Travel Guide to Paris & Beyond
- David Rogers
- Mar 19
- 10 min read
Paris is a must-visit destination for many, and rightly so. Its cuisine, museums, and architecture are renowned, drawing travelers back in every season. However, France offers much more than just its stylish capital.
Within a two-hour journey from the City of Lights, you can discover the vineyards of Champagne and the ancient ruins in the peaceful Cernay-la-Ville. Heading further south, Lyon boasts more restaurants per capita than NYC, and near the French Riviera, you can explore the sunlit lavender fields of Provence.
Paris promises to enchant any traveler, providing unique perspectives with each season. To fully enjoy your visit to Paris and beyond, explore the insider tips below, along with the best accommodations and must-try experiences.
Paris Travel Guide - Need To Know
Paris, along with the rest of France, is a sought-after destination. It’s essential to plan your travel in advance, particularly during peak seasons, as hotels, restaurants, and winery tours tend to book up quickly. Remember to bring a guide, an adapter if necessary, as France uses 230V Type E plugs.
Although everyone desires a smooth trip, unexpected events like lost luggage, illness, or canceled flights can occur, so travel insurance is advisable. Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded places, especially in bigger cities. When visiting smaller towns, keep in mind that many shops and restaurants close at midday.
A bit of French etiquette can be very beneficial, particularly in Paris. In formal situations, light air kisses on both cheeks are customary. Dining is intended to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace, so don’t expect hurried service.
Currency: France uses the Euro as its currency. Although credit cards are generally accepted, it's advisable to have cash on hand for markets and rural locations. Cash can also be useful for extra tipping, but keep in mind that restaurant bills include a service compris.
Languages: French is the official language, but many French citizens are multilingual, including speaking English.
Airports:
Paris & Cernay-la-Ville: France’s primary international entry point is Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), offering flights to major cities on most continents. Paris Orly Airport (ORY) also hosts numerous international and intra-European flights.
Champagne: Most visitors arrive via Paris’ Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY) airports, followed by a TGV train or drive to Champagne. Châlons Vatry Airport (XCR) is a smaller regional option with limited scheduled flights.
Lyon: Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) serves as the main international airport, providing direct flights from key European and global locations.
Provence: Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) is the largest in the region, offering direct flights from significant European and global cities. Additionally, Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE), the main airport for the French Riviera, provides seasonal international flights to the U.S.
Transportation: France boasts an extensive train network, featuring connections like the Eurostar from London and Amsterdam, and seasonal routes to southern cities. Major urban areas offer excellent public transport systems for convenient travel. Guided tours and excursions provide a fantastic way to explore and visit attractions. For less accessible locations, such as Cernay-la-Ville, private transport is advisable.
Best time to visit: Every region in France offers unique experiences year-round. Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) provide mild weather, fewer tourists, and numerous cultural events. December and January are ideal for winter celebrations and Christmas markets. Keep in mind that many Parisians go on summer vacation in August and September, leading to the closure of many smaller shops and restaurants.
Ideal length of stay: Plan to spend at least seven days to fully enjoy Paris and another destination.
Essential expressions: Bonjour (hello), merci (thank you), s’il vous plaît (please), and parlez-vous anglais? (Do you speak English?)
What to wear: Comfortable shoes are always a must. Stylish layers and classic neutrals are a good call in Paris and Lyon. Cernay-la-Ville and Provence are more relaxed but still polished, with breezy fabrics and understated tones. Champagne leans toward a refined, smart casual look. When visiting churches and historic sites, dress modestly.
Signature dishes:
Paris: Steak frites (a bistro staple of steak and fries), duck confit (crispy-skinned, slow-cooked duck), and opera cake (sponge cake soaked in coffee with ganache).
Cernay-la-Ville: Coq au vin (chicken braised in red wine), tarte tatin (an apple tart with caramelized apples), and wild game terrine (a rustic pâté from the countryside).
Champagne: Jambon de Reims (ham infused with herbs), champagne and oysters (a traditional local combination), and biscuits roses de Reims (pink cookies for dipping).
Lyon: Quenelles de brochet (pike dumplings in Nantua sauce), saucisson brioché (brioche-baked sausage), and tarte à la praline (a sweet tart with pink pralines).
Provence: Bouillabaisse (a seafood stew with saffron), ratatouille (slow-cooked vegetables from Provence), and lavender honey and goat cheese (a favored local pairing).
Where To Stay
Spend your mornings strolling through the Jardin des Tuileries before hitting up world-class museums in the afternoon. Make time to linger and enjoy the cafe culture along Paris’ many boulevards, and after a day of exploring, here is a guide to some of the best places to stay.
