Known for its spectacular cuisine, rolling landscapes and relaxed way of life, France is the perfect destination for a holiday or minibreak. However, you’ll want to ensure you really make the most of your time in this spectacular country.
Whether this is your first visit or you’re returning after multiple trips, you can enhance your experience by getting off the beaten track and doing things a little differently. For inspiration, take a look at these nine tips to help you make the most of your next trip to France:
1.See the lavender fields in Provence
Paris, Nice and Marseille might be amongst the most well-known tourist locations in France, but if you haven’t been to Provence yet, you’re certainly missing out. Famed for its lavender fields, the sights and scents here are out of this world. However, it doesn’t stop there. You’ll also find olive groves, pine forests and endless vineyards in the region.
While you’re in the area, be sure to take a trip to the Calanques. They’re France’s natural wonder and well worth the effort to get there. As a protected Natural Park, the area retains the natural beauty of the terrain, while the crystal-clear waters are a sight to behold. You’ll need to hike or travel by boat in order to reach them but, upon arrival, you’ll be treated to one of the most exquisite sights in Europe.
2.Relive History in Bayeux
If you want to explore France’s rich heritage, a trip to Bayeux should be your top priority. Not only can you get a glimpse of the famous Bayeux Tapestry, but you’ll also be surrounded by authentic historical buildings dating from the 13-18th century. Tour the sites of the Normandy landings and explore the Memorial de Caen and its 90 acres of gardens. ‘
You’ll also have the chance to visit one of the country’s most beloved places; Mont Saint Michel. The tiny island is packed with history, with a population of just 30 people. At low tide, you can walk to the island but, stay too long, and you’ll need to jump in a boat to make your way back to the mainland.
3.Travel with ID
If you want to visit major attractions and events, remember to carry photo ID with you at all times. France has increased security at public places and tourist attractions, so expect to wait in line and have your bags checked. In busy seasons, this can add some time to your trip, so be sure to adjust your schedule to accommodate this.
4.Eat at Local Restaurants
France is well-known for its spectacular cuisine and ingredients but, if you want to sample the best food, head for local eateries and family-run restaurants. Here, you’ll get to sample authentic French fare and exquisite French wine. What’s more – you can dine like a king for a fraction of the cost of major hotels and upscale restaurants. If you want to find the best places to go, ask a local resident for recommendations.
5.Head to the Loire Valley
Nestled in the central region of France, the Loire Valley spans around 800 sq. kilometres and is well worth a visit. Filled with chateaus and gardens, you’ll find numerous opportunities to explore the history and culture of the region. While the stunning architecture and local heritage might lead you to believe the Loire Valley is traditional, there’s an undoubtedly contemporary feel to the area. In this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll find sophisticated bars and luxury hotels to enjoy too.
6.Travel Differently
If you’re travelling from the UK, there are plenty of ways to get to France. Air travel can be the quickest option, but the ferry or the Eurostar enables you to get to your destination in any number of ways.
However, you don’t have to do things in the same way as everyone else. If you want to make the most of your time in France, why not try out a different mode of transport? When you take a motorbike tour across France, you can experience the country in a whole new way and explore a wider range of places. Whether you’re an experienced rider or fairly new to motorcyclists, you can gain experience on the rural roads of France and make sure your trip is one to remember.
7.Keep Local Customs in Mind
France is a large country and local customs can vary from one region to another. As you’re travelling around, be sure to keep this in mind. Many local businesses will close between 1 pm-2 pm in smaller towns, for example, but, in more rural locations, this can run from 12 pm-4 pm. When you’re planning your itinerary, be sure to check what the local schedules are so that you’re not left disappointed.
8.Book a Museum Pass
If you’ve yet to visit the Sainte-Chapelle Church, the Palace of Versailles or the Louvre and the Orsay Museums, there’s no doubt you’ll want to incorporate them into your next trip over to France. If so, plan ahead and book a museum pass in advance. As well as reducing your costs, a museum pass can give you fast-track access to attractions and minimise waiting times. This means you can gain admission more quickly and fit more into your itinerary, so it’s a great way to make the most of your time, particularly if you only have a few days to enjoy the best that France has to offer.
Fall in Love with France
With so much to see and do in France, it’s not surprising that it’s one of the most visited countries in the world. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a touring adventure or a romantic mini-break just for the two of you, France has everything you could wish for a more. By thinking outside the box and getting off the beaten track, you do something a little different with your time and truly make the most of this awe-inspiring and breath-taking part of the world.
