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Introducing France

France has long been one of the world's most celebrated destinations, and with good reason. Whether you prioritize art and architecture, haute cuisine, or adventures in the great outdoors, France is a country that boasts exquisite options for any traveler.

When is the best time to visit? 
The ideal time to visit France depends on where you'll be spending your time. France's Mediterranean coast is warm for most of the year, while Northern France and the Atlantic coast have wetter, less predictable weather. If you're interested in wine, time your trip to coincide with the grape harvest in Autumn. No matter when you visit, keep in mind that most French people vacation in-country, meaning big crowds during France's national holidays. Learn more

Where should I go in France?
You'll likely arrive in Paris, a legendary metropolis with enough museums, cultural landmarks, bistros, and boulangeries to keep you busy for weeks. But France offers even more to travelers than its romantic capital city lets on. Visit the lavender fields and hillside villages of Provence, check out the glitzy galleries and beaches of the French Riviera, or sample some of the world's most celebrated wines in regions like charming Burgundy or the castle-laden Loire Valley. 

How many days do I need?
Whether you have two days or two months, France holds more than enough variety in its landscape and regional delights to fill any itinerary. If your only stop is Paris, you can get away with as few as three days, though you could easily spend much more time exploring. If you have a specific region in mind that you'd like to see in-depth, plan for at least a week. Or, spend multiple weeks road tripping through the mountains, vineyards, coastline, and cities of this remarkably versatile country—the sky is truly the limit. Learn more

Getting Around France
An extensive network links many French cities and towns, and travel by train is an efficient way to see the country. Self-driving is good for exploring regions like Provence, Normandy, and the Loire Valley in more depth. And to cover large distances quickly, domestic flights connect major cities with most journeys taking about an hour. Learn more

Looking for inspiration? See our top France itineraries

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days · 21 days

France Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Finish this French adventure with a night in Nice
Map of Paris, Provence & the French Riviera - 10 Days
Paris, Provence & the French Riviera - 10 Days

Enjoy an authentic taste of France with highlight tours, day trips, cooking classes, and more over 10 memorable days. First, get an insider's look at Paris with a local guide before absconding to Aix-en-Provence to stroll its cobbled streets and visit nearby national parks. From there, you're off to the sun-kissed French Riviera to "do lunch" in Saint-Tropez and follow your nose on a tour of Grasse, the perfume hub of France.

Drive along the Bay of Villefranche during your last day in Nice
Map of Paris & the South of France - 7 Days
Paris & the South of France - 7 Days

This weeklong itinerary splits its time between the French Riviera and the City of Light for a great introduction to France. Starting in Nice, you'll explore on your own before a local guide shows you around Monaco, Cannes, and Antibes (to name a few). Then, fly to Paris where you'll cruise along the Seine, skip the lines at Versailles, and summit the Eiffel Tower—at sunset!—to complete the adventure.

Famous medieval castle Sully sur Loire at sunset
Map of Paris, Normandy & the Loire Valley - 10 Days
Paris, Normandy & the Loire Valley - 10 Days

This epic 10-day French sojourn kicks off in Paris with three days of culture and cuisine in the "City of Lights." Then, hit the road to the Normandy coast to visit the Mont-Saint-Michel tidal island, medieval Bayeux, and Omaha Beach. Next is the Loire Valley, where you'll explore the charming towns and gorgeous castles of this famous wine region before returning to Paris for one more Belle Époque adventure.

Old port at dusk in Marseille
Map of Provence & the French Riviera: "Like a Local" - 7 Days
Provence & the French Riviera: "Like a Local" - 7 Days

Love getting off the beaten track and traveling like a local? This tour was tailor-made for you. Experience the best of the French Riviera, including the hilltop villages of Luberon, multicultural Marseille, charming Aix-en-Provence, and vibrant Cannes.

One of the famous perched villages in Dordogne
Map of Western France Road Trip - 14 Days
Western France Road Trip - 14 Days

This spectacular road-trip adventure through Western France provides a subtle mix of history, culture, cuisine, wine, and outdoor activity—and plenty of picturesque landscapes between stops. Over the course of two weeks, you'll spend quality time in Paris, Normandy, Bordeaux, and the Dordogne region with a combination of tours led by English-speaking local guides and free time to explore on your own.

