Is France Worth Visiting? 13 Reasons Why You Should!

From world-renowned monuments to delectable cuisine, France is an incredible destination. This beautiful country offers endless unforgettable experiences for travelers of all kinds. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure junkie, or just want to relax, you’ll be able to plan the perfect vacation in France.

But is France worth visiting? Is it worth all the hype?

I’ve been living in France for six years and I’ve explored every corner of this fascinating country. And I can confidently say France is worth visiting. So, if you’re on the fence about traveling to France, this post is for you. I’m going to cover all the reasons why France is worth visiting so that by the end of this article you’ll be able to decide for yourself.

Is France Worth Visiting?
Is France Worth Visiting?

Table of Contents

Is France Worth Visiting?

Yes! France is a stunning country and should be at the top of your list of places to visit. It’s full of cultural attractions, renowned food and wine, and alluring landscapes.

Spend a week in Paris touring the most outstanding museums or head to the snow-capped Alps for an incredible winter escape. You could even visit the beaches of Normandy or the Musée de la Reddition in Reims and learn about some of the most pivotal points in European history.

France is what you want it to be. It can be that luxurious summer holiday you’ve always wanted or a budget traveler’s dream. You can visit in winter or summer and find something that fits your ideal vacation. It’s a country with endless coastlines, towering mountains, and everything in between.

So, no matter what you’re looking for, France is a country well worth visiting.

13 Reasons Why You Should Visit France

1. Perfectly Preserved Villages

The Preserved Village of Eguisheim
Eguisheim!

From medieval villages to ancient walled towns, France makes a huge effort to preserve its heritage. Most of these villages lie in the shadows of more popular destinations like Paris or Lyon. But, if you’re willing to do a little research, you can find some hidden gems. My favorite towns are in Alsace. Here many of the houses are from the 15th and 16th centuries and remain intact. Strolling down the streets of towns like Eguisheim or Kaysersberg is like taking a step back in time. If this isn’t a reason to visit France, I don’t know what is.

Explore the perfectly preserved villages in Alsace with this epic tour!

2. Beautiful Beaches

Le Pen Bron Beach in French with a Lighthouse in the Distance
Pristine Beaches

There’s nothing like feeling the warm sun on your face, sand between your toes, and listening to the waves crash ashore. It’s a relaxing setting that you no doubt deserve. Whether you’re looking for long stretches of golden sand or a rugged coastline, France has it all. My favorite beaches are in Le Pen Bron, Les Sables-d’Olonne, and Narbonne. Of course, the beaches in the French Riviera are unbeatable!

I recommend this amazing tour of the French Riviera!

3. Vibrant Cities

Bustling Streets of Lyon
Bustling Streets of Lyon

If you’re looking for a vacation packed with big-city adventures, France is for you. From the bustling streets of Paris to the vibrant nightlife in Marseille, its urban scene is epic. In these popular cities, there is always something going on. You’ll find cultural excursions, meetups, and bars showcasing up-and-coming DJs. Visit Paris in the summer and dance your way through Fête de la Musique or spend three days in Lyon during the Festival of Lights. Either way, you won’t be disappointed.

Book your trip to France and see all the amazing sites around the country with this tour!

4. It’s Affordable

Entrance to the Rude Museum in Dijon
The Rude Museum in Dijon is Free!

One of the great things about France is that it is an affordable destination. If you plan ahead, you’ll find the country to be rather budget-friendly. Book trains, flights, and hotels in advance. And travel outside the tourist seasons. July and August are the most expensive times to travel in France. But, if you come in May or September, you’ll save a ton of money.

Also, consider doing free activities. Many cities like Dijon, Paris, and Lyon have free museums. It’s one of the many ways you can visit popular attractions without emptying your wallet.

You can book all your train tickets for your trip by clicking here.

5. Delicious Food

A Modern Take on Alsatian Food at Le Stras Restaurant in Strasbourg
French Cuisine Can’t Be Beat!

France is known for its incredible cuisine, and it’s no wonder why. With a range of flavors, textures, and preparative techniques, your taste buds will burst with flavor. Not only that but French chefs take pride in using only the freshest ingredients. They often shop at local markets, so you know you’re getting the best. Some of the best classical dishes include boeuf bourguignon and coq au vin. But if you want something more elegant, there’s no shortage of Michelin-starred restaurants.

For the best food tours, I recommend this tour company.

6. World-Class Shopping

Shopping in Paris
Shopping in Paris!

