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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
With quick access to the nearby Giverny gardens, see Vernon's medieval "Vieux-Moulin" watermill in May or June
Best Time of Year to Visit Normandy

Spring (March to May) is one of the nicest times of the year to visit Normandy—particularly later in the season—when beautiful flowers, sunny days, and manageable crowds can be...

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
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 garden-inspired...
Photo courtesy of Hotel Le Clos d'Amboise
Amboise
Hotel Le Clos d'Amboise
4.8
(12)
· 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...

Best Experiences in France

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
Paris
Nighttime Seine River Cruise with Dining Experience
4.9
(24)
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
(25)
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 1 hour 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 2 days 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 Liz Chreist
active 5 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...
Travel specialist Valentine Julien
active 34 mins 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...

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Trip Reviews for France

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Paris Made Easy
France | Oct 3 - Oct 10, 2026

Jessica
Jessica G.
Boston, MA, USA | Reviewed on Oct 11, 2026
Our trip was wonderful. As the person who is normally in charge of booking EVERYTHING for a family vacation, I was nervous trusting those details to someone else- but everything was wonderful and Amandine was extremely helpful. The vintage car tour through Paris was so much fun- we loved riding around all of the small streets and learning about the beautiful city. We were also the subject of many vacation photos! Sebastien, our tour guide at the Louvre was FANTASTIC. He was so good... Read more

Our trip was wonderful. As the person who is normally in charge of booking EVERYTHING for a family vacation, I was nervous trusting those details to someone else- but everything was wonderful and Amandine was extremely helpful.

The vintage car tour through Paris was so much fun- we loved riding around all of the small streets and learning about the beautiful city. We were also the subject of many vacation photos!

Sebastien, our tour guide at the Louvre was FANTASTIC. He was so good with our daughter- engaging, funny, kind and knowledgable. Even though the museum was SO busy that day, Seb navigated us through like a true pro.

We had a wonderful time with Mai at our croissant baking class. My daughter loved learning how to make all of the delicious treats, and was so excited to try them hot out of the oven when we were done.

Having cars arranged for us to travel between locations was SO helpful- as this was the part I was most worried about accomplishing with my family!

Overall, Kimkim made my first vacation to Europe with my daughter so much easier and we will definitely be back next time we're planning a big trip!

Hotel Review
Aparthotel Adagio Paris Montmartre
Paris

We loved staying here! - The rooms were clean and spacious with a nice kitchenette, close to a small grocery for essentials. - the included breakfast was brought to our room every morning and was delicious! - About a 5 minute walk from two metro lines (2 and 12) that bringing you easily to central Paris - This area of Montmartre is a at the bottom of the funicular (3 minute walk!) so it's easy to get up into the hills, but also had many shops and restaurants very close by!

Authenticity & Character
Location
About a 5 minute walk from two metro lines (2 and 12) that bringing you easily to central Paris - This area of Montmartre is a at the bottom of the funicular (3 minute walk!) so it's easy to get up into the hills, but also had many shops and restaurants very close by!
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Palace of Versailles Half day trip (Skip the line, audioguided & gardens) by minivan from Paris
Palace of Versailles Half day trip (Skip the line, audioguided & gardens) by minivan from Paris
Paris

I wish we had more time for this! Versailles was gorgeous and the half day tour was great for my daughter, but we could have spent a ton more time exploring the gardens. The audio guide was nice and they have a kids specific option available in certain languages that my daughter really liked listening to. We spent about an hour in the gardens and about 90 minutes in the palace.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Transfer from Paris hotel to Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
France

The car services that were booked for us throughout our trip were excellent, everyone was always on time, friendly, clean cars and reliable!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Little Bakers of Paris: Kids’ Baguette & Croissant Workshop
Little Bakers of Paris: Kids’ Baguette & Croissant Workshop
Paris

This workshop was so fun, hands on, and a great way to spend an afternoon. We worked together with the instructor to make croissants and dough, learned about the techniques and had lots of laughs.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Mai was wonderful! We loved getting to work with her and spending time getting to know her a bit!
Louvre Treasure Hunt (kids or teens tour)
Louvre Treasure Hunt (kids or teens tour)
Paris

This was a great experience! The Louvre was incredibly busy on the day of our visit, so having Seb, our tour guide was invaluable. He was so knowledgeable and kept my daughter engaged and made sure she was able to see and experience things even in the crowds. She loved spending the time with him and completing her scavenger hunt activity!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Sebastien our guide was wonderful!!
Guided tour of Paris and secret Montmartre in a Citroën 2CV
Guided tour of Paris and secret Montmartre in a Citroën 2CV
Paris

