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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.

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.

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.

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 great 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 Aquabella Hotel & Spa
Aix-en-Provence
Aquabella Hotel & Spa
4.8
(11)
· Upscale
Aquabella Hotel & Spa is a property inspired by Provence's tranquility and Aix's historical charm. Ideally located in the town center, you'll only be a 5-minute walk away from Pavillon Vendôme, Place des Cardeurs, and the famous works of Paul Cézanne. Here, you'll also be close to several...
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
(20)
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
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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
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for France
Travel specialist Jane Davey
active 11 hours 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 Dubuisson
active 13 hours ago

Mathilde Dubuisson

Bonjour! My name is Mathilde, I am 27 years old and I grew up in Troyes, in the Champagne region 🍾 It made me develop an interest for sharing my beautiful culture whenever I have the chance (but...

read more...
Travel specialist Valentine Julien
active 1 day 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 Stephen Molloy
active 3 hours ago

Stephen Molloy

Urbanist by training, he spent most of his twenties traveling and living overseas. Bitten by the bug, he lived in Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, California, Australia, DRC, Kenya, Pakistan...and...

read more...

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Trip Reviews for France

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Memorable "First" to France
France | Sep 25 - Oct 4, 2025

Susan
Susan W.
Hanover, MA | Reviewed on Nov 10, 2025
Liz and the KimKim team did a fabulous job planning our first trip to France. Liz worked with me through several iterations and connected my phone to ensure she was providing the experience we were looking for. She helped develop a very diverse 10-day trip throughout France, ensuring the places we wanted to hit - Nice, Paris, Normandy - where included and then some! Liz was always so responsive - even after our return when I had a question! She even sent some goodies - stickers and a water... Read more

Liz and the KimKim team did a fabulous job planning our first trip to France. Liz worked with me through several iterations and connected my phone to ensure she was providing the experience we were looking for. She helped develop a very diverse 10-day trip throughout France, ensuring the places we wanted to hit - Nice, Paris, Normandy - where included and then some! Liz was always so responsive - even after our return when I had a question! She even sent some goodies - stickers and a water bottle, after I booked as the trip was a gift. She even sent a hand written thank you card upon our return, such a nice touch especially when things feel so automated or less personalized.
The trip was wonderful. We especially enjoyed Champagne country, Giverny and seeing Monet's breathtaking gardens, paying our respect and learning more about history on the Normandy trip/tour, and really enjoyed the dinner cruise on the Seine. Southern France was great and so different than the north and Paris. We especially enjoyed the private tour guide we had with Lucy to see Antibes, Cannes and more. We're glad one of our day excursions also included Monaco - although that day felt more rushed and more checking in quickly to Ez, Monaco, etc - it was very brief in each area - 1 hour is all. The hotel in Nice as nice as well as Paris; however in hindsight, given where our meeting locations were in Paris for the various excursions, we wish we had a hotel that was closer to the meeting locations - especially when several days called for 6:30/6:45 am meet ups. With our hotel not being near the metro and such early times, we ended up using cabs and probably added another $250 to our trip in all the cab rides - including from the Paris hotel to the airport , which wasn't included in our other transportation. The cost for the Versailles and Giverny excursion was very expensive and wouldn't do it again, but glad we got to see the area. Our favorite excursions was the Champagne country, Normandy, private tour guide in Nice, Antibes and Cannes and the Seine dinner cruise. We were disappointed in the Notre Dame tour - the tour guide was lovely and we learned a lot, but for the money and time, all we did was walk around the exterior....it noted a tour and we were so happy given that Notre Dame had just reopened , then to find out that if we wanted to go inside we'd have to get in line which was wrapping around and a few miles long.
We enjoyed France and found everyone very kind and welcoming. Thank you for helping to create such a memorable experience!

Activity Reviews
Self-Guided Beach Day
Self-Guided Beach Day
Nice

we needed a "free day" :)

Quality of Experience
Full Day Exploration of Antibes, St-Paul-de-Vence and Cannes
Full Day Exploration of Antibes, St-Paul-de-Vence and Cannes
Nice
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Lucy was great!!!
Transport
loved having a private excursion - able to customize and really learn more about the area
Grand Riviera Journey: Eze, Monaco, Antibes & Cannes Excursion
Grand Riviera Journey: Eze, Monaco, Antibes & Cannes Excursion
Nice
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private French Riviera Sunset Electric Cruise (with private transfer)
Nice
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full-Day Tour from Paris: D-Day Beaches Exploration
Full-Day Tour from Paris: D-Day Beaches Exploration
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Giverny & Palace of Versailles: Art, Royalty & Gardens
Giverny & Palace of Versailles: Art, Royalty & Gardens
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Driver was more of a driver and didn't go into too much until we got to Versailles
Transport
Seine River Gourmet Dinner Cruise with Live Music
Seine River Gourmet Dinner Cruise with Live Music
Paris
Quality of Experience
Transport
Really a neat experience!
Private Notre-Dame & Sainte-Chapelle Visit
Private Notre-Dame & Sainte-Chapelle Visit
Paris

Expected a bit more - travel guide was wonderful and enjoyed Sainte Chapelle, but Notre Dame was underwhelming and disapointing to not see anything but the outside (not a lot of value as we could have just walked there and saw it on our own and saved hundreds of dollars, frankly).

Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
None and had to navigate on our own, not horrible
Louvre Murders & Mysteries Experience
Louvre Murders & Mysteries Experience
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Jet lagged and new to Paris, would have been preferred to have a cab or transport lined up for ease and to reduce some stress - the hotel staff was helpful and helped us secure a cab
Champagne Region Day Trip with Tastings
Champagne Region Day Trip with Tastings
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Liz Chreist
Liz
Liz Chreist
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Nov 10, 2025
Susan-
Thank you so much for your incredibly detailed and thoughtful review — it was a true pleasure to help craft your first journey through France! I’m thrilled to hear that you enjoyed such a diverse and enriching itinerary, from the elegance of Champagne country to the history of Normandy and the charm of southern France.
It was a joy collaborating with you through each iteration of the trip, and I’m glad the personal touches — from the goodies to the handwritten card — helped make the... Read more

Susan-
Thank you so much for your incredibly detailed and thoughtful review — it was a true pleasure to help craft your first journey through France! I’m thrilled to hear that you enjoyed such a diverse and enriching itinerary, from the elegance of Champagne country to the history of Normandy and the charm of southern France.

It was a joy collaborating with you through each iteration of the trip, and I’m glad the personal touches — from the goodies to the handwritten card — helped make the experience feel special. Your feedback about the excursions and logistics is invaluable. I truly appreciate your insights on the timing in Monaco and the hotel location in Paris; these are exactly the kinds of details that help us refine future trips for you and others.

I’m especially happy to hear that your favorite moments included the private tour with Lucy, the Seine dinner cruise, and the moving experience in Normandy. Your reflections on Giverny and Monet’s gardens are beautiful — it’s such a magical place, and I’m glad it resonated with you.

Thank you again for trusting me and the KimKim team with your travel dreams. It means the world to us to know we helped create lasting memories. I’d love to help you plan your next adventure whenever you’re ready — France still has so much more to offer, and beyond that, the world is waiting!

Warmest regards,
Liz Travel Specialist, and the rest of the KimKim team

Justine put together a perfect trip. It was w...
France | Oct 31 - Nov 9, 2025

R
Richard S.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Nov 10, 2025

Justine put together a perfect trip. It was well organized and very detailed. No hiccups in the planning
Joel was extremely helpful whenever there was any type of emergency
Thanks

Local specialist: Justine Edelin

Sebastian had only a short time to create an ...
France | Oct 28 - Nov 7, 2025

Stephen
Stephen B.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Nov 09, 2025
Sebastian had only a short time to create an itinerary for our trip and he did an amazing job. Each hotel was unique and comfortable and in a good location. The guides he booked were friendly and knowledgeable and helped us know more about French culture and history. The wine tours gave us new appreciation for French wines and opened a new avenue for us to grow in our knowledge of their unique style.
We believe Sebastian did remarkable work and we look to working with him again on our next...
Read more

Sebastian had only a short time to create an itinerary for our trip and he did an amazing job. Each hotel was unique and comfortable and in a good location. The guides he booked were friendly and knowledgeable and helped us know more about French culture and history. The wine tours gave us new appreciation for French wines and opened a new avenue for us to grow in our knowledge of their unique style.
We believe Sebastian did remarkable work and we look to working with him again on our next journey to France.

Activity Reviews
Cruise on a tradition boat and wine tasting in a vineyard (full-day)
Cruise on a tradition boat and wine tasting in a vineyard (full-day)
France

Our guide had years of experience in the area and she did a wonderful job of talking about the unique nature of the Loire Valley. Having lunch and a wine tasting on a river boat was so relaxing and informative. This is an experience not to be missed!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
A Taste of Dordogne from Bordeaux - private
A Taste of Dordogne from Bordeaux - private
France

Rodolfo was a special guide. Warm and welcoming and funny. He made the day special. This was the best guided tour of our trip.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Odyssey Wine Tour
Private Odyssey Wine Tour
Amboise

We enjoyed the opportunity to see the village of St. Emillion and to explore the Medoc region.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Friendly, filled with information and knowledge of the region
Transport
Local specialist: Sebastian Prino
Sebastian
Sebastian Prino
Local specialist in Marseille | Replied on Nov 10, 2025
Hi Stephen, how are you? Thank you so much for your wonderful message! I’m truly happy to hear that you enjoyed your trip and that everything—from the hotels to the guides and wine tours—helped make your experience in France memorable. It was a real pleasure designing this itinerary for you and your group, especially knowing how much you value authentic experiences and cultural immersion. Your kind words mean a lot and truly motivate me to keep creating meaningful, personalized... Read more

Hi Stephen, how are you?

Thank you so much for your wonderful message! I’m truly happy to hear that you enjoyed your trip and that everything—from the hotels to the guides and wine tours—helped make your experience in France memorable.

It was a real pleasure designing this itinerary for you and your group, especially knowing how much you value authentic experiences and cultural immersion. Your kind words mean a lot and truly motivate me to keep creating meaningful, personalized journeys.

I’m already looking forward to helping you plan your next adventure in France—there’s still so much more to discover!

Warm regards,
Sebastian

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