The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Paris and Beyond

Eiffel Tower under a blue sky, with boats on the Seine River and trees with green leaves reflecting in the water. Peaceful ambiance.

Paris is a dream destination for travelers worldwide—and it’s easy to see why. From its world-renowned cuisine to its rich history, legendary art, and breathtaking architecture, the City of Lights offers an unparalleled experience in every season. But beyond the romantic streets of Paris, France is filled with captivating regions waiting to be explored.

Within a short journey from the capital, you can sip bubbly in the vineyards of Champagne, wander through ancient ruins in the peaceful countryside of Cernay-la-Ville, or indulge in Lyon’s culinary excellence. Further south, the sun-soaked lavender fields of Provence offer a slice of rustic French charm.

To make the most of your journey through Paris and beyond, we’ve put together expert tips, must-visit locations, and top recommendations to enhance your experience.

Essential Travel Tips

Elegant room with white decor, beige chair, and pink flowers. View of Eiffel Tower and table set for two on the balcony, sunny day mood. — Image courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Georges V

Planning Ahead: France is a highly sought-after destination, especially during peak seasons. Secure hotel reservations, dining experiences, and guided tours well in advance to ensure a seamless trip.

Travel Smart: France operates on 230V Type E plugs, so bring an adapter if needed. Consider travel insurance for peace of mind—lost luggage, flight delays, or unexpected illnesses can disrupt even the best-laid plans.

Cultural Etiquette: A little French etiquette goes a long way. In Paris, a light air kiss on both cheeks is a common greeting in social settings. Dining is an experience to be savored, so meals are typically unhurried. A simple "Bonjour" (hello) before starting a conversation shows courtesy and is always appreciated.

Currency & Payments: The Euro (€) is the official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is handy for markets, taxis, and rural areas. Service is included in restaurant bills, but small additional tips are welcomed.

Language: French is the official language, but many locals, especially in Paris, speak English. Learning a few key phrases can enhance your interactions.

Getting There & Around

Artist painting a large outdoor scene by a river, with a lamp post and trees in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

Major Airports:

Paris & Cernay-la-Ville: Fly into Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY) airports.
Champagne: Arrive in Paris and take a high-speed TGV train or drive to the region.
Lyon: Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) serves as the main hub.
Provence: Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) and Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) offer convenient access.

Transportation: France boasts an extensive train network, including the Eurostar from London and high-speed TGV trains connecting major cities. Within cities, metro systems and trams make getting around easy. For more remote areas like Cernay-la-Ville, private transportation is recommended.

Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) bring pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant cultural events. Winter offers charming Christmas markets, while summer is perfect for exploring coastal regions—though note that many Parisians take vacation in August, leading to some business closures.

Ideal Trip Length: Plan for at least a week to soak in the best of Paris, with extra days to explore another region.

Must-Try French Experiences

Charcuterie board with sliced bread, apple, cheese, salami, almonds, and two oranges. Jar of jam and striped cloth on tiled surface.

Signature Dishes:

Paris: Steak frites, duck confit, and opera cake.
Cernay-la-Ville: Coq au vin, tarte tatin, and wild game terrine.
Champagne: Jambon de Reims, oysters with champagne, and pink biscuits.
Lyon: Quenelles de brochet, saucisson brioché, and tarte à la praline.
Provence: Bouillabaisse, ratatouille, and lavender honey with goat cheese.

What to Wear:

Comfortable shoes are a must for cobblestone streets.
Paris and Lyon favor classic, stylish layers in neutral tones.
Provence and Cernay-la-Ville are relaxed yet polished—think breezy fabrics.
Champagne leans toward elegant smart-casual attire.
Modest clothing is recommended for visiting churches and historical sites.

Where to Stay

This image depicts a hotel suite with a pastel color palette, complete with patterned pillows, textured wallpaper, a decorative full-length mirror, a desk, artwork hung on the wall and a light green, plush carpet. — Image courtesy of La Fantaisie

After a day of museum-hopping, boutique shopping, or sipping coffee in a Parisian café, retreat to one of these handpicked stays.

Paris

Four Seasons Hotel George V: An icon of Parisian luxury, offering Michelin-starred dining and breathtaking Eiffel Tower views.
Kimpton St Honoré Paris: A chic blend of Art Deco charm and modern comforts, complete with a rooftop bar boasting panoramic city views.
La Fantaisie: A playful yet sophisticated boutique retreat nestled in the charming South Pigalle district.
Brach Paris: A bold, eclectic hotel with a vibrant social scene, rooftop terrace, and wellness-focused amenities.

Cernay-la-Ville

Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay: A historic monastery-turned-hotel, surrounded by lush greenery and serene lakes.

Venture Beyond Paris

Church in Lyon, France with tall spire and colorful buildings on hill overlook a red bridge crossing a calm river beneath a clear blue sky. — Lyon

Champagne: Just an hour from Paris, this region is a paradise for sparkling wine lovers. Tour historic champagne houses, stroll through vineyard-covered hills, and sample local delicacies.

Lyon: France’s gastronomic capital is a must for foodies, boasting more restaurants per capita than New York City. Explore its charming Old Town and indulge in authentic bouchon cuisine.

Provence: Whether you’re drawn to the scent of lavender fields, the artistic allure of Aix-en-Provence, or the seaside glamour of Nice, Provence offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Ready to Plan Your Trip?

From Parisian boulevards to the sun-kissed landscapes of Provence, VBS Travel can curate the perfect French getaway tailored to your travel style. Let’s craft your dream itinerary—reach out today to start planning!

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