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France Tour Packages

Capital: Paris

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Time Zone: UTC +01:00

Driving Side: Right

Calling Code: +33

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India's No.1 Travel Brand

Euro (EUR)

Currency Name

June - August

Best Season to Visit France

12°C to 19°C

Climate in France

French, Occitan

Languages Speaking

Essential Tips for Travelling to the France

ATMs are widely available throughout urban France.

Credit cards are widely accepted across the country.

Finding a bank in France is quite simple.

The legal drinking age in France is 18.

Residents of France are known for their hospitality.

France - Visitors Statistics

Annually

10,00,00,000

Male 51%

Female 49%

By Purpose

Couples

For Newlywed Vacations

Family

For Family Vacations

Top Visitors from India

Mumbai

Delhi

Bengaluru

Chennai

Kolkata

Hyderabad

Pune

Ahmedabad

Jaipur

Lucknow

Table of Content:

About France
Tidbits
Essential Tips To Know Before Travelling To France
Our Best Budget France Tour Packages
France At A Glance
Top Reasons To Visit France
Best Time To Visit France
Top Cities to Visit In France
Top Things To Do In France
Shopping In France
Dos and Don’ts For Indian Travellers
Foods To Try Out In France
Art And Culture In France

About France

The earliest evidence of human settlement in France occurred almost two million years ago. The Neanderthals are said to have arrived in France before 300,000 BC, and the Cro-Magnons arrived by 40,000 BC. In the 2nd century B.C., France was occupied by the Romans, who named the country Gaul. By 51 B.C., Julius Caesar established complete Roman control over Gaul. Several dynasties ruled France over the years, including the Merovingians, Carolingians, Capetians, and the House of Bourbon.

Napoleon Bonaparte, a French military general during the French Revolution, became the leader of France in 1799. He initiated the Napoleonic Wars, a series of wars between France and other European powers from around 1800 to 1815. However, the Battle of Waterloo in 1815 ended Napoleon’s rule and France’s domination in Europe. The country suffered significant losses during both the First and Second World Wars.

The current government of France is a semi-presidential system, which means it’s a combination of presidential and parliamentary systems. The president is the head of state and is elected by the people for a five-year term. The president appoints the prime minister, and they pass laws while working with the elected parliament. France is one of the biggest economies in the world. The country is a major name in global trade, exporting several items to other countries, including food products, beauty products, vehicles, and pharmaceutical products.

If you’d like a customised France tour package itinerary that matches your taste and budget, send us a message on Instagram, we’ll be happy to help.

Tidbits

The Eiffel Tower grows taller during the summer season.
The Louvre in Paris is the most visited museum in the world.
France is often called ‘the hexagon’ because of its six-sided shape.
France is home to more than 1,600 varieties of cheese.
The hot air balloon was invented in France.
France is the largest country in the European Union (EU) by area.
Marrying a deceased person is legal in France.
France has the most Nobel Prize winners in literature.
French cuisine made it to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2010.
The Michelin star rating system for restaurants was created in France.
In France, it’s considered unlucky to place a baguette upside down.
The world’s first commercial film screening took place in Paris in December 1895.
Louis XIX of France is known to have had the shortest reign in world history.
The world’s first public transportation system was introduced in Paris.
The French consume around 25,000 tons of snails every year.
The Statue of Liberty, located in New York, was initially built & assembled in Paris.
France has the second-largest European railway network.
French was the official language of England for about 300 years.
In 2016, France became the first country in the world to ban supermarkets from throwing away unsold food.

Essential Tips To Know Before Travelling To France

You need a Schengen Visa to visit France, which takes around 15 days to process.
While you don’t have to speak French, starting a sentence with bonjour, salut, or si vous plait goes a long way in seeking a French person’s attention. And don’t forget to say merci and au revoir when you end the conversation.
Before speaking English, check with the person if they speak English – parlez-vous anglaise?
Pickpocketing is quite common in France. Therefore, be vigilant at all times and take very good care of your belongings.
France has a highly developed railroad network that also connects it to other countries. Depending on your destination and how quickly you want to travel, you can take the TGV (high-speed train) or TER (regional express train).
It’s important to book attractions in advance, especially the Louvre and Eiffel Tower, as they can be very crowded.
While trains may be a quick way to get around France, a more economical way to travel around France is by bus.
Drinking tap water is safe in 99% of the cities in France.
Always carry your passport or national identity card. Random ID checks can often happen, and it’s vital for tourists to cooperate with them.

