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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.

Old port at dusk in Marseille
Map of "Like a Local" Tour in Provence and the French Riviera: 7 Days
"Like a Local" Tour in Provence and the French Riviera: 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 buffs...

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
Paris
Hôtel Jardin de Cluny
5.0
(4)
· Comfort
Hotel Jardin de Cluny, a charming boutique hotel, is centrally located in Paris, within a 10-minute walk of iconic attractions like the Pantheon, Notre-Dame, and Luxembourg Gardens, plus just 2.5 miles (4 km) from the Louvre Museum. Enjoy this prime location in the bustling Saint-Germain...
Photo courtesy of Hôtel A la Villa des Artistes
Paris
Hôtel A la Villa des Artistes
4.7
(9)
· Mid-range
Steeped in history and artistic charm, Hôtel A La Villa des Artistes is a captivating ode to the rich artistic past of the Montparnasse neighborhood. This boutique Parisian gem is located in the elegant 6th arrondissement, home to an array of fine-dining restaurants, trendy art galleries, and...
Photo courtesy of Hôtel Baume
Paris
Hôtel Baume
4.7
(7)
· Comfort
Hotel Baume is an elegant retreat nestled in the lively Saint-Germain neighborhood of Paris—minutes away from the iconic Place de l'Odeon. Its intricate interior design, inspired by the 1930s, infuses the hotel with an air of sophistication and class. The convenient location places you within...

Best Experiences in France

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
Seine dinner cruise
Paris
Nighttime Seine River Cruise with Dining Experience
4.9
(12)
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

Enjoy great food and wine throughout France
Map of Olympic Summer Gourmet Journey Through France - 10 Days
Olympic Summer Gourmet Journey Through France - 10 Days

Sports and culture lovers rejoice—the Olympics are coming to Paris! This memorable 10-day journey combines the spectacle of the 2024 Olympic Games with the food culture that has made France a legend in the world of gastronomy. After immersing yourself in the sporting spirit of Paris, you're off to Lyon, Burgundy, and Marseille for foodie tours, truffle hunts, wine tastings, Champagne boat cruises, and more.

You can bet that landmarks like the Eiffel Tower will be featured in the 2024 Summer Games
Map of Olympic Adventure in Paris, Brittany & Bordeaux - 10 Days
Olympic Adventure in Paris, Brittany & Bordeaux - 10 Days

Olympics 2024, here you come! Paris will be hosting this 3,000-year-old tradition, and you'll experience the pomp and circumstance over 10 event-filled days—plus enjoy adventures in other highlight regions. After experiencing the best of Paris, catch a train to the Loire Valley for vineyard tours, explore the historic villages of Brittany, and visit Bordeaux for bike tours and to indulge in fine food and wine.

Paris and the Eiffel Tower—Olympics style
Map of Summer Olympics 2024: From Switzerland to Paris - 10 Days
Summer Olympics 2024: From Switzerland to Paris - 10 Days

Got Olympic fever? Let this 10-day journey across Europe get you in the mood for the 2024 Games. It begins in scenic Switzerland on Lake Geneva with a visit to the Olympic Museum, followed by a trip to France and more grand tours in Paris, where the Olympics will be held. In between, you'll enjoy food tours in Lyon, wine tastings in Burgundy, boating on Lake Annecy, and many other cultural and culinary adventures.

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 Simon Hardy
active 18 hours ago

Simon Hardy

Every time I have the chance to travel, I try to fully experience the destination that I am discovering. The colors, scents, tastes, sounds - all these sensations are the essence of the trip and...

read more...
Travel specialist Stephen Molloy
active 4 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...
Travel specialist Amandine Dumas
active 23 hours ago

Amandine Dumas

Bonjour ! I am Amandine and i am 33 years old. I am mum of two little boys. I used to travel by myself and with my husband, but now we are travelling with family. For me, travel is the school...

read more...
Travel specialist William Armstrong
active 9 hours ago

William Armstrong

I am your English-born, UK and French expert for all activity holidays in off-the-beaten track destinations in UK and France. I have lived, worked and traveled extensively in both the UK and...

read more...

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Trip Reviews for France

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

We had an awesome trip that was planned by Ma...
France | Mar 4 - Mar 13, 2024

Anthony
Anthony K.
Bushnell, FL | Reviewed on Mar 18, 2024
We had an awesome trip that was planned by Mathilde. She was very responsive and met all of our needs. Thank you for your assistance! Read more

We had an awesome trip that was planned by Mathilde. She was very responsive and met all of our needs. Thank you for your assistance!

