The Ultimate Guide to International Travel in France: Your Complete 2025 Travel Guide

France continues to captivate international travelers with its unparalleled blend of culture, cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're planning your first visit to Paris or exploring hidden gems across the French countryside, this comprehensive travel guide will help you make the most of your French adventure.

France Tourism Statistics: A Global Leader in 2025

France welcomed over 100 million international visitors in 2024, generating €71 billion in international revenue - a remarkable 12% increase that solidifies its position as the world's top tourist destination. The tourism sector contributes approximately €254.7 billion to France's national economy, accounting for 9% of the country's GDP, making it one of the most important economic drivers.

Forecasts predict international tourist arrivals will continue increasing through 2029, with an expected growth of 19 million additional visitors, making now the perfect time to plan your French getaway.

Best places to visit in France: top destinations for international travelers

Paris: The city of light

No France travel guide would be complete without highlighting Paris, the country's crown jewel. Home to the iconic Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral (recently reopened), Paris offers world-class attractions, dining, and shopping. Historic Montmartre district boasts cobbled streets, local art, and vibrant cafes, providing the quintessential Parisian experience.

French Riviera: Luxury and Mediterranean charm

The Côte d'Azur attracts millions seeking sun, luxury, and glamour. From Nice's Promenade des Anglais to Cannes' prestigious film festival venues, the French Riviera delivers sophistication and natural beauty.

Loire Valley: Château country

Experience France's royal heritage through the magnificent châteaux scattered throughout the Loire Valley. These architectural masterpieces offer insight into French history and aristocratic life.

Provence: Lavender fields and medieval villages

Discover authentic France in Provence's picturesque villages, famous lavender fields, and local markets selling regional specialties.

Normandy: History and natural beauty

From Normandy's Mont Saint Michel to the D-Day beaches, this region combines historical significance with stunning coastal landscapes.

Must-visit attractions in France

Disneyland Paris remains the most visited attraction in France with 14.8 million yearly visitors, making it essential for family travelers. Beyond theme parks, France offers:

• Eiffel Tower: Paris's most recognizable landmark

• Louvre Museum: World's largest art museum

• Palace of Versailles: Ultimate symbol of French royal opulence

• Mont Blanc: Europe's highest peak in the French Alps

• Château de Chambord: Loire Valley's architectural masterpiece

• Pont du Gard: Roman engineering marvel in southern France

French cuisine and wine: A culinary journey

France's gastronomic reputation is legendary, with each region offering unique culinary specialties:

• Burgundy: World-renowned wines and coq au vin

• Champagne: Home of the famous sparkling wine

• Lyon: France's gastronomic capital with traditional bouchons

• Bordeaux: Prestigious wine region and UNESCO World Heritage city

• Brittany: Fresh seafood and authentic crêpes

Planning your trip to France: Essential travel tips

Best time to visit France

• Spring (April-June): Mild weather, fewer crowds, blooming gardens

• Summer (July-August): Peak season with warm weather but larger crowds

• Fall (September-November): Harvest season, pleasant temperatures, autumn colors

• Winter (December-March): Christmas markets, ski season in the Alps

Transportation in France

France boasts excellent transportation infrastructure:

• TGV High-Speed Trains: Connect major cities efficiently

• Regional Trains: Access to smaller towns and villages

• Metro Systems: Paris, Lyon, and Marseille offer comprehensive urban transport

• Car Rental: Ideal for exploring rural areas and wine regions

Where to stay in France

Accommodation options cater to every budget and preference:

• Luxury Hotels: Palace hotels in Paris and resort destinations

• Boutique Hotels: Unique properties in city centers and countryside

• Châteaux Hotels: Historic properties offering royal treatment

• Vacation Rentals: Apartments and houses for longer stays

French culture and etiquette for international visitors

Understanding French culture enhances your travel experience:

• Language: Learning basic French phrases is appreciated

• Dining Customs: Lunch typically 12-2pm, dinner after 7pm

• Business Hours: Many shops close 12-2pm and on Sundays

• Tipping: 5-10% in restaurants, round up for café service

• Dress Code: French style tends toward elegant and understated

Budget planning for your France trip

Average daily costs (per person):

• Budget Travel: €50-80 (hostels, local restaurants, public transport)

• Mid-Range: €250-400 (4-star hotels, moderate restaurants, some taxis)

• Luxury: €600+ (4-5 star hotels, fine dining, private transport)

Money-saving tips:

• Purchase museum passes for multiple attractions

• Eat lunch at brasseries for better prices than dinner

• Use public transportation instead of taxis

• Visit during shoulder seasons for lower accommodation rates

Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations

While popular destinations attract millions, France offers countless hidden treasures:

• Annecy: "Venice of the Alps" with pristine lakes

• Colmar: Fairy-tale Alsatian town with timber-framed houses

• Rocamadour: Medieval pilgrimage site built into cliffsides

• Èze: Perched village on the French Riviera

• Saint-Émilion: Wine village with underground catacombs

Seasonal events and festivals

France's calendar overflows with cultural celebrations:

• Cannes Film Festival (May): International cinema glamour

• Tour de France (July): World's most famous cycling race

• Avignon Festival (July): International theater celebration

• Christmas Markets (December): Festive atmosphere in Alsace and beyond

• Lavender Harvest (July-August): Provence's purple landscapes

Transportation and getting around

International Airports:

• Charles de Gaulle (CDG): Main international hub near Paris

• Orly (ORY): Secondary Paris airport

• Nice Côte d'Azur: Gateway to the French Riviera

• Lyon-Saint Exupéry: Central France access point

Domestic travel options:

France's excellent infrastructure makes travel between regions seamless, whether by high-speed rail, regional trains, or well-maintained highways.

Conclusion: Why France remains the world's Top destination

With record-breaking visitor numbers and revenue growth, France continues proving why it's the world's most visited country. From Paris's timeless elegance to Provence's rustic charm, from Alpine adventures to Riviera luxury, France offers experiences that create lifelong memories.

Whether you're interested in world-class museums, Michelin-starred dining, historical landmarks, or simply soaking up the French art de vivre, your journey to France promises to be extraordinary. Start planning your French adventure today and join the millions of international visitors who discover new reasons to fall in love with this remarkable country each year.

For further information and to organize your stay in France, please contact our team.