tokenpocket钱包最新版本|france

作者： tokenpocket钱包最新版本

2024-03-08 19:31:00

法国（法兰西共和国）_百度百科

兰西共和国）_百度百科网页新闻贴吧知道网盘图片视频地图文库资讯采购百科百度首页登录注册进入词条全站搜索帮助首页秒懂百科特色百科知识专题加入百科百科团队权威合作下载百科APP个人中心法国是一个多义词，请在下列义项上选择浏览（共10个义项）展开添加义项法国[fǎ guó]播报讨论上传视频法兰西共和国收藏查看我的收藏0有用+10法兰西共和国（法语：La République française），简称法国，首都巴黎，位于欧洲西部，与比利时、卢森堡、德国、瑞士、意大利、摩纳哥、西班牙、安道尔接壤，西北隔英吉利海峡与英国相望，海洋性、大陆性、地中海型和山地气候并存。地势东南高西北低。总面积550000平方千米（不含海外领地），海岸线2700千米，陆地线2800千米，本土划为13个大区、94个省。截至2023年1月，法国人口为6804万人，主要为法兰西民族，大多信奉天主教，官方语言为法语。 [1]法国古称“高卢”，5世纪，法兰克人移居到这里，建立法兰克王国。10~14世纪，卡佩王朝统治时期改称法兰西王国。1789年7月14日，爆发法国大革命，发表《人权宣言》，废除君主制。1792年，建立第一共和国。此后历经拿破仑建立的第一帝国、波旁王朝复辟、七月王朝、第二共和国、第二帝国、第三共和国。1871年3月，巴黎人民武装起义，成立巴黎公社。第一次世界大战中，法国参加协约国，对同盟国作战获胜。第二次世界大战期间遭到德国入侵，法国本土成立了维希法国，戴高乐组织自由法国运动。1944年8月，维希政府瓦解。1946年10月，法兰西第四共和国成立。1958年，第五共和国成立。 [1]法国是最发达的工业国家之一，在核电、航空、航天和铁路方面居世界领先地位，钢铁、汽车和建筑业为三大工业支柱。是联合国安全理事会常任理事国、欧盟创始国及北约成员国；是联合国教科文组织、国际刑警组织、经合组织、欧洲议会等国际和地区组织总部所在地。最新新闻摩尔多瓦与法国签署防务合作协议12小时前3月7日，摩尔多瓦与法国签署防务合作协议，法国总统马克龙说，法国将在摩尔多瓦建立常设防卫代表处。...详情内容来自中文名法兰西共和国 [1]外文名La République française [1]（法文）The French Republic [1]（英文）简称法国所属洲欧洲首都巴黎 [1]主要城市马赛、里昂、图卢兹、尼斯、南特、斯特拉斯堡、蒙彼利埃、里尔等 [1]国庆日7月14日 [1]国歌《马赛曲》 [1]国家代码FRA官方语言法语 [1]货币欧元 [1]时区UTC+1政治体制半总统半议会制 [1]国家领袖埃马纽埃尔·马克龙（总统）、加布里埃尔·阿塔尔（总理）人口数量6804 万 [1]（2023年1月）人口密度123.7 人/平方公里（2023年1月）主要民族法兰西人、布列塔尼人、科西嘉人、阿尔萨斯人 [1]主要宗教天主教 [1]国土面积550000 km² [1]（不含海外领地）水域率0.26%GDP总计2.94 万亿美元 [10]（2021年）人均GDP43518.5 美元 [10]（2021年）国际电话区号33国际域名缩写.fr道路通行靠右行驶国鸟高卢鸡，云雀国花香根鸢尾国石珍珠国家格言自由、平等、博爱国家结构单一制中央银行法兰西银行大型企业标致、雪铁龙、雷诺等主要学府巴黎大学、索邦大学著名景点巴黎圣母院、埃菲尔铁塔、凡尔赛宫、卢浮宫目录1历史沿革▪高卢时期▪中古早期▪中古中期▪中古晚期▪革命时期▪一战时期▪二战时期▪战后时期▪第五共和国2地理环境▪区域位置▪地形地貌▪气候▪自然资源3行政区划▪区划详情▪主要城市4国家象征▪国名▪国旗▪国徽▪国歌▪国花5人口6政治▪政体▪宪法▪议会▪政府▪司法▪政党▪政要7经济▪综述▪农业▪工业▪金融▪货币▪服务业▪旅游业▪对外贸易▪对外投资▪外来投资▪对外援助8文化▪文学▪艺术▪节日▪饮食▪名人▪宗教习俗9军事10交通▪铁路▪公路▪水运▪空运▪公共交通11社会▪教育▪卫生▪体育▪科技▪通信▪媒体▪电力▪民生▪治安12外交▪外交政策▪对外关系▪中法关系13旅游▪主要景点▪文化遗址历史沿革播报编辑高卢时期史前与高卢时期（公元5世纪以前）远古时期，在法兰西的土地上就有人类居住。迄今为止已在法国发现从旧石器时代到铁器时代各个时期相当系统的人类文化遗迹，包括30万~40万年前的人类颌骨化石，法国西南部拉斯科等地洞穴里约2万年前的人物雕刻和动物壁画，法国西部的3000~4000年前布列塔尼巨石墓碑和土坟，以及各种式样的生产工具与艺术创造。公元前1000年左右，凯尔特人自中欧山区迁居于此。罗马人把该地称为高卢，把当地居民称为高卢人。 [2]日耳曼民族大迁徙影响了高卢的发展。418年，西哥特人在阿基坦建立王国。443年，勃艮第人在索恩河与隆河流域建立王国，不列颠人占领今日的布列塔尼。451年，匈人在阿提拉率领下入侵高卢，后被罗马与蛮族（包括法兰克人）联军击败。高卢完全被蛮族诸王控制。公元5世纪后期，定居在默兹河与埃斯科河之间的法兰克人，在国王克洛维一世（见法兰克王国）率领下大举西侵，先后击败罗马军事长官西阿格里乌斯和阿勒曼尼人、西哥特人。481年，法兰克人占领了除勃艮第王国和地中海沿岸外的全部高卢，并移驻巴黎，建立法兰克王国。 [2]中古早期5~10世纪该时期包括两个王朝：墨洛温王朝和加洛林王朝。查理曼帝国墨洛温王朝是法兰克王国的第1个王朝。公元481年，墨洛温之孙克洛维一世击败西罗马帝国在高卢的势力，正式建立该王朝。8世纪初，东法兰克与西法兰克之间的争夺尤烈。东法兰克宫相查理在北方恢复秩序，732年，在普瓦蒂埃击退阿拉伯人的入侵，重新统一法兰克王国。751年，他的儿子丕平（751~768年在位）在教皇支持下正式即位，建立加洛林王朝。768年，丕平之子查理曼继承王位。在他统治期间连年出征意大利、西班牙、日耳曼等地区，到800年，他已把过去罗马帝国统治下的西欧广大地区置于自己控制之下，并由教皇为他加冕，查理曼成为西方皇帝。843年，签署的《凡尔登条约》，查理曼帝国一分为三，其中西法兰克王国演变为法国。从克洛维到雨果·卡佩的500年间，蛮族入侵、内外战争连绵不断。封建自然经济的盛行，领主权力的扩大，贵族离心倾向与独立性的加强，造成长期生产落后、封建割据与国家不统一的局面。 [2]中古中期10~15世纪这一时期包括卡佩王朝（987~1328年）和瓦卢瓦王朝（1328~1589年）。中世纪中期，法国农业、手工业、商业有所发展。人口逐渐增长，至14世纪20年代，约达1600万。在交通要道和集市出现了许多新兴城市，从11世纪起，一些城市发动公社运动，通过武装起义或金钱赎买取得了自治权。随着城市的兴起，出现了一个新的社会阶级——市民阶级，他们成为与特权等级（教士、贵族）有别的第三等级。商品货币关系的发展加强了国内的经济联系，为国家统一创造了有利条件。卡佩王朝初期，王室直接控制的领地只限于塞纳河和卢瓦尔河之间，各大公国、伯国恃势割据，俨如独立王国。腓力四世统治时期（1286~1314年）加强吏治，整饬军队，因坚持向教会征收财产税与教皇发生冲突。1328年，查理四世死后，因卡佩家族嫡系无男嗣，由卡佩家族的旁支瓦卢瓦家族的腓力六世继承王位，建立了瓦卢瓦王朝。1337年，英法“百年战争”爆发。1358年，巴黎北部又发生了扎克雷起义。战争后期涌现出民族英雄贞德，虽然她被出卖遇害，但民族统一的趋势已不可阻挡。1453年，“百年战争”以法国胜利而告终。到15世纪末，最后几块贵族领地——勃艮第、比卡第、布列塔尼、普罗旺斯、鲁西永也并入法兰西王国的版图。 [2]中古晚期16~18世纪路易十四这一时期是法国从封建社会向资本主义社会过渡的重要时期。这个时期的后半期在法国历史上称为“旧制度”。从16世纪起法国资本主义生产关系开始萌芽和发展。新航路的开辟使法国对外贸易的重点从地中海转到大西洋，从17世纪起法国向北美、中美、非洲、印度扩张殖民地。16世纪上半叶，英法百年战争的创伤尚未愈合，瓦卢瓦王朝的法兰西斯一世和亨利二世又发动了侵略意大利的战争，并与神圣罗马帝国皇帝查理五世争夺德法边境土地，从而揭开了法国与哈布斯堡家族长期争霸斗争的序幕。1559年，意大利战争结束，法国取得加来和梅斯、图尔、凡尔登3个主教区的统治权。1589年，波旁王朝的第一个国王亨利四世（1589~1610年在位）继位后极力恢复和平，休养生息，其后经过主教大臣黎塞留和马扎然的整顿，到路易十四亲政时期，法国专制王权进入极盛时期。17-18世纪的法国路易十四加强封建中央集权统治，大力削弱地方贵族的权力。促进资本主义工商业的发展。同时，路易十四与哈布斯堡家族的长期战争，使法国东部边疆延伸到斯特拉斯堡。路易十五统治时期（1715~1774年），虽然经济有所发展，但专制王权日趋衰落。1774年，路易十六即位，资产阶级日益感到政治地位与经济实力愈来愈不相称，他们对关卡制度、行会条例和不公平的征税制度极为不满，特别反对贵族和教士的特权。代表资产阶级利益的启蒙运动蓬勃发展起来，他们抨击天主教会和专制王权，传播科学知识，宣扬民主、自由、平等、理性。法国封建制度陷于严重的危机。革命时期1789年，开始的法国大革命是法国历史上重要的分水岭，它结束了1000多年的封建统治，开始了资本主义确立和发展时期。法国大革命以来近200年的历史可分为3个时期：共和制度深入民心从法国大革命到巴黎公社（1789~1871年）这个时期可称为“革命的世纪”，在这82年中共进行了5次革命（1789年、1830年、1848年、1870年、1871年）。1789年7月14日爆发资产阶级大革命，发表《人权宣言》，废除君主制，建立资产阶级政权，发展资本主义。1792年9月22日，法兰西第一共和国成立。1793年，国王路易十六被推上了断头台，波旁王朝被推翻，封建制度被废除，国内外反革命势力被击溃。在革命不断取得胜利时刻，革命阵营内部的矛盾激化。1794年7月，反对罗伯斯比尔的各派力量联合起来，发动热月政变，颠覆了雅各宾派的统治。1799年11月，拿破仑发动雾月政变，建立执政府，1804年，拿破仑称帝，改共和国为法兰西第一帝国，取消民主自由，加强中央集权，颁布《民法典》，从法律上维护和巩固了资本主义所有制和资产阶级的社会经济秩序，对法国的资本主义发展起了积极作用。 [2]1814年，复辟王朝的路易十八颁布《宪章》，保证不改变大革命确立的经济秩序和资产阶级自由权利。1820年，王党极右分子当权，背弃《宪章》，激起资产阶级自由派和人民群众的愤怒。1830年，七月革命推翻了查理十世，代之以七月王朝，政权落入大资产阶级手中。1830年，工业革命在法国兴起，掀起建筑铁路热潮，19世纪30~40年代，工人运动如里昂工人起义、共和运动、民主运动此伏彼起，最后汇为巨流。1848年，二月革命推翻七月王朝，建立法兰西第二共和国。这次革命使资产阶级各个阶层都参加了政权，与此同时，工人也提出了自己的要求，引起资产阶级的恐惧。同年6月，巴黎工人举行起义，遭到残酷镇压，同年12月，路易-拿破仑·波拿巴利用农民对拿破仑一世的迷信当选总统。1851年12月2日，路易-拿破仑·波拿巴发动政变，翌年称帝，为拿破仑三世，建立法兰西第二帝国。 [2]第二帝国统治的18年中，工业革命取得巨大进展，从19世纪60年代起共和运动、民主运动和工人运动持续高涨，1870年9月初，拿破仑三世在普法战争中的溃败引起了9月4日革命，巴黎人民推翻帝制，宣布共和。成立法兰西第三共和国。1871年初，巴黎人民呼吁建立公社，继续抗战。第一国际巴黎支部的左派领导人与工人联合起来，成立了国民自卫军中央委员会。同年3月，巴黎人民武装起义，成立世界上第一个无产阶级政权——巴黎公社，在阶级力量对比过分悬殊的情况下，同年5月，巴黎公社旋被镇压。 [1]1900年~1913年，法国垄断组织相继出现，银行资本的集中尤为突出，成为仅次于英国的资本输出国。一战时期普法战争后，法国对外政策的主要目标是准备对德复仇和进行殖民扩张，法国为了摆脱自己的孤立地位，1892年，与俄国缔结军事同盟，1904年，又与英国缔结协约。第一次世界大战中，法国虽然是战胜国，收复了阿尔萨斯和洛林，夺取德国一些殖民地，但损失惨重。战后经济严重困难，政局不稳。1914~1940年之间，内阁变更45次之多。1923年，法国、比利时出兵占领德国鲁尔矿区。1924年，激进社会党与社会党组成以赫里欧为首的左翼联盟政府。1926~1929年，普恩加莱统治时期，出现了暂时繁荣和稳定局面。 [2]二战时期1934年2月6日，几万名法西斯武装暴徒借反对斯塔维斯基贪污案，在巴黎举行示威，冲向议会大厦波旁宫。达拉第政府被迫辞职，共和制再度面临危机。1939年9月1日，德军入侵波兰，法国实行全国总动员。9月3日，法国对德宣战，但法国节节败退。1940年6月22日，贝当元帅与德国签订投降协定，法兰西第三共和国覆灭。同年7月，在法国中部的维希建立了傀儡政府，被称为“维希法国”。从第三共和国覆灭到第四共和国建立，中间经历了抗击德、意法西斯的战斗和制订新宪法的斗争。1940年6月18日，戴高乐将军在伦敦通过英国广播公司发表讲话，号召法国人民抵抗纳粹德国对法国的占领，这次讲话也被称作《六·一八宣言》。这一宣言标志着由戴高乐将军领导的反法西斯侵略和维护民族独立“自由法国”运动开始。 [15]戴高乐将军领导的抵抗运动迅速发展，1944年6月，成立临时政府，团结国内和殖民地反法西斯力量继续抗战。在同盟国和法国共产党领导的抵抗运动的配合下，1944年8月，在法国抵抗运动和盟军的打击下，维希政府瓦解。同年8月25日，收复巴黎，接着全国光复。 [2]战后时期戴高乐回到巴黎对于战后法国应建立什么样的共和国问题，各派政治力量意见分歧：以共产党为代表的左翼要求制订一院制的民主宪法；戴高乐派要求削弱议会，加强总统权力；以人民共和党为代表的第三势力坚持恢复第三共和国时期的议会制度。1946年10月，法兰西第四共和国，成立通过第四共和国宪法，此后进入政坛不稳定时期，12年间更迭了20多届政府。 [1]第四共和国时期，法国通过几个复兴计划完成了设备更新。工业生产迅速增长，人民生活逐渐富裕。在对外关系上，法国接受马歇尔计划，1949年，成为北大西洋公约组织的成员国。1957年，根据《罗马条约》法国与联邦德国、意大利、荷兰、比利时、卢森堡建立了西欧六国共同市场。第五共和国1958年，第五共和国成立，戴高乐出任首任总统。法国国旗为蓝白红三色旗，国歌为《马赛曲》。1958~1969年，戴高乐执政期间执行独立自主的外交方针。1959年，从北大西洋公约组织收回对法国舰队的指挥权，禁止美国使用法国基地。1960年，法国爆炸第一颗原子弹。1963年，戴高乐拒绝签订美苏禁止核扩散条约，同德意志联邦共和国恢复邦交，提出“欧洲人的欧洲”的口号，否决与美国有特殊关系的英国加入西欧共同市场。1964年，法国与中国恢复外交关系。1966年，法国军队全部退出北大西洋公约组织，迫使该组织总部撤离法国迁往布鲁塞尔。1981年5月，社会党人F.M.M.密特朗当选总统。1981年6月，举行国民议会大选，社会党赢得55%的议席，从而成为法国第一大党。1986年，3月国民议会选举，社会党受挫，出现了第五共和国成立以来未曾有过的左翼总统与右翼总理共处的局面。1992年，于荷兰的马斯特里赫特签署了《欧洲联盟条约》。地理环境播报编辑区域位置法国位于欧洲西部，国土总面积550000平方千米， [1]为欧洲国土面积第三大、西欧面积最大的国家。北邻比利时、卢森堡，东北与德国接壤，东部与瑞士相邻，东南与意大利交界，南部毗邻摩纳哥，西南紧邻西班牙和安道尔，西北隔拉芒什海峡（也称英吉利海峡）与英国相望。法国的南部、西部和西北部，分别濒临地中海、大西洋、英吉利海峡和北海四大海域，地中海上的科西嘉岛是法国最大的岛屿。法国的地势东南高西北低，平原占总面积的2/3，主要山脉有阿尔卑斯山脉、比利牛斯山脉、汝拉山脉等。边境线总长度为6337千米，其中海岸线3424千米，陆地线2913千米，内河线195千米。 [1]法国地形地貌法国地势东南高西北低，平原占总面积的三分之二。主要山脉有阿尔卑斯山脉、比利牛斯山脉、汝拉山脉等。法意边境的勃朗峰海拔4810米，为欧洲第二高峰；主要河流有卢瓦尔河（1010千米）、隆河（812千米）、塞纳河（776千米）。 [1]法国地形气候法国的气候特点是海洋性、大陆性、地中海型和山地气候并存。西部属海洋性温带阔叶林气候，南部属亚热带地中海式气候，中部和东部属大陆性气候。1月平均气温北部1℃-7℃，南部6℃-8℃；7月北部16℃-18℃，南部21℃-24℃。虽然夏天气温有时超过30℃，但总体来说，气候较为舒爽宜人。自然资源法国铁矿蕴藏量约10亿吨，但品位低、开采成本高，煤储量几近枯竭，所有铁矿、煤矿均已关闭，所需矿石完全依赖进口。有色金属储量很少，几乎全部依赖进口。能源主要依靠核能，约70.6%的电力靠核能提供。此外，水力和地热资源的开发利用也比较充分。据法国国家林业局和国家地理和森林信息研究所统计：森林面积本土约1700万公顷，覆盖率31%，五个海外省森林面积870万公顷。 [1]行政区划播报编辑区划详情法国行政区划（区划调整前地图）法国行政区划分为大区、省和市镇。本土划为13个大区、96个省，还有5个海外单省大区、5个海外行政区和1个地位特殊的海外属地。全国共有34970个市镇。 [1]法国行政区划大区省省编号上法兰西大区Hauts-de-France诺尔省Nord59加来海峡省Pas-de-Calai62索姆省Somme80瓦兹省Oise60埃纳省Aisne02法兰西岛大区Île-de-France巴黎Paris75上塞纳省Haute-Seine92瓦勒德马恩省Val-de-Marne94塞纳-圣但尼省Seine-Saint-Denis93伊夫林省Yvelines78瓦勒德瓦兹省Val-d'Oise95塞纳-马恩省Seine-et-Marne77埃松省Essonne91大东部大区Grand Est阿登省Ardennes08马恩省Marne51上马恩省Haute-Marne52奥布省Aube10默兹省Meuse55孚日省Vosges88摩泽尔省Moselle57默尔特-摩泽尔省Muerthe-Moselle54上莱茵省Haut-Rhin68下莱茵省Bas-Rhin67勃艮第-弗朗什-孔泰大区Bourgogne-Franche-Comté约讷省Yonne89涅夫勒省Niévre58索恩-卢瓦尔省Saône-et-Loire71科多尔省Côté-d’Or21上索恩省Haute-Saône70汝拉省Jura39杜省Doubs25贝尔福地区省Terr-de-Belfort90奥弗涅-罗讷-阿尔卑斯大区Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes安省Ain01罗讷省Rhône69卢瓦尔省Loire43阿尔代什省Ardèche07德龙省Drôme26伊泽尔省Isère38萨瓦省Savoie73上萨瓦省Haute-Savoie74阿列尔省Allier03多姆山省Puy-de-Dôme63康塔尔省Cantal15上卢瓦尔省Haute-Loire42普罗旺斯-阿尔卑斯-蓝色海岸大区Provence-Alpes-Côté-d’Azur上阿尔卑斯省Haute-Alpes05上普罗旺斯阿尔卑斯省Alpes-de-Haute-Provence04滨海阿尔卑斯省Alpes-Maritimes06瓦尔省Var83罗讷河口省Bouches-du-Rhône13沃克吕兹省Vauclus84奥克西塔尼大区Occitanie洛泽尔省Lozèrre48加尔省Gard30埃罗省Hérault34奥德省Aude11东比利牛斯省Pyrénées-Orientales66阿韦龙省Aveyron12洛特省Lot46塔恩省Tarn81塔恩-加龙省Tarn-Garonne82热尔省Gers32上加龙省Haute Garonne31阿列日省Ariège09上比利牛斯省Hautes-Pyrénées65新阿基坦大区Nouvelle-Aquitaine比利牛斯-大西洋省Pyrénées-Atlantiques64朗德省Landes40洛特-加龙省Lot-et-Garonne47吉伦特省Gironde33多尔多涅省Dordogne24滨海夏朗德省Charente-Maritime17夏朗德省Charente16德塞夫勒省Deux-Sevres79维埃纳省Vienne86上维埃纳省Haute-Vienne87克勒兹省Creuse23科雷兹省Corrèze19中央-卢瓦尔河谷大区Centre-Val de Loires厄尔-卢瓦尔省Eure-et-Loir28卢瓦尔-谢尔省Loir-et-Cher41安德尔-卢瓦尔省Indre-et-Loire37安德尔省Indre36谢尔省Cher18卢瓦雷省Loiret45卢瓦尔河地区大区Pays de la Loire马耶讷省Mayenne53萨尔特省Sarthe72曼恩-卢瓦尔省Maine-et-Loire49大西洋岸卢瓦尔省Loire-Atlantique44旺代省Vendée85布列塔尼大区Bretagne伊勒-维莱讷省Ille-et-Vilaine35阿摩尔滨海省Côtés-d'Armor22莫尔比昂省Morbihan56菲尼斯泰尔省Finistère29诺曼底大区Normandie奥恩省Orne61卡尔瓦多斯省Calvados14芒什省Manche50滨海塞纳省Seine-Maritime76厄尔省Eure27科西嘉大区Corse上科西嘉省Haute-Corse20B南科西嘉省Corse-du-Sud20A海外单省大区瓜德罗普大区瓜德罗普Guadeloupe971马提尼克大区马提尼克Martinique972法属圭亚那大区法属圭亚那French Guyane973留尼旺大区留尼旺La Réunion974马约特大区马约特Mayotte975海外行政区圣皮埃尔和密克隆Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon圣巴泰勒米Saint-Barthélemy法属圣马丁Saint-Martin瓦利斯和富图纳Wallis-et-Futuna法属波利尼西亚Polynésie française特殊集体新喀里多尼亚Nouvelle-Calédonie海外领地法属南部和南极领地Terres australes et antarctiques无建制岛屿克利珀顿岛Clipperton主要城市巴黎巴黎风光巴黎（Paris），市区人口210.3万（2022，法国国家统计局2023年2月预测）。海洋性气候，夏季温暖舒适，日照充足，气温15－25℃；春秋季温和凉爽，骤冷骤热时有发生；冬季白天凉爽、夜晚寒冷，最低气温一般在3℃左右，很少低于－5℃。平均年降水量641毫米。巴黎拉德芳斯商务区巴黎市是法国经济中心，农业、制造业、服务业发达。全国约一半的企业及工程师、高级技师、科研人员集中在巴黎。巴黎也是法国的金融中心，全国大多数银行总部和保险业公司总部均设在巴黎。巴黎同时是全国交通中心和国际交通枢纽，航空业发达，现有2个大型国际机场。巴黎风光巴黎市是法国文化、教育事业的中心，世界文化名城，集中了全国很多著名大学、学院、研究机构、图书馆和博物馆。巴黎市拥有许多世界闻名的历史遗迹和艺术建筑。同时，它还是世界会议之都。联合国教科文组织、经济合作与发展组织等总部均设在巴黎。 [11]里昂里昂索恩河两岸里昂是法国第二大城市，是联合国教科文组织世界文化遗产名城和美食之都，位于罗讷河和索恩河汇流处，以及从地中海通往欧洲北部的战略走廊上。作为水、陆、空交通枢纽，里昂是沟通北欧和南欧的交通要道，高速火车经过里昂通往法国各大城市。作为规模适中的国际大都市，里昂是世人领略法式生活艺术的胜地。得益于令其成为理想步行游览地的漂亮而古老的街区、法国美食之都的美誉以及较高的生活品质和闻名遐迩的安全度，富有2000年璀璨历史的里昂每年吸引着成千上万来自世界各地的游客。 [12]里昂风光里昂是法国重要的工业城市和除巴黎之外最重要的科教中心，机械、电子、化工、重型汽车、计算机等产业实力雄厚，拥有20余所高等院校和科研机构，通常被认为是法国的第二大都市区。里昂也是法国乃至欧洲重要的文化与艺术中心，以丝绸贸易而闻名，在罗马时代就相当繁荣，1998年里昂老城被联合国教科文组织列为世界文化遗产。里昂也是世界电影的诞生地和二战期间参加抵抗运动的城市。此外，里昂还是国际刑事警察组织的所在地，里昂足球俱乐部也位于里昂。尼斯尼斯风光尼斯是地中海沿岸法国南部港口城市，位于普罗旺斯-阿尔卑斯-蓝色海岸大区，地处马赛和意大利热那亚之间，为滨海阿尔卑斯省行政中心。面积为7192公顷，其中300公顷为绿地。拥有人口40万，海岸线10公里，其中7.6公里为海滩，是法国第五大城市、普罗旺斯-阿尔卑斯-蓝色海岸大区第二大城市（第一大城市为马赛）。尼斯风光尼斯在40万年前就有人类居住，这座小城经历了重要的繁荣发展时期并成为当今一个非常时髦的度假胜地。如今的尼斯一如既往地大力发展艺术、文化、服务、高科技研究以及旅游等各个产业，因此，其丰富多样、独具特色的文化艺术脱颖而出；迷人的海滩及壮丽的山脉等自然风光在城市中随处可见；其极具特色的美食与克里特岛风格相近；当然这也是一座时尚流行的购物天堂。尼斯是继巴黎之后法国第1大的旅游中心，每年吸引400万名游客。尼斯-蔚蓝海岸国际机场是继巴黎之后法国最大的机场，拥有180家酒店，客房数量为10000间，是继巴黎之后法国拥有酒店数量最多的城市。尼斯狂欢节尼斯保留有不同时期的丰富多样的建筑遗址，包括西米耶街区的斗兽场、公共浴场，古希腊遗迹和中世纪遗址的城堡山丘，加里巴尔迪广场，巴洛克艺术，俄罗斯东正教圣尼古拉大教堂等。尼斯每年举办2000多场文化、节庆或体育盛会，其中每年2月的尼斯狂欢节作为世界三大狂欢节之一享誉世界，每年吸引数十万游客并为尼斯政府带来上千万欧元的可观收入。此外，还有各月份的节庆活动，如巴黎-尼斯国际自行车大赛、国际半程马拉松、阿尔卑斯滨海省尼斯-戛纳马拉松赛跑等。 [13]此外，里尔、马赛、图卢兹、南特及波尔多都是法国的重要城市。 [1]国家象征播报编辑国名法国全称法兰西共和国，国名源于中世纪前期的法兰克王国。自从法兰克王国分裂后，西部法兰克王国沿用其名称并演变为法兰西。“法兰西”（France）这一称呼最早出现于11世纪的《罗兰之歌》中。现为法兰西第五共和国。国旗国旗法国国旗三色旗是法国大革命时巴黎国民自卫队队旗。白色代表国王，蓝、红色代表巴黎市民，是王室和巴黎资产阶级联盟的象征。今天的法国人民也认为，三色旗上的蓝色是自由的象征，白色是平等的象征，而红色代表了博爱，正如法国人民“自由、平等、博爱” [3]（法语："Liberté， égalité， fraternité"）的宣言。1946年宪法确认其为国旗。三色带的宽度比为37:30:33。据法新社2021年11月15日报道，法国总统马克龙的办公室在2020年7月的时候，将爱丽舍宫、国民议会以及政府部门使用的法国国旗改暗了蓝色。 [4]国徽法国国徽法国没有正式国徽，但传统上采用大革命时期的纹章作为国家的标志。纹章为椭圆形，上绘有大革命时期流行标志之一的束棒，这是古罗马高级执法官用的权标，是权威的象征。束棒两侧饰有橄榄枝和橡树枝叶，其间缠绕的饰带上用法文写着“自由、平等、博爱”。整个图案由带有古罗马军团勋章的环带饰品所环绕。 [3]国歌法国国歌为《马赛曲》，作于1792年奥地利、普鲁士武装干涉法国革命的危急时刻，表达了法国人民争取民主、反对暴政的坚强信心和大无畏精神。歌词原作者是鲁日·德·里斯尔。1792年12月，《马赛曲》被革命政府宣布为“共和国之歌”。到1795年，被国会正式通过定为国歌。法国大革命期间，有过许多鼓舞斗志的战斗歌曲，而最受群众喜爱、流行最广的当属《马赛曲》。国花香根鸢尾香根鸢尾，多年生草本。是法国的国花。属于鸢尾科，它体大花美，婀娜多姿，与百合花极为相似。但实际上，鸢尾与百合分属两个截然不同的科类，虽然一眼看去，似乎两者都有六枚 “花瓣”，殊不知鸢尾花只有三枚花瓣，其余外围的那三瓣乃是保护花蕾的萼片，只是由于这三枚瓣状萼片长得酷似花瓣，以致常常以假乱真，令人难于辨认。此外，鸢尾的花瓣一半向上翘起，一半向下翻卷，而百合花的花瓣却一律向上。人口播报编辑截至2023年1月，法国总人口为6804万人。 [1]居民中64%信奉天主教，3%信奉伊斯兰教，3%信奉新教，1%信奉犹太教，28%自称无宗教信仰。法兰西民族是由多个民族混合构成的，除了主体法兰西人外，边境地区还有阿尔萨斯人、布列塔尼人、科西嘉人、佛拉芒人、巴斯克人等少数民族，大约占了总人口的7.9%。 [1]法国在欧盟各国人口数量排名第二，仅次于德国。巴黎大区是法国人口最多的地区，居民总数1221万人。法国国家经济统计局人口统计中心发布的报告显示，2020年，法国移民人口为680万，占总人口的10.2%，其中250万移民，即36%获得了法国国籍。在法国的外国人口达510万人，占总人口的7.6%。生活在法国的非洲移民占47.5%，欧洲移民占32.2%，一半的移民来自阿尔及利亚、摩洛哥、葡萄牙、突尼斯、意大利、土耳其和西班牙这七个国家。政治播报编辑政体根据法国现行第五共和国宪法规定，法国为半总统半议会制，总统为国家元首和武装部队统帅。 [1]宪法法国现行第五共和国宪法系1958年9月公民投票通过，10月4日生效，是法国历史上第16部宪法。曾进行过多次修改。宪法规定，总统为国家元首和武装部队统帅，任期5年，由选民直接选举产生。总统任免总理并批准总理提名的部长；主持内阁会议、最高国防会议和国防委员会；有权解散议会，但一年内不得解散两次；可不经议会而将某些重要法案直接提交公民投票表决；在非常时期，总统拥有“根据形势需要采取必要措施”的全权。在总统不能履行职务或空缺时，由参议长暂行总统职权。 [1]议会实行国民议会和参议院两院制，拥有制定法律、监督政府、通过预算、批准宣战等权力。国民议会共577席，任期5年，采用两轮多数投票制，由选民直接选举产生。本届国民议会于2022年6月选出，总统多数派“在一起”赢得相对多数，复兴党（总统派）议员娅艾尔·布朗—皮韦（Yaël　Braun－Pivet）当选新任议长。参议院共348席，由国民议会和地方各级议会议员组成选举团间接选举产生，任期为6年，每3年改选1／2。2023年9月，参议院举行三年一次的改选，中右翼阵营保持在参议院的多数派地位，共和人党参议员热拉尔·拉尔歇（Gérard　Larcher）胜选连任。 [1]政府法国中央政府是国家最高行政机关，对议会负责。除拥有决定和指导国家政策、掌管行政机构和武装力量、推行内外政策等权力外，还享有警察权、行政处置权、条例制订权和命令发布权。总理由总统任命，领导政府的活动，并确保法律执行。政府成员由总理提请总统任免。本届政府于2024年1月成立，除总理外，目前另有部长11名、部长级代表3名（截止至2024年1月12日）。司法法国分为两个相对独立的司法管辖体系，即负责审理民事和刑事案件的普通法院与负责公民与政府机关之间争议案件的行政法院。普通法院有两类：民事法院、刑事法院。普通法院系统纵向分为四级：初审法院、高等法院、上诉法院和最高法院。最高法院是最高一级司法机关，负责受理对36个上诉法院所作判决的上诉。行政法院是最高行政诉讼机关，下设行政法庭。行政法院对行政法令的合法性作最后裁决，并充当政府在制定法律草案方面的顾问。行政法院院长名义上由总理担任，后者委托副院长行使管理权。法国的检察机关没有独立的组织系统，其职能由各级法院中配备的检察官行使。检察官虽派驻在法院内，但职能独立于法院，其管理权属于司法部。最高法院设总检察长1人，检察官若干人；上诉法院设检察长1人，检察官若干人；高等法院设检察官1人，代理检察官和助理检察官若干人。 [1]政党法国实行多党制，主要政党有：政党性质介绍（1）复兴党（Renaissance）执政党和国民议会第一大党2022年5月5日，共和国前进党（La République en Marche!，缩写LREM）宣布更名为复兴党参加6月的国民议会选举。前身为马克龙于2016年4月领导创建的“前进”运动（En Marche!），2017年5月更名为共和国前进党。其核心创始成员大多来自社会党改革派和民间社会，后又陆续吸纳了大量来自右翼温和派、中间派等其他派别成员。2017年6月赢得立法选举，取得国民议会的绝对控制权。主张超越传统左右翼理念分歧和党派之争，兼容并蓄，博采众长。经济上倡导改革创新，推行以促进就业、增强市场活力为核心的经济政策；社会政策上重视民生教育，维护社会公平正义和稳定；外交政策上坚持以独立自主为核心的“戴高乐-密特朗主义”，以欧盟为重点，努力捍卫欧洲一体化，平衡发展同世界各大国的关系，维护法国在欧盟内部和国际舞台上的地位和影响力，维护法国和欧洲主权。（2）共和人党（Les Républicains，简称LR）主要反对党和参议院第一大党，属中右政党原人民运动联盟党，2015年5月更名共和人党。前身系2002年总统大选中的竞选联盟，核心为原保卫共和联盟（戴党），并吸收了自由民主党和法兰西民主联盟的主要力量。党员多为职员、官员、自由职业者、商人、农民和工人等。现任党主席为埃里克·乔蒂（Eric Ciotti），2022年12月11日当选。经济上遵循自由主义路线，主张减轻企业税负，增强市场活力；安全上主张加强安全保障，保持社会秩序，严厉打击恐怖主义；社会政策上主张适度收紧移民政策，强调法兰西身份认同。（3）社会党（Parti socialiste，简称PS）反对党，左翼政党前身是1905年成立的“工人国际法国支部”，1920年发生分裂，多数派另组共产党，少数派则保留原名。1969年改组成立社会党，1971年与其他左翼组织合并，仍用现名。现任党首为奥利维耶·富尔（Olivier Faure）。该党对内注意体现左翼政党色彩，主张维护劳工利益，同时采取务实的经济政策；对外主张维护法国独立核力量，推动欧洲一体化建设，并加强南北对话。（4）国民联盟（Rassemblement national，简称RN）极右翼政党原名“国民阵线”（Front National），2018年6月1日正式更名“国民联盟”。成立于1972年10月。1986年议会选举中首次进入国民议会。主张重振法大国地位、实现防务自主、加强边境管控、优先保障法国公民福利、加强法语和法国传统历史文化教育等。（5）不屈的法兰西（La France insoumise）极左翼政党成立于2016年2月。创始人兼主席为法国左翼政治家让-吕克·梅朗雄（Jean-Luc Mélenchon）。宣扬以公平、公正、开放、包容等理念为核心的左翼传统价值观和政策主张。反对经济自由化政策，主张“彻底政治变革”。呼吁通过公投制定新宪法，建立第六共和国，号召民众发起“公民革命”，“用选票将执政者扫地出门”。（6）民主与独立派联盟（Union des Démocrates et Indépendants，简称UDI）中间派政党成立于2012年9月。现任主席埃尔韦·马赛（Hervé Marseille），2022年当选。该党定位为“开放、富有建设性的反对派”，“平和、可信的替代力量”，欧洲一体化建设、绿色增长和经济竞争力是其首要关切，提出建设“人性化的自由主义”。（7）法国共产党（Parti communiste français，简称PCF）1920年12月成立。二战后初期达到顶峰，最多时拥有党员80多万，曾是法第一大党。其他政党有：中间派：民主运动（Mouvement démocrate）、我们公民（Nous Citoyens）、共和人民联盟（Union populaire républicaine）、远景党(Horizons)等。右翼：法兰西站起来（Debout la France）、法兰西运动（Mouvement pour la France）、基督教民主党（Parti chrétien-démocrate）、团结共和党（République solidaire）等。左翼：共和与公民运动（Mouvement républicain et citoyen）、欧洲生态-绿党（Europe Ecologie les Verts）、进步主义者运动（Mouvement des progressistes）等。极右：全国共和运动（Mouvement national républicain）、南方联盟（Ligue du Sud）、土地和人民（Terre et Peuple）等。极左：工人斗争党（Lutte Ouvrière）、左翼阵线（Front de Gauche）、独立工人党（Parti ouvrier indépendant）、法国工人共产党（Parti communiste des ouvriers de France）等。 [1]政要埃马纽埃尔·马克龙埃马纽埃尔·马克龙：总统。1977年12月21日生于法国亚眠鲁昂。毕业于巴黎第十大学、巴黎政治学院和法国国家行政学院。曾历任奥朗德总统经济顾问，总统府秘书长，经济、工业和数字部长。2016年组建政治团体“前进”运动，并以独立候选人身份参加总统大选。2017年5月7日当选法兰西共和国第八位暨第十一任总统。