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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
(9)
· 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
(10)
· 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
(20)
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
(15)
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

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.

Drive through the lavender-growing region of Plateau de Valensole in the Verdon
Map of Paris to the South of France Road Trip: Beaune, Ardèche, Ventoux, Moustiers & Cassis - 11 Days
Paris to the South of France Road Trip: Beaune, Ardèche, Ventoux, Moustiers & Cassis - 11 Days

Explore the wonders of France on this 11-day self-drive adventure! In Paris, soak up culture at the Louvre, cruise the Seine, and enjoy a 2CV Grand Tour. Then, drive to Beaune for Burgundy winetasting and the dazzling "Paths of Light" show. Continue south to canoe through the dramatic Gorges de l'Ardèche and conquer Mount Ventoux on an e-bike. Discover the Provençal lanes of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and the lavender fields of the Verdon before finishing in Cassis to kayak or hike in the Calanques.

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 2 mins ago

Jane Davey

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

read more...
Travel specialist Amandine Dumas
active 1 hour 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 11 mins 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 Stephen Molloy
active 40 mins 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

We had an absolute BLAST on our trip. We were...
France | Jun 10 - Jun 19, 2025

A
Ali B.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Jun 24, 2025
We had an absolute BLAST on our trip. We were able to celebrate our Honeymoon with adventure, relaxing, and new experiences! It was great having our entire trip planned for us, with a detailed guide on what to do each day. We can't recommend Kimkim, but especially our agent, Lucie, enough! Read more

We had an absolute BLAST on our trip. We were able to celebrate our Honeymoon with adventure, relaxing, and new experiences! It was great having our entire trip planned for us, with a detailed guide on what to do each day. We can't recommend Kimkim, but especially our agent, Lucie, enough!

Activity Reviews
Half-day private Sailing Tour of the Lérins Islands with lunch included
Half-day private Sailing Tour of the Lérins Islands with lunch included
Cannes

Wish we could live this day over and over again!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full-day in lavender fields of Valensole
Full-day in lavender fields of Valensole
France
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Market visit and Provençal Cooking Class in Aix-en-Provence
Market visit and Provençal Cooking Class in Aix-en-Provence
Aix-en-Provence

Such a wonderful, unique experience!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Unveiling Masterpieces at the Louvre Museum
Unveiling Masterpieces at the Louvre Museum
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Gourmet food tour in Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Gourmet food tour in Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Romantic tour of Paris by vintage 2CV car, with a bottle of Champagne included
Romantic tour of Paris by vintage 2CV car, with a bottle of Champagne included
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Lucie Rousseau

All in all a great trip.
France | Jun 10 - Jun 18, 2025

J
Juan A.
New Zealand | Reviewed on Jun 23, 2025
All the arrangements were perfect. Our guide, Chloe, in Marseilles was excellent. The pastry chef, Chef Marthe, was a very experienced and amazing teacher. Our captain, Bastian, in Cassis gave us a wonderful tour of the coastline. All in all a great trip. Read more

All the arrangements were perfect. Our guide, Chloe, in Marseilles was excellent. The pastry chef, Chef Marthe, was a very experienced and amazing teacher. Our captain, Bastian, in Cassis gave us a wonderful tour of the coastline. All in all a great trip.

Activity Reviews
Half-day Visit of the Calanques by boat with swimming stops from Cassis (private cruise)
Half-day Visit of the Calanques by boat with swimming stops from Cassis (private cruise)
France
Private Gourmet Food Walk in Marseille
Private Gourmet Food Walk in Marseille
France
Sorgue River Canoe Trip
Sorgue River Canoe Trip
France
Lavender Museum (entrance tickets)
Lavender Museum (entrance tickets)
France

Another unexpected delight.

Pont du Gard (Entrance tickets)
Pont du Gard (Entrance tickets)
France
Free day in Uzès
Free day in Uzès
France
Baux de Provence Castle & Quarries of Lights (Combined ticket)
Baux de Provence Castle & Quarries of Lights (Combined ticket)
France

The Quarries was an unexpected delight.

French Dessert Cooking Class
French Dessert Cooking Class
Paris
La Galerie Dior - entrance ticket
La Galerie Dior - entrance ticket
Paris
Unlock the Secrets of Perfume-Making!
Unlock the Secrets of Perfume-Making!
Paris
Seine River Cruise with Audio Guide
Seine River Cruise with Audio Guide
Paris
Local specialist: Valentine Julien
Valentine
Valentine Julien
Local specialist in Lausanne | Replied on Jun 24, 2025

Bonjour Juan,
Thank you so much for your kind review, happy that you enjoyed France with your grand daughter, what a family memory of a lifetime🤩
Next time, maybe Normandy, French Alps or Switzerland?
Enjoy Summer,
Valentine

Wonderful 1 month in France
France | Apr 30 - May 29, 2025

Steve
Steve B.
San Francisco, CA | Reviewed on Jun 22, 2025
Wonderful 1 month in France Hotels were great, almost all guide were excellent, train connections all great except when the rails were covered with a landslide after a huge rainstorm. Nathalie called to let us know she was making alternate plans for us before we even knew there was a problem. Speaking better than normal French certainly helped, but everyone was very welcoming and gracious. Some minor things for the future: if you are leaving the hotel super early, don't include breakfast... Read more

Wonderful 1 month in France

Hotels were great, almost all guide were excellent, train connections all great except when the rails were covered with a landslide after a huge rainstorm. Nathalie called to let us know she was making alternate plans for us before we even knew there was a problem. Speaking better than normal French certainly helped, but everyone was very welcoming and gracious. Some minor things for the future: if you are leaving the hotel super early, don't include breakfast in the room charge, when staying in 2 different hotels in Paris the driver went to the first one instead when taking us to the train, the guide in the Camargue spoke almost no English which frustrated my wife (we didn't know it was French Mother's Day so the regular guide was not available). Some unforgettable experiences like the huge hail storm while with our private guide in the Louvre and while driving through the towns and mountains around Carcassonne we picked up a monk walking alone by the road who then gave us a private tour of the abbey.

Hotel Review
Hôtel Adèle & Jules
Paris

Loved the rooftop room and the chic breakfast. Neighborhood was full of great restaurants and easy to get to the metro. Quiet little cup de sac, but only a block from the boulevard. Easy walk to Place des Vosges.

Authenticity & Character
Nicely designed modernization of a somewhat small space.
Location
Quiet but near major boulevard and metro stop.
Staff
Always said hello and helped with restaurant suggestions.
Cleanliness & Comfort
No issues.
Local specialist: Nathalie Durand
Nathalie
Nathalie Durand
Local specialist in Beaujolais | Replied on Jun 24, 2025

Dear Steve,

First of all I want to thank you and Jane for your trust and I am happy to read that you enjoyed this third France journey with us and you 've returned with new, unforgettable memories !
I wish you the best !
regards
Nathalie

Why travelers love kimkim

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