Going Around France: Transportation Tips

With its famous Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and its picturesque countryside, France is one of the favorite holiday destinations for many people worldwide. In fact, in 2016, the travel and tourism industry in France brought in around 198 billion euros to the country’s GDP. 

Touring France is a part of many people’s bucket lists. That is why it is a good thing that it has an array of transportation you can use to go around, be it in the city, in the suburbs, or outside the city. Also, it has an efficient transport system that makes going around France easier.

If you are an international student who wants to go around France and enjoy its sceneries and historic landmarks, try various activities such as skiing in the French Alps, or just go around your host city, knowing which transportation to use is a must. Read below to know France’s transportation modes and tips when going around the country. 

Walk or Bike Around the City

Walking or biking in France is a good way to go around or explore your host city. Not only is it an economic way to go around a city, but it is also a good way to get some exercise while in another country. 

When it comes to cycling, did you know that it is a famous way to go around cities in France? 

In Paris, for example, the number of cyclists increased 54 percent from 2018 to 2019. Also, the country is home to various bike-sharing programs such as Velib, Mobike, and the Donkey Republic, so you won’t have to worry about using one if you need it. 

Traveling by Bus

Buses in France can be used to travel around a city, or to travel to different destinations in France, and even Europe. It’s also more affordable than riding a train, for example.

Moreover, buses in France, especially for long journeys are usually equipped with Wi-Fi, reclining seats, and even electric sockets. Some famous bus companies in France include Ouibus, Isilines, and Flixbus. 

Renting a Car

If you are eligible to drive in France and you have a driver’s license, a good way to travel around the country is by renting a car. Traveling by car means having the freedom to go anywhere without the limits of schedules and routes in most public transportation. Thus, if you really want to explore France at your own pace, renting a car and driving yourself around town is a good way to do that.

Just remember that the French drive on the right side of the road, and the steering wheel is on the left side of the car.

Traveling by Train

If you want to avoid the roads, and want to have a more relaxed traveling experience, then maybe a train ride is good for you. Just like buses, trains are a good way to travel in different parts of France, and even outside of it. France’s famous rail network, the SNCF, serves different cities in France and its neighboring countries in Europe. 

Just remember to book a ticket before your scheduled date of departure so you won’t have to pay additional fees. 

Flying Around France

The fastest way to travel around France is by plane. 

Most large cities in France have their own international airports, such as Paris, Lyon, Nice, Bordeaux, and so on. Moreover, the country has a lot of domestic flights tourists and students can use going around France. 

Planning to study and France but you also want to learn more about it? Check out MSM Unify’s article on Studying in France: What You Need to Know.