Important impending tax deadlines, the wildfire rules for homeowners in France, unmissable rail trips, what to do if you find a bee, wasp, or hornet nest on your property — and perfect drinks for summer. Here are the latest must-reads for life in France.
Springtime in France is the tax time — specifically the annual French déclaration des revenus that everyone living in France must complete, and missing the deadline can lead to fines and extra charges. We’ve got all the key dates right here.
French tax deadlines in May and June 2026
Laws require many homeowners in the south of France to carry out compulsory works each year to help prevent the spread of wildfires, but as these fires become more common — last month, French firefighters had to deal with the first forest fire of the year — the laws have been expanded to cover properties in northern France, including Brittany.
French government expands obligatory wildfire prevention work for homeowners
They’re set for a major expansion with a target of carrying an extra eight million passengers a year, but what exactly are France’s Ouigo trains and how do they differ from the classic TGV?
Ouigo: Everything you need to know about France’s low-cost trains
Speaking of trains… They’re better for the planet, won’t be cancelled because of jet fuel shortages and you can take your own wine on board (100ml limits? What are they?) — so here are some suggestions for a French train holiday this summer.
12 beautiful routes for French train holidays this summer
The last thing you want to discover is that bees, wasps or hornets have made a nest in or around your French property — and this is often a problem for second-home owners whose properties are empty for long periods.
It is especially worrying for those who are allergic to stings. But, as always, the first and most important thing is not to panic. There are well-established systems in place to deal with an unwanted nest.
What to do if you find a bee, wasp or hornet nest on your French property
Summer in France means lots of things: trips to the beach, empty cities, work on the Paris Metro, but it also ushers in rosé and spritz season. Here are some of the best options to drink in France this summer.
Rosé, spritz and pressé: 5 things to drink in France this summer
