the region to see.
For a touch of the magical, the eastern region of Alsace delivers. Caught in a centuries-long tug-of-war between France and Germany, it now lies in France. Still, its many villages boast charming German architecture; its winding alleys and waterways make it feel straight out of Hobbit Town. For many, Alsace is the top pick for places to visit in France; this clip reveals a few more.
Essential Travel Phrases in French
If nothing else this exposé shows just why France deserves its reputation as one of Europe’s top travel destinations. With its mix of culture, history, stunning landmarks, and beautiful landscapes - it’s a country that offers something for every type of traveler.
That said, while you’ll find English widely spoken in major cities like Paris, Marseille, and Lyon, things change when you venture outside these big urban centers. In smaller towns and rural areas, locals are less likely to speak English. If you plan to explore these regions, learning a few basic French phrases can make a big difference.
Greeting people with a cheery bonjour and saying merci is the bare minimum to show respect for your hosts. Taking your leave with a sincere au revoir proves how much you enjoyed your visit. However, none of these will help you order a meal at a restaurant or find your way around the country.
In this age of electronic translators, you may feel you don't have to learn any French to enjoy this lovely country. However, the more off the beaten path you go - the further outside big cities, the more likely you are to find yourself at a disadvantage.
Politeness is the most important aspect of French culture. Besides learning basic courtesy phrases, travelers to France should study French phrases related to food and dining, as well as asking directions.
Thus, learning essential French phrases that speak to France's mannered culture is paramount. This French traveler gives us tips on communicating in France, so that we, too, might embrace France's joie de vivre.
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