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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 & South of France - 7 Days
Paris & South of France - 7 Days

This weeklong itinerary splits its time between the French Riviera and the City of Lights 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 line 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...

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...

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...

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
(10)
· 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...
Photo courtesy of Boutique Hotel Cezanne
Aix-en-Provence
Boutique Hotel Cezanne
4.7
(11)
· Upscale
Boutique Hotel Cezanne has been a part of the city's history for over 100 years, giving it its authentic charm. Ideally situated near the city's ancient walls, you'll find yourself on the site of one of the first Roman cities in the Mediterranean basin. A 5-minute stroll will land you at the...

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...
Paris
Biking Day Trip Through Historic Versailles
5.0
(6)
8 hours
·
Small group
Embark on an immersive bike tour through the legendary village of Versailles, just a short train ride from Paris. Begin your journey with a ride through Versailles' royal forests, making your way to a local food market where you'll gather fresh French specialties for a picnic lunch. As the day...
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
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for France
Travel specialist Jane Davey
active 1 min 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 Amandine Dumas
active 6 mins ago

Amandine Dumas

Bonjour! I am Amandine and I am 35 years old. I am the mum of two little boys. I used to travel by myself and with my husband, but now we are traveling with family. For me, travel is the...

read more...
Travel specialist Mathilde Dubuisson
active 1 hour 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 20 hours 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...

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Trip Reviews for France

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

In few words - amazing! 🤩
France | Aug 6 - Aug 22, 2025

Ksenia
Ksenia B.
Italy | Reviewed on Aug 27, 2025
In few words - amazing. 🤩 got help to organize a customized Atlantic Coast Trip in August, involving several countries, like Spain and France. We spent 16 days and visited all the coast from the Spanish Basque Country through the French one till Brittany and then even couple of days in Nantes. All great advice and attention to every minimum detail, perfect hotels selection (Villa Soro to come back, as well amazing spots between Emerald and Pink Granite coasts, itinerary that was smooth and... Read more

In few words - amazing. 🤩 got help to organize a customized Atlantic Coast Trip in August, involving several countries, like Spain and France. We spent 16 days and visited all the coast from the Spanish Basque Country through the French one till Brittany and then even couple of days in Nantes. All great advice and attention to every minimum detail, perfect hotels selection (Villa Soro to come back, as well amazing spots between Emerald and Pink Granite coasts, itinerary that was smooth and not tiring (as we were moving by car), great suggestions for private and group tours and all through a comfortable chat with the assistants who were always present and ready to advise. Thank you Simon 🤗 and of course Sebastian, we had an amazing vacation and already looking forward to doing more French escapes next year.

Hotel Review
Villa Soro
Donostia - San Sebastián (Gipuzkoa)

Superb! Really great location near the beach which is very local, non touristic, beautiful rooms, great food and really attentive personnel!

Authenticity & Character
Authenticity & Character
Location
Allows you to stay central but outside of crowds, great local beach nearby.
Location
Allows you to stay central but outside of crowds, great local beach nearby.
Staff
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Simon Hardy
Simon
Simon Hardy
Local specialist in Marseille, France | Replied on Aug 28, 2025
Buongiorno Ksenia, Reading your review truly made my day 🤩 I’m so happy you enjoyed your Atlantic Coast journey — from the Basque Country to Brittany — and that the hotels, tours, and itinerary matched your expectations. This trip was also special for me: I loved designing it for you, from finding charming accommodations to sharing places meaningful to me — whether from childhood memories along the coast or tips from trusted colleagues and friends. That’s exactly what I love about being an... Read more

Buongiorno Ksenia,

Reading your review truly made my day 🤩 I’m so happy you enjoyed your Atlantic Coast journey — from the Basque Country to Brittany — and that the hotels, tours, and itinerary matched your expectations.

This trip was also special for me: I loved designing it for you, from finding charming accommodations to sharing places meaningful to me — whether from childhood memories along the coast or tips from trusted colleagues and friends. That’s exactly what I love about being an artisan of travel.

A special thanks as well to Sebastian for his support during your stay. I’m already looking forward to crafting your next French escape! 🇫🇷✨

Warm regards,
Simon

Family vacation in Paris
France | Aug 10 - Aug 16, 2025

N
Nicole G.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Aug 23, 2025
We had a great trip to Paris for adults and kids. The vintage car ride around Paris was great for the adults, the kids didn't find that as exciting. The Lourve and Eiffel tower were great and tickets were easy to use. Versailles tickets were great as well. We had to Uber there as the train was shut down that day so be sure to have a backup plan. My kids especially loved the Evolution museum and zoo. Overall, great trip and planning. Read more

We had a great trip to Paris for adults and kids. The vintage car ride around Paris was great for the adults, the kids didn't find that as exciting. The Lourve and Eiffel tower were great and tickets were easy to use. Versailles tickets were great as well. We had to Uber there as the train was shut down that day so be sure to have a backup plan. My kids especially loved the Evolution museum and zoo. Overall, great trip and planning.

Hotel Review
Hotel Jeanne D'Arc Le Marais
Paris

The hotel was great but hard to sleep at night with no A/C in the summer.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Hotel is located by many shops and restaurants
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
No A/C made it uncomfortable
Local specialist: Lucie Rousseau
Lucie
Lucie Rousseau
Local specialist in Montpellier | Replied on Aug 26, 2025

Thank you so much Nicole for sharing your review.
I am glad that you had a great trip with the children. And I'm so happy to read they enjoy the Evolution museum. It is such a fascinating place.
I'm available to assist you in case you'd like to visit again.
Best,
Lucie

A life time joy experience
France | Aug 4 - Aug 17, 2025

F
Fred Y.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Aug 19, 2025
We were self-guided TMB. We are grateful with private rooms along the trip. The booklet is helpful. The off line navigation works most of time. Overall we really, really enjoyed the trip. we definitely will do more trips in the future with Kimkim. Read more

We were self-guided TMB. We are grateful with private rooms along the trip. The booklet is helpful. The off line navigation works most of time. Overall we really, really enjoyed the trip. we definitely will do more trips in the future with Kimkim.

Activity Review
Walking day : Champex - Bovine/Fenêtre d’Arpette - Trient
Walking day : Champex - Bovine/Fenêtre d’Arpette - Trient
Champex

The hut we stayed, Redais d’Arpelle, located about 1.4 miles outside Champex-Lac town. It added additional uphill hike. It is too far away.

Quality of Experience
we are very fortunately to have best weather we could ask for.
Local specialist: Rashi Jakhete

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