Everything about France for tourists. Self-drive route around France by car
Tourist route for independent travel in France for 14 days.
Independent travel route in France
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France is a country that offers its visitors an amazing variety of options for how to spend your time. France is loved by many, and it is rightfully one of the most popular countries among tourists. But most people come to Paris and miss out on so many other wonderful places. The purpose of this route around France for 2 weeks is to find out what to see in France besides Paris (but Paris too) and to get to know this beautiful country better.
In my opinion, 2 weeks is enough to see all the best sides of France without getting overtired. You can always remake this tourist route for yourself, depending on how much time you plan to spend in the country. 5 days or a week - remove some points from the route; more than 2 weeks - stay longer in the area you like most.
Our travel route around France will start from Paris. Because the cheapest air tickets are to Paris.
Rent a Car
This route is suitable for traveling independently around France by car. Just rent a car upon arrival in Paris. The cost of renting a car is about 30 euros/day. If you decide to follow the proposed route, the entire journey will take about 2000 km. Therefore, you will need a reliable car that will be comfortable for the driver and passengers, and will have room for luggage.
Self-drive route around France by car
Route around France on the map
Day 1 – 4 - Paris Itinerary
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Day 1 of our Paris itinerary – arrival. Most likely, you will arrive in the morning, and you will have a good half of the day and evening to start exploring the sights.
City of Lights, Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world. And for good reason. Throughout the city you will find beautiful examples of architecture, art and delicious French cuisine. All the main attractions of Paris can be easily explored in 2–4 days, the main thing is to plan the route correctly.
Where to go and what to see in Paris in 3-4 days
Eiffel Tower– an icon of France and a must-see place when in Paris. It was once the tallest tower in the world. You can take the elevator to the very top, where you have a breathtaking view of the city.
Triumphal Arch - stroll along the famous Champs Elysees to enjoy the imposing view of the approaching arch. The Arc de Triomphe was built to honor those who fought and died for France. You will be able to find the names of the generals and the victories they won carved into the stone of the arch. This is another place in Paris that is worth seeing on its own. You can climb the steps to the very top and look around the city from above, and then go down along the avenues running out from under the arch.
Notre Dame– one of the best examples of Gothic French architecture in the world. Notre Dame or Notre Dame Cathedral is famous for its stained glass windows and the gargoyles that guard the cathedral. The interior of the cathedral is breathtaking. You can also climb up to get a closer look at the gargoyles and take in the cathedral roof and spiers that tower over the city.
Louvre– the next point on our route in Paris and the home of the notorious Mona Lisa. The Louvre building is spread over 3 wings, and inside there are 8 different departments and about 35,000 works of art. One visit will not be enough to see all the exhibits on display, so I strongly advise you to plan in advance what you want to see in the museum.
Montmartre and Sacre Coeur Cathedral. While walking around Paris, be sure to stop by Mormartre. For hundreds of years, Place Montmartre has attracted artists from all over the world. Today it is still a bohemian place with its own atmosphere, culture and fun nightlife. The most famous building in Montmartre is the Sacre Coeur Cathedral. From here you also have a beautiful view of Paris. And the cathedral itself is worth visiting.
Cruise on the Seine- this is what you must do in Paris. The fact is that the most beautiful architectural sights of Paris were built along the Seine. It is best to take a cruise at night, when the city lights are mysteriously reflected in the water surface. Climb aboard the Bateaux Mouches for an hour of delight.
Palace of Versailles– make sure your Paris itinerary includes this palace. The Palace of Versailles was once the home of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. The palace is stunning inside and out. The spacious rooms are decorated with artwork and antique furniture, and outside are beautiful manicured gardens. Plan to spend at least half a day, preferably all day, on your trip to Versailles.
Take a stroll through the gardens. Paris has many stunning gardens that serve as a great place to take a break from the bustle of the city. From the Louvre you can clear your head in the Tuileries Garden (Jardin des Tuileries) through which you will exit to the Place de la Concorde. I also highly recommend admiring the flowers in the Luxembourg Garden (Jardin du Luxembourg). These are the two best parks in Paris.
Where is the best place to stay in Paris?
Hotel Marignan
Located in the Latin Quarter, next to the Luxembourg Gardens and a few steps from the metro. Free Wi-Fi, breakfast and laundry included.
Hotel Le Relais des Halles
The hotel is located on a pedestrian street, a few steps from the center of Paris with all its attractions. The rooms are air conditioned, have private bathrooms, and breakfast is included.