This was so fun!! We loved zooming around Paris is this tiny vintage car seeing the sights. A nice way to get a lay of the land and explore the nooks and crannies of Montmartre.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Amandine Baillarguès

Everything made easy
France | Sep 27 - Oct 8, 2026

Gail
Gail D.
Irvine, CA | Reviewed on Oct 09, 2026
Lucie listened to us and our priorities for the trip. She then gave us choices of activities and itineraries. The final itinerary matched and even exceeded our expectations. We participated in some tours and activities that we would never have thought of doing. During the trip, Audrey was available to us via WhatApp when we had any questions or concerns. She always replied promptly. Read more

Lucie listened to us and our priorities for the trip. She then gave us choices of activities and itineraries. The final itinerary matched and even exceeded our expectations. We participated in some tours and activities that we would never have thought of doing. During the trip, Audrey was available to us via WhatApp when we had any questions or concerns. She always replied promptly.

Hotel Reviews
Le Clos du Petit Jesus
Cassis

You can't do any better than staying here! Rodolphe was a fantastic host. He answered our many questions promptly via WhatsApp or in person (with help from Google Translate). The room is absolutely beautiful. Especially loved the bathtub and the huge shower. The place is just a short walk to the harbor at Cassis. Breakfast was delicious. Highly recommend and would stay here again.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
La Bastide De Tourtour & Spa Hôtel
Tourtour

The view from our room was amazing. Be sure you book a room with a view over the countryside. Breakfast was incredible. The bathroom tub was a nice bonus because I love soaking in a tub. The only downside of this place is if you want to eat dinner anywhere but the hotel, you will have to drive to another town.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Maison Dauphine Appartment & Art Gallery
AIX-EN-PROVENCE

This is a wonderful place because it has a kitchenette, clothes washer and comfortable bed. However, we stayed there on a weekend and be aware it is a college town. We heard people partying and loud music until the wee hours of the morning. For this reason, I cannot give this place 5 stars.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Résidence Des Arts
Paris

The location makes this hotel the perfect place to stay. Close to everything! A few minutes walk to Notre Dame, the Metro, cafes, bakeries and laundry. Great selection at breakfast. Friendly and helpful staff. Highly recommend. We would definitely stay here again.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to everything that's important
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Gourmet food tour in Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Gourmet food tour in Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Paris

Loved all the different food we tasted.

Quality of Experience
All the food was incredible, especially the cheese.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide was interesting and knowledgeable
Full-day excursion from Paris of D-day beaches - U.S. sector
Full-day excursion from Paris of D-day beaches - U.S. sector
Paris

I recommend this trip, but was not happy about the overall trip because our tour van ran out of gas on the highway on the way back to Paris. I heard from our travel agent that this company is usually very good. But, my experience was dimmed by being stuck on the side of a busy highway while our driver made excuses for the empty gas tank.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Gas up the van earlier and often.
Transport
Self-Guided Visit of the Eiffel Tower with Access to the Summit (Entrance Tickets included)
Self-Guided Visit of the Eiffel Tower with Access to the Summit (Entrance Tickets included)
Paris

It was just OK

Local specialist: Lucie Rousseau

The French Riviera
France | Sep 23 - Sep 29, 2026

N
Nancy K.
Boston, MA | Reviewed on Oct 08, 2026
Due to a health issue, I was unable to travel through the French Riviera, which was a disappointment, to say the least. There was the added factor that I chose not to purchase trip insurance, so my two sons had the good fortune to enjoy the south of France in my place. While planning with Liz, I was clear that I did want to visit the tourist spots, and she was so helpful in accommodating my wishes. My questions or concerns always received an immediate response. My two sons raved about the... Read more

Due to a health issue, I was unable to travel through the French Riviera, which was a disappointment, to say the least. There was the added factor that I chose not to purchase trip insurance, so my two sons had the good fortune to enjoy the south of France in my place.

While planning with Liz, I was clear that I did want to visit the tourist spots, and she was so helpful in accommodating my wishes. My questions or concerns always received an immediate response. My two sons raved about the hotel, which was centrally located in Nice. Apparently, the pre-arranged tours that Liz had recommended were fabulous, but there was also time for self-exploration; the tour guides were warm and knowledgeable; transportation (including to/from the airport) was comfortable and easy (as it had been arranged for me--a woman of certain years with a very difficult knee), and the overall experience was magical.

I am sorry that I was unable to travel through the French Riviera, but there was a joy in seeing it through the eyes of my two sons. Kimkim did a fantastic job, and I would highly recommend Liz and Diliana.

Local specialist: Liz Chreist

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