Visiting France can be a delightful, yet slightly overwhelming endeavour. As a country that boasts a seemingly endless list of cultural, historical and culinary experiences, it can be hard to know which must-see attractions to include on your itinerary, and those you might prefer to save for your next trip to France. 

To help you plan your upcoming trip, here are some of our favourite activities and attractions that are well worth it if you want an unforgettable French experience. 

• Pay a visit to ‘la tour Eiffel’ – It goes without saying, but every visitor to Paris absolutely must become acquainted with this architectural masterpiece that is one of the most instantly recognisable structures in the world. While you’ll be able to catch glimpses of the famous tower from numerous locations around Paris, it’s worthwhile paying a visit to the tower itself. Drop into a patisserie, grab a takeaway baguette and plant yourself in the surrounding parklands while taking in both the tower and the atmosphere. 

• Stroll along the Champs-Élysées – Set off from the Tuileries Gardens and slowly stroll along the Champs-Élysées to take in the sights and sounds of one the most famous avenues in the world. The avenue will eventually lead you to the Arc de Triomphe, which if you’re willing to climb the 284 steps, will reward you with breathtaking views across Paris. 

• Explore Montmartre – To get a slightly different perspective of Paris, Montmartre showcases the more bohemian side of Paris with its narrow winding streets, cafés and artistic vibe. While there, make sure you also pay a visit to the Sacre-Cœur Basilica where you’ll encounter stunning panoramic views across Paris. 

• Take a tour of a wine region – Whether it’s Bordeaux, Burgundy or Champagne, exploring one of France’s world-renowned wine regions is a coveted experience that will deliver an authentic taste of France. Take a vineyard tour, sample the local wines and immerse yourself in the world of French viticulture. 

• Become acquainted with the Palace of Versailles – A magnificent masterpiece of French Baroque architecture, the Palace of Versailles with its rich history and stunning gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can gain an insight into five centuries of French history. Discover attractions like the Hall of Mirrors and the King’s Grand Apartments, or gain access to some of the lesser-known locations within the palace by joining a guided tour. 

• Relax on the French Riviera – From the beaches of Nice or Cannes to the charming streets of Saint-Tropez, the French Riviera (or Côte d’Azur) is famed for its glamorous coastal cities, bright blue waters and sun-kissed beaches. While the region is synonymous with luxury, there are ways to enjoy its beauty without spending a fortune by choosing budget-friendly accommodation, sticking to public transport and opting for free or low-cost activities such as beach visits or exploring the local markets. 

Climate 

France experiences a diverse range of climates due to its varied geography, but generally has a temperate climate with distinct seasons.  

In the northern regions, including Paris, winters can be cool with occasional snowfall, while summers are mild to warm. The southern regions, such as Provence and the French Riviera, enjoy a Mediterranean climate characterised by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Mountainous areas, such as the Alps and Pyrenees, have alpine climates with colder temperatures and significant snowfall in winter. 

Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) are usually good times to visit France. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant with mild temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season (July and August). 

Culture and language 

The official language of France is French (Français). French is spoken by the majority of the population, however, several regional languages such as Breton, Occitan, Alsatian and Corsican are spoken in specific areas. 

Many French people are accustomed to interacting in English in urban areas such as Paris, Nice and Lyon and you can generally find English speakers in hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions. Learning a few basic phrases in French and ensuring you have access to a translation app can be helpful and appreciated by many of the locals. 

The culture of France is rich and diverse and has made profound contributions to art, literature, philosophy and cuisine. The French take pride in their language, and cultural activities such as cinema, fashion and music are integral parts of national identity. Additionally, France is known for its emphasis on socialising, with café culture playing a significant role in daily life.  

French culture also strongly emphasises intellectual pursuits, and the concept of “joie de vivre” (or the joy of living) reflects an appreciation for the finer things in life and a focus on quality experiences.  

Getting around 

Major cities in France typically have well-developed public transportation systems, including efficient metro and bus networks. In cities like Paris and Lyon, the metro is a fast and convenient way to get around. Buses, taxis and ride-sharing services can also be a great way to get around, however, traffic in locations such as Paris can be notoriously challenging. Walking and bike-sharing programs are other popular options that allow you to explore the city and various landmarks at a leisurely pace.  

For inter-city travel, the high-speed train (TGV) is a popular choice, connecting major cities quickly and comfortably. Renting a car can be ideal for exploring rural regions or picturesque countryside, providing flexibility and access to charming villages. 

Accommodation 

You’ll find various accommodation options throughout France including hotels, bed and breakfasts, private holiday home rentals, backpacker hostels and guest houses. Gîtes, which are holiday cottages or self-catering accommodation, are also common in more rural areas. 

Accommodation can be expensive in some locations in France, so it’s worthwhile doing your research to find the most suitable option/s. 

Entry requirements 

France forms part of the Schengen Area, a group of European countries which allows Australians to travel freely for tourism purposes without a visa for up to 90 days. 

It’s always a good idea to visit the Australian government’s Smartraveller website and the website for your closest French embassy before your trip for the latest information and updates about travelling to France. 

All set for your trip to France?  

Make sure you’ve ticked these items off your checklist before you head off: 

• Check your passport is valid with at least 6 months of validity left from the date you plan to leave the country 

• Ensure you meet the visitor entry requirements for France 

• Speak to your doctor to find out if you require any travel vaccinations 

• Arrange a travel currency card or another method of payment to cover expenses while you’re away. It’s also a good idea to take some Euro (EUR) with you as some places may prefer cash payments 

• Notify your financial institution of your plans to travel 

• Contact your phone provider to ensure your phone plan will cover you while you’re away or purchase a pre-paid international sim card 

• Arrange accommodation for each location you plan to stay in 

• Consider booking any tours or activities you want to do in advance – this is particularly important if you want to access major attractions like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre museum, the Palace of Versailles or Musée d’Orsay during peak tourist season, as tickets can book out well in advance 

• Provide details of your travel plans to a family member or close friend not travelling with you so you can be contacted in case of an emergency 

• Research the local laws as some rules can vary from what you may be used to in Australia – for example, in France it’s illegal not to offer help to a person in danger, even as a tourist 

• Save the details of how to access emergency consular assistance in case you need it 

• Organise your travel insurance with PassportCard.