Personalized trips to France
for independent travelers

How it works
Chat with specialist icon Step 1
Tell us what kind of trip you want
Complete our quick travel quiz
Chat icons Step 2
Chat with a local travel specialist
Work out the details together
Credit card icon Step 3
Securely book your trip
100% satisfaction guaranteed

Travelers love kimkim

- ., traveled to in

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...
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...
Paris
Hôtel Jardin de Cluny
4.8
(10)
· 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...

Best Experiences in France

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
Paris
Nighttime Seine River Cruise with Dining Experience
4.9
(21)
2.5 hours
·
Small group
On an evening river cruise on the Seine, enjoy breathtaking views of Paris's famed landmarks from the comfort of your window seat, complemented by a fine dining experience with a selection of wines and a welcome glass of champagne. The dinner is set to the tune of live music, adding to the...
(Photo courtesy of Bateaux Parisiens)
Paris
Seine River Gourmet Dinner Cruise with Live Music
4.7
(22)
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 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 1 hour 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 Sebastian Prino
active 7 hours ago

Sebastian Prino

Hi, My name is Sebastian, a travel agent specializing in France, with a particular focus on outdoor and gastronomic activities. I believe that traveling should be more than just visiting popular...

read more...
Travel specialist Stephen Molloy
active 1 day 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...

Related Destinations

Travelers who visit France also visit these destinations

Trip Reviews for France

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Good morning......... Planning with Lucie was...
France | Apr 13 - Apr 19, 2026

K
Karen G.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on May 02, 2026
Good morning......... Planning with Lucie was easy. She was helpful from start to finish. Our hotel was satisfactory. The staff was excellent. The 2 tours we took with Sonali Harshe were outstanding. She was a wealth of knowledge and her presentation was great. Our food tour was fair. I think the choices of food should have been better. Our guide in Montmartre was great. Our guide was knowledgeable. The entire trip was great. I would use KimKim again.
Karen Glosa
Read more

Good morning......... Planning with Lucie was easy. She was helpful from start to finish. Our hotel was satisfactory. The staff was excellent. The 2 tours we took with Sonali Harshe were outstanding. She was a wealth of knowledge and her presentation was great. Our food tour was fair. I think the choices of food should have been better. Our guide in Montmartre was great. Our guide was knowledgeable. The entire trip was great. I would use KimKim again.
Karen Glosa

Hotel Review
Hotel La Perle
Paris

The hotel accommodations were good. The staff was outstanding.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Starry Dinner on the Seine River
Starry Dinner on the Seine River
Paris

It was a beautiful trip on the river.

Cooking class with a Chef
Cooking class with a Chef
Paris

This was my favorite activity. The chef took us to the market where we purchased our fresh food to use while cooking. She was delightful and knowledgeable. Her home was the perfect space to prepare and eat. I would highly recommend this to anyone who would enjoy cooking in Paris.

Guided visit of Montmartre
Guided visit of Montmartre
Paris

Our guide was very knowledgeable.

Guided visit of the Louvre museum
Guided visit of the Louvre museum
Paris

Sonali Harshe was an excellent guide.

Gourmet food tour in Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Gourmet food tour in Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Paris

Would have liked different food choices

Guided tour of covered passages of Paris
Guided tour of covered passages of Paris
Paris

Our tour guide Sonali Harshe was outstanding. I would recommend her for any tour.

Transport
Local specialist: Lucie Rousseau

Mother/Daughter Trip to France
France | Apr 11 - Apr 18, 2026

Anne
Anne W.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Apr 22, 2026
I had a wonderful time on our trip. Alexia delivered the perfect combination of excursions and down time so that my daughter an I could explore on our own. Our Via Ferrata experience was beautiful and challenging and a definite highlight of our trip. The E bike tour of Marseille is a must and the guide was very knowledgeable and friendly, switching easily between French and English. Our only regret is that we could not stay longer! We look forward to visiting France and using Alexia again! Read more

I had a wonderful time on our trip. Alexia delivered the perfect combination of excursions and down time so that my daughter an I could explore on our own. Our Via Ferrata experience was beautiful and challenging and a definite highlight of our trip. The E bike tour of Marseille is a must and the guide was very knowledgeable and friendly, switching easily between French and English. Our only regret is that we could not stay longer! We look forward to visiting France and using Alexia again!

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Florence Nice
Nice

This hotel was perfect for our stay in Nice. It was close to the old city and the waterfront and had a great petit dejunier.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Casa Ortega
Marseille

This little bed and breakfast is a gem. My room was sparkling clean and the bathroom was updated. The breakfast was good and had a typical selection. The owner of the hotel was as nice as she could be and was very helpful giving me directions and suggestions for my time in Marseille.

Authenticity & Character
Location
It is close to the train station which is perfect but is a slight hike through a few sketchy streets to the waterfront.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Riviera Discovery Cruise: Mala Cave to Villefranche
Riviera Discovery Cruise: Mala Cave to Villefranche
Nice
Aperitif Cruise with Champagne
Aperitif Cruise with Champagne
Paris

This was a very crowded cruise and all drinks must be paid for. From the description it made it sound like there was a free drink but there was no. That said, it is always nice to take a trip along the Seine and this was a small thing.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Via Ferrata Experience
Via Ferrata Experience
France

Jordi our guide was calm and steady. He was very knowledgeable and comfortable in his guiding and made our experience wonderful. He always knew we could do it! This is a beautiful view and trip in nature for the day.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Morning food and wine tour
Morning food and wine tour
France

Nadia, our guide, was lovely. She was so knowledgeable and made sure that we sampled every food that we were interested in. She was very tuned in to our personal needs ( need a coffee, or bathroom break) and we never felt rushed or that we were getting a "canned" experience. It felt fresh and new, just for us.