Sunset on the trail
Map of Tour du Mont-Blanc Self Guided Trek - 7 days
Tour du Mont-Blanc Self Guided Trek - 7 days

Circle the highest summit in Western Europe in just six days of trekking with this weeklong summer itinerary. Start in the Chamonix Valley a nd hike through France, Italy, and Switzerland with iconic Alpine vistas throughout. Hike over high mountain passes and quiet meadows, see the Alps reflected in mirror-like Swiss lakes, visit the classic resort towns of Courmayeur and Chamonix, and spend each night sleeping comfortably in charming mountain huts and lodges.

Make the Most of Your Time in France

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
The Eiffel Tower in France's capital city
How Many Days to Spend in France

For a solid France itinerary that covers two regions plus Paris, a 10-day trip is a great choice. With less time, a well-rounded trip is still within reach, especially if you're...

One of many inlets in Calanques National Park
Map of 1 Week in France - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in France - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

One week in France is enough time to explore Paris, plus the highlights of one other region. Wine aficionados can spend a few days in Bordeaux and the Loire Valley, history...

France's tallest peak: Mont Blanc
Map of 10 Days in France - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in France - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in France, you can journey through the country's iconic cities, dazzling coastlines, and serene countrysides on a highlights tour or spend time in Normandy and the...

Vineyards in the Beaujolais wine region, north of Lyon
Map of 2 Weeks in France - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in France - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

You can cover some serious ground with two weeks in France, spending multiple days in up to three different regions (plus time in Paris). For example, pair the South of France...

France Travel Essentials

All you need to know to get started planning the perfect trip
The old port of Honfleur in Normandy, France
Best Time of Year to Visit Normandy

Normandy offers beautiful beaches and mild temperatures, a lovely combination. In spring, especially later in the season, expect beautiful flowers, sunny days, and manageable...

Château de Villandry on a cloudy spring day
Best Time of Year to Visit France

France offers year-round appeal, whether you're craving sun and sea, powdery snow, or a peaceful, crowd-free escape. The winter months (December to February) are ideal for a ski...

The historic Palais des Papes (Pope's Palace) in Avignon
Best Time of Year to Visit Provence

The shoulder season months of May and September are the best times to visit Provence if you like warm weather, clear skies, and beaches without the throngs of tourists. But for...

France Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip
A couple look out at one of the Loire Valley's beautiful chateauxs
Planning Your Perfect Honeymoon in France

Ask soon-to-be honeymooners around the world to reveal their dream destinations for getting away together, and the chances are many would be in France. The settings for...

France Hotel Advice

Unique places to stay, curated by kimkim specialists
Photo courtesy of Hotel Le Clos d'Amboise
Amboise
Hotel Le Clos d'Amboise
4.9
(10)
· Upscale
Hotel Le Clos d'Amboise blends history, style, and comfort. This 17th-century house was transformed into a hotel in 2003 and upgraded in 2011, all while preserving its authentic character. Nestled in the Royal City of Amboise, the hotel is just minutes away from Francois I's château and Leonardo...
Photo courtesy of Hotel Le Negresco
Nice
Hotel Le Negresco
5.0
(7)
· Luxury
Hotel Le Negresco is a masterpiece of authenticity and character. This historic 5-star property is steps away from the Promenade des Anglais and a brief walk from Place Massena. Guests often rave about the hotel's unique blend of vintage and modern elements, particularly the charming vintage...
Paris
Hôtel Jardin de Cluny
4.8
(10)
· Upscale
This convenient Latin Quarter hideaway sits on a pedestrian street in the 5th arrondissement, just steps from the Musée du Cluny and a 10-minute stroll from Left Bank landmarks like the Pantheon and the Jardin du Luxembourg. A recent renovation has transformed the interior into a...

