It is often said that French people don't travel much...
Well, that's not entirely wrong, but we have an excellent excuse: France is already a incredible destination.
And foreign travelers understood that perfectly.
And if you plan to stay several weeks in France: to explore, work remotely, follow a personal project or really enjoy a region, know that medium-term rental is becoming one of the preferred formats for travelers. More flexible than a hotel, more comfortable than a quick stay, it allows you to experience France “from within”.
Because here, we don't do anything like everyone else (and sometimes, it's very good that way).
But above all, because France brings everything together: vibrant cities, peaceful villages, peaceful villages, exceptional food, rich culture, sea, mountains, vineyards, castles, castles, castles, castles, markets, markets, traditional festivals...
Here's what travelers say most often:
“Everything is beautiful, even the random little streets.”
And it's true: strolling through the Marais in Paris, in Old Lyon, around Strasbourg Cathedral or in the streets of Montpellier... it's already an experience.
“We eat too well (but really too much).”
Between bakeries that smell of butter, cheeses that smell like... The cheese, wines, regional specialties... hard to resist.
“We understand why French people are proud of their culture.”
Museums, heritage, gastronomy, cinema, fashion, design: French culture shines everywhere.
“You can experience 12 different trips in a single country.”
And that's why more and more travelers are now choosing to settle in one city for several weeks before moving on to the next. This slower pace, which we are seeing everywhere in Europe in 2025, is completely transforming the experience: we live like a local, we really understand the culture... and we enjoy without stress.
French Riviera → castles of the Loire → Brittany → Brittany → Provence → Alsace...
By train or by car, everything is accessible.
Do you really want to experience France like a local? Here is what we recommend.
Enjoy a croissant, a traditional baguette, a pain au chocolat (ask for a “chocolatine” if you are in the South-West!)
Tip from a local (very French): Dip your croissant into your coffee: it's as delicious as it is unspeakable.
Attention: the best bakeries often close between 13:00 and 16:00 and are closed on Sunday afternoons. Moreover, some shops also close on Sundays, evenings and in August.
No need to be an expert:
Red or white?
— If you eat cheese, fish, salads, or light dishes → a dry or aromatic white works great.
— If you enjoy meat, stews or richer cuisine → have a red one.
— And for the aperitif → rosé is a sure bet in summer.
And for a fun and easy tasting, try a wine bar:
Sacred rules:
The perfect kit:
The accompaniments we recommend:
— Fig jam
— Grapes, apples or nuts
— A little bit of green salad
— Pickles if you add charcuterie
When do we eat cheese? Always after the main course and before dessert.
The quiche Lorraine express:
• 1 shortcrust pastry
• 200 g lardons
• 3 eggs
• 20 cl of cream
• Salt and pepper
Preparation:
With a salad and a glass of white wine: success guaranteed! 😊
The French love to “wander around.”
But to really experience the city, you have to get away from the tourist circuits a bit.
Practical advice:
• Make sure your phone is fully charged
• Make sure your Maps app is working
• Then... go explore
Turn around the corner of a street, take the small alley on the right, let yourself be guided by your curiosity.
This is how you discover real French life, local cafes, local shops and charming alleys.
And if you stay longer: two, three, six weeks, you will see that the fun is even greater. We discover the habits, the small addresses, the seasons, the atmosphere of the neighborhoods...
This is exactly what those who opt for medium-term rentals are looking for today: to take the time to enjoy.
Here are a few gems:
The French markets are a spectacle in themselves: cheeses, charcuterie, flowers, oysters, chestnuts, cakes, pottery...
The most famous:
Here is the list of essentials (which many regret having forgotten 😅):
=> Universal adapter (French plug Type E)
=> Walking shoes (French cities = cobblestones)
=> A little coat even in summer (Paris can surprise...)
=> A tote bag (for markets and bakeries)
=> A scarf: essential from September to April
=> What to pay for small purchases (not all shops accept cards)
And if you come for a Medium duration, think of a few comfort essentials: notebook, small sports equipment, cozy clothes... You'll see, you quickly feel at home.
Promise, it's just between us...
• The restaurants serve from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. and from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
In between... it's closed.
• Many businesses close on Sundays, sometimes in the evening and often in August.
• We kiss each other (but not everyone)
A simple “Good morning!” with a smile works everywhere. In some cities like Toulouse, we even say “Thank you goodbye! ” when leaving the buses 😊
• Coffee = small
If you want a big one, order an “elongated coffee.”
• Tipping is not mandatory
But much appreciated.
• Strikes and demonstrations are part of French culture: they are not dangerous, just... typical.
Must-have cultural tip:
Sit on a terrace, chairs facing the street, order a coffee or a drink, and... watch the passers-by.
Or, while walking, stroll past the terraces where people chat for hours.
That's it, French life...
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When you travel to France, it is better to have your own cocoon to fully enjoy the French experience: a well-equipped, well-located accommodation, with autonomous check-in, real cuisine, clear information in English and some good local addresses.
That's good news: OIQIA offers all of this in more than 30 cities across the country.
Warm apartments, decorated with care, perfect for an authentic, comfortable and uncomplicated stay.
The +: Our Traveler Assistance is available 365 days a year to help you, advise you, guide you.
We don't say it enough: mid-term rentals are becoming the new way to travel.
Stay two or three weeks in Lille to explore the North, a month in Alsace to experience the winter markets, six weeks in Toulouse to work from home under the sun...
Many travelers adopt it because it is a softer, more economical, more authentic model.
And France lends itself wonderfully to this way of life.
France is not perfect, but it is magical... especially when you take the time to discover it.
Whether you stay for a few days or several weeks, a well-thought-out stay transforms everything.
And every traveller will find their version of the country there:
gastronomic, cultural, romantic, sporty, historical or simply... human.
We hope that this article will make you want to discover France with curiosity, gluttony and a bit of audacity.
Book your next stay in France on: www.oiqia.com/catalog
Welcome and have a good trip!
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