If you are a rugby fan and planning to travel to France for the Rugby World Cup 2023, you might be wondering how to make the most of your trip. France is a beautiful and diverse country that offers a lot of attractions, culture, and gastronomy to explore. But it also has some specificities that you need to be aware of before you go. Here are some tips and advice on what to consider when travelling to France for Rugby World Cup 2023.
How to get there
One of the advantages of travelling to France for Rugby World Cup 2023 is that it is easily accessible from many countries, especially in Europe. You have several options to get there, depending on your budget, preference, and departure point.
- By plane: France has many international airports that connect with major cities around the world. You can find flights to Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, Toulouse, Nice, and other destinations that host the matches. You can also use low-cost airlines that fly to smaller airports, such as Beauvais, Nantes, Montpellier, or Carcassonne. However, be aware that these airports might be far from the city center and require additional transportation costs.
- By train: If you are travelling from Europe, taking the train might be a convenient and eco-friendly option. You can use high-speed trains such as Eurostar, Thalys, TGV, or ICE that link France with the UK, Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, and other countries. You can also use regional trains or night trains for longer distances. Taking the train will allow you to enjoy the scenery and avoid traffic jams or airport hassles.
- By car: If you prefer to drive your own car or rent one, you can also travel to France by road. France has a well-developed network of highways (autoroutes) that connect with other European countries. However, be prepared to pay tolls (péages) on most of them. You will also need a valid driving license, insurance, and registration documents. You will also have to follow the French traffic rules, such as driving on the right side of the road, respecting speed limits, and wearing seat belts.
How to book your tickets and accommodation
One of the most important things to consider when travelling to France for Rugby World Cup 2023 is how to book your tickets and accommodation. The Rugby World Cup is a very popular event that attracts millions of fans from around the world. Therefore, you need to plan ahead and book early to secure your place and avoid disappointment.
- Tickets: The official way to buy tickets for Rugby World Cup 2023 is through the official website: https://tickets.rugbyworldcup.com/. You can choose between individual tickets or packages that include several matches. You can also buy ticket-inclusive official travel packages through Official Travel Agents (OTA) that offer transportation, accommodation, and tourism experiences. You can find the list of OTA by territory on https://travel2023.rugbyworldcup.com/en/. Beware of unofficial or fraudulent websites that might sell fake or overpriced tickets.
- Accommodation: France has a wide range of accommodation options to suit your budget and preference. You can choose between hotels, hostels, bed and breakfasts, apartments, campsites, or even couchsurfing. However, keep in mind that accommodation prices might increase during the Rugby World Cup period due to high demand. Therefore, it is advisable to book your accommodation as soon as possible after buying your tickets. You can use online platforms such as Booking.com, Airbnb.com, or Hostelworld.com to compare prices and availability.
How to get around
Another thing to consider when travelling to France for Rugby World Cup 2023 is how to get around the country and the cities. France is a large country that covers different regions and landscapes. Therefore, you need to plan your transportation according to your itinerary and schedule.
- Between cities: If you want to travel between different cities that host the matches or visit other regions of France, you have several options. You can use trains (see above), buses (such as Ouibus or Flixbus), carpooling (such as Blablacar), or car rental (such as Europcar or Sixt). You can also use domestic flights for longer distances (such as Air France or Easyjet).
- Within cities: If you want to travel within the cities that host the matches or visit their attractions, you have several options. You can use public transportation (such as metro, bus, tram, or train) that are usually efficient and affordable. You can also use taxis or ride-hailing apps (such as Uber or Kapten) that are convenient and available. You can also rent a bike or a scooter (such as Vélib’ or Lime) that are fun and eco-friendly. You can also walk around the city and discover its charm and beauty.
What to see and do
One of the best things about travelling to France for Rugby World Cup 2023 is that you can combine your passion for rugby with your curiosity for culture, history, and nature. France has a lot to offer to its visitors, from iconic monuments and museums to stunning landscapes and gastronomy. Here are some suggestions on what to see and do in France during Rugby World Cup 2023.
- Paris: The capital city of France is also the main venue for Rugby World Cup 2023, hosting 10 matches including the opening match and the final. Paris is a must-see destination for any traveller, as it has countless attractions and activities to enjoy. You can visit the famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, the Notre-Dame Cathedral, or the Arc de Triomphe. You can also explore the different neighborhoods such as Montmartre, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, or Le Marais. You can also enjoy the nightlife, the shopping, the cuisine, and the culture of Paris.
- Lyon: The second-largest city in France is also a major venue for Rugby World Cup 2023, hosting six matches including two quarter-finals. Lyon is a vibrant and dynamic city that has a rich heritage and a modern flair. You can visit the historical sites such as the Roman amphitheatre, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, or the Old Town. You can also discover the contemporary attractions such as the Museum of Confluences, the Parc de la Tête d’Or, or the Confluence district. You can also enjoy the gastronomy, the festivals, and the nightlife of Lyon.