Best Experiences in France

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
Paris
Nighttime Seine River Cruise with Dining Experience
4.9
(21)
2.5 hours
·
Small group
On an evening river cruise on the Seine, enjoy breathtaking views of Paris's famed landmarks from the comfort of your window seat, complemented by a fine dining experience with a selection of wines and a welcome glass of champagne. The dinner is set to the tune of live music, adding to the...
(Photo courtesy of Bateaux Parisiens)
Paris
Seine River Gourmet Dinner Cruise with Live Music
4.7
(22)
2.5 hours
·
Small group
Step aboard a restaurant boat on the Seine River and indulge in a gourmet dinner accompanied by live music as you take in Paris's illuminated landmarks from your window seat. As you cruise, enjoy French cuisine prepared fresh daily by an expert chef, with dishes that emphasize simplicity and...
Nice
Journey into the Heart of the French Riviera: Eze, Monaco & Monte Carlo
5.0
(6)
8 hours
·
Small group
Explore Monaco on a guided tour that introduces you to the city's charm and the excitement of the Grand Prix. You'll learn about key sites, soak up picturesque views, and even witness the city's preparation for the iconic race. Embark on a visit to a local perfume factory, where you'll gain...

Our Latest France Content

The Paris Marathon loops past historic landmarks and ends on the Champs-Élysées
Map of Race Abroad in France: Run the 2026 Paris Marathon - 10 Days
Race Abroad in France: Run the 2026 Paris Marathon - 10 Days

Turn your date with the 2026 Paris Marathon into a perfect French vacation with this 10-day itinerary that gives you time to gear up for the race with sightseeing in the French capital. After you've put in your personal best on the 26.2 miles of Parisian cobblestones, take a relaxed journey south, tasting your way around Aix-en-Provence and soaking up the beauty of the Luberon countryside. End in Nice, where you'll cruise the French Riviera by private boat and take a day trip up the coast to Monaco.

Check out the tidal island of Mont Saint-Michel, France's next most visited attraction outside of Paris
France FAQ

France is a dream destination for many, but if it's your first time visiting, you probably have plenty of questions. How many days should I spend? Is there a tipping culture? What should I pack? This guide answers the most common FAQs to help you navigate France with ease—whether you're exploring Paris, sipping wine in Bordeaux, or sunning on the French Riviera.

Conquer multiple routes in the French Alps on this weeklong cycling trip
Map of Cycle the French Alps: Annecy, Allemont & Aix-les-Bains - 7 Days
Cycle the French Alps: Annecy, Allemont & Aix-les-Bains - 7 Days

Smell the pine forests, hear the cowbells, and marvel at the snowcapped peaks as you cycle through the French Alps on this weeklong self-drive adventure. Touch down in Geneva and drive to Annecy to paraglide over the glacial lake and conquer two Alpine cycling routes. Explore the historic Old Town's canals and bridges before driving to Allemont for the legendary L'Alpe d'Huez climb and a ride around Lac du Verney. End your tour in Aix-les-Bains with a lunch cruise on Lac du Bourget and a thermal spa.

France Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 7 Days in France - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
7 Days in France - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 14 Days in France - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
14 Days in France - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Map 5 Days in France - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
5 Days in France - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for France
Travel specialist Jane Davey
active 29 mins ago

Jane Davey

Born and raised in the UK, I’ve always had a love affair with the great outdoors. It’s no wonder I ended up in travel! Growing up, family holidays meant exploring the UK with my parents and...

read more...
Travel specialist Mathilde D.
active 1 hour ago

Mathilde D.

Bonjour! I’m Mathilde in the heart of the Champagne region 🍾 Growing up surrounded by historic streets and bubbly traditions sparked my passion for sharing the beauty of French culture (don’t...

read more...
Travel specialist Valentine Julien
active 13 mins ago

Valentine Julien

Valentine is the girl from the French Alps! She grew up between the French & Swiss Alps, worked as a tailor-made trip planner in Sri Lanka & Maldives, and was an event organizer for extreme...

read more...
Travel specialist Sebastian Prino
active 38 mins ago

Sebastian Prino

Hi, My name is Sebastian, a travel agent specializing in France, with a particular focus on outdoor and gastronomic activities. I believe that traveling should be more than just visiting popular...

read more...

