France Travel Guide 2026: everything you need to plan your perfect getaway

Important! Travel insurance for France is mandatory for certain nationalities.

Written by S. Castemilk
Date : 05/27/2026

Why choose France for your next holiday destination?

Where Art de vivre meets joie de vivre, where History meets Nature, where gastronomy meets elegance, welcome to France.

With the help of René, the hiker/farmer from Normandy and Marie, the artsy-fartsy city dweller, the AXA team has prepared a selection of must-sees and hidden gems to help you plan your trip.

Experience the best of France whether you're here for culture, nature, food or pure discovery, enriched with local tips and insider insights from those who know it best.

NB: Unfortunately, this article doesn't cover the wonders of the French overseas regions. Stay tuned!

Your complete guide to visiting France

• 🏛️ Top things to see and must-do experiences in France
• 🎨 Travel styles: where to go depending on what you love
• 🗺️ Best itineraries to explore France in a few days or weeks
• 🗝️ Discover France differently with local tips and insider experiences
• 🌤️ Best time to visit France and seasonal highlights
• 🚂 Getting around France easily by train, car or local transport
• 💰 Travel budget in France: what to expect and how to save
• 🛂 Practical travel tips before your trip to France
• 🛡️ Travel insurance for visiting France
• ❓ FAQ for planning your trip to France

Top things to do and see in France

Sea, mountains, gorgeous countryside, astounding architecture, history, gastronomy... Several lifetimes would not suffice to discover all French wonders. Here are a few of the unmissables and some bonus ideas to bring an extra je ne sais quoi to your trip.

Top 5 must-see areas in France

• Paris and its area: the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre-Dame cathedral (newly restored and more breathtaking than ever after the 2019 fire!), the Château de Versailles.
• Normandy coasts, the landing beaches and Mont-Saint-Michel.
• The Loire Valley and its châteaux: Amboise, Chambord, Chenonceau.
• The Lyon, Bordeaux and Marseille areas.
• The Côte d'Azur aka the French Riviera.

💡 Did you know? The Riviera region enjoys 300 days of sunshine a year. When that winter blues hits, you know where to head!

What are the best hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations in France?

Leave the big cities behind and follow the path less taken if you want to discover more confidential locations such as:

• The smaller chateaux of the Loire region: Courtanvaux, Poncé, le Lude, Ronsard's la Possonnière — as well as the local vineyards.
• The islands of Bréhat, le Glénan and Batz in Brittany.
• The Jura's Five Lakes region: perfect for hiking, wild swimming and untouched landscapes far from the crowds.

🗝️ A local's tip: what the guidebooks don't tell you

René recommends: "Hop on a bike and follow the winding roads that go through small villages. Stop, visit the churches, local museums and ask about the other landmarks of the area (windmills, lavoirs,...). Don't forget to check out the local newspapers for events.
For inspiring cycling routes across France, France Vélo Tourisme is a great starting point!"

Where to go in France for your first time? Best spots by travel style

Whether you are a Nature passionate, an Art Lover, a foody fashionista or a fun-driven family, France will have what you are looking for.

Best destinations in France for nature lovers and outdoor fans

Cycling, hiking, rafting, skiing... Nature abounds in France! Whether you thrive on intense physical challenges or simply need to reconnect with trees and singing birds, you will easily find your perfect escape.

Here are a few exceptional spots to add to your bucket list:

• The Gorges du Verdon (Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur): a breathtaking turquoise canyon perfect for kayaking, rafting, and rock climbing.
• The Calanques of Marseille: stunning limestone cliffs dipping into crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, ideal for scenic hikes and swimming.
• Corsica's GR20: one of Europe's most beautiful (and challenging!) mountain trekking trails.
• Brittany's GR34: a spectacular 2,000 km coastal path with dramatic ocean views.
• The Gironde Cycling Tour: a flat bike network through vineyards, pine forests, and ocean beaches.

🗝️ Pro and local Tip: Before hitting the trail, check the official MonGR website for maps, safety tips, and expert guides!

Cultural experiences in France: Top museums and historic spots

Art, architecture, fashion, history... France is a living museum! And the experience changes completely whether you stay in the capital or explore the French regions.

World-Class Culture in Paris

Paris is the ultimate hub for art lovers and fashionistas. Don't miss these iconic stops:

• The Louvre: the world's largest art museum, home to the Mona Lisa.
• Musée d'Orsay: a stunning former train station packed with Impressionist masterpieces.
• The MAM: a dynamic modern art museum located near the Eiffel Tower!
• Cité de l'Architecture: a fascinating showcase of France's finest historical monuments.
• Palais Galliera (Musée de la Mode): a Renaissance-inspired palace hosting exclusive high-fashion exhibitions.

🗝️ Marie's insider tip:
"Don't be shy and step inside the art galleries of Le Marais and Saint-Germain-des-Prés to discover new artists and confidential exhibitions for free."

Deep dives into La Province (outside Paris)

• The Beaux-Arts Museums (Lyon, Lille, Strasbourg): magnificent fine arts collections without the Parisian crowds.
• MAMAC & Chagall Museum (Nice): a great mix of bold modern art and colorful masterpieces.
• The D-Day Landings Sites (Normandy): moving open-air museums and memorials dedicated to WWII.
• The 24 Hours Circuit Museum (Le Mans): a legendary stop celebrating motorsport history.
• The Abolition of Slavery Memorial (Nantes): a powerful underground site reflecting on human freedom.

What the guidebooks don't tell you!

1. While Paris's Centre Pompidou is closed for renovations until 2030, you can still get your modern art fix by visiting its spectacular brother museum, the Centre Pompidou-Metz, located just a short train ride away in Lorraine!
2. The importance of being wordy:
   - La province: this term refers to anywhere in France outside of Paris and its surrounding region (Île-de-France).
   - La Provence = a region in the southeast of France where warmth, the smell of lavender and the sound of crickets will make you want to stay forever.

Where to enjoy the best French food and wine?

From three-star Michelin restaurants and neighborhood boulangeries to open-air markets and even local supermarkets, incredible food and wine are everywhere in France!

While every corner of the country has its own culinary identity, here are the ultimate regions for food lovers:

• Alsace, Burgundy, Champagne & Bordeaux: the world capitals of fine wine, grand cellars, and historic vineyards.
• Brittany & Normandy: the land of salted butter, fresh seafood, cider, and rich cheeses.
• Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes & Périgord: the heart of hearty French comfort food, truffles, duck, and world-class gastronomy (like in Lyon).
• Corsica & Provence: sun-drenched Mediterranean flavors, olive oil, aromatic herbs, and local charcuterie.

Family travel: Top spots for kids in France

While some children enjoy cycling, hiking and history, the rest will enjoy more obvious pleasures: amusement parks!

✨ The iconic Favorites

• Disneyland Paris (Marne-la-Vallée, near Paris): Europe's most visited theme park
• Parc Astérix (Plailly, near Paris): a high-energy park packed with roller coasters.
• Futuroscope (Nouvelle-Aquitaine): a sci-fi theme park focused on futuristic 3D/4D multimedia experiences.
• Zoo de Beauval (Loire Valley): famous for its giant pandas.

✨ Great alternatives for families

• Puy du Fou (Pays de la Loire): award-winning historical park with epic live stunt shows.
• Vulcania (Auvergne): educational theme park exploring volcanoes and nature.
• Jardin d'Acclimatation (Paris, Bois de Boulogne): charming, traditional amusement park at the city's edge.
• Musée Grévin (Paris): famous wax museum featuring celebrities and historic figures.
• Aquaboulevard (Paris): massive indoor water park with slides and wave pools.

🌟 Antoine's Favorite (Age 9):
"Don't miss La Villette in Paris! The Cité des Sciences has the best hands-on experiments, and you can even climb inside a real submarine. It's way cooler than a traditional museum!"

Best itineraries in France by length of stay

Whether you have a few days or a few weeks, choose the perfect itinerary to experience the best of France.

