France Travel Insights

Cultural & Culinary Trip from Paris to Provence - 11 Days

There's no need to choose between cultural sightseeing and gourmet tours on a trip to France — this 11-day tour offers both! Starting in Paris and ending up on the French Riviera, this exciting itinerary leads you through top museums, historic landmarks, colorful markets, and gourmet food shops in destinations like Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, Cannes, and Nice. Admire paintings at the Louvre, take a Provençal cooking class, boat around the coves of Calanques National Park, and wander around the oldest quarters of medieval villages. This enticing trip plan has it all!

Active Family Adventure in the Verdon Gorge - 7 Days

Winding its way through scenic Provençal countryside, the spectacular Verdon Gorge is Europe's largest canyon and a paradise for outdoor adventurers. On this family-oriented itinerary, you'll base yourself in the fairytale village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie for a week of hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, and canyoneering. In between high-adrenaline activities, visit the blooming lavender fields of the Valensole Plateau and explore the charming city of Aix-en-Provence.

Paris & the Loire Valley - 8 Days

City and countryside combine on this relaxed 8-day journey from Paris to the Loire Valley. Starting in the French capital, you'll take a glittering dinner cruise down the Seine and sample local cheeses in Le Marais before catching a train east into the heart of the Loire Valley. Explore the medieval city of Tours, then settle into the riverside town of Amboise—the perfect base as you tour the grand châteaus and world-class wineries of this spectacular French region.

Culinary Road Trip: Paris, Dijon, Lyon, Provence & the Riviera - 21 Days

French cuisine and countryside are the star attractions on this three-week, self-drive itinerary. Setting out from Paris, you'll embark on a gastronomic odyssey as you wind your way south towards the Riviera. Take a culinary walking tour of Lyon, stroll the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Beaujolais, cycle to the hilltop villages of the Luberon, and learn to cook Provençal favorites in Aix-en-Provence. After some downtime on the beaches of Saint-Tropez, your journey ends in Nice, where you'll explore its bustling markets and take a day trip to nearby Monaco.

Paris, Aix, Marseille & Nice - 14 Days

Embrace "la belle vie" on this relaxed, two-week French itinerary. After five dreamy days in Paris—pastry tasting in the Marais, touring the Louvre, and boating down the Seine—you'll strike out towards Provence and the sun-soaked Riviera. Stroll the colorful streets of Aix-en-Provence, sail to hidden coves and beaches in Marseille, and taste your way through Nice on a foodie's tour of the city's bustling markets.

Self-Drive France: Provence & the French Riviera - 10 Days

Explore the iconic landscapes that inspired the French Impressionists on this scenic 10-day road trip through the South of France. Starting in Nice, you'll journey west past glittering coastlines, hilltop villages, and rolling countryside to reach Aix-en-Provence. Along the way, unforgettable Provençal experiences await: create your own perfume in Grasse, tour the wineries of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, see the lavender fields of Lavensole, and discover the villages of the Luberon by E-Bike.

Paris, the Loire Valley & Bordeaux - 7 Days

Fairytale French landscapes beckon on this romantic, week-long itinerary. Start in Paris with a twilight dinner cruise down the Seine, then head to the storied Loire Valley. Here in the heart of France, you'll explore postcard-perfect medieval villages, lush vineyards, and stately châteaus. Continue south to elegant Bordeaux to sample the rich local gastronomy and visit the world-famous vineyards of the Haute-Gironde.

Highlights of France: Paris, Bayeux, Marseille & Nice - 9 Days

This diverse 9-day itinerary introduces you to four distinct and enchanting regions of France. Begin in iconic Paris to stroll elegant avenues and cruise down the Seine—then catch a train west to Normandy to explore the medieval history and D-Day beaches of Bayeux. Continue to Provence, where you'll discover the ancient port of Marseille and the colorful market town of Aix-en-Provence, then hop over to the sun-soaked Riviera to end your adventure on a gastronomic tour of Nice.

