France Holidays

There's little argument that France is essentially the perfect destination - a fact borne out by the statistics that the country is the most visited on Earth. Those lucky Gallic types have got it all, from Western Europe's highest peak and other spectacular mountains to a sublime Mediterranean coastline, the incomparable Paris and food and wine to take on any nations' and win hands down. Even better, our French connections mean that all our France holidays are suffused with unparalleled insider intel so we can get you well off the beaten track. Sold? You should be.
Enquire now

France holiday ideas

A few suggestions to get the holiday planning process started

Why visit France with Original Travel ?

Given our parent company, Voyageurs du Monde, are based in Paris, our French travel tips are second to none, and are constantly being updated with local knowledge. Supplemented by this first-hand expertise, our well-travelled team can tailor itineraries to your preferences... think the likes of wine-tasting tours organised by our Conde Nast Wine Regions Specialist, cheese-making in the mountains or tours of Paris in a vintage car. Equipped with nothing but school-level French? Fear not; our trusty Concierges and guides are on hand in places like Corsica, where English speakers are scarce.

Enquire now

A few of the benefits of travelling with us to France

  • Our local Concierges
  • The Original Travel app
  • Destination Dossier
  • 24-hour helpline
  • Expert guides
  • 100% carbon absorption

Travel to France by region

Alsace & Champagne

Alsace & Champagne holidays are made for travellers who enjoy the finer things in life. Savour the flavours as well as the sights along the undulating road of the Alsace Wine Route, dotted with medieval villages. Weave through Champagne’s hillsides, houses and cellars, protected by UNESCO’s World Heritage List. History fans can stand in awe of Reims Cathedral, the city that saw the coronation of France’s kings; walk the narrow streets of Strasbourg (also a UNESCO World Heritage Site); wander around the ‘Little Venice’ of Colmar; marvel at the museums in Mulhouse; or stroll through the old centre of Troyes. Nature enthusiasts will love the lakes, mountain passes and valleys of Vosges; the landscapes between the waters and greenery of the Orient Forest Regional Nature Park; and the magical migration of cranes around the Lac du Der. And for those who like the sound of it all? Well, staying a few extra days won’t hurt…

Aquitaine & South-West France

Aquitaine, an area once ruled by the Romans, is now a cluster of vibrant French departments bordered by quaint seaside towns and the Pyrenees Mountains. It would be worth the trip just for the exceptional cuisine, from the Sauternes wine in Saint-Émilion and the oysters in Arcachon Bay, to the fois gras in Landes and the ham in Bayonne. Even vegans will be spoiled for choice, seeing red in the cherry jams of Itsatsu and the peppers of Espelette, or black and white in the region’s finest truffles. But there’s more to Aquitaine & South-West France holidays than the food. Visit for the sea, lapping against the carved coast of Biarritz and rippling gently in Arcachon Bay. Find a surfer’s paradise on the infinite sandy beaches of the Silver Coast and a hiker's holy place among the Pyrenees Mountians which are scattered in walking trails in the summer and skiing slopes in the winter. See the red and white villages of the Basque Country, and inhale the sweet scent of resin in the Landes forest. Most of all you’ll remember the people; whether it’s at the rugby, the ferias (traditional festivals), or simply the smiling locals.

Bordeaux

For wine lovers, Bordeaux is the mothership. Sitting pretty as a picture in south-western France, this world-famous wine-growing region is filled with sunny vineyards, spectacular chateaux (built with the proceeds of the wine trade) and excellent restaurants with wine lists longer than your arm. Just for good measure, and making Bordeaux holidays an even more attractive option, the city of Bordeaux itself is also a very manageable gem.

Brittany

If a combination of cute coastal towns, beautiful beaches and romantic rolling countryside is your idea of the perfect summer getaway, then Brittany holidays are just the ticket. This hilly peninsula in north-western France is the perfect spot to slow down, unwind in nature and make time for simple pleasures, whether it's seriously good seafood fresh from the ocean, or tours around time-worn towns with expert local guides.

Burgundy

Synonymous with good living, the Burgundy region is home to some of the finest wines in the world, and top-quality cuisine to match. Take your seat at the table of La Côte Saint-Jacques in Joingny, or at William Frachot’s restaurant in Dijon, Burgundy’s capital, for an unforgettable dining experience. Visit the region’s world-renowned vineyards to sample its namesake Burgundy wine (as well as superb pinot noirs, Chardonnay, Chablis and Beaujolais). If you get tired of eating (highly unlikely), use the extra fuel to climb the natural prehistoric Rock of Solutre and stroll along the peaceful meanders of the Saone, the key tributary to the Rhone. Meanwhile, Burgundy’s bucolic countryside and rolling hills lend themselves to outdoor pursuits aplenty, including cycling, hiking and boating along the criss-cross network of canals.

