France Travel Guide

France is renowned for its allure as a quintessential holiday destination full of historical gems, golden beaches and beautiful landscapes.

Officially the French Republic, France is a country in Western Europe, as well as several overseas regions and territories. The metropolitan area of France extends from the Mediterranean Sea to the English Channel and the North Sea, and from the Rhine to the Atlantic Ocean. The country has a population of over 67 million, its capital and largest city is Paris, and the official language is French.

Despite the geographic closeness to Ireland, France has its own distinctive culture and boasts many attractions. The French Riviera or Côte d'Azur offers warm weather, beautiful beaches, the glamour of Cannes, historical setting of St. Paul-de-Vence and the vibrant city of Nice. The Provence region has an impressive Roman legacy with its Amphitheatre and its city of Arles drew inspiration for Van Gough. Many renowned writers were inspired by the capital of Paris and you'll see why when you take a stroll along the Seine, marvel at the Eiffel Tower and admire the incredible artwork at the Louvre Museum.

Experience 'le joie de vivre', we've provided some useful information below to inspire your holiday to France.

Time Zone & Currency

France is one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) throughout the year. The currency in France is the Euro.

Weather In France

The South of France has a proven reputation for sun, with an average 2,500 hours per year. Most of Provence has a Mediterranean climate, experiencing hot, dry summers and mild winters, with plenty of sunshine.

Reading For Your Trip To France

Tender is the Night by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Naughty in Nice by Rhys Bowen

The Winner Stands Alone by Paulo Coelho

Best time to go to France

We believe the best time to visit France is either Spring (April to June) or in the Autumn (September to November) when it's less crowded and the weather is cooler.

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Top Tourist Attractions In France

Rothschild Villa & Gardens

Located in the French Riviera, it was designed by French architect Aaron Messiah for the baroness Béatrice de Rothschild. Completed in 1912, this Venetian style palace is surrounded by nine different gardens, including a main garden that contains a temple and musical fountains.

Pont d'Avignon

Also known as the Saint-Bénézet Bridge, this historic 12th century bridge held strategic importance as it used to be the only place between Mediterranean and Lyon to cross the river Rhone. It originally has 22 arches and only four of the original are still there today.

Eiffel Tower

An icon of France and one of the most recognisable landmarks in the world. Completed in 1889, it was designed by Gustave Eiffel to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the French revolution. Locals refer to it as ‘La dame de fer’, which means the Iron Lady.

Strasbourg Cathedral

The stunning city of Strasbourg is one of the stops on our Rhine River Cruises. Situated just across the German border, west of the Rhine. One of the highlights include its famous 15th century cathedral with its impressive spire and mediaeval astronomical clock.

Promenade des Anglais

The ‘Promenade des Anglais’, which means ‘Walkway of the English’, was named after the wealthy English aristocats who began holidaying in Nice in the late 18th century. The promenade runs along the beach and it’s a very popular place to enjoy a stroll along the seafront.

Arles Amphitheatre

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the amphitheatre in Arles is remarkably well preserved and is still in use today. Inspired by the Coliseum in Rome, it was built in 90AD during the reign of Augustus by the Romans and could hold up to 20,000 people who would watch chariot races and gladiator battles.

Top 5 reasons to visit French Riviera

The Côte d'Azur or the French Riviera in the South Eastern corner of France is home to some of the best-loved Gallic towns and cities. It has been the playground of the rich and famous since the 19th century and all of its allure remains.

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Virtual Tour of France

Our expert guide Anke takes us on a tour of France. From discovering the beautiful towns of the French Riviera to experiencing the amazing history and culture that the French region of Provence has to offer.

Food and drink in France

France is world famous for its fine cuisine and delicious wine. During your holiday you will be able to experience all the famous food and drink you’ve heard so much about, but with an authentic local twist and frequently at surprisingly affordable prices. Snails and fried frog legs are French delicacies, but if that does not take your fancy, try some French onion soup, steak tartare, or beef bourguignon. Southern French cooking is known for its fresh, vibrant colours and herby flavours. Bouillabaisse, salade Niçoise, crispy fried courgette flowers, lamb roasted with herbs and aromatic garlic are just a few of the specialities that will set your taste buds tingling, while locally produced rosé wines are a popular accompaniment