Our Best Budget France Tour Packages

France Tour Packages	Duration	Highlights
Europe Trip Package	13 Nights 14 Days	Champs-Elysees, Disneyland, Louvre Museum, Jungfraujoch, Mount Titlis, Duomo di Milano, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Piazza della Repubblica
Cannes And Provence Tour Package	2 Nights 3 Days	Monte Carlo, Grasse, Tourrettes-sur-Loup
Nice Tour Package	2 Nights 3 Days	Promenade des Anglais, Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice, Marc Chagall National Museum
Paris Tour Package	2 Nights 3 Days	Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Tuileries Garden

France At A Glance

Category	Details
Country	The French Republic
Currency	The Euro
Capital City	Paris
High season	June to August
Visa	Schengen Visa
National Flower	Iris
Standard Voltage	230 volts (V) at a frequency of 50 hertz (Hz)
National Animal	European Rabbit
Languages	Official: French
Famous Tourist Attractions	Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Palace of Versailles, Chartres Cathedral, Verdon Gorge, Chateau de Chambord
Things To Do	Surfing, kayaking, canoeing, skydiving, snowboarding
Famous Food	Boeuf bourguignon, coq au vin, steak tartare, bouillabaisse, cassoulet, creme brulee
Places To Visit	Paris, Nice, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux
Souvenirs To Buy	Eiffel Tower souvenirs, perfume, lavender products, French antiques, chocolate, wine

Top Reasons To Visit France

Although there can never be enough reasons to visit France, let us give you some of the best excuses to book our France tour packages right away:

Mouthwatering Food

If you’re a foodie, French cuisine alone should be a reason to visit the country. The French have elevated eating as an art form, so it is not surprising that their gastronomic meals are now listed as an intangible UNESCO cultural heritage.

Be it the crusty and warm baguettes, the fresh seafood, or the wholesome boeuf bourguignon, every day in France promises to be a culinary adventure. With our France tour packages, you can wake up to the aroma of freshly baked French bread, learn about the complex world of French sauces, enjoy French charcuterie, or visit Paris’ multiple patisseries.

Exquisite Wines

Wine connoisseurs will have a gala time in France, as the country is well-known for its world-renowned wines. Almost every region in France has its own unique grape types and wine styles. While Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne are the popular wine regions in the country, various bestselling wines and local favourites can also be found in specific regions and villages.

With our France tour packages, you can visit the many wine estates and vineyards that the country is home to. Indulge in wine tasting sessions and gain deeper knowledge about making wine through the wine tours we can organise for you.

History And Culture

French history is deep and rich from the reign of Louis XIV to the French Revolution, the declaration of France as a Republic, the rise of Napoleon, and the declaration of human rights in 1948. Battlegrounds, cathedrals, and churches in France make for some of the most popular sightseeing spots, including the Old Port of Marseille, Sacre-Coeur Basilica, the Palace of Versailles, and Notre Dame.

Cultural activities form such a vital part of the country that France has a Ministry of Culture in charge of the historical monuments and museums of France. The goal of the Ministry of Culture is to promote and protect the arts in the country and abroad, maintain the regional cultural centres of France, and keep up the identity of French culture. Several cultural events take place in France throughout the year. There is the Fete de la Musique, an event meant to promote music. It always takes place on the 21st of June, and professional and amateur musicians perform on the streets.

France’s rich cultural heritage is also reflected in its forts, castles, religious buildings, and medieval towns. France has almost 50 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Eiffel Tower, Chartres Cathedral, Palace and Park of Versailles, and Amiens Cathedral.

Diverse Landscapes

The sights in France are not just about museums, galleries, and sidewalk cafes. France has diverse and unique landscapes, from mountaintops and gorges to rivers, vineyards, and quaint villages. These landscapes allow travellers to engage in various adventurous activities, including rock climbing, cycling, and cave diving.

On one hand, there are the snow-covered slopes of Mont Blanc, and on the other, there are the sunny beaches of Nice. The French Riviera is famous for its luxurious and flamboyant hotels and the celebrities who spend their holidays soaking in the Mediterranean sun. Whether you’re a beach person or a mountain lover, the landscapes of France will satisfy one and all.

Vibrant Cities And Charming Countryside

The vibrant cities of France contain a mix of museums, enticing scenery, unique architecture, and historical sites. Of course, there is Paris with its galleries, exhibitions, festivals, and fairs. There is the city of Nice, which is home to stunning beaches, Baroque architecture, intriguing museums, and interesting markets. Lyon is known for its gastronomy, museums, theatres, ancient heritage, and the popular Festival of Lights.