What to do in France in 3 Days?

Perfect for a quick weekend escape or a European stopover. Walk, explore, and soak in the atmosphere.

• Golden Rules: Focus on 1 city. Avoid cars/taxis due to traffic, and don't schedule distant attractions on the same day.
• What to do: Limit yourself to just one in-depth museum or monument visit. For the rest, admire iconic landmarks from the outside or fully explore one historic neighborhood (like Le Marais in Paris or Vieux Lyon).
• Top Recommendation: Explore on foot to see more, and book a special final dinner (Seine cruise, show, or Michelin-starred restaurant).

What to see and do in France in 5 days?

Perfect for travelers discovering the country for the very first time.

• The Plan: Focus on 1 major town, allowing time for one or two key museum visits.
• Excursion: Take one regional day trip outside the city center.
• Top Recommendation: choose between history (e.g., Château de Versailles from Paris), an exciting amusement park, or a local food and wine tasting tour.

What Is the Best 1-Week France Itinerary?

Perfect for most international travellers wanting a balanced glimpse of France.

• The Plan: visit at least two different cities or regions
• Getting around: rely on high-speed TGV and regional trains to travel efficiently.
• Top Recommendation: spend a few days deep-diving into one major city, then escape for 2 to 3 days to another area for outdoor activities like cycling, hiking, or enjoying some beach time.

How to Spend 10 to 15 Days in France?

Perfect for an extensive multi-region journey across the country.

• The Plan: explore at least 3 different areas of interest, including an in-depth discovery of 2 major destinations.
• What to do: take a few days to unwind on the beautiful French coast, book guided gastronomy tours, and attend local festivals.
• The highlight: experience high-end evening entertainment, such as local operas, ballets, or traditional cabarets.

💡 Pro Tip: Want more details? Check out our dedicated France Itineraries Page to find the absolute best travel routes tailored specifically to your length of stay and unique travel style!

Local experiences: how to discover France differently

While one shouldn't miss seeing the "classics" of the big towns, you will return home with all kinds of different stories to share if you stray a little from the main road and experience some local traditions.

🗝️ René recommends: "Try to visit some of the small country town events such as food markets, flower shows, vide-greniers (garage sales) or comices. You will get a real sense of how the local population lives, eats and parties!"

Which 10 French food specialties should you not miss?

While you will find amazing restaurants in Paris, the most emblematic specialties originate from the regions. Out of hundreds of local delicacies, here are the 10 absolute must-tries for your bucket list:

1. Galettes Bretonnes (Brittany): savory buckwheat crepes traditionally stuffed with ham, egg, and melted cheese.
2. Confit de Canard (South-West): crispy, slow-cooked duck legs preserved in their own fat for unmatched tenderness.
3. Bouillabaisse (Marseille / Provence): a rich, traditional seafood stew made with a variety of fresh, local rockfish, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Raclette (Savoie / Alps): an alpine feast of melted cheese scraped over potatoes, charcuterie, and pickles.
5. Bœuf Bourguignon (Burgundy): a world-famous, comforting stew of beef braised slowly in rich red Burgundy wine.
6. Flamekuche (Alsace): a crisp, thin-crust flatbread topped with crème fraîche, onions, and smoky bacon lardons.
7. Cannelés (Bordeaux): small pastries with a soft, tender center and a dark, deeply caramelized rum-and-vanilla crust.
8. Calissons (Aix-en-Provence): smooth, diamond-shaped sweets made of candied melon and ground almonds topped with royal icing.
9. Nougats (Montélimar): a sweet, chewy confection packed with local honey, egg whites, toasted almonds, and pistachios.
10. Madeleines (Commercy / Lorraine): small, shell-shaped sponge cakes that are buttery, soft, and perfect for dipping in tea.

💡 Did you know? The Great Viennoiserie War
In 80% of France, it's strictly a "pain au chocolat". But in the South-West, it's proudly called a "chocolatine". Ordering the wrong one won't start a war, but it will trigger a passionate debate at la boulangerie!