Paris
Four Seasons Hotel Georges V: This enduring classic epitomizes Parisian luxury. Lavish suites feature traditional French decor, and private terraces provide stunning views of the city and the Eiffel Tower. With Michelin-starred dining, a luxurious spa, and a prime location, it truly stands out.
Booking Four Seasons through me grants you exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner perks.
Kimpton St Honoré Paris: This boutique hotel combines Art Deco and contemporary design in its stylish rooms. In addition to its rooftop bar offering panoramic city views, its prime location near the Opéra Garnier and luxury shopping on Rue Saint-Honoré makes it unparalleled.
Fora’s IHG Destined partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, a welcome amenity, room upgrades, and extended check-in/out when available.
La Fantaisie: A whimsical haven boasting a garden courtyard and lively interiors. This boutique hotel combines playfulness with sophistication, located just moments away from delightful cafes and artisan shops in the South Pigalle district.
Fora Reserve perks include a €100 hotel credit, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out when available.
Brach Paris: A unique and daring getaway with diverse interiors and a lively social atmosphere. The hotel offers a panoramic rooftop terrace, spa, and sports club. Its location is mostly residential but remains near major attractions such as the Eiffel Tower and the Trocadéro.
Fora’s Evok Collector’s Club partner perks include daily breakfast, a welcome amenity, priority concierge service, upgrades, and extended check-in/out when available.
Cernay-la-Ville
On the outskirts of Paris, this is where you can tour historic buildings, wander scenic trails and boat on peaceful lakes. It’s a much slower pace than the streets of Paris, blending relaxation and culture. Nothing beats a stay that combines both.
Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay: A fairytale retreat steeped in history, this peaceful countryside escape is set in a 12th century abbey. Surrounded by forests and lakes, rooms are filled with character and the property is stacked with luxurious amenities like a spa, fine dining and outdoor activities.
Fora’s Accor Preferred partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Champagne
The Champagne region is known for its rolling vineyards and esteemed champagne houses. Visitors can explore cellars and enjoy vintages at the estates in Reims and Épernay. After tastings and a long day, one can relax in a luxurious stay at some favorite hotels.
Domaine Les Crayères: Located in the heart of the Champagne region, this opulent chateau is nestled in a private park in Reims. The rooms are sophisticated, the service is exceptional, and it boasts a two-Michelin-starred restaurant. It offers the perfect getaway in France’s most renowned wine region.
Fora Perks include a tour for two at Champagne Taittinger or Pommery, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa: This luxurious retreat on a hillside offers sweeping views of the vineyards in the countryside. The suites are spacious, the onsite spa is highly regarded, and dining includes Michelin-starred restaurants. It is a sophisticated yet relaxing destination hotel.
Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Lyon
Lyon is a haven for food enthusiasts, where culinary tradition meets Renaissance architecture along picturesque riverbanks. Here, the French have a profound appreciation for food, whether in a quaint bouchon or a globally renowned restaurant. The best part is that the hotels beautifully encapsulate this sophisticated blend of gastronomy and history.
InterContinental Lyon - Hotel Dieu: Located in the historic Grand Hôtel-Dieu, this hotel marries 18th-century magnificence with modern elegance. The spacious rooms provide views of the Rhône River, and the impressive 100-foot dome at Le Dôme bar makes it a unique highlight in the region.
Fora’s IHG Destined partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, a welcome amenity, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
La Villa Florentine: This hilltop sanctuary offers panoramic views of the city in a former 17th-century convent. The modern, luxurious rooms exude Renaissance charm. The onsite spa, infinity pool, and Michelin-starred restaurant provide unmatched convenience.
Fora Perks include a one-way private transfer, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Villa Maïa: This intimate, design-focused retreat on Fourvière Hill offers city views and understated luxury. Spacious suites are complemented by top-tier hospitality, an infinity pool and spa, and a Japanese-inspired garden for a distinct city escape.
Fora’s Leading Hotels (LHW) partner perks include daily breakfast, upgrade priority upon arrival, and extended check-in/out.
Provence
Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas is located on the secluded Tong Nai Pan Noi Beach, one of Thailand’s most stunning coastlines. Arrive in style with a 40-minute speedboat ride from Koh Samui. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed with fresh coconut water and an open reception overlooking the infinity pool. This romantic all-villa resort offers spacious rooms with plunge pools, terraces, and rain showers, all crafted with hardwoods, bamboo, and stucco. Renowned for its sense of place and attentive service, Anantara provides special touches like daily fruit and a water flask to keep you refreshed.
Fora Reserve perks include a complimentary massage for two, welcome amenities, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible (for stays of 5+ nights).
History & Culture
France's history and culture permeate every part of the nation, from bustling cities to serene country villages. Paris boasts iconic landmarks such as the Louvre, Notre-Dame, and the luxurious Palais Garnier. The city's café culture is a beloved tradition, where people enjoy espresso, wine, and animated conversations.
