Rick Steves France

Normally I swear by Rick Steves. However, this guide is not a guide for all of France--it ignores the southwest of France. No mention of Toulouse, Bordeaux, Lourdes, etc. Very disappointed.

I am planning a trip to Bordeaux France and expected this guide to have lots of good information on Bordeaux, but there was nothing about it other than to reference its distance from St Emilion. I was sorely disappointed.

There's no doubt that Steve has lots of experience in France. The trouble is, you only get the places he really likes. And I found that the places I'm interested in are completely different from his. So no information helpful there. I also found some off-comments knocking wine from within the Loire Valley ("mediocre wine"), for wines that are among my favorites. So, some annoying aspects of the book too.

This was invaluable for our weeklong trip to Paris and the Loire. This under-$20 book is the BEST investment you can make for your trip to France. Rick's explanations are second-to-none, at least for English / American readers. Excellent advice not only for itineraries, specific activities and attractions, lodging and eating, but also the best ways to get around, communicate, not have things stolen, and generally to enjoy your trip. Thank you Rick!

Covers everything you need to know to have a wonderful vacation in France.

From wonderful location recommendations to smart itinerary ideas, this guide book is packed full of useful information. If you’re looking for ways to shortcut your planning to focus on must see sites, this book is essential!

River cruise in November and ocean in May 2022. Needed updated info for France stops.

Good informationExcited to use in our trip

Rick Steves guides are not for those who want to travel at the classiest level, and his videos can be a bit corny. But they are extremely well-researched and you will find excellent tips that save you a lot of money. Several times in Europe, I have followed some bit of advice and ended up ahead of the line or saving much money. Caveats: In summer, the restaurants he recommends are often over-booked. Also, he skips certain towns and places that may be of interest. Little here on the wine area of Bordeaux -- a big mistake, in my opinion. Marseilles is not covered, though Nice and other parts of the Riviera are. But when he does cover an area, his comments and tips are worthwhile, especially for first-time visitors.

Disappointed in this book. Did not have cities we are visiting in it.