France Travel Guide

France invites you to go on a journey that awakens the senses and nourishes the soul. From rolling vineyards and grand castles to art-filled cities and exquisite cuisine, every region reveals a story worth exploring. Travel through France and let its beauty, culture, and emotion carry you away.

Top cities to visit

  • Bird’s-eye view of Paris’s 16th arrondissement with the Eiffel Tower, tree-lined avenues, and Haussmann-style buildings.

    Paris

    From the Seine’s graceful riverbanks to Montmartre’s bohemian streets and the iconic Eiffel Tower, Paris embodies the essence of romance. With its 20 arrondissements, celebrated museums, storied landmarks, haute couture, and exquisite cuisine, the City of Light will leave you in awe.
  • Bird’s-eye view of Nice’s Promenade des Anglais lined with palm trees along the Mediterranean Sea at sunset.

    Nice

    Nestled between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea, and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nice embodies the French Riviera’s charm. Bathed in sunshine, it invites you to stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, wander through the Flower Market, taste local flavours, and explore the Old Town.
  • Panoramic view of Lyon with the Archangel Saint Michael statue rising above the city and the Saône flowing through it.

    Lyon

    Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lyon is a city rich in beauty and history. It offers an unforgettable experience through its medieval alleys, intriguing traboules, and modern neighbourhoods. Local cuisine, leisurely walks, and museums reveal French culture’s many charms.
  • The Pont de Pierre in Bordeaux, France, with its elegant arches and Haussmann lampposts spanning the Garonne River at sunset.

    Bordeaux

    Gem of southwestern France, Bordeaux is famous for its vineyards and the Garonne River that runs through it. Recognized by UNESCO, the city stands out for its elegant architecture and surrounding nature. From riverside walks to wine tastings and museum visits, Bordeaux offers a refined cultural experience.
  • Marseille’s Old Port at twilight with docked sailboats, glowing ramparts, and the basilica overlooking the city.

    Marseille

    Marseille, France’s oldest city, embodies the Mediterranean’s spirit. Wander through its lively streets up to the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica and marvel at its stunning calanques. Do not miss the colourful Panier quarter or a taste of the city’s famous bouillabaisse.
  • Bird’s-eye view of Paris’s 16th arrondissement with the Eiffel Tower, tree-lined avenues, and Haussmann-style buildings.

    Paris

    From the Seine’s graceful riverbanks to Montmartre’s bohemian streets and the iconic Eiffel Tower, Paris embodies the essence of romance. With its 20 arrondissements, celebrated museums, storied landmarks, haute couture, and exquisite cuisine, the City of Light will leave you in awe.
  • Bird’s-eye view of Nice’s Promenade des Anglais lined with palm trees along the Mediterranean Sea at sunset.

    Nice

    Nestled between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea, and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nice embodies the French Riviera’s charm. Bathed in sunshine, it invites you to stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, wander through the Flower Market, taste local flavours, and explore the Old Town.
  • Panoramic view of Lyon with the Archangel Saint Michael statue rising above the city and the Saône flowing through it.

    Lyon

    Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lyon is a city rich in beauty and history. It offers an unforgettable experience through its medieval alleys, intriguing traboules, and modern neighbourhoods. Local cuisine, leisurely walks, and museums reveal French culture’s many charms.
  • The Pont de Pierre in Bordeaux, France, with its elegant arches and Haussmann lampposts spanning the Garonne River at sunset.

    Bordeaux

    Gem of southwestern France, Bordeaux is famous for its vineyards and the Garonne River that runs through it. Recognized by UNESCO, the city stands out for its elegant architecture and surrounding nature. From riverside walks to wine tastings and museum visits, Bordeaux offers a refined cultural experience.
  • Marseille’s Old Port at twilight with docked sailboats, glowing ramparts, and the basilica overlooking the city.

    Marseille

    Marseille, France’s oldest city, embodies the Mediterranean’s spirit. Wander through its lively streets up to the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica and marvel at its stunning calanques. Do not miss the colourful Panier quarter or a taste of the city’s famous bouillabaisse.

Useful information

Official language(s)

French is the official language of the country. 

English is widely understood in big cities and tourist areas.

Flight duration

Direct flight: Approximately 7h 
Connecting flight: 10h to 15h (depending on connection times)

Time zone difference

France time zone: UTC+1 
6h ahead of Quebec (EST)   
6h ahead of Quebec (EDT)

Currency

Euro (EUR) 

Credit cards are widely accepted. We recommend keeping a bit of cash on hand for small purchases, tips, parking, markets, bakeries, and visits to small villages.

