Why visit France?
France offers a blend of grand cities, charming villages, and coastal escapes, with a deep sense of style and history wherever you go. You can move from iconic landmarks to quiet countryside in a single journey.
What to expect
Paris sets the tone with world-renowned museums, elegant boulevards, and atmospheric neighbourhoods. Beyond the capital, regions such as Provence, the French Riviera, Normandy, and the Loire Valley each bring their own landscapes and character.
Plan your trip
You can combine time in Paris with day trips or short stays in nearby regions connected by rail and road. France also serves as a gateway to wider Europe, with high-speed trains and flights linking you easily to neighbouring countries.
Discover France
Discover France
Top experiences in France
Admire Paris landmarks
See the city from the banks of the River Seine as you explore sights such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and grand historic squares.
Stroll through Montmartre
Wander cobbled streets, artists’ squares, and hillside viewpoints in one of Paris’ most atmospheric neighbourhoods.
Cruise on the River Seine
Take a river cruise to see Paris’ bridges and monuments illuminated at night from a different perspective.
Visit world-class museums
Spend time in renowned museums and galleries, from vast collections of classic art to intimate modern spaces.
Explore French châteaux
Plan a day trip from Paris to discover elegant palaces and countryside estates set in landscaped gardens.
Relax in Parisian parks
Unwind in carefully landscaped gardens and leafy parks dotted with statues, ponds, and quiet corners.
Experience French café culture
Pause at pavement terraces for coffee, people-watching, and a glimpse of local daily life.
Experience France’s way of life
Getting around
From Paris, an extensive metro network, local buses, and trains make it simple to move between districts and suburbs. High-speed and regional trains link the capital with major French cities and nearby regions for easy day trips or longer stays.
Local life & culture
In France, daily life often centres on neighbourhood streets, local cafés, and community squares where people linger and talk. You will notice a strong appreciation for arts, design, and everyday rituals, from morning coffee to evening strolls.
Where to unwind
Across France you can find riverside promenades, urban parks, and tree-lined avenues that invite slow walks and quiet breaks. Coastal paths, countryside trails, and mountain landscapes offer fresh air and open views when you wish to step away from the city.
A taste of France
National dishes & specialties
France is known for rich regional cooking, from delicate pastries to hearty countryside classics and refined urban cuisine. Each region adds its own ingredients and traditions, giving you many flavours to try as you travel.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In cities across France, you will find relaxed bistros, cafés, and brasseries serving everything from traditional recipes to lighter, modern plates. Food streets, covered halls, and neighbourhood restaurants make it easy to enjoy varied flavours in one area.
Signature & scenic dining
You can seek out dining rooms with rooftop views, riverside terraces, or historic settings for a memorable meal. Many places focus on seasonal produce, carefully presented dishes, and thoughtfully designed spaces that encourage you to linger.
Retail therapy in France
Malls & lifestyle hubs
In Paris and other major cities, you will find grand department stores and modern shopping centres bringing together international brands and local designers. Many combine fashion, beauty, homeware, and dining in one convenient place.
Markets & local crafts
Across regions such as Provence, Brittany, and Alsace, markets showcase seasonal produce, handmade goods, and regional specialities. Smaller towns and city districts often host weekly markets where you can browse textiles, ceramics, and artisan products.
Evening retail scene
In France’s larger cities, key shopping streets and districts stay lively into the evening, with illuminated storefronts and late-opening boutiques on certain days. Around central squares and riverfront areas, you can pair an evening stroll with some relaxed browsing.
Best time to visit France
Peak season: June to August, when much of France enjoys warm summer weather. In Paris, average temperatures range from about 18°C to 26°C (64°F to 79°F), with long daylight hours and many outdoor events.
Shoulder season: April to May and September to October bring milder temperatures and fewer crowds. In Paris, you can expect around 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F), with blossom in spring and colourful foliage in autumn.
Low season: November to March is cooler and quieter, especially outside festive periods. Paris temperatures typically sit between 3°C and 10°C (37°F to 50°F), and you can enjoy indoor sights and museums in a calmer atmosphere.