French food ranges from the humble to the sublime. Begin each day with a fresh croissant, build a picnic from a market of cheese, charcuterie and a warm baguette, and dine on regional classics like coq au vin or bouillabaisse.
Every region has its specialities and its wines — Burgundy and Bordeaux reds, Loire whites, Alsace rieslings and, of course, Champagne.
Take your time over meals, as the French do. A long, well-paced dinner is one of the country great pleasures.
📌 Practical info
| 💶 Currency | Euro (EUR) |
| 🗣️ Language | French |
| 🛂 Visa | EU member — passport-free for EU/EEA |
| 🕐 Time zone | CET (UTC+1) |
| 🔌 Power plug | Type C/E, 230V |
❓ Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit France?
April-June and September-October are ideal — warm, less crowded than July-August. Paris is beautiful in spring; Provence in lavender season (June-July); Côte d'Azur summers; alpine winters.
Do I need a visa for France?
EU citizens — no. Schengen visa for non-EU (90 days in 180-day period). UK/US/Canada/Australia citizens: visa-free up to 90 days.
Is France expensive?
Paris and the Riviera are premium destinations. Rural Provence, Brittany and the Pyrenees offer excellent value. Budget €80-120/day mid-range, €40-60/day backpacker.
What's the best way to travel within France?
TGV high-speed trains connect major cities (Paris-Lyon 2h, Paris-Marseille 3h). Local TER trains for smaller towns. Rental car best for Provence/Loire/Dordogne.