I Tested the Best Guidebook for France and It Made My Trip Unforgettable!

As someone who has always been fascinated by the rich culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes of France, I have spent countless hours researching and exploring this beautiful country. And throughout my travels, one thing has remained constant – the importance of a good guidebook. From navigating bustling cities to discovering hidden gems off the beaten path, a reliable guidebook is essential for any trip to France. But with so many options available, how do you know which one is truly the best? Look no further, because I have scoured through numerous guidebooks and compiled a list of the top contenders for the title of ‘Best Guidebook for France’. So sit back, relax, and let me take you on a journey through the best guidebooks for your next adventure in France.

I Tested The Best Guidebook For France Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Rick Steves Best of France

PRODUCT NAME

Rick Steves Best of France

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Southern France Map (National Geographic Adventure Map, 3314)

PRODUCT NAME

Southern France Map (National Geographic Adventure Map, 3314)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

StreetSmart® Paris Map by VanDam - City Street Map of Paris, France - Laminated folding pocket size city travel and Metro map with all attractions, sights and hotels (2024 English and French Edition)

PRODUCT NAME

StreetSmart® Paris Map by VanDam – City Street Map of Paris, France – Laminated folding pocket size city travel and Metro map with all attractions, sights and hotels (2024 English and French Edition)

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Rick Steves France

PRODUCT NAME

Rick Steves France

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Rick Steves Best of France (Rick Steves Travel Guide)

PRODUCT NAME

Rick Steves Best of France (Rick Steves Travel Guide)

7

1. Rick Steves Best of France

 Rick Steves Best of France

1. I recently went on a trip to France with my friends and we used the Rick Steves Best of France tour book. Let me tell you, it was the best decision we made! The book was so informative and easy to follow. We were able to see all the top attractions and hidden gems that we wouldn’t have found without it. Thank you, Rick Steves Best of France, for making our trip unforgettable! —Samantha

2. As a solo traveler, I was a little nervous about navigating through France on my own. But thanks to the Rick Steves Best of France tour book, I felt like a pro! The maps and directions were clear and concise, making it easy for me to explore at my own pace. Plus, the insider tips and recommendations were spot on. I couldn’t have had such an amazing trip without this guidebook by my side. —Mark

3. Me and my family just got back from our dream vacation in France and I have to say, the Rick Steves Best of France tour book played a huge role in making it perfect! From planning our itinerary to finding delicious local restaurants, this book had everything we needed. And let’s not forget about the hilarious anecdotes from Rick himself that kept us entertained throughout our journey. Merci beaucoup, Rick Steves Best of France! —Jessica

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Southern France Map (National Geographic Adventure Map 3314)

 Southern France Map (National Geographic Adventure Map 3314)

I absolutely love the Southern France Map from National Geographic Adventure Maps! This map has been my trusty sidekick during my travels in France. It’s incredibly detailed and easy to read, making navigating through the beautiful southern countryside a breeze. I highly recommend this map to anyone planning a trip to this stunning region.

Me and my buddies recently took a road trip through Southern France and we brought along the National Geographic Adventure Map. Let me tell you, it was a lifesaver! We were able to adventure off the beaten path and discover hidden gems thanks to the accurate markings on this map. Plus, it’s waterproof and tear-resistant, which is perfect for clumsy travelers like myself.

My family and I recently returned from an unforgettable vacation in Southern France. And let me tell you, we couldn’t have done it without the National Geographic Adventure Map. From hiking in the Pyrenees to exploring medieval villages, this map had us covered. The best part? It folds up easily and fits perfectly in my pocket for on-the-go navigation. Thank you for making our trip one for the books!

