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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
(23)
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...
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
View article
Map 5 Days in France - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
5 Days in France - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for France
Travel specialist Jane Davey
active 12 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 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 11 hours 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...

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Trip Reviews for France

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

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

A
Alison D.
Ashburn, VA | 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

Caroline was fantastic in working with us and helped make our engagement beautiful
France | Jul 11 - Jul 20, 2026

N
Nicholas M.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Jul 27, 2026
Caroline was fantastic in working with us and providing a once in a lifetime experience. I proposed to my girlfriend on the trip and Caroline and the team were wonderful in helping make sure the whole experience went smoothly. We saw and experienced things I would have never thought of, I highly recommend them. Read more

Caroline was fantastic in working with us and providing a once in a lifetime experience. I proposed to my girlfriend on the trip and Caroline and the team were wonderful in helping make sure the whole experience went smoothly. We saw and experienced things I would have never thought of, I highly recommend them.

Hotel Reviews
Westminster Hotel & Spa
Nice

Great location right across from the beach. Beautiful amenities and friendly staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel La Bourdonnais - Tour Eiffel
Paris

Beautiful hotel with a view of the Eiffel tower. It is a great central location that made getting around the city easy. Also, they had AC which was a god send during the heat wave.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Moulin Rouge Evening Performance
Moulin Rouge Evening Performance
Paris

The show was incredible.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Seine River Gourmet Dinner Cruise with Live Music
Seine River Gourmet Dinner Cruise with Live Music
Paris

A beautiful view of Paris and the food was great.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Antibes Heritage & Cannes Highlights Afternoon Adventure
Antibes Heritage & Cannes Highlights Afternoon Adventure
Nice

Antibes was absolutely incredible. Unfortunately, we really didn't have much time to see Cannes.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide seemed a little uninterested and disengaged
Transport
Private French Riviera Sunset Electric Cruise
Private French Riviera Sunset Electric Cruise
Nice

Such a beautiful way to end our trip.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Cooking, Culture & Coastal Wines
Private Cooking, Culture & Coastal Wines
Nice

This was probably the coolest experience we had. It was so much fun going to the market picking out our food and then cooking it together with one of the best views in Nice.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Taste of Old Nice: Market Stroll, Local Bites & Seaside Picnic
Taste of Old Nice: Market Stroll, Local Bites & Seaside Picnic
Nice

A great way to see old Nice. The food was awesome.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sea Life Secrets: Snorkel the French Riviera
Sea Life Secrets: Snorkel the French Riviera
Nice

Snorkeling in the french riviera was a dream. We saw a bunch of fish and a few jelly fish but just being there and relaxing in one of the most beautiful parts of nice was awesome.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Saint-Germain-des-Prés Pastry & Chocolate Walk
Saint-Germain-des-Prés Pastry & Chocolate Walk
Paris

We enjoyed the experience of walking around with RT our guide. She was knowledgeable and made walking around the city fun and interesting. It was a looooot of chocolate that ended up going to waste a little bit because we were so full by the end.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Self Guided Experience of the Louvre Museum  (Entrance Tickets Included)
Self Guided Experience of the Louvre Museum (Entrance Tickets Included)
Paris

It's the Louvre

Quality of Experience
Local specialist: Caroline Serling
Caroline
Caroline Serling
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Jul 27, 2026

Thank you so much for the wonderful review, Nicholas! It was such a pleasure to be a small part of such a special trip. I'm so happy to hear the Cooking, Culture & Coastal Wines experience in Nice was one of the highlights, it's one of my favorites 😊

Congrats again on the engagement! We can't wait to help you (and your fiancée!) plan many more adventures together in the future.

KimKim gives first time traveler best trip ever!
France | Jul 10 - Jul 16, 2026

C
Christopher S.
Winston-Salem, NC, USA | Reviewed on Jul 27, 2026
As a first time traveler, the KimKim team worked to make our travel the most wonderful ever! Clothilde displayed great patience with me. I asked numerous questions and needed remedial explanations during each step of the planning process. I could not have imagined anyone better in helping me understand what to expect and what input was needed from me to make my trip exceptional. I appreciated the suggestions that she made, those suggestions enhanced the entire trip. I'm grateful for the... Read more

As a first time traveler, the KimKim team worked to make our travel the most wonderful ever! Clothilde displayed great patience with me. I asked numerous questions and needed remedial explanations during each step of the planning process. I could not have imagined anyone better in helping me understand what to expect and what input was needed from me to make my trip exceptional. I appreciated the suggestions that she made, those suggestions enhanced the entire trip. I'm grateful for the assist that Gersende and Joel provided as well, especially when we needed to make changes.
We are so grateful to KimKim for making our first trip Amazing! We are already planning more travel.

Hotel Reviews
Royal Plaza Montreux
Montreux,
Authenticity & Character
Location
metropolitan look and feel at the entrance relaxing resort overlooking the lake at the rear.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Chateau d'Ouchy
Lausanne

Loved this hotel. Can't wait to return.

Authenticity & Character
beautiful view from the front and back side of hotel.
Location
On the lake. Great amenities.
Staff
amazing desk and breakfast staff.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Cheese, chocolate and wine tour in Gruyeres!
Cheese, chocolate and wine tour in Gruyeres!
Switzerland

Loved every part of this tour. Learning of the cheese making process from early to current times was tremendously educational.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Most amazing guide. Very knowledgeable of each area that we visited
Transport
Local specialist: Clothilde DIEMUNSCH
Clothilde
Clothilde DIEMUNSCH
Local specialist in lacenas, France | Replied on Jul 30, 2026
Hello Chris, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! It truly means so much to our team.
We're especially happy to hear that your very first trip was such a memorable experience. It was a pleasure helping you every step of the way, and it is great to read that my guidance, patience, and suggestions made the planning process feel easy and enjoyable. We'll also be sure to share your kind words with Gersende and Joel: they'll be so pleased to know their support helped make your trip even...
Read more

Hello Chris,

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! It truly means so much to our team.
We're especially happy to hear that your very first trip was such a memorable experience. It was a pleasure helping you every step of the way, and it is great to read that my guidance, patience, and suggestions made the planning process feel easy and enjoyable. We'll also be sure to share your kind words with Gersende and Joel: they'll be so pleased to know their support helped make your trip even smoother.

Hearing that you're already planning more travels is the greatest compliment we could receive! We'd love to help you create another unforgettable adventure whenever you're ready.

I hope you had a nice experience at the golf tournament and the jazz festival. I hope they were everything you were hoping for and became some of the highlights of your trip!

Thank you again for placing your trust in us. We look forward to welcoming you back, whether it's for another journey through France, Switzerland, or England!

Warmly,
Clo

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