France has a reputation for romance, style, and producing some of the best wine in the world. The country is full of culture and is very popular with tourists from all over the world visiting year-round. Depending on your nationality you may need to apply for a visa before entering the country. In this post you will find information on how to apply for a France visa and our list of six reasons you should travel to France and spend time exploring this classy country.
Schengen Visa Requirements For France
France is part of the Schengen agreement which means if you need a visa to visit France, you will need to apply for a Schengen visa. Many people become confused by the visa application process, but we have laid out exactly what you need to get that French visa approval. The first step is to fill out a Schengen visa application, this can be completed online but you will need to sign it. Included in your Schengen visa application you will need to include two passport-sized photographs that have been taken fairly recently. Another part of the visa requirements is proof of address letter. Tax bills, utility bills, and house deeds or lease agreements are sufficient. The most important documents that you will need to submit with your Schengen visa application is a flight itinerary, hotel reservation, financial proof of sufficiency , travel insurance, and a no-objection letter. The flight itinerary will indicate how long you plan on staying in France and will assure the embassy that you do not plan on staying in the country illegally. A hotel reservation will prove that you have confirmed accommodation in preparation for your trip whilst travel insurance as verification that you are covered medically. Providing a no objection letter is further assurance that you will be returning to your home country as you have commitments such as employment or studies to resume. Once you have acquired all of the above documentation you are ready to submit your French Schengen visa application. If you would like more information on Schengen visa requirements or Schengen visa documentation, head to VisaBookings and see our fool-proof visa application blog posts.
1) Art:
Art galleries are not hard to come by in France. The country has a history of creativity and has generated some of the world’s most famous pieces of art. France played a huge role in the development of art especially during the 18th century. Many famous artists were French including Claude Monet, Paul Cezanne, Paul Gauguin, August Renoir, Camille Pissarro, Eugene Delacroix, and several more. Many pieces by these famous artists can be found in selected art museums around Paris. One of the most popular art museums found in France is Musee Du Louvre, in Paris closely followed by Centre Pompidou and Musee D Orsay. Whilst many famous portraits and landscapes created by French artists are exhibited in French art museums, they also display original pieces by non-French artists including the Mona Lisa painting by Leonardo da Vinci. The high presence of classical art is what has inspired the French over the years to build and maintain a stylish country.
2) Wine:
It’s no secret that great wine can be found by the bucket load in France. In fact, French wine is so good that people from neighboring European countries often travel to France just to stock up on their favorite French wines. In the countryside of France, there is an abundance of vineyards. The climate provides perfect conditions for grapes to thrive enabling the production of high-quality, delicious wines. Champagne is, of course, a creation of the French. Produced in the Champagne region of France, grapes are picked prematurely as part of the fermenting process. You have probably come across several types of champagne in the past but true champagne will always have been produced in the Champagne region.
3) Beaches:
France typically experiences the same sort of weather as the UK, however, the south of France is usually much warmer. The beaches around this area are simply stunning. Perfect white sands are licked by the teal blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea and look much like those of the Caribbean islands. The French Riviera is a major tourist hotspot with many celebrities and royals regularly taking vacations there. As beautiful as the beaches are in the south of France, one not so obvious location for beaches in Normandy. Located in the northwestern part of France, Normandy also houses some mesmerizing beaches. For a relaxing beach vacation in France, either region will exceed expectations.
4) The French Alps:
Glistening snow-covered mountaintops, fantastic skiing, and captivating views are what makes the French Alps so magical. Every year winter sports enthusiasts flock to the French mountains and revel in the beauty of winter. The French Alps offer huge amounts of skiing/snowboarding ground, suitable for all levels. The resorts are well-equipped for beginners and advanced skiers with gradual progression for those who are just starting out. Tignes, Val d’Isere, Les Arcs, Courchevel, and Val Thorens are just some of the large ski resorts within France. When you’re not skiing in the mountains you can enjoy the diverse nightlight that the alps have to offer. Every bar and club try and bring something new to the table with live music, fancy dress, karaoke, and all-around entertainment. The French Alps are not just for winter enjoyment. Once the snow has melted other activities are quick to take places such as hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, trail walks, and much more. If you enjoy action sports and mountain activities, then the French Alps are the place to go.
5) Local Cuisine:
Freshly baked bread and sweet flaky croissants are enough to get your mouth watering. The French pride themselves on their culinary expertise and with a wide assortment of dishes, eating will quickly become your new favorite hobby. Independent bakeries make up much of the French high streets all offering a range of chocolaty desserts, spongy waffles, fluffy crepes, and crusty loaves. Test out the local delicacies by ordering a bowl of snails or a plate of frog’s legs. Admittedly, they’re not for everyone but they do have a rather surprising taste. Signature French dishes include Beef Bourguignon and Coq Au Vin, one being a rich meaty stew and the other a smooth, velvety chicken recipe. The French also have a natural talent for producing tasty, creamy cheeses that nicely complement their fine wines.
6) Fashion:
The people of France take a lot of pride in their appearance. Often creating and setting new trends, the fashion scene in France is very big. All major designer labels have stores located in France, the majority of them in Paris. The shopping experience in France is incredible, unique boutiques and designer labels provide the opportunity to completely upgrade your wardrobe. Paris is dubbed “the fashion capital of the world” and hosts a multitude of fashion launches, designer showcases, and fashion shows and events, including the infamous Paris Fashion Week. All major fashion designers have been to France, some drawing inspiration from the sophisticated lifestyles of the French and the beautiful scenery throughout the country.
France is one of the most visited country in the world, and with all it has to offer, it’s hardly surprising. From visiting the Eiffel Tower to relaxing at the beach, France has something for everyone. If you’re planning a European trip any time soon then consider France as one of your stops, it is not to be missed.