Often touted as the fashion capital of the world, France has been and continues to be at the forefront of the industry. Its role in fashion began as early as the 15th century. And today, Paris hosts the ever-impressive Paris Fashion Week. This exclusive show gathers top designers from around the world twice a year. And, for one week, they can showcase their latest creations.

In terms of shopping, you’ll find everything from luxury boutiques to vintage shops. Stroll down the Champs-Élysées or visit a market. Either way, you’re sure to find something that fits your style.

Book your trip to France and see all the amazing sites around the country with this tour!

7. Epic Wineries and Vineyards

The Rolling Vineyards in Alsace
Vineyards in Alsace!

From Bordeaux to Burgundy, France and wine are synonymous. And believe it or not but there are more than 200 varieties of grapes spread across the country.

So, why is the wine so good?

Well, to grow grapes, you need rich fertile soil. You also need a lot of sun and heavy rainfall. And, in France, there is a perfect balance. It creates a unique climate that allows the vineyards to flourish.

Of course, you can sample wine at any restaurant in France. But I recommend touring a vineyard or a wine cellar. And if you love champagne, spend a day in Reims. You won’t regret it!

Book an epic day in Reims with this amazing tour!

8. Abundance of Outdoor Activities

Hiking trail to Eguisheim's Three Castles
Hiking to Eguisheim’s Three Castles

One of the reasons why I love France is because there are an endless number of outdoor activities. It’s the perfect destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. From skiing in the Alps to paragliding in Reunion Island, there’s something for everyone. My favorite is hiking in the Vosges mountains. This underrated destination is full of beautiful viewpoints and pristine trails. Explore one of the charming villages in Alsace then hike to a castle in the Vosges. It’s an adventure like no other!

Book your trip to France and see all the amazing sites around the country with this tour!

9. Impressive Castles and Cathedrals

The Beautiful Reims Cathedral
The Reims Cathedral

From the Château de Versailles to Strasbourg’s Notre Dame Cathedral, France is home to some very impressive churches and castles. With centuries-old architecture and intricate designs, these buildings are nothing shy of majestic.

Some of the most beautiful churches in France include the Reims Cathedral and the Chartres Cathedral. Then, there’s an endless list of castles. My favorites are the Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg and Château de Fontainebleau.

Book your trip to France and see all the amazing sites around the country with this tour!

10. Spectacular Mountain Ranges

The Grand Ballon in the Vosges Mountains
Vosges Mountains

If you love to explore mountain vistas, then France is the ideal destination. From the lush forests of Jura to the snow-capped peaks of the French Alps, you’ll find some amazing mountain ranges here. Whether you’re looking for a day hike or a challenging climb, there’s something for everyone. I recommend renting a car in Strasbourg and driving through the Vosges mountains. There are trails for all levels and there are far fewer tourists than in the Alps.

If you’re looking to rent a car in France, I recommend and use Discover Cars. They search international and local companies to find you the best deals.

11. Amazing Museums

The Louvre Museum in Paris at Sunrise
The Louvre!

France is known for its rich cultural heritage and history. And one of the best ways to learn about it is to explore its museums. Whether you want to see work from Claude Monet or learn about ancient history, France has a museum for what you’re looking for.

Of course, a trip to the Louvre can’t be beat. But there’s also the Unterlinden Museum in Colmar and the Centre Pompidou in Metz. If there is a reason to visit France, its amazing museums should be one of them!

You can book all your tours and activities in France with this tour company.

12. Iconic Landmarks

Eiffel Tower at Sunrise
Eiffel Tower

There’s no denying that this country is brimming with cultural treasures. In fact, France is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks. From the Eiffel Tower to Omaha Beach, there’s not a monument that won’t leave you in awe. Spend a day in Paris or a week in eastern France. No matter what you choose, it’s impossible not to visit a famous landmark.

Book your trip to France and see all the amazing sites around the country with this tour!

13. Pleasant Weather

Beautiful Sunny Day in Bois de Vincennes in Paris
Beautiful Sunny Day in Bois de Vincennes

France has a range of climates. In general, summers can be hot, often reaching 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). Winters, on the other hand, can be cold with temperatures falling below 0 degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit). Then, there’s everything between.

The south has a Mediterranean climate and winters are very mild. On the west coast, you’ll find the summers are perfect for lying on the beach. Then, in the east, the cold winters are perfect for skiing. No matter what time of year you decide to visit, there’s a place in France perfect for what you’re looking for.

Book your trip to France and see all the amazing sites around the country with this tour!

