Travel for singles doesn’t have to be lonely. In fact, solo holidays give you the excuse and opportunity to see and do exactly what you want, which ensures a great trip. With a growing number of cheap singles holiday packages, there’s also been a rise in solo travellers forming small groups whilst abroad, so you get to meet new people whilst on holiday. We’ve decided to focus our attention in France. For more information, check out this article for tips on travelling alone.
France is the most visited country in the world for many reasons. There’s the great food and wine, the scenery, the various mountain ranges, Mediterranean beaches, numerous vineyards, sand dunes and so much more. In fact, with France’s overseas territories, you can experience any type of holiday with a French flavour.
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Solo Travel on St Martin
Most famous for its dramatic airport landing at Maho Beach, Saint Martin is split between France and the Netherlands. The French controlled north is less populated and more fashionable than the south. It is perhaps a little behind the rest of the world when it comes to solo travel so you’ll be able to experience this wonderful Caribbean island in a totally different way.
One popular excursion is the Catamaran Snorkel Sail. You’ll head out to one of Saint Martin’s most popular islands for a relaxing day both on and in the water with a 3 course lunch at Gran Case as a bonus. This day trip gives you the opportunity to meet fellow travellers plus the opportunity for some alone time should you want it. Win-win!
If you want to do a spot of shopping, Marigot is a popular town with lots of flea markets, shops, bars, and restaurants to explore.
Exploring Paris on Your Own
Paris may be one of the most romantic cities in the world but with its huge collection of galleries and museums, it’s also a great place for solo holidays. It’s been claimed that it would take you 75 days to see everything in the Louvre if you spent 60 seconds looking at each piece for eight hours a day. In short, there’s a lot to keep you occupied if you’re here alone.
Spend some time in a café or take a tour of the Seine on a Bateaux Mouches to see the Statue of Liberty, Ile de la Cité, Notre Dame, and much more. In the evening, head up the Arc de Triomphe to see the lights of Paris switch on and great views of the Eiffel Tower’s light show.
If you’re keen to stay away from any young couples on their first romantic break, head to the Catacombes de Paris. These ossuaries are located in the old mines of Paris and are home to around 6 million bodies.
Exploring the Outskirts of Paris
Why not broaden your horizons and expand your journey outside of Paris? Take a car and plan a route through some of France’s most popular and beautiful destinations.
Solo Travel in Versailles
Versailles is located close to the centre of Paris and is about an hour away. Historic sites can such as the Palace of Versailles can be found here. This was founded by King Louis XIV when he moved from Paris in 1682. It is now best known as a museum and art exhibition site. It’s also one of France’s foremost tourist attractions.
One of the main attractions in the Palace of Versailles is the Hall of Mirrors. It’s one of the most remarkable features of King Louis XIV building campaign. The main feature of the hall is the seventeen mirror-clad arches. They reflect the seventeen arcaded windows which overlook the gardens.
The Gardens of Versailles are situated to the west of the palace. They cover around 800 hectares of land. The gardens include pristine manicured lawns, beautiful arrays of flowers, along with sculptures and fountains dating from the time of Louis XIV.
Touring the Loire Valley
If you’re willing to travel slightly further away from Paris (just over 2 hours away to be precise), a visit to the Loire Valley is a great suggestion. It boasts a sunny climate, stunning scenery and world famous wines in what is one of the most beautiful regions of France.
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Between the Loire and Thouet rivers is Saumur, which is surrounded by the vineyards of Chinon, Bourgeil and Cotrauz du Layon.
You can also visit the Chateau de Villandry. This is the last of the great Renaissance Chateaux that was built on the banks of the Loire River. When it was first acquired by Jean Le Breton it was a medieval fortress. It was however soon transformed into a home and opened to the public in 1920. Another way you can explore the Loire Valley is by boat. Enjoy a discovery cruise while viewing the landscapes and towns of Saumur from the water.
Solo Holidays in Beauvais
Should you be interested in a more cultural adventure, you can take your car up to Beauvais. This city is located around 1 hour 30 minutes away and roughly 45 miles from Paris.
The city has a cathedral dedicated to Saint Peter. It is still incomplete and consists of seven apse-chapels. Undergoing a major restoration process in 2008, the interior exceeds 150 feet in height and contains medieval stained glass windows. These were made during the 13th, through to the 15th Century. The cathedral also has one of the oldest fully preserved mechanical clocks in Europe, dating between the 14th and 15th Century.
Solo Travel in Lyon
If you’re in France for the food, Lyon is well worth a visit. Known for its cuisine and silk making ability, Lyon is home to 19 Michelin starred restaurants although there are some fantastic alternatives on Rue des Marronniers.
Photo by: jeanmical/Fotolia
If you’re a fan of history or architecture, Lyon is home to a Roman amphitheatre, some wonderful Renaissance buildings, and the stunning Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. There are also a number of excellent museums to visit or you can choose between floating down the Rhône or Saône rivers on a river cruise. If you’re lucky, whilst here the ancient amphitheatre may be hosting a concert so keep an eye out for dates and tickets. Alternatively, head to Lyon Cathedral and its stunning 15th century Chapel de Bourbon.
Riviera Holidays for Singles
Head down to the French Riviera on your own and spoil yourself with a solo holiday filled with of luxury, relaxation, and great weather.
Whether you base yourself in Cannes, Saint Tropez, Monte Carlo, or anywhere in between, the Côte d’Azur is still one of the most popular playgrounds in the Med. If you don’t want to spend all your time on the beach, head to the Café de Paris in Monte Carlo for a coffee as you watch the world go by and plan your route through the city’s shopping district.
If you want to explore a garden or two (or 9), head to the Villa & Jardins Ephrussi de Rothschild on Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Classified as one of the Notable Gardens of France, Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild was donated to the Académie des Beaux Arts by Béatrice de Rothschild on her death.
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