Ritz Paris
An icon of Paris, this hotel is located in the heart of the city. Luxurious rooms, restaurants, fitness center, spa and beautiful gardens on site.
Day 5 – 6 Normandy route
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How to get there: Drive from Paris to Caen, this route to Normandy by car will take approximately 2.5 hours. Leave early to give yourself more time to explore Normandy.
Where to stay: Like Paris, the city of Rouen is located on the Seine River and has a rich medieval history behind it. In just a few hours you can explore the Gothic cathedral, which the artist Monte loved very much, wander through the medieval quarter and visit the place where Joan of Arc died.
Normandy is France's humble gem. Here you will find a dramatic coastal landscape, green fertile hills and a rich history. Delve into the history of the Middle Ages, admire local orchids, try seafood and cheese, and explore charming coastal towns.
What to see in Normandy
Arromanches – On June 6, 1944 (D-Day), during World War II, Allied forces stormed the beaches of Normandy. You can visit these beaches. On the beach of Arromanches-les-Bains you will see the remains of the Mulberry harbor, which was built by the military. After a walk on the beach, head to the cliff tops for 360 Cinema. This is a museum with screens located in a circle, on which you can see the history of the landing and get at least a little touch on the events of the past. Details can be found on the website.
American Cemetery in Colville. The cemetery occupies 700,000 square meters. m. This is the largest American cemetery in Normandy. If you know English, you can take a tour. They will tell you in detail the history of the D-Day holiday. You can walk among 9,387 marble tombs, some of which belong to famous people. For example, three Medal of Honor recipients, three generals (including General Theodore Roosevelt Jr.), two Niland brothers (their story inspired the movie Saving Private Ryan).
Bayeux Tapestry – in France it is known as La Tapisserie de la Reine Mathilde. This is a 70-meter tapestry detailing the Norman invasion of 1066. And the city of Bayeux itself deserves attention.
Camembert – The most famous cheese in France comes from the village of Camembert, which is located in the center of Normandy. You can take a tour to see the cheese making process. It tastes similar to brie.
Where to stay in Normandy
B& B Hotel Caen Memorial
Affordable, family-run bed and breakfast. Private bathroom and free Wi-Fi. A few kilometers from the city center.
Ibis Styles Caen Center Gare
Ibis chain hotel. It is located on the River Orne. Bar, Wi-Fi, air conditioning and other amenities are included.
Hotel Restaurant Spa Ivan Vautier
Luxurious rooms, spa, restaurant with local chef Ivan Vauthier. Good expensive hotel.
Day 7 – 8 – Loire Valley Route
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How to get there: the journey from Caen to the city of Tour takes approximately 2.5 hours by car. Or 4.5 hours if you decide to stop by Mont Saint-Michel. Leave early to have more time to explore the cities.
Mont Saint Michel. Photos of Mont Saint-Michel have inspired more than one tourist to travel. This is a small island connected to land by a causeway. The main attraction of the island is the monastery. Arrive early to stroll through the narrow streets to the monastery without the crowds of tourists.
The Loire Valley is one of the most beautiful regions of France. It is famous for the largest number of castles in France. Come explore the castles, wander through the sprawling gardens, smell the orchids, sample local produce and wine, and simply enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
What to do and see in the Loire Valley
Chambord Castle- the largest and most famous castle in the Loire Valley. Chateau Chambord was built by King Francis I. It was originally intended as a hunting lodge, but later it grew significantly. Chambord is one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in the world. The castle has 440 rooms, all of which are open to the public.
Castle and gardens of Ainy-le-Vieil. The castle of Ainy-le-Vieil differs from all others with its luxurious gardens, divided into a number of thematic sections. The castle has been owned by the same family since 1467, which is very rare in France. As you explore the interiors, you may find some personal memories left behind by family members.
Ride your bike along the Loire River. The Loire Valley is almost flat, making it a great place for cycling. In most local towns and villages you will find bike rental places. Saddle up the bike and go get acquainted with the numerous castles of the area.
Bourges Cathedral- one of the most remarkable cathedrals in France. Bourges was built in the 12th century and is located in the city of the same name (Bourges). Bourges is similar to Notre Dame. There are beautiful stained glass windows with biblical stories.
