Exclusive Travel Guide

Everything You Need to Plan Solo Trips to France!

France was one of the first countries I ever traveled to, and over the years, I’ve returned again and again—Paris three times, plus Bordeaux, Toulouse, Nice, and Mont Saint-Michel.

Each trip has only deepened my love for it. As a solo traveler, France can be both exhilarating and a little intimidating, but once you get into the rhythm—morning espresso at a café, aimless wanders through historic streets, long dinners with a glass of wine—you start to understand why it’s so special. It’s a country that doesn’t just impress you; it lingers, pulling you back for more.

Let this guide be everything you need for making the most of France, solo.

Table of Contents

What you’ll find here

Everything You Need to Navigate This Page:

Destination guides Things to Do Best Time to Visit Travel Tips
Google Maps Common Questions Best Travel Apps

Hi, I’m Melissa

Your go-to girl for all things Solo travel

I’ve been solo traveling through Europe since 2009, with France being one of first countries I ever visited alone. Now in my 40s, I’ve explored iconic cities and hidden gems, learning how to navigate, stay safe, and embrace the freedom of solo travel. I even host small group trips! 

If you’re curious about traveling Europe solo, check out my guide.

Melissa in a black beret and coat stands in front of the Eiffel Tower holding Teddy, a fluffy Pomeranian dog wearing a white beret, surrounded by bare trees and fallen leaves in a park setting.
Bonjour!

What You Need to Do in France

Foods to Try

Croissant, coq au vin,

Drinks to Try

Bordeaux wine, kir royale

Best Spots to Relax

Provence, Île de Ré

Most Scenic Hikes

Calanques

Hidden Gems to Visit

Eguisheim, Annecy

Best Way to Get Around

Trains, metro

Must-Have Experiences

Visit Mont Saint-Michel

Best Day Trips

Versailles, Colmar

When to Visit France

  • Spring: Mild and pleasant, with temperatures between 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F) in the south and 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F) in the north.
  • Summer: Warm to hot, with temperatures soaring from 22°C to 35°C (72°F to 95°F) in the south and 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F) in the north, with coastal breezes.
  • Autumn: Mild to warm, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) in the south and 13°C to 20°C (55°F to 68°F) in the north, perfect for enjoying nature’s changing colors.
  • Winter: Rainy with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F) in the south and 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F) in the north.

Travel Tips For France

Scams

Scams are common in tourist hotspots like Paris and Nice. Beware of pairs trying to get you to sign a clipboard petition or offering a “free” bracelet or flower—they will demand money. Watch for pickpockets in busy areas like the Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Cœur, and metro stations.

Safety

I never felt unsafe in France, but I stayed aware of my belongings. Pickpocketing is common in Paris, especially in the metro and crowded attractions. Be cautious in nightlife areas and avoid engaging with street vendors who pressure you into buying.

Cash & Card

Credit cards are widely accepted, but some cafés, bakeries, and markets prefer cash. Always carry small euros for tips and public restrooms. ATMs are easy to find, but avoid independent ones with high fees.

Grab the Google Map

The Fontaine des Mers at Place de la Concorde in Paris, adorned with ornate sculptures and flowing water. The Eiffel Tower is visible in the background, framed by a cloudy sky.

Paris

Bordeaux

Marseille to Cannes

Melissa holding Teddy near the Eiffel Tower in Paris, surrounded by trees and fallen leaves on a cloudy day.

Paris With A Dog

Idyllic Photos of Toulouse

Toulouse

Exclusive Travel Guides for France

Here, you’ll find my best France guides, tips, and itineraries to help you plan your trip with ease and confidence.

Exclusive Guides

Marseille

Exclusive Guides

Paris

Questions Everyone Always Asks…

Yes, tap water in France is generally safe to drink. In fact, it often undergoes rigorous testing to ensure its quality meets health standards. However, in some areas, particularly rural regions, it’s advisable to check with locals or authorities for any specific concerns.

Yes, tipping in France is customary, especially in restaurants and cafes. A service charge is often included, but an additional 5-10% tip is appreciated for good service.

The safest city in France can vary depending on various factors such as crime rates, infrastructure, and local governance. However, some cities often cited for their safety include Bordeaux, Toulouse, and Rennes.

Yes, France has a growing number of vegan-friendly restaurants and cafes, especially in larger cities like Paris. Many traditional French dishes can also be adapted to be vegan upon request.

It depends on your nationality. Travelers from the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Australia, and most EU countries can visit France visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period as part of the Schengen Zone. However, if you’re planning to stay longer, work, or study, you may need to apply for a visa. Make sure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your departure date from the Schengen area. Always check the latest visa requirements with the official French consulate website before your trip.

Absolutely! France is an incredible destination for solo travelers, offering a mix of vibrant cities, charming small towns, and stunning coastal escapes. Public transportation is efficient, major cities are walkable, and there’s always something to do—whether it’s museum-hopping in Paris, wine tasting in Bordeaux, or exploring the beaches of Nice. While Parisians have a reputation for being reserved, solo travelers will find that many locals are helpful, especially outside the big cities.

Best Travel Apps for FRANCE

  • Google Maps – For navigation and finding your way around cities and rural areas. Don’t forget to download offline maps.
  • SNCF Connect – The official app for France’s regional train services, as well as other nearby countries.
  • Duolingo – A language learning app with games and quizzes to pick up basic French phrases.
  • XE Currency – For easy currency conversion, helping you keep track of your expenses.
  • The Fork – To discover the best local restaurants and make reservations.
A lively group of travelers poses joyfully in front of ancient Greek ruins under a vibrant blue sky. Their energy and smiles reflect the excitement of exploring historical landmarks together.

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