Gourmet South of France: Aix-en-Provence, Marseille & Nice - 8 Days

Eat and drink your way through the South of France on this 8-day itinerary that blends culture and cuisine. Start in beautiful Aix-en-Provence, where you'll learn to cook Provençal fare and tour the hilltop villages of the Luberon. Head to the coast to stroll the colorful neighborhoods of Marseille, sample the best rosés in Cassis and Bandol, and visit the famous vineyards of Château de Berne. After exploring the forests and waterfalls of the Provençal Alps, hop over to the glittering Riviera for a gastronomic journey through Nice's bustling open-air markets.

Escape to Provence: Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Marseille & Paris - 6 Days

This 6-day getaway immerses you in the rhythms of Provençal life, starting among the stunning landscapes of the Verdon Gorge. Settle into the fairytale village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, then venture into the wild river canyon by canoe. Switch gears and head to the coast to discover the flavors of Marseille with a gourmet walking tour, then bid Provence farewell as you hop a train to Paris and toast your final night with a romantic dinner cruise along the Seine.

Classic Brittany: Saint-Malo & Quimper - 5 Days

Escape to one of France's most beguiling regions on this 5-day jaunt through coastal Brittany. A direct train ride from Paris takes you to the atmospheric walled city of Saint-Malo, where you'll sample local delicacies like crêpes and oysters and immerse yourself in Breton culture. Continue to the elegant resort of Dinard, explore the sweeping white sand beaches of Concarneau, then turn inland from the wild Brittany coast to end your journey among the half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets of Quimper.

The 5 Best Boutique Hotels in Bordeaux

This 2,000-year-old city isn't only about wine, as you'll learn in these stylish and historically influenced abodes. Stay in the city center for easy access to the wine bars and cobblestone strolls, with options like a former coach inn or classic 18th century building, or head into the countryside for a luxurious vineyard spa retreat.

The 5 Best Boutique Hotels in Normandy

Visitors to Normandy have many options to choose from when it comes to accommodations. If you're looking for medieval history, stay at an indulgent guesthouse in the medieval center of Bayeux, with its famous tapestry. Travel to the seaside at the harbor of Honfleur or beach at Cabourg for a shoreline stay, or opt for a romantic garden park at one of these hotels.

The Best Boutique Hotels in Avignon

Considered one of the gateways to the Provence region, Avignon is especially popular with travelers who don't have their own vehicle, thanks to the easy access to group tour pickups. These hotels in the historic center, ranging from quaint bed and breakfasts to former noble residences, will let you explore the city and its wider region from a comfortable and convenient home base that has plenty to offer.

The 5 Best Boutique Hotels in Nice

Find the nicest spot in Nice at one of these hotels, whether you're looking for a cozy literary retreat or artistic glamour, all within the main part of town. Given that the city is known for its artistic influences, keep an eye out for touches like literary quotations and impressive decor.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris & Burgundy - 5 Days

This short five-day trip is the perfect way to see highlights of Paris and the nearby countryside on a road trip tour. Start in Paris to see the Eiffel Tower, then head south to Dijon to see resplendent countryside chateaus and a medieval monastery.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, & Annecy - 6 Days

Big city lights, resplendent chateaus, and medieval monasteries await you on this short but packed six-day road trip through eastern France. Start in Paris, then head south to Dijon — home of the famed mustard. Continue to Annecy for some time by the lake and a glimpse of snow-capped mountains.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Annecy, & Lyon - 7 Days

Spend an adventurous week driving through eastern France, starting in the city of lights. You'll see the Eiffel Tower and other Parisian highlights, then head to Dijon, stopping along the way to see several resplendent countryside chateaus. Continue to Annecy to spend some time by the lake, then end in medieval Lyon, where history and wine tasting await.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Annecy, & Lyon - 8 Days