5月14日正式就任。2022年4月24日连任，系希拉克以后首位成功连任的法国总统。5月7日就职。 [1]加布里埃尔·阿塔尔（男）：总理，1989年3月出生，先后就读于巴黎二大、巴黎政治学院。2016年加入马克龙成立的“前进运动”，2017年任国民议会成员，2018年任执政党发言人，2018年至2020年任教育与青年部国务秘书，2020至2022年任政府发言人。2022年马克龙连任后，担任公共账务部长级代表，2023年7月起担任教育与青年部长。2024年1月9日，法国总统马克龙任命加布里埃尔·阿塔尔为总理。 [1] [21-22]经济播报编辑综述法国是最发达的工业国家之一，在核电、航空、航天和铁路方面居世界领先地位。根据法国国家统计和经济研究所数据，2023年法经济增长率为0.8%。农业法国是欧盟最大的农业生产国，也是世界主要农产品和农业食品出口国。据法国国家统计局资料：2023年农业产值955亿欧元（不含产品补贴），同比增长2.9％。本土农业用地2670万公顷（2022年）。2021年，农业人口60万。农业的传统地区结构为：中北部地区是谷物、油料、蔬菜、甜菜的主产区，西部和山区为饲料作物主产区，地中海沿岸和西南部地区为多年生作物（葡萄、水果）的主产区。法国已基本实现农业机械化，农业生产率很高。农业食品加工业是法国对外贸易的支柱产业之一。工业法国是最发达的工业国家之一。2022年法国工业产值2740亿欧元，约占国内生产总值的13.5%。主要工业部门有汽车制造、造船、机械、纺织、化学、电子、日常消费品、食品加工和建筑业等，钢铁、汽车和建筑业为三大工业支柱。核能、石油化工、海洋开发、航空和宇航等新兴工业部门近年来发展较快。 [1]核能及能源工业法国是世界上第二大核能生产国，核电装机容量仅次于美国，现有56个运营核反应堆。主要能源企业有：道达尔石油公司（TOTAL）、法国电力公司（EDF）、法国燃气苏伊士公司（Engie）、欧安诺公司（Orano）、阿尔斯通公司（Alstom）。根据法国经财部公布数据，2019年，法国能源产品出口总值达189亿欧元，同比增长22%。航空航天工业法国航空航天工业世界领先。欧洲宇航防务集团（EADS）所属空中客车公司（Airbus）与美国波音公司并列为世界两大客机制造商。欧洲直升机集团（Eurocopter）是世界第一大直升机制造商。达索公司（Dassault）是世界主要军用飞机制造商之一。阿丽亚娜空间公司（Arianespace）在世界卫星发射市场占据重要位置。根据法国航空航天工业协会数据，2018年该行业总营业额达654亿欧元，同比增长1.2%。出口额440亿欧元，基本保持稳定，占总营业额的85%。民用飞机销售占总额（504亿欧元）的77%，军用飞机交付总额为150亿欧元。根据法国经财部公布数据，2019年航空器材出口630亿欧元，同比增长10.1%。汽车工业法国是世界第四大汽车出口国。主要公司有：标致雪铁龙（PSA）、雷诺（Renault），分别是世界第八和第十大汽车生产商。据法国AAA汽车市场统计数据，2019年，法国共销售私家汽车221.4万辆，同比增长1.9%。标致、雷诺、雪铁龙销量居前三位。2019年，法国国产汽车总销量达130.8万辆，电动汽车销量达4.3万辆，混合动力汽车销量达12.5万辆。化工、化妆品工业化工工业主要企业有：液化空气集团（Air Liquide）、罗地亚集团（Rhodia）和赫秦森集团（Hutchinson）。亚洲和美国市场的强劲需求是法国化工产业保持稳定增长的重要支撑。法国是全球最大的化妆品生产国之一，主要生产高端化妆品，拥有爱马仕、香奈儿、迪奥、兰蔻、欧莱雅等多个世界顶级化妆品品牌，根据法国经财部公布数据，2019年法国化工及化妆品出口总值达597亿欧元，同比增长2.2%。制药工业法国是欧洲第一大药品生产国，世界第三大药品出口国。主要企业有：赛诺菲—安万特集团（Sanofi-Aventis）、皮尔法伯公司（Pierre Fabre）、施维亚药厂（Servier）。2019年，法国医药产品出口总值达333亿欧元，同比增长9.2%。时装及高档商品加工该领域聚集了世界上高级时装制作、珠宝、首饰、高级皮革制品、香水、化妆品、水晶玻璃制品等企业。主要集团公司有：酩悦·轩尼诗-路易·威登集团（LVMH）、香奈儿（Chanel）、爱马仕（Hermès International）、迪奥（C.Dior）。金融政府财政收入主要来源于税收，税率高于美、日等国。主要税种有增值税、所得税、公司税、社会福利税等。据法国国家统计局数据：2022年，法国公共财政支出1.5361万亿欧元，财政收入1.4117万亿欧元，公共财政赤字为1245亿欧元，占国内生产总值的4.7％；截至2023年第三季度末，法国公共债务3.088万亿欧元，占国内生产总值的111.7％。根据法国经财部数据，截至2023年底，法国官方储备资产和其他外币资产总额为2231.67亿欧元。据法国央行数据：截至2021年，法共有注册金融机构769家。巴黎国民银行、兴业银行、农业信贷银行、里昂信贷等八大银行资产占全国银行总资产的一半以上。证券市场巴黎证券交易所是法国最大的证券交易所，也是泛欧交易所（Euronext）的重要组成部分。泛欧交易所是全球领先的纽约泛欧交易所集团（NYX）的全资子公司。巴黎证交所的经营范围包括股票、债券等。根据世界交易所联合会2019年发布的数据，泛欧交易所位列第六，市值3.9万亿美元。 [5]中央银行法兰西银行是法国的中央银行。作为中央银行，法兰西银行在法国银行体制中起着核心作用，承担以下职能：参与对银行金融活动的调节与监管，维护投资和存款安全，参与银行与金融机构委员会、信贷机构和投资企业委员会、银行委员会、国家证券与信贷委员会等金融机构的管理工作。欧元体系启动后，作为欧洲中央银行系统（ESCB）的成员，法兰西银行参与欧洲中央银行制定和实施欧元区单一货币政策，与其他成员国中央银行共同维护区内支付体系安全和正常运转，并负责在法国发行欧元硬币的工作。主要银行法国主要商业银行有：巴黎银行（BNP Paribas）、兴业银行（Société Générale）、农业信贷银行（Crédit Agricole）。主要外资银行有：汇丰银行（HSBC）、巴克莱银行（Barclays）、德意志银行（Deutsche Bank）、苏格兰皇家银行（RBS）、瑞银集团（UBS）。中资银行中国与法国在金融领域的合作不断深化。中国银行巴黎分行资产已超过30亿欧元，员工近百人；工商银行巴黎分行于2011年初正式开业，荣获法国2011年度最佳投资奖；中国进出口银行巴黎分行于2013年10月正式成立；建设银行巴黎分行2015年7月正式成立；交通银行巴黎分行2016年11月正式成立。中国银行巴黎分行（Bank of China Paris Branch）成立于1986年，下辖十三区支行，主要为当地及赴非洲投资的中资企业提供账户管理、国际结算、贸易融资等服务。保险公司法国主要保险公司包括法国国家人寿保险公司（CNP）、安盛集团（AXA），业务范围包括人寿保险、管理退休基金、财产保险等。复星集团收购的葡萄牙忠诚保险在法国设有分公司。货币法国的法定货币为欧元。1999年1月1日，法国和其他11个欧洲国家共同参与使用欧元，并在2002年初正式开始使用欧元硬币和纸币，完全取代之前的法国法郎。截至2022年4月，1欧元=6.9238人民币，1欧元=1.0881美元。服务业服务业在法国民经济和社会生活中占有举足轻重的地位，自20世纪70年代以来发展较快，连锁式经营相当发达，已扩展至零售、运输、房地产、旅馆、娱乐业等多种行业。据法国国家统计局数据，2021年第三产业用工2390万人，占总就业人口的79.9％。法国大型零售超市众多，拥有家乐福（Carrefour）、欧尚（Auchan）等世界著名品牌。 [1]旅游业法是全球旅游主要目的地之一。2022年接待国际旅客6660万人次，国际旅游收入约580亿欧元，位居世界第二。旅游业产值占国内生产总值的8%，直接、间接创造就业岗位200万个（法国外交部资料）。 [1]对外贸易法国与世界各大地区和100多个国家有贸易往来，世界第六大出口国。据法国经财部数据：2022年，货物出口贸易额5945亿欧元，同比增长18.5%，货物进口贸易额7581亿欧元，同比增长29.1%，贸易逆差1636亿欧元；服务出口贸易额3101亿欧元，同比增长21.9%，进口额2602亿欧元，同比增长19.4%，顺差499亿欧元。近年来，法国政府把促进出口作为带动经济增长的重要手段，在保持和扩大原有国际市场的同时，积极开发拉美、亚太等地区的市场。法国进口商品主要有能源和工业原料、设备等，出口商品主要有纺织品、药品、农食产品、化工产品和化妆品、航空航天产品、汽车、能源等。2022年，55.5%的法国货物出口在欧盟内部，主要货物出口伙伴为德国（803亿欧元）、意大利（542亿欧元）、美国（480亿欧元）、比利时（455亿欧元）；主要进口货物伙伴国为：德国（925亿欧元）、中国（777亿欧元）、比利时（687亿欧元）、美国（615亿欧元）。（资料来源：法国经财部） [1]对外投资据法国中央银行数据，截至2020年底，法国对外直接投资存量为1.26万亿欧元。根据法国家统计局数据，2022年法国对外投资456亿欧元。法国对外投资主要集中在欧盟成员国，对美国和石油输出国组织成员国、非洲、拉美的投资也较高，并以工业、能源、服务部门为主。大多数投资采用企业兼并或购买公司股份的形式。法国是中国在欧洲的第四大投资来源国，投资主要集中在能源、汽车、化工、轻工、食品等领域，大部分为生产型企业。法国在华投资涵盖电力、汽车、航空、通信、化工、水务、医药等各大领域，截至2021年10月，法国累计在华实际投资额194.6亿美元。外来投资近年来，外国对法国服务业和工业部门的投资加快，主要领域有机械、汽车、化工产品、钢铁、农产品、食品、服装等。根据法国央行数据，截至2021年底，外国对法直接投资存量8460亿欧元。根据法国家统计局数据，2022年外国对法投资346亿欧元。据法国商务投资署数据，2022年，法国吸引1725个外资项目，同比增加7％，美国为第一大投资来源国，其次为德国、英国、意大利，为欧洲最具投资吸引力国家。 [1]外国对法投资存量国别分布情况为：欧洲国家对法投资存量6709.38亿欧元，其中瑞士1042.02亿欧元、英国1007.64亿欧元、荷兰943亿欧元、德国860.65亿欧元、比利时583.7亿欧元、西班牙259.46亿欧元、意大利245.51亿欧元。北美对法投资存量为692.54亿欧元，其中美国对法投资存量588.3亿欧元。亚洲对法投资存量为365.14亿欧元，其中日本对法投资存量108.7亿欧元，中国32.63亿欧元。非洲对法直接投资存量为74.04亿欧元。中国对法投资据中国商务部统计，2020年中国对法国直接投资流量1.4亿美元；截至2020年末，中国对法国直接投资存量48.6亿美元。投资领域涵盖电子信息、电气设备、交通仓储、环保、航空航天、核能、食品、医药、化工、建材、物流等多个领域。巴黎大区是中资企业对法国投资的重点区域，55%的中资企业选择在巴黎大区开展投资合作。此外，罗纳—阿尔卑斯大区、普罗旺斯—阿尔卑斯—蓝色海岸大区、诺曼底大区也吸引了众多中资企业投资。 [6]对外援助2023年4月，经合组织公布了2022年全球官方发展援助初步数据，法国成为全球第四大援助国，官方发展援助占国民总收入的0.56%。资金使用的五大方向为卫生、教育、男女平等、气候与环境、改善脆弱性。非洲国家是法国官方发展援助的主要受援国，包括塞内加尔、乍得和马里等国。 [1]文化播报编辑文学巴黎歌剧院17世纪开始，法国的古典文学相继出现了莫里哀、司汤达、巴尔扎克、大仲马、维克多·雨果、福楼拜、小仲马、左拉、居伊·德·莫泊桑、罗曼·罗兰等文学巨匠。他们的许多作品成为世界文学的瑰宝。其中的《巴黎圣母院》、《红与黑》、《高老头》、《基督山伯爵》、《悲惨世界》和《约翰·克利斯朵夫》等，均为世界文学名著。 [3]侦探小说方面有莫里斯·勒布朗的《侠盗亚森罗平》和乔治·西姆农的《梅格雷探长》。艺术近现代，法国的艺术在继承传统的基础上颇有创新，不但出现了奥古斯特·罗丹这样的雕塑艺术大师，也出现了像莫奈和马蒂斯等印象派、野兽派的代表人物。阿维尼翁戏剧节由法国戏剧导演让·维拉尔于1947年创立。当时刚从二战阴影中走出的法国正在努力重建，戏剧节的宗旨就是为了推动法国文化艺术的复苏与发展，让高雅的戏剧艺术走出殿堂、走入民间。阿维尼翁戏剧节每年夏天在被联合国教科文组织列为世界文化遗产的法国南部小城阿维尼翁举行，已成为欧洲现代戏剧集中展示的大舞台。戛纳国际电影节是世界五大电影节之一，每年5月在法国东南部海滨小城戛纳举行，它是世界上最早、最大的国际电影节之一，为期两周左右。1956年最高奖为“金鸭奖”，1957年起改为“金棕榈奖”。 [3]节日法定假日为11天，包括1月1日元旦；复活节；5月1日劳动节；5月8日欧洲二战胜利纪念日；耶稣升天节；圣灵降临节；7月14日国庆节；8月15日圣母升天节；11月1日万圣节；11月11日一战停战日；12月25日圣诞节。每周六、日为公休假日。饮食法国菜法国菜注重新鲜、原味。法国菜选料广泛，主要偏好牛肉、禽类、海鲜、蔬菜等，特别是烤蜗牛、松露菌、蘑菇、龙虾、鹅肝、鱼子酱；在配料上，酒、橄榄油、鲜奶油以及各式香料是法国人的最爱。标准法式大餐的上菜顺序主要为冷盘菜、汤类、主菜和甜品。葡萄酒法国是全球最大葡萄酒生产国，也是全球最大葡萄酒消费市场。出产的葡萄酒举世闻名，波尔多、朗格多克、勃艮第，这些名酒产区都在法国。人均年消费量在53至55升左右。名人君主帝王查理二世查理大帝腓力四世路易十四拿破仑·波拿巴民族英雄贞德罗兰·加洛斯让·穆兰思想家、文学家伏尔泰让-雅克·卢梭罗曼·罗兰阿兰米歇尔·德·蒙田莫里哀维克多·雨果居斯塔夫·福楼拜居伊·德·莫泊桑奥诺雷·德·巴尔扎克司汤达亚历山大·仲马玛格丽特·杜拉斯安德烈·纪德爱弥尔·左拉阿尔贝·加缪阿纳托尔·法朗士让·拉辛乔治·桑皮埃尔·高乃依莫里亚克西蒙娜·德·波伏娃让-保罗·萨特泰奥菲尔·戈蒂耶夏多布里昂孟德斯鸠 [17]政治家夏尔·戴高乐乔治·让·蓬皮杜吉斯卡尔·德斯坦弗朗索瓦·密特朗宗教习俗法国64％的民众信奉天主教，28%的民众自称无宗教信仰。法国是穆斯林信徒、犹太教徒和佛教徒人数最多的欧洲国家。法国人讲求浪漫、宽容、健谈、幽默，追求自由、平等和法制。法国人在社交场合衣着整齐得体；与客人相见时一般以握手为礼，主人与自我介绍或被介绍过的客人一一握手，并报出自己的名字；亲朋好友之间相见习惯行亲面颊或贴面礼；与女士见面还可施吻手礼。军事播报编辑法国目前的国防体制是在1959年《国防组织法》基础上建立起来的。1958年宪法规定，总统是武装力量的最高统帅，只有总统本人有使用核打击力量的决定权，在其领导下的国防决策机构包括内阁会议、国防委员会、小范围国防委员会和高级国防委员会，其中内阁会议是最高决策机构，负责制定国防政策、任免将级军官，有权宣布总动员、发布戒严令和紧急状态令等。武装力量由陆、海、空三军和宪兵组成。根据法国国防部数据，2020年，法国总兵力205853人，后备役41162人（不含宪兵）。2023年国防预算为439亿欧元，占GDP的2%。国外驻军：海外驻军约3万人，其中约7150人部署在法国海外领地，约740人接受联合国指挥执行维和任务。法国在非洲、印度洋和太平洋等地区拥有军事基地及可使用机场、港口10余处。驻外部队的主要任务是：维护法国海外省和海外领地的主权独立、领土完整及安全利益；执行与法国签有双边军事合作协定国家的驻军任务；参加联合国维和部队。 [1]中法军事法国是最早同中国发展军事关系的西方国家。两国于1964年9月互派武官。1997年，中法两军建立防务战略对话机制，迄今已经进行16轮磋商，最近一次于2022年1月以视频方式举行。2003年，两军总参谋部建立年度磋商机制（我国军队改革后更名为“国防部工作对话”），迄今已举行17次工作会议。2004年3月，中法海军在黄海举行首次非传统安全领域联合军事演习。2007年9月，两军军舰互访期间，在各自海域进行联合搜救演习。2015年5月，法国海军“迪克斯莫德”号指挥舰和“阿克尼特”号护卫舰访问上海。2015年10月，法海军“葡月”号导弹护卫舰访问湛江，同中方开展海上实兵演练。2018年2月至3月，法国海军“葡月”号导弹护卫舰访问香港。 [6]交通播报编辑交通运输发达，水、陆、空运输均极为便利。铁路由国家铁路公司（SNCF）管理和运营。2021年，法国国家铁路网全长约28000公里，连接9750个市镇，服务的站点和车站超过3000个，是欧盟第二长的铁路网络。全国铁路网每天约有15000列商业火车运行，每日运送旅客500万人次，每日货运量约25万吨。 [1]法国跨国高速铁路于1990年正式开通，1994年欧洲之星直达伦敦；1996年泰利斯高速铁路连接巴黎和布鲁塞尔。除英国和比利时外，法国高速铁路已经连接德国、意大利、西班牙、瑞士、卢森堡等国。巴黎到慕尼黑只需6小时，巴黎到米兰只需4小时40分钟。公路法国公路网是世界最密集、欧盟国家中最长的，2021年法国公路网总长度超过110.5万公里，其中主要公路网2.12万公里（包括高速公路和国家公路）。法国公路网与意大利、西班牙、比利时、德国、卢森堡、瑞士等周边国家相连。 [1]水运法国内河航道总长14932公里，其中可通行1500吨级以上船舶的航道约1900公里。巴黎是主要内河港口。2020年，水路运输货物量65亿吨公里。主要海港有马赛港、勒阿弗尔港和敦刻尔克港。 [1]空运受新冠肺炎疫情持续影响，2022年,法国空运商业旅客1.74亿人次，较2019年下降18.8%，但较2021年增加91.8%，执行商业航班165.37万架次，较2019年下降16%，但较2021年增加47.6%。主要航空公司为法航，主要机场有巴黎戴高乐机场和奥利机场、尼斯机场等。2022年，巴黎的机场旅客数量8666万人，较2021年增加106.7%，较2019年减少19.8%。（资料来源：法国机场联盟） [1]公共交通巴黎交通十分方便。巴黎地铁历史悠久，有14条主线和2条支线，以及5条穿越巴黎的近郊快线（RER A、B、C、D、E线），站台总数达500多个。巴黎地铁线路图可以在每个地铁站内免费领取。巴黎公共汽车网络也十分密集，有50多条线路，站台达1700余个。巴黎还有18000辆左右出租汽车，400多个停靠站。出租车打表计价。建议乘客使用小面额现金支付车费，下车前索要收据，以备在车上遗失物品时寻回。巴黎市内地铁和公共汽车票通用。目前单张票价为1.9欧元，买十张票为16.90欧元，若在公共汽车上直接购票，单张票价为2欧元。另外还有巴黎一日旅游票（Mobilis）, 持票者在一天之内可任意乘坐地铁和公共汽车，但此票不适用于机场和航空公司专线车。如果在巴黎停留时间较长，可考虑购买周票，周票使用时间规定为每周一开始至周日止。一般行程超过两天，购买周票比较经济实惠。如果停留时间更长的话，还可购买月票。地铁站内和一些烟草店可购买地铁票。有些地铁站设有自动售票机，大的中转站内还有人工售票服务。 [9]社会播报编辑教育法国教育在20世纪50-60年代进行了两次重大改革，逐渐形成现今极具特点、复杂多样的教育体制。6-16岁为义务教育。公立小学和中学免收学费，免费提供小学和初中教材。高等学院除私立学校外，一般只缴纳少量注册费。初等教育学制5年，入学率100%。中等教育包括普通教育和职业技术教育两类。普通中等教育分为初中和高中两个阶段，学制7年各为4年和3年。中等职业技术教育近年来发展较快，主要包括技术高中、职业高中、艺徒培训中心、就业前教育适应班4种类型和层次。高等教育分为综合性大学、高等专业学院、高等技术学校和承担教学任务的科研教育机构4类。根据法国高等教育署数据，法拥有超过3500所公立和私立高等教育机构，包括72大学、25所大学社区、271所博士学院、227所工程学院、220所商业和管理学院、45所公共艺术学院、22所建筑学校和3000所私立学校。2022年高等教育和科研部预算246亿欧元。法著名高校有：巴黎大学、斯特拉斯堡大学、里尔大学、里昂大学以及巴黎综合理工学院、国家行政学院、巴黎政治学院、巴黎高等商业学院、巴黎高等师范学院、巴黎高等矿业学院等。中法教育交流中法双方签有教育交流与合作协议，定期举行磋商会议。中国是法国主要留学生来源国之一。2020-2021学年，在华学习的法国学生超过3000人。两国均有一批大学和中学设置教授对方语言的课程。中国电视台、电台开办法语教学节目。 [6]卫生法国医疗体系以公立医院为主。法国有超过3100家公立或私立医疗机构。无论哪一类型的医院，都纳入国家医疗保障体系，接受统一管理和认证。截至2020年，全法共有22.69万名医生（包括全科和专科），72.26万名护士、7.38万名药剂师、4.25万名牙医。平均每10万人拥有339位医生。2020年全法共有2983家医疗机构（公立医院1342家、非营利性私立医院667家、诊所974家），住院床位38.7万张，临时床位8万个。 [1]体育法国人喜爱体育运动，比较流行的体育运动项目有足球、网球、橄榄球、地滚球、帆船、游泳、滑雪、自行车等。 [3]足球是法国第一大运动，法国队曾获得1998年法国世界杯和2018年俄罗斯世界杯的冠军。2016年法国举办了第十五届欧洲足球锦标赛。法国足球甲级联赛是世界顶级的足球联赛之一。法国网球公开赛位列网球四大满贯，是ATP巡回赛中含金量最高的红土赛事。环法自行车赛是知名的世界自行车赛事，每年夏季在法国举行。世界极限运动——跑酷起源于法国。科技法国科技发展总体水平居世界前列，其科技优势和特长领域有：天文学、遗传学、神经系统、理论与应用数学、地球物理、地球化学、原子物理、军民用飞机、铁路及高速火车、空间技术及远程通讯、石油技术、核动力工程等。法国拥有科研人员41.2万人，其中有26万人为专业研究员，60%在企业中任职。法国有遍布全球的250多所研究机构，如法国国家科学研究院（CNRS）、法国农业发展研究中心（CIRAD）、法国国家农科院（INRA）等。法国政府对企业R&D的资助占企业R&D总投入的11%，在7国集团中最高，其对大型企业和中小企业的R&D税收减免力度在OECD国家中最大。中法科技交流两国签有科技交流合作协定、环境保护合作协定、和平利用核能合作协定、卫生和医学科学合作协定等。 [6]通信法国通信业发达，移动通信业务发展迅速。2020年，法国开通的手机SIM卡数量超过7700万张；电子通信业实现总营收352亿欧元，同比下降0.4%；完成投资143亿欧元，其中5G频谱拍卖总价近28亿欧元；互联网渗透率达89%，互联网用户约5800万人，其中手机互联网用户占82%，社交媒体活跃用户人数约3900万。截至2021年9月1日，法国本土累计批准建设5G基站数量28821个，已建成并具备运行条件的基站17559个，其中700兆赫频段（与4G信号共享的低频频段）11451个，3.4至3.8兆赫频段基站仅5812个，而SA模式5G基站仅为3个（但尚未商用）。媒体2020年全国共有各种报纸杂志6050种（法文化部数据），注册记者3.5万名。发行量最大的全国性报纸是《费加罗报》，2021年发行量约33.9万份，其他发行量较大的全国性报纸主要有《世界报》、《回声报》、《队报》等。发行量最大的地方报纸是《西部法兰西报》。主要杂志有《快报》、《观点》、《新观察家》、《巴黎竞赛画报》、《费加罗杂志》等。法约有1万家出版社（国家出版工会数据）。通讯社：法新社（AFP），世界主要通讯社之一。1835年创立，原名哈瓦斯通讯社，1944年8月改组并改用现名。1957年政府确定法新社的独立地位，但其财政管理仍由国家控制。在国外有260多家分社，约2400名员工，辐射151个国家，向全球约7000家报纸、2500家电台和400家电视台供稿。广播电台：法国国家广播公司成立于1975年，下设7个广播电台：国内综合台、新闻台、文化台、音乐台、蓝色台、巴黎联合广播电台、青年摇滚电台。此外，为加强对外宣传，国家广播公司专设独立的法国国际电台RFI，除了法语，以12种语言全天对外广播，几乎覆盖全世界。1982年政府通过法令，取消国家对电台的垄断，允许私人和团体设立电台。2017年，法国本土有1229家广播电台、其中9家为公立，1220家为私营。电视台：现有5家全国性国营电视台由法国电视台100%控股：法国2台、法国3台、法国4台、法国5台、CultureBox（文化频道），另有FranceInfo（资讯台）、TV5 Monde、Arte等频道。25家全国性私营台，包括法国1台、法国6台、CANAL+（收费台）等。几十家中央或地方的有线电视台，主要通过ADSL和TNT（数字地面电视）方式播出，另可接收大部分国际卫星电视频道。TV5和法国国际台France24是覆盖世界大部分地区的法国电视台。 [1]电力法国是世界上最早开发和使用电能的国家之一，拥有大量水电、风电、太阳能、地热、生物质能等可再生资源，是世界上重要的可再生能源生产和消费国家。法国能源主要依靠核能和水能。法国电力总装机容量约为1.1亿千瓦，其中核电装机6500万千瓦，占装机总容量的60%。与核能、水能等主要资源相比，风电和光伏太阳能装机容量相对较低，分别为700万千瓦和300万千瓦。法国年均发电量约为580亿千瓦时，其中近72.3%的发电量来自核电。2019年，法国发电总量达到537.7亿千瓦时，电力消费总量达到474亿千瓦时。2019年法国电力出口顺差为55.7亿千瓦时。2020年4月，法国政府推出的能源转型行动时间表显示，2035年法国的核电比例将降至50%民生法国是高福利国家。社会保险制度始建于1945年，现已发展得较为完善。2021年社会保障总支出5641亿欧元。资金主要来源于雇员和雇主交纳的社会分摊金以及对工资外收入征收的普通社会税金，保障范围涵盖退休金、养老金、医疗保险费、家庭津贴、待业金（失业补助和职业培训费）、残疾人补助等。法国长期实行最低标准工资制度，2024年1月1日起最低工资为每小时11.65欧元,即每月1766.92欧元（每周35小时工作）。2020年，法国境内住房月租金平均价格约633欧元，平均面积约46平方米。月租金排名前十的法国城市分别是：巴黎、尼斯、里尔、里昂、波尔多、斯特拉斯堡、南特、马赛、图卢兹、雷恩。截至2020年1月1日，法国58%的家庭拥有自己的产权房，法国本土共有3700万套住房。法汽车、手机、个人电脑、互联网等普及率居世界前列。 [1]治安法国总体社会治安状况良好，警方对社会治安防控能力较强，城市地区的街头犯罪、暴力犯罪相对较少。农村地区社会治安工作由宪兵负责。近两年法国的犯罪率显著攀升，越来越多的法国人认为缺乏安全感。法国法律允许个人持有合法注册的枪械。近年来，法国已成为极端组织袭击的重要目标。外交播报编辑外交政策法国外交具有独立自主、积极进取的鲜明特色。在重大外交问题上敢于坚持原则和自身立场。善用联合国等国际组织和多边机构，积极介入国际和地区热点问题并努力发挥独特作用。马克龙上任以来，外交政策向戴高乐主义传统回摆，日渐成熟清晰。主要特点有：坚持独立自主、多边主义、欧洲振兴三大理念，以维护国家安全稳定、捍卫主权独立、提升国际影响力为三大任务，优先实施大国平衡、欧洲主权、周边伙伴、多边主义、外交创新战略。2022年上半年担任欧盟轮值主席国。 [1]对外关系法国是联合国安理会常任理事国、欧盟创始国及北约成员国；是联合国教科文组织、国际刑警组织、经合组织、欧洲议会等重要国际和地区组织总部所在地，同191个国家建立了外交关系，驻外机构数量居全球第三。（资料来源：法国外交部）在多边层面，法国力主构建平衡的大国关系框架，推出“印太轴心”战略，倡导欧洲走“第三条道路”，做中、美之外的第三大“平衡力量”。以气候变化、发展援助、全球治理规则等问题为重点，提升国际话语权。在欧盟层面，全力推进欧洲一体化建设，提出重塑欧盟构想，倡导改革欧元区机制，加快欧盟共同防务建设。继续积极介入乌克兰、叙利亚、利比亚、伊朗核、黎巴嫩等热点问题。 [1]2022年11月，英国与法国签署扩大合作的协议，以遏制英吉利海峡偷渡问题 [7-8]。2023年11月，乌兹别克斯坦总统米尔济约耶夫在乌第二大城市撒马尔罕与到访的法国总统马克龙举行会谈，双方同意将两国关系提升为战略伙伴关系。 [16]尼日尔2023年12月7月政权更迭后国内反法情绪高涨，法国驻尼日尔大使馆遇袭、大使遭驱逐。鉴于法国驻尼使馆无法开展外交工作，法方最近给当地雇员的信件及知情人士说法显示，法国打算无限期关闭驻尼使馆。路透社2023年12月21日，援引法国驻尼使馆的信件报道上述消息。这封落款为19日的信件写道，法国使馆的外交工作受到尼日尔政变当局限制，法方因而决定无限期关闭驻尼使馆。 [19]当地时间2023年12月26日，阿塞拜疆外交部宣布，法国驻阿塞拜疆大使馆的2名外交人员为不受欢迎的人，并要求相关人员在48小时内离境。 [20]2024年3月7日，摩尔多瓦与法国签署防务合作协议，法国总统马克龙说，法国将在摩尔多瓦建立常设防卫代表处。 [23]中法关系法国是第一个同中国正式建交的西方大国。1964年1月27日，中法两国建立大使级外交关系。建交后，两国关系总体发展顺利。90年代初，中法关系因法国政府参与西方对华制裁并批准售台武器一度受到严重影响。1994年1月12日，两国政府发表联合公报，法方承诺不再批准法国企业参与武装台湾，双边关系恢复正常。两国在政治、经济、文化、科技、教育等各个领域的合作富有成果。1997年和2004年，法国在西方大国中率先同我国建立全面伙伴关系和全面战略伙伴关系。2008年，中法关系因涉藏问题出现重大波折。2009年4月1日，中法发表新闻公报，中法关系逐步恢复良好发展势头，各领域合作进展顺利。奥朗德担任总统期间，积极主动发展对华关系，两国政治互信加强，双边关系实现高水平稳定健康发展。马克龙当选总统后，总体延续前任对华政策方针，把发展对华关系作为外交重点之一，积极推进对华合作。2018年1月，马克龙对我国进行首次国事访问。习近平主席同其就全面提升中法全面战略伙伴关系水平达成重要共识。 [6]法国是中国在欧盟内第三大贸易伙伴和第三大实际投资来源国。中国是法国亚洲第一大、全球第七大贸易伙伴。2022年，中法双边贸易额812.28亿美元、同比下降4.4％，其中中方出口额456.63亿美元、同比下降0.5％，进口额355.65亿美元、同比下降9％。2023年1-11月，中法双边贸易额719.34亿美元、同比下降2%，其中中方出口额378.47亿美元，同比下降9.9%，进口额340.87亿美元、同比增长8.6%。两国设有政府文化混合委员会。2002年11月，双方签署了两国政府关于互设文化中心及其地位的协定，巴黎中国文化中心同月在法揭牌，2004年10月法国文化中心在北京正式揭牌。中法两国文化交流活跃。2003年至2005年中法互办文化年活动。2014年，为纪念两国建交50周年，双方全年共举办800多项活动。其中在北京举办的法国“名馆、名家、名作”、法国机械龙马巡游、罗丹雕塑回顾展，在巴黎举办的中国汉代文物展、“中国之夜”晚会等活动反响热烈。2016年4月，双方正式启动“千人实习生计划”，每年最多互派1000名青年到对方国家企业实习。2019年，为庆祝中法建交55周年，双方举办了一系列丰富多彩的文化庆祝活动。《摇滚莫扎特》、《巴黎圣母院》等法国经典音乐剧先后来华巡演，中国美术馆举办“法兰西艺术学院雕塑展”，法国国立巴黎毕加索博物馆在北京举办“毕加索——一位天才的诞生”展览。2024年1月5日，中法文化旅游年开幕式在哈尔滨举行。　2019年，中国是法国在亚洲的最大游客来源国，法国是最受中国游客欢迎的欧盟国家。2019年，中国公民出境游首站赴法73.56万人次，法国公民访华49.10万人次。2023年10月，中国驻巴黎旅游办事处在巴黎国际旅游专业展设立中国展台，并首次推出“你好！中国”旅游推广标识。2023年3月15日起，中国旅行社及在线旅游企业恢复经营中国公民赴法国团队旅游业务。2023年12月1日起,中国对法国持普通护照人员来华经商、旅游观光、探亲访友和过境，试行15天内单方面入境免签政策。2023年1至9月，中国公民首站访法18.64万人次，法国公民访华10.18万人次。截至目前，两国间已有友好城市和省区111对。2023年11月24日，外交部发言人毛宁宣布，为便利中外人员往来服务高质量发展和高水平对外开放，中方决定试行扩大单方面免签国家范围，对法国持普通护照人员实行单方面免签政策。 [18]旅游播报编辑主要景点巴黎卢浮宫巴黎凯旋门（L'Arc de triomphe de Paris）埃菲尔铁塔（Tour Eiffel）巴黎圣母院（Notre - Dame de Paris）卢浮宫（Le Louvre）香榭丽舍大街（Champs - Elysées）巴黎协和广场（Place de la concorde à Paris）先贤祠（Temple ancestral）巴士底狱遗址（Place de la Bastille）凡尔赛宫（Palace of Versailles）乔治·蓬皮杜国家艺术文化中心（Centre national des arts et de la culture Georges Pompidou）枫丹白露宫（Fontainebleau Palace）戴高乐广场（Place de Gaulle）巴黎歌剧院（Opéra de Paris）塞纳河（La seine）戛纳（Cannes）里昂（leon）亚眠大教堂（Katedra Amiens）阿尔卑斯山勃朗峰（Mont Blanc）文化遗址序号名称类型1沙特尔大教堂世界文化遗产（1979年）2圣米歇尔山及其海湾世界文化遗产（1979年）3凡尔赛宫及其园林世界文化遗产（1979年）4韦泽尔峡谷史前遗迹与岩画洞穴群世界文化遗产（1979年）5韦兹莱教堂和山丘世界文化遗产（1979年）6亚眠大教堂世界文化遗产（1981年）7阿尔勒的古罗马和罗马式古迹世界文化遗产（1981年）8丰特莱的熙笃会修道院世界文化遗产（1981年）9枫丹白露的宫殿和园林世界文化遗产（1981年）10奥朗日的古罗马剧场及其周边建筑和凯旋门世界文化遗产（1981年）11从萨兰-莱班大盐场到阿尔克-塞南皇家盐场，敞锅盐的制备世界文化遗产（1982年入选，2009年扩展范围）12加尔唐普河畔圣萨文修道院教堂世界文化遗产（1983年）13波尔托湾：皮亚纳的窄狭湾，基罗拉塔湾，斯康多拉保护区世界文化遗产（1983年）14南锡的斯坦尼斯拉斯广场、卡里埃勒广场和阿莱昂斯广场世界文化遗产（1983年）15加尔桥（古罗马输水道）世界文化遗产（1985年）16斯特拉斯堡-大岛世界文化遗产（1988年）17兰斯的圣母大教堂，原圣勒弥修道院和塔乌宫世界文化遗产（1991年）18巴黎塞纳河畔世界文化遗产（1991年）19布尔日大教堂世界文化遗产（1992年）20阿维尼翁：教皇宫，主教圣堂和阿维尼翁桥世界文化遗产（1995年）21米迪运河世界文化遗产（1996年）22卡尔卡松历史要塞城堡世界文化遗产（1997年）23比利牛斯-珀杜山世界文化与自然双遗产（1997年，1999年扩展范围，与西班牙共有）24里昂的历史遗迹世界文化遗产（1998年）25法国圣地亚哥-德孔波斯特拉朝圣之路世界文化遗产（1998年）26比利时和法国的钟楼世界文化遗产比利时佛兰德地区和瓦隆地区的钟楼（共30处，1999年）-法国北部的钟楼（共23处，2005年）、比利时让布卢的钟楼（2005年）（1999年，2005年扩展范围，与比利时共有）27从卢瓦尔河畔的叙利至沙洛纳之间的卢瓦尔河谷世界文化遗产（2000年）28普罗万中世纪古镇世界文化遗产（2001年）29勒阿弗尔，奥古斯特·佩雷重建之城世界文化遗产（2005年）30波尔多，月亮港世界文化遗产（2007年）31沃邦设计的堡垒建筑世界文化遗产（2008年）32新喀里多尼亚泻湖：珊瑚礁多样性和相关生态系统世界自然遗产（2008年）33阿尔比主教城世界文化遗产（2010年）34留尼汪岛的火山峰、冰斗和峭壁世界自然遗产（2010年）35阿尔卑斯山周围的史前湖岸木桩建筑世界文化遗产（2011年，与瑞士、奥地利、意大利、德国、斯洛文尼亚共有）36喀斯和塞文，地中海农牧文化景观世界文化遗产（2011年）37北部-加来海峡的采矿盆地世界文化遗产（2012年）38阿尔代什省的肖维-蓬达尔克彩绘洞穴世界文化遗产（2014年）39香槟地区的山坡葡萄园、酒庄与酒窖世界文化遗产（2015年）40勃艮第葡萄园风土世界文化遗产（2015年）41勒·柯布西耶的建筑作品-对现代主义运动有杰出贡献世界文化遗产（2016年）42塔普塔普阿泰考古遗址世界文化遗产（2016年）43多姆山链-利马涅断层构造区世界自然遗产（2018年）43法属南部领地和领海世界自然遗产（2019年）新手上路成长任务编辑入门编辑规则本人编辑我有疑问内容质疑在线客服官方贴吧意见反馈投诉建议举报不良信息未通过词条申诉投诉侵权信息封禁查询与解封©2024 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France country guide - Lonely Planet | Europe

