Paris is so much more than a destination. It’s a feeling! From a heavenly croissant for breakfast to the sparkling Eiffel Tower at night, Paris wraps you in its spell the moment you arrive.
What is the true beauty of a Parisian getaway? You don’t have to stay within the 20 arrondissements to experience French charm. From champagne tastings to medieval ruins to lavender fields, this insider’s guide to Paris and beyond will help you pair the energy of the capital with a slower softer side of France.
Know Before You Go
France is for wandering. And, a little know-how goes a long way towards making our trip smoother.
Learn to Linger: France moves at its own rhythm, especially in Parisian cafes or quiet countryside towns. Meals are meant to be lingered over, so plan to settle in if you’re dining in a bistro or restaurant. Note that shops often close midday in rural areas and “rushing” is not really part of the French vocabulary. Take a breath, order the wine, and enjoy the slower pace for a change.
Stay Safe & Savvy: Paris is safe and walkable, though like any major city, it pays to stay alert in crowded areas. Keep your bag zipped and valuables close in tourist zones. A little French etiquette also goes a long way (especially in Paris), so brush on key phrases.
Currency & Tipping: France uses the Euro and credit cards are widely accepted. That said, it’s also smart to carry some cash for taxis, markets and tips. Speaking of tips: restaurants typically include service (“service compris”) in the bill. Rounding up or leaving a few extra Euros for great service is always appreciated.
Tech & Travel: You will need a type E plug adapter (230V) to charge your devices. The 24-hour clock is used; 17:00 is 5PM. Trains are faster and easier than flying between cities. France’s rail system is world-class, so take advantage of it!
Best Time to Visit: Like many European destinations, spring and fall (April – June and September – October) are the best times to visit. You’ll get milder weather, fewer tourists and plenty of festivals. Remember that many French locals take their “vacances” in August, so expect shops and restaurants in smaller towns to be closed if you travel this month.
Flying In:
Paris & Cernay-la-Ville: France’s main international gateway is Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), with flights to major cities across most continents. There is also a lot of international and intra-Europe flights into Paris’ second major airport, Paris Orly Airport (ORY).
Champagne: Most travelers will fly into Paris’ Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY) airports, then take a TGV train or drive to Champagne. The Chalons Vatry Airport (XCR) is a smaller regional airport with limited scheduled flights.
Lyon: Lyon-Saint Exupery Airport (LYS) is the main international airport offering direct flights from major European and global destinations.
Provence: Marseilles’ Provence Airport (MRS) is the largest in the area, with direct flights from major European and global cities. You’ll also final seasonal international flights to the U.S. at Nice Cote d’Azur Airport (NCE), the main airport to the French Riviera.
How Long to Stay: If you’re planning to combine Paris with another region, aim for at least seven days. This will give you time to soak in the best of both sides of France while keeping that laissez-faire attitude.
What to Wear: Parisians keep it polished and timeless. Pack stylish layers, comfy shoes for walking, and modest outfits for churches. In the countryside, aim for relaxed and refined — think breezy fabrics and classic neutrals .
Paris
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t need to be “sold” on Paris. It’s still worthwhile to note that this magical city equal parts everyday and extraordinary. You can spend your time wandering centuries-old museums, getting inspiration from the same streets as famous artists, or simply debating which treat at the patisserie is best.
What to Try
After you’ve sampled croissants and a baguette “tradition,” set your sights on classic French bistro fare. Try steak frites, duck confit, escargot, or a slice of rich opera cake. Sip a cafe’ creme in the morning and wind down with a glass of Bordeaux.
What to Do
In Paris, the possibilities are indeed endless. Beyond the phenomenal museums and beautiful cathedrals and churches, there are other unique things to do.
→ Cruise the Seine at the golden hour or zip through the hidden streets on a retro sidecar tour.
→ Take a pastry class and master the art of macarons.
→ Visit legendary museums like the Louvre, or go niche at the YSL and Dior museums.
Where to Stay
Premier Room | The Four Seasons George V Paris
Four Seasons Hotel George V: A Parisian legend just steps from the Champs-Elysees. Prepare for lavish suites, Michelin-starred dining, and jaw-dropping floral displays. Book with me to access perks like: Four Seasons Preferred Partner perks including daily breakfast, upgrades and more.
Kimpton St. Honore’ Paris: Art deco charm meets modern style in this hotel near Opera Garnier. This could be best home base if you love cozy rooms, a buzzy rooftop bar, and prime access to world-class shopping. Book with me to access perks like: $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, upgrades, welcome gift, and flexible check-in/out.