Tips

In France, tipping is not required but always appreciated. At restaurants, if service is not included, leaving 15% is customary. For taxi fares, we recommend 5% to 10%. For guides or hotel staff, €1 to €5 is appropriate.

Safety

Travellers should stay alert while visiting France. Petty theft and pickpocketing are common in busy tourist areas. It is best to keep money and valuables in an antitheft bag. 

Before any foreign trip, visit the Government of Canada’s France Travel Advice page to find out about the current situation in the country.

Top things to do and see

  • See Mont-Saint-Michel, on the border between Brittany and Normandy.

  • Take a romantic cruise along the Seine.

  • Enjoy a wine tasting in Burgundy.

  • Explore Versailles, its lavish palace, and breathtaking gardens.

  • Wander through the medieval city of Carcassonne.

Hidden gems to discover

  • The Lascaux Cave

    A must-see for history enthusiasts and art lovers, the Lascaux Cave is a 17,000-year-old treasure. Located in Dordogne, this UNESCO-listed site captivates visitors with its fascinating cave paintings—a true journey back to prehistoric time.

  • The Dune du Pilat

    The Dune du Pilat, located in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, is the highest sand dune in Europe. From its summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Landes Forest, the Arcachon Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Arguin Sandbank—a highlight for nature and landscape lovers.

  • The Auvergne Volcanoes

    Located in the heart of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, the Auvergne volcanoes form a spectacular chain of extinct volcanoes. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area is famous for its majestic craters, emerald lakes, thermal springs, and lush forests.

  • The Pont du Gard

    In Occitanie, in southern France, stands the world’s tallest Roman aqueduct: the Pont du Gard. This UNESCO World Heritage Site welcomes over a million visitors each year. Surrounded by garrigue, olive trees, and clear waters, the site is magnificent.

  • The Lascaux Cave

    A must-see for history enthusiasts and art lovers, the Lascaux Cave is a 17,000-year-old treasure. Located in Dordogne, this UNESCO-listed site captivates visitors with its fascinating cave paintings—a true journey back to prehistoric time.

  • The Dune du Pilat

    The Dune du Pilat, located in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, is the highest sand dune in Europe. From its summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Landes Forest, the Arcachon Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Arguin Sandbank—a highlight for nature and landscape lovers.

  • The Auvergne Volcanoes

    Located in the heart of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, the Auvergne volcanoes form a spectacular chain of extinct volcanoes. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area is famous for its majestic craters, emerald lakes, thermal springs, and lush forests.

  • The Pont du Gard

    In Occitanie, in southern France, stands the world’s tallest Roman aqueduct: the Pont du Gard. This UNESCO World Heritage Site welcomes over a million visitors each year. Surrounded by garrigue, olive trees, and clear waters, the site is magnificent.

Highlights

  • Vast cultural heritage with museums and art collections among the finest in the world.

  • Diverse natural landscapes and a varied climate, from the sunny Mediterranean coast to the snow-covered Alpine resorts.

  • Gastronomy recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

  • Cradle of the French language and heart of francophone culture.

Keep in mind

  • The French consider greetings a fundamental mark of respect. Always greet staff with “Bonjour” (hello) or “Bonsoir” (good evening) when entering a restaurant or a store.

  • Meal times in France differ from those in North America. Dinner is typically served later, usually between 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m.

  • Theft of rental cars or their contents is common near southern beaches and at highway rest stops. We recommend keeping all valuables out of sight.

Top pick

“The French Riviera completely won me over with its hilltop villages, colourful markets, and pebble beaches lining the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. From Monaco’s luxury to the elegance of cities such as Nice, every stop offers a unique and unforgettable experience.”

Jackie Michaud Travel Counsellor, Québec Travel Centre (Sainte-Foy)

Local food and gastronomy

  • Croissants and viennoiseries

    Golden, buttery, and irresistibly flaky, French viennoiseries are pure indulgence. Croissants, pains au chocolat, and apple turnovers are timeless favourites—perfect for breakfast or a sweet break in an artisan bakery.

  • Parisian macarons

    An absolute classic of Parisian patisserie, macarons perfectly embody French elegance and refinement. With their crisp shells and velvety filling, they offer a texture like no other. They come in a rainbow of colours and flavours—vanilla, strawberry, lemon, chocolate, pistachio, and many more.