Drive through the vineyards. The Loire Valley is one of the best wine regions in France. You can explore the vineyards on your own by car or rent a bicycle. Maps of the vineyards can be found at any tourist office, allowing you to easily create your own route.
Where to stay in the Loire Valley
Hotel Italia
Nice family run place near the city center. Free Wi-Fi and breakfast. Comfortable, simple rooms with private bathrooms.
Best Western Plus l’ Artist Hotel
Located almost in the very center. This hotel has comfortable rooms, tomorrow and internet. There is a fitness center.
Clarion Hotel Chateau Belmont Tours
Own area measuring 25,000 sq. m. in the very center of Tours. Luxurious rooms, swimming pool, restaurant and bar.
Day 9 – 10 - Lyon route
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How to get there: The journey from Tours to Lyon takes 4.5 hours. Leave early, along the way you will come across many beautiful places where you will want to stop.
If the main reason you're traveling to France is food and culture, then Lyon is a great choice of destination to experience both. France's third largest city, Lyon offers museums, daily cultural events and plenty of delicious food.
What to see in Lyon in 1 – 2 – 3 days
ExploreVieux – Lyon's old town is a great place to start exploring Lyon. Stroll along the narrow cobbled streets past craft shops and sidewalk cafes. Walk along traboules - passages between streets that were used in the Middle Ages. Many of them have been restored.
Have lunch at a bouchon. These small restaurants serve traditional Lyon cuisine, perfect for anyone looking to try something a little different. Dishes include ingredients such as bone marrow, pork offal and other offal.
Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvières – an impressive white church overlooking the old town of Lyon. From here you have a beautiful view of the city. You can climb the steep steps, or you can take the funicular. The basilica is popularly called the “inverted elephant” because of its unusual shape. It's very beautiful inside.
Roman amphitheater - next to Notre Dame you will find the best preserved Roman amphitheater outside of Rome. It once accommodated 10,000 people. Now there are no performances in the theater, you can just walk through its remains.
Museum of Fine Arts (Museum of Fine Arts) – this museum contains the largest collection of works of fine art, ranging from ancient Egyptian to modern paintings. This is a real paradise for art lovers.
Rent a bike. Lyon is located on a flat area, and 2 rivers flow through the city. This makes Lyon a great place to pedal and get to know the city properly. Throughout the city you will find Velib rental stations, where you can take a bike and leave it in another part of the city at the same branded rental station.
Where is the best place to stay in Lyon?
Hotel Saint Vincent
Located close to all the attractions of Lyon. The rooms are clean and simple, with free Wi-Fi and private bathrooms. There are many good bars and restaurants in the neighborhood.
Hotel ParkSaone
Located by the river near the city center. There is a hotel restaurant and bar with a beautiful view from the terrace.
Villa Maia
Located on Fourviere Hill with panoramic views of the city. There is an indoor heated pool and sauna, a private garden and luxurious rooms.
Day 11 – 12 – Provence route with and without a car
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How to get there: the journey from Lyon to Provence takes 3.5 hours. Along the way you will come across many beautiful places where you will want to stop, leave early.
Suggested stopping places: On the way to Provence I advise you to make 2 stops. One to Pont du Gard to walk along the ancient Roman aqueduct. And the second one is in Avignon, to look at the Palais des Papes, walk through Pont Saint-Benezet, wander along the cobbled sidewalks past the boutiques and have a snack in a cafe.
Provence is a region for gourmets. Markets, cafes, food stalls, lavender fields, small beautiful cities - all this has been attracting artists from all over the world for many years, whose masterpieces can be found in the best galleries. Provence is especially beautiful in spring and summer.
What to see and do in Provence
Aix-en-Provence– I advise you to stay in this city. It is very beautiful and cozy. Have dinner at one of the local restaurants. Wander the cobbled streets to understand why artists like Cezanne fell in love with this city. Stroll through the chic boutiques dotted around the city.
Amphitheater in Arles. During the summer months, the ancient Roman amphitheater in Arles comes alive with performances and concerts. Walk through it, imagining yourself in Roman days, watching sports competitions, animal hunts, executions of prisoners and gladiator fights. People used to have such entertainment.
Old port of Marseille. Here locals relax, drink, walk and enjoy life. It's nice to spend time here, just watching the life of the harbor. You can stop by and have lunch at one of the local restaurants.
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence– a traditional Provençal village. Quite sleepy these days, but in Roman times it was a thriving Roman settlement, the ruins of which can be seen today. Van Gogh lived here and was treated for his psychological problems here.
