DESTINATIONS / EUROPE

France

My slightly contrarian take on France: skip the August crowds and spend the time in Menton in February instead. Most people make France about Paris — and Paris is worth a day — but the France I keep coming back to is the quiet south: lemon festivals on the Riviera, slow days in Bordeaux, the kind of trip where the long lunch is the plan.

A few honest notes: France isn’t cheap, but the Riviera off-season is where the value hides — and it’s an easy, lovely place to travel solo.

Start here

Where to begin in France

New to the Riviera? Start with Menton

Menton travel guide for first-timers The French Riviera in February Fête du Citron: a complete guide

Planning your Menton trip

The perfect 5-day Menton itinerary Where to stay in Menton (with map) Best tours: walking, food & day trips

Solo city escapes

Three days in Bordeaux without a car One day in Paris: solo in 24 hours

Plan your trip

The practical stuff

When to go

Spring and fall are the easy win — mild and uncrowded. But my France secret is the Riviera in winter: Menton in February is sunny, quiet, half the price, and the Fête du Citron is on.

What it costs

France runs pricier than most of Europe — budget the regions around €85–100 a day, Paris closer to €120–230. The south outside summer is where the value hides.

Getting around

The TGV makes France a dream by train — Paris to the Riviera in a few hours. Book SNCF a month ahead (or grab Ouigo budget fares) and you rarely need a car.

Quick facts

CurrencyEuro (€)
LanguageFrench
Best timeApr–Jun, Sep–Oct
Daily budget€85–230
Getting aroundTGV / SNCF
Emergency112
Bright sunny day in Menton with colorful buildings and palm trees.
The image displays the Place de la Bourse in Bordeaux, France, featuring its classical architecture with intricate facades. In the center stands a prominent building with a dome and a statue on top. The square is mirrored perfectly on the water surface in front, creating a symmetrical reflection under a cloudy sky. This scene is interesting for its blend of historical architecture and modern reflective installation, showcasing an iconic city landmark known for its beauty and cultural significance.
The Place de la Bourse, with its classical architecture and intricate facades, stands as a testament to the city’s rich history. The square’s perfect reflection on the water’s surface creates a mesmerizing mirror effect.
Iconic Front of Shakespeare & Co in the Latin Quarter Paris
One of my favorite shops in Paris is Shakespeare and Co.

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