ce country guide - Lonely Planet | EuropeSearch My trips Saves eLibraryAccount settingsSign outDestinationsBest in TravelFeaturedAfricaAntarcticaAsiaCaribbean IslandsCentral AmericaEuropeMiddle EastNorth AmericaPacificSouth AmericaSee all DestinationsPlanningTrip planning toolsFeaturedPlan with local expertsBudget your tripBook tours and activitiesSee all PlanningStoriesLonely Planet NewsletterFeaturedAdventure TravelArt and CultureBeaches, Coasts and IslandsFamily HolidaysFestivalsFood and DrinkHoneymoon and RomanceRoad TripsSustainable TravelTravel on a BudgetWildlife and NatureSee all StoriesShopNew Book ReleasesFeaturedDestination guidesPictorial & giftsPhrasebooksLonely Planet KidsSee all ShopFrance Back to topCACTUS Creative Studio / Stocksy UnitedFranceEuropeFrance seduces travelers with iconic landmarks and cafe terraces, epic history and bustling village life. Experiences - and cuisine - to be savored.Best Time to VisitBest Places to VisitLeave the planning to a local expertExperience the real France. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.Get startedAttractionsMust-see attractionsCité de l’EspaceToulouseThe fantastic space museum on the city's eastern outskirts brings Toulouse's illustrious aeronautical history to life through hands-on exhibits, including…Eiffel TowerParisThere are different ways to experience the Eiffel Tower, from a daytime trip or an evening ascent amid twinkling lights, to a meal in one of its…Centre PompidouParisHome to Europe's largest collection of modern and contemporary art, Centre Pompidou has amazed and delighted visitors ever since it opened in 1977, not…Château de ChenonceauTouraineSpanning the languid Cher River atop a graceful arched bridge, Chenonceau is one of France's most elegant châteaux. It's hard not to be moved and…Sainte-ChapelleParisVisit Sainte-Chapelle on a sunny day when Paris’ oldest, finest stained glass (1242–48) is at its dazzling best. The chapel is famous for its stained…Musée du LouvreParisIt isn’t until you’re standing in the vast courtyard of the Louvre, with its glass pyramid and ornate façade, that you can truly say you’ve been to Paris.Château de ChambordThe Loire ValleyIf you only have time to visit one château in the Loire, you might as well make it the grandest – and Chambord is the most lavish of them all, and the…Les CatacombesParisIt’s gruesome, ghoulish and downright spooky, but it never fails to captivate visitors. In 1785, the subterranean tunnels of an abandoned quarry were…View more attractionsView more attractionsAttractionsTop picks from our travel experts15 best things to do in France: the most unmissable experiences from Paris to Provence and beyondCurated by Catherine Le NevezMaison des MégalithesGolfe du MorbihanThe main information point for the Carnac alignments is the Maison des Mégalithes, 1km north of Carnac-Ville, which explores the history of the megalithic…Cathédrale Notre Dame de ParisParisWhile its interior is closed off to visitors following the devastating fire of April 2019, this masterpiece of French Gothic architecture remains the city…Avenue des Champs-ÉlyséesParisNo trip to Paris is complete without strolling this broad, tree-shaded avenue lined with luxury shops. Named for the Elysian Fields (‘heaven’ in Greek…Abbaye du Mont St-MichelMont St-MichelMont St-Michel's one main street, the Grande Rue, leads up the slope – past souvenir shops, eateries and a forest of elbows – to the star attraction of a…Musée de la LavandeThe LuberonTo get to grips with Provence’s most prestigious crop, this excellent eco-museum makes an ideal first stop. An audioguide and video (in English) explain…Carnac AlignmentsGolfe du MorbihanPredating Stonehenge by around 100 years, the Carnac (Garnag in Breton) area is the world's greatest concentration of megalithic sites, with no fewer than…Musée d’OrsaySt-Germain & Les InvalidesMusée d’Orsay may not be quite as famous as the Louvre—though it’s located a mere 10-minute walk away—but this Left Bank museum holds its own in its…Promenade des AnglaisNiceThe most famous stretch of seafront in Nice – if not France – is this vast paved promenade, which gets its name from the English expat patrons who paid…Parc Naturel Régional des Ballons des VosgesAlsaceHead away from the crowds and into the serene Parc Naturel Régional des Ballons des Vosges, 3000 sq km of pristine greenery in the western Vosges. In…Abbaye Notre-Dame de SénanqueThe LuberonIf you're searching for that classic postcard shot of the medieval abbey surrounded by a sea of purple lavender, look no further. This sublime Cistercian…Musée du LouvreParisIt isn’t until you’re standing in the vast courtyard of the Louvre, with its glass pyramid and ornate façade, that you can truly say you’ve been to Paris.Monastère Notre Dame de CimiezNicePainters Henri Matisse and Raoul Dufy are buried in the cemetery of this monastery, a five-minute walk across the park from the Musée Matisse. To reach…Musée LumièreLyonCinema's glorious beginnings are showcased at the art nouveau home of Antoine Lumière, who moved to Lyon with sons Auguste and Louis in 1870. The brothers…Cathédrale Notre-DameStrasbourgNothing prepares you for your first glimpse of Strasbourg's Cathédrale Notre-Dame, completed in all its Gothic grandeur in 1439. The lace-fine facade…Hôtel des InvalidesSt-Germain & Les InvalidesFlanked by the 500m-long Esplanade des Invalides lawns, Hôtel des Invalides was built in the 1670s by Louis XIV to house 4000 invalides (disabled war…Pont du GardLanguedoc-RoussillonThe extraordinary three-tiered Pont du Gard was once part of a 50km-long system of channels built around 19 BC to transport water from Uzès to Nîmes. The…Château de VersaillesVersaillesAmid magnificently landscaped formal gardens, this splendid and enormous palace was built in the mid-17th century during the reign of Louis XIV – the Roi…Hôtel de VilleLe Marais, Ménilmontant & BellevilleParis’ beautiful town hall was gutted during the Paris Commune of 1871 and rebuilt in luxurious neo-Renaissance style between 1874 and 1882. The ornate…Jardin des PlantesLatin QuarterFounded in 1626 as a medicinal herb garden for Louis XIII, Paris’ 24-hectare botanic gardens – visually defined by the double alley of plane trees that…Chapelle du RosaireCôte d'AzurAn ailing Henri Matisse moved to Vence in 1943 to be cared for by his former nurse and model, Monique Bourgeois, who'd since become a Dominican nun. She…Eiffel TowerParisThere are different ways to experience the Eiffel Tower, from a daytime trip or an evening ascent amid twinkling lights, to a meal in one of its…Phare de BiarritzBiarritzClimbing the 258 twisting steps inside the 73m-high Phare de Biarritz, the town’s 1834 lighthouse, rewards you with sweeping views of the Basque coast…Petite FranceStrasbourgCriss-crossed by narrow lanes, canals and locks, Petite France is where artisans plied their trades in the Middle Ages. The half-timbered houses,…Place de la ConcordeParisParis spreads around you, with views of the Eiffel Tower, the Seine and along the Champs-Élysées, when you stand in the city’s largest square. Its 3300…Musée MatisseNiceThis museum, 2km north of the city centre in the leafy Cimiez quarter, houses a fascinating assortment of works by Matisse, including oil paintings,…Planning ToolsExpert guidance to help you plan your tripBest Things to Do(Warning: this article will make you want to book a trip.)Read article Things to KnowHints, tips, cheats and little-known intel from our France local pulled together in one digestible list.