When you wish to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, the French countryside offers the best escape. You will see high mountains, pink salt plains, scenic rivers, gorges, sandy beaches, and rolling green hills. Make sure to visit the highland region of Massif Central, the French Lake District of Limousin, and the lavender fields in Provence.

Best Time To Visit France

To make the most of your holiday, it’s important to learn when to book France tour packages. Summer is peak tourist season in France, but shoulder months from April to May and September to October are also a good time to visit the country. November to March are considered off-season, as the weather could be unpredictable with intermittent rains and snow.

Different regions of France enjoy different climates. The weather in the northern region is wetter, near the English Channel. The southern region, though, has a Mediterranean climate. Here’s what you need to learn about the different seasons to decide when to book our France tour packages.

France in Spring (March to May)

During spring, the temperature in France ranges from 10 degrees Celsius to 22 degrees Celsius. Tourists can also expect a bit of rainfall at this time. As France embraces spring, you will see a wide array of vibrant colours in the countryside. With the flowers blooming and the birds chirping, it is a great time to be amidst nature during this season in France. Since it’s also a shoulder season, you can visit most sightseeing spots without encountering too many tourists. It’s also the ideal time to taste wine in the country.

For nature enthusiasts, France offers the perfect weather for hiking or trekking in spring. If you visit the country in March, make sure to pack some woollen clothes. The festivals and events you can witness in France now are the Dunkirk Carnival and the Cannes Film Festival.

France in Summer (June to August)

During the summer months, the temperature in France oscillates between 14 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius. Rainfall can be expected throughout the country, and the southern areas experience more precipitation than the rest of France. This is the best time to explore the museums and major historical locations, witness natural landscapes, experience the festivals, and indulge in numerous activities.

Since this is peak tourist season, flight tickets and accommodations are usually priced high. Therefore, remember to book our France tour packages well in advance. Carry an umbrella to deal with the rain while you go out sightseeing. The festivals that take place in France during this time include Jazz in Marciac, Fete de la Musique, and Bastille Day.

France in Autumn (September to October)

The temperature during the autumn season in France ranges from 8 to 15 degrees Celsius. This season sees a bit more rainfall than spring and summer. Be prepared to see a vibrant mix of yellow, brown, and red around you. This is the best time to go hiking in the French Alps.

For those on a budget, autumn is the perfect season to travel as the ticket prices for flights drop at this time, and accommodation is cheaper as well. Do carry an umbrella to protect yourself from the rain. If you plan on going on treks, make sure to pack sturdy shoes. The festivals that occur in the country during this season are Nuit Blanche, Salon du Chocolat, and Paris Fashion Week.

France in Winter (November to February)

During the winter season, the temperature in France remains between 3 degrees Celsius and 8 degrees Celsius. Winter in France is not as harsh as the other European countries. It’s also among the wettest seasons in the country. For tourists who wish to visit the museums in France, this is the ideal time to do so. Be prepared to experience snowfall as well.

Since it gets pretty cold during the winters in France, remember to carry some woollen clothes in your luggage. Winter festivals in France include the Festival of Lights, Christmas, and New Year.

Top Cities to Visit In France

Paris

Paris is the capital of France and the hub of fashion, art, history, culture, and French cuisine. Known for being ‘the city of love’, Paris is filled with iconic museums and monuments and situated along the River Seine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ernest Hemingway was not lying when he called Paris “A Moveable Feast”. Visit the Musee d’Orsay to lay your eyes on mesmerising French art dating all the way back to 1848, and go to the famous fashion avenue known as Champs-Elysees to shop from luxury brands.

Some of the best tourist attractions in Paris are the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Paris, Jardin du Luxembourg, and Basilique du Sacre Coeur de Montmartre.

Nice

Nice is the largest city on the French Riviera and is popular among beach lovers, culture connoisseurs, and history enthusiasts. Contemporary sculptures can be seen in the gardens of the Place Massena. Make sure to see the Baroque churches in Old Town, along with its narrow streets and vibrant markets. You can also taste the local speciality, socca, a thin and crispy pancake made using chickpea flour.

The sightseeing spots in Nice you should be visiting include Colline du Chateau, Cathedrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice, Marc Chagall National Museum, Villa Massena Musee, and Musee Matisse.

