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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
(11)
· 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...
Paris
Hôtel Jardin de Cluny
4.8
(12)
· 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...
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...

Best Experiences in France

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
Paris
Nighttime Seine River Cruise with Dining Experience
4.9
(24)
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
4.8
(24)
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...
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...

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 day 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 day 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 2 days 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 Liz Chreist
active 1 min ago

Liz Chreist

My favorite definition is- Travel (travel-ǝl)-noun- The only thing you buy that makes you richer. I have had the privilege of traveling to many countries around the world. Traveling close to...

read more...

Related Destinations

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Trip Reviews for France

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Gersende was great in listening to us and hel...
France | Aug 1 - Aug 12, 2026

susan
susan r.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Aug 13, 2026
Gersende was great in listening to us and helping book an itinerary which was just right for our family. It had activities on most days but allowed time for us to schedule impromptu activities. Thank you for making our holiday memorable! Tony was very reliable in coordinating all our pickups and drop offs. It gave us confidence in knowing what was happening when. Thank you for making our holiday memorable. Read more

Gersende was great in listening to us and helping book an itinerary which was just right for our family. It had activities on most days but allowed time for us to schedule impromptu activities. Thank you for making our holiday memorable!

Tony was very reliable in coordinating all our pickups and drop offs. It gave us confidence in knowing what was happening when.

Thank you for making our holiday memorable.

Hotel Reviews
Hôtel Bastille Spéria
Paris
Le Soleia - La Malmaison Nice Boutique Hotel
Nice
Hotel de Cambis
Avignon
Lenox Montparnasse
Paris
Activity Reviews
Nighttime Seine River Cruise with Dining Experience
Nighttime Seine River Cruise with Dining Experience
Paris

Special evening experience!

Paris Macaron Baking Class
Paris Macaron Baking Class
Paris

Chef Marthe was a wonderful teacher. We leaned many insightful tips and left with her book to try more recipes at home!

Sea Adventure in Villefranche-sur-Mer: Boat Ride, Swim & Snorkel
Sea Adventure in Villefranche-sur-Mer: Boat Ride, Swim & Snorkel
Nice

Antoine was fun and knowledgeable!

Morning Food and Wine Tour!
Morning Food and Wine Tour!
Nice

Ally was super! She knew so much about food, wine and the local history. We also really enjoyed her and appreciate being taken to local places we would never have found on our own.

Half-Day Private E-bike Tour of the Alpilles
Half-Day Private E-bike Tour of the Alpilles
France

Our guide,Julien, was great! He showed us all around the Alpilles in the area of Provence. He was very knowledgeable.

Château de Versailles (tickets + audioguide only)
Château de Versailles (tickets + audioguide only)
France
Local specialist: Gersende Rambaud
Gersende
Gersende Rambaud
Local specialist in Beaujolais, France | Replied on Aug 13, 2026

Thank you so much Susan for your lovely review! It was such a pleasure helping you plan your family adventure, and I’m especially happy we found the right balance between activities and free time to enjoy those spontaneous moments along the way.

I’ll also be sure to pass your kind words on to Tony 🙂

Thank you again for trusting me with your holiday. It’s always a real pleasure, and I’m delighted we could help make this one so memorable. Until the next adventure!

Did 8 day London to Paris trip with family of...
France | Aug 1 - Aug 9, 2026

M
Martinez F.
Kansas City, MO | Reviewed on Aug 10, 2026
Did 8 day London to Paris trip with family of 4. Agency had arranged pick up from airport to hotel, which was nice that I did not have to worry about taxis scams. Hotels chosen were the Cumberland in London and Paris art hotel in Paris. Both were in the busy parts of town, which was what we asked for. Our activities were tailored to what we wanted. We did Tea bus tour, London eye, Tower London, Webmeister Abby and Madame Tussauds wax museum. It was nice to not to worry about getting... Read more

Did 8 day London to Paris trip with family of 4. Agency had arranged pick up from airport to hotel, which was nice that I did not have to worry about taxis scams. Hotels chosen were the Cumberland in London and Paris art hotel in Paris. Both were in the busy parts of town, which was what we asked for. Our activities were tailored to what we wanted. We did Tea bus tour, London eye, Tower London, Webmeister Abby and Madame Tussauds wax museum. It was nice to not to worry about getting ticket, making sure they are not sold out, how to buy, etc, as this was all taken care of for us.
Eurostar train to Paris was great and highly recommend, easier than plane.
In Paris we did Disneyland, Eiffel Tower, Cruise on Seine river, Louvre, and Notre dame. Had Sebastian as a tour guide for family friendly guided tour of Louvre was great, highly recommended if bringing young children. Again, didn't stress over tickets or times as Caroline, our travel agent, took care of this for us.