La Fantaisie: As its name suggests, this boutique hotel is pure Paris whimsy. You’ll find it in South Pigalle, filled with gardens, colorful interiors and lots of charm. Book with me to access perks like: hotel credits, upgrades, extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Brach Paris: Would you rather stay somewhere a little more unconventional? Brach Paris boasts a rooftop terrace, spa and social buzz in a residential feeling neighborhood. Book with me to access perks like: daily breakfast, welcome amenity, priority concierge service, and more.
Cernay-la-Ville
Cernay-la-Ville
Well-kept travel secrets are hard to find these days.Cernay-la-Ville still feels like an insider’s spot. Tucked into the Chevreuse Valley, it offers forest trails, peaceful lakes and the quiet charm of the countryside. It’s the perfect add-on if you’re craving a break from the city without going too far.
What to Try
Rustic country comfort food is the star here. Start with a hearty coq au vin (slow-braised chicken in red wine) or sample a slice of wild game terrine with crusty bread. For dessert, enjoy a classic French tarte tatin. Pair it all with a glass of earthy red from nearby vineyards.
What to Do
→ Boat across the abbey lake, wander scenic forest trails or take a dip in the outdoor pool.
→ Book a massage and re-set in the hotel spa’s steam room and lounges.
→Go horseback riding through the Chevreuse Valley and let the countryside set the pace.
Where to Stay
Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay: Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay is a 12th-century abbey-turned-boutique hotel delivers the ultimate fairytale experience. With forested grounds, a glassy lake, a luxe spa, and serious history in every stone, it’s the kind of place where you’ll want to wander. Book with me to access perks like: $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Champagne
The Champagne region is as effervescent as its namesake bubbly. Between vineyard strolls and cellar tours, you’ll have plenty of time to decompress and relax. And since it’s just a short hop from Paris, it’s one of the easiest ways to upgrade your trip.
What to Try
No trip to Champagne is complete without, well, champagne. Pop a bottle and pair it with fresh oysters or the region’s signature cured ham, jambon de Reims. For something sweet, grab a few biscuits roses de Reims — adorable pink cookies made for dunking into your bubbly.
What to Try
→Sip bubbly straight from the source with cellar tours and vineyard tastings.
→Explore Reims and Epernay by bike or a scenic drive along the Route du Champagne.
Where to stay
Domaine Les Crayeres: Set in a grand chateau surrounded by parkland in Reims, this historic hideaway is pure French elegance. Be sure to pack your Sunday best; the two-Michelin-star restaurant is worth it! Book with me to access perks like: Tour for two at Champagne Taittinger or Pommery, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa: This sleek hillside retreat offers panoramic vineyard views and serious spa bliss. It’s modern and filled with light. Don’t miss a dip in the infinity pool. Book with me to access perks like: $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, upgrade and extended check-in/out, whenever possible.
Lyon
For a foodie in France, Lyon is unmissable. With more restaurants per capita than NYC and a vibe that’s equal parts Renaissance charm and modern edge, it’s the perfect place to slow down, eat well, and explore. Don’t miss lunch at a bouchon or Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse food market.
What to Try
To eat through Lyon like a local, start with quenelles de brochet. These are pillowy pike dumplings in a creamy Nutella sauce. Or, try saucisson brioche, a savory sausage baked inside buttery brioche. For dessert, try the vibrant tarte a la praline you’ll see in shop windows as you wander through traboules.
What to Do
→Dine your way through bouchons and Michelin-star restaurants alike.
→Visit Les Halles de Lyon for gourmet bites and people watching.
→Ride the funicular to Fourviere Hill for sweeping views and an awe-inspiring basilica.
→Take a silk-printing class and learn about Lyon’s textile history.
Where to Stay
Intercontinental Lyon — Hotel Dieu:Hotel Dieu is a grand hotel with historic bones. Housed in a restored 18-th century hospital, this sleek hotel offers river views, vaulted ceilings, and a glamorous bar beneath a 100-foot dome. Book with me to access perks like: $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, welcome amenity, and extended check-in/out, whenever possible.
La Villa Florentine: Perched above the city in a former convent, this retreat is full of character and calm. You’ll find a Michelin-starred restaurant, infinity pool, and spa — all with panoramic views of Lyon’s rooftops. Book with me to access perks like: one-way private transfer, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out, whenever possible.
Villa Maia: This more intimate hotel on Fourviere Hill blends Japanese minimalism with French luxury. Amenities like an indoor pool and serene garden make this a truly unique stay, just a short walk from Roman ruins and city views. Book with me to access perks like: daily breakfast, upgrade priority, and extended check-in/out, with Leading Hotels perks.