- Marseille: The oldest city in France is also a key venue for Rugby World Cup 2023, hosting six matches including one quarter-final and one semi-final. Marseille is a Mediterranean city that has a unique character and charm. You can visit the emblematic sites such as the Old Port, the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, or the MuCEM museum. You can also explore the natural wonders such as the Calanques National Park, the Frioul Islands, or the Côte Bleue. You can also enjoy the seafood, the music, and the diversity of Marseille.
- Bordeaux: The wine capital of France is also an important venue for Rugby World Cup 2023, hosting five matches including one quarter-final and one semi-final. Bordeaux is a elegant and lively city that has a lot of appeal and charm. You can visit the cultural and architectural sites such as the Grand Théâtre, the Place de la Bourse, or the Cathédrale Saint-André. You can also discover the wine heritage and taste some of the finest wines in the world. You can also enjoy the gastronomy, the shopping, and the nightlife of Bordeaux.
- Toulouse: The pink city of France is also a significant venue for Rugby World Cup 2023, hosting four matches including one quarter-final. Toulouse is a charming and lively city that has a lot of personality and charm. You can visit the historical and artistic sites such as the Capitole, the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, or the Musée des Augustins. You can also explore the aerospace and scientific attractions such as the Cité de l’Espace, the Airbus factory, or the Canal du Midi. You can also enjoy the cuisine, the festivals, and the rugby culture of Toulouse.
- Other cities: Besides these main cities, there are other cities that host Rugby World Cup 2023 matches that are worth visiting. You can visit Nice, which is a sunny and glamorous city on the French Riviera. You can visit Nantes, which is a creative and green city on the Loire river. You can visit Lille, which is a friendly and festive city near the Belgian border. You can visit Saint-Etienne, which is a industrial and cultural city near the Alps. You can visit Le Havre, which is a modern and maritime city on the Normandy coast.
What to eat and drink
One of the joys of travelling to France for Rugby World Cup 2023 is that you can taste some of the most delicious and diverse food and drink in the world. France has a rich and varied gastronomy that reflects its regions, traditions, and influences. Here are some suggestions on what to eat and drink in France during Rugby World Cup 2023.
- Cheese: France is famous for its cheese, which comes in different shapes, sizes, textures, and flavors. You can find cheese in almost every meal, from breakfast to dessert. You can also enjoy a cheese platter with some bread and wine as a snack or a starter. Some of the most popular cheeses in France are camembert, brie, roquefort, comté, or reblochon.
- Bread: France is also famous for its bread, which is an essential part of every meal. You can find different types of bread in France, such as baguette, croissant, brioche, or pain au chocolat. You can eat bread with butter, jam, cheese, or ham. You can also use bread to make sandwiches or toast.
- Wine: France is also famous for its wine, which is one of the most appreciated and exported drinks in the world. You can find different types of wine in France, such as red, white, rosé, or sparkling. You can drink wine with your meals or as an aperitif. Some of the most famous wine regions in France are Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne or Rhône Valley.
- Pastries: France is also famous for its pastries, which are a delight for any sweet tooth. You can find different types of pastries in France, such as croissant, éclair, macaron, crêpe, or tarte. You can eat pastries for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack. You can also try some regional specialties, such as kouign-amann from Brittany, canelé from Bordeaux, or calisson from Provence.
- Coffee: France is also famous for its coffee culture, which is an integral part of the daily life. You can find different types of coffee in France, such as espresso, café au lait, cappuccino, or café gourmand. You can drink coffee at any time of the day, but especially in the morning or after a meal. You can also enjoy coffee at a café or a brasserie, where you can sit and watch the world go by.
What to expect and enjoy
The last thing to consider when travelling to France for Rugby World Cup 2023 is what to expect and enjoy. The Rugby World Cup is a unique and unforgettable experience that will make you feel part of a global community of rugby lovers. Here are some things to expect and enjoy in France during Rugby World Cup 2023.
- Atmosphere: The Rugby World Cup 2023 will create a festive and friendly atmosphere in France and around the world. You can expect to meet and mingle with other fans from different countries and cultures. You can also expect to witness some thrilling and memorable matches that will keep you on the edge of your seat. You can also expect to celebrate and have fun with your fellow supporters before, during, and after the games.
- Culture: The Rugby World Cup 2023 will also give you the opportunity to discover and appreciate the French culture and way of life. You can expect to learn some French words and phrases that will help you communicate and interact with the locals. You can also expect to explore some of the most beautiful and iconic places in France that will enrich your knowledge and appreciation of the country. You can also expect to taste some of the most delicious and diverse food and drink in France that will delight your senses and palate.
- Impact: The Rugby World Cup 2023 will also have a positive impact on France and the world. You can expect to contribute to the social, economic, and environmental development of France by supporting its tourism, hospitality, and local industries. You can also expect to support the values and principles of rugby, such as respect, solidarity, and diversity by participating in its events, activities, and initiatives. You can also expect to be part of a legacy that will inspire future generations of rugby players and fans.
Travelling to France for Rugby World Cup 2023 is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that you don’t want to miss. By following these tips and advice, you can plan your trip better and enjoy it more. Whether you are a rugby fan or not, you will find something to love and remember in France during Rugby World Cup 2023. So don’t hesitate and book your tickets and accommodation today! And don’t forget to pack your passion for rugby!