Lyon

While Lyon is the third largest city in France, it definitely ranks higher when it comes to picking some of the best cities to visit in the country. In fact, it’s popularly known as the gastronomic capital of France, with tourists stating that the city provides them with an authentic taste of the country’s culture. The Old Town in Lyon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, containing fantastic displays of medieval and Renaissance architecture.

Lyon has many places that travellers will enjoy, such as the Basilica of Notre Dame of Fourviere, Musee des Confluences, Musee Cinema et Miniature, Ancient Theatre of Fourviere, and Cathedrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste.

Marseille

Marseille was founded around 600 BC as a port, and today, it’s a major port in the Mediterranean Sea. It’s the second-largest city in France and has some of the oldest and most beautiful architecture in the country. With numerous beaches, you can participate in thrilling activities here, such as kayaking, biking, and hiking.

For all the foodies out there, there are certain dishes you absolutely must try out in Marseille, such as bouillabaisse and panisses. A couple of Marseille’s most popular tourist attractions are Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde, Cathedrale La Major, Palais Longchamp, Chateau d’If, and the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is crowned as the ‘wine capital of the world’. Having earned the designation of a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007, it has almost 300,000 acres of vineyards. The Garonne River amplifies the charm and beauty of Bordeaux, enabling tourists to relish boat cruises and visit its riverside cafes.

When in Bordeaux, do remember to visit the Place de la Bourse, Cathedrale Saint-Andre de Bordeaux, La Ciudad del Vino, Grosse Cloche, and Bassins des Lumieres.

Top Things To Do In France

France offers a plethora of activities for tourists to enjoy. From museums and galleries to amusement parks and thrilling outdoor adventures, here are the things you can do in France during your vacation with our France tour packages:

Things To Do As A Family

Eiffel Tower

The construction of the Eiffel Tower was completed in two years, two months and five days, which was indeed a humongous architectural and technical achievement. Unsurprisingly, the structure was named after Gustave Eiffel, the French civil engineer whose company was responsible for designing and building the Eiffel Tower from 1887 to 1889. The monument has been restored and renovated regularly, and adapted for the public since the 1980s.

The French government organised the International Exposition of 1889 to commemorate the centenary of the French Revolution. A competition was conducted to select a suitable building design for the occasion. The concept for the Eiffel Tower was picked among the 100 plans that were originally submitted.

The proposal was to build a tower 300 metres tall. Nothing like the Eiffel Tower had ever been built before, and it was supposed to be taller than the Great Pyramid of Giza or the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. However, once it was opened to the public in May 1889, any scepticism that one may have had regarding the possibility of its existence vanished.

Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum is not only the most visited art museum in the world but also the world’s largest museum by size. It was built on the site of a 12th century fortress in 1546 under King Francis I. It was meant to be a royal residence. However, the court was shifted to Versailles in 1682, and the structure was no longer used as a palace.

In the 18th century, it was decided that the spot would be converted into a public museum. The Louvre Museum was opened to the public in August 1793. The collection within the museum contains artwork from the ancient civilisations to the mid-19th century.

Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles was the centre of the French government from 1682 to 1789 and served as the former French royal residence. However, after the French Revolution in 1789, King Louis XVI was forced to leave Versailles for Paris, causing the palace to cease to be the royal residence.

In the 19th century, the Palace of Versailles became the Museum of the History of France. This was ordered by King Louis-Philippe I, who attained the throne in 1830. New collections of sculptures and paintings began to be housed in the palace, related to pertinent figures and vital events that had shaped the country’s history. These collections continued to expand till the early 20th century, after which the historical role of the palace was restored. Therefore, the central portion of the structure regained the appearance it had during the Ancien Regime.

Chartres Cathedral

Chartres Cathedral is a Gothic cathedral in the town of Chartres in France. The structure’s architectural innovations and beautiful stained glass make it stand out. Along with Reims Cathedral and Amiens Cathedral, the cathedral is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It was frequented by pilgrims in the Middle Ages and remains a pilgrimage site for Roman Catholics even today.

The spiritual significance of the cathedral is amplified by the fact that all the light that enters the space is through the stained-glass windows, creating a soothing and unique ambience. The nave of Chartres Cathedral is the widest among France’s cathedrals. In the centre of the structure is a maze known as the Labyrinth of Chartres, which is 290 metres long.

