Best Places To Travel In France

1.Paris(Capital Of France)

Paris

Paris, the capital of France, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, culture, and iconic landmarks. Often called “The City of Light,” Paris is famous for its stunning architecture, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum. The city is a global center for art, fashion, and cuisine, attracting millions of visitors each year.

France, located in Western Europe, is known for its diverse landscapes, from the beaches of the French Riviera to the vineyards of Bordeaux and the Alps’ majestic peaks. It has a rich cultural heritage and is renowned for its contributions to art, science, and philosophy. The country boasts a high quality of life and is famous for its culinary traditions, including wine, cheese, and pastries.

Best Months to Visit

  • April to June: Springtime in Paris is charming, with pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and fewer tourists than in the summer. It’s an excellent time to enjoy outdoor cafes, gardens, and walking around the city.

  • September to October: Fall offers mild weather and beautiful autumn colors. The city is less crowded than in summer, and it’s a great time for cultural events and exploring Parisian neighborhoods.

  • March and November: These shoulder months can also be a good time to visit, with fewer tourists and more affordable prices. The weather might be a bit unpredictable, but you can still enjoy many indoor attractions

Open Days And Timing

  • Eiffel Tower:

    • Hours: Typically 9:00 AM to 12:45 AM (midnight)
    • Closed: Rarely closed, but maintenance work can occasionally affect hours.

  • Louvre Museum:

    • Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (closed on Tuesdays)
    • Evening Hours: Open until 9:45 PM on Wednesdays and Fridays.

  • Notre-Dame Cathedral:

    • Hours: 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM (closed on some holidays)
    • Note: Restoration work is ongoing, so access may be limited.

  • Musée d’Orsay:

    • Hours: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM (closed on Mondays)
    • Evening Hours: Open until 9:45 PM on Thursdays.

  • Château de Versailles:

    • Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM (closed on Mondays)
    • Gardens: Open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

  • Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur Basilica:

    • Basilica Hours: 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM
    • Sacré-Cœur Dome: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (summer), 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (winter).

Ticket 

Eiffel Tower:

  • Tickets: Available online through the official Eiffel Tower website or at ticket offices on-site.
  • Types: Summit tickets, second floor tickets, and priority access options.
  • Tips: Booking in advance online is recommended to avoid long lines.

Louvre Museum:

  • Tickets: Can be purchased online through the official Louvre website or at the museum’s entrance.
  • Types: Standard entry, guided tours, and special exhibitions.
  • Tips: Free admission on the first Saturday of each month in the evening and for EU residents under 26.

Musée d’Orsay:

  • Tickets: Available online or at the museum entrance.
  • Types: Standard entry, combined tickets with other museums, and guided tours.
  • Tips: Free admission on the first Sunday of each month.

Château de Versailles:

  • Tickets: Can be purchased online through the official Château de Versailles website or at the site.
  • Types: Passport ticket (includes palace, Trianon, and gardens), garden tickets, and special event tickets.
  • Tips: Booking in advance online is advisable to skip the line.

Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur Basilica:

  • Tickets: Entry to the basilica is free, but the dome and crypt require tickets.
  • Types: Dome access, crypt entry, and guided tours.
  • Tips: No need for tickets to visit the basilica itself, but for the dome, buy tickets on-site or online.

Near By Location

Versailles:

  • Distance: About 20 km (12 miles) southwest of Paris.
  • Highlight: Château de Versailles, renowned for its opulent palace and expansive gardens.
  • Travel Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes by train (RER C).

Giverny:

  • Distance: About 75 km (47 miles) west of Paris.
  • Highlight: Claude Monet’s home and gardens, including the famous water lily pond.
  • Travel Time: Around 45 minutes by train to Vernon, then a short bus or taxi ride.

Fontainebleau:

  • Distance: About 55 km (34 miles) southeast of Paris.
  • Highlight: Château de Fontainebleau, a historical royal residence surrounded by a beautiful forest.
  • Travel Time: About 40 minutes by train (RER D).

Chantilly:

  • Distance: About 50 km (31 miles) north of Paris.
  • Highlight: Château de Chantilly, known for its stunning architecture and the Musée Condé.
  • Travel Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes by train.

Provins:

  • Distance: About 85 km (53 miles) southeast of Paris.
  • Highlight: A well-preserved medieval town with historic fortifications and charming streets.
  • Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by train.

Reims:

  • Distance: About 130 km (81 miles) northeast of Paris.
  • Highlight: Known for its stunning cathedral and Champagne houses.
  • Travel Time: Approximately 45 minutes by train (TGV).

