In a few weeks from now, we will have the pleasure to introduce and present to you our new website Franc Parler Tours.

We are one of the fastest growing French travel specialist, offering a wide range tours, shows and various experiences. We pride ourselves in being a small team of dedicated French based travel professionals standing by to provide our guests with a dream holiday to France.

This platform aim to be the tourists preferred destination to book their travel and attractions when visiting Paris and France.

There are plenty of things to do in the Bordeaux regions located south west of France. From wine tasting tours in the most prestigious wine region of the world to river cruises or simply explore the city to discover it by foot or riding a bike.

Tour the Cote d’Azur and its most iconic places such as Nice, Menton, Toulon, the medieval village of Grasse, the principality of Monaco. From the glamour of Cannes to the busy and flashy St-Tropez, discover some of Europe’s most stunning sceneries.

Stroll through the Champagne wine route that just recently became a Unesco World Heritage site. Visit the most prestigious family run cellars and world-renowned vineyards. Located only an hour from the French capital city, taste and experience the world of Champagne.

Only a few hours from Paris, visit the region that used to be the French royalty’s backyard. Famous for its castles, wines and tasty cheese, UNESCO made this valley a World Heritage site in 2000. Browse through our day tours to the best Loire Valley Chateaux.

Visit the jewel of southern France, the Provence region famous for its lavender fields, home of some of the finest wines and cities that hosted some of the most prolific artists of their generation such as Van Gogh and Cézanne. We will make your vacation in Provence an unforgettable experience.

Discover amazing Normandy sites such as the World Heritage Mont Saint Michel, the D-Day beaches, Giverny as well as the cities of Caen and Bayeux. Be amazed by the incredible Normandy coast line and French historical treasures.

Gers and Gascogne coming soon!

Visit France – The Land Of The Past, The Present and The Future

If you plan on vacationing around Europe, you should take a really close look at France. France is such a diversified country and almost impossible to cover with many visits. If Brittany is on your schedule, you should stop by Carnac to view one of the oldest and largest collection of prehistoric standing stones in the entire world; known as the Carnac Stones. Visit Nantes to behold the massive and amazingly exquisite château des ducs de Bretagne, the permanent residence of the last dukes.

France has magnetized people from all over the world due to it’s endless opportunities for visitors of all tastes and lifestyles. Very few cities have ever reached the apex of Paris – The City of Lights. Her countryside will gently guide you back in time as you visit buildings older than some entire countries.

For historians, there are vast areas that cover everything from the invasion of the Romans to World War II military sites. Artists will reel over the number of legendary artists that created their immortality in Paris, including Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec who captured the theatrical life of Paris in the 19th century. Other Post-Impressionists in Paris included Cézanne, Van Gogh and Gauguin. Food enthusiasts, what can you say? The France are renown for their food and wine!

From the canyons of the Pyrenees, half-moon bays of Corsica or the limestone hills of Provence, France is vast in places to visit and steeped in amazing history. With so many regions, it’s incredible to realize each region is completely different from the others. The lush valleys of Dordogne, the gentle meadows of Loire valley to the glacial peaks of the Alps. The French people, throughout the country refer to their regions as “mon pays” or “my country”. This thought has lasted throughout the centuries from Louis XIV to Charles de Gaulle.

While traveling around France, you will discover how vast and spacious the countryside really is. There are areas of woodland and undeveloped areas where you will not see so much as one house. This is probably the biggest reason why industrialization came to France much later than other European countries. The French hold firmly to the importance of the land which is a large part of their culture, regional pride in local cuisine and defender of their agricultural appropriations. There are literally hundreds of villages and towns that have barely changed from centuries past. Their homes, streets are as much a part of their lives as their hills, rivers and fields.

History

For well over a thousand years, France has been the leader of European development, accumulated wealth and elder experience. With such a rich history, as you travel from county to county, you will sense the power of France’s past. From Dordogne’s prehistoric cave paintings to Roman monuments in the south. Visit Gothic cathedrals to the north and châteaux of the Loire with it’s grandeur.

More On The Carnac Stones

Most of the stones are within the Breton village of Carnac, but some to the east are within La Trinité-sur-Mer. The stones were erected at some stage during the Neolithic period, probably around 3300 BC, but some may date to as old as 4500 BC. – Wikipedia

Here is a quick overview of the famous region of Bretagne shot with a drone using a 4K camera

Shot by Sander Coppens, using a drone avec caméra intégrée DJI Phantom 3 4K with ND4 filter.

