Backpacking in France

France is country with a strong national identity, fantastic cuisine and, with regard to climate and activity options, has something to suit every backpacker’s needs. It is one of Europe’s most populous and richest countries and understandably proud of its history and heritage.

Geographically it covers a wide area which includes the temperate Mediterranean coast of the Côte d'Azur, world-class alpine ski resorts, and the windswept coast of Brittany. As a backpacking designation it also has a great deal to offer. You may be understandably keen to ‘tick off’ Paris, but France has plenty more to offer than just its capital — which explains its popularity as a destination for holiday makers from across Europe.

There are some stunning places to see, some great things to do and some ‘one-off’ things to eat too (Yes – snails and frog’s legs!), and a backpacking tour of Europe wouldn’t be complete without heading here: Viva le France!

Where it and what’s there?

France is geographically at the heart of Western Europe. It shares borders with Belgium, Luxembourg and Germany to the north, Switzerland and Italy to the east, and Spain to the south.

Its entire western coast faces the Atlantic and much of it is made up of the Côte d’Argent — the longest uninterrupted stretch of sand in Europe — and a magnet for young Europeans throughout the summer.

The southern eastern coast, the Côte d'Azur, sits on the warm Mediterranean Sea, and the Alpine Mountain range takes up much of the south west of the country. Another range of mountains, the Pyrenees, run along much of France’s border with Spain.

The Climate

French weather varies considerably depending on which part of the country you are in. The Côte d'Azur due to both its latitude and its proximity to the ‘Med’ has a long, warm and dependable summer, whereas the north western Atlantic coastal region is much more exposed and consequently wet for much of the year, with far more erratic weather patterns.

The mountainous regions have ski seasons which run from late November through to April or May, and the interior of the country generally has settled and lengthy summers. Indeed, if you aren’t hoping to ski, then spring/summer (May – September) is a great time to be in the country.

Getting there

Considering that France is a big country by European standards, you are rarely more than a couple of hours away from an airport with international links. Main hubs include Paris in the north, Lyon to the south, and Bordeaux to the west. But there are well connected airports throughout the country.

France also has highly efficient rail and coach links with neighbouring countries, including TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse, French for ‘high speed train’) links with Switzerland, Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands.

If you’re arriving from the UK, then (aside from flying) you can get to France via ferry, or via the ‘Channel Tunnel’, which runs under the English Channel.

Getting around

France is a big country and perhaps the best way to see it is meandering though on the country’s nationally owned and extensive railway network (run by SNCF). Particularly if you have an ‘InterRail’ pass, this is a great way to see both the larger cities, and take in some more rural areas along the way. Similarly, the country has a great road network, some of which is paege (toll roads). There are some bus routes, but these are not as extensive as the rail network and, and – well – the trains are great!

If you’re in more of a hurry, then flights between the main airports are frequent and relatively cheap. Or you can take the TGV which connects several larger cities, doesn’t stop very often, and travels at speeds of up to 199mph (the TVR’s also hold the record for the fastest recorded speed for a train of 357.2mph!).

Paris has a comprehensive underground train system – the Metro - as well as good bus and train systems which provide effective links throughout the city.

Things to do while backpacking in France

France is not as concentrated as other popular European backpacking destinations and as such it pays to plan what you want to see and do. The capital, although it does live up to expectations, isn’t worth spending two weeks in... If you’ve timed your trip for summertime, then do head south and visit some vineyards, beaches or the Côte d'Azur, or if it’s winter then France’s ski resorts have legendary skiing and equally legendary ‘Après ski’!

Loire Valley – Also known as the ‘garden of France’, the Loire Valley has some staggering ‘fairytale’ castles and a fascinating history that merits investigation. Plus it’s home to some of the oldest and most respected vineyards in the world — so you can relax after all that culture!

Mont Saint Michel – Located on an island just off the coast of Normandy, Mont Saint Michel is a UNESCO world heritage site, and the medieval town has plenty of winding streets and ‘other worldy’ buildings to check out.

Paris - One of the most famous capitals in the world, Paris has got plenty to keep backpackers entertained. If you’re there then you have to check out the Champs Elysées the Arc de Triomphe and, of course, the Eiffel Tower. It is an expensive city, but backpackers on a budget are well catered for in terms of accommodation.

Eat! – The French take their food very seriously and, aside from the quality of the food, you can expect to spend an hour or two (or three!) over lunch if you’re eating with the locals. Meals are a time to savour both what you’re eating, and the company of friends and family. Although it’s France’s reputation for ‘out of the ordinary’ food that preceded it, it’s the more ordinary food that the French do very well: pastries, bread, meat and cheese as good as you’ll find anywhere.

Beaches – Whether you fancy the Atlantic-facing south western coast, with its miles upon miles of beaches and pine forests, or the classy and chic Côte d'Azur, the French have stunning beaches in abundance, and they know how to enjoy themselves on them too.

France is one of Europe’s most unique and most influential countries, and has plenty to offer backpackers. Do be aware of the fact that it is quite a large country, however, and may take longer to get around than you expect, and do make sure that you get away from the more touristy areas. Let your backpacking adventures take you to the heart of the ‘real’ France, and you won’t be disappointed...

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