Quality of Experience
Food
Everywhere we went we had samples!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
City Excursion by E-Bike
City Excursion by E-Bike
Marseille

What a great family and cafe. The owner and his wife Helen were so friendly and helpful during my stay.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Alexia Saint-Haont
Alexia
Alexia Saint-Haont
Local specialist in Montpellier, South of France | Replied on Apr 27, 2026

Dear Anne,

Thank you so much for this lovely review.
I'm so happy to hear that you met some wonderful people and had such a great time!

I would absolutely love to hear from you again about organising another wonderful trip to France!

Warm regards,

Alexia ☀️

A Beautiful Tour through Pays Basque, Bordeaux & Brittany
France | Apr 11 - Apr 18, 2026

Louann
Louann W.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Apr 22, 2026
I cannot imagine a better series of memorable adventures than the ones planned for us by KimKim/France by Locals and our consultant Amandine ... nor can I imagine that I could have had the same results trying to plan on my own. I selected the town of St Jean PIed de Port just based on having seen a Rick Steves video about it, but their choice of Hotel des Pyrenees was ideally located, exceptionally appointed and comfortable, and featured a Michelin Guide restaurant where, on a rainy night,... Read more

I cannot imagine a better series of memorable adventures than the ones planned for us by KimKim/France by Locals and our consultant Amandine ... nor can I imagine that I could have had the same results trying to plan on my own. I selected the town of St Jean PIed de Port just based on having seen a Rick Steves video about it, but their choice of Hotel des Pyrenees was ideally located, exceptionally appointed and comfortable, and featured a Michelin Guide restaurant where, on a rainy night, we enjoyed the best meal of our lives as the only guests. Yannick was our maitre'd, our waiter for dinner and breakfasts, and our guide to travel around the area. When we arrived on Saturday night, Sondrien helped us to find the parking garage and came out in the rain to assist with luggage. The hotel looks like a place Cervantes might have visited, but the rooms have all been redone and are modern, spacious and comfortable with wonderful baths.

I have a vivid imagination, but when I asked for a Bordeaux vineyard experience I could not have adequately envisioned the magical medieval town of St. Emilion, rising up in the middle of vineyards dotted with magnificent chateaux, nor that we would be staying in a former chateau turned comfortable and welcoming B&B LaGomerie, with host Jean-Francois and Jessica and the sweet beagle Paco to greet us and see to our every comfort. From there we walked through newly blooming vineyards to the town, enjoyed two fantastic dinners in restaurants there, but the real highlight was our 5-hour e-bike tour of the vineyards and wine tasting at two chateaux with Rustic Vines. Our guide, Pauline, a trained sommelier, became a friend as she led us on a sunny day I hope I'll never forget and tutored us in everything from vines to wines, answering our thousand questions with patience and charm. The picnic under the trees at Chateau Moncet was a pinnacle experience.

Then, Brittany! The whole point of returning to France was to see St. Malo and Mont St-Michele, and Amandine wisely lodged us in the magnificent Royal Emeraude Hotel in Dinard, just across the bay from St. Malo. We were steps to the sandy ocean beach, the fantastic shops, the market and restaurants, and a quick drive to St. Malo (or you can take a boat across). We loved St Malo, but agreed that Dinard was the better choice for exploring the region, and I would not have known that, but Amandine did.

I read the reviews from people who thought it was expensive to use local experts, but I disagree. I would have used up hours exploring the plethora of choices on the internet, and I would never have known to select the locations, or the properties, that made for a perfect experience. And once we landed we had support every step of the way, via text, whatsapp, and phone (and I used all 3). I had one chance to see the south and west of France, and I am so glad I found KimKim, and they found France by Locals. Merci beau coup, Amandine! A bientot!

Activity Review
Half-day wine and bike guided tour
Half-day wine and bike guided tour
Saint Emilion
Local specialist: Amandine Baillarguès
Amandine
Amandine Baillarguès
Local specialist in Marseille | Replied on Apr 28, 2026
Dear Louann, Thank you so much for your thoughtful and generous words 😊 . It was truly a pleasure to organize this journey for such kind and pleasant travelers. I am so happy to read how much you enjoyed the different steps of the trip : from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Saint-Émilion and Brittany, and especially the encounters along the way. Your experience with our local partners means a lot, and I will be sure to share your kind feedback with them. I am also glad that choices like... Read more

Dear Louann,

Thank you so much for your thoughtful and generous words 😊 . It was truly a pleasure to organize this journey for such kind and pleasant travelers.

I am so happy to read how much you enjoyed the different steps of the trip : from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Saint-Émilion and Brittany, and especially the encounters along the way. Your experience with our local partners means a lot, and I will be sure to share your kind feedback with them.

I am also glad that choices like staying in Dinard helped make your time in the region even more enjoyable. These details really matter on the ground.

Thank you again for your trust, and for sharing your experience so vividly.

We would be delighted to welcome you anytime again in France.

A bientôt,
Amandine

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

Secure & easy booking

Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.