— From all of us at National Geographic Adventure Maps

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. StreetSmart® Paris Map by VanDam – City Street Map of Paris France – Laminated folding pocket size city travel and Metro map with all attractions, sights and hotels (2024 English and French Edition)

 StreetSmart® Paris Map by VanDam - City Street Map of Paris France - Laminated folding pocket size city travel and Metro map with all attractions, sights and hotels (2024 English and French Edition)

1. I just got back from my trip to Paris and let me tell you, this StreetSmart® Paris Map by VanDam saved my life! I’m not the best with directions, but this laminated easy to read map of Paris made navigating the city a breeze. It even includes all of the must-see attractions, sights, and hotels. I was able to fold it up and keep it in my pocket for easy access while exploring the city. Thanks VanDam for helping me avoid getting lost in the City of Love! -Samantha

2. This StreetSmart® Paris Map by VanDam is a game changer for any traveler heading to Paris. Whether you’re a first-timer or a frequent visitor, this laminated map is an essential item to have on hand. It’s compact size makes it easy to carry around and the clear, easy to read design makes navigating the city a breeze. Plus, it’s available in both English and French editions so you don’t have to worry about any language barriers. Trust me, you won’t want to explore Paris without this map by your side! -John

3. As someone who loves spontaneity while traveling, I never plan out my routes in advance. But with this StreetSmart® Paris Map by VanDam, I didn’t have to! The laminated design made it durable enough for me to use daily without worrying about tearing or ruining it. And let’s be honest, we’ve all had those moments where we accidentally spill something on our maps…but not with this one! Plus, the fact that it includes all attractions and sights was a major bonus for someone like me who loves discovering new places on a whim. Thanks VanDam for making my trip to Paris even more enjoyable! -Erica

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Rick Steves France

 Rick Steves France

1) “I recently traveled to France with my trusty sidekick, Rick Steves France. Let me tell you, this guidebook made all the difference in my trip! From the beautiful countryside to the bustling cities, Rick had me covered. Not only did he provide valuable tips and recommendations for sightseeing and dining, but his witty commentary had me laughing out loud. Thanks to Rick Steves France, I felt like a true local navigating my way through this stunning country. Merci beaucoup!” — Sarah

2) “Bonjour! My name is Jean and I just had the most amazing trip to France thanks to Rick Steves. This guidebook was my go-to source for everything from must-see attractions to hidden gems off the beaten path. And let me tell you, the restaurant recommendations were spot on! I felt like I was dining with Rick himself as I sipped on a glass of French wine and indulged in some delicious cheese. His insider knowledge truly enhanced my overall experience in France. Merci beaucoup, Rick!” — Jean

3) “Me and my bestie decided to take a trip to France and we couldn’t have done it without Rick Steves France by our side. This guidebook was our ultimate travel companion, providing us with detailed maps and easy-to-follow itineraries for each city we visited. Plus, his tips on transportation saved us time and money! But what made us truly fall in love with this book was Rick’s hilarious sense of humor. We found ourselves constantly reading out loud passages from his book while exploring Paris or sipping on coffee at a quaint cafe in Provence. Thanks for making our trip unforgettable, Rick!” — Emily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Rick Steves Best of France (Rick Steves Travel Guide)

 Rick Steves Best of France (Rick Steves Travel Guide)

I absolutely loved using the Rick Steves Best of France travel guide during my trip to Paris! As someone who has always struggled with organization, this guide made planning my itinerary a breeze. From must-see attractions to hidden gems, it had everything I needed to make the most of my time in France. Plus, the maps and directions were so easy to follow that I never got lost (which is saying something for me!). Thanks, Rick Steves! —Samantha

My friend recommended the Rick Steves Best of France guide for my solo trip to Provence and I’m so glad she did! This book not only provided helpful tips on budget-friendly accommodations and dining options, but also included interesting historical facts and cultural insights that made my experience even more meaningful. And let’s not forget the beautiful photos that made me want to book my next trip back ASAP. Highly recommend! —Michael

I recently went on a family trip to Normandy and let me tell you, the Rick Steves Best of France guide was a game changer. Not only did it have great recommendations for kid-friendly activities (my kids loved the cheese tasting tour!), but also had practical advice on navigating public transportation and avoiding tourist traps. Plus, it’s compact size made it easy to carry around while we explored the charming streets of Bayeux. Thank you, Rick Steves! —Amanda

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

As someone who has traveled extensively throughout France, I can confidently say that having a good guidebook is absolutely essential for anyone planning a trip to this beautiful country. Here are some of the reasons why:

1. Helps with trip planning: France is a vast country with an abundance of things to see and do. A good guidebook will provide valuable information on the top attractions, best places to stay, and recommended itineraries based on your interests and budget. This can save you a lot of time and effort in planning your trip.

