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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
(8)
· 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
(11)
· 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
(9)
· 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
Paris
Nighttime Seine River Cruise with Dining Experience
4.8
(19)
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...
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...
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...

Our Latest France Content

Unwind in the French countryside overlooking Lac du Pêcher (photo courtesy of Ecolodge Instants d'Absolu)
Map of Discover Paris & Relax in the French Countryside - 7 Days
Discover Paris & Relax in the French Countryside - 7 Days

Spend one week exploring France's capital, Paris, and relaxing at a wellness retreat in the countryside. Start with a free day in the city, then go on a hop-on, hop-off bus tour to visit landmarks like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. Cycle around the Latin Quarter and one of the city's oldest neighborhoods, Le Marais, before heading to Ecolodge Instants d'Absolu. At this peaceful hotel and spa, nestled on the serene shores of Lac du Pêcher, you'll enjoy rejuvenating treatments like a massage and yoga class.

Cycle through the French countryside to Saint-Émilion, Mouleydier, and Sarlat-la-Canéda
Map of Discover Bordeaux & Cycle Across the Dordogne - 7 Days
Discover Bordeaux & Cycle Across the Dordogne - 7 Days

This action-packed, one-week tour offers an exciting mix of e-bike rides, wine tastings, and cultural experiences across southwestern France. Starting in Bordeaux, you'll visit La Cité du Vin before cycling to historic Saint-Émilion to see its Monolithic Church. Visit local wine estates and then continue to the medieval town of Mouleydier. Finally, explore villages and castles on your ride to Sarlat-la-Canéda, where you'll discover the region's prehistoric past with visits to the cave Lascaux IV and Parc du Thot.

See the Château de Chambord and other Loire Valley treasures on this 12-day itinerary
Map of Tour the Palaces & Châteaux of Paris & the Loire Valley - 12 Days
Tour the Palaces & Châteaux of Paris & the Loire Valley - 12 Days

From the gilded halls of Versailles to the fairy-tale castles of the Loire Valley, this 12-day tour features the opulent interiors and intricate gardens of some of France's most famous châteaux. Begin in Paris with day trips to Chantilly and Compiegne, then hop a train to Amboise to e-bike around the countryside and get lost in the hedge maze of Château de Villandry. More medieval fortresses and Renaissance châteaux await in Saumur and Angers before a train whisks you back to Paris for departure.

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 35 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...
Travel specialist Mathilde Dubuisson
active 6 hours 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 Jane Davey
active 3 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 Amandine Dumas
active 5 hours ago

Amandine Dumas

Bonjour! I am Amandine and I am 35 years old. I am the mum of two little boys. I used to travel by myself and with my husband, but now we are traveling with family. For me, travel is the...

read more...

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Trip Reviews for France

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

France was stunning! The Eiffel Tower at nigh...
France | Sep 5 - Sep 15, 2024

Bailey
Bailey R.
Flagami, FL | Reviewed on Nov 19, 2024
France was stunning! The Eiffel Tower at night is an absolute must! Going to Normandy and having a private tour with John to take us back into such a historic day was unreal! Bayeux was such a cute little town with everything nearby! Saint Malo and the boardwalk to get to the center was stunning! We had so much fun walking around! There was the most stunning church inside Saint malo with all amazing statues of the virgin mother and the most beautiful stain glass windows you will ever see! Read more

France was stunning! The Eiffel Tower at night is an absolute must! Going to Normandy and having a private tour with John to take us back into such a historic day was unreal! Bayeux was such a cute little town with everything nearby! Saint Malo and the boardwalk to get to the center was stunning! We had so much fun walking around! There was the most stunning church inside Saint malo with all amazing statues of the virgin mother and the most beautiful stain glass windows you will ever see!

Hotel Reviews
Hotel de Turin
Paris

Paris is a very very large city with all different little nooks! We were about 20min Uber ride from the Eiffel Tower! The room was nothing special but it worked for sleeping! The girls working at the front desk were soooo nice! Helped recommend food nearby for us to go eat! The only thing I thought was weird is we stayed there two separate times on the trip and the second time we went to leave the room for the day and they asked us for the key until we got back even though all our things were in the room! I didn’t like this, nothing happened but it was not mentioned and only one man working there ever gave us this issue!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Would have liked to be a little closer to the Eiffel Tower!
Staff
The girls at the front were great!!!!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bathrooms are nothing special but no issues with the beds! Room rather small but was what we needed for the time!
Hôtel Les Charmettes
Saint-Malo

Stunning view!!!! The back of the hotel was on the boardwalk and it was so peaceful! Only negative was no lift so we had to carry all our bags up multiple stairs!!! Location was stunning though and worth it!

