Travel France: Plan Your Bus Journey
Traveling to France offers a mix of rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Whether you're exploring iconic cities like Paris and Lyon, or venturing into charming villages and scenic vineyards, France has something for every traveler.
Our France travel guide provides helpful France travel advice to make your trip seamless. Travel France by bus is an affordable and convenient option, allowing you to access both well-known destinations and hidden gems with ease. Explore the best of France and make the most of your travel to France experience.
Most Liked Bus Routes
Best Places to Visit in France by Bus
How to Get Around France
Getting around France is easy and convenient, with a wide range of transportation options available. Trains are a popular choice for long-distance travel, connecting major cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille.
Buses offer an affordable way to explore both cities and rural areas. For more flexibility, car rentals are ideal for visiting smaller towns and scenic regions. Additionally, taxis and ride-sharing services are commonly available in urban areas, while flights can be a quick option for traveling between regions. Whatever your preference, France has something for every type of traveler.
France by Bus
Traveling by bus in France is an affordable and convenient way to explore the country. With an extensive network connecting major cities, towns, and scenic regions, buses provide easy access to popular destinations like Paris, Nice, Bordeaux, and Marseille.
Bus services offer comfort with amenities such as air conditioning and Wi-Fi, making long journeys enjoyable. Whether you're traveling between cities or exploring the countryside, buses are an excellent choice for those looking for a budget-friendly and scenic travel experience in France.
Bus companies in France
There are over 28 bus companies operating in France. 13 companies offer intercity bus lines, 3 companies drive airport shuttles, 5 companies operate regional and local lines, 5 bus companies offer bus rental and 1 companies offer bus tours. The bus companies are located in 10 cities throughout the country. The majority of companies can be found in Paris and Nanterre.13 intercity bus companies operating in France are very different in size. The largest France company BlaBlaCar Bus connects more than 226 cities, whereas the smallest intercity bus company Cars et Voyages only has service to 8 cities.
Below we have listed some of the most popular bus companies in France. Full list of bus companies in France can be found here.
Other Ways of Getting Around France
In addition to buses, France offers several other ways to get around. The train network is highly efficient, providing fast connections between major cities and regions, such as Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. For more flexibility, renting a car is ideal for exploring the countryside, small towns, and coastal areas at your own pace.
Domestic flights are also available for longer distances, while taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are convenient in cities. Additionally, many cities offer bike rentals and public transport, such as trams and metros, for easy urban travel.
What to see in France?
As a visitor of France, you have lots of great France sights to visit. Some of the most popular sights are Chartres Cathedral (Chartres), Louvre (Paris) and Eiffel Tower (Paris). That said, there are a lot of other sights in France worth visiting! Some of the sights do not have an entrance fee, whilst others charge for entrance. Below you will find a list of the most popular sights in France:
Chartres Cathedral
monumental buildingLouvre
museumEiffel Tower
monumentVanoise National Park
national parkNotre-Dame de la Garde
monumental buildingPalais des Papes
monumental buildingBest Places to Visit in France
France is home to a diverse range of destinations that cater to all types of travelers. Paris, the capital, is famous for its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre-Dame. The French Riviera, with its glamorous beaches in cities like Nice and Cannes, attracts sun-seekers, while Provence offers picturesque lavender fields and charming villages.
For history buffs, Versailles and Normandy are essential visits, while the Loire Valley is known for its stunning castles. Lyon and Bordeaux are perfect for food and wine lovers, while the Alps offer breathtaking mountain views and winter sports.
Paris
Paris, the capital of France, is renowned for its timeless beauty, rich history, and cultural landmarks. Visitors can explore iconic sites like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
Stroll along the Champs-Élysées, visit the charming neighborhoods of Montmartre, or enjoy the art and cafes of Le Marais. Known as the "City of Light," Paris also boasts world-class shopping, exquisite dining, and vibrant nightlife, making it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the globe.