Just beyond the capital, Cernay-la-Ville provides a tranquil retreat in the Haute Vallée de Chevreuse. The ruins of the Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay serve as a striking reminder of France's medieval heritage. This haven's forests and lakes have long been a refuge for artists and those seeking respite from urban life. In Champagne, grand estates and subterranean cellars strive to uphold centuries-old customs. Many establishments, like Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot, continue to use traditional methods for crafting champagne.
Meanwhile, Lyon is recognized as France's gastronomic hub. The tradition of intimate, friendly bistros (bouchons) showcases the city's culinary legacy. Its silk-weaving history is also evident in the traboules, hidden passageways once frequented by silk merchants. Further south, Provence enchants with its renowned lavender fields and Roman ruins. The region is rich in traditions, from the vibrant pétanque games played in village squares to the colorful markets brimming with local produce and crafts.
Activities
Paris
Explore designer shops on Avenue Montaigne, search for vintage treasures in Le Marais, or enjoy an exclusive shopping experience at Paris’ renowned department stores.
Visit iconic museums such as the Louvre or Musee d’Orsay, or delve into the history of haute couture at the YSL and Dior museums.
Travel through Paris’ streets on a sidecar tour or enjoy a picturesque Bateaux Mouches cruise along the Seine River.
Participate in a baking class to master the art of French pastries like croissants and macarons.
Watch a burlesque show at the Crazy Horse or Moulin Rouge.
Explore landmarks like the recently reopened Notre Dame Cathedral or the Palace of Versailles and stroll through the gardens.
Cernay-la-Ville
Embark on a boat journey across the serene lake within the abbey's grounds and forest.
Relax at the spa with a treatment and enjoy the heated indoor pool.
Experience horseback riding through the picturesque woodlands, meadows, and ancient ruins of the Chevreuse Valley.
Swim in the outdoor pool, surrounded by the abbey's historic architecture and gardens.
Explore the extensive estate's walking trails, passing historic ruins, hidden ponds, and charming footbridges.
Champagne
Relax at the spa with treatments and thermal pool dips, all enhanced by views of the region’s vineyards.
Explore champagne houses and family-owned vineyards, from the renowned Maisons in Reims and Épernay to hidden treasures in the countryside.
Enjoy lounging by the pool at luxury hotels, sipping a glass of bubbly while taking in the scenery.
Experience the relaxed charm of Champagne with leisurely walks through historic villages, scenic drives along the Route du Champagne, and extended, wine-filled lunches.
Lyon
Indulge in Lyon’s renowned culinary scene, which features more restaurants per capita than New York City, ranging from casual bouchons to Michelin-starred dining spots.
Visit the famous Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse food market, where both locals and chefs find top-quality meats and pastries.
Join a food tour to taste local specialties at a reasonable cost, while experiencing the city’s rich culinary tradition.
Take the funicular to Fourvière Hill for panoramic views of the city and explore the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière.
Express your creativity in a silk-making class at L’Atelier de Soierie, where you can learn about Lyon’s silk-weaving heritage and create your own scarf.
Provence
Cruise along the coast of Marseille, pausing at exclusive seaside eateries only reachable by boat.
Discover the cities through guided walking tours, followed by an olive oil and chocolate tasting featuring local Provençal specialties.
Peruse the daily markets in Aix-en-Provence for artisanal cheeses, fresh lavender, and handmade crafts.
Participate in a perfume-making workshop to create a unique, personal fragrance.
Drive through the lavender fields of Provence during the season or visit famous vineyards near Aix-en-Provence for a picturesque wine tasting.
Stroll through the medieval streets of Avignon to encounter historic plazas, lively markets, and interactive cooking classes.
Alternate Destinations
Whether you've visited France or are seeking a unique getaway, these destinations provide incredible culture, delectable cuisine, and stunning vistas.
Florence & Tuscany, Italy: A blend of Renaissance art, picturesque vineyards, and medieval towns, offering a culinary and wine experience similar to Lyon and Champagne.
The Cotswolds & Bath, England: A charming countryside escape, perfect for those who enjoy quaint villages, rolling hills, and historic spa towns akin to Aix-en-Provence.
Kyoto & Hakone, Japan: A paradise for history buffs and food lovers, with Kyoto's ancient temples and Hakone's peaceful hot springs providing a serene retreat.
Buenos Aires & Mendoza, Argentina: Where European-style architecture and vibrant café culture blend with local traditions in Buenos Aires, while Mendoza offers world-class wines set against a breathtaking mountain backdrop.
Bruges & The Belgian Countryside, Belgium: A romantic option to Paris, Bruges captivates with its canals and medieval allure, while the nearby countryside presents idyllic landscapes and outstanding chocolate.
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