Rouen:

  • Distance: About 135 km (84 miles) northwest of Paris.
  • Highlight: A historic city with a beautiful medieval center and the Cathedral of Notre-Dame.
  • Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by train.

2.Provence

Lavender fields

Lavender fields

Provence, located in the southeastern part of France, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. One of its most iconic features is the lavender fields, which are especially famous for their breathtaking beauty and fragrant aroma.

Lavender Fields in Provence:

  • Season: The lavender fields are typically in full bloom from mid-June to mid-July, offering a mesmerizing display of purple hues against the backdrop of the Provençal countryside.
  • Location: The most famous areas for lavender fields are in the Luberon region, around Valensole Plateau, and near Sault.
  • Experience: Visiting the lavender fields allows you to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the countryside, with opportunities for photography, lavender-based products, and local festivals celebrating the harvest.
  • Highlights: In addition to the fields themselves, you can explore picturesque villages like Gordes and Roussillon, enjoy local lavender-themed products, and experience the region’s rich culinary and cultural traditions.

Best Months to Visit

The best time to visit the lavender fields in Provence is from mid-June to mid-July. This is when the lavender is in full bloom, creating a stunning landscape of vibrant purple fields. The peak bloom typically occurs in early to mid-July, so visiting during this period will offer the most picturesque views and the best photo opportunities.

Open Days And Timing

The lavender fields in Provence are natural attractions and don’t have specific “open days” or hours like traditional tourist sites. You can visit them anytime during daylight hours, but the best experience is generally:

Visiting Hours:

  • Best Time: Late June to mid-July, when the lavender is in full bloom.
  • Daylight Hours: Typically from sunrise to sunset.

Ticket 

There are no tickets required to visit the lavender fields in Provence as they are natural landscapes. You can freely explore the fields during the blooming season. However, there are a few things to consider:

1. Access and Parking:

  • Public Access: The lavender fields are generally accessible by car or bicycle. Look for designated parking areas or roadside spots near the fields.
  • Private Land: Some fields may be on private property. While many owners welcome visitors, it’s respectful to stick to public paths and avoid disturbing crops.

2. Guided Tours:

  • Tours: If you prefer a guided experience, many local tour companies offer lavender field tours. These can include transportation, guided explanations, and visits to additional local attractions or lavender-related sites.
  • Booking: You can book these tours in advance through local tourism websites or tour operators.

3. Local Attractions:

  • Additional Costs: While visiting the fields themselves is free, you might want to explore nearby attractions, such as lavender distilleries, local markets, and villages, which might have entry fees or costs associated with tours or tastings.

Near By Location

1. Gordes:

  • Distance: About 30 km (19 miles) from Valensole.
  • Highlights: A picturesque hilltop village known for its stunning stone architecture and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

2. Roussillon:

  • Distance: About 20 km (12 miles) from Gordes.
  • Highlights: Famous for its vibrant ochre cliffs and colorful buildings. The town also offers charming streets and excellent views over the Luberon.

3. Apt:

  • Distance: About 25 km (15 miles) from Roussillon.
  • Highlights: Known for its lively market, historic architecture, and as a gateway to the lavender fields.

4. Valensole Plateau:

  • Distance: About 20 km (12 miles) from the main lavender fields.
  • Highlights: Known for its expansive lavender fields, this area is ideal for experiencing the lavender bloom and local lavender-based products.

5. Aix-en-Provence:

  • Distance: About 90 km (56 miles) from the lavender fields.
  • Highlights: A vibrant city known for its elegant architecture, charming markets, and cultural attractions.

6. Montagne Sainte-Victoire:

  • Distance: About 50 km (31 miles) from Aix-en-Provence.
  • Highlights: A beautiful mountain with hiking trails and stunning views, famously depicted in the works of painter Paul Cézanne.

7. Bonnieux:

  • Distance: About 30 km (19 miles) from Gordes.
  • Highlights: A charming village with narrow streets, historical sites, and panoramic views of the Luberon Valley.

8. Sénanque Abbey:

  • Distance: About 15 km (9 miles) from Gordes.
  • Highlights: A picturesque Cistercian abbey surrounded by lavender fields. It’s a great spot to photograph both the abbey and the lavender in bloom.

9. Lourmarin:

  • Distance: About 30 km (19 miles) from Gordes.
  • Highlights: A beautiful village known for its Renaissance architecture and vibrant arts scene.

10. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie:

  • Distance: About 80 km (50 miles) from Valensole.
  • Highlights: A stunning village set against a dramatic rocky backdrop, famous for its pottery and scenic beauty.