Popular routes from Paris:
Toulouse
Toulouse, located in the southwest of France, is known as "La Ville Rose" (The Pink City) due to its distinctive pink terracotta buildings. This vibrant city is rich in history and culture, with highlights including the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, the Capitole de Toulouse, and the Pont Neuf.
As a hub for the aerospace industry, Toulouse also offers modern attractions alongside its medieval charm. Visitors can explore the Canal du Midi, enjoy the local cuisine, and immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of this dynamic southern city.
Popular routes from Toulouse:
Marseille
Marseille, located on the Mediterranean coast, is France's second-largest city and a vibrant cultural melting pot. Known for its rich history, it boasts landmarks like the Old Port (Vieux-Port), the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, and the historic Palais des Congrès.
As a gateway to the stunning Calanques National Park, Marseille offers both urban excitement and natural beauty. The city’s diverse culture is reflected in its food, music, and arts scene, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique blend of history, culture, and coastal charm.
Popular routes from Marseille:
Bordeaux
Bordeaux, located in the heart of France's wine country, is renowned for its exceptional vineyards and world-class wines. The city’s elegant architecture, including landmarks like the Place de la Bourse and the Water Mirror (Miroir d'eau), showcases its rich heritage.
Bordeaux is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its stunning 18th-century buildings and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore the Cité du Vin wine museum, stroll along the Garonne River, and enjoy delicious local cuisine, making it a perfect destination for wine lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Popular routes from Bordeaux:
Lyon
Lyon, often considered the culinary capital of France, is a city rich in history and culture. Located at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon is known for its stunning Renaissance architecture, vibrant food scene, and picturesque old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Visitors can explore landmarks like the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, the Presqu'île district, and the Parc de la Tête d'Or. With its blend of modernity and tradition, Lyon offers a unique experience for travelers looking to immerse themselves in French culture.
Popular routes from Lyon:
Val Thorens
Val Thorens is one of the highest ski resorts in the world, located in the French Alps. Part of the Three Valleys ski area, it offers access to over 600 kilometers of slopes, making it a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts.
Known for its excellent snow conditions, modern facilities, and a wide range of activities beyond skiing, Val Thorens is perfect for those looking for an active and luxurious mountain retreat. Whether you're into skiing, snowboarding, or après-ski activities, Val Thorens combines adventure with breathtaking alpine views.
Popular routes from Val Thorens:
Why Travel to France
France is a dream destination for travelers seeking a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris to the sun-kissed beaches of the French Riviera, there is something for everyone.
Explore world-class art in museums like the Louvre, taste exquisite French wines and cuisine, and immerse yourself in the charm of quaint villages and scenic landscapes. Whether you're a culture enthusiast, foodie, or adventure seeker, France offers an unforgettable experience.
Best Time to Visit France
The best time to visit France is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October), when the weather is mild, and the tourist crowds are smaller. These seasons are ideal for exploring cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille, as well as enjoying outdoor activities in regions like Provence and the French Riviera.
Summer (July and August) is perfect for beach vacations but tends to be crowded and hot, while winter (December to February) is great for skiing in the Alps and enjoying festive events.
Travel Tips for France
Language: The official language is French, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic French phrases can enhance your experience.
Currency: France uses the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are commonly accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller towns.
Tipping: Tipping is generally not expected, as service charge is included in your bill, but leaving a small tip (5-10%) for good service is appreciated.
Transportation: France has an excellent public transportation system. Trains and buses are the best ways to travel between cities, and the Paris Métro is ideal for getting around Paris.
Safety: France is a generally safe country for travelers. However, like any tourist destination, always be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas and on public transport.
Cultural Etiquette: When entering someone's home or a shop, it's polite to greet with “Bonjour”. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, such as churches or cathedrals.
Travel France Overview
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Best Time to Visit | Spring (April to June) and Fall (Sept to Oct) |
Major Cities | Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, Nice |
Popular Attractions | Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, French Riviera, Mont Saint-Michel |
Transportation | Buses, Trains, Domestic Flights, Car Hire |
Travel Advice | Learn basic French phrases; book in advance for high season |
Currency | Euro (€) |