France has a fairly moderate climate with mild summers and cool winters for most of the country. Near the Mediterranean, summers are warmer than in other areas. In the north and central regions, which includes Paris, the winters can be fairly rainy. In Alsace-Lorraine and other mountainous areas, the winters are slightly colder.
The climate on the Atlantic is similar to the climate on the East Coast of the United States with mild winters and more rainfall that inland areas. There is also often sea fog along the coast. Like the United States, the farther south you go on the Atlantic coast of France, the milder the temperatures are. The western area of France is the rainiest, especially in October and November.
The best time to visit France is in the spring or summer, from April to August. Spring offers the best weather and there are fewer tourists.
The railway network in France is managed by The Société nationale des chemins de fer français (SNCF). If you are coming to France from London, the Eurostar is the best way to travel. There are five main train stations in Paris so be sure that the one you use is the one closest to your destination.
Ferries are also an option, especially if traveling from England. There are also ferries on the Mediterranean that travel to Corsica, Nice, Tougon and Marseille.
There is a large bus transportation network that provides connections to almost all of Europe, including France. There is also a large national bus network in France connecting over 200 destinations.
It is possible to use an automobile to get around France as well. In order to do so, you must have an international driver’s license, a certificate of registration and a certificate of insurance. Be sure to follow all traffic laws a foreigners fall under the discretion of the prosecutor and your car could be impounded.
Larger cities also offer metro and tram systems as well as intercity bus systems. In addition, you can find taxis as well as rideshare options.