Bordeaux Wine Regions

The wine regions of Bordeaux are divided into two sections, namely the Right Bank and the Left Bank. While the Right Bank includes the Libournais, Bourg, and Blaye, the Left Bank has the Medoc and Graves. All of these appellations have their charm, history, and specificities. Bordeaux has 57 appellations, 13,000 wine growers, and over 9,000 wine-producing chateaux. Being the largest fine-wine producing region in the world, about 6 million hectoliters (hl) of wine is produced in the region annually.

Reims Cathedral

The Reims Cathedral is situated in the city of Reims in France. Two other structures previously existed on the spot where the Reims Cathedral currently stands. The first one was built on the site of a former thermal bath by St. Nicaise in 401. In 820, the second structure, a Carolingian cathedral, was built. However, a fire in 1210 completely destroyed it.

The cathedral we see today was ordered to be built by Archbishop Aubry de Humbert. The construction of the Reims Cathedral took 60 years to be completed. It is known to be one of France’s finest examples of Gothic architecture. The cathedral was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.

Cannes Film Festival

The Cannes Film Festival is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. In fact, it comes second to only the Olympic Games as far as being the world’s most publicised event is concerned. The idea for the festival was concocted by Philippe Erlanger, a French diplomat, writer, historian, and journalist. It was held for the first time in September 1946.

The Palme d’Or, the highest award given during the festival, is bestowed upon the director of the best feature film in the official competition. The award was designed in 1955. The Cannes Film Festival is one of the three major European film festivals, the other two being the Berlin International Film Festival and the Venice Film Festival.

Champs-Elysees

The Champs-Elysees, often called the most beautiful avenue in the world, is 1.17 miles long. It is divided into two parts, namely, the lower part and the upper part. The lower part is closest to the Place de la Concorde, surrounded by restaurants, theatres, museums, and gardens. The upper part leads up to the Arc de Triomphe and is usually filled with luxury stores, restaurants, hotels, offices, cafes, and theatres. Its overall character, however, has changed over the years while still retaining its intrigue and appeal to tourists.

Arc de Triomphe is located in the centre of the Place Charles de Gaulle, right at the beginning of the Champs-Elysees. The structure consists of 284 stairs, and as you reach the topmost area, you get a spellbinding panoramic view of the entire city. It’s also a great spot to view the Eiffel Tower, especially when the iconic landmark lights up at night.

Disneyland Paris

Located in the Marne-la-Vallee of France, Disneyland Paris is often referred to as the happiest place on earth. Whether you’re travelling with kids or wish to have your childhood dreams come to life, this theme park in France is one you just can’t miss out on. Opened to the public in April 1992, the name of the park was officially changed in October 1994 from Euro Disney to Disneyland Paris.

It covers an area of more than 1,942 hectares and has two theme parks, Walt Disney Studios Park and Disneyland Park. While Walt Disney Studios Park has cinema themed rides, Disneyland Park gives life to the various beloved Disney characters and fairy tales.

Jardin du Luxembourg

In 2022, Jardin du Luxembourg, or Luxembourg Garden, was voted Europe’s most beautiful garden by internet users. Ranked as the world’s third-most beautiful garden, it had 6.2 million visitors in 2022. Sprawled over 25 hectares of land, the gardens are divided into French and English gardens. A huge pond and a geometric forest are present between the two gardens.

The Luxembourg Garden is home to 5,000 square metres of flower beds, 3,000 trees of numerous species, and an orchard with more than 500 ancient varieties of apple and pear trees. There are also 106 statues spread throughout the park. Napoleon dedicated the Luxembourg Gardens to the children of Paris. The gardens form a background to the Luxembourg Palace, built in the 1620s. The garden has its apiary school and also offers horticulture courses.

Things To Do For Adventure Lovers

Surfing
Canyoning
Canoeing
White Water Rafting
Kayaking
Skydiving
Snowboarding
Horse riding

Shopping In France

When you’re not busy consuming delicious French food or experiencing the famous sightseeing spots in the country, make sure to go souvenir shopping with our France tour packages. The following are some of the best souvenirs to buy from France and the places you can shop from:

What To Buy

Eiffel Tower Souvenirs

Given that the Eiffel Tower is one of Paris’s most iconic landmarks, you must buy a souvenir related to the structure. Some kinds of Eiffel Tower souvenirs you can buy include a keychain, a painting, a snow globe, and a little Eiffel Tower showpiece.

Perfume

If high-quality perfumes from designer brands appeal to you, then France is the place to shop. In fact, tourists can make their own perfume in the French Riviera, which can serve as a souvenir for yourself or a gift for your loved ones.

