Tips for Traveling to and within France; Things to Do There?

Show all answers

Kaoso

I have been living in France for a number of years, and it is great that you are coming to visit. I lived in Paris for a few years and now I am in Normandy. In Paris, there are tons of things to do that are not touristy. If you are into the local bar scene, go to Oberkampf metro station, there are lots of bars that pretty much only locals, kind of artsy types, go to. There is the St. Martin Canal, which during to summer is a popular hang out spot for young people. (It is in the tenth arrondissement, I believe). Also, the bars and restaurants around Bastille (rue de la Roquette) are quite popular. You can also walk around Les Halles (2nd Arrondissement), especially behind the huge church (St. Ouen), where there are a couple of little streets with restaurants and shops. Also, check out the market at Moufftard (6th).

In Normandy, one of the best places to go is Honfleur. Take the train to Le Havre, and just across the bay, there is a city called Honfleur. (There is most likely a bus to go there from Le Havre). Not many americans go there, but it is very beautiful in the summer time. Also in Normandy, you could go to Giverny. It was the home of Claude Monet, and there are beautiful gardens to walk around in. Only problem, it is very touristy.

There are a lot of hostels in Paris, and at least one or two in other major French cities. In Normandy, that means Rouen or Le Havre. Or Caen, possibly, but Caen is boring.

As for the trains, you shouldn't have any problems. Most French people travel by train, and France has one of the best train systems in the world. You can pretty much go anywhere in the country. French trains rarely leave late, unless there is a strike, so be on time and don't forget to time stamp your ticket (the machines are bright yellow) in the machine right before you get on the train. This validates the ticket for the trip. Also, if you get your ticket and don't use it, or miss the train, you can use the same ticket for a later train no problem, just stamp it in the machine before you use it. The ticket is valid for a certain time (I think an hour) after it is stamped.

Hope this helps, and enjoy your trip!

Julie N

Hi! Last year, my friend and I planned our mid-tour leave to France, Switzerland and Germany on Expedia.com. Really great rates on hotels. I suggest hotels for the privacy. Not much air conditioning in that country and the rooms are small, but I'd bet they're better than hostels. Take the Eurorail. The countryside is gorgeous and the trains are clean, comfortable, and inexpensive.

We went to Paris and Nice, but I would love to see the beaches at Normandy for the history. In Paris, you can just go out for a walk and enjoy the sidewalk cafes, bakeries, people...Most neighborhoods are very nice. Be careful if you go into the NE section where the Sacred Heart Basilica is. Very seedy, but worth the trip. It's the highest section of the city.

Barry C

Hi there,

I have been camping in France for many years now and absolutely love the place. There is always plenty to do and see and the locals are always polite, despite what you might here to the contrary.

The place I always tend to find lots of information and travel guides for France is on Eurocamps website (www.eurocamp.co.uk), where they tell you all about camping in france and even gives a run down on towns in the area and many things to do.

Take a look at the website and you'll be amazed at the wide range of things to do and see in France. Its a great country!

akaANNIE

Get yourself a Michelin Green Guide to France. It has all kinds of places to visit, the routes to get to them, bus lines, subway lines, restaurants, etc. It's a life saver in France, or any other country. You can buy it at your local bookstore. Close to Normandy, there is a little town called Saint Jacut des la Mer, and it is one of my favorite places in France. Bon Voyage!

M.Tillou

Have look at to have some tips to the places you are going to see and of course the surroundings :
http://www.c-lafrance.com/

BobbyD

If you're from the United States -- avoid the locals!

Enter Your Message or Comment

User Name:
User Email:
Post a comment: