Last updated on September 24th, 2022

Visit France – Plan Your Trip

Visit Chamonix
Visit Mont St-Michel
Visit Nice
Visit Paris
Visit Strasbourg

Best Time to Visit France

The summer months of June – September are the best time to visit France, but spring and fall offer a chance to avoid the height of the tourist season.

France – Visa Requirements

France participates in the Schengen Zone and Schengen Visa requirements. There are no border inspections by rail or vehicle when traveling from France to Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Luxembourg or Belgium. Some countries that are not members of the Schengen Zone require a Schengen Visa to enter Europe. Exemptions include citizens of Australia, Canada, Mexico, Japan, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States. For a list of exempt countries and requirements, refer to Project Visa or check your specific country at VisaHQ.

France – Currency

France uses the Euro as its currency, just like quite a few other countries in Europe. Neighboring countries to France that also use the Euro include Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Italy and Spain. If you travel to the neighboring country of Switzerland, they don’t use the Euro.

Visit France – Electrical Adapters

The Europlug Type C electrical adapter is what you will need to keep your phones and cameras charged when you Visit France. Your electrical adapter for France will work in most European countries.

Rhône-Rhine Canal, Alsace, Canal Boating France

Rhône-Rhine Canal, Alsace, © Can Stock Photo / electropower

Canal Boating France – So Many Waterways

It’s surprising to learn that there are so many waterways for Canal Boating France.  You can easily captain your own boat.  Many places give you brief instructions and let you drive away in a barge a few minutes later.  No license is required.  With accommodation for 2 – 6 passengers and no crew, this option is far less expensive than the traditional river cruises on major waterways.

Canal du Midi, Canal Boating France

Canal du Midi, © Can Stock Photo / paulprescott72

Canal Boating France – Canal des Deux Mers

The Canal des Deux Mers (Canal of Two Seas) in southern France is comprised of the Canal du Midi and the Canal de Garonne.

The Canal du Midi is the most popular canal boat cruise in France.  It runs 150 miles (240 km) from Toulouse to the Mediterranean.  There are two options to access the Mediterranean.  One is south through Narbonne and the other is east through Beziers.  Beziers marks the start of the Camargue canal area of saltwater lagoons and beaches.  Pass through the Etang de Thau along the Mediterranean and then continue along the Canal du Rhône.

The Canal de Garonne covers 120 miles (200 km) from Toulouse north to Castets-en-Dorthe through the Aquitaine canal area.  Enjoy fine dining in this region.  From Castets-en-Dorthe the Garonne continues on to Bordeaux and the Atlantic.

Chambord Castle, Loire Valley, Canal Boating France

Chambord Castle, Loire Valley, © Can Stock Photo / phbcz

Canal Boating France – Other Major Canals

the Loire Valley – a series of canals in central France just south of Paris.  The Loire is famous for its châteaux and Roman towns.  See the famous Châteaux de Chambord at the river’s edge.

Nivernais – the River Yonne in central France, near the Loire.  Have chablis and view ancient cathedrals.

Alsace-Lorraine – in northeast France.  This is a forested area at the border with Germany.

Burgundy – east France and the Saône River.  Known for its wines and vineyards.

Brittany – the Canal de Nantes a Brest in western France.  Enjoy seafood as you approach the Atlantic.

Charente – the Charente River in western France, north of Bordeaux. This area is famous for cognac.

Lot River – in southwestern France with medieval hilltop towns, vineyards and limestone cliffs along the Lot River.

Strasbourg, Alsace, Canal Boating France

Strasbourg, Alsace, © Can Stock Photo / StevanZZ

Canal Boating France – Rentals

Le Boat.com – the largest rental company with the greatest number of options.

Nicols

Locaboat Holidays