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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.

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...

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
(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 Hotel Le Negresco
Nice
Hotel Le Negresco
5.0
(6)
· 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
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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 5 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 Dubuisson
active 2 days ago

Mathilde Dubuisson

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 day 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 Stephen Molloy
active 57 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

Paris and Northern France in 10 amazing days
France | Jan 12 - Jan 22, 2026

Lori
Lori C.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Jan 25, 2026
My only regret was not adding a few more days. ... We started working with Sebastian back in October, telling him the must see places for a 10 day January trip in Paris and the surrounding areas. We basically told him the places we wanted to see-Chateau country, Chartres, Mont Saint-Michel, Bayeux , and Reims and he put together the itinerary which included trains, car, and truly lovely hotels, all perfectly placed to be close to the historical sites we wanted to see. La Maison... Read more

My only regret was not adding a few more days. ...

We started working with Sebastian back in October, telling him the must see places for a 10 day January trip in Paris and the surrounding areas. We basically told him the places we wanted to see-Chateau country, Chartres, Mont Saint-Michel, Bayeux , and Reims and he put together the itinerary which included trains, car, and truly lovely hotels, all perfectly placed to be close to the historical sites we wanted to see. La Maison Rabelais in Amboise, Le Boeuf Couronee in Chartres, and the Grand Hotel Luxembourg in Bayeux . In Paris, where we explored Notre Dame de Paris, Ste Chapelle, the entire Left Bank from Shakespeare and Company out to St. Germain de Pre, (didn't have time for the Invalides, Musee de Cluny, or the Rodin) the Central sites and we stayed with hotels from the Astotel Group, my personal favorite was the Astoria near the Pigalle area of Paris.

Speaking of guides, Veronique (Vero), our full day guide in Chateau country for Chambord and Chenonceau, was a walking professor of history, she knew not just events and dates, but all the fun stories that go behind the dates, as did Stephanie for le Mont Saint-Michel. Nico for Paris and Gwen for Normandy rounded out our local guides.

France By Locals/Sebastian was immediately responsive each and every time we had a question on this trip, like when we couldn't find a guide or forgot where to return something. All resolved swiftly.

Hotel Reviews
L'Auberge de la Mère Poulard
Le Mont-Saint-Michel

I loved it. Mere Poulard is right at the beginning of the main street of Mont Saint Michel in the walls of the city. so bring your overnight clothes in a backpack because you don't want to be rolling any kind of suitcase on the cobbles. From where we were located, you could walk up another set of stairs and have amazing views of the Ramparts and the city, which I did just before dawn and it was stupendous. The only thing I would say is there was a strong odor of cat, not in the room at all, but in the staircase going up to the room. If they could remove that, this would be a 10.

Authenticity & Character
built into the rock that is the base of the Abbey.
Location
Hotel Astoria - Astotel
Paris

Has a great vibe which you can feel as soon as you walk through the front door, bright, cheerful, lots of French travelers, so the Petit Dejeuner breakfast room is always hopping. Comfortable rooms and main sitting room, close to Pigalle and Montmartre.

Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
 Chateaux de Chambord et Chenonceau (winter version)
Chateaux de Chambord et Chenonceau (winter version)
France

Veronique the guide was truly fabulous. knew everything about what we were seeing and answers to the most obscure questions.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Sebastian Prino
Sebastian
Sebastian Prino
Local specialist in Marseille | Replied on Jan 26, 2026
Dear Lori, how are you? Thank you very much for this lovely feedback. I am really glad the itinerary, logistics, hotels, and guides all came together smoothly, especially with such a full route in ten days. I will pass your kind words on to Véronique, Stéphanie, Nico, and Gwen. Working with guides who truly know their regions and enjoy sharing them is essential for us. Thank you as well for highlighting our responsiveness. Being available and solving things quickly on the ground is a key... Read more

Dear Lori, how are you?

Thank you very much for this lovely feedback. I am really glad the itinerary, logistics, hotels, and guides all came together smoothly, especially with such a full route in ten days.

I will pass your kind words on to Véronique, Stéphanie, Nico, and Gwen. Working with guides who truly know their regions and enjoy sharing them is essential for us.

Thank you as well for highlighting our responsiveness. Being available and solving things quickly on the ground is a key part of our role.

Your only regret — not adding a few more days — is the best kind of feedback we could receive. We would be happy to help you continue exploring France at a slower pace next time.

Warm regards,
Sebastian

Liz created the perfect itinerary for this qu...
France | Jan 19 - Jan 22, 2026

Joost
Joost S.
Sunnyvale, CA | Reviewed on Jan 23, 2026
Liz created the perfect itinerary for this quick business trip. She helped select a couple of cool experiences on our free day and found us the perfect boutique hotel. If only every business trip was this smooth, easy and fun! Read more

Liz created the perfect itinerary for this quick business trip. She helped select a couple of cool experiences on our free day and found us the perfect boutique hotel. If only every business trip was this smooth, easy and fun!

