Traveling to France with EF Ultimate Break
France serves “icon” in every way
Forever favorite: France consistently tops bucket lists for travelers seeking art, culture, and cuisine. From the Eiffel Tower to lavender fields, it’s the destination that delivers on every romantic expectation—and then some.
Instagram gold: Parisian cafes, centuries-old châteaux, and the French Riviera’s turquoise waters are made for your feed. Every corner is a photo op waiting to happen.
Food is an experience: French cuisine isn’t just about eating—it’s about savoring. Fresh pastries and bread, wine and champagne, cheese, and cozy bistro meals make every bite memorable.
Accessible luxury: France delivers high-end experiences—from château visits to wine tastings—without always requiring a high-end budget.
Year-round magic: Whether it’s summer on the Côte d’Azur, spring in Paris, fall in the Loire Valley, or winter in the Alps, France is a whole vibe in every season.
Language
French is the official language of France, spoken by virtually everyone in the country. While many people in tourist areas and larger cities speak English—especially younger generations—learning a few basic phrases will make your trip smoother and show respect for the local culture.
Currency & tipping culture
Money in France is straightforward, but knowing the basics will help you avoid surprises and show good etiquette. France uses the Euro (€), and while credit cards are widely accepted, cash is still preferred for small purchases and in rural areas. Tipping isn’t mandatory but is appreciated as a gesture of good service.
- France uses the Euro (€).
- Banknotes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500. Coins: €0.01 to €2.
- Credit cards are usually accepted, but carry cash for small purchases, markets, or rural areas.
- ATMs are common—watch for those withdrawal and conversion fees!
Tipping tips:
- Restaurants & cafes: Service is usually included (service compris), but rounding up or leaving 5–10% for excellent service is appreciated.
- Bars: Small change or rounding up is fine.
- Taxis: Not required; rounding up to the nearest euro is polite.
- Hotels: €1–2 per bag for porters; €2–5 per day for housekeeping.
- Tour guides: Around €5–10 per person for a day tour.
Transportation
Getting around France is generally easy, with excellent public transit, high-speed trains, and well-connected cities. Paris has one of the best metro systems in the world, while regional trains make exploring the countryside simple. Taxis and rideshares are widely available in cities, and renting a car is ideal for exploring rural areas like Provence or the Loire Valley.
Paris has an efficient metro, buses, and trams. Tickets are inexpensive and can be purchased at stations or kiosks. Other cities like Lyon, Marseille, and Nice also have reliable public transit.
France’s TGV (high-speed train) network connects major cities quickly and comfortably. Book in advance for the best prices.
Widely available in cities. Apps like Uber and Bolt are popular alternatives to traditional taxis.
Many cities offer bike-sharing programs (like Vélib’ in Paris), perfect for exploring at your own pace.
France’s iconic destinations
Buzzing cities, quaint seaside villages, wine-country estates, towering mountains—France has something for everyone.
Can’t-miss French experiences
Cruise the Seine River
See Paris from a different angle on a Seine River cruise. Glide past Notre-Dame, the Musée d’Orsay, and under historic bridges while soaking in the city’s romantic atmosphere.
See the Eiffel Tower irl
You’ve seen it in a thousand photos, but nothing compares to standing beneath the iron lattice of Paris’s most iconic landmark. Whether you’re picnicking on the Champ de Mars or catching the sparkling light show at night, the Eiffel Tower hits different in person.
Wander the Louvre
Home to the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and thousands of other masterpieces, the Louvre is an art nerd’s paradise. Even if you’re not into museums, the sheer scale and history of this former royal palace make it worth a visit.
Explore the French Riviera
The Côte d’Azur is where glamour meets the Mediterranean. Stroll the Promenade des Anglais in Nice, wander the old town of Antibes, or soak up the sun on the beaches of Cannes. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation and sophistication.
Sip champagne in Champagne
There’s only one place in the world where true Champagne comes from, and that’s the Champagne region of France. Tour historic cellars, learn the art of champagne-making, and taste bubbly straight from the source in the rolling vineyards where it all began.
Visit a Loire Valley château
Step into a fairy tale at one of the Loire Valley’s stunning châteaux. From the grand Château de Chambord to the elegant Château de Chenonceau, these Renaissance palaces are straight out of a storybook.
Experience Provence’s lavender fields
In summer, Provence transforms into a purple paradise. Walk through endless lavender fields, visit charming hilltop villages, and breathe in the fragrant air of southern France.
What’s the weather like in France?
June–August
Warm weather (68–86 °F) and long days make this time perfect for beach trips to the French Riviera and outdoor festivals. Expect busy tourist sites, higher prices, and vibrant energy—especially in July and August when locals take their own vacations.
April–June & September–October
Pleasant temperatures (59–77 °F), fewer crowds, and lower prices. Perfect for exploring cities, wine regions, and countryside. Spring brings blooming gardens and fall delivers harvest season in wine country.
November–March
Lower accommodation costs (up to 40% off), minimal crowds, and authentic local experiences in Paris and other cities. Cool or cold days (30s–50s °F), occasional rain, and shorter daylight hours. Winter means Christmas markets, ski season in the Alps, and a more intimate side of France.
When is the cheapest time to visit France?
If you’re looking to experience France without the peak-season crowds or peak-season prices, you’re in luck—France has generous windows for budget-friendly travel. Here’s when you’ll get the best deals.
What to eat in France?
Anything and everything! You may have heard, but food in France is kind of a big deal.
Safety in France
France is generally a safe destination for travelers, with millions visiting each year to explore its cities, countryside, and coastlines. Violent crime is rare, and tourist areas are well-monitored. Like any popular destination, petty theft can occur in crowded spots—especially around major attractions, metro stations, on trains, and busy markets—but staying aware of your surroundings and keeping valuables secure usually keeps you in the clear.
Your safety is our top priority
Traveling with EF Ultimate Break means you’re not exploring France alone—you’ve got a full support system making sure you feel comfortable, informed, and protected every step of the way.
Traveler photos from France
France travel reviews
Our travelers love visiting France, and they aren’t afraid to tell us.
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