From the big city lights of Paris to peaceful countryside chateaux, this eight-day road trip itinerary through Eastern France has it all. Start in the capital city, then make your way to Dijon for art, culture, and history. Continue to Annecy for some time on the lake, then end in historic Lyon for time in the medieval city center.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Beaune, Annecy, Lyon - 9 Days

Spend nine adventurous days driving through eastern France on this road trip itinerary. Start in Paris to see the main highlights, then head to Dijon and Beaune to learn about art, culture, and history. Continue to Annecy for some time by the lake, then end in Lyon, where the city's medieval streets and Beaujolais wine region await.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Beaune, Annecy, Lyon - 10 Days

Take ten days to drive from Paris to Lyon on this adventurous road trip itinerary. Start in the city of lights, then make your way to the countryside for art, history, and resplendent chateaux. Stop in Annecy to spend time on the lake and go hiking, then end in Lyon to explore the city's medieval streets and historic architecture.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Beaune, Annecy, Lyon - 11 Days

Start this eleven-day road trip in Paris to see the Eiffel Tower and big city lights, then hit the road for mustard and art in Dijon. You'll see a 12th-century monastery and taste traditional wine, enjoy a hot air balloon ride over Meursault, discover the medieval streets of Lyon, and more on this adventurous itinerary.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Beaune, Annecy, & More - 12 Days

Take twelve days to explore the eastern side of France on this comprehensive road trip itinerary. You'll start in Paris to hit see the Louvre, then continue to Dijon for history and the best mustard in the world. Head to Annecy for a sunset sail with wine, then end your trip in the French Riviera for seaside relaxation.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Beaune, Annecy, & More - 13 Days

Spend thirteen adventurous days on the road on this Eastern France road trip. Star the journey in Paris, where you'll hit the highlights and take a day trip to Champagne. Continue to Dijon to see Lison Springs and explore art, then head to Annecy for a hot air balloon trip and relaxation by the lake. End the trip in the French Riviera for sun, wine, and sailing.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Beaune, Annecy, & More - 14 Days

Spend two weeks exploring the best of the French countryside on this road trip itinerary. Start in Paris for excursions to the Eiffel Tower and Louvre, then head to Reims to go wine tasting in Champagne. Continue to Dijon for history and art, then make your way to the coast for some of the best that the French Riviera has to offer: wine, sunset views, and seaside relaxation.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Beaune, Annecy, & More - 15 Days

From the big city lights of Paris to the quiet seaside of the French Riviera, this fifteen-day road trip itinerary hits all the highlights while still leaving time for small adventures off-the-beaten-path. You'll explore highlights of Paris, including Eiffel Tower & Louvre, learn to cook a traditional French meal, visit countryside Chateaux, and more.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Beaune, Annecy, Nice, & More - 16 Days

Sixteen days is enough time to explore the best of Eastern France on this comprehensive road trip — including the highlights of Paris, Beaune, Cannes, and more. Learn to cook a traditional French meal, explore countryside Chateaux, see the home of Louis Pasteur, -go wine tasting in the Beaujolais Region, and more.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Beaune, Annecy, Nice, & More - 17 Days

Take seventeen days to drive through Eastern France on this packed road trip itinerary. You'll see the big city lights in Paris, tour 12th-century monasteries, go wine tasting in Burgundy, and more as you wind your way through the countryside. Other highlights include a private tour of Monaco, a sunset sail on Lake Annecy, and a historic tour of Lyon.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Beaune, Annecy, Nice, & More - 18 Days

Enjoy a new excursion every day of this 18-day Eastern France road trip itinerary: stroll through the cobblestoned streets of the city of lights, explore the beautiful art of Dijon, savor the local gastronomy at Annecy & discover the glamorous French Riviera. You'll drive through the French Countryside, taking your time as you explore all this and more.

Top Cultural Experiences in France

Many travelers choose France specifically for its unique and diverse culture. Explore Paris for its food, literature, and cabaret, visit Normandy for its art (including Claude Monet's gardens), and escape to the Loire Valley for chateaus, palaces, castles, and more. When ready, head to the south and peruse the unique cuisine and culture of the French Riviera and Provence, plus romantic hilltop villages and medieval riverside hamlets.

