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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 & South of France - 7 Days
Paris & South of France - 7 Days

This weeklong itinerary splits its time between the French Riviera and the City of Lights 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 line 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 "Like a Local" Tour in Provence and the French Riviera: 7 Days
"Like a Local" Tour in Provence and the French Riviera: 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 buffs...

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...

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...

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 great for a ski...

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
(7)
· Comfort
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 Hôtel A la Villa des Artistes
Paris
Hôtel A la Villa des Artistes
4.7
(10)
· Mid-range
Steeped in history and artistic charm, Hôtel A La Villa des Artistes is a captivating ode to the rich artistic past of the Montparnasse neighborhood. This boutique Parisian gem is located in the elegant 6th arrondissement, home to an array of fine-dining restaurants, trendy art galleries, and...
Photo courtesy of Boutique Hotel Cezanne
Aix-en-Provence
Boutique Hotel Cezanne
4.8
(8)
· Comfort
Boutique Hotel Cezanne has been a part of the city's history for over 100 years, giving it its authentic charm. Ideally situated near the city's ancient walls, you'll find yourself on the site of one of the first Roman cities in the Mediterranean basin. A 5-minute stroll will land you at the...

Best Experiences in France

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
Seine dinner cruise
Paris
Nighttime Seine River Cruise with Dining Experience
4.9
(16)
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...
Paris
Biking Day Trip Through Historic Versailles
5.0
(6)
8 hours
·
Small group
Embark on an immersive bike tour through the legendary village of Versailles, just a short train ride from Paris. Begin your journey with a ride through Versailles' royal forests, making your way to a local food market where you'll gather fresh French specialties for a picnic lunch. As the day...
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

Leave the capital behind for three nights in Avignon and a taste of the relaxed Provence lifestyle
Map of Discover Paris & Provence - 8 Days
Discover Paris & Provence - 8 Days

This eight-day French escape combines the best of the capital with a relaxed stint in the Provence countryside. Start with a few days in Paris, touring the bohemian alleys of Montmartre, ascending the Eiffel Tower, and savoring French gastronomy and river views on a dinner cruise down the Seine. Then, catch a train south into the heart of Provence and base yourself in historic Avignon to explore the region's charming hilltop villages, open-air Provençal markets, and ancient abbeys.

The coves and inlets of Calanques National Park are a dream for hikers
Map of France City & Coast Adventure: Paris, Marseille & Nice - 9 Days
France City & Coast Adventure: Paris, Marseille & Nice - 9 Days

Combine cultural sights with outdoor adventures on this relaxed nine-day trip to Paris and the Côte d'Azur. Start in the capital with an evening river cruise along the Seine, then spend a day exploring the expansive Jardin du Luxembourg. Catch a train south to Marseille next, and dive into the rocky, coastal landscapes around Calanques National Park with hiking and snorkeling excursions. Follow the Riviera east to end in Nice, balancing relaxed beach time with day trips to Monaco and medieval Èze.

Rows of umbrellas line the sands of Nice, capital of the French Riviera
Map of French Riviera Discovery: Nice, Grasse & Antibes - 7 Days
French Riviera Discovery: Nice, Grasse & Antibes - 7 Days

Discover the glitz and the glamour of the Côte d'Azur with this seven-day escape to the South of France. Begin in Nice to spend a day wine tasting at the world-class estates of Bellet, explore Monaco after dark with a private guide, and take a day trip to Saint-Tropez. Then, head into the fragrant hills of Provence to Grasse, where you'll step into a perfume house to dream up your new signature scent. Finish back on the coast to experience the medieval Old Towns and jet-set pedigrees of Antibes and Cannes.

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
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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 Stephen Molloy
active 1 min 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...
Travel specialist Jane Davey
active 1 min ago

Jane Davey

I grew up in the UK and developed a real passion for the great outdoors, which inspired me to work in travel. As a child, I spent my holidays in the UK with my parents and my brother. My dad used...

read more...
Travel specialist Mathilde Dubuisson
active 1 min ago

Mathilde Dubuisson

Bonjour! My name is Mathilde, I am 27 years old and I grew up in Troyes, in the Champagne region 🍾 It made me develop an interest for sharing my beautiful culture whenever I have the chance (but...

read more...
Travel specialist Amandine Dumas
active 8 mins ago

Amandine Dumas

Bonjour ! I am Amandine and i am 33 years old. I am mum of two little boys. I used to travel by myself and with my husband, but now we are travelling with family. For me, travel is the school...

read more...

