Insider's Guide to Paris and Beyond
Paris is a dream destination for good reason: timeless cuisine, world-class art, and grand boulevards that never go out of style. But for those who venture beyond the capital, France reveals even more of its quiet beauty and cultural richness—vineyards, medieval villages, lavender fields, and riverside cities with their own rhythm and charm.
At French Voyage, we believe in slow, thoughtful travel. Whether it’s your first time in Paris or your fifth, we help you experience the France that’s meant for you—season by season, region by region.
Paris May Be the Crown Jewel—But France Has Many Facets
Yes, Paris is iconic. But just outside the city, France unfolds in unexpected ways. Within two hours of the capital, you can sip champagne straight from the source in Épernay or wander Roman ruins and forests in the quiet countryside of Cernay-la-Ville. In Lyon, culinary tradition runs deep—this gastronomic capital has more restaurants per capita than New York. And farther south, Provence invites you to slow down amid lavender fields, stone villages, and sunlit terraces.
Each region offers something distinct—and discovering them is part of what makes traveling in France so unforgettable.
When to Go, How to Plan & What to Expect
The Essentials
Plan ahead. France is one of the most visited countries in the world. During peak seasons (especially May–September and the December holidays), hotel rooms, restaurant reservations, and winery visits book up quickly. Early planning ensures access to the experiences that elevate a trip from lovely to extraordinary.
Pack smart. France uses 230V Type E plugs, so a universal adapter is essential. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, but style matters—opt for chic yet practical footwear you can wear from morning markets to evening cocktails.
Be covered. Travel insurance is always wise. Delays, strikes, lost luggage, and last-minute changes happen—being prepared means you can keep your trip stress-free and flexible.
French Etiquette + Culture Tips
A little French goes a long way. Begin interactions with “Bonjour” and use “merci” and “s’il vous plaît” generously.
In cities, light kisses on both cheeks are the standard greeting among friends and colleagues.
Meals are meant to be savored. Don’t expect rushed service—this is part of the pleasure of dining in France.
Many small towns and shops close midday or on Sundays. Build in time to slow down and adapt to the local pace.
Currency & Payments
France uses the euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but cash is useful for markets, tips, and rural areas. Restaurant bills include a service charge (“service compris”), though leaving a few extra coins or euros for excellent service is appreciated.
Getting Around
France is wonderfully connected by train—including the Eurostar from London and efficient TGV lines across the country. Within cities, metros and trams are easy to navigate. In smaller villages and rural areas, private transfers offer the most flexibility and comfort—especially for winery visits or countryside retreats.
Airports by Region
Paris & Cernay-la-Ville: Fly into Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY). Both connect easily to the city and countryside.
Champagne: CDG is your best bet, followed by a high-speed TGV train. Châlons Vatry (XCR) offers limited regional flights.
Lyon: Lyon-Saint Exupéry (LYS) is well connected to European hubs.
Provence: Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) and Nice Côte d’Azur (NCE) serve the region with seasonal long-haul flights.
When to Visit
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer the perfect blend of mild weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant cultural life.
Summer (July–August) is ideal for beach towns, vineyards, and countryside picnics—but expect crowds and closures in Paris, as many locals head on holiday.
Winter (December–February) is a magical time to explore festive markets, cozy bistros, and snow-dusted villages—especially in Paris, Lyon, and Alsace.
Ideal Trip Length
To truly experience both Paris and one additional region, we recommend a minimum of 7–10 days. This allows you to balance time in the city with a slower-paced escape to wine country, the Riviera, or the countryside.
What to Wear, Region by Region
Paris & Lyon: Refined, neutral layers—think tailored coats, elegant knits, and smart accessories. A crossbody bag and chic sneakers or boots will take you far.
Provence & Cernay-la-Ville: Understated, polished pieces in breathable fabrics. Think flowy dresses, linen shirts, and sunhats. Dress modestly when visiting churches or historic sites.
Champagne: The region has a stylish, celebratory air. Think smart-casual ensembles suitable for vineyard tours or elegant tastings—blazers, silk blouses, and polished footwear.
Signature Dishes to Try
Paris
Steak frites: The ultimate bistro classic
Croque Madame: Delicious ham and cheese sandwich, with a fried egg on top
Duck confit: Crispy, slow-cooked perfection
Opéra cake: Rich, layered, and deeply Parisian
Cernay-la-Ville
Coq au vin: Rustic, wine-braised comfort
Tarte Tatin: Caramelized apple tart with a cult following
Terrine de gibier: Wild game pâté rooted in local tradition
Champagne
Jambon de Reims: Aromatic, herb-cured ham
Oysters + Champagne: A local luxury
Biscuits roses: Light pink treats, perfect for dipping
Lyon
Quenelles de brochet: Pike dumplings in creamy sauce
Saucisson brioché: Sausage encased in golden brioche
Tarte à la praline: A sweet pink praline tart unique to the region
Provence
Bouillabaisse: A seafood stew born in Marseille
Ratatouille: Provence on a plate—simple, seasonal vegetables
Lavender honey + chèvre: A local pairing not to miss
Where to Stay in Paris
Image courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Georges V
Four Seasons Hotel George V
Timeless elegance and impeccable service. This hotel is the epitome of Parisian luxury, with opulent interiors, Michelin-starred dining, and Eiffel Tower views from private terraces.
