Things To Do
in France

Large open-air market with fresh produce, cheese, seafood and prepared foods; great for picnic supplies and local specialties.

Historic market in Nice with flowers, regional produce and Provençal delicacies; nearby stalls sell socca and pan bagnat.

A lively market offering affordable produce, cheeses and street-food snacks; good for authentic atmosphere and bargains.

Street vendors and small crêperies offer sweet crêpes and savory buckwheat galettes—perfect for a quick, inexpensive bite.

Service charge is usually included in restaurant bills ('service compris'), but it’s customary to leave small change or round up for good service. In cafés, taxis and for small services, tipping a few euros or 5–10% for exceptional service is appreciated but not mandatory.

Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in cities and larger businesses; many smaller shops and rural establishments prefer cash. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly common. ATMs are widely available.

Mild temperatures, blooming gardens and fewer crowds than summer; ideal for city sightseeing and countryside drives. Expect occasional rain—pack a light waterproof and layered clothing.

Warm to hot weather, long daylight hours and peak tourist season (especially July–August); coastal areas and festivals are lively but prices and crowds rise. Book accommodation early and seek shade and hydration during heat waves.

Crisp air, fall colors in vineyards and forests, and harvest season—excellent for wine tasting and food festivals. Temperatures are comfortable, though evenings cool; some tourist services scale back after peak season.

Cool to cold weather—mild along the Mediterranean, snowy in the Alps and Pyrenees where skiing is popular. City visits are quieter and can be atmospheric with holiday markets; pack warm layers for northern and mountain regions.

Concentrated in large cities like Paris, Lyon and Marseille; diverse in background and occupations with broad cultural amenities.

Often older demographic profiles in some regions, maintaining local traditions, agriculture and small-town life.

France has sizable communities from North Africa, sub-Saharan Africa, Portugal, Italy and other regions, contributing to multicultural urban neighborhoods.

Significant numbers of expatriates and long-stay internationals in major cities and coastal regions, plus large seasonal tourist influxes in summer.

The most popular sport nationwide with passionate club followings (Ligue 1) and widespread amateur participation.

Especially popular in the southwest regions (Toulouse, Bordeaux), with strong local traditions and top-level competitions.

Major national pastime highlighted by the Tour de France; cycling culture ranges from recreational rides to elite racing.

A traditional boules game common in southern France, played socially in village squares and parks.

Vegetarian options are increasingly common in cities, with vegetable tarts, salads and cheese plates; in smaller towns, focus on markets, omelettes and vegetable-forward dishes and ask for 'sans viande' (without meat).

Vegan options are expanding in urban areas but less available rurally; carry translations like 'Je suis végan(e)' and look for specialty cafés or vegan menus in major cities.

Awareness of gluten-free diets is growing; bakeries often do not offer gluten-free bread, so seek dedicated shops or request 'sans gluten' and check ingredients for sauces and pâtisseries.

Be specific about allergies (e.g., 'Je suis allergique aux noix' for nut allergy) and consider carrying a translated allergy card for clarity in restaurants.