Traveling Around France

There are so many things to do in this country that it’s almost impossible to name everything. Whether you are more of a city person tripping the nightlife of Paris or taking in mountain ranges, cathedrals or living for their world famous cuisine. There is something for everyone. There are endless outdoor activities from canoeing, cycling, skiing, sailing or hiking. For that city enthusiast – night clubs, fashion shows, movies, shops, music or a sidewalk cafe!

Traditions, famous throughout the world, include their food, their pottery and haute couture. Their strong support for the arts within the film industry as well as their innovative museums and galleries. They are also leaders in aeroplane design, colonial history and even fishing techniques. The list can go on and on, but without doubt their most famous and outstanding tradition is within the fine arts in Paris. Paris has nurtured and embraced the most famous of creative artists over the past 2 centuries. The French artists: Monet & Matisse and Foreign artists such as Picasso and Van Gogh. These artists spent many years residing among the Parisian people and perfecting their own styles.

Symbols Of France

I think most people equate France with the Eiffel Tower, great foods, wines and cheeses. France is a beautiful and amazing country that will always offer another surprise each time to visit. Their food is excellent, their history is breathtaking and the overall atmosphere is carefree. Have a countryside picnic or along the Seine. Take in its extraordinary ruins, castles, architecture that leaves her landscape mind-boggling. Where ever you roam throughout this wonderful country, you will find something exceptional. If you want to walk back in time, it’s here. If you want to dance the night away, it’s here. If you want to visit gardens painted by Monet, it’s here.

Expenses

France is a very expensive venture only exceeded by Italy. Shop around for affordable accommodations and bring a few extra Euros to take in the food, the beauty and the wine. Bordeaux in the south West of the country as well as the cote d’azur located south East are also two pricey destinations. Let’s look at some cost cutters that might just work well for you:

Accommodations

There are Dorm Rooms that range from 15 to 40 EUR per night. This depends on where you are staying within the country, Paris, the French Riviera and Bordeaux being the most expensive.

Private Rooms in Hostels will run you approximately 75 EUR +. There are budget hotels that start off at 60 EUR per night. The good news is, as you move further out from Paris, the French Riviera and Bordeaux, accommodations will be less expensive.

Another alternative is looking for rooms to rent or an apartment. This choice will serve you best in a city like Paris.

Food

Food, undoubtedly, is an experience in France. If you buy your own food you can save a great deal of money and is rather cheap. There are many cheese, bread and meat shops everywhere so take advantage of them. Stop by these shops, gather some favorites and go on a picnic! You can easily put together your own lunch for approximately 10 EUR for two people and that includes wine! You may also pickup pre-made sandwiches at local shops for approximately 4 to 7 EUR. Eating out at a restaurant will cost you between 20 to 35 EUR for one meal and a glass of wine. If you can afford it, opt to pick one night for a restaurant treat, you won’t regret it. The upside is, shopping for all your food will only cost you about 45 to 65 EUR for an entire week.

Transportation

OK, you’ve got to be able to get around the countryside as well as within cities. The best way is via train service. Overnight trains are less expensive vs the faster high-speed TGV train lines. The TGV lines will run you around 90 EUR, while local train systems are around 1 to 3 EUR, per trip, and are very reliable. Transportation from airports into cities are pretty affordable and very user friendly. To go from Charles de Gaulle airport to Paris is around 12 EUR. Taxi travel is pretty expensive on a budget, so stay away from them if you possibly can.

Fun Things To Do

Wine tours are very popular but are also the most expensive activity, ringing in at 90 EUR per day! Other attractions such as museums with entrance fees between 9 to 20 EUR. There are parks and other sites that will cost little to nothing, so do your homework before deciding where you’d like to hang out in France.

Other Things To Do And See In France

If you plan to stay in Paris, this city offers absolutely everything! Museums, the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, parks, clubs, the Seine, other culture sites and again – great food!

Paris is the perfect place for those who love art and food, this is Paris’ history. It’s considered one of the most magical places on earth, though it will take your entire lifetime to cover everything! Stay for about 4 to 5 days to get a good idea how much there really is within The City of Lights! Paris is considered one of the most favorite cities in the entire world among tourists. You will find something new every time you visit. Don’t try to take in too much, take your time, enjoy each day, drink some wine and just soak in Paris.

Normandy

The beaches of D-Day, WWII Allied forces landed along the beach of northern France. There are many memorials and museums that cover the history of the historical event. It’s a place definitely worth visiting. If you are a history buff, you should visit Normandy!

Versailles

Located very near Paris, the Palace of Versailles was the home of French kings and built by Luis XIV. It was constructed at the height of France’s power and wealth. It’s is as spectacular today as it was back then. Occupation by French Kings came crashing down during the French Revolution in 1789.