2.Bordeaux river

Bordeaux river

Bordeaux river

The Bordeaux River, more commonly known as the Garonne River, is a prominent feature of the city of Bordeaux in southwestern France. Here are some key points about the Garonne River:

Garonne River:

  • Course: The Garonne River flows through the city of Bordeaux and continues to the Atlantic Ocean, where it merges with the Dordogne River to form the Gironde Estuary.
  • Significance: The river has been central to Bordeaux’s development, serving as a major trade route and contributing to the city’s prosperity.
  • Promenade: The riverbanks in Bordeaux are lined with scenic promenades, parks, and landmarks, making it a popular spot for walking and leisure. The Place de la Bourse and the Miroir d’Eau, a large reflecting pool, offer beautiful views of the river.
  • Cultural Impact: The Garonne is integral to Bordeaux’s identity, with historical and architectural landmarks such as the Pont de Pierre bridge spanning the river.

Best Months to Visit

The best time to visit Bordeaux largely depends on your preferences for weather and activities:

1. May to October:

  • Weather: Warm, pleasant temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This period offers the best weather for exploring the city and surrounding wine regions.
  • Events: Many festivals and events take place during these months, including wine festivals and outdoor activities. Bordeaux also enjoys longer daylight hours, which is great for sightseeing.

2. September and October:

  • Harvest Season: These months are particularly special for wine enthusiasts as it’s grape harvest time in the Bordeaux wine region. You can experience the wine-making process and participate in harvest-related events.
  • Weather: The weather is generally still warm but with fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months.

3. April and November:

  • Weather: Mild temperatures and fewer crowds make these shoulder seasons ideal for a more relaxed visit. However, be prepared for some rain, especially in November.
  • Events: In April, you can enjoy blooming spring flowers, while November may offer quieter experiences and lower prices.

4. December to February:

  • Weather: Cooler temperatures, ranging from 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F), and shorter days. It’s a good time for those who prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind cooler weather.
  • Festivities: December includes holiday decorations and Christmas markets, adding a festive touch to the city.

Open Days And Timing

Bordeaux is a city with numerous attractions, and opening days and times can vary. Here’s a general overview of common timings for some key sites:

1. La Cité du Vin (Wine Museum):

  • Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
  • Late Hours: Open until 8:00 PM on Thursdays.
  • Closed: January 1 and May 1.

2. Bordeaux Wine and Trade Museum:

  • Hours: Typically open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
  • Closed: Mondays, January 1, and May 1.

3. Place de la Bourse and Miroir d’Eau:

  • Hours: The Place de la Bourse is always open, and the Miroir d’Eau is accessible throughout the day. It’s particularly beautiful at dusk and after dark.

4. Bordeaux Cathedral (Saint-André Cathedral):

  • Hours: Usually open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
  • Closed: For services, usually in the morning and sometimes in the evening.

5. Palais Rohan (City Hall):

  • Hours: Typically open for visitors on weekdays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Tours may need to be booked in advance.

6. CAPC Musée d’Art Contemporain (Contemporary Art Museum):

  • Hours: Open from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
  • Closed: Mondays and January 1.

7. Jardin Public:

  • Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM (hours can vary by season).

8. Bordeaux Historical Museum:

  • Hours: Open from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
  • Closed: Mondays and January 1.

9. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux:

  • Hours: Open from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
  • Closed: Mondays and January 1.

 

Ticket 

1. La Cité du Vin (Wine Museum):

  • Tickets: Available online through the official La Cité du Vin website or at the museum entrance.
  • Types: Standard entry, guided tours, and wine tasting packages.
  • Tips: Booking tickets in advance online can help you avoid long lines.

2. Bordeaux Wine and Trade Museum:

  • Tickets: Purchase online or at the museum.
  • Types: Includes entry to exhibitions and sometimes guided tours.

3. Bordeaux Cathedral (Saint-André Cathedral):

  • Tickets: Entry is generally free, but there may be a small fee for certain areas or guided tours.
  • Types: Donations are welcome, and some special services or events might require tickets.

4. Palais Rohan (City Hall):

  • Tickets: Tours usually need to be booked in advance. Check with the Bordeaux Tourist Office or Palais Rohan for booking details.

5. CAPC Musée d’Art Contemporain (Contemporary Art Museum):

  • Tickets: Available at the museum or online.
  • Types: Standard entry, guided tours, and special exhibitions.

6. Bordeaux Historical Museum:

  • Tickets: Purchase at the museum or possibly online.
  • Types: Includes entry to exhibitions.

7. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux:

  • Tickets: Available at the museum.
  • Types: Standard entry and sometimes special exhibition tickets.

8. Jardin Public:

  • Tickets: The garden is free to enter.

