Russia France

France covers 551,695 square kilometres and has a population of around 68 million people. Paris, the capital, is renowned for its art, fashion, and historical landmarks. France is very big on tourism and has maintained its spot as the most visited country in the world. France operates on Central European Time (GMT+1). As a European Union and Schengen Zone member, it allows seamless travel within Europe.

French cuisine is world-famous and known for its refinement and regional diversity. Classic dishes include boeuf bourguignon, beef cooked in red wine and cassoulet, beans, duck, pork, and sausages. French bakeries offer croissants, baguettes, and macarons, while desserts like crème brûlée and tarte tatin are must-tries.

France is the global leader in wine production, with regions like Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, and the Rhône Valley producing some of the finest wines. A visit to a vineyard or wine cellar is a highlight for many travellers. Local spirits like Cognac and Pastis are also popular.

France offers diverse outdoor adventures, including skiing in the Alps, hiking in the Pyrenees, and cycling in the Loire Valley. The French Riviera features beautiful Mediterranean beaches, while Dordogne and Provence are great for kayaking and hot-air ballooning. Mont-Saint-Michel in Normandy offers stunning views, and Gorges du Verdon is ideal for water sports and rock climbing.

France's landscapes range from snow-capped peaks to rolling vineyards and coastal cliffs. The Camargue wetlands are home to flamingos and wild horses, while the Verdon Gorge offers turquoise waters and dramatic canyons. The French Alps and Pyrenees attract hikers and skiers alike, and the Loire Valley features picturesque castles surrounded by lush greenery. The Calanques National Park near Marseille showcases stunning limestone cliffs along the Mediterranean coast.

France is home to world-renowned festivals. The Cannes Film Festival attracts the biggest names in cinema, while the Tour de France cycling race is a sporting spectacle. Bastille Day is the country’s biggest national celebration, featuring fireworks and parades. The Nice Carnival, one of Europe’s oldest, is a dazzling display of floats and costumes. The Fête de la Musique in June transforms cities into open-air concerts, while wine lovers can enjoy events like the Beaujolais Nouveau Festival in November.

France has a high standard of healthcare, and no specific vaccinations are required for entry. Standard immunisations such as Hepatitis A, Tetanus, and Measles are recommended. Travel insurance is important to have.

The official currency is the Euro (EUR).

France uses a 230-volt power supply with a 50 Hz frequency. The standard plug type is Type E, featuring two round pins.

France has one of the best transportation networks in Europe. Trains connect major cities at high speeds, making train travel efficient. Buses and domestic flights link smaller towns and rural areas. The Paris Metro is an excellent way to navigate the capital, while taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt operate in cities. Renting a car is a great option for exploring Provence, Normandy, or the Loire Valley. You can also do well with cycling around if you are travelling solo.

French is the official language, and while English is spoken in tourist areas, knowing basic French phrases can be helpful.

The French value politeness and respect for traditions. They have a strong set of values to which they adhere. This has made many think of the French as proud and rude. French are direct communicators, and they would rarely save face when engaged in conversation. Greetings are important, and saying "bonjour” upon entering shops and restaurants is customary. The dress sense in France is like no other; casual dressing is not common, except in summer

• Spring (March to May): Mild and pleasant. The deal is time for city walks, gardens, and wine tasting.

• Summer (June to August): Warm, sunny, and great for beach vacations, festivals, and outdoor dining.

• Autumn (September to November): This comes with cooler temperatures and vibrant autumn foliage, perfect for vineyard visits.

• Winter (December to February): Winter is cold with snow in the Alps, but it is great for skiing and Christmas markets.

France caters to all budgets. Budget travellers can expect to spend €50–80 per day, covering hostels, local transport, and street food. Mid-range travellers might spend €150–250 daily, enjoying boutique hotels and dining at restaurants. Luxury travellers can budget €300 or more per day for high-end accommodations, fine dining, and private tours. A museum pass in Paris costs around €50, while a TGV train ticket between major cities can range from €20–100, depending on the route.

• Visit the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Montmartre.

• You would enjoy traveling around cities if the metro is your go-to.

• If you are looking to have a memorable wine-tasting tour, September to November is the best time for you.

• When going to a public beach, make sure to pack appropriate kits with you.