MAKE YOUR NEXT TRIP A FRENCH ADVENTURE
The home of Paris, Burgundy wines, world-class ski resorts, and the chic beaches of Côte d’Azur, France needs no introduction. Go here for the home of gastronomy, incredible history and culture, and endless bucolic countryside. But deciding where to go is always a tough job. We can help plan it all whether you’re dreaming of trying oysters beachside in Normandy or sipping bubbles in Champagne.
WHERE WE TRAVEL PLAN IN FRANCE
The best travel planners have expertise in everything from the local food to history and culture. We focus on France because it has a deep sense of place, vibrant food culture, strong creative scenes, and unique local makers — the things we believe that makes a destination magical. In France, we arrange travel in:
Ile-De France | Paris & Versailles
The Rhône | Dijon, Beaune, Lyon, Beaujolais, & Cotes Roties
Provence | Marseille, Aix, Arles, & Côte D’Azur
Languedoc | Carcassonne, Toulouse, & Montpellier
Basque Country | Biarritz, Bayonne, Espelette, & St-Jean-De-Luz
Northern France | Normandy, Brittany, & Rouens
Loire | Nantes, Orleans, Loire, Nancy, & Bordeaux
Alps | Évian-les-Bains, Chamonix, Chambery, & Annecy
WHY PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH SALT & WIND TRAVEL
FRANCE TRAVEL PLANNING EXPERTS
We have been providing guests our 5-star travel planning services in France for nearly a decade.
Salt & Wind Travel co-owner, Aida, used to live in France so we tap into her extensive network of travel professionals, creatives, and tour guides for our clients.
Throughout France we craft curated travel experiences such as visiting lavender fields in Provence, horseback riding in Languedoc, wine tastings in Bordeaux, market tours in Lyon, cooking classes in Paris, farm visits in the Rhone, and surf lessons in Basque Country.
What Our Past France Travel Planning Clients Have to Say
“We had been wanting to travel to Europe for years but always put it off, worried that the planning process would be too daunting.
Thanks to Aida and her team, we were able to have an amazing trip we will never forget without having to worry about doing all the research and work that often comes with traveling. The team helped answer all of our questions and concerns with care and kindness. We are so grateful to have found Salt & Wind!”
FREE FRANCE TRAVEL TIPS
Need some travel advice? Enter your email below for access to our France travel bucket list that includes unique itineraries, a bucket list, and our clients’ favorite travel resources.
MORE France Travel Tips
ISO of some additional inspiration before you plan your trip to France?
Check out a selection of a few of our most popular articles on France including recipes and travel tips.
France Travel FAQs
Below, you’ll find answers to general travel questions about visiting France with Salt & Wind Travel. For questions on a specific region of France, please email us at travel@saltandwind.com.
GENERAL FRANCE TRAVEL INFORMATION
How do I start planning a trip to France?
The easiest way is to contact us, and we’ll craft a custom travel plan for you. If you prefer to research before reaching out, check out our France travel guides covering wine regions, road trips, and culinary experiences.
What are the best apps for traveling to France?
Here are a few must-have apps when visiting France:
Citymapper: Great for navigating public transportation in Paris and other major cities.
Google Maps: Download offline maps for seamless navigation.
Google Translate: Download French for offline use.
SNCF: For booking high-speed trains across France.
RATP: Essential for navigating the Paris Metro.
XE Currency Converter: Helps track the exchange rate between euros and your home currency.
When is the best time to travel to France?
France has distinct seasons, each offering something unique:
Paris: Best visited in spring (April-June) and fall (September-November) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer can be hot and packed with tourists.
Provence: Lavender fields bloom in late June to early July, but fall (September-October) is ideal for wine lovers.
Bordeaux & Loire Valley: Best from May to October, especially during harvest season.
The Alps: Ski season runs from December to March, while summer is excellent for hiking.
Côte d'Azur: Peak summer (June-August) is vibrant but crowded; visit in May or September for warm weather with fewer tourists.
Do I need a passport to travel to France?
Yes, travelers need a valid passport, and a visa may be required depending on your nationality. U.S. and Canadian citizens can stay visa-free for up to 90 days.
Do I need travel insurance to travel to France?
While not required, we highly recommend it for medical coverage, trip cancellations, and unexpected emergencies. Some credit cards, like AmEx and Chase Sapphire, include travel insurance as a perk.
What is the time zone in France?
France follows Central European Time (CET, UTC+1) and observes daylight saving time from late March to late October.
What are the electrical outlets in France?
France uses Type E plugs with a voltage of 230V. Travelers from North America will need a power adapter and a voltage converter for specific devices.
FRANCE TRAVEL ETIQUETTE
Dos and Don’ts
Do:
Learn some basic French phrases; even a simple "Bonjour" goes a long way.
Greet shopkeepers when entering stores.
Dress stylishly, especially in Paris, as locals tend to dress well.
Carry small change for tips and restrooms.
Make restaurant reservations in advance.
Don't:
Speak loudly in public spaces.
Expect free tap water at all restaurants; some charge for still or sparkling water.
Over-tip: service charge is included in restaurant bills.
MONEY MATTERS
How much does a trip to France cost?
A mid-range trip for a solo traveler can cost €4,500 for a week, broken down as follows:
€700/week for flights (varies by departure location)
€300/day for lodging
€700/week for meals
€1000/week Additional for activities, transportation, fine dining, and shopping
What is the currency in France?
France uses the Euro (€). Check www.xe.com for current exchange rates.
Do I need cash in France?
While cards are widely accepted, small businesses, markets, and rural areas may prefer cash. We recommend carrying around €50 in cash for small expenses.
Can I use credit cards in France?
Yes, but Visa and Mastercard are more widely accepted than American Express. Chip-and-PIN cards are the standard.
How much should I tip in France?
Restaurants: Service is included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for excellent service is appreciated.
Cafés and bars: Rounding up your bill is customary.
Hotels: Tip porters €1-2 per bag and housekeeping €2 per day.
Taxis and ride-shares: Round up or tip 5-10%.
HEALTH & SAFETY
Is pollution an issue in France?
Air quality is generally good, though Paris can experience pollution spikes. If you have respiratory issues, check air quality forecasts before your trip.
Does France experience natural disasters?
France is relatively safe but can experience occasional floods and heatwaves. Wildfires are a concern in the south during dry summers.
Is COVID-19 still a concern in France?
France has managed COVID-19 well, but travel restrictions and entry requirements may change. Check the latest guidelines before your trip.
GENERAL TRAVEL SAFETY
Is it safe to travel in France?
Yes, but as in any major tourist destination, be mindful of pickpockets in cities like Paris, particularly at landmarks, train stations, and metro stations.
Can I travel alone in France?
Absolutely! France is safe for solo travelers, especially women. Stay alert at night and be cautious when using rideshares or public transport alone.
Can I drive in France?
Yes, but you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license isn’t in French. French highways are excellent, but parking in cities can be challenging.
How do I reach the police or authorities in an emergency in France?
Dial 112 for emergencies.
HAVE ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS?
Contact us at travel@saltandwind.com