France welcomes over 89 million visitors each year, and it’s easy to see why. From the iconic Eiffel Tower sparkling over Paris to purple lavender fields blanketing Provence, France offers endless delights for travelers.
And there’s no need to wait for a travel buddy. France is perfect for solo adventures too! Let’s dive into why solo travel in France is such a great idea and how you can make the most of your trip
Why France is Perfect for Solo Travellers
- Excellent public transportFrance has an extensive network of trains, metros, and buses that make it a breeze to get around, even if you don’t speak French. High-speed TGV trains zip you between cities, while local trains and buses reach smaller towns.
- Safe for solo travelersFrance is generally a safe country for tourists, including those traveling alone. Violent crime rates are low. Of course, it’s always wise to take normal precautions like being aware of your surroundings and keeping an eye on your belongings.
Where to Stay in France
From quaint hostels to chic hotels, here are some great solo travel accommodation options in France:
St Christopher’s Inn Paris
- Address: 159 Rue de Crimée, 75019 Paris, France
- Contact: +33 1 40 34 34 40
- Description: This canal-side hostel has both dorms and private rooms in a fun, social atmosphere. Dorm beds start at just €23 per night.
Le Village Montmartre Hostel
- Address: 20 Rue d’Orsel, 75018 Paris, France
- Contact: +33 1 42 64 22 02
- Description: Stay in the heart of charming Montmartre, steps from Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Dorms start at €25 per night and private rooms at €60.
HĂ´tel Henriette
- Address: 9 Rue des Gobelins, 75013 Paris, France
- Contact: +33 1 47 07 26 90
- Description: This stylish boutique hotel has compact but lovely rooms starting at €100 per night. Great Left Bank location near the Latin Quarter.
Mama Shelter Lyon
- Address: 13 Rue Domer, 69007 Lyon, France
- Contact: +33 4 78 02 58 00
- Description: Ultra-hip hotel with small but well-designed rooms from €69. Fantastic location near the Rhône River and Vieux Lyon.
Must-Visit Spots for Solo Travellers
France offers a wealth of amazing experiences for solo travelers. Here are some highlights:
Iconic Landmarks
Eiffel Tower
No trip to France is complete without seeing this wrought-iron icon up close. Consider splurging on lunch or dinner at the tower’s Le Jules Verne restaurant.
- Timings: 9:30 am-11:45 pm (lift). 9:30 am-6:30 pm (stairs).
- Address: Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France
- Nearest Town: Paris
- Best Time to Visit: Arrive early (before 10 am) or after 7pm for fewer crowds.
- How to Reach: Metro Line 6 or 9 to Bir-Hakeim or Trocadéro station. RER C to Champ de Mars-Tour Eiffel station.
Palace of Versailles
This opulent royal château is a testament to the extravagance of the French monarchy. Don’t miss the spectacular Hall of Mirrors.
- Timings: 9 am-5:30 pm (closed Mondays)
- Address: Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles, France
- Nearest Town: Versailles (outskirts of Paris)
- Best Time to Visit: Avoid summer weekends. Tuesday-Friday afternoons are quietest.
- How to Reach: RER C to Versailles-Château-Rive-Gauche station. SNCF trains from Paris Montparnasse station to Versailles-Chantiers station.
Cultural Experiences
Louvre Museum
The world’s largest art museum is a must for culture vultures. Pre-book tickets online to skip the long queues.
- Timings: 9 am-6 pm (Wed, Fri until 9:45 pm). Closed Tuesdays.
- Address: Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France
- Nearest Town: Paris
- Best Time to Visit: Wednesday and Friday evenings tend to be less crowded.
- How to Reach: Metro Line 1 or 7 to Palais Royal-Musée du Louvre station.
Cannes Film Festival
Rub shoulders with A-listers at the world’s most famous film festival, held each May. Some screenings are open to the public.
- Timings: Varies per event
- Address: Palais des Festivals, 1 Boulevard de la Croisette, 06400 Cannes, France
- Nearest Town: Cannes
- Best Time to Visit: Attend in the second week for the biggest premieres. Book accommodation far in advance.
- How to Reach: TGV trains from Paris Gare de Lyon to Cannes station (5h). Fly into Nice-Côte-d’Azur Airport.
Relaxation Zones
Jardin du Luxembourg
These elegant gardens are the perfect spot for people-watching, picnicking, and recharging between sightseeing.
- Timings: 7:30 am-9:30 pm (summer). 8:15 am-4:30 pm (winter).
- Address: Rue de Médicis – Rue de Vaugirard, 75006 Paris, France
- Nearest Town: Paris
- Best Time to Visit: Afternoons are ideal for leisurely strolls. Mornings are quietest.