Grasse, located in the Provence region of France, is known as the ‘perfume capital of the world’. The town’s fertile soil and ideal climate contribute to the production of flowers, especially jasmine, roses, and lavender. Grasse has been known for its perfume production since the 18th century.

Dijon Mustard

Dijon mustard is an important part of French cuisine. Unlike American style mustard, which is bright yellow and creamy, Dijon mustard is pale yellow and originated in the city of Dijon in France. It is made using white wine and mustard seeds.

Lavender Products

Lavender is grown in plenty in the region of Provence in France, particularly in the town of Valensole. Known for producing high-quality lavender, this is where you can buy various kinds of lavender based products, such as essential oils, soaps, candles, lotions, perfumes, aromatic sachets, and much more.

French Antiques

France’s artistic heritage and rich history are well represented through its antiques. Some of the French antiques you can buy during your trip with our France tour packages are clocks, porcelain, ornate silverware, and vintage postcards.

Chocolate

What’s a better gift to take back home than a box of chocolates, right? There are chocolate bonbons that contain various sorts of fillings, such as caramel, praline, ganache, and fruits. You can find chocolate bars with interiors embedded with delicious ingredients like fruits or nuts. There are also mendiants, or chocolate discs containing dried fruits or nuts.

Wine

France’s vineyards produce a wide variety of rich, quality wines. Such is the popularity of French wines that many of their grape varieties are now planted in different parts of the world. Their wine-making practices have been adopted in numerous countries.

Be it the full-bodied red wines of Bordeaux or the light and fruity wines of the Loire Valley, every region of France has its unique wines with different aromas and flavours. In addition to buying wine, you can buy intricately crafted wine glasses and corkscrews to add to your collection.

Macarons

If you’re looking for sweet French treats to take back home with you, then macarons are the ones to go for. Renowned for their colourful appearance and delicate texture, these almond based cookies are small and round. The sandwich cookies can contain various fillings, such as jam, buttercream, and ganache.

Where To Shop

Champs-Elysees: For high-street brands, luxury brands, gadgets, and fine foods.
Avenue Montaigne: For luxury items, high-end fashion brands, and accessories.
Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honore: For luxury boutiques.
Galeries Lafayette: For accessories, fashion products, beauty items, home accessories, and luxury products.
Saint-Germain-des-Pres: For designer boutiques, high-end fashion brands, accessories, gourmet food.

Things To Remember When Shopping In France

Greet the vendors and shopkeepers with “bonjour” and treat them respectfully. If they appear busy, smile at them or nod your head. Not doing so is usually considered rude.
Cash is preferred at most of the markets and smaller establishments. Therefore, make sure to carry cash when you’re shopping at the local markets.
The best produce and flowers are available early in the day. So, reach the markets accordingly.
Bring a tote bag or trolley to carry everything you shop for, as it will make the process easier.
If you’re looking at the produce in the local markets, read the sign to find out which country it is from.
Don’t touch the produce. Instead, point it out to the vendor so they can fetch it for you.
The stores in rural areas and the independent retailers usually have shorter working hours.
The shops in France are usually open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.
The bigger shopping centres or the shops in larger towns mostly remain open non-stop.

Dos and Don’ts For Indian Travellers

French people usually greet one another with a kiss on both cheeks while gently pouting and making a kissing sound.
If you go to a gathering with multiple people present, make sure to greet everyone individually to avoid being considered rude.
Remember to say “bon appétit” before starting a meal.
Don’t talk or keep your mouth open while eating. Wipe your mouth gently after having a drink.
Once you’ve finished eating, place your knife and fork parallel to each other on the right side or in the centre of the plate.
Before the main course, you will likely have a pre-dinner drink accompanied by conversations and finger foods. This can last anywhere from 30 minutes to three hours.
Wine is an integral part of French cuisine. If you don’t wish to have any more wine during a meal, you can convey this to the host by leaving your current glass mostly full.
Don’t leave food on your plate, especially when eating at someone’s home.
If someone invites you to their home, remember to bring a good quality gift for the host. People usually open their gifts after receiving them.
If you plan on bringing wine for the host, make sure it’s of the best quality. The French take their wines very seriously.
Visiting someone’s home unannounced or uninvited is considered rude in France.
If you display poor etiquette or manners, be prepared to be subtly dismissed by the service industry workers in France, such as waiters and sales people.
Unless you’re in a casual setting, sitting with your legs spread apart is considered rude. Instead, sit up straight with your legs crossed at the knee or keep your knees together.
Be ready for people to arrive at least 15 minutes late for a social gathering.
While having a meal in a group, remember to serve others before serving yourself.
Guests are usually expected to dress up well for dinner. However, remember not to go overboard.
Keep both your hands on the table while eating.