Best Time to Visit France

France is a year-round destination. So, the best time to visit depends on the kind of experience you are looking for!

If you’re a fan of mild weather and outdoor activities, late spring and early summer are the best times to visit France. From April to June, the days are sunny but not scorching hot. And there’s little to no rainfall. This makes it the ideal time to explore cities like Lyon, Paris, Strasbourg, Nice, and Toulouse.

Alternatively, if you want to avoid big crowds, autumn is an excellent time to visit. The days are still warm and sunny but cooler temperatures make sightseeing more comfortable. Plus, the colorful foliage brings its own unique beauty to France.

The winter months in France are milder than you think! While temperatures do drop, there is still plenty to do during this time. In December, Christmas markets and festive decorations create a magical atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to celebrate the holiday season in style. Then, ski season starts in February. You can choose between the Alps, the Pyrenees, or the Vosges. Either way, you won’t be disappointed

Summer is also a great, especially if you are looking to experience some of the best beaches in France. The French Riviera is always a popular destination during this time, with plenty of beach resorts to choose from. You’ll find that prices are higher during this time of year. But don’t let that deter you! If you book your trip in advance, you’ll be able to find some deals.

How to Get Around France

There are a ton of ways to get around France. Below is a list of some of the best ways to travel around the country.

By Train – Train travel is one of the most popular ways to get around France. The high-speed TGV trains connect cities like Paris and Marseille. Then, slower regional trains (TER trains) are perfect for exploring more remote areas. You can book your train tickets online by clicking here.

By Car – If you want to freedom to explore the country at your own pace, then renting a car is the best option. It’s easy to rent a car in any major city.

If you’re looking to rent a car in France, I recommend and use Discover Cars. They search international and local companies to find you the best deals.

By Plane – Traveling by plane is another option, but it’s not as efficient as train travel or renting a car. For the best flight deals, click here.

By Bus – If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, consider taking a bus. Many cities offer direct routes to popular destinations. But keep in mind that long-distance travel on a bus in France can be time consuming. You can book your bus tickets online by clicking here.

By Bike – France is known for its excellent cycling paths. After all, this is the country that created the Tour de France! Most wine regions have a Route des Vins where you can explore the vineyards on a bike. It’s no doubt a unique way to visit France.

How Many Days in France is Enough?

The amount of time you should spend in France depends on the experiences you want to have. If you want to stick to one city such as Paris, Lyon, or Strasbourg, three days is enough. You won’t see everything, but you’ll be able to see the highlights. If you want to explore a region or several cities, you’ll need anywhere from seven to ten days.

Is France a Good Country to Travel?

Yes! France is a popular destination for travelers from around the world, and it’s easy to see why. From enchanting castles to breathtaking scenery, there’s something for everyone. Plus, it’s easy to get around. Most cities have public transportation and cross-country trains are efficient. You can even rent a car if you prefer!

Can You Drink Tap Water in France?

Yes, you can drink tap water in France. Tap water is generally safe to drink throughout the country. In fact, it’s common for restaurants to serve tap water instead of bottled water. So don’t hesitate to ask for a carafe d’eau when dining out!

What Is So Amazing About France?

France is an amazing destination for travelers because it has a wide range of activities. For history buffs, museums and memorials are spread across the country. Then, the towering peaks in the Alps beckon thrill seekers. Of course, the beaches offer something for vacation goers that want to relax. But no matter what you’re looking for France has it all.

What Are the 3 Things France is Famous For?

France is most famous for its gourmet cuisine, fine wines, and rich history. From Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy cafes, France is a paradise for foodies. Then, with its perfect climate and rich soil, France is one of the world’s foremost producers of wine in the world. Finally, its centuries-old castles, cathedrals, and monuments are nothing short of spectacular.

***

France is a destination full of adventure, history, and culture that is 100% worth visiting. I’ve been traveling around the country for years and I never get bored with all there is to do. So, whether you’re looking to indulge in a gourmet meal or climb a glacier, there’s something for everyone. Not only that but it’s also affordable. And the only thing left to do is pack your bags and prepare for an amazing journey! You’ll no doubt be left with unforgettable memories.


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Jen Ciesielski
Jen Ciesielski

Jen Ciesielski is the creator of Dabbling in Jet Lag. She has lived abroad for over ten years and has traveled to more than 50 countries. She also speaks three languages, English, French, and Spanish. She's an expert on moving abroad, learning new languages, and planning adventures. Originally from the United States, she now lives in France. She shares her experiences as an expat living in France and helps thousands of people plan their trips every month.

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