Life of Travel
France
Destination Guide
Romance, wine, art, and cuisine in the world's most visited country
Welcome to France
France needs little introduction. Paris alone could fill a lifetime of visits, but beyond the capital lies an extraordinary country of lavender fields in Provence, glamorous beaches on the Riviera, Loire Valley chateaux, Alpine ski resorts, and wine regions that have defined viticulture worldwide. The French art de vivre (art of living) infuses everything from morning croissants to evening aperitifs.
France In Photos
Provence
Mont Saint Michel
French Riviera
Loire Valley
Best Time to Visit
Spring
April to June
Paris in bloom, mild weather, and manageable crowds. Outdoor cafe season begins. Perfect for countryside exploring.
Autumn
September to October
Grape harvest in wine regions, beautiful colours, fewer tourists than summer. Ideal for Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne.
Top Destinations
Paris
The City of Light needs no introduction
Best for: Art • Culture • Food • Romance • History
Provence
Lavender, sunshine, and the good life in southern France
Best for: Wine • Countryside • Markets • Relaxation
French Riviera
Glamorous coastline from Nice to Monaco and St Tropez
Best for: Beaches • Glamour • Family Resorts • Mediterranean
Bordeaux & Wine Country
World famous wine region with stunning chateaux
Best for: Wine Tasting • Gastronomy • Chateaux • Cycling
Top Things to Do
- 🗼Climb the Eiffel Tower at sunset for magical views over Paris
- 🖼️Spend a day in the Louvre with the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo
- 🍷Tour the vineyards of Bordeaux, Burgundy, or Champagne
- 🏰Visit Loire Valley chateaux like Chambord and Chenonceau
- 🏖️Lounge on the beaches of Nice or glamorous St Tropez
- 🥐Take a French cooking or pastry class in Paris
The Louvre
French Pastries
Versailles
France Tips
Learn basic French phrases. A simple Bonjour and Merci go a long way with locals
Lunch is the best value meal. Many restaurants offer fixed price menus that are excellent value
The TGV high speed train connects major cities fast. Paris to Lyon in 2 hours, Paris to Marseille in 3
Tipping is not expected (service is included) but rounding up is appreciated
Everything closes for lunch in smaller towns. Plan around 12 to 2pm closures
Perfect 10 Day Itinerary
Days 1 to 4: Paris
Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Montmartre, Notre Dame area, Seine cruise. Day trip to Versailles. Evening in the Marais or Saint Germain
Days 5 to 6: Loire Valley
Train to Tours, rent a car. Visit Chambord, Chenonceau, and Amboise. Stay in a chateau hotel if budget allows
Days 7 to 8: Bordeaux
TGV to Bordeaux. Wine tasting in Saint Emilion, explore the elegant city center, riverside dining
Days 9 to 10: Nice & Riviera
Train along the coast to Nice. Walk the Promenade des Anglais, day trip to Monaco or Eze, enjoy beach time
Frequently Asked Questions
No, this is a stereotype. Say Bonjour when entering shops and restaurants, attempt some French, and you'll find the French are warm and helpful. Paris service style is just more formal than Americans expect.
Excellent for families! Disneyland Paris is a highlight, Loire Valley castles fascinate children, the beaches of the Riviera are family-friendly, and French food is more child-friendly than you might think. Children are welcomed warmly in restaurants.
Not for Paris or between major cities (trains are excellent). But for the Loire Valley, Provence, and wine regions, a car gives much more freedom. Book in advance for better rates.
The French dress well. Smart casual works everywhere. Avoid athletic wear, flip flops, and baseball caps in cities and restaurants. A scarf or nice jacket elevates any outfit.
Ready for Your French Adventure?
Let us take the stress out of planning your perfect family holiday. We'll arrange family-friendly hotels in Paris, chateau visits that engage children, and beach resorts on the Riviera.
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