- How to Reach: Metro Line 4 to Odéon station. RER B to Luxembourg station.
Place des Vosges
- Description: Paris’ oldest planned square is a lovely spot for reading and relaxing under the vaulted arcades.
- Timings: 7 am-8 pm daily
- Address: Place des Vosges, 75004 Paris, France
- Nearest Town: Paris
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday afternoons are most peaceful. Weekends are busy.
- How to Reach: Metro Line 1 to Saint-Paul station or Line 8 to Chemin Vert station.
Dining Solo in France
One of the great joys of travel is sampling the local cuisine. And when you’re traveling solo, dining out can be a fun way to meet new people and immerse yourself in the culture. Here are some top spots for solo dining in France:
Casual Eats
This popular creperie chain serves up delicious savory galettes and sweet crepes. Perfect for a quick, tasty meal.
Timings: Weekdays: 11:30 AM – 10:30 PM, Weekends: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Recommended dishes:
- Classic Galette Saucisse (savory crepe with sausage)
- Salted Caramel Crepe
- Ham and Cheese Crepe
- Spinach and Feta Crepe
- Apple Crepe
- Nutella Crepe
- Artisanal Ciders
Feast on flavourful Cambodian dishes at this lively spot. Communal tables make it easy to chat with fellow diners.
Timings: Weekdays: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM, Weekends: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Recommended dishes:
-
- Bobun (Vietnamese noodle soup)
- Spring Rolls
- Pho
- Banh Mi
- Fried Rice
- Vegetable Stir-Fry
- Coconut Ice Cream
Fancy Options
Treat yourself to an elegant meal at this iconic Art Deco brasserie. The seafood platters are legendary.
Timings: Weekdays: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM, Weekends: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Recommended dishes:
- Seafood Platter
- Coq au Vin
- Duck Confit
- Escargots
- Steak Tartare
- Sole Meunière
- Crème Brûlée
Indulge in Michelin-starred cuisine at chef Alain Passard’s vegetable-centric restaurant. The seasonal tasting menu is a must.
Timings: Weekdays: 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM, Weekends: Closed
Recommended dishes:
- Seasonal Vegetable Tasting Menu
- Foie Gras
- Lobster
- Lamb
- Dessert Menu
- Cheese Plate
- Wine Pairings
Budget Eats
This trendy spot offers international flavors at wallet-friendly prices. The burgers and share plates are popular.
Timings: Weekdays: 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM, Weekends: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Recommended dishes:
- Burgers
- Share Plates
- Salads
- Sandwiches
- Fries
- Desserts like Cheesecake
- International Flavors
Grab a casual bite at this hip neo-bistro near the Gare de l’Est. The menu changes daily based on market-fresh ingredients.
Timings: Weekdays: 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM, Weekends: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Recommended dishes:
- Burgers
- Salads
- Sandwiches
- Fries
- Desserts like Tarte Tatin
- Wine and Beer
Cafes for Work and Relaxation
This iconic tea room is famous for its rich hot chocolate and Mont Blanc pastry. A perfect spot to relax or get some work done.
Timings: Weekdays: 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM, Weekends: 7:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Recommended dishes:
- Rich Hot Chocolate
- Mont-Blanc Pastry
- Chicken Salad
- Croque Monsieur
- Sandwiches
- Pastries
- Coffee
This legendary Left Bank cafe has been a favorite haunt of writers and artists for decades. Sip a coffee and soak up the atmosphere.
Timings: Weekdays: 7:30 AM – 1:30 AM, Weekends: 7:30 AM – 1:30 AM
Recommended dishes:
- Coffee
- Pastries
- Sandwiches
- Salads
- Croissants
- Baguette with Cheese
- Wine
Final Tips for Solo Dining in France
- Make reservations in advance, especially for popular restaurants, to ensure a table.
- Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations from the staff; they can guide you to the best dishes.
- Opt for bar seating or communal tables to meet other solo diners.
- Learn basic French phrases to enhance your dining experience and interact with staff.
Activities Perfect for Solo Travelers
France offers a wealth of experiences for solo travelers, from adrenaline-pumping adventures to cultural immersions and luxurious indulgences.
