Guide to France. Everything about holidays in France: reviews, tips, guide Private guide in Avignon - Elena Capo

I was 26 when I came to France..... and then I just fell in love with this country. I received my higher education in Paris and since 2005 I have been working in the hotel and tourism sector, sharing my love for this magical country.

This city has countless routes, secret places, cozy cafes, hidden passages and I really want every tourist to see Paris from its best side! Where can you find the best hot chocolate? Where to try the masterpieces of French cuisine? Where true Parisians spend their time and many other interesting secret places in Paris from @mlle_lana_p.

• The best way to start exploring Paris for the first time is from the Ile de la Cité and Notre Dame de Paris. It seems to me that this is where the soul of the city is.
• You can have a delicious breakfast in Paris at the Clause cafe (14 rue Jean Jacques Rousseau). This establishment specializes specifically in breakfast. Café Сoutume (47 rue de Babylone). The cafe is located in the heart of the city, on the left bank next to the oldest shopping center Le Bon Marché. The establishment is famous for its quality coffee and excellent breakfasts. Café Coutume has incredible charm.
• Go to the museum. If you come to Paris for the first time, I would advise you to go to the Orsay Museum (the largest collection of impressionists is presented here) or Versailles (the cradle of French history).
• Try French cuisine. Start with the classics: escargot, oysters, fondue or raclette, topped with a glass of French wine. It’s not for nothing that French cuisine is included in the UNESCO cultural heritage list. The freshest oysters and escargot can be found in the AubergeDab restaurant (161 Avenue de Malakoff), and the most delicate fondue or raclette in any restaurant in the Latin Quarter.
• Try delicious desserts: It seems to me that in any Parisian boulangerie you can choose a dessert to suit your taste. The main thing is that the boulangerie is Artisanale. Lovers of macarons should definitely visit Pierre Herme (better than Ladurée) (72 Rue Bonaparte), the most delicate profiteroles with cream can be found in Odette (77 rue Galande), the most delicate eclairs in éclair de génie (31 rue Lepic), the best hot chocolate in pastry shop Angelina (226 rue de Rivoli).
• The best way to meet a large group in warm weather is on the Seine embankment and organize a real French picnic with wine, cheese and baguette.

• You can have a romantic date anywhere. Paris itself is an ideal city for a romantic date. An excellent option for a romantic date would be a trip on a pleasure boat along the Saint-Martin Canal. The Canal Saint-Martin is the favorite place of all Parisians, because it is incredibly cozy and there are no crowds of tourists. The canal cruise lasts about 2.5 hours and starts from Port de l'Arsenal to Bassin de la Villette. Lovers of old black and white cinema can go to the Parisian cinema or to Cinéma Studio 28 and Le Balzac.
• You can see the “other” Paris in completely unexpected places, once you get off the tourist path. The favorite areas of Parisians include the Marais quarter (Le Marais). The Marais quarter is located on the right bank of the Seine. There are many creative boutiques and interesting restaurants located here. In addition, the oldest square in Paris, the Vosges Square, is located here. Such prominent personalities as Cardinal Richelieu and Victor Hugo lived in the house on Place des Vosges. Flea markets are a whole world. The Paul and Bert Serpette markets are one of the main centers of Parisian fashion. There is a large selection of antiques, paintings, vintage clothing and accessories. Parisians' favorite places to spend time are parks: Parc Seau, Bois de Boulogne and Parc Monceau.

• You can get acquainted with French clothing brands in large shopping centers such as Galeries Lafayette (40 Boulevard Haussmann), Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche (24 rue de Sevres). Printemps Haussmann (64 Boulevard Haussmann). Favorite clothing brands of Parisians: Sandro Paris, Maje, Camaïeu, Jules (only clothes for men).
• The best way to enjoy the panorama of the city is from the panoramic platform of the Galeries Lafayette shopping center, the Arc de Triomphe, the Notre Dame de Paris Cathedral, as well as the view from the Saint-Jacques Tower (only in summer) and Montparnasse.
• Take a day trip from Paris to the castle of Versailles or Chantilly. Versailles can be reached by high-speed train RER. Choose line C (you can take the desired train at the stations Musee d'Orsay, Champ de Mars-Tour Eifell, Les Invalides, Pont de l'Alma, Invalides, St. Michel-Notre Dame, Gare d'Austerlitz) and go to Versailles station Rive Gauche. You can get to Chantilly Castle by train from Paris North Station. Trains depart every half hour. The ticket costs 10 euros and the journey takes no more than 25 minutes.

