Each July, sports fans from around the globe flock to France to get up-close-and-personal with the world's most well-known bicycle race.
Witnessing the exhilarating Tour de France in person has become a sought-after travel experience, with many people timing their summer vacation to coincide with the race.
There are a few things that you should know before you board that flight to France, though.
The Race Doesn't Always Start in France
It may be called the Tour De France, but in an effort to drum up more international interest, the Grand Départ (first leg) often takes place outside of France before working its way home. Hosting the Grand Départ is very prestigious, and just like the Super Bowl and Final Four in America, towns bid to be the host.
Recently, the Grand Départ has been held in neighboring countries like Belgium, Holland, Germany and even the United Kingdom.
But It Always Ends in Paris
No matter where the race kicks off, it ends in the City of Light. The race has been finishing in Paris ever since its founding in 1903, and since 1975, it comes to an end at the world-famous Champs-Élysées.
While the overall winner of the Tour de France may be known before this stage even begins, winning the final stage still holds prestige. It also offers spectators goosebump-inducing images of cyclists in front of the Arc de Triomphe and Louvre.
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The Tour de France Is Free to Watch
It won't cost you a dime to watch the riders come zooming by your temporary piece of streetside real estate, but you will need to do your research on where and when they will be on what date. The Tour De France's official website is your bible in this department.
Be aware that hotel rooms in the towns that host the stage stops will be booked up well in advance by the cycling teams, press and race officials, so make sure to expand that search radius on your favorite hotel booking site.
Expect a Carnival-Like Atmosphere
The occasion is treated like a festival in the towns and villages where the tour is passing, so expect plenty of revelries. Don't get too distracted though, because it's important to stake out a place next to the race route as early as you can.
Why? You want to be in the perfect spot to grab goodies tossed from the official Caravan and its numerous floats that precede the race. (And to secure the best views of the cyclists, of course.)
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Many Think Mountain Stages Are the Best to Watch
During flat terrain stages, the cyclists will typically be bunched together before zipping by the crowd in the blink of an eye. During stages set in the Alps or Pyrenees, however, there tends to be more separation between the cyclists, and this leads to a better viewing experience.
These mountainous routes are also very popular with spectators, so the atmosphere gets especially jovial.
The Yellow Jersey Isn't the Only One the Cyclists Are Gunning For
Most of us know that they yellow jersey is worn by the current leader of the race, but there are some other jerseys to be on the lookout for as well. The white jersey is worn by the best young rider; the green jersey is worn by the best sprinter; and the polka dot jersey is worn by the best mountain cyclist.
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