Authenticity & Character
The room had a giant window to open and listen to the ocean with the perfect breeze!
Location
We walked into the center of Saint malo and it took roughly 15min!
Staff
So nice!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bed was good and bathroom clean!
Le Bayeux
Bayeux

Perfect location! The staff was SO helpful we had our rental car die and the man at the front desk helped with speaking French where I couldn’t! Our room was huge! So much room for our luggage and bunk beds which my daughter loved!! Right around the corner from all restaurants and there was even a market open one of the days that was awesome!

Authenticity & Character
It wasn’t wicked fancy but the staff made it feel very welcoming
Location
Close to everything we needed!
Staff
10/10 staff!!! So helpful! Spoke great English and weren’t rude!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Beds weren’t the most comfortable or the pillows!
Activity Reviews
Commented Cruise on the Seine River (Group Boat/1Hour)
Commented Cruise on the Seine River (Group Boat/1Hour)
Paris

Wicked cool! Very relaxing! A nice way to see the most without being overwhelmed!

Quality of Experience
We had been traveling for awhile now so I nice boat tour was perfect!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Weren’t very helpful! Barely saw staff!
Transport
It was raining so we kept going in and out of the boat but it was nice to have the option! Very relaxed! Learned a lot!
Evening Eiffel Tower Tour
Evening Eiffel Tower Tour
Paris

An evening Eiffel Tower tour is a MUST! I just wouldn’t use a private tour like we did! Just go and buy the tickets and do it yourself! Seeing the tower at night is a must and having the experience of going all the way up was incredible! Our guide was an hour and a half late and it just seemed very unorganized! She was so nice but didn’t seem worth the wait!

Quality of Experience
Going up for the tour was unreal! Self-guided would have been better!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
I was traveling with a 3 year old and the guide was 1 1/2 late and then very unorganized. Felt like just a friend was with us because she was so nice but not very informative especially for the wait!
Transport
The Eiffel Tower elevator is very crammed so travel light! But the experience was so cool!
From Bayeux to Normandy D-Day U.S Sector & Omaha Beach (Private/4Hours)
From Bayeux to Normandy D-Day U.S Sector & Omaha Beach (Private/4Hours)
Bayeux

MUST DO! If history is even remotely interesting to you this is an absolute! One of the best days in my entire trip! John our guide was unbelievable! So knowledgeable and took us to the places that he knew the big tour buses wouldn’t be starting at to get us some quiet time! Gave us so much information and it was just truly chilling being there and reminiscing on history!

Quality of Experience
Unreal! Definitely do the private tour with John! Totally worth being private to have this experience!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Cannot say enough amazing things about John! Answered all our questions and really brought us back in time with things we would have never known!
Transport
John picked us right up at the hotel and even had a car seat for my daughter! Great driver and made the day amazing! Also on the way back he drove us down an area to show us great food! So nice and highly highly recommend!
Local specialist: Aline Durant

Loved our guide when we visited Louvre!
France | Nov 2 - Nov 9, 2024

Anuradha
Anuradha D.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Nov 16, 2024

Loved our guide when we visited Louvre!

Local specialist: Fanny Venet

24 days in Paris & western France
France | Sep 24 - Oct 17, 2024

Dana
Dana G.
Australia | Reviewed on Nov 06, 2024

Joel planned our trip which included Paris, St Malo, Loire Valley, Bordeau, Hossegor, and Biarritz. He arranged our hotels, rental car, hotels, and local tours. I was stressed out planning my trip until Joel came on the scene. I would highly recommend Joel & KimKim for any trip to France.

Local specialist: Joël Massé
Joël
Joël Massé
Local specialist in Lacenas, near Lyon, France | Replied on Nov 11, 2024
Hi Dana,
I thought I had already thanked your for your review and compliments upon our services for your trip in France ! But maybe I've not, as I received a reminder from Kim Kim and I can't find my message sent. A bit strange !
So...thank you again for having taken the time to give us your feedback. On such a long and complex trip, which was also organized a bit on "last minute", I'm truly happy that all went well and you could get a memorable and hassle free adventure. I must say that it...
Read more

Hi Dana,
I thought I had already thanked your for your review and compliments upon our services for your trip in France ! But maybe I've not, as I received a reminder from Kim Kim and I can't find my message sent. A bit strange !
So...thank you again for having taken the time to give us your feedback. On such a long and complex trip, which was also organized a bit on "last minute", I'm truly happy that all went well and you could get a memorable and hassle free adventure. I must say that it was the first time we send some travelers to Hossegor, which is a very "surfer oriented" destination and we don't have so many travelers who practice that sport !
Thanks for your trust in me and Kim Kim !
Best regards
Joel