Top Active Experiences in France

France is an active traveler's dream, with sandy beaches in the north, the towering Alps in the southeast, several river valleys across its heartland, and a rocky southern coastline dotted with inlets, caves, and coves. You can easily spend your time cycling through vineyards and from one chateau to another, riding horses in the surf, kayaking the famous Calanques, and hiking in the mountains. Or, if you're more of a city person, add a bike tour or vineyard stroll to your exploration of hubs like Paris.

Best Family Experiences in France

Because France is a large and diverse country, it's an ideal location for a family trip. From art-centric and foodie cities like Paris to outdoor playgrounds like the French Riviera and the beaches of northern France, there's always something to do with activities appealing to various ages and interests. Along the way, make unique family memories that you can only experience in France, such as riding horses through the surf at Mont-Saint-Michel, learning to bake macrons, or enjoying a treasure hunt at the Louvre.

Top Historical Experiences in France

France is a historical goldmine, from ancient, medieval, and early modern experiences to the events of the 19th and 20th centuries. Spend your time learning about the occupied and liberated Paris of WWII, exploring ancient castles and villages, and diving into what it was like to live in France during the Middle Ages. In every corner of the country, you'll find significant history that shaped France, Europe, and the world.

Top Culinary Experiences in France

France has always been the center of culinary envy, known worldwide for its signature cuisine consisting of traditional techniques, ancestral secrets, and home-cooked comfort dictated by high-quality standards. From morning pastries to afternoon macrons, farm-fresh cheeses to wine, cider, and olive oil, and fresh food markets offering the freshest produce to unique dishes like snails and frog legs, you can truly enjoy it all in France.

Best Things to Do in Avignon

The historic town of Avignon sits on the left bank of the famous Rhône River, its claim to fame being the incredible Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace ever built. Explore the city by walking or cycling among grand 14th-century monuments while surrounded by unique history. Then take advantage of Avignon's surrounding countryside and discover the heart of Provence, from lavender fields and vineyards to the region's signature cuisine.

Best Things to Do in Aix-en-Provence

Known as "mini Paris," Aix-en-Provence sits in the heart of the Provence region, known for its charm, lavender, wine, and unique signature cuisine. Spend time exploring these claims to fame with cooking classes, wine tastings, drives through lavender fields, and walking tours. Then head out into the countryside and discover more Provençal charm, such as in the city of Avignon, the scenic hilltop villages of Luberon, or the impressive Verdon Canyon.

Best Things to Do in Normandy

Set in northern France along the coast of the English Channel, Normandy is known for its chalky-white cliffs and beaches, the famous Mont-Saint-Michel island, the WWII D-Day landings, and picturesque half-timbered houses surrounded by dairy farms. History is the region's highlight, but you'll also find treasured towns like Honfleur and the Pays d'Auge, gourmet cheese, cider farms, and many sites of famous Impressionist works of art, plus the home and gardens of Claude Monet.

Best Things to Do in Marseille

Marseille unites two very different worlds: the vibrant coastal French Riviera and the charming rolling hills of Provence. In addition, it's France's oldest city, founded by the Greeks in 600 BCE. So in just Marseille alone, you can enjoy a diverse trip strolling through the historic districts while nibbling on traditional food, discovering the renowned world of Marseille soap, sipping rosé among the lavender fields, and cruising or kayaking along the famed Calanques inlets.

Best Things to Do in the French Riviera

The French Riviera evokes images of glitz and glamour. Still, you can also balance a trip with authentic experiences like making your own perfume, learning how to choose the best products at the market, and sipping wine in vineyards set against medieval villages. Then, of course, there's always the history of Monaco and the Monte Carlo to tempt you, plus sailing excursions and visits to the popular coastal hotspots of Antibes and Cannes.

