If you're planning a trip to France, it's worth considering the dates of the French public or bank holidays. France is a predominantly Catholic country and tends to take it's national public holidays more seriously than some European countries. For example, you will often find that shops are closed and that public transport offers a limited service. This is particularly true in many of the more rural areas.

Outside of the traditional public holidays, you will also often find that the availability of shops and services can be very limited on Sundays, again particularly in non-urban areas. Mondays are also different in many areas of France... many shops and restaurants are closed on a Monday or have restricted opening times.

French Public Bank Holidays

burlats castle france

Nice old town