Read article TransportationFrom bike to bus and train to plane, here's everything you need to know about getting around in France.Read article Visa RequirementsFrom visa-free travel in the Schengen Zone to working holidays, here's everything you need to know about the visa requirements for France.Read article Money and CostsFrance is a country associated with luxury – yet it’s not hard to enjoy all its pleasures on a limited budget. If you read our guide, that is.Read article Traveling with KidsA Parisian break with children needn’t be a pain. Here’s our guide to traveling in France with children, whatever their age.Read article Best Road TripsHidden towns and rolling vineyards – France has it all on offer on a road trip. Explore this stunning country behind the wheel with our pick of the best.

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13 of the best places to visit in France - Lonely Planet

f the best places to visit in France - Lonely PlanetSearch My trips Saves eLibraryAccount settingsSign outDestinationsBest in TravelFeaturedAfricaAntarcticaAsiaCaribbean IslandsCentral AmericaEuropeMiddle EastNorth AmericaPacificSouth AmericaSee all DestinationsPlanningTrip planning toolsFeaturedPlan with local expertsBudget your tripBook tours and activitiesSee all PlanningStoriesLonely Planet NewsletterFeaturedAdventure TravelArt and CultureBeaches, Coasts and IslandsFamily HolidaysFestivalsFood and DrinkHoneymoon and RomanceRoad TripsSustainable TravelTravel on a BudgetWildlife and NatureSee all StoriesShopNew Book ReleasesFeaturedDestination guidesPictorial & giftsPhrasebooksLonely Planet KidsSee all ShopTravel StoriesFrance13 of the best places to visit in FranceLoginSave Mary NovakovichNov 25, 2023 • 7 min readHave you been to France if you haven't got a shot in the lavender fields of Provence? © iStock / Getty Images 13 of the best places to visit in FranceLoginSave Nov 25, 2023 • 7 min readBack to TopShareFrance consistently tops the list as the world’s most visited destination – and it doesn’t take much imagination to see why.

Its winning formula of captivating cities, awe-inspiring landscapes – including the Alps and the Pyrenees – an enviable coastline and some of the world’s best food and wine is hard to resist. Affordable public transportation and a sprawling network of motorways mean you can cover a lot of ground if you want to visit more than one region. But it’s just as tempting to stick to one place and enjoy the country's seductive lifestyle.

Wondering where to go in France? Have a look at these top destinations for some inspiration.

Paris is the center of France's art and culture © Hernandez & Sorokina / Stocksy United

1. Paris has great urban vibes

Much as you’d like to tick the main sights of Paris off your list – world-class art at the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, the Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Coeur – make time for some of its lesser-known attractions. Wander the atmospheric streets of the Marais – popping into the free Musée Carnavalet as well as Musée Picasso – before checking out the vintage shops of the 10th arrondissement. Make your way over to buzzing Belleville and take in fabulous views of Paris from Parc de Belleville. For full-on greenery in the city, follow the footpaths around the elegant 19th-century Parc des Buttes-Chaumont.

Local tip: For authentic local dining experiences, avoid restaurants that tout a menu touristique, or display a sample meal of plastic food on the pavement outside.

Read more: Where locals go on vacation in France

2. The Loire Valley's castles are best explored by bike

At some point, you’ll want to be on two wheels as you explore the gently rolling landscapes of the Loire Valley – especially as cycling is made so much easier thanks to the extensive Vélo Verte network of bike routes. Combine visiting vineyards with glimpses into lavish Renaissance life in the 42 sumptuous chateaux, particularly the fantastically elaborate Chateau de Chenonceau and the more intimate and romantic Chateau d’Azay-le-Rideau on its own island on the Indre tributary.

Local tip: Don't leave your bicycle locked up outside on the street overnight if you want to see it (or at least most of its parts) again. Some hotels offer enclosed bicycle parking.

Admire the striking coastal scenery near Normandy's Étretat © Raphael Rivest / Shutterstock

3. Normandy’s coast is the place to learn about WWII history

Normandy’s long coastline is packed with historical landmarks, the D-Day beaches being the most striking. It’s impossible not to be moved by the many poignant memorials, including the American cemetery at Omaha Beach and the Juno Beach Centre at Courseulles-sur-Mer. Head further east, and you end up in a 19th-century time capsule in the alluring resorts of Cabourg, Deauville, Trouville and Honfleur.

4. Strasbourg and Alsace’s wine routes are full of fairy-tale charm

Strasbourg is half-timbered heaven, with an outrageously picturesque old town set on its own island on the River Ill. Wander round its imposing Cathédrale Notre-Dame before relaxing on one of the cafe terraces in little Place du Marché Gayot just behind. The city is an excellent starting point for a tour of the Alsace Wine Route, the oldest in France. Beer drinkers aren’t left out: Alsace is the only region in France that makes wine and beer.

Bonnieux is one of the many wonderful villages to visit in the Luberon © Getty Images

5. The Luberon in Provence has many lovely hilltop villages

Terracotta rooftops and honey-colored stone cottages tumble down pine-clad hills, while vineyards crisscross the valleys with olive groves and lavender fields. That’s when you know you’re in Provence, specifically the wonderfully mellow Luberon. Wander from village to hilltop village and lose yourself in the medieval lanes of some of the most gorgeous places in France. Put Bonnieux, Gordes, Ménerbes, Roussillon and Saignon on your list just for starters.

Local tip: Buy a baguette from the boulangerie (bakery) and fill it with Camembert, pâté or charcuterie (cold meats). Finish sweet with macarons, buttery kouign amann (Breton butter cake) or cherries in summer.

6. Mont-St-Michel is a top destination for medieval history buffs

The 10th-century Benedictine abbey at Mont-St-Michel casts its spell even before you arrive. The walk to this tidal island takes at least 20 minutes, during which you have this magnificent abbey, monastery and snail-like spiral of village houses in your sights. You certainly won’t tire of that view. Once you’ve explored the gothic interiors, take your pick from one of the panoramic restaurants circling the island.

Climb Europe's tallest sand dune at the Dune du Pilat © Philip Lange / Shutterstock

7. Dune du Pilat is France's most scenic place to camp

Soaring more than 100m (328ft) above sea level, the otherworldly Dune du Pilat is Europe’s tallest sand dune. Sheltered by the Arguin sandbank, its waters are much gentler than further up the Atlantic coast on the western side of Cap Ferret. It’s ringed with campsites, giving you not only one of the loveliest views but also utterly mesmerizing sunsets. When you’re not running up the mountain of sand, you’ll be transfixed by the antics of the paragliders who rarely leave this place.

Local tip: There is a large car park about 400 meters (437 yards) from the dune, which charges a small fee for parking. However, you cannot park here overnight without being fined €50.

8. Lyon is a top food destination

Even Parisians have to admit that Lyon is gastronomic royalty in France. Bring a big appetite to do justice to eating in Lyon’s trademark bouchons, intimate little bistros that specialize in hearty meat-heavy lyonnaise cuisine. Start your bouchon tour in the UNESCO-listed Renaissance lanes of Vieux Lyon, where you can also spot the old secret passageways known as traboules.

Celebrate wine in Bordeaux and beyond © iStockphoto / Getty Image

9. Bordeaux is the best place to go for wine lovers

Mixing easy elegance with liveliness, France’s wine capital hums with the sounds of people enjoying themselves in Bordeaux’s cafe-filled 18th-century lanes of Saint-Pierre and Place du Parlement. Take the pleasant, pedestrianized path along the River Garonne to La Cité du Vin, whose audacious design holds a thoroughly enjoyable museum celebrating wine from Bordeaux and beyond.

Local tip: Dress up when dining out, even at mid-range restaurants, clubs and bars. Leave the jeans and sneakers in your suitcase (unless you're at the local village bar where a more casual style is fine).

10. Annecy has the best Alpine beauty

On the doorstep of the French Alps, Annecy is another one of those sigh-inducing gorgeous cities that France does so well. Its medieval heart squeezes into gaps between the Thiou River and Canal, with tall pastel-colored townhouses towering over the quayside cafes. You can’t miss the Vieille Ville’s most distinctive landmark, Palais de l’Île, a medieval castle and former prison that’s now a museum. Your wanderings will inevitably take you to the glorious shores of Lake Annecy, one of France’s most beautiful.

11. Biarritz and Basque Country is packed with boho chic

Royalty has been flocking to Biarritz for more than two centuries since Napoleon III’s mother, Queen Hortense, fell in love with this fishing village on the Atlantic coast. Then the surfers joined in from the 1950s onward, bringing some laid-back cool to go with Biarritz’s superb beaches. Once you’ve had a swim in the Grande Plage and Plage de la Côte des Basques, check out the Basque Country coastal towns of Bayonne and St-Jean-de-Luz before heading into the Pyrenees.

12. Nice is a vibrant taste of life on the Mediterranean

The sun-drenched capital of the Côte d’Azur is everything you want in a Mediterranean city, and then some. Explore the labyrinthine lanes of Vieux Nice, with an obligatory trawl through the morning food market at Cours Saleya before taking in the views from the top of Colline du Chateau. Chill out on one of Nice’s many beaches before getting a culture fix at the Chagall and Matisse museums. Hop on one of the most scenic train lines in Europe and pop into the attractive coastal villages of Villefranche-sur-Mer and Èze.

Planning tip: If you're heading to the Côte d’Azur in May, book time to get over to star-studded Cannes for Europe's biggest cinema extravaganza. Every evening from 9:30pm, the Cinéma de la Plage provides free open-air screenings on the beachfront.

Go hiking or biking through the Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d’Auvergne © Getty Images

13. Auvergne has a captivating natural landscape

The lush volcanic landscape of the Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d’Auvergne is one of the most dramatic in France. Among its four volcanic massifs, the green-covered lava domes, cinder cones and craters of the Chaîne des Puys – more than 80 volcanoes – are a dream to explore on foot, on two wheels or from an exhilarating paraglide flight.

Local tip: If you're traveling with children, head to the surprisingly educative Vulcania theme park and learn about Auvergne's long-extinct volcanoes.

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Geography of Metropolitan France

Metropolitan France, often called Mainland France, lies in Western Europe and covers a total area of approximately 543,940 km2 (210,020 mi2). To the northeast, it borders Belgium and Luxembourg. Germany, Switzerland, and Italy lie to the east, while to the southeast, Monaco and the Mediterranean Sea frame its contours. Spain rests to the southwest, and Andorra tucks between them. The Bay of Biscay flanks its western edge, and the English Channel, which separates it from the United Kingdom, defines its northwestern coastline; both the channel and the bay are extensions of the Atlantic Ocean.

Due to its large area, the geographic regions of Metropolitan France vary in number depending on the source, and descriptions tend to overlap with cultural and administrative regions. These are the 15 most apparent and distinguishable regions in Metropolitan France, followed by an overview of the geography of primary Overseas France territories.

Note: The French Republic in total is 663,336 km2 (256,115 mi2), if excluding the disputed status of Adélie Land.

The North European Plain: The North European Plain stretches across the northernmost region of France before extending northeastwards through Belgium, the Netherlands, northern Germany, and into Russia. In France, this area is characterized by its lowland topography and fertile soils. These soils have made the region one of the most agriculturally productive areas in Europe. The Seine River flows through this plain, playing a vital role in the transportation and drainage of the region.

The Paris Basin: The Paris Basin, geologically an oval-shaped synclinal depression, is largely situated in the northern-central part of France, and it is similarto the North European Plain in both topography and location. This sedimentary basin consists of a series of layered rock formations laid down over millions of years. The region's topography is mostly flat with gentle rolling hills. Limestone and chalk deposits are prominent, which have influenced both the physical landscape and the economic activities, notably agriculture, with grain crops being predominant.

Massif Central: The Massif Central covers approximately one-sixth of the land area of France. It is a highland region composed mainly of granitic and metamorphic rocks, though volcanic landforms are also present, particularly in the western part. The landscape is shaped by a combination of erosion, volcanic activity, and glaciation. It features plateaus, deep valleys, and rugged terrain. Several rivers, including the Loire and the Dordogne, originate here.

The Loire Valley: The Loire Valley, stretching along the Loire River, is one of the major river valleys in France. This region is predominantly flat, in spite of its position within the Massif Central, with fertile soils due to sediment deposition from the river over time. It's known for its significant agricultural activity, especially viticulture. The region's geological evolution has resulted in a series of terraces alongside the river, which have influenced settlement and land-use patterns.

The French Alps: Located in the southeastern part of the country, the French Alps are a segment of the larger Alpine mountain range that stretches across Central Europe. They are characterized by high mountain peaks, with Mont Blanc being the tallest peak in Western Europe at 4,807 m (15,770 ft) (marked on the map above).. Glaciation has been significant in shaping the landscape, resulting in U-shaped valleys, moraines, and large lakes, such as Lake Geneva. The region also comprises important river systems, notably the Rhône.

The Jura Mountains: Positioned to the north of the Alps and extending along the France-Switzerland border, the Jura Mountains are a series of sub-parallel ridges made predominantly of limestone. Karst topography, with features such as sinkholes and underground caves, is prevalent due to the soluble nature of limestone. The region is characterized by its dense forests and relatively high annual rainfall.

The Vosges Mountains: Situated in northeastern France, the Vosges Mountains are primarily made up of granitic and sandstone rock. The range showcases rounded summits and a westward decline, which contrasts with the sharp ridges facing east, formed out of distinctive pink granite sandstone. These mountains are relatively low in altitude compared to the Alps, with the Grand Ballon being the highest peak.

Alsace Plain: In northeastern France, the Alsace Plain lies between the Vosges Mountains to the west and the Rhine River to the east. The region is characterized by its flat landscape, with a series of alluvial terraces and floodplains. Its geological history is linked closely to the Rhine Rift, a rift valley formed by tectonic activity. The region benefits from a semi-continental climate and is recognized for its agricultural activities, particularly in viticulture.

The Pyrenees: Forming a natural border between France and Spain, the Pyrenees mountain range extends from the Bay of Biscay in the west to the Mediterranean Sea in the east. Its composition includes a mix of granite and limestone, with significant glaciated areas. The range is divided into three sections: the Atlantic (or Western), Central, and Eastern Pyrenees. While the central section boasts the highest peaks, the eastern section is lower and less rugged.

The Garonne Basin: This basin surrounds the Garonne River, which flows from the Pyrenees and eventually merges with the Dordogne River to form the Gironde estuary, leading into the Atlantic Ocean. The region is characterized by alluvial plains and terraces, with fertile soils conducive to agriculture. Towards its southern parts, the landscape becomes hilly, transitioning into the foothills of the Pyrenees.

The French Riviera (Côte d'Azur): Located along the southeastern coast of France, the French Riviera, or Côte d'Azur, is a part of the Mediterranean coastline. It is characterized by its mild climate, influenced by the Mediterranean Sea, and its steep, hilly terrain, which rises abruptly from the coastline. The region's geography has played a role in making it a significant maritime area. The presence of the Maritime Alps to the north provides a protective barrier, creating a microclimate conducive to vegetation, such as the iconic maritime pines.

Brittany Peninsula: The Brittany Peninsula protrudes westward into the Atlantic Ocean. It is characterized by a varying coastline, with numerous bays and inlets. The interior landscape comprises moorland, hills, and plateaus. Brittany is underlain by a large base of ancient rocks, which results in poor soils. Notably, the region has a significant maritime influence, manifesting in its climate and the physical formation of its coastal features.

Landes Forest: In southwestern France, the Landes Forest is one of the largest man-made forests in Europe. Originally, this area was a vast wetland, but it has been transformed through human intervention and extensive pine plantation in an effort to stabilize the soils. The region's soils are sandy, having been shaped by the gradual accumulation of marine and wind-blown deposits.

Rhone Valley: This valley stretches along the Rhône River from its source in the Alps to its delta at the Mediterranean Sea. The northern part of the valley, surrounded by mountains and plateaus, is narrow, while the southern part expands into a broad floodplain. The region's geological foundation includes a mix of alluvial deposits, making some sections highly fertile and suitable for agriculture. As one moves south, the Mediterranean influence on the climate becomes increasingly apparent.

Corsica is a Mediterranean island situated southeast of the French mainland and west of the Italian Peninsula. It is characterized by a varied topography that includes mountains, plains, and a diverse coastline. The island's highest peak, Monte Cinto, rises 2,706 meters above sea level and is part of a mountain chain that runs north-south through the middle of Corsica. The region experiences a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, which contributes to its distinct flora and fauna. Rivers and streams crisscross the island, with the Golo River being the longest.

Rivers and Water Bodies: Beyond the Seine and Loire, France hosts other significant rivers including the Garonne, which drains into the Atlantic Ocean, and the Rhône, which flows into the Mediterranean. The country also has several lakes, such as Lake Geneva (shared with Switzerland) in the east and Lake Annecy in the southeast.

Geography of Overseas France

In general, Overseas France refers to the 13 territories outside the European continent that remain under French sovereignty. These five territories maintain the same administrative status as the French mainland, which distinguishes them from more autonomous collectives such as French Polynesia or New Caledonia. Furthermore, these dependencies span across several oceans and regions, accounting for an area of approximately 120,396 km2 (about 46,485 mi2).

French Guiana: Located in the northeastern part of South America, French Guiana shares borders with Brazil to the south and east, and Suriname to the west. Covering an area of 83,534 km2, it is primarily covered by tropical rainforests, part of the Amazon rainforest. The Maroni River forms the natural border with Suriname, and the Oyapock River forms the border with Brazil. French Guiana's topography is relatively flat but elevates towards the south with the Tumuc-Humac mountains. Coastal areas are characterized by marshy plains, while the inland region is dominated by the Guiana Shield, a plateau region of ancient rock.

Guadeloupe: Located in the Caribbean, Guadeloupe is an archipelago consisting of two main islands, Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre, and several smaller islands. Basse-Terre, the western island, has a rough volcanic landscape with La Grande Soufrière, an active stratovolcano, as its highest peak. In contrast, Grande-Terre, the eastern island, has flatter terrain with limestone plateaus and sugarcane fields. The climate is tropical, influenced by northeast trade winds, and the region faces risks from both hurricanes and volcanic activity.

Martinique: Also located in the Caribbean, Martinique is an island of volcanic origin. It has a rugged mountainous landscape with Mount Pelée as its highest peak. The island has experienced volcanic eruptions in its history, notably the devastating eruption of 1902 which destroyed the city of Saint-Pierre. Coastal areas feature a mix of cliffs, coves, and beaches, while the interior has dense forests. The tropical climate is moderated by trade winds, though the island is vulnerable to hurricane impacts.

Réunion: Found in the Indian Ocean to the east of Madagascar, Réunion is an island with diverse terrain. It is home to two prominent volcanic peaks: the extinct Piton des Neiges and the active Piton de la Fournaise, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. The island also contains three calderas and a series of ravines and gorges. The eastern part receives significant rainfall due to the trade winds, leading to lush vegetation, while the west is drier. This difference in rainfall has a significant impact on the island's geography, with the wetter east being more prone to landslides and erosion.

Mayotte: Mayotte, located in the Comoros archipelago in the Indian Ocean between Madagascar and the coast of Mozambique, comprises two main islands: Grande-Terre (while identically named, it is wholly separate from Grande-Terre of Guadaloupe) and Petite-Terre. The region is surrounded by coral reefs and lagoons. It has a hilly landscape with the highest peak, Mount Benara, reaching 660 meters. Volcanic activity has played a significant role in shaping the geography of Mayotte, though no eruptions have been recorded in recent history. The region has experienced seismic activity in recent years, with a notable underwater volcano discovered off its coast in 2019.

Regions of France Map

France (officially, the French Republic) is divided into 18 integral administrative regions (regions, singular - region). In alphabetical order, the regions are: Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes, Bretagne (Brittany), Bourgogne-Franche-Comte (Burgundy-Free County), Corse (Corsica), Centre-Val de Loire (Center-Loire Valley), Grand Est (Grand East), Hauts-de-France (Upper France), Ile-de-France, Nouvelle-Aquitaine (New Aquitaine), Normandie (Normandy), Occitanie (Occitania), Pays de la Loire (Lands of the Loire) and Provence-Alpes-Coted’Azur. These 13 regions are located in Metropolitan France in the European continent. The 5 overseas regions are: Mayotte and Reunion in Indian Ocean off the African coast; Guyane (French Guiana) is in South America; Guadeloupe and Martinique in Antilles in the Carribean Sea.

Located in the north-central part of the country is Paris – the capital, the largest and the most populous France. It is a major administrative, cultural and commercial center of the country.

Where is France?

France is a country located in North Western Europe. It is geographically positioned both in the Northern and Eastern hemispheres of the Earth. France is bordered by 7 countries: by Belgium and Luxembourg in the northeast; by Germany, Switzerland and Italy in the east; and by Spain and Andorra in the south. It is also bounded by the Bay of Biscay (North Atlantic Ocean) in the west; by the English Channel in the northwest and by the Mediterranean Sea in the south. France also shares maritime borders with UK in the north.

[Locations of 5 overseas regions: French Guiana in Northern South America, between Brazil and Suriname, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean. Guadeloupe: Caribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, southeast of Puerto Rico. Martinique: Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and North Atlantic Ocean, north of Trinidad and Tobago. Mayotte: Southern Indian Ocean, island in the Mozambique Channel, about halfway between northern Madagascar and northern Mozambique. Reunion: Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar.]

Regional Maps: Map of Europe

Outline Map of France

The above blank map represents France, a country located in North Western Europe. The above map can be downloaded, printed and used for geographical educational purposes.

The above outline map represents France, a North Western European country. France is the 2nd largest and also one of the most geographically diverse countries in Europe.

Key Facts

Legal Name

French Republic

Flag

Capital City

Paris

48 52 N, 2 20 E

Total Area

643,801.00 km2

Land Area

640,427.00 km2

Water Area

3,374.00 km2

Population

67,059,887

Major Cities

Paris (11,208,440)

Lyon (1,761,188)

Marseille-Aix-en-Provence (1,627,549)

Lille (1,079,120)

Toulouse (1,060,460)

Bordeaux (1,000,475)

Nice-Cannes (948,149)

Nantes (699,328)

Toulon (586,469)

Grenoble (536,965)

Currency

Euros (EUR)

GDP

$2.72 Trillion

GDP Per Capita

$40,493.93

This page was last updated on August 16, 2023

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France - Wikitravel

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France

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France

Contents

1 Understand

1.1 Climate

1.2 Terrain

1.3 When to travel

1.4 History

1.4.1 Rise and fall of the Roman empire

1.4.2 Middle-Ages

1.4.3 The making of a modern state nation

1.4.4 20th and 21st centuries

1.5 Electricity

2 Regions

2.1 Overseas departments

2.2 Overseas territories

3 Cities

4 Other destinations

5 Get in

5.1 Entry requirements

5.2 France Visa requirements

5.3 By plane

5.3.1 Flights to/from Paris

5.3.2 Flights to/from regional airports

5.4 By boat

5.5 By train

5.6 By bus

5.7 By car

5.8 From Belgium

6 Get around

6.1 By plane

6.2 By car

6.2.1 Renting a car

6.3 By thumb

6.4 By train

6.4.1 Taking a dog

6.4.2 Troc des trains

6.5 By taxi

6.6 By VTC

6.7 By bus

6.8 By boat

7 Talk

8 See

8.1 Cities

8.2 French Riviera

8.3 Countryside & villages

8.4 Art museums

8.5 Parks & natural attractions

9 Do

9.1 Music Festivals

10 Buy

10.1 Vacations

10.2 Money

10.3 Stores

11 Eat

11.1 Bread

11.2 Pastries

11.3 Regional dishes

11.4 Unusual foods

11.5 Cheese

11.6 Dietary restrictions

11.7 Breakfast

12 Drink

13 Sleep

13.1 Short term rentals

13.2 Hotels

13.3 B & Bs and Gîtes

13.3.1 Gîtes de France

13.3.2 Gîtes d'étape

13.4 Camping

13.5 Complaints

14 Learn

15 Work

16 Stay safe

16.1 Crimes

16.2 Controlled substances

16.3 Judaism

17 Stay healthy

17.1 Tap water

17.2 Medical help

17.3 Emergencies

17.4 Smoking

18 Respect

18.1 Social Etiquette

18.2 Home Etiquette

18.3 Dining Etiquette

18.4 Métro Etiquette

18.5 Dressing Etiquette

18.6 Things to Avoid

19 Contact

19.1 Emergency

19.1.1 French phone numbers

19.1.2 Toll-free

19.1.3 Cheap international calls

19.1.4 Fixed line

19.1.5 Public call boxes

19.1.6 Mobile

19.2 Internet

19.2.1 Internet cafes

19.2.2 Residential broadband

19.2.3 Wi-Fi

19.2.4 Mobile Internet Access

19.3 Post

19.4 Parcels

20 Cope

Location

Flag

Quick Facts

Capital

Paris

Government

Republic

Currency

Euro (€)

Area

643,801km²water: 3,374km²land: 640,427km²

Population

63,929,000 in metropolitan France

Language

Frenchrecognized locally: Alsatian, Catalan, Corsican, Breton, Gallo, Occitan, some languages of New Caledonia

Religion

45% Christian, 3% Muslim, 1% Jewish, 1% Buddhist, 6% other religion, 44% none or not stated

Electricity

220-230V, 50Hz. Outlets: CEE7/5 (protruding male earth pin), accepting CEE 7/5 (Grounded), CEE 7/7 (Grounded) or CEE 7/16 (non-grounded) plugs

Country code

Internet TLD

.fr

Time Zone

UTC +1

France, officially the French Republic (French: République Française), is a country with which almost every traveller has a relationship. Many dream of its joie de vivre shown by the countless restaurants, picturesque villages and world-famous gastronomy. Some come to follow the trail of France's great philosophers, writers and artists, or to immerse in the beautiful language it gave the world. And others still are drawn to the country's geographical diversity with its long coastlines, massive mountain ranges and breathtaking farmland vistas.

