Country Overview: France
France Currency
The official currency in France is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash is recommended, especially for small businesses, cafes, and rural areas. Some places may require a card with a chip and PIN.
*Regions in France
Nouvelle-Aquitaine With 155 Miles (250 kilometres) of beaches, historic towns, chateaus and vineyards, Nouvelle-Aquitaine has something for everyone. If you don't want to go surfing at Biarritz, take a boat tour in the Poitevin marshlands, or perhaps go on a wine-tasting detour into the vineyards surrounding Bordeaux.
The Grand Est: Steeped in history, in the First World War, the Grand Est was the scene of major battles, such as the Battle of Verdun. Once there you can visit Strasbourg, the European capital, and also the vineyards of Champagne and Alsace, or the Vosges mountains.
Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes: Land of volcanos and snow-covered peaks: from the springs of Evian to the slopes of Mont-Blanc, choose from amongst the ski stations and the thermal spas. From Lyon to the shores of Lake Annecy, there's everything to discover in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.
Hauts-de-France: Dotted with cathedrals, bell towers and citadels, and its plains bear witness to its mining history. Lille's carnivals and street market are the chance to try the best chips in France, before sauntering to the Côte d’Opale.
Corsica: With its villages perched up high and its hiking trails, the beaches and heavenly seabeds, Corsica has more than one attraction for visitors. From Calvi to the Gulf of Bonifacio, through the Citadel of Corte, this beautiful island holds more than one surprise in store for you.
Normandy: People go to Normandy for its gentle climate, wooded countryside, cows and steeples. You can also admire the cliffs of Fécamp, be speechless at the sight of Mont-Saint-Michel, walk the beaches of D-Day and follow the path of William the Conqueror.
Burgundy Franche-Comté: The Burgundy Franche-Comté region is renowned for its vineyards. It's also home of delicious escargots. Use the region's many canals to stop off and enjoy all the different culinary delights from Dijon to Châlons-sur-Saône before reaching the Jura, with its magnificent view of the Alps.
Île-de-France: Île de France is the cultural and political heart of France. There are countless historic monuments, cultural events and chances for an evening out. From nights out in Paris to walks in the woods surrounding the town, there's so much to see in Île-de-France.
The Centre-Val-de-Loire: The Centre-Val-de-Loire region was the cradle of the French Renaissance; the majestic chateaus that line the river testify to that. The banks of the Loire are favourite destinations of fans of bicycle tourism, one of the best ways to explore the Centre Val de Loire region.
Pays de la Loire: With its long beaches, islands swept by the ocean spray and dunes as far as the eye can see, the Pays de la Loire region is the ideal destination for those in search of a breath of fresh air. Cultural life in Nantes is famously dynamic. From the cathedral in Le Mans to the saltwater marshes of Guérande, the Pays de la Loire is worth the visit.
Brittany: A region of tradition and character, the story of the sea meets the story of the Celts. There you can walk across the mist-covered moors before tasting seafood in a Morbihan fishing port. From Brest harbour to the lively streets of Rennes, Brittany is awaiting discovery.
Occitanie: Nestled against the Pyrenees and bordered by the Mediterranean, Occitanie has a wide variety of countryside and activities. Its inhabitants take the time to enjoy life and share the excellent regional specialties, such as the famous foie gras. From rose-coloured Toulouse to Catalonian Perpignan, Occitanie is ripe for exploration.
Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur: From the beaches of the French Riviera to the mountains of Mercantour, the "PACA" region is covered with fields of Provencal lavender, marinas and "calanques" - the rocky creeks found in the area.
Transportation Options
Trains (SNCF): High-speed TGV trains connect major cities, while regional trains serve smaller destinations.
Metro and Buses: Efficient public transport in cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille.
Driving: Useful for exploring rural regions like Provence or the Loire Valley, but avoid city centers where parking is limited.
Cycling: Popular in urban areas and scenic countryside routes like those in Burgundy.
Domestic Flights: Useful for long distances, such as Paris to Nice or Marseille.
Daily Travel Expenses
Budget traveler: €40–€80 per day
Mid-range traveler: €80–€200 per day
Luxury traveler: €200+ per day
Interesting Facts About France
France is the world’s most visited country, with over 89 million tourists annually.
Known for its gastronomy, from baguettes and croissants to fine wines and cheeses.
Home to the longest high-speed train network in Europe.
The Eiffel Tower was initially criticized but is now one of the most recognized landmarks in the world.
Travel Tips
Carry a valid passport for international travel and check visa requirements before your trip.
Purchase a Carte Avantage for discounts on train travel.
Learn some basic French phrases; while many people speak English, locals appreciate efforts to use their language.
Be aware of regional climates; pack warm clothes for the Alps and lighter wear for the Mediterranean.
Emergency Contacts
Emergency Services: 112
*Credit to Campus France
