France
is full of surprising stories, regional traditions and cultural
details that many travellers overlook. These insights reveal a deeper
and more intriguing side to the country before you experience it for
yourself.
France is the most visited country in the world.
There are over 1,000 different types of cheese — and many claim even more.
The French consume around 30,000 tonnes of snails per year.
Paris was one of the first cities to use public streetlights, inspiring the nickname “City of Light.”
The Tour de France is one of the longest and most demanding sporting events on Earth.
The hot air balloon, cinema and photography were all pioneered in France.
Braille was invented by Louis Braille, a French teenager.
The metric system was created during the French Revolution.
The Eiffel Tower was once the world’s tallest structure.
Saying “Bonjour” before any conversation is essential social etiquette.
Tipping is optional as service is included, but small extra amounts are appreciated.
It’s common to greet acquaintances with cheek kisses (“la bise”), though the number varies by region.
Shops and small businesses often close for long lunch breaks.
Coco Chanel revolutionised modern fashion.
Claude Monet shaped Impressionist art.
Marie Curie remains one of the most celebrated scientists in history.
Zinedine Zidane is one of France’s most iconic athletes.
France spans five major climate zones, from Mediterranean beaches to Alpine glaciers.
The Loire Valley contains hundreds of grand châteaux.
Mont Blanc is Western Europe’s highest peak.
Provence is famous for lavender fields, hilltop villages and sun-drenched landscapes.
Meals are considered social rituals and often last longer than in many countries.
Bread, wine and cheese are integral to daily life.
Sunday remains a quiet day, with many shops closed.
Fashion, literature and design are deeply valued national arts.
France has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than most countries in Europe.
“Terroir” — the idea that land shapes flavour — influences everything from wine to cheese.
French cinema is internationally respected, with its own global festivals.
Markets are central to community life, particularly in small towns.
France’s recorded history stretches back over 2,000 years.
The French Revolution fundamentally shaped modern democracy.
Medieval cathedrals such as Notre-Dame and Chartres are architectural masterpieces.
Normandy was the site of the pivotal D-Day landings in World War II.
The Eiffel Tower receives over 7 million visitors annually.
Mont Saint-Michel appears to float at high tide.
The Calanques near Marseille offer dramatic turquoise coves and limestone cliffs.
Carcassonne is one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval fortresses.
France is the world’s most visited country.
Home to more than 1,000 cheeses.
“Bonjour” is essential etiquette.
Eiffel Tower was once the tallest structure.
French Revolution created the metric system.
Mont Blanc is Western Europe’s highest peak.
Provence is known for lavender fields.
Cinema and photography were invented here.
France has dozens of UNESCO sites.
Paris is the original “City of Light.”
Long meals are cultural norms.
Wine and bread are everyday staples.