Understand[edit]

France has been the world's most popular tourist destination for quite some time. It received 83.7 million visitors in 2014, although these figures are highly skewed by the number of people who frequent the country for the weekend, particularly to visit Disneyland Paris, Europe's most popular visitor attraction. France is one of the most geographically diverse countries in Europe, containing areas as different from each other as urban chic Paris, the sunny French Riviera, long Atlantic beaches, the winter sports resorts of the French Alps, the castles of the Loire Valley, rugged Celtic Brittany and the historian's dream that is Normandy.

France is a country of rich emotions and turbulent politics but also a place of rational thinking and Enlightenment treasures. Above all, it is renowned for its cuisine, culture and history.

In the Caribbean, France borders the Netherlands via the French territory of Saint-Martin which borders the Dutch territory of Sint Maarten. Five oversea regions also form part of France: Martinique and Guadeloupe in the Caribbean, French Guiana in South America, and Reunion and Mayotte, both off the coast of Madagascar. Numerous French oversea territories also exist around the Earth with varying status.

Climate[edit]

A lot of variety, but temperate winters and mild summers on most of the territory, and especially in Paris. Mild winters and hot summers along the Mediterranean and in the southwest (the latter has lots of rain in winter). You may likely even see a few palm trees on the Mediterranean coast. Mild winters (with lots of rain) and cool summers in the northwest (Brittany). Cool to cold winters and hot summer along the German border (Alsace). Along the Rhône Valley, there is an occasional strong, cold, dry, north-to-northwesterly wind known as the mistral.

Cold winters with lots of the snow in the Mountainous regions: Alps, Pyrenees, Auvergne.

Terrain[edit]

Mostly flat plains or gently rolling hills in north and west; remainder is mountainous, especially Pyrenees in south west, Vosges, Jura and Alps in east, Massif Central in the mid south.

When to travel[edit]

If possible, try to avoid French school holidays and Easter, because hotels are very likely to be overbooked and traffic on the roads is simply awful.

Holidays: search internet for "French school holidays", as they vary from region to region. Mostly, the winter holidays are 10 Feb-10 Mar. The spring holidays are often 10 Apr-10 May. Also try to avoid travel around the 14th of July. (quatorze juillet) These times the roads are full of people, leading to the much dreaded Black Friday traffic jams which can grow in length to over 160km (100 miles)!

Winter gets very cold, sometimes freezing. Make sure to bring appropriate clothing to keep you warm while visiting.

Hotels are very likely to be overbooked and road traffic will be awful during the 1 May, 8 May, 11 Nov, Easter Weekend, Ascension weekend too.

History[edit]

France has been populated since the Neolithic period. The Dordogne region is especially rich in prehistoric caves, some used as habitation, others are temples with remarkable paintings of animals and hunters, like those found at Lascaux, while others are simply incredible geological formations, like the gondola-navigable Gouffre de Padirac.

Rise and fall of the Roman empire[edit]

Written History began in France with the invasion of the territory by the Romans, between 118 and 50 BC. Starting then, the territory which is today called France was part of the Roman Empire, and the Gauls (name given to local Celts by the Romans), who lived there before Roman invasions, became acculturated "Gallo-Romans".

With the fall of the Roman empire, what was left were areas inhabited by descendants of intermarriages between Gallo-Romans and "barbaric" easterners (Mainly the Franks, but also other tribes like the "burgondes").

The legacy of the Roman presence is still visible, particularly in the southern part of the country where Roman circuses are still used for bullfights and rock and roll shows. Some of the main roads still follow the routes originally traced 2,000 years ago, and the urban organisation of many old town centres still transcript the cardo and the decumanus of the former Roman camp (especially Paris). The other main legacy was the Catholic Church which can be, arguably, considered as the only remnant of the civilization of that time

Middle-Ages[edit]

Clovis, who died in 511, is considered as the first French king although his realm was not much more than the area of the present Île de France, around Paris. Charlemagne, who was crowned emperor of the Holy Roman Empire in 800, was the first strong ruler. He united under his rule territories which extend today in Belgium, Germany and Italy. His capital was Aix-la-Chapelle (now in Germany, known as Aachen).

The country was under attack by the Vikings who came from the north and navigated upstream the rivers to plunder the cities and abbeys, it was also under attack from the south by the Muslim Saracens who were established in Spain. The Vikings were given a part of the territory (today's Normandy) in 911 and melted fast in the feudal system. The Saracens were stopped in 732 in Poitiers by Charles Martel, grand father of Charlemagne, a rather rough warrior who was later painted as a national hero.

Starting with Charlemagne, a new society starts to settle, based on the personal links of feudalism. This era is named middle age. Although generally seen as an era of stagnation, it can more be described as a very complex mix of periods of economic and cultural developments (Music and poems of the Troubadours and Trouveres, building of the Romantic, then Gothic cathedrals), and recessions due to pandemic disease and wars.

In 987, Hughes Capet was crowned as king of France ; he is the root of the royal families who later governed France. In 1154 much of the western part of France went under English rule with the wedding of Alienor d'Aquitaine to Henry II (Count of Anjou, born in the town of Le Mans). Some kings of the Plantagenet dynasty are still buried in France, the most famous being Richard I, of Walter Scott's fame, and his father Henry II, who lies in the Abbaye de Fontevraud. The struggle between the English and French kings between 1337 and 1435 is known as the Hundred Years War and the most famous figure, considered as a national heroine, is Joan of Arc.

The making of a modern state nation[edit]

The beginning of the 16th century saw the end of the feudal system and the emergence of France as a "modern" state with its border relatively close to the present ones (Alsace, Corsica, Savoy, the Nice region weren't yet French). Louis XIV who was king from 1643 to 1715 (72 years) was probably the most powerful monarch of his time. French influence extended deep in western Europe, its language was used in the European courts and its culture was exported all over Europe.

That era and the following century also saw the expansion of France on the other continents. This started a whole series of wars with the other colonial empires, mainly England (later Britain) and Spain over the control of North America, the Caribbean, South American, Africa, and Southeast Asia.

The French Revolution started in 1789, leading to the overthrow of King Louis XVI of the House of Bourbon and the creation of the First French Republic. Although this period was also fertile in bloody excesses it was, and still is, a reference for many other liberation struggles. In 1791, the other monarchies of Europe looked with outrage at the revolution and its upheavals, and considered whether they should intervene, either in support of the deposed King Louis XVI, or to prevent the spread of revolution, or to take advantage of the chaos in France. The French Revolutionary Wars were a series of major conflicts fought between the French Republic and several European Monarchies from 1792 to 1802.

Napoléon Bonaparte seized power in a coup d'état, reunited the country and declared himself Emperor of the French, he crowned by Pope Pius VII as Napoleon I of the French Empire, on 2 December 1804 at Notre Dame de Paris. His militaristic ambition which, at first, made him the ruler of most of western Europe were finally his downfall. In 1815 he was defeated in Waterloo (Belgium) by the Seventh Coalition - United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Hanover, Nassau, Brunswick, and Prussia. He is still revered in some Eastern European countries as its armies and its government brought with them the ideas of the French philosophers.

20th and 21st centuries[edit]

1905 saw the separation of the Church from the State. This was a traumatic process, especially in rural areas. The French state carefully avoids any religious recognition. The Church was badly hurt and lost half its priests. In the long run, however, it gained autonomy—for the French State no longer had a voice in choosing bishops. In the early 21st century, the French Institute of Public Opinion (IFOP) 2009 study, based on self declaration in a percentage of the total French population, 64.4% of the population identified as Catholic but with only 15.2% regularly attending or occasionally attending Mass, and 4.5% attending Mass weekly.

The First World War (1914-1918) was a disaster for France, even though the country was ultimately a victor. At first many welcomed the war to avenge the humiliation of defeat and loss of territory to Germany following the Franco-Prussian War. However very high losses and almost no gain on the Western Front change opinions of the war. A significant part of the male workforce was killed or disabled and a large part of the country and industry destroyed. When the Second World War (1939-45) was declared there was little enthusiasm and much dread in France at the prospect of enduring another major war. In the spring of 1940 Hitler's army invaded France, the army and government of the Third French Republic collapse and France surrendered in June of 1940. With British troops fleeing France an atmosphere of humiliation and defeat swept over the country. On the other hand, the French Resistance conducted sabotage operations inside German-occupied France. To support the Allied invasion of Normandy in June 1944, various groups increased their sabotage and guerilla attacks.

Since the end of WWII France went through a period of reconstruction and prosperity came back with the development of industry. The Fifth Republic (1958-to the present) emerged from the collapse of the French Fourth Republic (1946-58) and replaced the prior parliamentary government with a semi-presidential system. It is France's third-longest-enduring political regime, after the pre-French Revolution Ancien Régime and the Third Republic.

France began the process of decolonisation after a rise in nationalism following WWII.

In 1963 France and West Germany signed the Élysée Treaty, known as the Friendship Treaty, the treaty established a new foundation for relations that ended centuries of rivalry between them. France would play a role in what would eventually became the European Union. One of the most visible consequence being the introduction in 2002 of the Euro (€), now the common currency of eighteen of the twenty-eight EU members and also used by seven other European countries.

In 2014, France was a republic with a President elected for a 5-year term (officially the French Republic and some would describe it as a "Unitary semi-presidential and constitutional republic"). Some current main issues are the further integration of the country into the EU and the adoption of common standards for the economy, defence, immigrant rights, and so on.

The ban on religious symbols of 15 March 2004 in public schools is an application of the French policy of laïcité (secularism) under which religious symbols such as Muslim veils, Jewish Kippahs and Sikh turbans have been banned from schools. This has meant that the guarantees for freedom of religion have been curtailed for faith groups in France. Although France is extremely safe, anyone from an openly religious, faith community may still need to exercise care when travelling in France.

Electricity[edit]

Electricity is supplied at 220 to 230V 50Hz. Outlets are CEE7/5 (protruding male earth pin) and accept either CEE 7/5 (Grounded), CEE 7/7 (Grounded) or CEE 7/16 (non-grounded) plugs. Older German-type CEE 7/4 plugs are not compatible as they do not accommodate the earth pin found on this type of outlet. However, most modern European appliances are fitted with the hybrid CEE 7/7 plug which fits both CEE 7/5 (Belgium & France) and CEE 7/4 (Germany, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and most of Europe) outlets.

Plugs Travellers from the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Denmark, Italy, Switzerland and other countries using 230V 50Hz which use different plugs simply require a plug adaptor to use their appliances in France. Plug adaptors for plugs from the US and UK are available from electrical and "do-it-yourself" stores such as Bricorama.

Voltage: Travellers from the US, Canada, Japan and other countries using 110V, 60Hz may need a voltage converter. However, some laptops, mobile phone chargers and other devices can accept either 110V or 230V so only require a simple plug adaptor. Check the voltage rating plates on your appliances before connecting them.

Regions[edit]

Metropolitan France is divided into 13 administrative regions, which themselves can be grouped into seven cultural regions:

Regions of France

Île-de-France The region surrounding the French capital, Paris.

Northern France (Nord-Pas de Calais, Picardy, Normandy)A region where the world wars have left many scars.

Northeastern France (Alsace, Lorraine, Champagne-Ardenne, Franche-Comté)A region where wider European culture (and especially Germanic culture) has merged with the French, giving rise to interesting results.

Great West (Brittany, Pays de la Loire)An agriculture-based oceanic region with a culture greatly influenced by the ancient Celtic peoples.

Central France (Centre-Val de Loire, Poitou-Charentes, Burgundy, Limousin, Auvergne)A largely agricultural and vinicultural region, featuring river valleys, châteaux and historic towns.

Southwestern France (Aquitaine, Midi-Pyrenees)A region of sea and wine, with nice beaches over the Atlantic Ocean and young high mountains close to Spain.

Southeastern France (Rhône-Alpes, Languedoc-Roussillon, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Corsica)The primary tourist region of the country outside of Paris, with a warm climate and azure sea, contrasting with the mountainous French Alps.

Chantilly gardens, Paris, Île-de-France

St Joseph's Church by August Peret, Le Havre, Normandy, Northern France

Hotel de Ville decorated to celebrate its inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List, Le Havre, Normandy, Northern France

Place du General de Gaulle, Lille, Nord-Pas de Calais, Northern France

Each administrative region is divided into a number of departments. Each department is allocated a 2 digit number. This number forms the first 2 digits of the 5 digit French postcode.

Overseas departments[edit]

Guadeloupe

Martinique

Mayotte

French Guiana (Guyane Française)

Réunion.

Overseas territories[edit]

French Polynesia (Polynésie Française) — post-card tropical islands in Oceania

New Caledonia (Nouvelle Caledonie) — long-shaped island in Oceania

Saint-Pierre and Miquelon (Saint Pierre et Miquelon) — small islands off the Canadian coast

Wallis and Futuna —

The following overseas territories are remote possessions kept as natural reservations:

French Southern and Antarctic territories (Terres Antarctiques et Australes Françaises, or TAAF), consisting of Terre Adélie in Antarctica and some islands in the Indian Ocean

Scattered Islands of the Indian Ocean (Iles Eparses): Europa Island, Bassas da India, Juan de Nova Island, Glorioso Islands (Glorieuses)

Clipperton Island

A very limited form of tourism is available in the TAAF islands.

Cities[edit]

France has numerous cities of interest to travellers, below is a list of nine of the most notable:

Paris — the "City of Light", romance and the Eiffel Tower

Bordeaux — city of wine, traditional stone mansions and smart terraces

Bourges — gardens, canals and a cathedral listed as a UNESCO heritage site

Lille — a dynamic northern city known for its handsome centre and active cultural life

Lyon — France's second city with a history from Roman times to the Resistance

Marseille — Third largest French city with a harbour as big as its place as the heart of Provence

Nantes — the "Greenest City" and, according to some, the best place to live in Europe

Strasbourg — famous for its historical centre, and home to many European institutions

Toulouse — the "Pink City", for its distinctive brick architecture, main city of Occitania

Other destinations[edit]

Camargue — one of Europe's largest river deltas and wetlands

Corsica — the birthplace of Napoleon, a unique island with a distinct culture and language

Disneyland Paris — the most visited attraction in Europe

French Alps — home to the highest mountain in Western Europe, the Mont Blanc

French Riviera (Côte d'Azur) — Mediterranean coastline of France with plenty of upper class seaside resorts, yachts and golf courses

Loire Valley — the world-famous Loire Valley, best known for its wines and chateaux

Luberon — the stereotypical Provence of picturesque villages, joie de vivre and wine

Mont Saint Michel — second most-visited sight in France, a monastery and town built on a tiny outcrop of rock in the sand, which is cut off from the mainland at high tide

Verdon Gorge — beautiful river canyon in a turquoise-green, great for kayaking, hiking, rock-climbing or just driving around the limestone cliffs

Get in[edit]

Entry requirements[edit]

Minimum validity of travel documents

EU, EEA and Swiss citizens need only have a national identity card or passport which is valid for the entirety of their stay in France.

Other nationals (regardless of whether they are visa-exempt (e.g. New Zealanders) or are required to have a visa (e.g. South Africans)) must have a passport which has at least 3 months' validity beyond their period of stay in France. In addition, the passport must have been issued in the previous 10 years.

View of Mont Saint Michel from the causeway carpark, Normandy, Northern France

Yachts moored in Honfleur, Normandy, Northern France

The French impressionist painter Claude Monet's house in Giverny, Normandy, Northern France

Interior of Bayeux Cathedral, Normandy, Northern France

Half-timbered facades in old town Strasbourg, Alsace, Northeastern France

The cathedral at Reims, Marne department, Northeastern France

The coast at Quiberon, Brittany

Place de la République in Rennes, Brittany

Boats in the harbour at St Malo, Brittany

Saumur, Pays de la Loire

The main street of old city of Le Mans, Pays de la Loire

The Saint-Julien Cathedral in Le Mans, Pays de la Loire

The Saint-Michel gate in Guerande, Pays de la Loire

Cathédrale Saint-Pierre in Nantes, Pays de la Loire

France is a member of the Schengen Agreement.

There are no border controls between countries that have signed and implemented this treaty - the European Union (except Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Ireland, Romania and the United Kingdom), Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Likewise, a visa granted for any Schengen member is valid in all other countries that have signed and implemented the treaty. But be careful: not all EU members have signed the Schengen treaty, and not all Schengen members are part of the European Union. This means that there may be spot customs checks but no immigration checks (travelling within Schengen but to/from a non-EU country) or you may have to clear immigration but not customs (travelling within the EU but to/from a non-Schengen country).

Please see the article Travel in the Schengen Zone for more information about how the scheme works and what entry requirements are.

Citizens of Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Bahamas, Barbados, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Holy See, Honduras, Israel, Macedonia, Mauritius, Monaco, Montenegro, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, San Marino, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Seychelles, Taiwan and Uruguay, as well as British Nationals (Overseas), are permitted to work in France without the need to obtain a visa or any further authorisation for the period of their 90 day visa-free stay. All other visa-exempt nationals are exempt from holding a visa for short-term employment if they possess a valid work permit and can present this work permit at the port of entry, with limited exceptions. However, this ability to work visa-free does not necessarily extend to other Schengen countries. For more information, visit this webpage of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

France Visa requirements[edit]

Foreign nationals who are not visa-exempt (e.g. South Africans) must make a 'declaration of entry' (déclaration d'entrée) at a police station or to border inspection personnel if they arrive in France directly from another country of Schengen Area (e.g. Italy), unless they hold a long-term visa or residence permit issued by a Schengen member state. Their passports will be endorsed by the authorities to prove that such a declaration has been made.

The decision to create a coronavirus health certificate in France is considered a surprise by some European news media since Macron was one of the main EU leaders that were against the implementation of the upcoming Digital Green Pass to be launched by the European Commission.

Reading up

Before you leave you may want to read a book like French or Foe by Polly Platt or Almost French by Sarah Turnbull — interesting, well written records from English speaking persons who live in France. For the adult reader interested in the famous reputation enjoyed by Paris for romance and sensuality, try "SENSUAL PARIS: Sex, Seduction and Romance in the Sublime City of Light" by Jonathan LeBlanc Roberts

If you intend to stay in France for longer than 90 days, regardless of purpose and with extremely few exceptions, an advance long-stay visa is always required of non-EEA or non-Swiss citizens. It is almost impossible to switch from a "C" (visitor) entry status to a "D" (long-stay) status from inside France, and you must apply for a long-stay visa in-person at the consulate responsible for your place of residence.

As of 2009, certain categories of long-stay visa, such as visitor (visiteur), family (vie privée et familiale), student (étudiant), intern (stagiaire), scientist/researcher (scientifique-chercheur), salaried worker (salarié), and short-term worker (travailleur temporaire), do not require holders to obtain a separate residence permit (carte de séjour) for the first year of stay in France. However, the long-stay visa must be validated by the Office Française de l'Immigration et de l'Intégration (OFII) within the first three months of entering France to be valid for longer than those three months. This is done by sending in a form to the OFII received along with the visa with the address of residence in France, completing a medical examination, and attending an introductory meeting to validate the visa. The tax required for validation (€58 for students and interns, but €241 for workers except those under the short-term worker category and for scientists, visitors, and family) is, as of February 2013, collected at the end of the validation process inside France. This validated visa will serve as a residence permit and, likewise, allow travel throughout the other Schengen countries for up to 90 days in a six-month period. To stay in France after a validated visa expires, however, and/or if you hold a visa which states carte de séjour à solliciter dès l'arrivée, a carte de séjour (residence permit card) must be obtained at the préfecture responsible for your place of residence within two months of entry into France or two months before the visa expires. Please consult the OFII website for more information.

French overseas departments and territories (DOM-TOM) are not part of the Schengen Area and operate a separate immigration regime from mainland France. As such, if you intend to visit them, you will need a separate visa (if required for your nationality).

In 2018, the EU approved regulations to establish a system for electronic authorisation of visa-exempt visitors, named ETIAS. There are 60 eligible countries. Since the Brexit visiting France from UK also will need to apply ETIAS.

By plane[edit]

Flights to/from Paris[edit]

The main international airport, Roissy - Charles de Gaulle (IATA: CDG) is likely to be your port of entry if you fly into France from outside Europe. CDG is the home of Air France (AF), the national company, for most intercontinental flights. AF and the companies forming the SkyTeam Alliance (Dutch KLM, Aeromexico, ITA, Delta Air Lines, Korean Air,) use Terminal 2 while most other foreign airlines use Terminal 1. A third terminal is used for charter flights. If transferring through CDG (especially between the various terminals) it is important to leave substantial time between flights. Ensure you have no less than one hour between transfers. Add more if you have to change terminals as you will need to clear through security.

Transfers to another flight in France: AF operates domestic flights from CDG too, but a lot of domestic flights, and also some internal European flights, use Orly, the second Paris airport. For transfers within CDG you can use the free bus shuttle linking all terminals, train station, parking lots and hotels on the platform. For transfers to Orly there is a bus link operated by AF (free for AF passengers). The two airports are also linked by a local train (RER) which is slightly less expensive, runs faster but is much more cumbersome to use with heavy luggage. AF has agreements with the SNCF, the national rail company, which operates TGVs (see below) out of CDG airports (some trains carry flight numbers). The TGV station is in Terminal 2 and is on the route of the free shuttle. For transfers to the city centre of Paris, see Paris. Paris Star Shuttle offers transfers from CDG into Paris.

Some low-cost airlines, including Ryanair, fly to Beauvais airport situated about 80km northwest of Paris. Buses to Paris are provided by the airlines. Check schedules and fares on their websites.

Flights to/from regional airports[edit]

Other airports outside Paris have flights to/from international destinations: Bordeaux, Clermont-Ferrand, Lille, Lyon, Marseille, Nantes, Nice, Toulouse have flights to cities in western Europe and North Africa; these airports are hubs to smaller airports in France and may be useful to avoid the transfer between the two Paris airports. Two airports, Bâle-Mulhouse and Geneva, are shared by France and Switzerland and can allow entry into either country.

Many airlines operate flights between regional airports in the UK and France and between Ireland and France:

British Airways flies direct from the UK to Angers, Basel (Mulhouse), Bordeaux, Chambéry, Geneva, Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Paris CDG, Paris Orly, Quimper and Toulouse.

Cityjet flies direct from the UK to Avignon (Provence), Brest (Brittany), Brive (Dordogne), Deauville (Normandy), Nantes, Paris Orly, Pau (Pyrénées) and Toulon (Côte d'Azur) and from Dublin to Paris CDG.

Eastern Airways flies between Southampton and Lorient.

easyJet flies direct from the UK to Basel (Mulhouse), Biarritz, Bordeaux, Geneva, Grenoble, La Rochelle, Lyon, Marseille, Montpellier, Nantes, Nice, Paris CDG, Paris Orly, and Toulouse.

Jet2.com flies direct from the UK to Bergerac, Chambéry, Geneva, La Rochelle, Nice, Paris CDG and Toulouse.

Lydd Air [1] operates a short shuttle flight across the Channel between Lydd in Kent and Le Touquet.

Ryanair [2] flies direct from the UK to Bergerac, Béziers, Biarritz, Bordeaux, Brive (Dordogne), Carcassonne, Deauville (Normandy), Dinard (Saint-Malo), Grenoble, La Rochelle, Limoges, Lourdes, Marseille, Montpellier, Nîmes, Perpignan, Poitiers, Rodez, Toulon (Côte d'Azur) and Tours.

Aer Lingus flies direct from Ireland to Bordeaux, Geneva, Lyon, Marseille, Nantes, Nice, Paris CDG, Perpignan, Rennes and Toulouse.

By boat[edit]

France is served by numerous services from England to France:

P&O Ferries - operate freight and passenger services from Dover to Calais.

DFDS - operate freight and passenger services from Dover to Calais.

DFDS Seaways - operate freight and passenger services from Dover to Dunkerque and Newhaven to Dieppe.

LD Lines [3] - operate freight and passenger services from Portsmouth to Le Havre.

Brittany Ferries [4] - operate freight and passenger services from Portsmouth to Caen, Portsmouth to Cherbourg, Portsmouth to St Malo, Poole to Cherbourg and Plymouth to Roscoff.

Condor Ferries [5] - operate freight and passenger services from Portsmouth to Cherbourg, Poole to St Malo and Weymouth to St Malo.

Prices vary considerably depending on which route you choose. Generally the cheapest route is the short sea route across the English Channel which is Dover to Calais, so it is worth comparing prices before you decide which is the most suitable route to France.

Passengers travelling from Dover by ferry to France go through French passport/identity card checks in the UK before boarding, rather than on arrival in France. Passengers travelling from all other UK ports to France go through French passport/identity card checks on arrival in France.

There are also connections from Ireland to France:

Brittany Ferries [6] - operate ferry services from Cork to Roscoff

Celtic Link Ferries [7] - operate ferry services from Rosslare to Cherbourg

Irish Ferries [8] - operate ferry services from Rosslare to Cherbourg

Numerous companies now act as agents for the various ferry companies much like Expedia and Travelocity act as agents for airlines allowing the comparison of various companies and routes. Two well known brands are Ferryonline [9], FranceFerryBooker [10], Direct Ferries [11] and AFerry.co.uk [12].

By train[edit]

The French rail company, SNCF, provides direct service from most European countries using regular trains. French train tickets can be purchased directly in the US from RailEurope a subsidiary of the SNCF.

Eurostar [13] runs high-speed trains to France from the United Kingdom and Belgium. Passengers travelling from the UK to France go through French passport/identity card checks in the UK before boarding, rather than on arrival in France. Passengers travelling from Brussels to Lille/Calais/Paris are within the Schengen Area. Eurostar operates the following routes from France:

Paris (Gare du Nord) direct to London (St Pancras International) (2h 15min), Ebbsfleet and Ashford and via Lille to Brussels (Zuid-Midi).

Lille (Europe) direct to London (St Pancras International) (1h 20min), Ebbsfleet, Ashford and Brussels (Zuid-Midi)

Calais (Fréthun) direct to London (St Pancras International) (1h 2min; 2-3 daily), Ebbsfleet (44min; 3-4 daily), Ashford (35min; 1 daily) and Brussels (Zuid-Midi) (1h 9min; 2-3 daily) Note: Although Brussels Midi-Calais Fréthun can't be purchased on the Eurostar website, it is available on the Belgian Railways website [14]

Thalys uses high-speed TGV trains to connect Paris to Brussels and onward to cities in the Netherlands and Germany. It can be a bit expensive compared to normal trains.

IZY is a low-cost train service between Paris and Brussels (journey time: 2hr 30min, around 1 hour longer than the Thalys high-speed train service).

Intercity trains leave for all parts of Europe, including overnight trains to San Sebastian in Spain, Porto and Lisbon in Portugal.

Eurotunnel [15] or Le Shuttle as it's often known, is a train service between Folkestone in Kent in the UK and Calais in France. The Eurotunnel or Le Shuttle transports vehicles such as cars, coaches and freight by rail through the Channel Tunnel. Journey times last approximately 35 minutes with on average 4 departures per hour. In 2015 Eurotunnel became the second most popular way for vehicles to travel across the channel with around 10.5 million passengers using the service.