  • French baguette

    With its thin, long shape; golden crispy crust; and soft, airy crumb, the French baguette is simply irresistible. You can enjoy this traditional bread at any time of day with butter, jam, cheese, or charcuterie. A symbol of French conviviality and culinary tradition.

  • Cassoulet

    Cassoulet, a traditional dish from southwestern France, is a slow-cooked stew of white beans, duck confit, sausage, and sometimes pork. Simmered in an earthenware pot, it reveals the French countryside’s rich, comforting, and generous flavours.

  • Foie gras and champagne

    Foie gras is a southwestern France delicacy made with duck or goose liver delicately seasoned and slowly cooked. Its velvety texture and rich flavours pair beautifully with champagne’s crisp effervescence.

  • Niçoise salad

    A signature dish of Nice and Provençal cuisine, Niçoise salad combines fresh vegetables, hard-boiled eggs, tuna, and anchovies. Topped with a drizzle of olive oil, it captures the freshness and generosity of Mediterranean flavours.

  • Pastis

    Pastis is a Provençal aperitif made with anise and licorice. Served in a glass with four to six parts of cold water, it reveals a smooth, refreshing taste. Pair it with savoury olives, tapenade, or peanuts to balance its gentle aniseed flavours.

Good to know

  • In France, coffee terminology differs from that in Quebec. If you want a larger cup of coffee, ask for an “American coffee” (or “café allongé”). Otherwise, you will typically be served an espresso.
  • In French restaurants, servers bring only one bill per table, regardless of the number of guests. Servers do not split the check—it is up to the clients to do so themselves.
  • Ordering a drink or meal on a terrace will usually cost more than dining indoors, especially in Paris.
  • It is advisable to explore Corsica counterclockwise, starting from Bastia, so you stay on the seaside lane and enjoy the best scenic views along the way.
  • Tourist sites in Nice are easily accessible by buses and small trains. Because it is a small city, it is also perfect for discovering on foot.

What to bring back?

  • A soap from Marseille

  • A jar of Dijon mustard

  • An umbrella from Cherbourg

  • A handcrafted tablecloth from Provence

  • A retro poster or postcard

Frequently asked questions

The best time to visit France is during spring, from April to June. The weather is pleasant, tourist attractions are less crowded, and many gardens are in full bloom. 

Autumn, particularly September and October, is also a great time to explore France. The fall colours are stunning, there are fewer tourists, and it is the season of grape harvests in wine regions. 

During summer, tourist sites are often packed, prices are higher, and many locals go on vacation—meaning some shops and restaurants may be closed.

In France, the high-speed train (TGV) is the fastest and most convenient way to travel between major cities. For getting around within cities, public transportation—such as buses and the metro—is efficient and affordable. If you are planning to explore the countryside, small villages, or the mountains, renting a car is highly recommended for greater flexibility and access.

10 to 14 days. 

It offers the perfect balance between exploring major cities and discovering regional highlights.

  • Cannes Film Festival, in May, for approximately 12 days. As the most prestigious film festival in the world, it is a unique chance to spot celebrities on the red carpet, soak in the glamorous atmosphere, and even watch free outdoor film screenings. Even without tickets, the experience is well worth the trip.

  • Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival, held each October in Paris’s Montmartre district. This week-long festival celebrates the grape harvest from the Montmartre vineyard. Enjoy wine tastings, regional food, parades, concerts, and a joyful mix of culture, gastronomy, and tradition.

  • Nice Carnival, during two weeks in February. One of Europe’s largest and most colourful carnivals, it features vibrant parades, elaborate floats, dazzling costumes, live music, and the famous Flower Battle along the Promenade des Anglais. It is a perfect way to soak up Nice’s culture and the Mediterranean lifestyle’s charm.

  • Alsace Christmas Markets, mainly in Strasbourg, Colmar, and Mulhouse, from late November to late December. Those Christmas markets are among the most magical in Europe. Twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a cozy atmosphere transform the towns into a winter wonderland. Expect Alsatian delicacies, handmade crafts, and plenty of family-friendly activities.

Destinations worth a visit in this part of the world

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Getting ready for your trip

These destinations could easily become your next favourites.

The world is full of wonders waiting to be discovered. After exploring the beauty of France, let yourself be captivated by new places that promise unforgettable experiences.