F R A N C E
Best Time to Visit:
There’s really no bad time to visit France, but I recommend visiting during the shoulder months – April/June and September/October. You’ll see beautiful weather and fewer crowds!
Peak season runs from July to August, where you’ll see warm weather, higher prices, and more crowds. Summers in France are quite mild in comparison to other neighboring European countries, so you will rarely find it to be sweltering hot.
Winters in France (December-March) can be quite chilly. This is a good time to visit Paris for lower prices and fun winter fashion, but I wouldn’t recommend visiting the coast during these months.
Getting Around
The best way to get around France is by taking the train or flying. Book your train tickets in advance on RailEurope!
Public transportation in France is top notch. Their train system is extensive, and the metro in Paris is quite easy to use! We had a driver twice – to and from the airport! Paris also has Uber, if you prefer this option to traditional taxis.
Travel Requirements
There are currently no special certificates or applications to enter France, just your passport will do!
If you plan on renting a car during your time in France, make sure you get an International Driver’s Permit prior to arrival.
Know Before You Go
CURRENCY | Euro. Visa and Mastercard are also widely accepted.
PLUG TYPE | Type C + F
PHONE COVERAGE | Vodafone offers the best coverage in France. Many U.S. phone plans also offer an international option – so check your plan!
SUSTAINABLE + ETHICAL TRAVEL IN FRANCE
- France is the #1 most traveled country in the world! Because of this, they have placed a huge priority on sustainable travel in recent years and have quite a few initiatives in place promoting ethical travel into this beautiful country.
- Utilize public transportation whenever possible! France’s rail company is dedicated to becoming completely carbon neutral – take trains instead of renting a car or flying! Some cities such as Paris or Strasbourg offer bike rentals as well!
- Respect historical sights – do not touch monuments, and always clean up after yourself.
- France recycles! Make sure to use the right bins for waste – yellow for paper and plastics, green for glass, and gray for general waste.
- Avoid contributing to overtourism by visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall).