By bus[edit]

Several coach companies operate in France, such as Flixbus, Eurolines, Blablabus and other local companies.

All the tickets can be purchased on Kombo

By car[edit]

Several weekends each year in France it's Black Saturday (Samedi noir) because of the start or end of school holidays and the coinciding traffic jams on the French roads. When possible it is wise to avoid these black days. See for the actual forecast the website of the French traffic service [16].

See Driving in France.

See the 'By boat' section above for information on car ferries to France from the United Kingdom and Ireland.

From Belgium[edit]

As according to an agreement with the CFL, the Belgian railways are directing all passenger trains to France through Luxembourg (thus causing an extra unnecessary border crossing), it may be useful to cross the border directly, on foot. The terminus of the French railways in Longwy can be reached from the Belgian train station of Halanzy (the line operates only on work days, however), or from the bigger Belgian stations of Arlon or Virton. Between these two stations there's a bus operated by the TEC company which stops at Aubange Place, a good point of departure/arrival for the walking tour. The path leads almost exclusively through inhabited areas in the community of Mont-Saint-Martin (yet partially in a forest if you go to/from Halanzy) and takes some 7 km. The city of Longwy itself is quite steep in some of its parts, so pay attention to this when planning your route.

There are domestic Belgian trains that terminate in Lille (station Lille-Flanders).

Between the De Panne terminus of the Belgian railways (and the Coast tram – Kusttram) and the French coastal city of Dunkerque, there is a bus line run by DK'BUS Marine: [17]. It may, however, be operating only in certain time of the year. It is also possible to take a DK'BUS bus which goes to the closest possible distance of the border and then cross it on foot by walking on the beach and arriving at a convenient station of the Coast tram, such as Esplanade.

Get around[edit]

By plane[edit]

The following carriers offer domestic flights within France:

Air France [18] (Ajaccio (Campo Dell Oro Airport), Annecy-Meythet Airport, Avignon-Caum Airport, Bastia (Poretta Airport), Biarritz Parme Airport, Bordeaux Airport, Brest (Guipavas Airport), Caen (Carpiquet Airport), Calvi (Sainte Catherine Airport), Clermont-Ferrand (Aulnat Airport), Figari (Sud Corse Airport), Lannion (Servel Airport), Le Havre (Octeville Airport), Lille (Lesquin Airport), Limoges (Bellegarde Airport), Lorient (Lann Bihoue Airport), Lyon Satolas Airport, Marseille Airport, Metz/Nancy (Metz-Nancy-Lorraine Airport), Montpellier (Mediterranee Airport), Mulhouse/Basel (EuroAirport French), Nantes Atlantique Airport, Nice (Cote D'Azur Airport), Paris (Charles De Gaulle Airport), Paris (Orly Field), Pau (Uzein Airport), Perpignan (Llabanere Airport), Quimper (Pluguffan Airport), Rennes (St Jacques Airport), Rodez (Marcillac Airport), Rouen (Boos Airport), Strasbourg (Entzheim Airport), Tarbes Ossun Lourdes Airport, Toulon (Hyeres Airport), Toulouse (Blagnac Airport))

Hop! [19] (Aurillac Airport, Bastia (Poretta Airport), Beziers Vias Airport, Bordeaux Airport, Brest (Guipavas Airport), Brive-La-Gaillarde (Laroche Airport), La Rochelle (Laleu Airport), Lyon Satolas Airport, Mulhouse/Basel (EuroAirport French), Nantes Atlantique Airport, Paris (Orly Field), Poitiers (Biard Airport), Rennes (St Jacques Airport), Saint Nazaire (Montoir Airport), Toulouse (Blagnac Airport))

Air Corsica [20] (Ajaccio (Campo Dell Oro Airport), Bastia (Poretta Airport), Calvi (Sainte Catherine Airport), Figari (Sud Corse Airport), Lyon Satolas Airport, Marseille Airport, Nice (Cote D'Azur Airport))

Twin Jet [21] (Cherbourg (Maupertus Airport), Marseille Airport, Metz/Nancy (Metz-Nancy-Lorraine Airport), Paris (Orly Field), Saint Etienne (Boutheon Airport), Toulouse (Blagnac Airport))

easyJet [22] (Bastia, Biarritz, Brest, Lyon, Nantes, Nice (Côte D'Azur Airport), Paris (Charles De Gaulle Airport), Paris (Orly), Toulouse (Blagnac Airport))

Ryanair [23] (Marseille to/from Bordeaux/Brest/Lille/Nantes/Paris Beauvais/Paris Vatry/Tours; Paris Beauvais to/from Beziers/Marseille)

Eastern Airways [24] (Lyon to Lorient)

Heli Securite [25] (Cannes (Croisette Heliport), Nice (Cote D'Azur Airport))

Nice Helicopteres [26] (Cannes (Croisette Heliport), Nice (Cote D'Azur Airport))

The following carriers offer direct flights between metropolitan France (French territory geographically situated in Europe) and DOM-TOM (French overseas departments and territories):

Air Austral [27] (Réunion)

Air Caraïbes [28] (French Guiana (Cayenne), Guadeloupe (Pointe-à-Pitre) and Martinique (Fort-de-France))

Air France [29] (French Guiana (Cayenne), Guadeloupe (Pointe-à-Pitre), Martinique (Fort-de-France), Réunion)

'Corsair International [30] (French Guiana (Cayenne), Guadeloupe (Pointe-à-Pitre), Martinique (Fort-de-France), Mayotte (Dzaoudzi), Réunion)

Although the 5 DOM-TOM (French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Mayotte and Réunion) which can be reached directly by air from metropolitan France are part of the European Union, they are outside the Schengen Area and the EU VAT Area (and hence the 5 DOM-TOM apply a different, but similar, immigration regime to metropolitan France which applies the Schengen rules). Since 2009/2010, when flying from metropolitan France to these 5 DOM-TOM, there are only immigration checks on departure from metropolitan France (immigration checks on arrival in these 5 DOM-TOM have been removed). However, when flying from these 5 DOM-TOM to metropolitan France, there are immigration checks both on departure from the DOM-TOM and upon arrival in metropolitan (known in French as double contrôle d’identité). For EU, EEA and Swiss citizens, a valid passport or national identity card is sufficient for the immigration checks both in metropolitan France and in the DOM-TOMs. Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who are visa-exempt for metropolitan France will also be visa-exempt for the DOM-TOMs (and, in addition, certain nationalities which require a visa for metropolitan France/Schengen Area will not require one for the DOM-TOMs).

It is possible to reach the French overseas territories of Saint Barthélemy and Saint Martin (L'Espérance Airport) from metropolitan France by transiting onto a connecting flight at Pointe-à-Pitre in Guadeloupe without stopping in a third country. Therefore, it is possible for EU, EEA and Swiss citizens to visit these territories with a national identity card only (and not a passport).

The following carriers offer flights between metropolitan France and DOM-TOM with a stopover in a third country:

Air France [31] (French Polynesia (Papeete) via the United States (Los Angeles)

Air Tahiti Nui [32] (French Polynesia (Papeete) via the United States (Los Angeles))

To reach the other DOM-TOM (New Caledonia, Saint Pierre and Miquelon and Wallis and Futuna) from metropolitan France, it is necessary to transit between connecting flights in a third country.

By car[edit]

See also: French phrasebook

L'anglais et les Français

Yes, it's true: while most people in France under the age of 60 have studied English, they are often unable or unwilling to use it. This isn't necessarily linguistic snobbery, but is partly due to lack of practice, or fear that their little-used-since-high-school English will sound ridiculous. If you really must speak English, be sure to begin the conversation in French and ask if the person can speak English, as assuming someone can speak a foreign language is considered very rude. Please note that British English, spoken with the carefully articulated "received pronunciation", is what is generally taught in France; thus, other accents (such as Irish, Scottish, General/Southern American or Australian accents) may be understood with difficulty, if at all. Try to speak clearly and slowly, and avoid slang, vulgarity, profanity or US-specific words or phrases. There is no need to speak loudly (unless in a loud environment) to be understood; doing so is considered impolite. Don't forget that French people will highly appreciate any attempts you do to speak French.

French (français) is the official language of France, although there are regional variations in pronunciation and local words. For example, throughout France the word for yes, oui, said "we", but you will often hear the slang form "ouais", said "waay." It's similar to the English language usage of "Yeah" instead of "Yes".

In Alsace and part of Lorraine, a dialect of German called "Alsatian", which is almost incomprehensible to speakers of standard High German, is spoken. In the south, some still speak dialects of the Langue d'Oc (because the word for "yes" is oc): Languedocien, Limousin, Auvergnat, or Provençal. Langue d'Oc is a Romance language, a very close relative of Italian, Spanish, or Catalan. In the west part of Brittany, a few people, mainly old or scholars, speak Breton; this Celtic language is closer to Welsh than to French. In parts of Aquitaine, Basque is spoken, but not as much as on the Spanish side of the border. In Corsica a kind of Italian is spoken. In Provence, Provençal is most likely to be spoken, especially along the Riviera.

However, almost everyone speaks French and tourists are unlikely to ever come across regional languages, except in order to give a "folkloric" flair to things.

Hardly anybody understands imperial units such as gallons or Fahrenheit. Stick to metric units (after all, the French invented this system!).

The French are generally attached to politeness (some might say excessively) and will react coolly to strangers that forget it. You might be surprised to see that you are greeted by other customers when you walk into a restaurant or shop. Return the courtesy and address your hellos/goodbyes to everyone when you enter or leave small shops and cafes. It is, for the French, very impolite to start a conversation with a stranger (even a shopkeeper or client) without at least a polite word like "bonjour". For this reason, starting the conversation with at least a few basic French phrases, or some equivalent polite form in English, goes a long way to convince them to try and help you.

"Excusez-moi Monsieur/Madame": Excuse me (ex-COO-zay-mwah mih-SYOOR/muh-DAM)

"S'il vous plaît Monsieur/Madame" : Please (SEEL-voo-PLAY)

"Merci Monsieur/Madame" : Thank you (mare-SEE)

"Au revoir Monsieur/Madame" : Good Bye (Ore-vwar)

Avoid "Salut" (Hi); it is reserved for friends and relatives, and to use it with people you are not acquainted with is considered quite impolite.

Some travel phrases:

Où est l'hôtel? - Where is the hotel?

Où sont les toilettes? - Where can I find a restroom?

Où est la gare? Where is the train station

Parlez-vous français? Do you speak French?

Parlez-vous anglais? Do you speak English?

Note that French spoken with a hard English accent or an American accent can be very difficult for the average French person to understand. In such circumstances, it may be best to write down what you are trying to say. But tales of waiters refusing to serve tourists because their pronunciation doesn't meet French standards are highly exaggerated. A good-faith effort will usually be appreciated, but don't be offended if a waiter responds to your fractured French, or even fluent but accented, in English (If you are a fluent French speaker and the waiter speaks to you in English when you'd prefer to speak French, continue to respond in French and the waiter will usually switch back - this is a common occurrence in the more tourist-orientated areas, especially in Paris).

Please note that some parts of France (such as Paris) are at times overrun by tourists. The locals there may have some blasé feelings about helping for the umpteenth time foreign tourists who speak in an unintelligible language and ask for directions to the other side of the city. Be courteous and understanding.

If you will be in France for any length of time, it is advisable to learn more than just the basic phrases. You will be much more favorably received if you are at least making the best effort you can. The Paul Noble audio course is one of the fastest ways to get a 'fast and dirty' improvement to your French, within a few days.

As France is a very multicultural society, many African languages, Arabic, Chinese dialects, Vietnamese or Cambodian could be spoken. Spanish, Italian, Portuguese and even Romanian are comprehensible to a French speaker to a reasonably wide extent, as they are all mutually intelligible through most words and come from the same family tree, but you should stick to French unless you're in a large city.

The standard sign language in France is French Sign Language, locally abbreviated LSF. Whenever an interpreter for the hearing-impaired is present at a public event, LSF will be used. Whether a user of a foreign sign language will be able to communicate in France depends on the user's specific language. For example, users of American Sign Language (also used in Anglophone Canada), Irish Sign Language, and Quebec Sign Language may be able to communicate to some degree. These languages are derived from LSF to a significant extent, and share a good deal of vocabulary and syntax. Languages in the LSF family also have one-handed manual alphabets that differ slightly from language to language. On the other hand, users of British Sign Language, New Zealand Sign Language, and Auslan will have great difficulty. These languages differ significantly in vocabulary and syntax from LSF, and also use the same two-handed manual alphabet.

Finally, foreign TV programmes shown on local or national TV networks are dubbed into French. Similarly, the audio of news interviews where the interviewee gives a response in another language is superimposed with a French translation. For foreign films shown in a cinema however, audiences, particularly in larger cities, usually have an option to watch the film in its original language (with French subtitles) or whose audio is dubbed into French.

See[edit]

Thinking of France, you might imagine the iconic Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe or the famous smile of Mona Lisa. You might think of drinking coffee in the lively Paris cafés where great intellectuals lingered in past times, or of eating croissants in a local bistro of a sleepy but gorgeous village in the countryside. Probably, images of splendid châteaux will spring to your mind, of lavender fields or perhaps of vineyards as far as the eye can see. Or perhaps, you'd envisage the chic resorts of the Cote D'Azur. And you wouldn't be wrong. However, they are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to France's many sights and attractions.

Cities[edit]

Paris. the "City of Light" and the capital of romance has been a travellers' magnet for centuries and a real must-see. Of course, no visit would be complete without a glance at its world famous landmarks. The Eiffel Tower is hard to miss, especially when it is lit beautifully at night, but the Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame and Sacré Coeur are both famous and stunning sights too. With no less than 3,800 national monuments in and around Paris, history is literally around every corner. Stroll through the city's spacious green parks, with the Luxembourg Gardens as one of the favourites, and make sure to spend some time on the famous banks of the river Seine. Also, don't miss the magnificent Palace of Versailles, the most grand reminder of the Ancient Regime located just 20km away from the capital.

Bordeaux is famous for its wine but is also a bustling city with lots of historic sights to discover. It is listed as a World Heritage Site for being "an outstanding urban and architectural ensemble". Lyon, the country's second largest city, is listed too, and boasts a beautiful old centre as well as a number of Roman ruins. Strasbourg, one of the EU headquarters, has a character of its own, with clear German influences. Montpellier is one of the best places in the south, with lots of monumental buildings and nice cafés. In the west there's the beautiful historic city of Nantes, home to the Château des ducs de Bretagne and many other monuments. The Capitole de Toulouse is situated right at the heart that famous university city's street plan. Last but not least, don't overlook Arles, with its World Heritage Listed Roman and Romanesque Monuments.

French Riviera[edit]

And then there are the magnificent cities of the Côte d'Azur, once the place to be for the rich and famous but now equally popular with a general crowd. Its sandy beaches, beautiful bays, rocky cliffs and lovely towns has made it one of the main yachting and cruising areas in the world as well as popular destination for land-bound travellers. There's bustling Nice, where some 4 million tourists a year enjoy the stony beaches and stroll over the Promenade des Anglais. Avignon with its splendid ramparts and Palais-des-Papes was once the seat of popes. Although Saint-Tropez gets overcrowded in summer, it's a delightful place in any other season. The same goes for Cannes, where the jet-set of the film industry gathers each year for the famous Cannes Film Festival. From there, you can hop on a boat to the much more peaceful Îles de Lérins.

Much smaller in size but just as gorgeous (and popular) are the perched villages of Gourdon and Èze, which is located on a 427 meter high cliff, much like an “eagle's nest”. Both offer some stunning panoramic views. From Èze, its a very short trip to the glitter and glamour of Monaco. For the world's millionaires and aristocracy, the green peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is an old time favourite with the impressive Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild full of impressionist art as its main sight. A bit more inland but well-worth a visit are the towns of Grasse, famous for its perfumeries, and Biot, known for its glass blowers. The huge city and arts-hub Marseille is usually not considered part of the Cote D'Azur, but is very close. It has plenty of historic sights and nearby are the stunning Calanques, a series of miniature fjords it shares with Cassis.

Countryside & villages[edit]

You haven't seen the best of France if you haven't had at least a taste of its amazing countryside, dotted with wonderful medieval villages and castles. There are great examples in any part of the country, but some 156 have been identified as the most beautiful villages in France . The country's landscapes vary from the snow-covered peaks of the Alps and the Pyrenees with their many winter sports resorts to lush river valleys, dense forests and huge stretches of farmland and vineyards. The Provence, backing a good part of the Côte d'Azur, is one of the most beloved regions. It has a typical Mediterranean atmosphere and is famous for its lavender fields and rosé wines. It's also home to the stunning Verdon Gorge, one of the most beautiful gorges in Europe. The rolling riverine landscape of the Loire Valley is home to many great castles, of which Châteaux Amboise, Château de Villandry, Azay-le-Rideau, Chambord and Châteaux du Pin are some of the finest examples. The western region of Brittany reaches far into the Atlantic and boasts many megalith monuments such as those near Carnac. The beaches of Normandy, also on the Atlantic coast, are famed for the D-Day Allied invasion on 6 June 1944. Although the humbling Normandy American Cemetery and countless museums, memorials and war time remains keep memory of those dark days alive, the region is now a pleasant and popular destination. Its picturesque coast line includes both long stretches of beach and steep limestone cliffs, such as those near Étretat). The region is also home to the splendid and World Heritage listed Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay. The lush hills of the Dordogne form another region famous for its castles, with over 1500 of them on its 9000km² area.

Art museums[edit]

As the French have a real taste for art, the country has numerous art galleries and museums. Several of them are widely considered to be among the finest museums in the world of art, art-history, and culture. The grandeur and fame of the Musée du Louvre in Paris can hardly be matched by any other museum in the world. It boasts a fabulous collection of art from antiquity to the 19th century and is home of the Mona Lisa and many other renowned works. At just a 15 minute walk from there is the Musée d'Orsay, another world class museum that picks up roughly where the Louvre's collections ends. It's located in an old railway station and houses the national collection of art works from the 1848 to 1914 period. Its excellent collection includes some of the best French Impressionist, post-Impressionist and Art Nouveau works, including Degas' ballerinas and Monet's waterlillies. The Musée National d'Art Moderne in Centre Pompidou, still in France's capital, is the largest museum for modern art in Europe. The Museum of Fine Arts in Lyon has an excellent collection varying from ancient Egypt antiquities to Modern art paintings and sculptures. In Lille you'll find the Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille, one of the country's largest museums. Its varied collection is second in size after the Louvre and boasts anything from antiquities to modern art. Smaller but still outstanding are the collections of the Musée Fabre in Montpellier, Musée Toulouse-Lautrec in Albi and the Picasso Museum in Paris. Marseille has many galleries and its Musée Cantini has a good collection of modern art associated with Marseille as well as several works by Picasso. Fondation Maeght houses modern art too and is situated in Saint-Paul de Vence.

Parks & natural attractions[edit]

Disneyland Resort Paris is by far France's most popular park, visited by families from all over Europe. The country's national parks have quite some visitors too though, due to their splendid scenery and great opportunities for outdoor sports. Vanoise National Park is the oldest and one of the largest parks, named after the Vanoise massif. Its highest peak is the Grande Casse at 3,855 m. The impressive natural landscapes of Parc national des Pyrénées are right on the southern border of France and extend well into Spain, where they are part of the Parc National Ordesa y Monte Perdido The whole area is listed as UNESCO World Heritage. In the French part, the glacial cirques of Gavarnie, Estaubé and Troumouse are some of the best sights, as is the wall of Barroud. The again mountainous Cévennes National Park covers parts of the Languedoc-Roussillon (including te popular Ardèche), Midi-Pyrénées and the Rhône-Alpes regions. Its headquarters is in the castle of Florac, but there are towns all over the park. Donkey rides are available and the Cave formation of Aven Armand is one of the parks' best sights.

Not yet under a protective status but highly popular is Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Europe and attractive for climbing, hiking and skiing. From the French side, it is mostly explored from Chamonix, a well known resort on the foot of the mountain.

Do[edit]

Go to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris which is 1665 steps to the top.

Stroll grand Parisian Boulevards

Climb Montmartre Hill in Paris

See a managable amount of art in the Louvre, or see the art in the Musée d'Orsay (Orsay Museum), in a former train station

See the modern architecture in the business district of La Defense

See the Science Museum in Villette Park, and the other odd attractions assembled there

Stroll an old train viaduct on the Promenade Plantee in Paris

See the stunning, but crowded, Versailles Palace

Ride the TGV, one of the fastest trains in the world, from Paris to Lyon

See the "D-Day beaches" of Normandy

Cross the beach at low tide and then climb to the top of Mont Saint Michel

Explore Chartres Cathedral

See the quaintness of the Alsace

Sunbathe on the beaches of the French Riviera

Ride a bike along a section of Tour De France

Go to Camargue-a large beautiful river that occasionally turns red

Walk through the memorial of Oradour-sur-Glane

Music Festivals[edit]

There're plenty of interesting music festivals in France. You can find there almost all kind of music. They can occur near or in big cities agglomerations as Paris, Marseilles or Nice.

France is known by good electronic music and beats, so there're lot techno and trance festivals, some of them are located in interesting scenery. You can see their list in Music Festival Circuit articles.

There're also lots one day music festivals in France, mostly techno and electronic music ones.

Buy[edit]

Vacations[edit]

Many of the French take their vacations in August. As a result, outside of touristic areas, many of the smaller stores (butcher shops, bakeries...) will be closed in parts of August. This also applies to many corporations as well as physicians. Obviously, in touristy areas, stores will tend to be open when the tourists come, especially July and August. In contrast, many attractions will be awfully crowded during those months, and during Easter week-end.

Some attractions, especially in rural areas, close or have reduced opening hours outside the touristic season.

Mountain areas tend to have two touristic seasons: in the winter, for skiing, snowshoeing and other snow-related activities, and in the summer for sightseeing and hiking.

Money[edit]

France has the euro (€) as its sole currency along with 24 other countries that use this common European money. These 24 countries are: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain (official euro members which are all European Union member states) as well as Andorra, Kosovo, Monaco, Montenegro, San Marino and the Vatican which use it without having a say in eurozone affairs and without being European Union members. Together, these countries have a population of more than 330 million.

One euro is divided into 100 cents. While each official euro member (as well as Monaco, San Marino and Vatican) issues its own coins with a unique obverse, the reverse, as well as all bank notes, look the same throughout the eurozone. Every coin is legal tender in any of the eurozone countries.

Some foreign currencies such as the US dollar and the British Pound are occasionally accepted, especially in touristic areas and in higher-end places, but one should not count on it; furthermore, the merchant may apply some unfavourable rate. In general, shops will refuse transactions in foreign currency.

It is compulsory, for the large majority of businesses, to post prices in windows. Hotels and restaurants must have their rates visible from outside (note, however, that many hotels propose lower prices than the posted ones if they feel they will have a hard time filling up their rooms; the posted price is only a maximum).

Almost all stores, restaurants and hotels take the CB French debit card, and its foreign affiliations, Visa and Mastercard. American Express tends to be accepted only in high-end shops. Check with your bank for applicable fees (typically, banks apply the wholesale inter-bank exchange rate, which is the best available, but may slap a proportional and/or a fixed fee). If ever the merchant requires a minimum amount before purchasing, then they will post it in writing at the till or the shop's entrance.

French CB cards (and CB/Visa and CB/Mastercard cards) have a "smart chip" on them allowing PIN authentication of transactions. This system, initiated in France, has now evolved to an international standard and newer British cards are compatible. Some automatic retail machines (such as those vending tickets) may be compatible only with cards with the microchip. In addition, cashiers unaccustomed to foreign cards possibly do not know that foreign Visa or Mastercard cards have to be swiped and a signature obtained, while French customers systematically use PIN and don't sign the transactions.

There is (practically) no way to get a cash advance from a credit card without a PIN in France.

Automatic teller machines (ATM) are by far the best way to get money in France. They are called distributeurs or DAB (distributeur automatique de billets) in french. They all take CB, Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus and Plus and are plentiful throughout France. They may accept other kinds of card; check for the logos on the ATM and on your card (on the back, generally) if at least one matches. It is possible that some machines do not handle 6-digit PIN codes (only 4-digit ones), or that they do not offer the choice between different accounts (defaulting on the checking account). Check with your bank about applicable fees, which may vary greatly (typically, banks apply the wholesale inter-bank exchange rate, which is the best available, but may slap a proportional and/or a fixed fee; because of the fixed fee it is generally better to withdraw money in big chunks rather than €20 at a time). Also, check about applicable maximal withdrawal limits.

Traveller's cheques are difficult to use — most merchants will not accept them, and exchanging them may involve finding a bank that accepts to exchange them and possibly paying a fee.

Note that the postal service doubles as a bank, so often post offices will have an ATM. As a result, even minor towns will have ATMs usable with foreign cards.

Exchange offices (bureaux de change) are now rarer with the advent of the Euro - they will in general only be found in towns with a significant foreign tourist presence, such as Paris. Some banks exchange money, often with high fees. The Bank of France no longer does foreign exchange.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, contactless payment became broadly available in France. The cashier will usually ask you for sans-contact ?, and show you the designated place to tap your card on the machine. The card machine compatible usually will have the contactless logo on them. Automatic ticket machines can also work with contactless payment. This surge in contactless payment also means that the minimum amount to pay by card has been lowered (if not removed) in the majority of shops. Apple Pay and Google Pay also work with contactless compatible machines.

Do's Put money into your checking account, carry an ATM card with a Cirrus or Plus logo on it and a 4-digit pin that does not start with '0' and withdraw cash from ATMs. Pay larger transactions (hotel, restaurants...) with Visa or Mastercard. Always carry some € cash for emergencies.

Don't's Carry foreign currency (USD, GBP...) or traveller's cheques, and exchange them on the go, or expect them to be accepted by shops.

Stores[edit]

Inside city centres, you will find smaller stores (called épiciers, sometime open until late at night), chain grocery stores (Monoprix, Carrefour City,Franprix) as well as, occasionally, department stores and small shopping malls. Always expect the prices to be higher in a smaller store than in a large department store). Residential areas will often have small supermarkets (Auchan, Intermarché). Large supermarkets (hypermarchés such as E. Leclerc or Carrefour) are mostly located on the outskirts of towns and are probably not useful unless you have a car.

Prices are indicated with all taxes (namely, the TVA, or value-added tax) included. It is possible for non-EU residents aged 16 or over spending less than 6 months in France to get a partial refund of TVA upon departure from the EU when shopping at certain stores that have a "tax-free shopping" sticker (in French, 'la détaxe'); inquire within. A refund of TVA is only possible in you spend over €175 (inclusive of TVA) from a single shop in one day. TVA is 20.0% (as of January 2014) on most merchandise, but 10.0% on some things such as books, restaurant meals, and public transport and 5.0% on food purchased from grocery stores (except for sweets and candies!). Alcoholic beverages are always taxed at 20%, regardless of where they're purchased. For more information, see this French Customs webpage.

Always keep your receipt after purchasing an item in a shop, because if it turns out to be defective, you have the right to return it and get a refund/exchange.

Starting from 1 January 2015, shops in France will only be allowed to run sales for a maximum of 10 weeks per year (in 2015, the legal winter sales period runs between Wednesday 7 January and Tuesday 17 February and the summer sales period between Wednesday 24 June and Tuesday 4 August - outside these two periods, sales are forbidden, but shops are allowed to sell their products at reduced prices). For more information, see this French Government webpage.

Although it is not common to bargain/haggle on prices, especially in bigger/chain stores, more and more French people are starting to negotiate prices and ask for discounts when considering making a purchase, particularly in markets and in smaller, independent shops (in 2008, over half of French people admitted in a survey to negotiating prices). You are more likely to be successful if you smile when you bargain, purchase several products, and compare the price with that offered in other shops.