Near By Location

Bordeaux is well-positioned for exploring several nearby destinations, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. Here are some notable places to visit near Bordeaux:

1. Saint-Émilion:

  • Distance: About 40 km (25 miles) east of Bordeaux.
  • Highlights: A picturesque medieval village famous for its exceptional vineyards and wine. Explore its charming streets, historic monolithic church, and enjoy wine tastings.

2. Arcachon:

  • Distance: About 70 km (43 miles) west of Bordeaux.
  • Highlights: Known for its beautiful beaches, the Dune du Pilat (the tallest sand dune in Europe), and the charming seaside town atmosphere.

3. Médoc:

  • Distance: About 50 km (31 miles) north of Bordeaux.
  • Highlights: Renowned wine region with many prestigious vineyards and châteaux. It’s ideal for wine tours and tastings.

4. Cap Ferret:

  • Distance: About 70 km (43 miles) west of Bordeaux, on the Atlantic coast.
  • Highlights: A relaxed coastal area known for its stunning beaches, seafood, and picturesque atmosphere.

5. La Rochelle:

  • Distance: About 190 km (118 miles) northwest of Bordeaux.
  • Highlights: A historic port city with charming architecture, a lively marina, and attractions like the old harbor and the aquarium.

6. Cognac:

  • Distance: About 120 km (75 miles) northeast of Bordeaux.
  • Highlights: Famous for its brandy, Cognac offers distillery tours, historical sites, and a picturesque town center.

7. Blaye:

  • Distance: About 60 km (37 miles) north of Bordeaux.
  • Highlights: Known for its impressive 17th-century fortifications (part of the Vauban fortifications) and the scenic Blaye-Côtes de Bordeaux wine region.

8. Sauternes:

  • Distance: About 50 km (31 miles) south of Bordeaux.
  • Highlights: Famous for its sweet white wine, Sauternes offers wine tours and tastings in a charming village setting.

9. Bergerac:

  • Distance: About 120 km (75 miles) southeast of Bordeaux.
  • Highlights: Known for its picturesque old town, historical sites, and local wines.

10. Pessac:

  • Distance: About 10 km (6 miles) south of Bordeaux.
  • Highlights: Home to several notable vineyards and the Château Pape Clément, a historic wine estate.

4.Loire Valley

Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is a picturesque region in central France, often referred to as the “Garden of France” due to its lush landscapes and historic charm. Here are some highlights:

Loire Valley:

  • Scenic Beauty: The valley is known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and the serene Loire River that meanders through the region, creating a picturesque landscape.
  • Châteaux: The region is famous for its stunning castles, including Château de Chambord, Château de Chenonceau, and Château de Amboise. Each château boasts unique architecture and historical significance.
  • Wine: The Loire Valley is a renowned wine-producing area, offering a variety of wines, including Sancerre, Vouvray, and Chinon. Wine tours and tastings are popular activities.
  • Historic Towns: Charming towns like Blois, Tours, and Saumur offer historic sites, quaint streets, and local markets.
  • Gardens: The valley features beautiful gardens, such as those at Château de Villandry, known for its meticulously designed Renaissance gardens.

Best Months to Visit

The best time to visit the Loire Valley depends on what you’re looking to experience, but generally, the following months are considered ideal:

1. May to September:

  • Weather: Warm temperatures, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), and generally pleasant conditions for exploring.
  • Highlights: This period offers lush landscapes and vibrant gardens. It’s also the best time for outdoor activities and visiting the famous châteaux and vineyards. The weather is ideal for enjoying the scenic beauty and exploring the historic towns.

2. June to August:

  • Peak Season: This is the height of tourist season, with the warmest weather and the longest days. Attractions are fully operational, and there are many festivals and events. However, it can be crowded, and accommodation prices are higher.

3. September:

  • Harvest Season: This is an excellent time to visit for wine enthusiasts, as it’s the beginning of the grape harvest. The weather remains warm, and the summer crowds have diminished, making it a more relaxed time to explore.

4. April and October:

  • Shoulder Seasons: These months offer mild weather and fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months. In April, you’ll see blooming flowers and spring greenery, while October offers the beauty of autumn foliage and grape harvest activities.

5. November to March:

  • Low Season: This period is cooler and can be rainy, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). Some attractions may have reduced hours or be closed, but it can be a quieter and more affordable time to visit if you don’t mind cooler weather.

Open Days And Timing

1. Château de Chambord:

  • Hours: Typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
  • Closed: January 1 and May 1.
  • Notes: The château may close earlier in winter months, so it’s best to check specific times for your visit.