Moustier Saint-Marie– a beautiful medieval city hidden in the gorges of Veron. The path to it takes place along a long winding road up the gorge, along stunning landscapes. The town itself is charming, it seems as if time stood still there several hundred years ago.
Lavender fields of Digne les Bains. One after another, one after another, you will see many lavender fields for which Provence is so famous. At roadside stalls you can buy products with the addition of lavender: soap, sprays, honey and other edible products. Lavender blooms from June to August. In August, local residents organize a festival for several days during the harvest.
Where is the best place to stay in Provence?
Hotel Le Mozart
Cozy rooms with air conditioning, Wi-Fi and private bathrooms. You can have breakfast on the terrace, there is your own parking. From here you can easily reach the city center.
Hotel du Globe
Located in the city center. The terrace offers a panoramic view of the city; it is very pleasant to have breakfast here. The rooms are comfortable, Wi-Fi is available everywhere.
Villa Gallici Hotel & Spa
Luxurious villa with appropriate service. Outdoor pool in a beautiful garden. Beautiful rooms, there is a bar and restaurant.
Day 13 -14 – French Riviera Itinerary
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How to get there: the journey from Aix-en-Provence to Nice will take about 5 hours if you drive along the coast, or 3 hours if you take the shorter road in the middle of the mainland. Taking the long route, you'll take in St. Tropez, Cannes and Antibes along the way.
Nice is the heart of the French Riviera. There is a lot of sun and an atmosphere of wealth. At the same time, Nice has cobblestone alleys and wonderful beaches. There is something for everyone.
Things to do and see in the French Riviera
Soak up the sun on local beaches. In Nice you will not find the white sandy beaches that every second tourist dreams of. The beaches here are only pebbly, but the waters of the Mediterranean Sea will still lure you to a sun lounger. And they will do the right thing!
Take a walk By English embankment. A must when the sun is shining. 8 km along the beaches under the palm trees, watching people enjoy life in this beautiful place. A very joyful sight.
Get to know the old town. After a few hours in the sun, it's time to turn into the streets of the old town and get lost in the maze of tiny cafes, colorful groceries and artisan shops. At the local market you can observe the life of local residents.
Monaco. The best time to visit Monaco is just before sunset. You can get from Nice by train or bus in 20 - 30 minutes to admire the Prince Albert Palace (Le Palais des Princes de Monaco) and multi-million dollar yachts in the rays of the setting sun. You can spend the night at the Monte Carlo casino or in one of the local cafes. Here you will see some of the most expensive cars in the world and their owners.
Modern Art Museum. End your trip with a splash of color by visiting a contemporary art gallery. There is a large collection of paintings that can be viewed for free and frequently changing imported collections (you have to pay to look at them). The building itself is worthy of special attention, and from its roof there is a stunning view.
Where to stay in Nice
Hotel des Dames
A simple and comfortable hotel with a good location. Free Wi-Fi, breakfast and cozy patio included.
Ibis Styles Nice Center Gare
A minute's walk from the beach you will find a good Ibis hotel with all the amenities such as internet, air conditioning, bathroom and food.
Hotel Negresco
But for fans of a luxury holiday, I recommend the Negresco Hotel. Close location to the beach, huge beds, own fitness center.
Helpful advice
Save on housing by renting an apartment from a local with Airbnb. Get 2100 rub. as a gift for your first booking.
In Vladivostok we met French tourists who, in 50 days, traveled by bus from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean with the main goal of seeing as many Russian cities as possible, getting to know the culture and traditions of their inhabitants.
Vladivostok greeted tourists with foggy and cool weather. However, for many of them this is a familiar climate. They came from Brest, a small French town, which is also located on the ocean, only the Atlantic, reports.
“I live on the seashore. But here the sea smells stronger of iodine. Here in France it doesn’t smell like that,” said tourist Jacques Poisson.
27 Frenchmen left their business at home and went on the “Journey of the Century” - a bus tour from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean. And most of the route is in Russia.
“Since childhood, my husband dreamed of getting to the Pacific Ocean. We thought for a long time how to do it. He wanted to go by car with friends, but it didn’t work out. And now, the dream has come true. We are very happy,” said tourist Manik Shotae.
16 thousand 300 kilometers of road - for Jean-Pierre Laban this is the longest journey in his entire 35-year driving career. This is the second time he has decided to undertake such a tour. In 2014, he also took a group from Brest, France to Russia. He says that in two years the roads have become much better.
