TOP 10 EXPERIENCES

For France

7. Relax at French cafés and relish the cuisine

Relaxing at French cafés and enjoying the local cuisine is an indispensable part of the quintessential French experience. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant café culture and savour the exquisite flavours of French gastronomy. Begin your journey in Paris, the heart of café culture. Historic cafés like Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots in Saint-Germain-des-Prés have been cultural hotspots for decades, once frequented by intellectuals and artists. Enjoy a café au lait on their terraces while soaking in the ambience of the city. In Lyon, often regarded as the gastronomic capital of France, you can explore traditional bouchons – small bistros that serve local specialties like quenelles and Lyonnaise salads. Lyon’s culinary scene is a combination of homely comfort and gourmet innovation. The Mediterranean city of Marseille offers a unique culinary experience with its seaside cafés and the famous bouillabaisse, a rich fish stew that epitomizes Provençal cuisine. In Bordeaux, apart from its world-class wines, the city’s cafés and bistros offer an array of culinary delights. Indulge in canelés, a local pastry, and enjoy the fusion of French and Basque cuisine. Nice, on the French Riviera, introduces you to the flavours of the Mediterranean with dishes like salade niçoise and socca. The city’s cafés, with their laid-back atmosphere, are perfect for enjoying these local dishes. In the picturesque region of Alsace, cities like Strasbourg and Colmar boast charming cafés where you can sample Alsatian specialities such as tarte flambée and choucroute, reflecting the region’s unique blend of French and German influences.