2. Château de Chenonceau:

  • Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
  • Closed: January 1 and May 1.
  • Notes: Hours can vary slightly by season, so checking ahead is advisable.

3. Château d’Amboise:

  • Hours: Generally open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
  • Closed: January 1 and May 1.
  • Notes: Hours may be reduced in the winter months.

4. Château de Villandry:

  • Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
  • Closed: January 1 and May 1.
  • Notes: Garden hours can vary, so checking in advance is recommended.

5. Château de Blois:

  • Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
  • Closed: January 1 and May 1.
  • Notes: Hours may vary by season, and some areas may close earlier.

6. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours:

  • Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
  • Closed: Mondays and January 1.

7. Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire:

  • Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
  • Closed: January 1 and May 1.
  • Notes: Garden and château hours can vary; check ahead for specific times.

8. Clos Lucé (Leonardo da Vinci’s Residence):

  • Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
  • Closed: January 1 and May 1.
  • Notes: Closing times may be earlier in the off-season.

Ticket 

1. Château de Chambord:

  • Tickets: Available online through the official Château de Chambord website or at the entrance.
  • Types: Includes standard entry, guided tours, and audio guides. Prices may vary for adults, children, and groups.
  • Tips: Booking online can sometimes offer discounted rates or skip-the-line benefits.

2. Château de Chenonceau:

  • Tickets: Purchase online via the official Château de Chenonceau website or at the entrance.
  • Types: Standard entry, guided tours, and combination tickets with the gardens. Special rates are available for children and groups.

3. Château d’Amboise:

  • Tickets: Available online or at the château.
  • Types: Includes standard entry and audio guide options. Discounts are often available for children and groups.

4. Château de Villandry:

  • Tickets: Purchase online through the Château de Villandry website or at the entrance.
  • Types: Entry to the château and gardens, with options for guided tours. Discounts for children and groups.

5. Château de Blois:

  • Tickets: Available online or at the château entrance.
  • Types: Standard entry, audio guides, and combination tickets for multiple sites. Discounts for children and groups.

6. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours:

  • Tickets: Usually available at the museum.
  • Types: Includes standard entry. Many museums in France offer free entry on certain days or for specific age groups.

7. Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire:

  • Tickets: Purchase online or at the entrance.
  • Types: Includes entry to the château and gardens, with options for guided tours. Discounts available for children and groups.

8. Clos Lucé:

  • Tickets: Available online or at the site.
  • Types: Includes entry to the residence and the park. Discounts for children, families, and groups.

Near By Location

The Loire Valley is surrounded by several interesting destinations that are worth exploring. Here are some nearby locations you might enjoy:

1. Tours:

  • Distance: About 100 km (62 miles) east of Tours.
  • Highlights: A vibrant city known for its historical architecture, lively markets, and the beautiful Place Plumereau. The city also has several museums and gardens.

2. Saumur:

  • Distance: About 50 km (31 miles) west of Tours.
  • Highlights: Famous for its château, renowned wine production, and the Cadre Noir (a prestigious equestrian academy). The town also features picturesque streets and the Loire River.

3. Blois:

  • Distance: About 50 km (31 miles) south of Tours.
  • Highlights: Known for the Château de Blois, with its varied architectural styles and rich history. The town also offers charming streets and a vibrant cultural scene.

4. Chinon:

  • Distance: About 40 km (25 miles) southeast of Tours.
  • Highlights: Famous for its medieval château and its role in the Hundred Years’ War. Chinon is also known for its excellent wine and charming old town.

5. Amboise:

  • Distance: About 25 km (15 miles) southeast of Tours.
  • Highlights: Home to the Château d’Amboise, where Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years. The town also offers beautiful views over the Loire River.

6. Montsoreau:

  • Distance: About 30 km (19 miles) southwest of Saumur.
  • Highlights: Known for the Château de Montsoreau, which is uniquely situated on the banks of the Loire River and has an interesting history related to the French Renaissance.

7. Azay-le-Rideau:

  • Distance: About 30 km (19 miles) west of Tours.
  • Highlights: Famous for the Château d’Azay-le-Rideau, a Renaissance castle set in a picturesque park and lake.

8. Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire:

  • Distance: About 30 km (19 miles) east of Tours.
  • Highlights: Known for its stunning gardens and annual International Garden Festival.

9. La Charité-sur-Loire:

  • Distance: About 140 km (87 miles) south of Tours.
  • Highlights: A historic town with a beautiful abbey, charming streets, and a rich cultural heritage.

10. Sancerre:

  • Distance: About 120 km (75 miles) southeast of Tours.
  • Highlights: Renowned for its excellent wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc, and offers scenic views over the Loire River and vineyards.