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Trip Reviews for France

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Wonderful tour of the south of France
France | Feb 3 - Feb 9, 2026

Kathleen
Kathleen B.
Canada | Reviewed on Feb 10, 2026
I really enjoyed all of the guides very much.
They were knowledgeable and friendly and made our tours very engaging and entertaining.
My favourite place and guide was Carcassonne (Natalie) as it felt like a lengthy conversation with great scenery 😊
Read more

I really enjoyed all of the guides very much.
They were knowledgeable and friendly and made our tours very engaging and entertaining.
My favourite place and guide was Carcassonne (Natalie) as it felt like a lengthy conversation with great scenery 😊

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Florence Nice
Nice

Centrally located and a pillow menu!

Authenticity & Character
Focus on eco friendly solutions
Location
Not far from the sea, old town, dining
Staff
Front desk worked hard to ensure our comfort Breakfast area was very crowded, despite being there in the quiet season. Staff worked hard to keep the area clean and stocked
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel de Cambis
Avignon

Beautiful room in the centre of everything!

Authenticity & Character
Classy and comfortable
Location
On the main drag, so easy to find dining and attractions
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Aragon
Carcassonne

Off season requires more direction and help than what was provided by the front desk

Authenticity & Character
Location
Very close to the fortress
Staff
Offers to help find open places to eat during the day and for dinner. We were left to wander around
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Full-day excursion to Monaco, Monte-Carlo & Eze
Full-day excursion to Monaco, Monte-Carlo & Eze
France

So many different experiences on this tour!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
As a local resident he provided us with historical information as well as personal anecdotes. Very informative!
Transport
Nice Evening Food Tour
Nice Evening Food Tour
France

Every stop allowed us to sample (and purchase if we wished)

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Leo was quiet but very friendly and knowledgeable
Transport
N/A foot tour
Châteauneuf du Pape wine tour
Châteauneuf du Pape wine tour
Avignon

The two wineries were so different! They both provided an interesting perspective on wine making in the region

Quality of Experience
Seeing the oldest winery was very interesting
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Emile’s family experience in the wine industry made this tour very informative
Transport
Safe comfortable travel
Guided tour of Carassonne
Guided tour of Carassonne
France

The site is incredible. I definitely recommend having a guide as there is so much to see and learn about

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Natalie was very informative and allowed us to ask questions nonstop
Transport
It was a foot tour (an N/A would have worked best here)
Local specialist: Sebastian Prino
Sebastian
Sebastian Prino
Local specialist in Marseille | Replied on Feb 14, 2026

Hi Kathleen, how are you?

Thank you very much for your kind feedback.
We are really glad to hear that you enjoyed the time spent with all the guides and that the visits felt engaging and easygoing.

We will, of course, pass on your special mention to Natalie in Carcassonne — she will be very happy to hear that the visit felt like a real conversation, carried by the place and its scenery.

Thank you again for travelling with us.

Best,
Sebastian

Barcelona to Nice
France | Feb 3 - Feb 9, 2026

G
Glenn B.
Flagami, FL | Reviewed on Feb 10, 2026
All of our excursions and guides were amazing. The hotels were well situated for the sites we were seeing. Having all the train tickets booked in advance was fantastic and their timings were great. The only negative on our trip was the night hotel staff at the Aragon hotel in Carcassonne. During our tour of the walled city we noticed that only a couple of stores / cafes were actually open even though the internet listed large numbers of restaurants as open. For this reason we asked the lady... Read more

All of our excursions and guides were amazing. The hotels were well situated for the sites we were seeing. Having all the train tickets booked in advance was fantastic and their timings were great. The only negative on our trip was the night hotel staff at the Aragon hotel in Carcassonne. During our tour of the walled city we noticed that only a couple of stores / cafes were actually open even though the internet listed large numbers of restaurants as open. For this reason we asked the lady at the hotel reception desk if she could assist in calling some nearby restaurants to see if any were actually open for dinner. The lady declined to assist and said you’ll just need to go by yourself to see if they are open. Without phone service or transportation we couldn’t easily get to these places to see if they were actually open. This level of customer service sucks. Hotels being booked though Kim Kim should be prepared to assist travelers staying with them and have a list of open restaurants or make calls to verify if a place is actually open for dinner.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Florence Nice
Nice
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel de Cambis
Avignon
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Aragon
Carcassonne