Adventure and Thrill
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
- Address: 1 Rue Botzaris, 75019 Paris, France
- Contact: +33 1 40 03 75 75
- Email: [email protected]
- Best time: Spring and Summer for optimal weather
- Price Range: Free admission
- Recommendations: Paris City Vision
Tree Top Adventure in Fontainebleau Forest
- Address: 77190 Dammarie-les-Lys, France
- Contact: +33 1 64 22 24 24
- Email:[email protected]
- Best time: Weekends and holidays
- Price Range: €20-€40 per person
- Recommendations:Fontainebleau Tourism
White Water Rafting in the Dordogne
- Address: 24600 Saint-Cyprien, France
- Contact: +33 5 53 50 70 00
- Email: [email protected]
- Best time: Summer months
- Price Range: €50-€100 per person
- Recommendations: Dordogne Tourism
Indoor Adventures
The Louvre Museum
- Address: Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France
- Contact: +33 1 40 20 53 17
- Email: [email protected]
- Besttime: Weekdays during off-peak hours
- PriceRange: €18 per person
- Recommendations: The Louvre
Musée d’Orsay
- Address: 1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 75007 Paris, France
- Contact: +33 1 40 49 48 14
- Email: [email protected]
- Besttime: Weekdays during off-peak hours
- PriceRange: €12 per person
- Recommendations: Musée d’Orsay
Palais Garnier
- Address: 8 Rue de l’Opéra, 75009 Paris, France
- Contact: +33 1 71 25 24 23
- Email: [email protected]
- Best time: Afternoon tours
- Price Range: €17 per person
- Recommendations: Opéra National de Paris
Social Experiences
Join a Group Tour
- Address: Varies depending on the tour company
- Contact: Varies depending on the tour company
- Email: Varies depending on the tour company
- Best time: Anytime, depending on the tour schedule
- Price Range: €50-€200 per person
- Recommendations: EF Ultimate Break
Attend a Wine Tasting
- Address: 52 Rue de l’Abreuvoir, 75018 Paris, France (for example, at Le Baron Rouge)
- Contact: +33 1 46 06 40 09
- Email:[email protected]
- Best time: Evenings
- Price Range: €30-€100 per person
- Recommendations:Le Baron Rouge
Visit a Local Market
- Address: Rue Cler, 75007 Paris, France (for example)
- Contact: +33 1 40 03 75 75
- Email: [email protected]
- Best time: Weekdays and weekends during market hours
- Price Range: Free admission
- Recommendations: Paris City Vision
Luxury Escapes
Day Trip to the Château de Versailles
- Address: Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles, France
- Contact: +33 1 30 83 78 00
- Email:[email protected]
- Best time: Weekdays during off-peak hours
- Price Range: €20-€50 per person
- Recommendations: Château de Versailles
Spa Day at the Ritz Paris
- Address: 15 Place VendĂ´me, 75001 Paris, France
- Contact: +33 1 43 16 30 30
- Email: [email protected]
- Besttime: Anytime, depending on spa schedule
- PriceRange: €100-€500 per person
- Recommendations: The Ritz Paris
Private Boat Tour on the Seine
- Address: Quai de Montebello, 75005 Paris, France (for example)
- Contact: +33 1 46 33 98 38
- Email: [email protected]
- Besttime: Evenings
- PriceRange: €50-€200 per person
- Recommendations: Bateaux-Mouches
Solo Travel Safety: Emergency Numbers
When traveling solo in France, it’s crucial to be prepared for any situation. Here are the essential emergency numbers to keep handy:
- SAMU: 15
- Police: 17
- Fire Brigade: 18
- European Emergency Number: 112
- Emergency Number for Deaf and Hard of Hearing: 114
Why Choose OneVasco?
OneVasco makes visa applications effortless. Our expert team manages the entire process, allowing you to focus on your journey.Â
Enjoy stress-free travel with fast visa approvals.
- Expert and Personalized SupportÂ
- Efficient and Hassle-Free ProcessÂ
- Real-Time Tracking and UpdatesÂ
- Transparent CommunicationÂ
- Trusted by Millions
FAQs
Why is France famous?
France is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, world-class cuisine, and iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum. The country is also famous for its fashion, art, and wine.
Is France a good place to travel alone?
Absolutely! France is an excellent destination for solo travel. With a well-developed public transportation system, a high level of safety, and a welcoming atmosphere, France offers solo travelers the freedom to explore at their own pace and immerse themselves in the local culture.
Can a single girl travel to France?
Yes, France is generally safe for solo female travelers. While it’s important to exercise common sense and be aware of your surroundings, as with any travel destination, France is known for its hospitality and respect towards women.
Is France cheap or expensive?
France, particularly major cities like Paris, can be on the pricier side compared to some other European destinations. Consider staying in hostels, eating at local cafes or markets, and using public transportation to save money.
How can I enjoy nightlife in France?
France offers a vibrant nightlife scene, especially in cities like Paris, Lyon, and Nice. As a solo traveler, you can enjoy visiting bars, clubs, and live music venues. Joining organized pub crawls or nightlife tours is a great way to meet other travelers and explore the local nightlife safely.