“After this trip, I realized that 50 days behind the wheel is the maximum for me. Well, in general, I’m very glad that everything ended well,” said bus driver Jean-Pierre Laban.
This is a unique opportunity for Europeans to see not only Moscow and St. Petersburg. Tourists visited more than 26 Russian cities. In Novosibirsk, the French were told how to brew tea in a samovar, had a picnic on the shore of Lake Baikal and were treated to local hot-smoked omul. In Vladivostok, tourists were greeted with a sailors' dance and a loaf of bread.
“I tried a lot of Russian cuisine and even gained weight. I liked your soups and how you prepare meat,” noted tourist Zhonik Shoseru.
Michel Salin has been to Russia 98 times. But, I only got to Ulan-Ude, and then by train. Connecting two oceans and seeing all of Russia is his idea.
“You could make such a trip by plane, but you can’t see anything from the plane, by train, but you won’t see much either, the best option is by bus to see your wonderful country,” said Michel Salen.
The Ministry of Culture declared this year the year of cross-tourism between Russia and France. The “Journey of the Century” route is also scheduled for 2017. The French are already making reservations. It is planned that the bus will not leave Russia empty, but with a group of our tourists.
Vladivostok is the final point on the “Journey of the Century” route. Here tourists will be introduced to the eastern culture of Russia. They will not go home by bus, but by plane.
Olga Skripnikova, Sergey Drobyshev. Far Eastern Bureau of TV Center. Vladivostok.
The most attractive country for tourists around the world is France. In 2012, it received 83 million guests, and if we consider that in 2011 the number of tourists was 81.4 million, then there is a clear upward trend in this figure.
This attractiveness can be explained by a large number of historical and architectural monuments, a wide variety of museums and exhibitions, a mild climate, beautiful natural landscapes, and excellent tourism infrastructure designed for clients of different financial capabilities. The capital of France, Paris, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and most visited cities in the world. Therefore it is not surprising that tours to France are organized all year round.
Nature
The country is located in a temperate climate zone, however, due to the fact that the coast is washed by the warm Gulf Stream, the climate is very mild, with a small difference between winter and summer temperatures. For example, in Nice the average winter temperature is 8 degrees, and the summer temperature is 23 degrees. The eastern part of the country is characterized by mountainous terrain, while the western part is characterized by flat terrain.
The country has many lakes and rivers, the clear water of which reflects beautiful forests. However, there are few of them left, since almost all the land suitable for cultivation is used in agriculture. The vegetation along the Mediterranean coast is very diverse.
Attractions
Almost every ancient city in this country can be called a museum, since France has many architectural monuments, probably more than in any other country. As for the museums themselves, history lovers in France are simply spoiled for choice, as here they can see the sites of ancient people, Roman and Gallic settlements, the arenas of ancient amphitheatres, castles whose history dates back to the times of the Roman Empire, and the palaces of the French kings.
Ski resorts
Thanks to the presence of mountains on its territory, France is a popular holiday destination for alpine skiing fans. There are about 400 ski resorts in the French Alps, which are aimed at athletes of different levels of training and, importantly, people with different income levels. Hotels at the resorts are designed for both family holidays and group holidays.
Entertainment
If the tourist is not a skier and is not particularly interested in ancient artifacts and ruins of fortresses, then he can visit the Futuroscope film park near the city of Poitiers, which houses the largest collection in the world telling about the history of cinema, as well as a magnificent amusement park. Entertainment is distributed according to age categories, which makes this place especially attractive for both adults and children.
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32 kilometers from Paris is the town of Marc-la-Vallée, where EuroDisneyland is located, which also offers entertainment for tourists of different ages and financial status. Just wandering through the beautiful streets of Paris, visiting the Eiffel Tower and the Champs Elysees is also a great pleasure.
Travel around the country
Those who travel around Europe by personal car need to know that you have to pay to travel on French roads. When entering the next section of the highway, there will be a sign indicating the amount of toll. Experienced travelers know that it will be very helpful for an independent trip around the country. map of France in Russian language.
In general, the transport system of this country is considered one of the best in the world. France is a world leader in the implementation of high-speed rail transport. More than 50 cities in the state are connected by high-speed railways.