Hotel was clean but night desk person was not helpful. She would not assist us in calling some restaurants to see if they were actually open given it was the off season. Instead she said you’ll need to go to them to see if they are open. The internet showed all restaurants as open but in reality very few actually were. Without phone service or transportation it was not possible to just go by places to see if they were open. In all of my travels this is the only hotel that I’ve been to where they wouldn’t assist us in finding a place to eat. Poor customer service!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Full-day excursion to Monaco, Monte-Carlo & Eze
Full-day excursion to Monaco, Monte-Carlo & Eze
France
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Nice Evening Food Tour
Nice Evening Food Tour
France
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Foot tour no transport needed
Châteauneuf du Pape wine tour
Châteauneuf du Pape wine tour
Avignon
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Guided tour of Carassonne
Guided tour of Carassonne
France
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Was a walking tour so no transport needed
Local specialist: Sebastian Prino
Sebastian
Sebastian Prino
Local specialist in Marseille | Replied on Feb 10, 2026
Hi Glenn, Thank you very much for taking the time to share such detailed feedback.
We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed the excursions, the guides, the hotel locations, and the train logistics. We know how important smooth connections and well-timed travel are, and we are glad this part of the trip worked well for you.
We are, however, very sorry to read about your experience with the night staff at the Aragon hotel in Carcassonne. We fully understand how frustrating this situation... Read more

Hi Glenn,

Thank you very much for taking the time to share such detailed feedback.
We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed the excursions, the guides, the hotel locations, and the train logistics. We know how important smooth connections and well-timed travel are, and we are glad this part of the trip worked well for you.

We are, however, very sorry to read about your experience with the night staff at the Aragon hotel in Carcassonne. We fully understand how frustrating this situation must have been, especially after discovering that many restaurants listed online were in fact closed. Your request for assistance was reasonable, and the response you received clearly did not meet the level of care we expect from our accommodation partners.

We take this feedback seriously and will address it directly with the hotel, including the need for better on-site support in the evenings and clearer, up-to-date local dining information. In historic towns like Carcassonne, opening days and hours can vary significantly depending on the season, and local guidance is often essential.

Thank you again for your trust and for highlighting this point so we can improve future experiences for our travellers.

Cheers,
Sebastian

Wonderful visit to Normandy and Nice
France | Jan 26 - Feb 3, 2026

K
Kelly S.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Feb 06, 2026
Manon in the Normandy region and Nadia in Nice were exceptional guides. The restaurant recommendations were great also. Read more

Manon in the Normandy region and Nadia in Nice were exceptional guides. The restaurant recommendations were great also.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Le Negresco
Nice

Spectacular

Authenticity & Character
The art and the bellmen’s uniforms, the elevator, every detail is beautiful.
Location
Right on the Promenade d’Anglais and near old Nice
Staff
Everyone was friendly and helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hilton Garden Inn Paris Orly Airport
Rungis
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The pillows are awful and very small
Hotel Le Lion d'Or et restaurant la Table du Lion
Bayeux

Quaint hotel in medieval center of town. Great food and lovely fireplace gathering place.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Right in the center of the village
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Day excursion to Monaco, Monte-Carlo and Eze
Day excursion to Monaco, Monte-Carlo and Eze
France

Playing blackjack at the casino in Monte Carlo and lunch on the beach at the Note Bleu (as arranged by our guide) were highlights.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Morning food and wine tour
Morning food and wine tour
France

Nadia was delightful. We learned a lot and enjoyed ourselves immensely.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Day Trip to Mont-Saint-Michel
Day Trip to Mont-Saint-Michel
France

Incredible! And since we went off season there were no crowds.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tour of D-Day Sites
Tour of D-Day Sites
France

Manon was exceptional. We learned so much on this somber day.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Day excursion to Honfleur and Etretat
Day excursion to Honfleur and Etretat
Bayeux

Manon is a knowledgeable, friendly and overall excellent tour guide. We learned so much.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Audrey Benezech
Audrey
Audrey Benezech
Local specialist in Montpellier | Replied on Feb 06, 2026

Bonjour Kelly,
Thank you for your feedback. It was a pleasure to organise this trip for you.
I wish you all the best,
Audrey

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