France

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Ida Hagen
Ida Hagen
"Was a bit afraid of the 'posh' expat set at the French Riveria, but I got such a warm welcome in the Côte d'Azur Community! :) "
Javier Vazquez
Javier Vazquez
"Some tips on language classes and translation services for Côte d'Azur expats from the folks on InterNations proved a godsend. "

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Culture, Shopping & Recreation in France

France has a rich culture, filled with pride that you see in their customs and traditions. These traditions are found in all regions of the country, and each area has unique gastronomic specialties. Historic towns, food, and legacies of famous French painters have led to the country we know today.

When you move to France, you’ll find yourself surrounded by countless ways to discover this beautiful country. Whether it’s skiing in les Alpes Françaises or attending events like Festival de Cannes, there’s something to do for everyone. Soon you’ll be copying the eating habits of the French, like having a petit-déjeuner that will probably consist of a cup of coffee and a croissant. It’s also worth trying out the specialties of the different regions. Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes for example, is famous for the dish fondue savoyarde, where they dip bread in a saucepan of melted cheese.

Articles about Culture, Shopping & Recreation

  • The Country of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity

    The Country of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity

    The French are known to be proud of their country — a pride woven into their customs and traditions. From celebrating the end of the French Revolution to marching through the streets with their national motto: this expat guide gives you all the information on the rich culture of France.
  • From Rhône-Alpes to Bordeaux: Culinary Traditions

    From Rhône-Alpes to Bordeaux: Culinary Traditions

    From starting your day with a coffee and croissant, to ending your evening with a glass of regional wine and cheese fondue, the French are a proud nation where eating together is very important. InterNations provides you with information on French mealtime customs, regional dishes, and wine-growing regions.
  • Discover France: From Historic Towns to City Trips

    Discover France: From Historic Towns to City Trips

    Whether you’re spending time in France for work or for leisure, you’ll be able to enjoy all the different activities the country has to offer. From a relaxed beach holiday on the French Riviera to seeing the highest mountain in the Alps, this guide covers it all.
  • A Journey through the Art Scene of France

    A Journey through the Art Scene of France

    If you’re looking to learn more about how France became the country that we all know today, museums and art galleries are the best way to experience the its rich history. InterNations provides you with all the ins and outs of the French art scene!

The French Art Scene

You will probably have heard of famous French artists like Claude Monet and Édouard Manet, who have influenced the culture and art scene of France immensely. There are various museums — especially in Paris — that have exhibitions solely dedicated to these artists. Musée d’Orsay in Paris for example, shows the richest periods in the history of (French) art. This museum and the famous Louvre are popular tourist destinations. Besides the Mona Lisa, this central landmark displays masterpieces such as The Last Supper and Liberty Leading the People. If art exhibitions aren’t really your thing, there’s still plenty to see and do in France. Picturesque alpine towns near the French Alps are great for all kinds of sports — from skiing in the winter to water sports in the summer.

Culinary Traditions

Eating together is highly valued in France, and the French cuisine is on UNESCO’s list of ‘intangible cultural heritage’. This is because all meals throughout the day emphasize togetherness, the pleasure of taste, and the products of nature. Breakfast is often on-the-go, and boulangeries and patisseries are easily found. Le déjeuner usually begins at noon, and restaurants normally open around this time, and close at 14.30. The French consider dinner to be their most important meal of the day, and it generally starts at 19:30. Dinner is often accompanied by a glass of wine, which is not surprising as France was the second biggest wine-producing country in 2016.
Ida Hagen
Ida Hagen
"Was a bit afraid of the 'posh' expat set at the French Riveria, but I got such a warm welcome in the Côte d'Azur Community! :) "
Javier Vazquez
Javier Vazquez
"Some tips on language classes and translation services for Côte d'Azur expats from the folks on InterNations proved a godsend. "

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France Guide Topics

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Introduction & Key Facts
Transport & Driving
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Economy & Finance
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Culture, Shopping & Recreation