Popular Destinations: Travelling to France

You will never get bored on a holiday in France, there is simply too much to explore! With mediaeval cities, picturesque villages and Mediterranean beaches all nestled in this one beautiful country, you are guaranteed a good time wherever you roam. France offers its visitors the best of every kind of world from the glamour of city life to the timeless beauty of fairy-tale castles and vine-covered rolling hills. This is why it is the most visited tourist destination in the world, welcoming over 80 million visitors each year!

1. Official name: French Republic / République Française
   

2. Citizens of France call it “L’Hexagone,” or “the hexagon” due to its six-point geometrical shape

3. Paris is the third-most visited city in the world after Bangkok and London

4. The Louvre in Paris is the most visited museum in the world

5. France is the largest country in the EU with a total land area of 551,695 km2

6. The French have won the most Nobel Prizes for Literature : On average, two new cookbooks are published in France every day

 

The national currency of France is the Euro (EUR). The most common languages in France are French, English and Spanish. While 88% of the population speaks French as their official language, English is common in most tourist attractions and almost all hotels, restaurants and shops have English speakers so that tourists do not struggle with communication.

The best time to visit France is between June and August, which are their summer months. During this season, temperatures range between 14°C and 28℃, and it is pleasantly sunny and warm. This season is ideal for any kind of travelling whether it is visiting natural landscapes and historic landmarks or going to museums and festivals.

You would be doing yourself a major disservice if you land in Paris and just stay there! Spend some time fraternising with the Iron Lady and sipping café noirs in curbside bistros, but make sure to move on and see more of these French gems:

Normandy

With its viking history and charm, Normandy stands distinct from all other regions in France. There is something for everyone including historic castles and gothic cathedrals, as well as quaint fishing towns where some of France’s finest seafood can be enjoyed.

Champagne

A stone-throw away from Paris but another another world altogether! This lush region lends itself to the name of that delicious sparkling wine you enjoy at every celebration. Expect to sample a glass (or two) of champagne as you learn more about the winemaking processes that go into producing this famous French export. Bubbles aside, you can also enjoy the simple pleasures of wandering through ancient, green villages that will take you back to mediaeval times.

Alsace

This region between France and Germany has developed its own distinct culture that is neither French nor German. With its own dialect and cuisine, it is a beautiful getaway from the city, and a popular choice amongst nature lovers. In the summer, a number of festivals and food markets take place along the wine route, giving you endless options of “Alsatian” adventure.

Provence

This region is famous for its expansive fields of lavender that bloom in summer. The best of this scented harvest can be experienced in popular scenic spots like Valensole Plateau, Sault Plateau and Luberon Valley. The best of these spots is the field that surrounds the Notre-Dame de Sènanque Abbey, near the village of Gordes. Here you will get the most breathtaking sight of a sea of purple every June and July.

The Loire Valley

Often referred to as the garden of France, these 300 elaborate chateaux date as far back as the 9th century. Most of these exquisite French castles have been listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They are all meticulously preserved and each have unique stories of French royalty and nobility. You can mix this up with a visit to one of the many vineyards in the valley and enjoy a quiet tour of some winemaker’s private cellar and sample their products.

Dordogne & Lot

For more majestic experiences of the ancient world, follow the Dordogne River through ancient mountains and valleys where more prehistoric remains have been found than any other region in France. From fortified castles perched on high cliffs to green and fertile lands in Dordogne Valley, right to the famous Lascaux caves covered with incredible prehistoric painting, the Dordogne and Lot regions will keep families active for days with hiking, climbing, cycling, canoeing, and camping trips.

The French Riviera

This summer retreat instantly invokes a sense of glamour, luxury and sophistication! The summer months are the best time to enjoy the sandy beaches, coastal walking trails, vibrant markets and picturesque towns of the Côte d’Azur. And while you strut about in Monaco, San Tropez, Nice or Cannes and dip your toes in the Mediterranean, your eyes will not be tricking you if you spot one or two international celebrities and millionaires.

Enjoy Islamic Culture

France is home to more than 6 million Muslims and as a result, boasts many beautiful mosques, Muslim museums and cuisine. As the epicentre of the Muslim community in France, Paris holds one of the most beautiful Islamic structures in all of Europe; the Grand Mosque of Paris, which welcomes visitors and offers free tour guides. Paris’s Arab World Institute Museum is another excellent place to see Islamic art and artefacts.

 

France is part of the Schengen Area and UAE citizens do not need a Schengen visa to travel there for a stay of 90 days or less. However, as of the 1st of January 2023, UAE citizens will have to apply for an dummy ETIAS visa  before travelling to a Schengen country. This is an electronic system that Schengen countries will be using to keep track of their visitors who do not need a visa to enter the Schengen Zone.

Travel medical insurance is one of the main requirements for a visa to France. If you do not need a visa to get into France i.e. because you are a UAE citizen, it is still highly recommended by France legislation that you get travel insurance. It’s good to have travel insurance even if it is not mandatory because you don’t know what could go wrong. Travel Insurance for a Schengen visa must be compliant by covering at least €30,000 for emergency medical costs and repatriation, and be valid in the entire Schengen Area.

If you want travel insurance with a reputable provider, look no further than Allianz Travel! We have been providing first-class products and services to clients for well over 30 years. Allianz Travel is the world’s largest travel insurance and assistance provider with headquarters in Paris and regional offices in over 28 countries. We have been providing comprehensive travel insurance products and services to tourists all over the world, including those from the Middle East.

Let us know how we can assist you with your travel insurance for your next holiday to France! Get in touch with us on dummy our website  today and speak to one of our friendly and highly experienced consultants.