Foods To Try Out In France

Baguettes, crepes, ratatouille, escargots; whether you have tasted French food or not, chances are you have heard of the various dishes that form a part of the country’s cuisine. This is because French food is renowned worldwide, and you can get to taste the country’s dishes when you visit France with our France tour packages.

French cooking has evolved greatly over the centuries. Their dishes focus on fresh ingredients and simple flavours. The French also believe in using formal techniques and presenting their food in an excellent manner. Different regions of France feature different ingredients and food items. The Provence region of France, for example, is known for ratatouille. While quenelles are popular in Lyon, Brittany is famous for its crepes.

French cuisine comprises of a wide variety of cheeses, wines, breads, desserts, and so on. Let’s take a look at which of the French dishes you must absolutely try out during your trip:

Boeuf Bourguignon

Boeuf bourguignon, also known as boeuf Burgundy, started out as a peasant dish in the Burgundy region of France. It’s a French stew made using beef, onions, garlic, carrots, bouquet garni, beef stock, flour, and butter. The stew is usually garnished with mushrooms, pearl onions, and bacon. You can pair the dish with a variety of items, such as mashed potatoes, French bread, pasta, or green beans.

There has been an ongoing debate forever as to which types of wine and cuts of beef are best suited to make boeuf bourguignon. However, the common consensus is that the dish intensifies in taste when left overnight before being served.

Coq au Vin

Coq au vin apparently has its roots in the Roman period and is said to have been present during Julius Caesar’s time. It’s a classic French dish with chicken as the primary ingredient. To make this dish, the chicken is braised with butter, onions, lardons, mushrooms, red wine, and sometimes even garlic. The red wine used in the concoction is traditionally from the Burgundy region of France.

The dish is seasoned with parsley, salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf. The mixture is then left to simmer until tender. Coq au vin tastes fabulous with buttered French beans and creamed potatoes.

Steak Tartare

Steak tartare is a famous French dish made using raw beef. It is made using raw ground beef, which is finely chopped and seasoned. The only topping on this dish is a raw egg yolk. The seasoning includes sliced pickles, capers, shallots, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. You can usually pair steak tartare with Melba toast or French bread.

The dish was quite popular in the 1920s. However, its popularity dwindled in the late 20th century. Recently, though, it has been making a comeback in France.

Bouillabaisse

Bouillabaisse, originally made by local fishermen in Marseille, is a traditional Provencal fish soup. From being a poor man’s dish, it has now evolved to become a staple in numerous Michelin-starred restaurants. Some of the most common kinds of fish used to make bouillabaisse are sea robin, red rascasse, and European conger. However, other types of fish can also be used, such as gilt-head bream, mullet, monkfish, and European hake.

Other ingredients used to make bouillabaisse include fish, celery, tomatoes, leeks, potatoes, onions, special Provencal herbs and spices, and seafood such as velvet crabs, sea urchins, or octopus. The soup is usually served with rouille, spread over slices of garlic bread.

Creme Brulee

Once you need a break from all the fabulous sightseeing in France and are in the mood for something sweet, do have the creme brulee. This custard-based dessert is infused with the goodness of vanilla. It’s made using sugar, cream, and egg yolks and has a coating of hardened caramelised sugar. The dessert is usually served cold in a small ramekin dish and is often garnished with fruit.

Tarte Tatin

Tarte Tatin is one of the crowning jewels of France’s pastry world. It’s an upside-down tart made with fruits, usually apples. The apples are caramelised in sugar and butter before baking the tart. The pastry is placed atop the caramelised fruit, after which it is flipped. There are several stories surrounding the origin of this dish. One of the most famous ones is that it was created by Stephanie Tatin by accident.

Two sisters named Stephanie and Caroline Tatin ran the Hotel Tatin in Lamotte-Beuvron. Stephanie was the one who did most of the cooking. One day, she was extremely overworked during the late 19th century while making a traditional apple pie. The exhaustion led her to leave the apples cooking in sugar and butter longer than needed. To salvage the situation, she topped the apples with pastry and inserted the entire pan in the oven to bake. After taking it out of the oven, she flipped the dish on a plate and served it to the customers. To her surprise, the verdict was unanimously positive, and that’s how this dessert was born.

