As the days grow longer, all we think of are the experiences that are waiting for us on our next destination. We’re eager to create new memories, visit new places, meet new people, and enjoy the season as it should be lived. Whether you dream of lounging on sun-kissed beaches, hiking, or immersing yourself in vibrant cultural experiences, now is the perfect time to start planning your summer getaway.
Here are four great Francophone destinations that will help you put your French into practice, while having fun.
If this is your first time in La Ville Lumière, you should definitely go see all the famous sites it has to offer. Put on your most comfortable shoes, and go walk the city around the Seine River, take your time soaking up the magnificence that is the Eiffel Tower, and go take pictures in front of the Arc de Triomphe. The clichés are a cliché for a reason, and everyone loves them.
In case you want to do something new, how about enjoying a day outside of Paris? Here are some options:
- Immerse yourself in the architectural beauty of Château de Fontainebleau: explore the grand halls, opulent apartments, and beautifully landscaped gardens of this UNESCO World Heritage. Fontainebleau is located approximately 55 kilometers (about 34.18 mi) southeast of Paris and can be reached by train in about one hour.
- Have a beach day at Deauville: this charming seaside town located on the Normandy coast of France, is known for its sandy beaches, picturesque boardwalk, and elegant architecture. To reach Deauville from Paris, you can take a direct train from Gare Saint-Lazare, and the journey takes approximately two and a half hours. It's recommended to check the train schedules in advance and plan your day accordingly.
- Go hiking at the Vallée de Chevreuse: located just southwest of the city, it offers a range of scenic trails amidst rolling hills, charming villages, and lush forests. You can embark on a leisurely hike passing by beautiful landscapes, historical sites such as the Château de Breteuil, and the enchanting Rambouillet Forest.
The most famous summer activity in Avignon is the renowned Festival d’Avignon. This annual festival is a celebration of performing arts, including theater, dance, music, and visual arts. Take advantage of the warm evenings by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of street performances, outdoor concerts, and theatrical productions. Explore the historic sites of Avignon, such as the Palais des Papes and the famous Pont d'Avignon, during the day, and in the evenings, embrace the artistic brilliance and cultural richness of the city.
How about a quick trip to Quebec City to indulge in the city's culinary delights? The best way is to explore the Quartier Petit Champlain. Start your gastronomic journey with a visit to local bakeries and pastry shops, where you can savor traditional treats like croissants, maple tarts, and mouthwatering pastries. Take a stroll along the cobblestone streets and stop at cozy bistros offering delectable French-Canadian cuisine, such as tourtière, poutine, and maple-infused dishes. Don't miss the chance to sample local cheeses and sip on artisanal ice cider, a specialty of the region.
If you want to know more about the relationship Between France and the U.S., there's nothing better than visiting New Orleans. Begin your journey by strolling down the vibrant streets, admiring the buildings with their wrought-iron balconies and colorful facades reminiscent of Parisian charm. Experience the lively atmosphere of the French Market, where you can find a variety of French-inspired goods, including local crafts, spices, and fresh produce. Enjoy live jazz music in intimate venues in the French Quarter. New Orleans, with its rich French heritage, offers a captivating blend of cultures and flavors that will transport you to the heart of France while experiencing the unique energy of this vibrant American city. Don't forget to check out some of the museums, like the Mardi Gras Museum.
Have you ever been to one of these places? Do you have other recommendations? Share it with us in the comments section. We’re curious to know!
Here are four great Francophone destinations that will help you put your French into practice, while having fun.
Paris
If this is your first time in La Ville Lumière, you should definitely go see all the famous sites it has to offer. Put on your most comfortable shoes, and go walk the city around the Seine River, take your time soaking up the magnificence that is the Eiffel Tower, and go take pictures in front of the Arc de Triomphe. The clichés are a cliché for a reason, and everyone loves them.
In case you want to do something new, how about enjoying a day outside of Paris? Here are some options:
- Immerse yourself in the architectural beauty of Château de Fontainebleau: explore the grand halls, opulent apartments, and beautifully landscaped gardens of this UNESCO World Heritage. Fontainebleau is located approximately 55 kilometers (about 34.18 mi) southeast of Paris and can be reached by train in about one hour.
- Have a beach day at Deauville: this charming seaside town located on the Normandy coast of France, is known for its sandy beaches, picturesque boardwalk, and elegant architecture. To reach Deauville from Paris, you can take a direct train from Gare Saint-Lazare, and the journey takes approximately two and a half hours. It's recommended to check the train schedules in advance and plan your day accordingly.
- Go hiking at the Vallée de Chevreuse: located just southwest of the city, it offers a range of scenic trails amidst rolling hills, charming villages, and lush forests. You can embark on a leisurely hike passing by beautiful landscapes, historical sites such as the Château de Breteuil, and the enchanting Rambouillet Forest.
Avignon
The most famous summer activity in Avignon is the renowned Festival d’Avignon. This annual festival is a celebration of performing arts, including theater, dance, music, and visual arts. Take advantage of the warm evenings by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of street performances, outdoor concerts, and theatrical productions. Explore the historic sites of Avignon, such as the Palais des Papes and the famous Pont d'Avignon, during the day, and in the evenings, embrace the artistic brilliance and cultural richness of the city.
Quebec City
How about a quick trip to Quebec City to indulge in the city's culinary delights? The best way is to explore the Quartier Petit Champlain. Start your gastronomic journey with a visit to local bakeries and pastry shops, where you can savor traditional treats like croissants, maple tarts, and mouthwatering pastries. Take a stroll along the cobblestone streets and stop at cozy bistros offering delectable French-Canadian cuisine, such as tourtière, poutine, and maple-infused dishes. Don't miss the chance to sample local cheeses and sip on artisanal ice cider, a specialty of the region.
New Orleans
If you want to know more about the relationship Between France and the U.S., there's nothing better than visiting New Orleans. Begin your journey by strolling down the vibrant streets, admiring the buildings with their wrought-iron balconies and colorful facades reminiscent of Parisian charm. Experience the lively atmosphere of the French Market, where you can find a variety of French-inspired goods, including local crafts, spices, and fresh produce. Enjoy live jazz music in intimate venues in the French Quarter. New Orleans, with its rich French heritage, offers a captivating blend of cultures and flavors that will transport you to the heart of France while experiencing the unique energy of this vibrant American city. Don't forget to check out some of the museums, like the Mardi Gras Museum.
Have you ever been to one of these places? Do you have other recommendations? Share it with us in the comments section. We’re curious to know!
Bruna Franco
Membership Manager
Bruna first joined the Center as a member, looking for an opportunity to practice French and to be around French culture. She is now thrilled to be the Membership Manager and to provide members with the amazing experience she was previously able to enjoy herself. She is a native Portuguese speaker who, by the age of eight, knew she wanted to be multilingual someday. Working at the French Library now seems like a dream come true.
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