Buses are an auxiliary mode of transport. There are no long routes. For those wishing to travel around the country by car, there are car rental companies in the country. Highway service stations are located every 25 miles. However, it is difficult to find a parking space in the capital, and most of the parking lots are paid.
Summer is not only a time of lush greenery and flowers, but also, naturally, a time of resorts and vacations. When choosing a country in which a vacation will bring unforgettable impressions, more than half of the girls surveyed will undoubtedly choose France.
Oh, Paris, the city of live music, fountains, lights and elegant young ladies... Having made a choice in favor of this amazing country, a girl will definitely not go wrong. The days spent in this magical place with all its attractions are filled with a living fairy tale of the eternally sleepless Parisian streets. The banks of the Seine River, the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower - all these unearthly places flash before your eyes when the time comes to say goodbye to your beloved country of romance and feelings. Gradually we have to come down to earth and solve pressing questions: what should we bring home to our loved ones from such a mind-blowing trip? other tourists to maintain at least a piece of the “Parisian” mood?
This article will present the best, and most importantly, proven options for gifts and souvenirs from wonderful France.
Famous French patisseries
When it comes to France, most associations are associated with traditional French croissants, which are still warm and served in cozy restaurants early in the morning. Of course, it would be possible to bring this creation of confectionery art, but during the many-hour journey the delicate dough may become stale... But you can’t leave the country without its traditional sweets?
One of the best gift options for family and friends can be a bar of high-quality French chocolate. How is it different from any other chocolate product? It's simple: it contains the most delicate milk and a large amount of spices, which the French know how to use so well. Indeed, ordinary chocolate is lost against the background of one that literally melts in your mouth, leaving behind a delicate aftertaste of cinnamon...
Another win-win sweet that is usually brought from France is the widely known Macaron - here, in its historical homeland, this sweet is cheaper and made of better quality than in other places.
Alcohol products
Since we are talking about edibles, how can we miss such an important topic as the famous French medium-alcohol drinks, which will drive you crazy with their taste even without an extra few degrees.
Of course, we are talking about luxury French wines and an assortment of elegant and simple gifts in the form of a bottle of good wine, which will delight both friends and family, and will be an excellent example of what is brought from France. The most amazing thing is that in this country, especially in its heart, in Paris, good alcohol can be bought almost everywhere. And the point here is not at all in the statistics of alcohol intoxication among French residents: it’s just that Paris is always crowded with tourists from other countries who can’t wait to take home a couple of bottles of the popular Bordeaux, and it just so happens that the French are a people who love to live beautifully and elegantly , and therefore there are simply no cheap counterfeits of alcohol here.
Thus, French wines or champagne will be an excellent souvenir option for loved ones. Moreover, the list of quality alcoholic beverages does not stop at wine - cognac is also one of the prides of French producers, but its high quality corresponds to an equally high price, which is why cognac is not often chosen as a gift.
French cheeses
Continuing the theme of alcoholic drinks, we cannot help but mention the ideal ensemble, which has long become a kind of classic. We are talking about wine and cheese - a pair that cannot be separated.
When thinking about what to bring from France as a gift, you can stop at a wheel of good-quality cheese. This delicacy will be appreciated anywhere, because French cheese is imbued with the atmosphere of this country, like any other national delicacy.
And don’t forget that France became the birthplace of world-famous blue cheeses. Naturally, not everyone will like such a product, but if a gourmet friend is waiting at home, then why not please him with the original blue cheese, which is significantly different from what can be purchased in any supermarket?
Herbs and spices
Another hallmark of France can be considered a giant market called Richard Lenoir. Why has this market become something of a tourist attraction? It’s very simple - this place is entirely specialized in trading a wide variety of spices. Just think: there are thousands of types of spices here - from traditional coriander and saffron to the collection of Provençal herbs.
A box filled with a whole bouquet of a wide variety of spices is something that can be brought from France as a gift to people who often prepare gourmet dishes. Such a souvenir will be appreciated, and therefore spices will be an ideal option straight from the French market.
Designer clothing
This gift option is more suitable for girls, because who, if not a woman, knows a lot about stylish clothes? So, in France there will be no problems with this souvenir, since Paris, along with Milan, is one of the current fashion capitals in the world. There is a huge number of designer boutiques where you can buy exclusive items.
Of course, the prices for ready-made luxury will correspond to its quality, but if you want to give a worthy gift from the heart, then you can’t skimp on it! Options for souvenirs from Parisian designers can be high-quality gloves, sunglasses, elegant wide-brimmed hats or berets in the rhythm of French fashion, and in no case should one ignore the personification of French style - chiffon airy scarves.