Loire Valley

This is the loveliest and most picturesque areas in all of France. The vineyards and chateaus are absolutely breathtaking. You will discover some the finest wines in the world, perfect small town ambiance and the best of foods. Loire Valley should not go by without a visit.

Bordeaux

Some of the very best wine in the entire world is made here in Bordeaux. That said, it’s rather expensive and really not for those on a tight budget. That said, it is an absolutely beautiful area of France. If you love seafood, this is the place to be with its seaside access and wine! Next to Paris, this is one of the most popular destinations.

Nice (pronounced Neece)

Nice Is Nice! The only way you will find out how “nice” Nice is going there! Nice is a seaside town in the southern region of France and is a very popular destination among those on a budget. It’s a great place to soak up the sun when places like Cannes or Monaco are non-affordable. It’s central location makes it an ideal place to explore the coastal areas and there’s plenty to explore.

Lyon

Visit amazing castles and small villages that step back in time. If you are into exploring the countryside, Lyon is the perfect destination. This is medieval France and is a UNESCO World Heritage place. You will definitely feel like you have taken a time machine back in time!

Monaco

This famous tiny kingdom offers tiny streets, exquisite buildings and some of the world’s most famous casinos and million dollar yachts. Rub shoulders with the elite who come to visit Cote D’Azur during the summer.

St. Tropez

Catch a boat to St. Tropez, relax around beautiful hillside towns, swim in the most beautiful, azure blue waters while rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous.

Alsace

A northeast region of France is a wonderful place to spend some vacation time. Comar is quite old and the main attraction. Some the buildings here date back to 1300!

Parc de la Villette

There is a large collection of architectural follies, theme gardens and plenty of open space to explore. It is host to a science museum and some strange attractions. It’s great for both adults and children alike and is a great place to stop off. Your kids will have a lot of fun here.

France – World War I

During World War I, France was ground zero! There are so many areas that still show the damage caused over those years around the country. There were 2 very significant battles at Vimy Ridge and Verdun. Both of these sites have excellent tourist centers and facilities. This is another must for historians.

Roman Ruins

Explore some of the oldest ruins outside of Italy. Nimes, Arles and Orange offers some of the most beautiful Roman theatres. Nimes has a well preserved temple as well. These place are a very worthwhile place to visit while walking back in time!

Carcassonne

This medieval town is a walled city (which still remains walled) in the south of France. The story goes that a towns woman fed remaining food to a pig. Once fattened up, they tossed it over the wall so that it seemed they were so well fed, they were actually wasteful and gluttonous. The attacking soldiers simply gave up and went home. This town still retains its medieval atmosphere and has many great shops to explore. This town is older than some countries!

The French Alps

Some of the very best slopes in all of Europe. If you are in France during the winter months and love to ski, form a group, rent a chalet or stay at one of the slope side hotels and enjoy a long day on the slopes. The French Alps has been drawing seasoned skiers for many, many years and is never a disappointment.

Culinary Delights

Culinary delights are to die for! Breakfast with warm croissants from the boulangerie, visit Parisian bistros, shop at the local markets that are second nature to the French. There is no place that offers a larger variety of magnificent foods to enjoy each and every day. Crepes in Brittany, Champagne flutes in ancient Reims and the list is endless! Visit the world famous Champagne region located near Reims for an amazing wine tasting experience!

Art de Vivre

The rhythm of life is dictated by the seasons. Rural France exudes intimacy that is irresistible. Live the French lifestyle, embrace her luxuries and simple ways of life. French coffee, croissants in a cafe or strolling through the lily gardens that Monet painted. Walk along a beach in Brittany while soaking in cultural styles and languages, music and mythology from 5th century Celtics.

Montmartre

Montmartre is a section of Paris and houses the famous dance hall the Moulin Rouge that first opened in 1889 and was made famous by the Post-Impressionist Toulouse-Lautrec. His famous work included the cancan dancers and other actors and performers, making this hall world-famous.

Conclusion

For your next holiday or vacation, come to the magical land of France. Discover their history in theatre and art. Visit the beautiful vineyard regions while enjoying a wine tasting. Visit the Moulin Rouge, made famous by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec’s beautiful impressionist paintings of cancan dancers. View the lights of Paris from the Eiffel Tower. Stay a week, stay a month, stay a year – you will never get to see everything!

France has such an amazing place to visit, magnifying existence and being legendary for everything from fine arts, food, wine and surrealistic landscape. It is a perfect country, offering an amazing history, culture and totally impossible to cover everything within your lifetime. While relaxing at a sidewalk cafe – bon appétit!

Credits Images

• Wikipedia
• Pixabay
• Shutterstock
• Amateurs de Drones