How food and wine lovers can make the most of their time in France
How food and wine lovers can make the most of their time in France
France is world-renowned for its food and drink. French cuisine is integral to the French culture and identity, so being able to experience this is a truly unique experience. While spectacular cuisine can be enjoyed all over the country, there are a select few destinations that stand out from the rest. Here are some of the top destinations.
Paris
Want to pair the bustling city life with your food and drink-filled adventure? There’s a reason Paris is one of Europe’s great food capitals. You can pick up fresh pastries, macaroons and plenty more sweet treats at every turn, plus you can hunt out authentic French restaurants squeezed down side streets. You have lots of fine dining choices too – the capital boasts the most amount of Michelin stars of any European city. Make use of the metro system to zip around to each destination.
Eguisheim
A picture-perfect fairy tale town, Eguisheim makes for the ideal setting to enjoy food and drink in. Think Alsatian half-timbered houses are brightly coloured with flower-filled window sills like you see in books and films. The flowers have earnt the town several prizes over the years. Make sure you sample Alsace wines in all their glory by visiting a wine cellar or by visiting an local winegrower to get insight from true experts.
Menton
Situated on the French Riviera, Menton is home to Mirazur, one of the world’s most esteemed restaurants. It’s a three Michelin-starred venue run by Argentinian chef Maura Colagreco. An episode of UK Masterchef Professionals was filmed here too, affirming its prestigious reputation in the world of food. This region is approximately three degrees warmer than the rest of France, promising fresh ingredients alongside a lovely climate. The local cuisine takes influence from the likes of Bel Paese and the Mediterranean, so expect seafood and vegetable-focused dishes aplenty.
Burgundy
With its untouched landscapes and endless vineyards, Burgundy is a must for any wine lover – and especially if you enjoy classics like Pinor Noir and Chardonnay. Include a visit to Côte de Nuits wine region and a trip to the grand cru vineyards of Chablis. The architecture here makes it feel as though you’ve stepped into a fairy-tale, with medieval villages set against grand cathedrals. Make your life easier by booking any holiday transfers in advance, so you can seamlessly move onto your destination.
Lyon
Due to its location in the south-eastern part of France, Lyon is a mecca for agricultural produce thanks to its highly fertile soil. It’s also known as the gastronomic capital of the world – a good start for anyone seeking out staple delicacies like escargots à la Bourguignonne cooked to perfection with garlic and parsley butter. Charcuterie is huge here too, with high-quality produce being sourced locally.