Receiving such a gift, any girl will be able to feel like that same French woman who comes into the bakery every morning for a cup of strong coffee with spices and a fragrant croissant to go with it. So designer clothes are one of the best answers to the question of what to bring from France as a souvenir.
Cosmetical tools
The global authority that many French cosmetics companies have is undeniable, so why not buy a couple of products for someone as souvenirs? But first, it’s worth figuring out: what cosmetics to bring from France? To answer this question, you need to know the preferences of the person to whom you plan to give the gift: perhaps it will be a long-lasting classic lipstick, branded mascara or a set of face care creams. A wonderful option could be a set of aromatic oils for body skin care.
Perfume
Not far from cosmetics, it’s worth paying close attention to the dizzying French perfume. One thing is for sure - it is impossible to find a better perfume in the world! This is probably why French perfumes are what are most often brought from France.
The atmosphere in which French perfumers come up with and combine their unique scents leads to the fact that any bottle coming out of expensive and branded stores or simple and medium-priced stores breathes its own life. France is also a country of scents, each of which tells its own story. So it’s not for nothing that French perfume has become a household name, denoting the degree of luxury of a perfume.
Coffee
Another amazing gift you can think of is real French coffee. You won't be able to try this drink anywhere else! The tart taste and aroma, the feeling of cheerfulness that it gives - all this together makes you dizzy at the first sip. Ricore is considered one of the best brands - this is a drink in which coffee and chicory are mixed in special proportions - perhaps that is why it has such a unique taste. If it is preferable to buy the best French sweets as a gift for girls and women, then coffee is the best gift for serious men who will be able to appreciate it.
France - the country of forgotten vintage
After staying in this amazing country, many people ask the question: what is the first thing they bring from France as souvenirs? The answer to this question can be found in the windows of many small shops that sell the most outlandish and rare things. Once you enter such a shop, it will be impossible to leave empty-handed.
These tiny shops with antique trinkets embody the spirit of France, and therefore will be a wonderful gift when traveling home. Souvenirs can be beautiful vintage postcards with dried lavender flowers exuding an incredible aroma, they can be vinyl records from the 30s or 40s, but what about worn photographs depicting the most beautiful views of old Paris? An equally original gift can be an aged carved music box, from which motifs of national French music flow.
Classic souvenirs
If none of the above options appealed to your heart, then no one canceled the classic small souvenirs that can be found in any country.
Then you don’t have to think about what souvenirs to bring from France: keychains with the Eiffel Tower or the Arc de Triomphe, magnets with views of the Champs Elysees or the Louvre, gift lighters again in the shape of the Eiffel Tower, small gift figurines, kitchen sets, jars for storing spices with views of Paris at night... There are so many of them! But the main thing is that anyone will be happy with such gifts, regardless of a person’s taste, and plus, these souvenirs will never lose their popularity!
If you still have questions on the topic “Souvenirs from France: what to bring and how to please everyone,” then you can always ask the person himself, who will tell you exactly about his tastes and preferences. And yet, no matter how wonderful a souvenir may be in itself, nothing compares to a live stay in this land of wish fulfillment and night romance. So the best option for getting vivid impressions would not be a desired gift, but your own presence in this amazing country.
France is the dream of many tourists. Graceful streets, sophisticated French women, brilliant palaces... But what should you bring from France? Rarely does a tourist leave here without a handful of Eiffel Tower keychains. However, this country also has more interesting souvenirs.
The French are great gourmets. Exquisite cuisine will so captivate travelers from Russia and beyond that the choice often falls on edible gifts. Perhaps we’ll start our review with them.
1. Foie gras as a gift
One of the culinary symbols of France is foie gras. This dish is considered a delicacy, and its popularity among tourists is as high as the famous frog legs and French croissants.
The production of foie gras has long been on stream; you can often find this dish in souvenir packaging in specialized shops and even ordinary supermarkets. As a rule, it is placed in a tightly closed glass or regular tin jar. The main thing is to check the expiration date. Of course, this option bears little resemblance to a gourmet dish from a restaurant with a Michelin star, but it is suitable for an original souvenir.