Top French Festivals and Cultural Events to Experience

Throughout the year, France beats to the rhythm of world-class events. Here are the absolute best highlights, organized by season:

1. Nice Carnaval (February): spectacular parades and giant colorful floats on the Riviera.
2. Fête de la Musique (June 21st): a nationwide festival where free, live music performances fill the streets of every city and town.
3. Les 24h du Mans (June): the legendary 24-hour sports car race
4. Festival d'Avignon (July): France's biggest theater event, turning an entire city into a stage.
5. Les Francofolies de la Rochelle (July): an oceanfront music festival with top artists.
6. Les Fêtes de Bayonne (July): millions dress in white and red for non-stop Basque traditions.
7. La Braderie de Lille (September): Europe's largest flea market, famous for vintage shopping
8. Strasbourg Christmas Market (December): a magical fairytale wonderland and mulled wine.

✨ The Ultimate Highlight: July 14th (Bastille Day)
Don't miss the breathtaking national fireworks, especially the iconic shows at the Eiffel Tower in Paris or over the medieval ramparts of Carcassonne.

Which Iconic French Crafts Should You Discover?

Bring home an authentic piece of France by exploring these world-renowned regional artisan traditions:

• Luxury perfumery (Grasse): the world capital of fragrance and delicate flower fields.
• Fine porcelain (Limoges & Sèvres): the gold standard of elegant, royal tableware.
• Glazed pottery (Gien & Provence): colorful, traditional earthenware that captures the sunny spirit of the South.
• Artisanal glassblowing (Poncé-sur-Loire): master glassblowers shaping unique, glowing works of art.
• Premium textiles (Mayenne): a historic weaving tradition where you can tour the authentic Toiles de Mayenne manufacture.

🗝️ Local tip from Marie: "Thousands of French factories and workshops open their doors to the public. Check out the official Entreprise et Découverte website to find and book incredible savoir-faire tours across the country."

Which local traditions and French Lifestyle rituals must you try?

If you're lucky, local aficionados will let you join a game of Pétanque or Basque Pelote. Beware, they take it very seriously! But everything always ends perfectly with the ultimate French ritual: l'apéro.

Whether it is sharing drinks with friends at home or sitting on a café terrace to "see and be seen" while watching the world go by, mastering the art of the apéro is the most authentic French activity of all!

When is the best time to visit France?

France is wonderful to visit all year round! However, some seasons and regions are more appropriate than others to practice different types of activities.

For the perfect trip, aim for these ideal travel windows:

• Spring (April to June): perfect for blooming landscapes, comfortable walking temperatures, and sitting on café terraces.
• Autumn (September to October): ideal for wine harvests, gorgeous fall foliage, and enjoying major sights without the summer crowds.

✨ December: winter is magical if you come for the festive season. The fairytale Christmas markets (especially in Alsace) and illuminated cities offer an unforgettable winter wonderland experience.

🗝️ Pro Tip: travelling during peak summer or public holidays? Book transport and hotels well in advance, as locals and European tourists flock to major sights.

What Is the Weather Like in France?

France enjoys a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, though you will notice significant regional variations:

• Winter: temperatures can drop to around -11°C in mountainous areas, bringing excellent snow for skiing.
• Summer: modern summers usually average around 30°C in most regions.

⚠️ Caution on heatwaves: in recent years, frequent and early heatwaves have become common, with thermometers occasionally reaching or exceeding 40°C, even in traditionally milder northern areas.

How to get around France: car vs. public transport

Walking, cycling, driving, railing even sailing! Many options are at your disposal to roam the country. The one you choose will depend on your travel ambitions and desires.

Should you rent a car in France?

Renting a car is the absolute best option if you plan to explore the countryside, vineyards, or remote coastal villages.

• Pros: complete freedom, time-saving, top-tier highways and easy access to hidden gems.
• Cons: high costs (fuel, tolls, city parking) and a larger carbon footprint.

💡 Planning a road trip? Read our complete guide on how to drive in Europe?

How to travel around France without a car?