Hotel Review
Hôtel Fior d'Aliza
Paris

Loved this hotel. It's small, has a very cozy and nicely designed lobby and the rooms are comfortable, and spotlessly clean. Location is great, with many small local restaurants and coffee shops within a few minutes walk. Metro is around the corner and you can walk to Montmartre and Opera in about 10 - 20 minutes through nice neighborhoods. The best hotel I've stayed in Paris.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Super friendly and helpful front desk staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Iconic Paris Views from Galeries Lafayette Terrace
Iconic Paris Views from Galeries Lafayette Terrace
Paris

Great views from the top of galleries Lafayette the reason i didn't give this 5* is that it feels a little touristy, and the restaurant is a bit of a food court. That said, great stop of you are nearby.

Quality of Experience
Saint Germain Gourmet Food Walk
Saint Germain Gourmet Food Walk
Paris

Very cool food tour. It started a bit slow for my taste with a focus on Paris history and layout of the neighborhoods, but it got progressively better and ended with a very good dinner in a small Basque restaurant. We connected really well with our guide Duniya and shared lots of laughs over food and great wines.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private Exploration of the Opera Garnier
Private Exploration of the Opera Garnier
Paris

Very engaging tour. Our guide Sylvanie took us through the history of the planning, architect selection and other historic context of the Opera house. It's an impressive building with lots of beautiful spaces.

Local specialist: Liz Chreist

We had an amazing trip! I really cannot thank...
France | Nov 22 - Nov 28, 2025

P
Phyllis J.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Jan 20, 2026
We had an amazing trip! I really cannot thank Liz and Dilliana enough, other than to publicize that I and my family could NEVER have done all the planning, all the follow-up, all the canceling and rebooking (flight & personal issues!), all the scheduling and buying of tickets, and lining up absolutely the BEST, most personable and knowledgeable tour guides I have ever experienced in my life’s travels!! Really, without hesitation or doubt, KIM-KIM delivered without a single disappointment…even... Read more

We had an amazing trip! I really cannot thank Liz and Dilliana enough, other than to publicize that I and my family could NEVER have done all the planning, all the follow-up, all the canceling and rebooking (flight & personal issues!), all the scheduling and buying of tickets, and lining up absolutely the BEST, most personable and knowledgeable tour guides I have ever experienced in my life’s travels!! Really, without hesitation or doubt, KIM-KIM delivered without a single disappointment…even when a few plans couldn't work out last-minute because of our schedule conflicts. Kudos to Liz Kate and Dilliana…I /all of us…there were 8 girls…Mom, daughter, daughter-in-law, and 4 granddaughters! All of us are so grateful for the efforts (above and beyond!) you made on our behalf. In spite of not the most pleasant of weather, it was simply a perfectly planned trip that every single one of us will remember for a lifetime. And, P.S…they were so accessible that we felt they were almost right along with us the entire week!

Hotel Review
Aparthotel Quartier Libre Saint Georges
Paris
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Private Exploration of Le Marais District
Private Exploration of Le Marais District
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Exploration of Rodin Museum
Private Exploration of Rodin Museum
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
❌ Eiffel Tower : Reserved Access to the Summit + Audio guide
❌ Eiffel Tower : Reserved Access to the Summit + Audio guide
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The Phantom’s Lair: A Mystical Journey Through the Opera Garnier For Families
The Phantom’s Lair: A Mystical Journey Through the Opera Garnier For Families
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Notre-Dame & Sainte-Chapelle Visit  with Priority Access
Private Notre-Dame & Sainte-Chapelle Visit with Priority Access
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Seine River Cruise
Private Seine River Cruise
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Learn about the History of Impressionism with a Private Musee d’Orsay Tour
Learn about the History of Impressionism with a Private Musee d’Orsay Tour
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Self-Guided Champs-Elysées Discovery Walk
Self-Guided Champs-Elysées Discovery Walk
Paris
Quality of Experience
Unlock the Secrets of Perfume-Making!
Unlock the Secrets of Perfume-Making!
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private French Pastry Class
Private French Pastry Class
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Louvre Museum Visit
Private Louvre Museum Visit
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Palace of Versailles Day Trip with Priority Access – Half-Day Tour
Palace of Versailles Day Trip with Priority Access – Half-Day Tour
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
La Défence Christmas Market
La Défence Christmas Market
Paris
Quality of Experience
At leisure: The Covered Passages of Paris
At leisure: The Covered Passages of Paris
Paris
Quality of Experience
Leisure time at Luxembourg Garden
Leisure time at Luxembourg Garden
Paris
Quality of Experience
Eiffel Tower Summit Tickets
Eiffel Tower Summit Tickets
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Photoshoot in the Heart of Paris - Eiffel Tower
Photoshoot in the Heart of Paris - Eiffel Tower
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Liz Chreist

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