Kimpton St Honoré Paris
A design-lover’s dream. This boutique gem blends Art Deco flair with modern sophistication. Its rooftop bar offers sweeping city views, and its location near Opéra Garnier is perfect for cultural travelers.
La Fantaisie
Vibrant, playful, and refreshingly different. Located in South Pigalle, this boutique hotel features whimsical interiors, a serene courtyard garden, and easy access to cafés and shops with local charm.
Brach Paris
Eclectic and unexpected, Brach mixes bold design with a holistic vibe. With a rooftop terrace, fitness club, and immersive spa, it’s a luxurious hideaway in a residential corner near the Trocadéro.
Where to Stay in Cernay-la-Ville
Just beyond the edges of Paris, a quieter rhythm awaits. Cernay-la-Ville is a serene countryside escape where history and nature converge—stone abbeys hidden in woodlands, reflective lakes, and winding trails through the Chevreuse Valley. It’s a destination that invites you to exhale, slow down, and reconnect—with beauty, with heritage, with yourself.
Where to Stay: Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay
Step into a storybook. This former 12th-century abbey is now a romantic hideaway surrounded by forests and lakes. Each room is filled with historic charm, while modern indulgences—an elegant spa, fine dining, and outdoor adventures—elevate your stay to something truly special.
Where to Stay in Champagne
Image courtesy of Domaine Les Crayères
This storied region is France at its most celebratory. Home to the world’s most prestigious champagne houses and idyllic countryside, Champagne offers a rare blend of refinement and rural beauty. Taste vintages beneath chalk cellars, linger over long lunches in vineyard courtyards, and retreat to luxurious estates that rival the best in the world.
Where to Stay:
Domaine Les Crayères – A stately château set in a private park in Reims, this Relais & Châteaux property epitomizes grace. Elegant rooms, white-glove service, and a two-Michelin-starred restaurant make it a favorite for romantic escapes and refined travelers.
Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa – Perched above the vines with sweeping panoramic views, this luminous retreat blends modern luxury with wine-country charm. The world-class spa, Michelin-starred dining, and floor-to-ceiling vineyard vistas offer a complete sensory experience.
Where to Stay in Lyon
Image courtesy of InterContinental Lyon - Hotel Dieu
France’s culinary capital is more than just a feast for the palate—it’s a city where Renaissance architecture, riverside charm, and gastronomic excellence come together in perfect harmony. Lyon invites you to savor—not just the food, but the art, history, and craft that shape this dynamic destination.
Where to Stay:
InterContinental Lyon – Hôtel Dieu – Housed in a landmark 18th-century hospital along the Rhône, this hotel is a triumph of grandeur and modern refinement. The soaring dome bar is an architectural wonder, while rooms blend clean elegance with historical flair.
La Villa Florentine – A hillside sanctuary with sweeping views, this former convent offers a romantic fusion of Renaissance design and contemporary comfort. Michelin dining, a spa, and infinity pool complete the picture.
Villa Maïa – Intimate, serene, and effortlessly stylish. This design-forward hotel on Fourvière Hill features minimalist luxury, panoramic views, and one of the most peaceful spa experiences in the city.
Where to Stay in Provence
Image courtesy of Hotel Les Bords de Mer
Where sunlight dances through olive groves and lavender scents the air, Provence is France at its most sensorial. From the turquoise waters of Marseille to the hilltop villages of the Luberon, this region invites you to live slowly, eat well, and bask in beauty.
Where to Stay:
Hôtel Les Bords de Mer – Sleek and minimal with unmatched views of the Mediterranean, this boutique hotel is perched directly on the beach in Marseille. A rooftop pool, spa, and sea-to-table restaurant complete the experience.
Villa Gallici – A romantic escape in Aix-en-Provence, nestled in manicured gardens. Its baroque interiors, candlelit terraces, and lush poolside setting are perfect for those seeking elegance and intimacy.
La Mirande – Located in the heart of Avignon, this restored 14th-century cardinal’s mansion is a masterclass in timeless charm. Period furnishings, a serene courtyard garden, and impeccable service evoke a bygone era of refinement.
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Whether you’re dreaming of Paris in springtime or a Provençal summer escape, French Voyage designs custom itineraries for thoughtful travelers who crave meaningful experiences, beautiful design, and just the right amount of indulgence.
Let’s create something unforgettable. Schedule your complimentary consultation today or feel free to send us an email below.