What is foie gras? It is essentially a pate made from goose liver. By the way, the poor bird suffers incredibly for the sake of this delicacy. She is force-fed by inserting a tube down her throat through which corn constantly flows. As a result, the bird’s liver enlarges 10 times, and fat is formed there, which gives the dish its signature unique taste. Foie gras is translated from French as “fat liver”.
Animal activists regularly advocate for a ban on this delicacy. Some countries have stopped producing it (Germany, Poland, Italy). But the French cannot yet deny themselves such pleasure.
2. French alcohol
An alcoholic drink from France will be a universal gift. French wines, cognac and, of course, champagne are highly valued all over the world.
An elegant bottle of French wine is a gift that, above all, speaks of the good taste of the giver. The French love to live beautifully and are well versed in wine, so there is simply no cheap substitute here. There are good and very good wines.
- Premier or Grant cru is the most elite wine, aged for more than 30 years, and the price is more than 700 euros.
- AOC - the best wines of certain provinces, made from a limited list of grape varieties, excise tax green.
- VDSQ is a good quality wine, in the production of which a much larger number of grape varieties can be used.
- VDP is wine from certain regions, the production of which is strictly controlled. But this is a more democratic option - a blue excise tax.
- VDT – good table wine at a reasonable price, burgundy color.
Another pattern that applies to both wine and cognac, and champagne: the less remarkable the label, the better the taste. By the way, in France only drinks produced in the Champagne region are called champagne; everything else is local sparkling wines.
For men, it is preferable to bring cognac. Moreover, only a drink produced in the vicinity of the city of the same name in the French province is worthy of the name. Charente. It is made from certain grape varieties and is distinguished by aging. The most noble ones have the letters “XO” on their label.
3. Cheese delicacies
France has a huge selection of cheeses, each with a distinct character and taste. Having tasted them while traveling, you can choose your favorite variety or a delicacy to take home.
You should buy cheese as a gift the day before, or better yet, on the day of departure. You can transport it in a regular suitcase. The sealed packaging must not be opened. True French cheese can be stored for no more than 4 days, so there is no point in delaying the home tasting, and upon arrival you must immediately put the product in the refrigerator.
The most famous French cheeses:
- Bleu d'Auvergne. Blue cheese. Made from cow's milk.
- Bree. Also made from cow's milk. Cheese with white mold.
- Roquefort. Made from sheep's milk. This is the famous blue cheese.
- Camembert. It has a moldy rind, and the cheese inside is moist and soft. Sold in a wooden box.
- Emmental. Hard grade with large holes. Manufacturing takes a long time - from 6 months to a year.
4. Original treats
An unusual dessert - cider jam - will be an excellent gift for those with a sweet tooth. It has a fairly liquid consistency and an indescribable aroma of true cider - the aroma of France.
You can also pay attention to chestnut jam and classic French sweets.
Fans of more traditional desserts will enjoy pasta. Beautiful and delicious round cakes made from almond flour.
5. Dijon mustard
As the name suggests, the recipe for this mustard was invented in Dijon. Instead of vinegar, grape juice is added to it.
Now in France there are a huge number of varieties of Dijon mustard, some of which add white wine instead of juice.
6. Herbes de Provence
Almost every housewife knows about this excellent seasoning, which has unique flavors. It is named after the province Provence and consists of herbs growing on its territory.
This seasoning can turn any dish into a culinary masterpiece, so it will become a relevant gift for anyone who knows how to cook.
7. Violets as a gift
This souvenir is also a culinary souvenir, because we are talking about a French delicacy - candied violets. Its homeland is Toulouse- By the way, you can even buy violet ice cream and syrup there.
8. Limoges porcelain
Incredibly beautiful porcelain dishes are an excellent premium gift. IN Limoges They use a unique technology for its production, thanks to which the base is uniquely white, and the patterns are bright and clear. Add to this the excellent refined taste inherent in all the French, and you will get real porcelain masterpieces.
9. Ladies' things
And what would France be without perfume! The subtle, refined aroma of famous brands is associated with this country as firmly as the Louvre or Versailles. Chanel, Cartier, Guerlain, Givenchy, Christian Dior – the list of popular French brands can be endless.
If you want to buy the best perfume, take a bottle with the inscription “Essence de parfum”, it contains more essence than alcohol.
For beautiful ladies who are indifferent to perfume, you can give cosmetics. The choice is also impressive - Estée Lauder, Dior, Clarins, Clinique and many other global brands. They can be purchased in branded boutiques and pharmacies.
