Your Essential France Travel Guide!
- Kita the Explorer
- Jun 17
- 7 min read
Dreaming of strolling along the Seine, indulging in delectable pastries, or exploring historic cities? France has a certain je ne sais quoi that captivates travelers from around the globe. As Kita the Explorer, I embarked on a journey through France, focusing on the vibrant cities of Marseille, Lyon, and Paris. Now, I'm thrilled to share my insights and tips to help you plan your own unforgettable French adventure! Forget sifting through endless forums and outdated guides – this is your one-stop resource for everything you need to know before you say "oui" to France.
First Things First: The Essentials for France Travel
Let's dive into the practicalities that will make your trip seamless.
Currency: Embrace the Euro
France operates on the Euro (€). Make sure to exchange your currency before you go, either through your bank, a service like Travelex, or at the airport upon arrival. While you might be tempted to ask if US dollars are accepted, trust me, you'll want to avoid that awkward moment! Credit and debit cards (Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted) are your best friend for most purchases, but it's always wise to have some Euros on hand for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available if you need more cash.
A Culinary Journey Through France
Prepare your taste buds for an extraordinary experience! Forget any rumors you might have heard about "bad" French food. In reality, France boasts incredible regional specialties and a deep appreciation for fresh, high-quality ingredients. Portion sizes might differ from what you're used to, but the focus is on savoring each flavorful bite.
Marseille: Situated along the Mediterranean coast, Marseille's cuisine is heavily influenced by seafood. Don't miss the iconic Bouillabaisse, a flavorful fish stew. You'll also find delightful North African influences – my first taste of Tunisian food here was a highlight!
Lyon: Known as the "Gastronomy Capital" of France, Lyon is a haven for food lovers. It proudly holds a significant number of Michelin-starred restaurants (over 20!). Even beyond the high-end dining, Lyon offers incredibly satisfying traditional fare. During a food tour, I devoured a local bread I couldn't get enough of, and you'll find plenty of delicious cheeses and cured meats.
Paris: While Paris offers a spectrum of high-end culinary experiences, including classic dishes like steak tartare, it's the simpler pleasures that often steal the show. You must indulge in a fresh croissant – and if you have the chance, take a baking class to learn the secrets behind this flaky perfection! Pastries in Paris are an absolute must.
When it comes to dining recommendations:
Paris: Be sure to check out Gumbo Yaya for some of the best chicken and waffles you'll ever have (and it's a Black-owned business!). Sacree Fleur is another restaurant known for a wonderful dining experience.
Marseille: For an authentic and heartwarming experience, head to Chez Yassine for incredible Tunisian cuisine that made me feel like part of the family.
Sadly, a restaurant recommendation in Lyon eludes me as the place I enjoyed seems to have disappeared. However, with its reputation as a culinary hub, you're sure to find countless gems to explore!
Getting Around: France at Your Fingertips
France boasts an excellent transportation system, making it easy to navigate between cities and within them.
Trains: Forget short-haul flights (there's actually a law in France discouraging flights under 2 hours where train alternatives exist!). The SNCF train network is extensive, efficient, and affordable. I personally traveled between Paris, Marseille, Arles, and Lyon by train without any issues. Booking through SNCF is straightforward and saves you time and the hassle of airports.
Catching the train at CDG Airport in Paris to Marseille Local Transit: Within cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille, you'll find excellent public transportation options.
Subways: Both Lyon and Paris have comprehensive and affordable metro systems. In Paris, pay attention to the zone system when purchasing tickets. Lyon's ticketing system seemed a bit less complex, and I found a day pass to be very convenient.
Ride-sharing: Uber and similar services are readily available in these cities
Buses: Buses operate throughout Marseille, Paris, and Lyon, often connecting seamlessly with metro stations.
Ferries: In Lyon, a charming ferry service crosses the port, offering a quick and scenic way to get around.
Cable Cars: Lyon also offers a funicular (cable car) ride up to the hilltop, included in the metro pass, offering stunning city views (weather permitting!).
Bikes & Walking: Rentable bikes are common, and walking is always a great way to explore!
Car Rental: While car rentals are an option, I personally don't tend to rent cars on vacation, so I don't have specific advice in this area.
Must-Do Experiences: Unforgettable Moments
Each city offers a unique flavor and a wealth of attractions. Here are some top recommendations from my recent travels:
Paris: Iconic Landmarks and Hidden Gems
Black Paris Tour: Gain a fascinating historical perspective and valuable navigation tips on this insightful tour.
Baking Class: Learn the art of the perfect croissant and savor the freshly baked results.
Kita the Explorer with the finished product in the Parisian baking class Notre Dame Cathedral: Witness the reopening of this iconic cathedral in 2024 – a symbol of resilience and history.
Speakeasies: Discover the hidden nightlife of Paris with a speakeasy tour (Mexcaleria was a fun stop!).