If you are still satisfied with the product which you purchased or the service you received in a shop, you should first try to resolve the problem with the shop staff/manager. If you are still dissatisfied, you can contact the responsible consumer protection authority if the shop has violated the law (e.g. it sold you a product at a higher price to the one advertised, it refused to refund/exchange a defective product, it gave you an inferior level of service on the basis of your race/sex/religion/beliefs/disability/family situation). In Paris, the relevant authority is the Direction départementale de la protection des populations (DDPP) (8 rue Froissart, 75153 PARIS Cedex 03, ☎ 01 40 27 16 00 ([email protected]). ). Outside Paris, you can find a list of consumer protection authorities by département at [61].

Eat[edit]

Onion soup

With its international reputation for fine dining, few people would be surprised to hear that French cuisine can certainly be very good. Unfortunately, it can also be quite disappointing; many restaurants serve very ordinary fare, and some in touristy areas are rip-offs. In other words if you want to eat good food you will need to do your research - just like anywhere else - Try asking locals, hotel staff or even browsing restaurant guides for recommendations as simply walking in off the street can be a hit and miss affair.

There are many places to try French food in France, from three-star Michelin restaurants to French "brasseries" or "bistros" that you can find at almost every corner, especially in big cities. These usually offer a relatively consistent and virtually standardised menu of relatively inexpensive cuisine. To obtain a greater variety of dishes, a larger outlay of money is often necessary. In general, one should try to eat where the locals do for the best chance of a memorable meal. Most small cities or even villages have local restaurants which are sometimes listed in the most reliable guides. There are also specific local restaurants, like "bouchons lyonnais" in Lyon, "crêperies" in Brittany (or in the Montparnasse area of Paris), etc.

Chinese, Vietnamese, even Thai eateries are readily available in Paris, either as regular restaurants or "traiteurs" (fast-food). They are not so common, and are more expensive, in smaller French cities. Many places have "Italian" restaurants though these are often little more than unimaginative pizza and pasta parlors. You will also find North African (Moroccan, Algerian, Tunisian) as well as Turkish and Lebanese food. The ubiquitous hamburger eateries (US original or their French copies) are also available; note that McDonalds is more upmarket in France than in the US.

In France, taxes (10 per cent of the total in restaurants) and service (usually 15 per cent) are always included in the bill (the menu/bill will state 'prix service compris'), so anything patrons add to the bill amount is an "extra-tip" ('pourboire'). French people usually leave one or two coins if they are happy with the service.

Fixed price menus seldom include beverages (if drinks are included, the menu will state 'boisson comprise'). If you want water, waiters will often try to sell you still mineral water (Évian, Thonon) or sparkling water (Badoit, Perrier), at a premium; ask for a carafe d'eau (bottle of tap water), which is safe to drink (and, by law, must be provided free of charge when you order food at a restaurant). Water never comes with ice in it unless so requested (and water with ice may not be available).

As in other countries, restaurants tend to make a large profit off beverages. Expect wine to cost much more than it would in a supermarket. Some restaurants allow you to bring your own bottle of wine to drink with a corkage/BYOB fee (droit de bouchon).

You can order either from a fixed price menu (prix fixe) or à la carte. Many restaurants/eateries also offer a cheaper lunchtime fixed price menu (menu du midi or menu du jour).

A typical fixed price menu will comprise:

appetizer, called entrées or hors d'œuvres

main dish, called plat

dessert (dessert) or cheese (fromage)

Sometimes, restaurants offer the option to take only two of the three courses, at a reduced price.

When you order food at a restaurant, by law the price includes bread ('du pain'). Feel free to ask for more bread if you want.

If you order a steak/piece of meat (such as liver), you may be asked how you want it cooked ('Quelle cuisson?'):

very rare/blue rare (bleu)

rare (saignant)

medium (à point)

well done (bien cuit)

very well done (très bien cuit)

Coffee is always served as a final step (though it may be followed by liquors). A request for coffee during the meal will be considered strange.

Not all restaurants are open for lunch and dinner, nor are they open all year around. It is therefore advisable to check carefully the opening times and days. A restaurant open for lunch will usually start service at noon and accept patrons until 13:30. Dinner begins at around 19:30 and patrons are accepted until 21:30. Restaurants with longer service hours are usually found only in the larger cities and in the downtown area. Finding a restaurant open on Saturday and especially Sunday can be a challenge unless you stay close to the tourist areas.

In a reasonable number of restaurants, especially outside tourist areas, booking a table is compulsory and people may be turned away without one, even if the restaurant is clearly not filled to capacity. For this reason, it can be worthwhile to research potential eateries in advance and make the necessary reservations to avoid disappointment, especially if the restaurant you're considering is specially advised in guide books.

It is illegal for a restaurant to turn you away unless there is an objectively justifiable and legitimate reason (for example, the restaurant is about to close, or you are clearly inebriated). The restaurant must not turn you away simply because you have children with you, or because you are alone/in a small group and the only table left can sit more people. The restaurant is permitted to turn you away if you have a pet animal with you (unless it is a guide dog). If the restaurant turns you away without a legitimate reason, the restaurateur will be liable for a minimum fine of €1500. If the restaurant turns you away based on your race, family situation (e.g. you have brought your children with you), disability, religion and/or beliefs/opinions, the restaurateur will be liable for a fine of €30000 and a 2 year prison sentence. If you are the victim of illegal treatment by a restaurant, you should report the incident to the responsible consumer protection authority (see below).

If you are a patron at a restaurant, by law the restaurant cannot charge you to use the toilet.

A lunch or dinner for two on the "menu" including wine and coffee will cost you (as of 2004) €70 to €100 in a listed restaurant in Paris. The same with beer in a local "bistro" or a "crêperie" around €50. A lunch or dinner for one person in a decent Chinese restaurant in Paris can cost as little as €8 if one looks carefully.

Outside of Paris and the main cities, prices are not always lower but the menu will include a fourth course, usually cheese. As everywhere beware of the tourist traps which are numerous around the heavy travelled spots and may offer a nice view but not much to remember in your plate.

If you are dissatisfied with the food and/or service you receive at a restaurant, you should speak to the waiter/manager. By law, the restaurant is obliged to provide a new plate of food if the one which has been served to you is not fresh, sufficiently hot, or inconsistent with the menu description. (However, if the plate served is merely not to your taste, the restaurant is not legally obliged to provide a new plate of food, and you are still obliged to pay for what you have ordered even if you do not consume it.) If you are still dissatisfied with the food/service, you can complain to the responsible consumer protection authority. In Paris, the relevant authority is the Direction départementale de la protection des populations (DDPP) (8 rue Froissart, 75153 PARIS Cedex 03, ☎ 01 40 27 16 00 ([email protected]). ). Outside Paris, you can find a list of consumer protection authorities by département at [62]. If, following your meal at a restaurant, you become unwell and suspect that it was because of the poor hygiene conditions at the restaurant, you should alert the relevant health protection authorities as soon as possible: in Paris, the consumer protection authority (DDPP) also acts as the regulator of hygiene conditions at restaurants, but outside Paris, it is the Direction régionale de l'Alimentation, de l'Agriculture et de la Forêt (DRAAF) which is responsible for monitoring hygiene conditions at restaurants (contact details by region can be found at [63]).

If you have complained to the restaurant and remain dissatisfied, you can request the assistance of the Tourism Mediator (MTV Médiation Tourisme Voyage) [64].

Bread[edit]

All white bread variants keep for only a short time and must be eaten the same day. Hence bakers bake at least twice a day.

The famous baguette: a long, thin loaf

Baguette de tradition française: made from wheat flour, water, yeast and salt (not frozen dough), and may also contain broad bean flour (max 2%), soya flour (max 0.5%) and/or wheat malt flour (max 0.3%); by law, it must be prepared and baked in the same place where it is sold (usually sold for €1 to €1.20) - arguably the best type of baguette

Variants of the baguette : la ficelle (even thinner), la flûte

Pain de campagne or Pain complet: made from whole grain which keeps relatively well.

Boule: round loaf

Pastries[edit]

Pastries are a large part of French cooking. Hotel breakfasts tend to be light, consisting of tartines (pieces of bread with butter or jam) or the famous croissants and pain au chocolat/"chocolatine", not dissimilar to a chocolate filled croissant (but square rather than crescent shaped).

Pastries can be found in a pâtisserie but also in most boulangeries. Within the culture of French pastries, we can also find traditional macarons, the most coveted cookie in France, particularly in Paris but born in Italy in 1533. Originated were simple cookies, made of almond powder, sugar and egg whites, now you can find them in almost all the bakeries in France as a “double-decker” affair with different kinds of cream flavors inside that stick two cookies together.

Regional dishes[edit]

Every French region has dishes all its own. These dishes follow the resources (game, fish, agriculture, etc) of the region, the vegetables (cabbage, turnip, endives, etc) which they grow there. Here is a small list of regional dishes which you can find easily in France. Generally each region has a unique and widespread dish (usually because it was poor people's food):

Cassoulet (in south west) : Beans, duck, pork & sausages

Choucroute, or sauerkraut (in Alsace) : stripped fermented cabbage + pork

Flammekueche (Alsace) : thin-crust pizza with cheese, crème fraîche, onions and bacon

Baeckeoffe (Alsace) : sliced potatoes, sliced onions, cubed mutton, beef and pork stew

Quiche Lorraine (Lorraine) : pie with custard, bacon and cheese

Fondue Savoyarde (central Alps) : Melted/hot cheese with alcohol

Fondue Bourguignonne (in Burgundy) : Pieces of beef (in boiled oil), usually served with a selection of various sauces.

Raclette (central Alps) : melted cheese & potatoes/meat

Pot-au-feu : boiled beef with vegetables

Tournedos Rossini : beef tenderloin pan-fried in butter, topped with a slice of pan-fried foie gras, garnished with slices of black truffle and finished in a rich Madeira sauce

Boeuf Bourguignon (Burgundy) : slow cooked beef with gravy

Navarin d'agneau : lamb version of boeuf bourguignon

Coq au vin : chicken stew with wine, lardons and mushrooms

Gratin dauphinois (Rhone-Alpes) : oven roasted slices of potatoes

Aligot (Auvergne) : melted cheese mixed with a puree of potatoes

Bouillabaisse (fish + saffron) (Marseille and French Riviera) : Don't be fooled. A real bouillabaisse is a really expensive dish due to the amount of fresh fish it requires. Be prepared to pay at least €30/persons. If you find restaurants claiming serving bouillabaisse for something like €15/persons, you'll get a very poor quality.

Soupe de poisson à la rouille (Marseille and French Riviera) : tomato and saffron fish soup, served with 'rouille' (saffron mayonnaise)

Pissaladière (French Riviera) : pizza with onion, olives and anchovies

Soupe au pistou (French Riviera) : soup with pesto

Ratatouille (Provence) : vegetable stew (tomatoes, onion, courgettes, aubergines, peppers)

Gigot D’Agneau Pleureur (Provence) : leg of lamb cooked slowly on top of potatoes

Tartiflette (Savoie) Reblochon cheese, potatoes and pork or bacon.

Confit de Canard (Landes) : Duck Confit, consists of legs and wings bathing in grease. That grease is actually very healthy and, with red wine, is one of the identified sources of the so-called "French Paradox" (eat richly, live long).

Foie Gras (Landes) : The liver of a duck or goose. Although usually quite expensive, foie gras can be found in supermarkets for a lower price (because of their purchasing power) around the holiday season. It is the time of year when most of foie gras is consumed in France. It goes very well with Champagne.

Magret de canard : Pan-fried duck breast

Confit de canard : Duck leg which is cured in salt and then cooked in its own fat

Garbure (Aquitaine) : Soup/stew of ham and cabbage

Quenelle de brochet (Lyon) : Pike fish combined with breadcrumbs and a light egg binding, served in an oval shape

Piperade (Basque country) : Stew made of tomatoes, onions and peppers with some eggs on top

Poulet basquaise (Basque country) : Stew made of chicken, tomatoes, onions and peppers

Accras de morue (Guadeloupe and Martinique) : deep-fried balls of cod

Cooking and drinking is a notable part of the French culture, take time to eat and discover new dishes...

Unusual foods[edit]

if you are served escargots or snails, you will usually also get a slim and specialised fork to eat them with.

Contrary to stereotype, snails and frog legs are quite infrequent foods in France, with many French people enjoying neither, or sometimes never having even tasted them. Quality restaurants sometimes have them on their menu: if you're curious about trying new foods, go ahead.

Frogs' legs have a very fine and delicate taste with flesh that is not unlike chicken. They are often served in a garlic dressing and are no weirder to eat than, say, crab.

Most of the taste of Bourgogne snails (escargots de bourgogne) comes from the generous amount of butter, garlic and parsley in which they are cooked. They have a very particular spongy-leathery texture that is the characteristic that is liked by people who like snails. Catalan style snails ("cargols") are made a completely different way, and taste much weirder.

Let us also cite:

Rillettes sarthoises also known as Rillettes du Mans. A sort of potted meat, made from finely shredded and spiced pork. A delicious speciality of the Sarthe area in the north of the Pays de la Loire and not to be confused with rillettes from other areas, which are more like a rough pate.

Beef bone marrow (os à moelle). Generally served in small quantities, with a large side. So go ahead: If you don't like it, you'll have something else to eat in your plate.

Veal sweetbread (ris de Veau), is a very fine (and generally expensive) delicacy, often served with morels, or in more elaborates dishes like "bouchees a la reine".

Beef bowels (tripes) is served either "A la mode de Caen" (with a white wine sauce, named after the town in Normandy) or "A la catalane" (with a slightly spiced tomato sauce)

Blood sausage (boudin noir) often served with potatoes and apples

Andouillettes are sausages made from tripe, a speciality of Lyon

Tricandilles are seasoned and grilled pork tripe from the Bordeaux region

Beef tongue (langue de bœuf) and beef nose(museau) and Veal head (tête de veau) are generally eaten cold (but thoroughly cooked!) as an appetizer.

Canard à la presse (pressed duck) the duck is asphyxiated to retain the blood, the meat is then roasted and the carcass is put through a press to extract the blood and juices. The extract is thickened and flavoured with butter, cognac and duck liver, and the sauce is then served on pan-fried duck breast.

Lamprey à la Bordelaise lamprey fish cooked in a stew with leeks, red wine, onions and ham

Oysters (Huîtres) are most commonly served raw in a half shell. They are often graded by size, No1 being the largest (and most expensive).

Oursins (sea urchins) For those who like concentrated iodine.

Steak tartare a big patty of ground beef cured in acid as opposed to cooked, frequently served with a raw egg. Good steak tartare will be prepared to order at your table. A similar dish is boeuf carpaccio, which is thin slices or strips of raw steak drizzled with olive oil and herbs.

Cervelle (pronounced ser-VELL), lamb brain.

Cheese[edit]

France is certainly THE country of cheese, with nearly 400 different kinds. Indeed, former president General Charles De Gaulle was quoted as saying "How can you govern a country which has 365 varieties of cheese?".

Here is a far from exhaustive list of what one can find:

Bleu des Causses

Livarot

Roquefort

Bleu du Vercors

Morbier

Saint Nectaire

Boulette d'Avesnes

Maroilles

Salers

Brie de Meaux

Munster

Sainte Maure de Touraine

Brie de Melun

Murol

Selles-sur-Cher

Broccio

Neufchâtel

Saint Marcellin

Camembert

Ossau-Iraty

Sainte Maure de Touraine

Cantal

Pelardon

Tomme de chèvre

Chaource

Pérail

Tomme des Cévennes

Comté

Picodon

Valençay

...

Dietary restrictions[edit]

Vegetarianism is more common than it used to be, especially in larger cities. Still, very few restaurants offer vegetarian menus, thus if you ask for something vegetarian the only things they may have available are salad and vegetable side dishes.

There may still be confusions between vegetarianism and pesce/pollotarianism. Vegetarian/organic food restaurants are starting to appear. However, "traditional" French restaurants may not have anything vegetarian on the menu, so you may have to pick something "à la carte", which is usually more expensive.

Veganism is still very uncommon and it may be difficult to find vegan eateries.

Breakfast[edit]

Breakfast in France isn't the most important meal of the day and is usually very light. The most typical breakfast consists of a coffee and a croissant or some other "viennoiserie" (pastry), but since it implies going to the patisserie early in the morning to buy a fresh croissant, it's typically reserved for somewhat special occasions. On normal days most people have a drink (coffee, tea, hot chocolate, orange juice) and either toast ("tartines" made of baguette or toast bread with butter and jam/honey/Nutella) that can be dipped in the hot drink, or cereal with milk. People who eat healthy may go for fruits and yoghurt. As a general rule, the French breakfast is mostly sweet, but everything changes and an increasing number of places are starting to serve savoury breakfasts.

Drink[edit]

Champagne, Burgundy, Bordeaux, Rhone, the Loire Valley... France is the home of wine.

Beer (lager) is also extremely popular, in particular in northern France, where "Biere de Garde" can be found.

The alcohol purchase age was recently raised to 18 for all drinks, but this is not always strictly enforced; however, laws against drunk driving are strictly enforced, with stiff penalties.

Wine and liquors may be purchased from supermarkets, or from specialized stores such as the Nicolas chain. Nicolas offers good advice on what to buy (specify the kind of wine and the price range you desire). In general, only French wines are available unless a foreign wine is a "speciality" with no equivalent in France (such as port), and they are classified by region of origin, not by grape.

Prices of food and beverages will vary according to whether they're served to you at the bar or sitting at a table - the same cup of espresso might cost €0.50 more if served at a table than at the bar, and €0.50 more again if served out on the terrace. Really, you're not paying so much for the beverage as for the table spot. Do consider the bar, though - while you will have to stand, café bars are often where a great deal of public discourse and interaction happens. In any event, cafés are required by law to post their prices somewhere in the establishment, usually either in the window or on the wall by the bar. Note also that cafés in touristy areas, especially in Paris, tend to serve very expensive food of rather average quality. Unless you are dying of hunger or thirst, avoid the places that have menus in multiple languages or are near heavily-trafficked attractions. Instead, consider buying snacks and beverages from a grocery store and enjoying them in a nearby park.

There are a couple of mixed drinks which seem to be more or less unique to France, and nearby francophone countries.

Panaché is a mix of beer and lemonade, basically a beer shandy. (Same as "Radler" in Central Europe.)

Monaco is a Panaché with some grenadine syrup added.

Kir is a pleasant aperitif of white wine (in theory, Bourgogne Aligoté) or, less frequently, of champagne (then named kir royal and about twice the price of regular kir) and cassis (blackcurrant liqueur), or peche (peach), or mûre (blackberry).

Pastis is an anise-based (licorice-flavoured) spirit, similar in taste to Sambuca or Ouzo, that is served with a few lumps of sugar and a small pitcher of cold water to dilute the liquor. It is traditionally enjoyed on very hot days, and as such is more popular in the south of the country but available more or less everywhere.

There is a variety of bottled water, including:

Évian, Thonon, Contrex, Volvic: mineral water

Perrier: fizzy water

Badoit: slightly fizzy and salty water.

Sleep[edit]

Short term rentals[edit]

Travellers should definitely consider short term villa/apartment/studio rentals as an alternative to other accommodations options. Short term can be as few as several days up to months at a stretch. Summer rentals are usually from Saturday to Saturday only (July & August). This type accommodation belongs to a private party, and can range from basic to luxurious. A particular advantage, aside from competitive prices, is that the accommodations come with fully fitted kitchens.

Hundreds of agencies offer accommodation for short term rentals on behalf of the owner, and can guide you into finding the best property, at the best price in the most suitable location for you. An internet search for the location and type of property you're looking for will usually return the names of several listing sites, each of which may have hundreds or thousands of properties for you to choose from. There are plenty of sites in both English and French, and the rental properties may be owned by people of any nationality.

France is a diverse and colourful country, and you'll find everything from stunning log chalets in the Alps, Chateaux in the countryside and beach front villas on the Riviera...plus everything in between!

Hotels[edit]

Hotels come in 5 categories from 1 to 5 stars. This is the official rating given by the Ministry of Tourism, and it is posted at the entrance on a blue shield. Stars are awarded according to objective yet somewhat outdated administrative criteria (area of the reception hall, percentage of rooms with en suite bathroom...).

Rates vary according to accommodation, location and sometimes high or low season or special events.

As of 2004, the rate for a *** hotel listed in a reliable guidebook falls between €70 (cheap) and €110 (expensive) for a double without breakfast.

All hotels, by law, must have their rates posted outside (or visible from outside). Note that these are maximal rates: a hotel can always propose a lower rate in order to fill up its rooms. Bargaining is not the norm but you can always ask for a discount.

Hotels located in city centres or near train stations are often very small (15-30 rooms) which means that you should book ahead. Many newer hotels, business oriented, are found in the outskirts of cities and are sometimes larger structures (100 rooms or more); they may not be easy to reach with public transportation. The newer hotels are often part of national or international chains and have high standards. Many older hotels are now part of chains and provide standardized service but they retain their own atmosphere.

When visiting Paris, it is essential to stay in the city; there are cheaper tourism hotels in the suburbs, but these cater to groups in motor coaches; they will be hard to reach by public transportation.

Along the highways, at the entrance of cities, you find US-like motels ; they are very often reachable only by car. Some motels (e.g. Formule 1) have minimal service, if you come in late you find an ATM-like machine, using credit cards, which will deliver a code in order to reach your assigned room.

B & Bs and Gîtes[edit]

Throughout France, mainly in rural areas but also in towns and cities, you can find B&Bs and gîtes.

B&B's are known in French as "Chambres d'hôtes" and are generally available on a nightly basis. By law, breakfast MUST be included in the advertised price for a "chambre d'hôte". Bear this in mind when comparing prices with hotels, where breakfast is NOT included in the room price.

Gites or gites ruraux are holiday cottages, and generally rented out as a complete accommodation unit including a kitchen, mostly on a weekly basis. There are very few near or in the cities. Finding them requires buying a guide or, for greater choice, using the internet, as you will not find a lot of signposts on the road.

Traditionally, gites provided basic good value accommodation, typically adjacent to the owners household or in a nearby outbuilding. More recently the term has been extended, and can now be used to describe most country-based self-catering accommodation in France. Hence it includes accommodation as varied as small cottages villas with private swimming pools.

During peak summer months the best self-catering gites require booking several months in advance.

There are thousands of B&Bs and gites in France rented out by foreign owners, particularly British and Dutch, and these tend to be listed, sometimes exclusively, with English-language or international organisations and websites that can be found by keying the words "chambres d'hotes", "gites" or "gites de france" into any of the major search engines.

There is a large number of organisations and websites offering "gites". Literally the French word gite just means a place to spend the night; however it now largely used to describe rental cottages or self-catering holiday homes, usually in rural parts of France.

Gîtes de France[edit]

A France-wide cooperative organisation, Gites de France regroups on a voluntary basis more than 50,000 rural accommodations and was the first in France to offer a consistent rating system with comprehensive descriptions.

Despite the name, Gites de France offers B&B as well as holiday rental (gite) accommodation.

The "Gites de France" rating system uses wheat stalks called Epis (equivalent to stars), based on amenities rather than quality - though generally the two go together.

Through its website, bookings can be done directly with owners or through the local Gîtes de France booking agency (no extra fee for the traveler). Although an English language version is available for many of the website pages, for some departments the pages giving details of an individual gite are only in French.

There is no particular advantage in using Gites de France rather than one of the other online gites sites, or booking directly with a gite. The procedure is pretty standard for all gite booking sites, whether French or foreign - with the advantage that absolutely all the booking process can be done in English if you use an English-language portal, which is not always the case with Gites de France.

After making a gite booking you will receive, by post, a contract to sign (gites only). Sign and return one copy. When signing write the words "Read and approved", and the name of your home town, before signing and dating the contract. You will normally be asked to pay a deposit of a quarter to a third of the booking fee. The rest will be required one month before the start of your holiday. When you arrive at the gite a security deposit, specified in the contact, should be given to the owner in cash. This will be returned at the end of your stay, less any fuel charges and breakages.

Another great resource for booking Gites and Villas in France is Holiday France Direct, It enables you to deal directly with the property owners and offers customers discounted ferry travel with Brittany Ferries.

Gîtes d'étape[edit]

Another possibility is gîtes d'étape. These are more like overnight stays for hikers, like a mountain hut. They are mostly cheaper than the Gîtes de France but also much more basic.

Camping[edit]

Camping is very common in France. Most campsite are a little way out of the city centre and virtually all cater not just for tents but for Camper Vans/Caravans also. While all campsites have the basic facilities of Shower/toilet blocks, larger sites tend to offer a range of additional facilities such as bars and restaurants, self-service laundries, swimming pools or bicycle hire.

All campsites except for very small "farm camping" establishments must be registered with the authorities, and are officially graded using a system of stars.

In coastal areas, three-star and four-star campgrounds must generally be booked in advance during the months of July and August, and many people book from one year to the next. In rural areas, outside of popular tourist spots, it is usually possible to show up unannounced, and find a place; this is particularly true with the municipal campsites that can be found in most small towns; though even then it may be advisable to ring up or email in advance to make sure. There are always exceptions.

In France it's forbidden to camp:

in woods, natural, regional and national parks

on public roads and streets

on the seaside

less than 200m from watering place used for human consumption

on natural protected sites

less than 500m from a protected monument

everywhere where it's forbidden by local laws

on private properties without the owner's consent.

Complaints[edit]

If you have complained to your hotel/accommodation provider and remain dissatisfied, you can request the assistance of the Tourism Mediator (MTV Médiation Tourisme Voyage) [65].

Learn[edit]

France, of course, is the best place to acquire, maintain and develop your French. A number of institutions offer a variety of courses for travellers.

SOFI 64 in Biarritz (South West) offers a special program for adults: French & Surf. Students can learn French and enjoy surfing in one of the most beautiful regions in France.

Work[edit]

If you are by law required to obtain a visa or other type of authorisation to work and fail to do so, you risk possible arrest, prosecution, expulsion and prohibition from reentering France and the Schengen area.

Citizens of EU and EEA countries (save from some Eastern European countries, for a temporary period) and Switzerland can work in France without having to secure a work permit. Most non-EU citizens will need a work permit - however, some non-EU citizens (such as Canadians, New Zealanders, etc) do not require a visa or work permit to work during their 90 day visa-free period of stay in France (see the 'Get in' section above for more information).

If you are an EU citizen or from an EEA country and want to earn money to continue travelling, Interim agencies (e.g. Adecco, Manpower) are a good source of temporary jobs. You can also consider working in bars, restaurants, and/or nightclubs (they are often looking for English-speaking workers, particularly those restaurants in tourist areas - fast-food restaurants such as McDonald's and Quick are also always looking for people).

A lot of "student jobs", if you happen to be in a big city, are also available for younger travelers, and foreigners are often very welcome. Such jobs include, for example, giving private English lessons, taking care of young children or many other things...check out the university buildings, they often have a lot of advertisements. An easy way to find job offers in France is to use the Jobted France search engine.

Don't forget that being an English speaker is a big advantage when you're looking for a job - French employers really have a problem finding English-speaking workers. Do note, however, that it will be much easier for you if you know a bit of French, for the same reason (your colleagues are not likely to speak English). However, don't overestimate your chances of finding work; there are a lot more people looking for jobs than there are jobs - except those unattractive jobs that no-one wants to do.

The French work market tends to operate through personal contacts - if you know someone that works somewhere, you can probably figure out quite an easy way to work at that place too. It always helps to know people living in the area you wish to work.

Stay safe[edit]

Crimes[edit]

Crime-related emergencies can be reported to the toll-free number 17. Law enforcement forces are the National Police (Police Nationale) in urban area and the Gendarmerie in rural area, though for limited issues such as parking and traffic offenses some towns and villages also have a municipal police.

Even if France is a low-crime area, the murder rate is about the double of the surrounding countries and large cities are plagued with the usual woes. Violent crime against tourists or strangers is rare, but there is pickpocketing and purse-snatching.

