France – Altered by Adventure

Welcome to France!

Link to "France by Drone"

About France

France is a country of remarkable variety, where grand cities, charming villages, vineyards, coastlines, and mountain landscapes all coexist. From the elegance of Paris to the sun-soaked French Riviera, the rolling countryside, and historic towns, France offers something for every style of traveler. Known for its cuisine, art, wine, and rich cultural heritage, France invites visitors to slow down, explore deeply, and experience everyday moments that feel effortlessly memorable.

What to Know Before You Go

Slide

WHEN TO VISIT

The best time to visit France is April and May. It is a way to avoid the crowds and enjoy pleasant weather. Of course, high season is June through August. Another pleasant time to visit is September and October.

Slide

CULTURE & LANGUAGE

The language is French for most of the population. It is smart to learn a few French words as a sign of respect. The French really appreciate when a visitor tries to communicate with pleasantries. It goes a long way, beleive us! English is spoken in many larger cities and towns but don't be surprised if some villages don't speak English. In a small restaurant in Caen, we had to call up the dishwasher to communicate, but it worked out after all. French culture revolves around good food, fashion and the arts. There is so much to appreciate in these categories.

Slide

GETTING THERE & GETTING AROUND

Public transportation is readily available from many city to another and in larger cities like Paris. It is good to look ahead of time to evaluate your connections between destinations. We took the train from Paris to Normandy quite easily. We also arrived in Paris from Nice in the south of France by taking the TGV high speed train. Friends of ours decided to fly from Paris to Nice to save time. It was even more affordable. Look at train time (we like www.trainline.eu) or flights (www.skyscanner.com). Also consider taxis or Uber for short travel from trains, etc. We also hired a guide in Normandy who picked us right up from our hotel and dropped us off at the train station to return to Paris.

Slide

COST SAVING TIPS

Paris is an expensive city but there are ways to cut costs. For one thing, look far in advance for accomodation as the good locations are always taken first. Look into free walking tours in larger cities and towns. Also pay ahead for tickets to skip the line and get a more affordable price. Many gardens are areas like the park under the Eiffel tower are free. Walk the path next to the Seine river from Notre Dame to the Eiffel tower. One of the covered boats that travel up the Seine are not expensive at all and are another good option to see the sites. When ordering coffee, stand at the bar as there will be a service charge added if you sit. One last suggestion..get a loaf of French bread from a local bakery and look for open air markets. They are usually 1 Euro and the best you can find.

Slide

POPULAR LANDMARKS

You will find landmarks all through France. Whether you spend time in Paris with the most iconic landmarks in the world or head west to Normandy or Mount St. Michelle, you will find unique and special places. In the south, the French Riviera is filled with amazing beaches and iconic places like Monet's home and the Cannes Film Festival Auditorium. The list goes on and on throughout the country. There is so much to see and do, making an itinerary is the brest way to see the places you want to visit.

Slide

FOOD AND DRINK

There is not enough space to cover food and drink in France as it is such a big part of their culture. The land produces some of the best product including cheese, yogurt and vegetables. The bakeries are stocked full of the best croissant, and bread you will ever taste. Chocolate and macraoons are just some of the sweets you will want to savor. The level of cooking is due to the many classically trained chefs. Of course the French will say that they produce the best wine in the world. The house wine is available at a fraction of the price in many restaurants and is usually a wonderful choice

Slide

TIPPING & CURRENCY

Like other EU countries, the currency is the Euro. It is easily changed at ATMs but keep in mind there may be a fee. When using a credit card, it is advise to still pay in Euros for the best exchange rate. Restaurants usually add a surcharge of 15% so keep that in mind. It is in place of tipping that many may be used to. Tipping a cab driver or bell hop is to be expected. As mentioned, sitting in a cafe will garner a surcharge but you are welcome to stand at the counter for a coffee and pasty for no extra cost.

Slide

OTHER ESSENTIAL TIPS

In France, Italy, Germany, Spain, and Greece they use a type C power adapter. It is wise to purchase some from Amazon ahead of time. One other important thing to mention is that pickpocketing is rampant, especailly in France. We were at the Eiffel tower and someone tried to distract us with a clipboard and a survey. You hear stories of how even locals can be taken advantage of. It is advised not to put a backpack with valuables behind you. If you can, leave your irreplaceable items like ID in a safe in your hotel room. We always copy our passport and carry the copy on us. Take limited amounts of cash in public. It is always good to be mindful of your surroundings too.

Map of France

Top Destinations

Get Inspired - Podcasts, Blogs & Video

Top 25 in France

Ryan Shirley always manages to bring life to these amazing places. He takes you to the most awe-inspiring sites. Be sure to check out his website and YouTube Channel by clicking Explore More, to see his other fantastic videos.