Salade Nicoise

Salade Nicoise is a popular French salad whose origins can be traced back to the city of Nice in France. It consists of lettuce, tomatoes, Nicoise olives, herbs, anchovies, tuna, and hard-boiled eggs. The dressing is usually olive oil, but some versions also use vinaigrette.

Once the salad’s popularity went beyond the boundaries of Nice, new ingredients began to be added, such as cucumbers, fava beans, red bell peppers, and potatoes. Purists believe this salad should not contain vinegar, lettuce, or boiled vegetables such as potatoes and green beans.

Escargots

Escargots are definitely one of the most famous dishes from French cuisine. Having its roots in Roman times, this dish is for the adventurous eaters out there. Do you want to know why? It’s because escargots are snails served as food. Also known as Burgundy snails, they are served warm inside their shells or in a dish with six to 12 small compartments. To complement the buttery and rich flavour of the dish, it is usually served with bread.

No ordinary snails are used to make escargots. In fact, the common snail species used to make this dish are the Burgundy snails, which are highly protected in France.

Crepes

One of the most delightful parts about booking our France tour packages is that you will experience the goodness of crepes. These extremely thin pancakes can be sweet or savoury, and you can consume them for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Buckwheat flour is used for savoury pancakes, and wheat flour is used for the sweet version. The other ingredients that go into making crepes are butter, milk, eggs, water, and salt.

There are various kinds of crepe fillings available. The sweet ones usually have custard, fruits, whipped cream, or hazelnut cocoa spread. The savoury ones can have cheese, mushrooms, ham, eggs, artichoke, or even ratatouille.

Art And Culture In France

Literature

French literature is said to have started with the Oath of Strasbourg in 842. It was a military pact signed between Charles the Bald and Louis the German, and its text is present in Old French. During the Middle Ages, there was a lot of lyric poetry that spoke about romantic love. There were also the Arthurian romances crafted by Chretien de Troyes and the creation of epic poems like La Chanson de Roland. During the Renaissance, artists such as Michel de Montaigne, Francois Rabelais, and Pierre de Ronsard gained international recognition. Jean Racine and Pierre Corneille contributed to the development of French neoclassical dramas. The literary names who gained prominence during the 19th century were Stendhal, Emile Zola, Gustave Flaubert, Honore de Balzac, Victor Hugo, Arthur Rimbaud, and Charles Baudelaire. The artists who became famous in the 20th century were Milan Kundera, Samuel Beckett, Gao Xingjian, and Andrei Makine.

Movies

Motion-picture technology was invented by the Lumiere brothers, Auguste and Louis Lumiere. During the 1930s, France experienced a cinematic movement known as Poetic Realism, which was a type of realist drama. The Cannes Film Festival, which is one of the biggest and most prestigious film festivals in the world, has been held since 1946.

During the Cannes Film Festival, the audience gets to watch movies that revolve around characters who go through various emotions, such as love, hope, joy, and loss. The subtleties of French society are reflected well in these movies, along with the nuances of the human condition and the complicated nature of human relationships. The captivating performances of French actors can be viewed by the audience during this film festival while also appreciating the poignant music and imaginative cinematography. In addition to mainstream cinema, French cinema also promotes arthouse movies and independent films.

Art and architecture

Art is an inseparable part of France, particularly when it comes to Paris. The city showcases a wide range of architectural and cultural styles, symbolising different stages of France’s history. Several kinds of artistic and architectural influences can be seen in France’s structures, including Romanesque, Gothic, Neoclassical, and Rococo. Various renowned artists are connected to the Impressionist movement in France, including Claude Monet, Camille Pissarro, and Edgar Degas. Right from the Renaissance palaces to the Gothic cathedrals, there is so much of France’s architecture that you will get to witness with our France tour packages.

Fashion

Paris is known to be one of the major fashion capitals of the world. Therefore, it’s not surprising that France is popular for its style and fashion. Most of the people in France dress in a fashionable, sophisticated, and professional manner while also being elegant. Typical French outfits often feature scarves, long coats, beautiful dresses, berets, and suits. Haute couture, which originated in Paris in the mid-19th century, refers to high-end, custom fitted clothes. In fact, the term is protected by law and is defined by the Paris Chamber of Commerce. There is the Paris Fashion Week, a biannual fashion event held in France that is regarded as a significant event in the fashion industry. France is home to numerous luxury fashion brands, such as Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton, and Yves Saint Laurent.

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