Provence
If you want to savor summer, head to Provence. Here, lavender fields stretch for miles, rose’ is poured under olive trees, and golden hour strolls through hilltop villages are just part of the everyday. Whether you’re exploring seaside Marseille or wandering through markets in Aix, this region offers a sunny retreat full of nature, culture and charm.
What to Try
In Provence, a must try is the classic bouillabaisse. Soak up your saffrony seafood stew with toasted bread and rouille. Or go vegetarian with ratatouille or goat cheese with lavender honey. Top it all off with a delicious, chilled rose’!
What to Do
→Wander lavender fields in bloom or toast the day with a rose’ at a hilltop vineyard.
→Stroll daily markets for olive oil, lavender sachets, and handmade pottery.
→Cruise the Marseille coast and discover beachy hideaways you can only reach by boat.
→Craft your own fragrance in a perfume-making workshop or take a Provencal cooking class.
Where to Stay
Hotel Les Bords de Mer | Marseille: This sleek boutique hotel is perched right on the water, with minimalist rooms that open up to the sea. After a day of exploring, unwind at the rooftop pool or indulge in the ocean-facing spa. Book with me to access perks like: a complimentary tour/experience, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, upgrade, and extended check-in/out, whenever possible.
Villa Gallici | Aix-en-Provence: This baroque-style villa lined with cypress trees is perfect for you if you’re dreaming of a romantic Provencal escape. It’s just minutes from Aix’s historic heart yet feels like a world away. Book with me to access perks like: $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, upgrade, and extended check-in/out, whenever possible.
La Mirande | Avignon: For history buffs, step right into old-world France at this restored 14th-century cardinal’s mansion. Antique furnishings, rich tapestries, and a dreamy courtyard make this an atmospheric hideaway in the center of Avignon. Book with me to access perks like: $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, upgrade, and extended check-in/out, whenever possible.
History & Culture of Paris and Surrounding Regions
France’s history and culture are woven into every corner of the country, from cities to country villages. You can taste it in each area’s regional cuisine and walk through history simply by letting yourself get lost.
In Paris, world-class museums and monuments are part of daily life. In Champagne and Cernay-la-Ville, heritage is preserved through historic abbeys and vineyards. Many houses, such as Moet & Chandon & Veuve Cliquot still follow the old methods of making champagne. It’s like you’re sipping history.
In Lyon, gastronomy reigns supreme. The tradition of small, covivial bistros (bouchons) are a great place to taste the city’s culinary heritage. Explore Lyon’s silk-weaving past through the traboules — secret passageways once used by the silk merchants.
Further south, Provence’s famous lavender fields and Roman ruins are a welcome antidote to modern life. The region is steeped in traditions, from the lively petanque games played in village squares to the colorful markets overflowing with local produce and crafts.
If Not France . . .
Paris — and France — is always a good idea. Yet it’s not the only travel option if you’re craving culture, cuisine and scenery with a twist. The following alternate destinations offer a fresh take on European elegance and immersive travel.
Florence & Tuscany, Italy: In the mood for art, architecture and rolling vineyards as far as the eye can see? Florence can be just as romantic as Paris, and the surrounding Tuscan towns serve up their own version of rustic charm and wine-soaked afternoons.
Bruges & The Belgian Countryside: If you’ve already visited France, consider detouring to Bruges for your next vacation. Belgium is often overlooked when compared to its popular neighbor. The city and nearby countryside can charm you with its dreamy scenery, quaint small towns, and the best chocolate of your life.
The Cotswolds & Bath, England: For countryside calm with more storybook villages, the Cotswolds are hard to beat. Add a stop in Bath for Georgian architecture and historic spa vibes.
Kyoto & Hakone, Japan: Want a similar experience that also feels completely new? The temples, gardens, and tea ceremonies of Kyoto, paired with a trip to the hot springs and views of Mt. Fuji in Hakone will do the trick.
Buenos Aires & Mendoza, Argentina: How about traveling to the Paris of South America? Buenos Aires’ cobblestone streets, European architecture and wine culture offer a fresh take on the “Euro trip.” Tack on an excursion to nearby Mendoza to breathe in the mountain air of the Andes.
Let’s Plan Your Getaway to Paris & Beyond
We hope this insider’s guide to Paris & beyond whet your appetite for travel. From the energy of Paris to the peaceful countryside, France has something for every kind of traveler. A picnic in the Parc du Luxembourg? Champagne in a chateau? Museums and medieval history? Whatever’s on your Fance wishlist, we can make it happen.
Get in touch today and let’s start planning your next visit to Paris and beyond!