Occupying a significant part of the European continent, France is the goal of any trip to Europe. It's difficult to cover everything in one go. Each area looks different, with architectural styles, culinary specialties and even dialects. The country has many attractions - from the northern Gothic cathedrals, boulevards and museums of Paris, to the monuments of the ancient Roman era in the south and the beaches of the Mediterranean and Atlantic.

If you are arriving in the country from the north, you can go from the port cities of Calais or Boulogne (or from) to Paris - one of the most charming European capitals. To the west is the rocky coast of Brittany, to the south are the castles of the Loire. Many tourists flock south to the limestone mountains of Provence, the Pyrenees canyons and the mountains bordering or to the wonderful Côte d'Azur. However, it also makes sense to slowly make your way through the German-speaking cities of Alsace in the east, the gorges, mountains and valleys of the Lot and Dordogne, and adventure seekers can climb to the peaks of the Massif Central.

No matter how many times you travel to France, it is impossible to fully understand its immense diversity. The varied landscapes are stunning, from rugged coastlines and sandy hills to canyons in the Pyrenees and semi-circular bays in the Dordogne, and from the forested valleys of the Dordogne to the picturesque fields of the Loire Valley and glaciers on the peaks of the Alps. Each region of the country looks different, has a special atmosphere and even its own architectural style, culinary dishes and often dialect. Industrialization came relatively late to France, and millions of urban French people still insist that their country is predominantly agricultural.

Respect for the land is reflected in a wide variety of areas of French culture, from pride in one's own region, manifested in recipes for special delicacies, to the government's vigorous support for the European agricultural subsidy program. Perhaps the most striking thing about the French countryside is its vastness. You will see dense forests and uncultivated lands where no habitation is visible for many kilometers. Hundreds of towns and villages, far from large cities, have changed very slowly, gradually over the past years: their old streets and mansions have survived to this day, becoming as integral a part of the landscape as rivers, hills and fields.

Despite the idyllic tranquility that reigns here today, French history has seen unusually turbulent times. For more than a thousand years, France has been at the forefront of European development: evidence of its accumulated wealth and knowledge awaits you everywhere in the form of a stunning variety of attractions: from prehistoric paintings in the primitive caves of the Dordogne and Roman monuments in the south, to Gothic cathedrals in the north, castles of the Loire and the most modern architectural " big projects" in Paris. The heritage of culture and history - "la patrimonie" - is so widespread throughout the country that even the shortest visit allows you to feel the powerful touch of France's past.

The French government is well aware of the importance of the traditional approach and therefore does everything to preserve and develop the national culture (probably more than the government of any other country in the world). Private companies are also feeling this, fighting to strengthen French traditions in such diverse areas as haute couture, pottery and, of course, cooking. The fruits of these efforts are showcased by government-supported art (especially cinema) and luxuriously decorated and original museums and galleries. Across the country, you'll find collections dedicated to everything from colonial history to fishing art, from aircraft design to textiles, from wandering shepherds to the intricacies of manicure. But, of course, the magnificent art galleries of Paris remain in first place.

Where and when to go to France

Traveling around France is easy. Hotels and restaurants flourish here, and many have relatively low prices compared to other developed countries in Western Europe. The trains are very convenient, as is the network of roads (the toll highways, or autoroutes, are especially good), and cyclists are very popular here and are welcomed in every possible way. The necessary information is carefully selected, and it is easy to obtain from travel agencies open throughout the country, as well as from special organizations for lovers of hiking and camping, cyclists and other entertainment.

