FRANCE

I first visited France on a school trip at the tender age of 11 and have returned more times than I can count. Few countries in Europe offer such diversity in landscapes and experiences.

By some counts, Paris may be the most visited city in the world but I prefer France’s more understated cities like Nimes, Bordeaux, Strasbourg and Lille. Beyond the cities, lush vineyards produce renowned wines, villages ooze with charm and the countryside invites exploration, from the lavender fields of Provence to the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast.

woamn in sunglasses holding a glass of champagne
Champagne tasting in Reims

FRANCE IN A NUTSHELL

  • Capital: Paris
  • Currency: Euro (EUR)
  • Population: 68 million
  • Official language: French
  • Time zone: UTC+1 

SOLO TRAVEL RATING

  • Solo travel rating: 4 out of 5
  • Risk to women travellers: Low
  • Travel costs: Moderate
  • Recommended for first-time solo travellers: Yes
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