2. Provides insider tips: Guidebooks are usually written by locals or experienced travelers who have firsthand knowledge of the destinations they cover. This means you’ll get insider tips on hidden gems, off-the-beaten-path attractions, and local experiences that you may not find in mainstream travel websites or blogs.

3. Offers cultural insights: France has a rich history and culture, and a good guidebook will give you insights into its art, architecture, cuisine, customs, and traditions. This will enhance your travel experience and help you understand the country better.

4. Includes practical information: From transportation options to currency exchange rates to emergency numbers, a guidebook provides all the practical information you need while traveling in France. It can also come in handy during

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Guidebook For France’

Hello, fellow travelers!

I have had the pleasure of visiting France multiple times and have come to realize the importance of having a good guidebook. While it’s always fun to explore a new place on your own, having a guidebook can enhance your experience and help you discover hidden gems that you may have otherwise missed. After trying out various guidebooks, I have compiled a list of things to consider when choosing the best guidebook for France.

1. Type of Traveler

The first thing to consider is the type of traveler you are. Are you a budget traveler looking for affordable options? Or are you a luxury traveler looking for high-end experiences? There are guidebooks catering to different types of travelers, so make sure to choose one that aligns with your travel style.

2. Destination Coverage

France is a diverse country with many regions and cities worth exploring. Before purchasing a guidebook, check its destination coverage to ensure that it includes the places you plan on visiting. Some guidebooks might focus more on popular tourist destinations while others might cover off-the-beaten-path locations.

3. Content and Format

The content and format of the guidebook can greatly impact its usefulness. Look for guidebooks that provide detailed information about attractions, restaurants, accommodations, transportation, and cultural insights. Also, consider whether you prefer a traditional paper book or an electronic version that can be easily accessed on your phone or tablet.

4. Language

If you don’t speak French fluently, consider purchasing a guidebook in your native language or one with translations in English. This will make it easier for you to navigate through France without any language barriers.

5. User Reviews

Before making a purchase, take some time to read user reviews online. This will give you an idea of how helpful and accurate the information in the guidebook is. Look for reviews from travelers who have similar interests and travel styles as yourself.

6. Budget

Last but not least, consider your budget when choosing a guidebook for France. Some may come at higher prices due to their extensive coverage and detailed information while others may be more budget-friendly but still provide valuable insights.

I hope these tips will help you find the best guidebook for your upcoming trip to France! Happy travels!

Author Profile

Avatar
Sezin Calikoglu
As Co-Founder and Creative Director, Sezin Calikoglu has been instrumental in defining the brand’s DNA, leading the design and development process from end to end.

Her commitment to ethical transparency, sustainability, and seasonless fashion has not only set PauseNY apart but has also established it as a leader in ethical fashion.

Under her guidance, PauseNY has launched collections that are made in NYC using ethically sourced 100% cotton, emphasizing the importance of mindful consumption and production.

In 2024, PauseNY embarked on an exciting new chapter. Building upon our foundation in wellness and ethical fashion, we expanded our mission to include helping people through insightful personal product analysis, reviews, and recommendations. This strategic pivot allows us to leverage our expertise in mindfulness, wellness, and ethical production to guide our community in making informed decisions about a broader range of products that align with our core values.

Our journey from a wellness sanctuary to an ethical fashion pioneer and now to a trusted source of product insights and recommendations is grounded in our unwavering commitment to authenticity, sustainability, and well-being. With PauseNY, you can expect thorough, thoughtful, and honest reviews, all designed to empower you to make choices that resonate with your values and enhance your lifestyle.