Hotel Reviews
Paris Art Hotel Quartier Latin
Paris

This is smaller hotel, more private and intimate. In a wonderful location in Latin Quarter, easy to find food and shopping. Staff was wonderful and friendly, but also helpful with anything we needed. Had a hair drier that failed and immediately replaced. Room cleaned in timely fashion. Did not have rooms that connected and had only 1 bed rooms but they accommodated us well.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Cumberland
London

Great location in the City, amazing breakfast which was included, and staff very friendly. Food choices were wonderful in the hotel, and atmosphere was amazing.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Peppa Pig Afternoon Tea London Sightseeing Bus Tour 🐷
Peppa Pig Afternoon Tea London Sightseeing Bus Tour 🐷
London

Fun bus tour with Peppa pig video at table with tea, snacks. Got to see many places in London.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Skip-the-Line Eiffel Tower Summit Tickets
Skip-the-Line Eiffel Tower Summit Tickets
Paris

Tickets that get you to all the levels of the Eiffel Tower. Waiting was very minimal with these tickets.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Photo Shoot in Paris
Private Photo Shoot in Paris
Paris

1 hour photo session but went by really quick. Photos turned out great,.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Pure Chocolate tour!
Pure Chocolate tour!
Paris

Walking tour of Paris with chocolate tasting stops. Must do for chocolate lovers.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Westminster Abbey: entrance tickets
Westminster Abbey: entrance tickets
London

Fascinating place with so much history. Has free audio tour. Pack and tickets were sold out the day we went, so get them early.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The London Eye
The London Eye
London

Must do in London activity. Very straight forward. Beautiful views.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Louvre Museum Treasure Hunt
Louvre Museum Treasure Hunt
Paris

One of my favorite Family actives. Our Tour Guide Sebastian was wonderful, can tell he is very experienced. Kids were engaged the whole time. Highly recommend if wanting to do the Lourve with kids. Otherwise it is a mess of a place to go through without help.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Family cruise on the Seine
Family cruise on the Seine
Paris

The main river cruise that is next to Eiffel Tower. Ride when you want, runs every hour to half hour. It is 1 hour long but goes quick, nice view of city from the cruise.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Entrance Tickets: Disneyland Paris (1 day/2 parks)
Entrance Tickets: Disneyland Paris (1 day/2 parks)
France

Have been to all the Disneyland parks in America, so wanted to try this out. It is Magic Kingdom parks but Paris style. So much fun as always with Disney. Food was amazing, having French food. Rides are similar but unique in their own ways. Lines are similar to any Disney park. Stayed for fireworks show at night and had a blast

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tower of London (skip-the-line tickets)
Tower of London (skip-the-line tickets)
London

Tower of London and the Royal Family Jewels. So much history, it was fascinating to see it all. Lines were not a problem.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Caroline Kennedy

My dream family trip!
France | Jul 3 - Jul 10, 2026

A
Alison D.
Washington D.C., DC, USA | Reviewed on Aug 01, 2026
We had a wonderful weeklong trip to Annecy and Chamonix thanks to Amandine. After spending two weeks in Paris I wanted to go to a beautiful place away from the city and the crowds where my family (myself, husband, and two kids ages 12 and 10) could go hiking and do other outdoor activites, but I was overwhelmed thinking about planning this trip myself. After staying in airbnbs and doing all the research myself for many years I took a leap of faith and put my trust in Amandine and she did not... Read more

We had a wonderful weeklong trip to Annecy and Chamonix thanks to Amandine. After spending two weeks in Paris I wanted to go to a beautiful place away from the city and the crowds where my family (myself, husband, and two kids ages 12 and 10) could go hiking and do other outdoor activites, but I was overwhelmed thinking about planning this trip myself. After staying in airbnbs and doing all the research myself for many years I took a leap of faith and put my trust in Amandine and she did not disappoint. She was friendly, professional, responsive, and efficient with making revisions. She selected ideal destinations, arranged TGV tickets (including a surprise upgrade to first-class), found mid-range hotels with clean, comfortable rooms that had beds for each kid and nice breakfasts, arranged transparent kayak rentals, bike rentals, and gondola tickets, scheduled a hiking guide (Quentin was amazing) and two drivers, and recommended restaurants. I felt a genuine connection with her and the extra money was well-spent. I wouldn't hesitate to ask her for help planning another trip to France.

Local specialist: Amandine Baillarguès
Amandine
Amandine Baillarguès
Local specialist in Marseille | Replied on Aug 05, 2026
Dear Alison, Thank you so much for your incredibly kind words. Reading your review truly means a lot to me. It was such a pleasure helping you plan this part of your family's journey after your time in Paris. I loved the idea of creating a week that combined outdoor adventures and quality family time in Annecy and Chamonix. I'm so happy to hear that it turned out to be everything you were hoping for. And I smiled when I read your mention of the surprise first-class upgrade. I’m glad you... Read more

Dear Alison,

Thank you so much for your incredibly kind words. Reading your review truly means a lot to me.

It was such a pleasure helping you plan this part of your family's journey after your time in Paris. I loved the idea of creating a week that combined outdoor adventures and quality family time in Annecy and Chamonix. I'm so happy to hear that it turned out to be everything you were hoping for.

And I smiled when I read your mention of the surprise first-class upgrade. I’m glad you enjoyed that little extra! And I'll be sure to pass your kind words on to Quentin; he'll be delighted to know he helped make your trip so memorable.

I hope your children will keep wonderful memories of biking around the lake, hiking in the Alps and all the special moments you shared together. It would be an absolute pleasure to help you discover another region of France one day.

Until then, I wish you and your family many more beautiful adventures together!

Warmly,

Amandine

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