You can absolutely explore France using its world-class public transportation, especially if you stick to major towns and cities.

• City Transit: major towns offer seamless metro and tram networks, alongside highly popular bike-sharing schemes (like Vélib' in Paris or Vélov' in Lyon) perfect for quick rides.
• Trains & Buses: book high-speed TGVs, interregional trains directly via the official SNCF Connect app or website, or budget coaches (FlixBus, BlaBlaCar).
• Pros & Cons: highly eco-friendly and cost-efficient, but you are bound to timetables and limited by luggage space.

💡 Did you know? The 2.5-hour rail rule
To push for greener travel, France technically bans domestic flights on specific routes where a direct train takes less than 2.5 hours (like Paris to Lyon or Bordeaux).

🗝️ René's Alternative Tip: "Want a slower adventure? Rent a license-free canal boat to explore France's beautiful river networks at your own pace!"

France travel budget: how much money do you need per day?

Depending on your travel style, costs vary greatly.
Excluding flights, a mid-range daily budget averages €85 to €260 per person, breakdown as follows:

• Accommodation: €49 to €152
• Meals: €11 to €70
• Transport (public/car): €10 to €40
• Activities: €0 to €25.

⚠️ Paris is 20% to 50% more expensive than other French regions.

10 Smart Tips to Travel France on a Budget

Save on Accommodation

1. Avoid peak seasons and summer rushes when prices skyrocket.
2. Try home-exchanging, pet-sitting, or couch surfing to cut lodging costs.
3. Stay on the outskirts of major towns rather than right in the center.

🗝️ Marie's Local Tip: "Hotels on the outskirts of Paris can actually be cheaper during weekends, as their usual clientele is made up of business week travellers."

Eat like a local for less

4. Boulangeries offer lunch deals (formules) under €9, including a fresh sandwich or salad, drink, and pastry.
5. Book tables via TheFork app to get 20% to 50% off your restaurant bill in major French cities.
6. Request a carafe d'eau (a jug of tap water): by law, it is 100% free in French restaurants.

Free & Cheap Activities

7. Many top museums offer free admission one day a month (usually the first Sunday) while others in Paris are free year-round.
8. France Greeters: discover a city or a village from a local's perspective for free thanks to volunteer network guides.

🗝️ Marie's local tip: "Head to the top of the famous grands magasins (department stores). They have free rooftops with priceless panoramic views of Paris."

Cut Transportation Costs

9. The Scenic Bus Hack: instead of a €40 hop-on tourist bus, take regular city buses (like Bus 69 or 72 in Paris). They pass by the most iconic monuments for the price of a standard ticket!
10. Peer-to-Peer Car Rental: skip traditional agencies and rent a local's car via apps like Getaround or OuiCar. It is often 30% to 50% cheaper, with insurance fully included.

Planning a Trip to France: entry requirements, safety & practical Info

Before heading off, make sure you have all the necessary paperwork and safety information ready for a smooth trip.

Passport, Visa, Insurance: what documents do you need for France?

As a member of the Schengen Area, France applies the same entry conditions and regulations as other European member states for short stays of up to 90 days.

• EU/Schengen citizens: only require a valid ID card or passport.
• Visa-required travellers: if your country doesn't have a visa-waiver agreement, you must apply for a Schengen visa.

👉 Check AXA's comprehensive guide on how to get a Schengen visa for France.

• Visa-free nationals: need a valid passport and, starting late 2026, a mandatory ETIAS travel authorisation.
• Mandatory Travel Insurance: to be granted a Schengen visa, valid medical insurance is legally required. It is also highly recommended for all visitors to cover medical expenses and repatriation.

👉 For official guidelines, consult the French authorities instructions and the official France-Visas website

Is France safe for tourists? Health and safety tips

France is generally a safe destination, but a few precautions will keep you out of trouble:

• Health & Vaccines: no specific vaccines are required; just ensure routine shots are up to date. Tap water is perfectly safe.
  During summer, stay hydrated to cope with potential heatwaves and mind the wildfire risks in forested areas.
• Pickpockets & Scams: stay alert in tourist hubs. Avoid fake ticket vendors by always purchasing from official stands.
  To prevent taxi scams, only use official licensed cabs and check fixed airport rates.
  