Museums Galore: From the world-renowned Louvre (go with a plan!) to the Musée d'Orsay and countless others, there's a museum for every interest.
Montparnasse Tower: For breathtaking panoramic views of Paris (including a fantastic shot of the Eiffel Tower!), skip the Eiffel Tower crowds and head here instead.
Lyon: History, Culture, and Views
Musée Lumière: Delve into the history of photography and the Lumière brothers' innovations.
Cable Car to the Mountain: Enjoy stunning views of Lyon from atop the hill, easily accessible with your metro pass.
Le Dôme: Experience the ambiance of a highly-rated bar with a diverse drink menu and even afternoon tea options.
Cocktail with snacks at Le Dôme Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon): Wander through cobblestone streets, admire the architecture, discover secret passageways, and find traditional Lyonnaise delicacies. Consider a food and walking tour here!
Marseille: Coastal Charm and Cultural Fusion
Food Tour: Immerse yourself in Marseille's diverse culinary scene, influenced by Mediterranean and North African flavors.
Château d'If: Take a boat trip to this historic island castle (I missed out on this due to travel fatigue, but it's highly recommended!).
Palais Longchamp: Explore this beautiful architectural site (originally built to bring water to the city) for free, perfect for photos and observing local life.
Kita the Explorer in front of Palais Longchamp The Port: Stroll along the bustling port, enjoy the sights of the boats, and dine at one of the many restaurants.
Navigating the Language: A Little Goes a Long Way
The official language of France is, of course, French. While I found that many people, especially in tourist areas, do speak English, it's incredibly respectful to learn a few basic French phrases. Even a simple "bonjour," "merci," or attempting to order in French can be greatly appreciated and might even lead to locals switching to English to assist you. Don't be afraid to try!
Finding Your Home Away From Home: Accommodation
Choosing the right place to stay can significantly enhance your travel experience. Here are my recommended hotels in each city:
Paris: Courtyard Marriott Gard de Lyon. Conveniently located near the Gare de Lyon train station with easy access to the metro. I've had wonderful experiences here on two separate stays.
Room at the Courtyard Marriott Gard de Lyon Lyon: Lyon Cité Internationale Marriott Hotel. Amazing staff and incredibly spacious rooms (I might have received an upgrade, though!). Easy access to public transportation and the surrounding area.
Room at the Lyon Cité Internationale Marriott Hotel Marseille: Holiday Inn Express Marseille St Charles. A great option for transit or a short stay, as it's very close to the train station. Offers convenient access to the old port and other parts of the city.
A Note on Safety: Awareness is Key
It's always wise to be aware of your surroundings when traveling.
Pickpockets: Particularly in Paris, be mindful of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas and near tourist attractions. Keep your bags secure in front of you and avoid keeping valuables in easily accessible pockets.
Scams: Be cautious of people approaching you near tourist sites with surveys or requests to see your phone – these can be common tactics for pickpocketing. It's best to politely decline and continue on your way.
Rats: While I never encountered rats in Paris, I was surprised by the number I saw in Marseille, particularly around the port in the evening. While they didn't bother me directly, it's something to be aware of.
Safety as a Solo Woman and a Black Traveler
As a solo African-American woman traveler, my experiences might differ from others. I felt generally safe walking around at night in Paris and Lyon. While I personally didn't experience overt racism, it's a known issue in France, and experiences can vary. It's important to be aware and prepared, and to connect with resources and other travelers who share similar experiences. My experiences should be taken as one perspective among many.
Beyond the Cities: Exploring Regional Gems
While Marseille, Lyon, and Paris are incredible, I highly encourage you to venture beyond the major cities to experience the diverse beauty of France.
Burgundy Wine Country: Indulge in wine tours and tastings in regions like Beaujolais.
Chateaux and Countryside: Discover stunning castles and charming villages.
Avignon: Explore the historic Palais des Papes and the delightful atmosphere of this smaller city.
Arles: Immerse yourself in this UNESCO World Heritage site, the inspiration for many of Van Gogh's paintings.
Nice: While I haven't visited yet, the French Riviera city of Nice is another popular destination.
Entry Requirements: Planning Ahead
From a US perspective, ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining upon your entry into France. For stays of 90 days or less within a six-month period for tourism, a visa is not currently required. However, keep an eye out for the potential implementation of the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System), expected late 2026, which will require a small fee for visa-exempt travelers.
Ready to Explore?
I truly hope this comprehensive France travel guide has provided you with valuable information and inspiration for your upcoming trip. There's so much more to discover in this beautiful country, but this should give you a fantastic head start.
Do you have any questions about traveling to France? Leave them in the comments below! I'll do my best to answer them or point you in the right direction. And if you have your own France travel tips to share, please do so in the comments (keep it classy!).
For a more visual journey and to see my experiences firsthand, be sure to check out my video guide on France!