The inner city areas and a few select suburbs are usually safe at all hours. In large cities, especially Paris, there are a few areas which are better to avoid. Parts of the suburban are sometimes grounds for youth gang violent activities and drug dealing; however these are almost always far from touristic points and you should have no reason to visit them. Common sense applies: it is very easy to spot derelict areas.

The subject of crime in the poorer suburbs is very touchy as it may easily have racist overtones, since many people associate it with working-class youth of North African origin. You should probably not express any opinion on the issue.

Usual caution apply for tourists flocking around sights as they may become targets for pickpockets. A usual trick is to ask tourists to sign fake petitions and give some money, which is a way to put pressure on the victim. Stay away from people requesting money without any organization badge.

While it is not compulsory for French citizens to carry identification, they usually do so. Foreigners should carry some kind of official identity document. Although random checks are not the norm you may be asked for an ID in some kinds of situations, for example if you cannot show a valid ticket when using public transportation; not having one in such cases will result in you being taken to a police station for further checks. Even if you feel that law enforcement officers have no right to check your identity (they can do so only in certain circumstances), it is a bad idea to enter a legal discussion with them; it is better to put up with it and show ID. Again, the subject is touchy as the police have often been accused of targeting people according to criteria of ethnicity (e.g. délit de sale gueule = literally "crime of a dirty face" but perhaps equivalent to the American "driving while black.")

Due to the terrorist factor, police, with the help of military units, are patrolling monuments, the Paris subway, train stations and airports. Depending on the status of the "Vigipirate" plan (anti terrorist units) it is not uncommon to see armed patrols in those areas. The presence of police is of help for tourists, as it also deters pickpockets and the like. However, suspicious behaviour, public disturbances etc., may result in policemen asking to see an ID.

In France, failing to offer assistance to 'a person in danger' is illegal. This means that if you fail to stop upon witnessing a motor accident, fail to report such an accident to emergency services, or ignore appeals for help or urgent assistance, you may be charged. Penalties include suspended prison sentence and fines. The only exception to this law is if assistance would put you in danger.

LGBT support varies depending on the location and you should tread lightly in areas with larger Muslim populations such as Besancon and Paris. LGBT have been attacked for their orientation and discrimination still exists. Rural areas are especially areas you should be careful in. But if you see many people who are also LGBT, it's most likely safe. If not, keep it private or you could be in danger. LGBT are encouraged to use discretion.

Controlled substances[edit]

Carrying or using narcotic substances, from marijuana to hard drugs, is illegal whatever the quantity. The penalty can be severe especially if you are suspected of dealing. Trains and cars coming from countries which have a more lenient attitude (like the Netherlands) are especially targeted. Police have often been known to stop entire coaches and search every passenger and their bags thouroughly just because they're coming from Amsterdam.

France has a liberal policy with respect to alcohol (except when it come to driving under influence); there are usually no ID checks for purchasing alcohol (unless you look much younger than 18). However, causing problems due to public drunkenness is a misdemeanor and may result in a night in a police station. Drunk driving is a severe offense and may result in heavy fines and jail sentences.

A little etiquette note: while it is common to drink beer straight from the bottle at informal meetings, doing the same with wine is normally only done by tramps (clochards).

Judaism[edit]

Anti-Semitism has become a serious problem in French society. There have been a recent spate of terrorist attacks targeting Jews and Jewish institutions. The French government has thus far refused to acknowledge the severity of the problem and has taken minimal action to protect France's Jewish community. Jews should exercise caution when going out in public wearing religious attire, particularly at night. If you feel endangered, then dial 17 and ask for the police.

Stay healthy[edit]

Tap water[edit]

Tap water (Eau du robinet) is drinkable, except in rare cases such as rural rest areas and sinks in train bathrooms, in which case it will be clearly signposted as Eau non potable. However, many french people do not like drinking tap water due to beliefs of how clean tap water is. Most dinner tables will be supplied with a few bottles of water, like Evian or Cristalline. Eau potable is potable water. (You may, however, not like the taste which may be chlorinated, bottled water is common.)

Medical help[edit]

The health care in France is of a very high standard.

Pharmacies in France are denoted by a green cross, usually in neon. They sell medicines, contraceptives, and often beauty and related products (though these can be very expensive). Medicines must be ordered from the counter, even non-prescription medicines. The pharmacist is able to help you about various medicines and propose you generic drugs.

Since drug brand names vary across countries even though the effective ingredients stay the same, it is better to carry prescriptions using the international nomenclature in addition to the commercial brand name. Prescription drugs, including oral contraceptives (aka "the pill"), will only be delivered if a doctor's prescription is shown.

In addition, supermarkets sell condoms (préservatifs) and also often personal lubricant, bandages, disinfectant and other minor medical item. Condom machines are often found in bar toilets, etc.

Medical treatment can be obtained from self-employed physicians, clinics and hospitals. Most general practitioners, specialists (e.g. gynecologists), and dentists are self-employed; look for signs saying Docteur (médecine générale is general practitioner). The normal price for a consultation with a general practitioner is €23, though some physicians charge more (this is the full price and not a co-payment). Physicians may also do home calls, but these are more expensive.

Residents of the European Union are covered by the French social security system, which will reimburse or directly pay for 70% of health expenses (30% co-payment) in general, though many physicians and surgeons apply surcharges. Other travellers are not covered and will be billed the full price, even if at a public hospital; non-EU travellers should have travel insurance covering medical costs.

Emergencies[edit]

Hospitals will have an emergency room signposted Urgences.

The following numbers are toll-free:

15 Medical emergencies

17 Law enforcement emergencies (for e.g. reporting a crime)

18 Firefighters

112 European standard emergency numbers.

Operators at these numbers can transfer requests to other services if needed (e.g. some medical emergencies may be answered by firefighter groups).

Smoking[edit]

Smoking is prohibited by law in all enclosed spaces accessible to the public (this includes train and subway cars, train and subway station enclosures, workplaces, restaurants and cafés) unless in areas specifically designated for smoking, and there are few of these. There was an exception for restaurants and cafés, but since the 1st January 2008, the smoking ban law is also enforced there. You may face a fine of €68 if you are found smoking in these places.

Smoking is banned in métro and trains, as well as enclosed stations. Subway and train conductors do enforce the law and will fine you for smoking in non-designated places; if you encounter problems with a smoker in train, you may go find the conductor.

As hotels are not considered as public places, some offer smoking vs non-smoking rooms.

Only people over the age 18 may purchase tobacco products. Shopkeepers may request a photo ID.

Respect[edit]

The French adhere to a strong set of values. They cherish their culture, history, language and cuisine, which is considered an art. Once gained acquaintance, the French become warm, sincere and welcoming.

The French are often criticised by many visitors and tourists alike for being "rude" and/or "arrogant", but this is infact a very common misunderstanding. Communication, like in many parts of Europe, tends to be direct, and small-talk is widely ignored unless there is an absolutely necessity for it. It's very uncommon for strangers to communicate with one another, especially on public transportation.

It's worth noting that France is one of very few countries in the world where offering assistance or a helping hand is almost non-existent, and the French in general have very little patience with those that do. For instance, it's common to be dismissed for asking someone on the streets to take a photograph of you. Do not try and take this personally as this is simply a cornerstone of French culture.

Social Etiquette[edit]

The French in general are straightforward. In many cases you can expect to be given straight answer if you've done something inappropriate. This style comes as overly blunt and/or assertive, but do not take any offence to this.

The French in general tend to air negative feedback quite directly. Although it may seem like you're in the company of people that are constantly dissatisfied with almost everything, perhaps yourself, do not take this personally in any way as it is not intended to make you feel bad about yourself. Exigency is so deeply embedded into French society, that some may not even think about what they say. Remember that they are just as critical of themselves.

The French value their privacy. Asking about someone's age, salary and other personal questions is considered quite rude, especially if you're not very close to them. It's worth noting that the French like to separate their personal and business lives. For this reason, never call a French person at home unless it is an urgent matter.

The French are reserved with those they do not know very well. For this reason, one may assume that the French are a grumpy and grim folk that never smile, but it's largely because the desire to engage in small talk and niceties is seldom engaged in. Smiling at a stranger, especially if it's someone you don't know, is often perceived as superficial and invasive. Once you do get to know someone, you'll find them to be more open and candid.

The French do not like to tell punchline jokes. One may share interesting, humorous life experiences, but telling punchline jokes isn't very well received in France.

Never be loud in a public place. The French have a marvellous and intimately quiet way of communicating with one another, and it is best to follow suit with this to avoid standing out like a sore thumb. It's not unheard of for people to tell others off for being loud.

Always exchange pleasantries wherever you go. It is prudent to exchange greetings wherever you go in public, wait for them to reply and make your request for anything that you may need. Not doing so can cause offence. In a shop, it's good form to always ask the shopkeeper(s) to take items from the shelf as opposed to picking something up yourself, and always have them guide you around if you're just exploring. It's best to follow suit with this to avoid standing out like a sore thumb. It's not unheard of for people to be dismissed for having poor etiquette in the service industry.

Make an attempt to speak in French before speaking in English. The French are very proud of their diverse language, and in many cases you'll find that people will become noticeably aloof if you approach them speaking English instead of French. Start a conversation in French, and then ask if someone speaks English. The French know their language is a difficult one to learn, and they don't expect you to be fluent in it. Whatever efforts you make will be warmly and genuinely appreciated.

Always be punctual for any meeting and appointment. As in many other countries in Europe, The French pride themselves on punctuality. Being late to any meeting or appointment is considered impolite and unprofessional. If you're going to be late to something, be sure to apologise and explain the situation. This said, the further you go south in the country, the more flexible time is.

Home Etiquette[edit]

If you are invited to somebody's home, bring them a small gift as a form of respect. Take some biscuits for coffee, some cake or desserts, and you’ll be warmly and genuinely received. A gift should be of high quality. Avoid giving gifts with your company logo stamped on them as it considered garish.

Never ask your hosts to give you a tour of their home. It's considered rude manners, even if it is not your intention.

Dining Etiquette[edit]

Never leave your phone on the table. It's considered very rude manners.

Never be impatient with waiters at restaurants. It's important to bear in mind that waiting is a revered profession in France, and people have to go through lots of training to become one. You're not obligated to tip waiters, but you can if you wish.

Never ask your food to be separated into individual parts. In France, people strive to deliver the best experience wherever possible, and asking your food to be separated may offend or upset some.

Never discuss business when eating out. The French dislike to talk about work and business when eating out, and it's more of a time to enjoy good food, wine and discussion.

Never eat unless everyone has been asked to. Eating immediately is seen as impolite.

Métro Etiquette[edit]

The Métro subway system is a great way to get around Paris (or Lyon, Marseille, et al.), which is readily apparent in the throngs of people that use it to go to work, school, and the like. If you do not ride the train at home, or if you come from a place that doesn't have a subway system, there are certain points of etiquette that you may not be aware of.

When boarding at the station, let those exiting the train step off onto the platform before boarding, and once aboard move to the centre of the car. If you have luggage, move it as far out of the path of others as possible (on the RER B to Charles de Gaulle airport, use the luggage racks above the seats instead). Certain stations have moving sidewalks to cover the distances between platforms - walk on the left and stand on the right.

Do note that the doors on French subway cars don't generally open automatically once the train has stopped at the station; rather, most cars have a small button or lever on the doors that opens them. If you should happen to be standing near the door in a crowded car you might hear someone behind you say "la porte, s'il vous plait," which means that person would like to get off the train and is asking you to open the door for him/her. Pop the door open and step aside (or down onto the platform) while that person exits the train - the driver will wait for you to get back on.

Dressing Etiquette[edit]

Dress codes are fast disappearing, but if you want to avoid looking like a tourist, then avoid white sneakers, baseball caps, tracksuit pants, shorts and flip-flops (except at the beach). Generally speaking, business casual dress code is sufficient in cities and in all but the most formal occasions.

When it comes to women's urban wear, very short skirts, largely open cleavage, or ostensibly sexy clothing in general, is considered poor taste in France, especially in the colder climates of northern France (including Paris). Women dressing this way taking public transportation or walking in the street to a club, may be heckled on the way, or get looks of disapproval.

Usual courtesy applies when entering churches, and although you may not be asked to leave, it is better to avoid short pants and halter tops.

Some restaurants will frown if you come in dressed for trekking but very few will insist upon a jacket and tie. You may be surprised by the number of French twenty-somethings who show up at a grungy bar in jacket and tie, even if obviously from a thrift-shop.

Beaches and swimming pools (in hotels) are used for getting a tan. Taking off your bra will not usually create a stir if you don't mind a bevy of oglers. Taking off the bottom part is reserved to designated nude beaches. People on beaches are usually not offended by a young boy or girl undressed. Most resort cities insist on your wearing a shirt when leaving the beach area. Many pools will not allow baggy or "board" swim trunks, insisting on snug fitting speedo type trunks.

Things to Avoid[edit]

Politics:

Unless you really follow French news closely, you should probably steer clear of discussing internal French politics as you may come across as judgemental and uninformed. Don't be discouraged from engaging in political discussions with French people, just be aware of the position that being a foreigner puts you in. It is also considered rude to ask a person point-blank about which candidate he/she voted for in the last election (or will vote for in the next); instead, talk about the issues and take it from there.

Religion:

The French seldom advertise their religious feelings, however, and expect you to avoid doing so as well. Doing so might make people feel uneasy and/or uncomfortable. It is also generally considered impolite to inquire about religious or other personal issues. While France has barred religious symbols from public places including Sikh turban, Islamic hijab and Jewish kippah on grounds of secularism, this controversial topic is best avoided in polite conversations. People practicing those faiths need to be aware of the unfriendly attitudes that some in France hold to expression of religion in public places.

Money:

You should also avoid presenting yourself through what you own, as it may make the French lose their respect and appreciation of you. It is also considered to rude to discuss your salary, or to ask someone else directly about theirs. Finances are a strictly private matter.

Contact[edit]

Emergency[edit]

The pan-European emergency number is 112. This number does not substitue for the following emergency numbers.

Other emergency numbers are :

15 for medical aid, SAMU in french, will provide help in case of a medical emergency or help if you are feeling seriously unwell,

17 for the police or gendarmerie, if you require the intervention of law enforcement officers (assault, theft, car accident, burglary, etc.)

18 for fire and rescue, pompiers in french, generally regarded by the French as the general emergency number, for both fire and medical emergencies,

117 (text and fax only) for the deaf, hard of hearing, or if you cannot speak, either due to a disability or due to a specific situations (domestic violence, shooting, etc.),

196 for any emergency in which a human life is at risk at sea (man over board, boat in distress, someone drifting out to sea, etc.).

These calls are free and accessible from virtually any phone, including locked cellphones. In case of a serious emergency, if you find a code-protected cellphone, enter a random code three times: the phone will lock, but you will be able to dial emergency numbers.

It is worth noting that all the emergency services are connected. It is not unusual, for exemple, to call the 18 for a broken leg, and be redirected to the 15 (although the contrary can also be true).

Although the 112 operator will be able to answer you in English, it is not guaranteed that a translator will be available for your native language. In any case the most important thing to do when you call any emergency service is to :

stay calm, speak (even in broken french or in english) slowly and make sure to listen to the operator,

communicate the precise location (street, hotel name, city, apartment number, etc.) and the nature of the emergency,

indicate if the situation can worsen or if it is stable,

never hang-up first, always wait for the operator to hang-up or ask if you can hang-up.

All the calls to the emergency services are recorded, and your phone number and GPS location (if you have a smartphone)will be transmitted to the operator. Prank calling any emergency service is an offense. If you mistakenly call an emergency service, do not hang-up. Just wait and tell the operator your mistake. Otherwise, you might receive a visit from the police to check on you.

French phone numbers[edit]

To call a French number from abroad, dial: international prefix + 33 + local number without the leading 0.

For example: +33 247 664 118

All French numbers have 10 digits. The first two digits are:

01 for the Parisian region

02 for the Northwest

03 for the Northeast

04 for the Southeast

05 for the Southwest

06 for cellphones

07 for cellphones since 2010.

08 have special prices (infuriatingly, from free of charge to very costly indeed - Skype numbers start with 08). A rule of thumb to know the price is as follow: the lower the next 2 numbers are, the cheaper the price is (a number beginning with 0800 is free from a landline, while a number beginning with 0892 will cost extra).

09 if they are attached to Voice over IP telephones connected to DSL modems from French DSL providers that integrate such functions.

When speaking phone numbers, people will usually group the digits by sets of two. For example, 02 47 66 41 18 will be said as "zero two, forty-seven, sixty-six, forty-one, eighteen" (but in French, of course). The two-digit pair 00 is said as "zero zero", not "double zero". for example if your phone number is 02 47 66 41 18 in France, it would be said as "zéro deux, quarante-sept, soixante-six, quarante et un, dix-huit." Difficulties can arise when numbers between 60 and 99 exist in the phone number, as the French word for seventy, "soixante dix" literally means "sixty ten", the word for eighty, "quatre-vingt" means "four-twenty" and ninety, "quatre-vingt-dix" means "four-twenty-ten". So when giving a number such as "72", you might hear "soixante", start writing a 6, and have to correct yourself when the number turns out to be "soixante-douze".

If you find it too hard to follow, you may ask the person to say the number digit-by-digit ("chiffre par chiffre"). It would then be "zero, two, four, seven,

six, six, four, one, one, eight" ("zéro, deux, quatre, sept, six, six, quatre, un, un, huit").

You can to visit International Dial Code Directory to find instructions about the nationals and internationals calls.

Toll-free[edit]

There are few companies that provide toll-free numbers (starting with 08 00) but many have numbers starting with 081, for which you pay the cost of a local call regardless of where you are in the country.

Numbers starting with 089 are heavily surcharged. They provide service to some legitimate businesses but the ones you see advertised all over the country are usually for adult services.

Beware of any phone number shorter than 10 digits if it is not an official number. Usually, the number will be followed with a mention such as numero vert (free to call) or numero crystal (same price as a general 10 digit phone number, fixed by your carrier). If the mention is absent, you should assume the number is heavily surcharged.

Cheap international calls[edit]

Dial-around services are directly available from any landline in France. No contract, no registration is required. Most dial-around services allows you to call USA, Canada, Western Europe and many other countries at local rate (tarif local) so you can easily save on your phone bill. They also work from payphones, though the first minute is surcharged by France Telecom.

You can also use Viber, WhatsApp, FaceTime using your phone and a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. This is probably one of the cheapest solutions for travellers in France.

Fixed line[edit]

To find out how to get a landline (ligne fixe) in France Just Landed gives more information on the subject of French landline providers. Another method, if you are staying for a long period, is to use VoIP over DSL, such as the Livebox or Freebox service (free long distance calls within France and to a number of countries).

Public call boxes[edit]

Phone booths are available in train or subway stations, bus stops, near tourist attractions, etc. There is at least one phone booth in every village (look on the main plaza). Due to the widespread use of mobile phones, there are now fewer booths than a few years ago. Most use a card (no coins). France Télécom public phones accept CB/Visa/MasterCard cards but almost always only with a microchip. Otherwise, post offices, café-tabacs (recognizable by a red sign hanging outside), and stores that sell magazines sell phone cards. Ask for a "carte telephonique"; these come with differing units of credit, so you may want to specify "petit" if you just want to make a short local call or two. If you get the kind with a computer chip in it, you just have to slide it into the phone, listen for the dial tone, and dial. The US-style cards require you to dial a number and then enter a code (but with spoken instructions in French).

Mobile[edit]

France uses the GSM standard of cellular phones (900MHz and 1800MHz bands) used in most of the world outside of the US. There are 4 'physical' network operators in France: Orange, SFR, Bouygues Télecom and Free Mobile. Other providers are mobile virtual operators based on Orange, SFR or Bouygues Télécom. France is almost totally covered but you may have difficulties using your mobile phone in rural or mountainous areas. However, for emergency numbers, the four companies are required by law to accept your call if they technically can, even if you are not one of their customers, thus maximizing your chance of being helped even in areas with spotty service.

If you are staying for some time in France it is advisable to buy a prepaid SIM card for your phone so that incoming calls are free. Additionally, French businesses and individuals are unlikely to want to call an international number to get hold of you as there will be a surcharge to them.

Most service providers such as (Orange, SFR and Bouygues Telecom) supply SIM cards in shops; for instance Orange promotes Orange holiday, which allows you to use 120 international minutes and 1000 texts within all Europe + 1GB data in France for about €40. The plan can be purchased quite easily in Orange shops.

But be aware that the credit expires when you do not top-up.

If you want to sort out your phone before you leave, LeFrenchMobile provides a prepaid service for foreigners coming to France. You do not always need identification at the point-of-purchase but you need to be have your personal details (including an address: your hotel address will do) in-hand to activate the service, even on prepaid lines. Another company that can help you efficiently sort out your international sim card needs is TravelSim. Their prepaid sim card is one of the cheapest on the market and, since it is a callback service, your can save up to 85% on your roaming charges. Additionally, all incoming sms and Skype calls are free on TravelSim numbers. With this sim card you can easily make phone calls in France and when you go outside of the country.

The vas majority of mainland France is covered by 4G/LTE. Bigger cities are starting to get 5G coverage. You can check the French regulation authority for radio communications website for a coverage map of France.

Lebara offer relatively cheap pre-pay data plans. (€8 for 1GB) If your phone doesn't access the internet correctly you may need to manually set your phones' "access point name" username/pass to web/web.

Internet[edit]

Internet cafes[edit]

Internet access is available at cyber cafes in large and medium-sized cities all over. Service is usually around €4 per hour. However, with most homes now wired for the internet, cyber cafes are increasingly hard to find, especially outside the major cities.

Residential broadband[edit]

In all major cities, there are multiple companies offering residential broadband service. Typical prices are €30 a month for unmetered ADSL (in speeds up to 24 megabits per second), digital HDTV over DSL and free unlimited voice-over-IP phone calls to land lines within France and about twenty other countries (EU,US,...) with external SIP access too (the price includes a modem/routeur/switch with integrated Wi-Fi MiMo access point). Broadband services are very common in France, all over the country.

For long-term stays, getting internet access without contract is vital and CCTechnician is a popular choice with ExPats.

Wi-Fi[edit]

You'll also find Wi-Fi access in a lot of cafés usually those labelled a bit "trendy". There will be a sign on the door or on the wall. Also look for the @ symbol prominently displayed, which indicates internet availability. In Paris, one popular Wi-Fi free spot is the Pompidou Centre. There is talk that the city intends to become the first major European capital providing free Wi-Fi coverage for the whole city. Public parks and libraries in Paris are also covered.

Mobile Internet Access[edit]

MOXX.fr provides secure high quality internet network via pocket Wi-Fi rental on a short term basis for affordable prices. This service is powered by a main French internet provider.

Post[edit]

Post offices are found in all cities and villages but their time of operation vary. In the main cities the downtown office may be open during lunchtime, typically 09:00-18:00. Most offices are only open on Saturday morning and there is only one office in Paris which is open 24/7 (in rue du Louvre).

Letter boxes are yellow.

Parcels[edit]

International delivery services like FedEx, UPS, are available in cities, however you generally have to call them for them to come to you as they have very few physical locations.

Another option is to simply use La Poste with a wide network around the country and the same services as its competitors.

Cope[edit]

Toilets are available in restaurants, cafés; there are also public facilities, which generally charge a fee. Note that American euphemisms such as "restroom", "washroom" etc. will often not be understood; ask for "toilets". In older public facilities, particularly those that do not charge or isolated rest areas, you may encounter squat toilets. Make sure you have some toilet paper with you as this is not always available.

Beware that restaurants, shops and cafes, especially in bigger cities, will often deny you access to the restroom if you are not a client.

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France Country Profile - National Geographic Kids

Skip to contentSearchShopGamesPuzzlesActionFunny Fill-InVideosAmazing AnimalsWeird But True!Party AnimalsTry This!AnimalsMammalsBirdsPrehistoricReptilesAmphibiansInvertebratesFishExplore MoreMagazinehistoryScienceSpaceU.S. StatesWeird But True!SubscribemenuPlease be respectful of copyright. Unauthorized use is prohibited.Please be respectful of copyright. Unauthorized use is prohibited.Please be respectful of copyright. Unauthorized use is prohibited.Please be respectful of copyright. Unauthorized use is prohibited.Please be respectful of copyright. Unauthorized use is prohibited.1 / 51 / 5The Champs-Élysées is one of many streets that radiate from the Arc de Triomphe monument in Paris.The Champs-Élysées is one of many streets that radiate from the Arc de Triomphe monument in Paris.Photograph by Giancarlo Liguori, DreamstimeFranceFrance, the largest country in Western Europe, has long been a gateway between the continent's northern and southern regions.Fast FactsOFFICIAL NAME: French RepublicFORM OF GOVERNMENT: RepublicCAPITAL: ParisPOPULATION: 67,364,357OFFICIAL LANGUAGE: FrenchMONEY: EuroAREA: 210,026 square miles (543,965 square kilometers)MAJOR MOUNTAIN RANGES: Alps, Pyrenees, Massif CentralMAJOR RIVERS: Seine, Rhine, and RhôneGEOGRAPHYPlease be respectful of copyright. Unauthorized use is prohibited.France, the largest country in Western Europe, has long been a gateway between the continent's northern and southern regions. Its lengthy borders touch Germany and Belgium in the north; the Atlantic Ocean in the west; the Pyrenees Mountains and Spain in the south.Wide fertile plains dominate most of the north and west, making France the agricultural epicenter of Europe. The sprawling, forested plateau of the Massif Central, a range of ancient mountains and extinct volcanoes, occupies France's southern interior.Map created by National Geographic MapsThe Eiffel Tower is one of Paris’s most famous attractions.

Photograph by Silvian Tomescu, DreamstimePlease be respectful of copyright. Unauthorized use is prohibited.PEOPLE & CULTUREFrance is one of the oldest nations on Earth and the most ethnically diverse country in Europe. These deep and broad influences have made France a world leader throughout history in nearly all aspects of culture, including cuisine, wine-making, politics, philosophy, music, art, film, fashion, literature, and sports.Please be respectful of copyright. Unauthorized use is prohibited.Please be respectful of copyright. Unauthorized use is prohibited.Left: French FlagRight: EurosPhotographs by Scanrail, DreamstimeNATUREFrance has ample land area to provide habitat for a wide variety of plants and animals. More than 25 percent of its territory is covered with forest, and another 50 percent is countryside or farmland.Lowland forests are home to deer and wild boar, while the woodlands of the Alps and Pyrenees provide refuge for rare chamois antelope, ibex, brown bears, and alpine hares, among many other species. The Mediterranean coastline is a stopover of millions of migrating African birds, including flamingos, vultures, egrets, and bee-eaters.The French government has made a broad commitment to preserving open spaces and the wildlife they contain. About 10 percent of the country has been set aside as national or regional parklands and nature reserves.Watch "Destination World"Watch "Destination World"Now Playing2:40AfricaUp Next2:47AntarcticaNow Playing2:38AsiaNow Playing2:55AustraliaNow Playing3:14EuropeNow Playing3:19North AmericaNow Playing2:42South AmericaMore to exploreCountriesU.S. states and territories facts and photosGet facts and photos of the U.S. states and territories, and the District of Columbia.HabitatsLearn about the different natural environments of plants and animals.Destination WorldOur Earth is amazing! It’s made up of 7 huge landmasses called continents and each one is unique from the others. From the deserts of Africa to mega cities of Asia, watch as we explore the coolest places and most interesting facts about each of our continents.LegalTerms of UsePrivacy PolicyYour California Privacy RightsChildren's Online Privacy PolicyInterest-Based AdsAbout Nielsen MeasurementDo Not Sell My InfoOur SitesNational GeographicNational Geographic EducationShop Nat GeoCustomer ServiceJoin UsSubscribeManage Your Subscription Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic SocietyCopyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

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