When it comes to specific cities, Paris is without a doubt an outstanding cultural center: you will be amazed by the majestic buildings, ancient alleys, works of art, fashionable nightlife and ethnic diversity of the population. But the main cities of the regions - , - are now competing with the capital and among themselves for prestigious achievements in the arts, dominance in sports competitions and innovations in order to attract as many tourists as possible. However, for most visitors, the determining factor will be the uniqueness of each region of France (and not least the regional cuisine).

The only important thing to consider when planning a trip to France is the tourism itself. Since most French people prefer to holiday in their own country, try not to go there during the French holiday period: that is, from mid-July to the end of August. At this time, almost everything in the country is closed, except, of course, establishments serving tourists. You can walk a whole kilometer around Paris and still not find a single working bakery: the city is emptying, or rather, there are only tourists there - just like you. Prices at resorts go through the roof during peak season, and often you can’t rent a room at any price.

You should also not come to Easter: it seems that half of the schoolchildren from all over Europe come here at this time. For the same reason, ski lovers should remember the February holidays for young skiers. And if you value your life and want to stay sane, God forbid you get stuck on French roads on the last weekend of July or August (the worst thing is to be there on the weekend of August 15th). When planning a trip, you shouldn’t think too much about the climate. Of course, a skier should not come to the mountains from May to November, and those who want to sunbathe on the beach should not go to the coast in the summer (which does not apply to the Mediterranean coast, where it is best to relax in the spring).

Transport and accommodation in France

France has the most developed railway network in the West - SNCF. There are no railways in the mountainous areas, but SNCF buses are used there. Private bus company services are irregular. SNCF trains are clean, fast and have good schedules. The rates are reasonable. Inter Rail, Eurail, Euro Domino cards are valid, and for high-speed trains TGV (Trains a grand vitesse) mandatory reservation and additional payment during peak hours are required. The slowest trains are marked on the timetable as Autorail and stop at all stops. All tickets (except cards) must be punched in the orange machines that are installed in the station vestibules (gare SNCF).

Any railway route can be interrupted at any time and in any place for a day. Regional railway maps and timetables are sold at tobacco kiosks, and timetable brochures are distributed free of charge. All stations (except the smallest ones) have information desks and most have automatic lockers (consignes automatiques). Autocar signifies the presence of the SNCF bus service, where train tickets and cards are valid. In addition, there are buses in cities, the only thing that can upset you is the rare bus service outside the SNCF network coverage area.

Cyclists are respected in France. This means social distancing (except in big cities) and hotels and restaurants finding ways to store your bikes. Bicycles are allowed free on some SNCF trains and the standard charge is €10. At some train stations and travel agencies you can also rent bicycles for 10-15 euros per day (you may be asked for a deposit or a credit card number).

• Accommodation in France

In most settlements you can find housing. From mid-July to mid-August (when the French have the peak holiday season) it is necessary in advance, with the busiest time being the first weekend of August. All hotels are subject to official classification, and their prices are approximately the same. So, in inexpensive (and not included in the classification list) hotels, a double room will cost 20-30 euros, in two-star hotels - 30-55 euros. Breakfast is sometimes provided for an additional fee (it is better to have breakfast in a cafe). In rural areas there are boarding houses (chambre d'hotes) in houses and farms, the cost of accommodation in which is usually equivalent to that of two-star hotels. It makes sense to use them if you have a Logis de France directory of individual hotels that have reasonable prices.

The country has a wide network of official youth hostels (auberge de jeunesse), which for the most part are distinguished by high standards of service. However, those that cost 8-17 euros per bed (there are more such establishments in Paris) are comparable in cost to the cheapest hotel room. There are two associations of this kind that require HI membership to stay in (however, only the first organization is mentioned in the corresponding HI directory). Several larger cities have more luxurious hotels called Foyers des Travailleurs/-euses, that is, hostels for young workers and students with a room price of about 15 euros. Most of these establishments have good canteens.

