Our recommendations on the best travel books for France
France enchants visitors with its blend of culture, history, and natural splendor. From the romantic streets of Paris, with the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum, to the lavender fields of Provence and the snow-capped Alps, the country offers an array of unforgettable sights. Explore the fairy-tale châteaux of the Loire Valley, savor world-renowned wines in Bordeaux, or bask on the glamorous beaches of the French Riviera. Immerse yourself in the art scene of Montmartre, indulge in gourmet cuisine at Michelin-starred restaurants, or wander through charming medieval villages in Alsace. A comprehensive travel guide can unlock hidden treasures and local insights, enhancing your French adventure beyond the typical tourist experience.
Our Travel Book Recommendations - France
Our Travel Book Recommendations - France
Fodor’s Essential France
Our top recommendation for those traveling to France is Fodor's Essential France. This expertly crafted guidebook opens doors to a world of possibilities, from scaling the iconic Eiffel Tower to savoring exquisite wines in Burgundy's rolling vineyards. Packed with insider tips, detailed maps, and stunning color photos, this guide empowers you to create your own authentic French experience. Whether you're drawn to the vibrant streets of Paris, the sun-drenched coastlines of the Riviera, or the charming villages of Provence, local experts illuminate the path to hidden gems and must-see attractions. With carefully curated recommendations, practical planning tools, and rich cultural insights, Fodor's Essential France transforms your travel dreams into reality, inviting you to immerse yourself in the beauty, history, and joie de vivre that define this extraordinary country.
DK Eyewitness Paris
One of the best guides for those going to Paris is the DK Eyewitness Paris. This updated travel guide brings Paris to life with expert insights, detailed breakdowns of must-see sights, great maps, and hand-drawn illustrations that place you inside the city's iconic buildings and neighborhoods. Whether you're interested in street art on Rue Dénoyez, the grandeur of Versailles, or cooking classes at La Cuisine, the guide ensures you don't miss out on Paris's world-famous attractions or its simpler pleasures like fresh produce markets and centuries-old cafés. With color-coded chapters covering different areas of the city, practical tips on dining and accommodation, and detailed guidance on the city’s museums, this guide offers honest recommendations for navigating Paris safely and efficiently.
Our Hearts are in France
Our Hearts Are in France, the latest offering from Victoria magazine's editors, takes readers on a captivating journey through the romantic landscapes of France, from Normandy's historic towns and Provence's lavender fields to Burgundy and Aquitaine's vineyards. This multifaceted book explores the majestic country's diverse beauty, from centuries-old chateaux to snow-capped mountains and charming villages, including the enchanting City of Light where Julia Child honed her culinary skills. Featuring stunning interiors, from Marie Antoinette's retreat to a Provençal farmhouse, alongside Gallic-inspired design ideas and delectable French recipes, this part travel guide, part design compendium, and part cookbook serves as an essential tribute for Francophiles, honoring the magical land that holds a special place in our hearts.
My Life in Provence, by Peter Mayle
My Life in Provence is a beautiful memoir by Peter Mayle recounting a year of his life, after moving to southeastern France with his wife to live in an old stone farmhouse. It is a pleasantly funny book, complete with luscious descriptions of the region's amazing food and wine, and of the couple's adjustment to a much slower and more relaxing life. Mayle's charming anecdotes about local customs, colorful characters, and the challenges of renovating their rustic home provide readers with an enchanting glimpse into the idyllic Provençal lifestyle.
French Country Cooking
One of the best ways to prepare for a trip to France is to immerse yourself in its renowned culinary culture. Among the numerous cookbooks celebrating French cuisine, French Country Cooking by Mimi Thorisson stands out as a beautifully crafted work that captures the essence of rural French living. Thorisson's approachable yet authentic recipes allow home cooks to recreate the flavors of the French countryside, while her evocative storytelling and stunning photography transport readers to charming villages and lush landscapes. This book is more than just a collection of recipes; it's an invitation to experience the French way of life through its most cherished medium: food.
Madeline
One of our absolute favorite series of children’s books is the Madeline series, written and illustrated by Austrian author Ludwig Bemelmans. The books focus on a seven-year-old girl named Madeline who lives in a beautiful Catholic boarding school in Paris. Madeline is the smallest but most adventurous in the group, the courageous heroine, and the only redhead. The stories are generally written entirely in rhyme, and the illustrations are captivating for younger readers. The books also showcase the beauty and charm of Paris itself. Madeline is now a media franchise with television and several films, but of course we believe the books are the best option. Learn more about the Madeline series here.