  👉 To help tourists avoid these scams, particularly in Paris, the Préfecture de police has prepared a safety guide with tips and recommendations.

💡 Pro Tip: Before you leave, don't forget to read our full travel and safety advice for France!

What do you need to know before going to France? Quick Facts

● Capital city: Paris

● Language: French

● Currency: the euro - €

● Time zone: CET = UTC +1 from October to March, UTC +2 from March to October

● Emergency numbers:

• Police: 17
• Fire brigade: 18
• Medical emergencies: 15
• the 112, the unique European emergency phone number connects to all emergency services

👉 For more information, visit the official France Tourism Board website.

French Etiquette: Tips from the locals

● To kiss or not to kiss: the traditional French greeting of kissing on both cheeks (la bise) is less systematic since COVID-19. For friends and family, it's still common, but for new acquaintances, a warm smile or a handshake is now perfectly standard.

● The Quart d'Heure de Politesse: If you are invited to someone's home for dinner, arrive 10 to 15 minutes after the scheduled time. Arriving early or on time is considered impolite, as it can catch your hosts unprepared while they finish getting ready.

● Table bread rules: Never cut your baguette with a knife, always break off a small piece with your fingers. When not eating it, place it directly on the tablecloth next to your plate, never inside your plate.

🗝️ René recommends: "When traveling in a group in a foreign country, we tend to stay in our little bubble and forget to be respectful of those around us. Always start your interactions with a warm 'Bonjour' before asking for help. A simple smile, a s'il vous plaît, and a merci go a long way!"

What travel insurance do you need for France?

Travel insurance is mandatory for Schengen visa applicants and highly recommended for all visitors. It ensures you travel stress-free by covering unexpected expenses like emergency medical care, repatriation, or luggage loss.

Why Choose AXA Schengen?

With over 65 years of expertise, AXA offers:

• 100% Visa Compliant: Instant digital certificates accepted for all Schengen visas (fully refundable if refused).
• Comprehensive Coverage: Medical and repatriation expenses covered from €30,000 up to €2 million.
• Eurotrip Ready: Complete protection across France, all Schengen countries, the EU, and the UK.
• 24/7 Assistance: Multilingual expert support and free remote medical consultations

👉 Ready to secure your trip?
Find the perfect coverage for your European adventure with our France Schengen Travel Insurance.

Get your free online quote NOW

Related Articles

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• Top Day Trips from Paris: Escape the Capital
• Paris Travel Guide: Tips for a Perfect Stay
• Christmas in France: Best Festive Destinations & Traditions

FAQ

Can I pay with credit cards everywhere in France?

Yes, international cards such as Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, alongside contactless mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay).
However, American Express is not always accepted due to higher merchant fees. It is also smart to carry a small amount of cash for local markets, flea markets (brocantes), or small food trucks.

Do you need to tip in French restaurants?

No. By law, a 15% service charge is automatically included in the bill (service compris). Tipping is never mandatory, though leaving a few coins for exceptional service is a nice gesture.

Do I need a plug adapter for France?

If you are travelling from outside continental Europe, yes. France uses Type C and E plugs with a standard 230V voltage. You will need a travel adapter if your devices have UK, US, or other non-European plugs.

When should you avoid visiting France?

If you dislike intense crowds and peak prices, try to avoid July and August. Summer is the busiest tourist season. Also, if you travel between November and March, note that while cities and ski resorts are vibrant, many regional sights and coastal hotels close for winter renovations.
Transport strikes (les grèves) can happen year-round. Check traffic forecasts in advance to anticipate delays and avoid unexpected cancellations.

What should I do in case of a medical emergency during my French trip?

Have your policy number ready and contact the AXA call centre. Available 24/7, our team of experts will assist you and guide you to the nearest medical facility.
Remember to keep all your medical invoices for your records.
Good to know! AXA also provides convenient online medical assistance.