Best Things to Do in Provence

Provence's claim to fame might be its rolling lavender fields, but there's a lot more to enjoy in this region of France. It's a gastronomically rich area filled with vineyards, olive groves, and agricultural land, so tasting or preparing its Provençal cuisine is a must. You can also enjoy wine tastings and exploring historic villages like Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, and other hamlets dotting the hills.

Best Things to Do in the Loire Valley

Known for its wine and imposing chateaus, France's Loire Valley gives you those quintessential French vibes and experiences, with rolling hills dotted with fairytale-like castles and endless vineyards stretching across the region. Visit Leonardo da Vinci's mansion, sip on organic wine, cycle between chateaus, take a hot air balloon ride above the landscape, and discover humble villages, all within one compact area.

The 4 Best Boutique Hotels in Lyon

Lyon's wide range of hotel options goes hand in hand with its wide range of activities. Get acquainted with France's third-largest city with a spot in the center of the Old Town, a school-themed Art Deco spot, or former convent.

The 5 Best Boutique Hotels in the Loire Valley

Why just tour a chateau when you can stay in one? Get up close experience with the historical luxury and design of the Loire Valley with a stay in a remodeled chateau, either in the city center of Amboise or a secluded riverside park in Blois.

Beyond Hotels: 5 Unique Places to Stay in France

Find your own French charm with a stay somewhere beyond just your standard hotel. From floating villages to former castles, these stays will give your trip that little extra je ne sais quoi.

Best Things to Do in the French Alps

With towering snow-capped peaks, charming alpine villages, some of Europe's best skiing, and epic hikes to famous spots like Mt. Blanc, there's always something to enjoy in the French Alps. Ride a cable car to catch impressive views across the mountain range, boat or stroll around crystal-clear lakes, explore cultural towns, and taste the delicious food that keeps the locals warm and full all year long (we're talking cheese) all while breathing in that crisp alpine air.

Best Things to Do in Bordeaux

Known for its signature wine, Bordeaux's surrounding vineyards and La Cité du Vin museum might be its biggest draws, but there's plenty to enjoy in the city and beyond. With the Garonne River weaving through Bordeaux's center, you can explore the city by foot and boat. Stop at vibrant markets and wine shops, tasting gourmet goodies like canelé, oysters, cheese, chocolate, and, of course, a glass of red. Then, enjoy discovering the countryside havens of Gironde and Dordogne, full of picturesque hamlets and vineyards.

The Best Boutique Hotels in Paris

The City of Lights is home to almost as many hotels as it is love stories. The fourth and sixth arrondissements are two of the more enticing spots to stay, but there are plenty of options if you want to make sure you're close to your favorite attraction. Channel the cultural spirit of the city at these art-inspired, high-design hotels.

Best Things to Do in Lyon

Lyon often escapes the list of must-sees in France, but the city and its surrounding areas offer a lot to do, see, and experience. Spend your time exploring historic neighborhoods filled with Renaissance-era architecture and hidden courtyards, tasting the internationally recognized Lyonaisse cuisine, savoring historic sites like the Fourviere Basilica, and exploring the traditional world of silk. With more time, take a day trip to the surrounding vineyards or historic cities like Annecy.

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 vacationing newlyweds do not get much more iconically romantic than a view of Paris, the 'city of love' from atop the Eiffel Tower, a sip of champagne in the region where the drink is exclusively produced or a stroll through ornamental gardens depicting four different sorts of love in the Loire Valley. From a very long and lovely list, here we select the best destinations in France for a honeymoon and what to do in each.

Best Things to Do in Nice

Nice is brimming with unique cultural aspects, including vibrant markets showing off its signature Niçois cuisine, tiny multi-generational wine regions, a gorgeous coastline dotted with historic villages, and the title of the birthplace of perfume. Explore the city by diving deep into its culture, enjoying those legendary sunsets, and discovering neighboring villages and cities, such as Monaco, Eze, Cannes, and Antibes.