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Why travelers love kimkim

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Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

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Trip Reviews for France

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Best tour team EVER
France | Aug 27 - Sep 9, 2024

Robert
Robert V.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Sep 16, 2024

Margaux laid out everything we asked for and more. She was fantastic to work with and we had the trip of a lifetime.
Margaux was always available during the planning and the trip. Her colleague Amandine was available if Margaux was not. I could not be happier with the service we received.
My wife became ill during the last leg of our tour, I could not have made it without the Kimkim team, they helped save my wife’s life. No joke

Local specialist: Margaux Alix
Margaux
Margaux Alix
Local specialist in Villefranche sur Saône | Replied on Sep 18, 2024

Thank you very much, Robert.
Amandine and I are very touched by your message.
We are glad to hear you enjoyed your trip to France and we wish Vivian all the best for her recovery.
Thanks again for your trust in Kimkim and our local team.
I wish you all the best,
Margaux

Spectacular Tour de Mont Blanc
France | Sep 3 - Sep 13, 2024

Sara
Sara L.
Anaheim, CA | Reviewed on Sep 14, 2024

Thank you, Thomas and Rashi, for a wonderful trip. They took care of all of the details, and then were really responsive before the trip, when I had some clarifying questions, and during the trip, whenever anything came up. This trip was on our bucket list, and I'm so glad I trusted it to KimKim.

For those considering the trip, I would say that the hiking was more grueling than I expected, and the weather is so variable, you have to be prepared for anything. But if you're up for the challenge, it was the trip of a lifetime.

Local specialist: Thomas Bringuy

Wonderful Paris and Normandy experience by Aline and Bastien!
France | Sep 2 - Sep 7, 2024

C
Colleen G.
Amesbury, MA | Reviewed on Sep 09, 2024
Aline and Bastien planned a wonderful trip for us to Paris and Normandy! This is our second trip utilizing KimKim and we find their model very good for our needs. I appreciated how accessible they were for questions on the What's App when we arrived and throughout our visit. We began trip by flying to Paris, then "trained" to Bayeux for several days in the French countryside visiting Mt. St. Michelle one day and then Normandy. The local tour guides they arranged for us were ALL terrific! ... Read more

Aline and Bastien planned a wonderful trip for us to Paris and Normandy! This is our second trip utilizing KimKim and we find their model very good for our needs. I appreciated how accessible they were for questions on the What's App when we arrived and throughout our visit. We began trip by flying to Paris, then "trained" to Bayeux for several days in the French countryside visiting Mt. St. Michelle one day and then Normandy. The local tour guides they arranged for us were ALL terrific! Charles gave us a wonderful experience at Mt. St. Michelle and we appreciated all his shared knowledge, sense of humor and even his singing:-). Jonathan (Normandy) gave us a very enlightening and enjoyable D-Day experience despite the pouring rain! He was energetic and so fascinatingly full of history about this important place. Aline and Bastien had arranged lovely chateau accommodations near Bayeux that were so gorgeous and restful. Excellent restaurant and bar on site, even a sweet set of donkeys grazing peacefully in field. The staff at our chateau were all delightful! Our final day we returned to Paris by smooth, quiet train. We then packed two days worth of touring into one as our airline had canceled our flight at beginning of our trip (after we waited 7 hours through repeated delays in Boston). Thus, since we lost our first day in Paris, we strove to pack everything in on our last day. Remarkably it all worked! Trained 2.5 hrs early AM, brought bags to hotel near Notre Dame, walked to Louvre, toured there (Mona Lisa! I had just read The Davinci Code which begins in the Louvre and discusses some fascinating details about the Mona Lisa...as well as The Divine Feminine...) taxied to Montmartre where we enjoyed a Gastronomy tour with Aude, a delightful and very informative young lady tour guide sharing about the amazing delicacies and history of the area, taxied to Eiffel Tower to meet Anna for our graciously rescheduled tour from Monday She was remarkably prepared with much to share and good visual aids to emphasize our learning as we traveled up to the top and visited stops on way down. Fully enjoyed Anna and her thorough tour! We added our Siene commented cruise back on to close our touring which was very fun and finally had a late Italian meal back near our hotel. A comfortable sleep, a surprisingly efficient and delicious breakfast at cafe nearby and then the transfer service Bastien arranged arrived in timely manner to return us to Charles DeGaulle Airport. If only our air travel had gone more smoothly on both ends, but this was the airlines and not a KimKim responsibility. We look forward to arranging future travel with KimKim. Thank you again Aline and Bastien!

Local specialist: Aline Durant
Aline
Aline Durant
Local specialist in Lyon | Replied on Sep 10, 2024

Hi Colleen,
Thank you for choosing us, we are happy of your excellent & detailed review!
We are glad that you appreciated our guide selection for you! It's been a pleasure working with you and you've been amazing traveller to us!
Do not hesitate to reach us for your next trip to France, Switzerland, Germany or Italy!
Aline & the whole team at Serenji Travel