Hotel Reviews
Pullman Paris Roissy Cdg Airport
Roissy-en-France

Hotel was nice but very confusing on how to get to the hotel. The other airport hotels have van shuttles that pick you up in front of terminals. Pullmans hotel logo is listed on the airport shuttle sign, but the do NOT offer the shuttles. You have to take the CDGVAL train to their hotel which is very easy. So make sure you know that and dont follow the shuttle sign that has the Pullman hotel logo on it as a pickup spot.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Villa Lara Hôtel
Bayeux

First class hotel. Staff was incredible and room was spotless. Perfect location to walk the town or do the D-Day tours.

Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Le Manoir Saint Thomas
Amboise

Staff was incredibly friendly and helpful. Great location and easy parking. Breakfast was awesome also. Thank you!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Easy to walk to everywhere!
Staff
Super friendly and helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Mathilde Dubuisson

We had a wonderful time in France. Vaseem, Lu...
France | Mar 4 - Mar 13, 2024

Emily
Emily T.
Deer Valley, AZ | Reviewed on Mar 14, 2024
We had a wonderful time in France. Vaseem, Lucie, and Audrey took good care of us and helped us navigate our first trip abroad as a family of four. The highlight of our trip was Paris. We loved the guided museum tours and especially loved our Pastry Tour of Le Marais with Rachelle! Read more

We had a wonderful time in France. Vaseem, Lucie, and Audrey took good care of us and helped us navigate our first trip abroad as a family of four. The highlight of our trip was Paris. We loved the guided museum tours and especially loved our Pastry Tour of Le Marais with Rachelle!

Hotel Reviews
Disney Sequoia Lodge

The lobby and restaurants with breakfast buffet were great. The rooms are very dated and the beds a bit uncomfortable.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Ten minute walk to the parks.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel de l'Amphithéâtre

It was very quiet and the staff were all friendly. A bit dated but charming.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Day in Disneyland Paris
Day in Disneyland Paris
France
Self-guided exploration of Aigues-Mortes and Safari in Camargue
Self-guided exploration of Aigues-Mortes and Safari in Camargue
France

While the driver was so sweet and friendly, this tour just missed the mark for us. The advertised photos are a bit misleading. There are no wild horses in France as our guide informed us, we drove around to fenced in horses, a very cool salt marsh, some flamingos, and a fenced in bull pen. There was no tasting of local products, we were late due to an issue with weather, but I don’t believe it would have been included either way.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guided visit, wine and olive oil tasting at Chateau Romanin
Guided visit, wine and olive oil tasting at Chateau Romanin
France

Lovely winery, knowledgeable staff and stunning scenery!

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

The Louvre is overwhelming but we were thankful to have Claire as a guide. She had a fun game for the kids to hunt for specific parts of paintings which kept them engaged. We were not prepared and the kids were thirsty and hungry and water was not easily accessible in the museum. With that aside it was a great time!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
French macaron bakery class for families
French macaron bakery class for families
Paris

The location of the class was very cool, we had no idea we would be in Les Galeries Lafayette. It was nice and quiet in the baking room but not totally sure it was worth our time if I’m being honest. Not super interactive for our 5 and 7 year old.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Pastry Tour of Le Marais
Pastry Tour of Le Marais
Paris

This was a hit with all four of us, Rachelle was kind, knowledgeable, and a not bit gimmicky. We had a wonderful time with her and didn’t want it to end! Also, the pastries were delicious!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half day visit to the Royal Versailles with transfers
Half day visit to the Royal Versailles with transfers
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit of the Eiffel Tower with access to the summit
Visit of the Eiffel Tower with access to the summit
Paris

The views from the top are incredible!

Local specialist: Vaseem Akaram

Dreamy Paris with responsive specialist!
France | Feb 4 - Feb 8, 2024

Monique
Monique L.
Germany | Reviewed on Feb 13, 2024
Mathilde was super responsive to every request. We had to make changes in our planned tours, and she made sure what we needed happened. Paris is dreamy and fun! Mathilde made it easy to show that side to our teenagers! Read more

Mathilde was super responsive to every request. We had to make changes in our planned tours, and she made sure what we needed happened. Paris is dreamy and fun! Mathilde made it easy to show that side to our teenagers!

Hotel Review
Hôtel Lorette—Astotel
Paris

We had two rooms and one was def better than the other. The smaller had a shower curtain instead of door, which makes for a less enjoyable experience. Otherwise location is perfect!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
French Dessert Cooking Class
French Dessert Cooking Class
Paris

Chef Dominique is easy going and funny! This was the best part of our trip! The desserts were simple but delicious! Will show off to our friends our new baking skills!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Mathilde Dubuisson
Mathilde
Mathilde Dubuisson
Local specialist in Villefranche-sur-Saône | Replied on Feb 13, 2024

Bonjour Monique,
Thanks for your amazing review! I'm happy to read that you enjoyed the cooking class and had a great trip :)
I wish you and your family all the best!
Mathilde