Planning a Palais Garnier visit? Our first-hand guide covers tickets, hours, whether it's worth it, and the best time to see the Opera House.

For pure grandeur, nothing is quite like a visit to the Palais Garnier - the Opera House of Paris, located at Place de l'Opera in the 9th Arrondissement. 

Traveling by train in France is convenient, quick, safe, and relaxing. Most European countries have an extensive train network and France is no exception. 

Antibes is a beautiful seaside city in southeastern France, situated on the French Riviera between Cannes and Nice. Visiting Antibes is relaxing and the town is easy to enjoy.

We have found that the South of France is not only incredibly beautiful but also very easy to visit.  Most of the towns along the French Riviera are connected by train and driving between them is easy too. 

Lyon is the third largest city in France and is recognized as the country’s gastronomic capital.

Lyon is also known for its significant architectural landmarks and its lively cultural scene.

We think the Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Latin Quarter represent the best of Paris; the cafe terraces, narrow streets plus the general vibe of enjoying a slower pace. 

Saint-Germain-des-Prés (the 6 arrondissement) and neighboring Latin Quarter (the 5th arrondissement) have enough attractions to keep you busy for a day or make a great base for your Paris hotel.

Eze is a stunning, hilltop medieval village located 1,400 feet above the French Mediterranean. It’s very close to Nice and Monaco.

Its location, so close to other French Riviera attractions, makes it a perfect day trip.

The small fishing port of Cassis is a lively yet understated beach town in the south of France. It’s only a 40-minute drive east of Marseille and is the gateway to the striking cliffs of Calanque National Park.

Visiting the French city of Nice allows you to enjoy the wonderful seaside city and explore the many nearby iconic French Riviera cities. 

Saint Paul de Vence is a medieval, walled hilltop village in the South of France. It’s only a short distance from Nice and showcases art galleries and great restaurants. It’s a worthy day trip or overnight stay.

Marseille visitors can enjoy a beautiful and bustling port, a charming old town section, great restaurants, high-speed trains to Lyon and Paris, and train service to the seaside towns of the French Riviera. All these features make Marseille worth a visit. 

The Grand Mosque of Paris is a beautiful hidden gem with a fascinating history.

During World War 2 the Mosque’s members hid Paris Jews from the Nazis. Today it’s a vibrant place of Worship and a quiet oasis in the middle of Paris.

During the day the narrow streets of the French Riviera cliffside town of Eze are crowded with visitors. At night the Eze visitors have all left and the streets are mostly deserted.

I used a Canon R5 and some very long exposures to capture the empty streets.

Hôtel Château de La Chèvre d’Or, located on the cliffs of Eze overlooking the French Riviera, provides a truly memorable experience. From the staff to the rooms to the dining everything is remarkable. 

Located in the luxurious 8th Arrondissement, just a short walk from the Champs Elysées and L’Arc de Triomphe, the Petit Palais is a beautiful art museum that is a visit. And it’s free!

Only in Paris could a place so grand and ornate be called “petite”, but compared to some other museums in the city, I guess it is!

Renting a car in France allows you to visit many of the world-class destinations. We discuss tips that will make driving in France a pleasure. I would not hesitate at all to rent a car and go exploring. 

Arles, France was a source of inspiration for Vincent Van Gogh. He created over 300 works while living in Arles for only one year. This guide helps you visit many of the sites.

Arles, France is a small city in Provence packed with plenty to see. Among the highlights are The Roman ruins, museums, and Van Gogh painting sites.

Visiting Montmartre you’ll find a unique village with its own personality within Paris. The Basilica of Sacré Coeur and the wonderful views are the highlights of a visit to the neighborhood.