Are you going on vacation to France soon and want to know tips that will make your trip even better! In this blog I will tell you practical tips about your trip to France!
1. Learn a few words of French
In the tourist areas, the French can speak English, but in smaller villages, this is often not the case. Being able to say a few simple words and phrases will make your trip even more enjoyable! Think “bonjour” (good day), “merci” (thank you), or “parlez-vous anglais?” (do you speak English?). These are some words that may come in handy during your trip to France.
2. Sunday is a day of rest
In France, Sunday is traditionally a day of rest for the population. Many stores, supermarkets, and restaurants are closed on Sundays, especially in smaller towns and villages. Large cities like Paris do have stores that are open on Sundays, but it is useful to check in advance.
3. Download useful apps
If you are traveling to France, there are several apps you can use to make your trip easier. For example, you can use the app “Citymapper” to navigate through Paris. Furthermore, you can download ‘Deepl‘ as a translation app if you are in more remote areas where English is not spoken.
4. Lunchtime
In smaller villages and towns, many stores and attractions close between 12:00 and 2:00 PM because the French are having lunch. For them, the lunch break is a time for conviviality and rest. Therefore, don’t forget to enjoy a good lunch!
5. ATM and credit card
In many smaller villages and towns in France, cash is preferred. Even for smaller purchases or toll roads that do not accept cards, having cash on hand is important.
Hopefully, you are now well prepared for your vacation to France! Are you going to Paris? If so, consider doing the SmartWalk Paris to discover the city through a walking tour where you can take breaks whenever you want, learn fun facts, and find hidden gems!