In rural areas, authorities organize gites d'etape - idiosyncratic and less formal hostels with beds and kitchens. Lists of these establishments are sold and offered at the travel agency. Almost every locality has at least one campsite. The cheapest of them (from 5 euros per day per person) Camping Municipal are clean and well-equipped facilities. Using a simple tent without permission is not allowed: it happens that farmers will start shooting first and only then ask questions.

Food and drink in France

Food in France is an art. The chefs here are real stars, and dining is a real pleasure (whether at a local diner or at a renowned establishment). Food is not particularly cheap, but as you move away from the popular tourist spots you can find decent plats du jour with wine costing up to 15 euros. It is best to have breakfast in a bar or cafe, where they offer French baguettes and croissants. Espresso and strong coffee: black (un cafe or un express), with milk (un creme), large cup (un grand cafe) and large cup with a lot of hot milk (un cafe and lait). Tea (the) is less popular, although most cafes and restaurants serve it, and hot chocolate (chocolat chaud) is widespread. Each establishment has a full list of drinks at the bar (au comptoir), for seating in the lounge (la salle) or outside (la terrasse), the latter of which can be surprisingly expensive.

The cafe is a good place to have an omelet, sandwiches or the so-called croque-monsieur/madame - variations of a grilled cheese sandwich. Street food stalls include frites (deep-fried potatoes), crepes, galettes (cakes and pancakes) and gaufres (waffles). When it comes to takeaway food, there is nothing better than salads and ready-made main courses from charcuterie and supermarkets. They are sold by weight, or you have to ask for a piece (une tranche), a package (une barguette) or a portion (une part). You can also have lunch at a restaurant (brasserie), which is open all day and serves fast food.

Restaurants are ready to serve food from 12.00-14.00 and until 19.00-21.00/21.30. Cafes and snack bars in the central part of the city are often open until 23.00 or midnight. The menu with prices is posted outside. Usually there is a choice between a fixed menu and an a la carte menu, that is, a la carte, which is more expensive, but is often the only option after 21.00. At lunchtime and in the evening you should look for the special dishes (plat du jour) costing only 10-15 euros. The words service compris mean that the cost of service is included in the bill; if this is not the case, then you need to add 15%. Wines (vin) and drinks (boisson) may be present on the fixed menu, and when ordering separately, you need to ask for un quart (250 grams), un demi-litre (half a liter) or une carafe (liter), unless otherwise indicated.

Where you can eat, you can also drink. Booze is often offered in cafes and other street establishments, whether as an aperitif before a meal or as a digestif after a meal. Wine (vin) is drunk with any food and just when meeting. Regular table or ordinary wines (vin de table or vin ordinaire) are generally cheap and really good in wine regions. Wines awarded the AOC (Appellation d'Origine Controlee) label are excellently priced at just €1.50 per bottle. In a café, a glass of wine is simply called un rouge (red) or un blanc (white). When choosing a wine in the AOC category, you can ask for a large (un ballon) or small (un verre) glass.

Among the local beer brands there are the usual Belgian and German varieties, in addition to national brands. Draft beer (a la pression) is the cheapest alcoholic drink in France, along with wine. Some, starting at 5.00, drink stronger drinks during the working day: cognac and armagnac (brandy), fruit vodka (eaux-de-vie) and liqueur. The portions are large, but not particularly cheap. Pastis is a refreshing and inexpensive anise liqueur (popular brands Pernod and Ricard), which is drunk with water and ice (glacons). Refreshments include fresh orange and lemon juices (orange presse/citron presse), mineral water (eau minerale) is available everywhere in bottles with gas (gazeuse) or without (eau plate), but you can ask for free plain water (l'eau du Robinet).

Popular attractions in France

1). Food and wine– Indulge your palate – from coffee and croissants for breakfast to the highest achievements of haute cuisine, including 265 varieties of cheese;

2). Louvre, Paris– A huge, amazing and interesting museum;

3). Luxembourg Gardens, Paris– The most beautiful park in the city, which is ideal for a picnic and a pleasant rest;

4). Chartres Cathedral– A pearl of Gothic architecture;

5). – Center of the Champagne region;