France: a country of diversity and emotion
France is not one destination — it’s many.
Each region has its soul: Alsace with its half-timbered houses, Brittany with its wild coast, Burgundy with its wines, and Paris with its light.
Our guides take you from famous landmarks to hidden gems, from villages to vineyards, to experience the real France.
What You’ll Find Here
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Weekend trips and itineraries across France
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Regional guides: Brittany, Alsace, Provence, Corsica, Vendée...
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Cultural walks through castles, villages, and UNESCO sites
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French gastronomy: recipes, local markets, wines, and traditions
"Les poilus. In other words,the hairy men, as the French soldiers who fought on the Front during the First World War were affectionately and admiringly known. Why this nickname? Because they had courage...
We know at least the melody by heart, often the words, sometimes we find them kitsch, but very often, they inevitably bring back memories of the carols we hear once a year at Christmas time. With Monsieur de France, discover the origins and lyrics of some of France's Christmas carols.
We all know that Father Christmas comes down the chimney. And it's been a while since the chimney dates back to at least Roman times. For a very long time, the fireplace was the centre of the home, before becoming a decorative feature. Fireplaces can be found in many of France's châteaux and, contrary to what you might think, Versailles is not the place with the most of them. Would you like a little history of the fireplace in preparation for Santa's visit?
French communes are the foundation of local administration in France. This page explains where they come from, how they evolved from the Revolution to modern times, and what role they continue to play in everyday civic life.
article updated on December 15, 2025
Christmas in France
France
Nativity Scene History: Origins, Meaning and Traditions
Jérôme Prod'homme
The nativity scene is one of the most powerful symbols of Christmas worldwide. Displayed in homes, churches and public spaces, it represents far more than a decorative tradition. Understanding the history of the nativity scene means understanding how a religious story became a shared cultural ritual.
Article updated on December 19, 2025
It is a very old tradition to give gifts to loved ones at the end of the year. The Romans were already doing it more than 2,000 years ago. Santa Claus is even more recent. Before him, others were responsible for giving gifts to children.
It's the emblem of the end-of-year festivities, and Christmas in particular: the Christmas tree. Every year, 6,700,000 of them are sold in France, of which almost 6,000,000 are natural. And yet the fir hasn't always been so popular. They flopped at Versailles in the 18th century, before becoming a festive icon in the 19th century. A surprising consequence of a war and the arrival of many Alsatians in the capital. Monsieur de France tells the story.
Christmas in France
France
Why Are There Three Wise Men? Bible, Meaning, Tradition
Jérôme Prod'homme
Why do people speak of three Wise Men when the Bible never gives a precise number? This idea developed over time through tradition, symbolism, and the famous gifts offered to the infant Jesus.
article updated on December 18, 2025
Although it's not officially known who invented meringue, and the Swiss believe they are the originators, all leads back to France, where the first written recipes for meringue can be found as early as the 17th century. Appreciated by Louis XV's wife, Queen Marie, and adored by Marie Antoinette, meringue is a delicacy that's easy enough to make, thanks to Monsieur de France's recipe.
All Saints’ Day (Toussaint) in France is celebrated on November 1st and honors all recognized saints. Rooted in Christian tradition, it has also become a time of family remembrance, when people visit cemeteries and maintain long-standing cultural customs.
article updated on December 16, 2025