Central France & Loire Valley

Deep in the heart of France, the Loire Valley is the epicentre of picturesque feudal palaces. Thanks to the river’s crucial role in transportation before the French Revolution, nobles, royals and aristocrats constructed their extravagant homes along its banks – and luckily for us, many are still there today. Discover the castles: Chambord, grandiose and elegant, and the largest of them all, with its 440 rooms and 282 fireplaces; Chenonceaux, with its intricate arches overlooking the Cher tributary; and Azay-le-Rideau, a jewel standing tall on an island in the Indre River. Gaze at the wild lands of Sologne and the greenery of Brenne Regional Natural Park, where you can spot freshwater turtles, purple herons, and black-necked grebes. For more dramatic backdrops, explore the dormant volcanoes and lush slopes of Auvergne, or head to the verdant hillsides of Limousin and catch a glimpse of the region’s famed red cows. To cool off on your Central France & Loire Valley holidays, swap the swimming pool for the natural waters of La Roche-Posay. Stroll through the medieval streets of Chinon or Blois, and explore Bourges Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Experience central France through your taste buds, savouring the green lentils of Berry, the crottin (goat cheese) in Chavignol, and the sweet tarte Tatin in Lamotte-Beuvron. Choose a charming château hotel on the river’s edge, and at the end of the day, you can sleep like a king yourself.

Corsica

The Greeks used to call the island of Corsica 'Kaliste', meaning ‘the most beautiful’ – and with good reason. Corsica is a place that can’t be tamed - the wildly diverse terrain ranges from idyllic crystal-clear beaches and lush nature reserves to jagged rock formations that make it the most mountainous island in the Mediterranean. You'll find smooth granite boulders that wouldn't look out of place in the Seychelles, turquoise lakes tucked into hollows among the peaks and sandy coves offering the perfect haven for undisturbed sun worshipping. But if you’d rather immerse yourself into this idiosyncratic island's history, Corsica holidays can also be jam-packed with culture. While nominally French, Corsica was formerly part of the Genoese empire, and remains a fusion of influences. Mingle with the smiling locals at a beachside bar and taste Corsican delicacies like wild boar, smooth local cheeses and pretty decent wines. Centuries on, it’s still just as easy to see why the Greeks were so impressed.

Dordogne

When it comes to utterly dreamy destinations that look like they're straight from the pages of a storybook, the sleepy French region of Dordogne (known as Perigord in France) fits the bill perfectly. Located inland from Bordeaux, the Dordogne region was home to the descendants of the original tribes of ancient Gaul, and Dordogne holidays encompass beautiful medieval villages, fairy-tale castles (1,001, if you believe the marketing spiel) and glorious rolling countryside where sunny bike rides and truffle foraging are the only orders of the day.

French Riviera

The French Riviera, located on France’s sunlit Mediterranean coast, has attracted the crème de la crème of A-list celebrities and royal guests for years. Here, the light, the smooth pebbles, the milky blue sea and the clear blue skies are all that’s needed to live the dolce vita. Italy is just a stone’s throw away, brought even closer by its historical ties that blend the best of both cultures together. Taste socca – a traditional flatbread made with chickpea flour – freshly cooked in the old streets of Nice. Visit the chapel of Cocteau in Villefranche-sur-Mer, after browsing the town’s quirky flea market overlooking the water. Breathe in exquisite scents in Grasse, the soul of the world’s perfume industry and walk in the green valleys and the inland mountain trails. On French Riviera holidays, getting your culture fix doesn’t have to mean leaving the glorious sunshine; admire the exhibition of the moment at the Maeght Foundation, where modern art spills out into its vibrant gardens. Listen to jazz within the open-air atmosphere of a Roman theatre. When the sun sets, spend the night at Hotel Martinez, an art deco ode to luxury on the beachfront of Cannes. Recharge your batteries the French way on the Cote d’Azur.

Lyon

Lyon may be France’s second city, but it’s undoubtedly the first when it comes to food. With fantastic markets and restaurants ranging from Michelin-starred establishments to cosy bouchons (Lyonnais bistros), Lyon is the undisputed foodie capital of France. The food-focused experiences combine with vibrant culture and a prosperous university, while the city’s well-preserved Renaissance architecture reveals 2,000 years worth of fascinating history. Outside the city, cycle through the vineyards of Beaujolais and discover for yourself that while these wines are dismissed by many, the ten Beaujolais Cru Domaines are a serious step up from the Beaujolais of your imagination.

Normandy

Steeped in history, the rugged splendour of this region in north-western France has played a disproportionately important role in European history, from the Norman invasion of 1066 to the D-Day landings in 1944. The area's rich and sometimes brutal history has given us some of the most memorable and moving works of human creation, from the astounding medieval monastery of Mont St Michel to the incomparable Bayeux Tapestry and the endless rows of white crosses, standing in green fields; a solemn tribute to the fallen of WWII. This is a place filled with natural beauty and historic significance - it's also the home of Camembert, cider and calvados; so there really is something for everyone.

Paris

The landmarks of Paris are nothing short of iconic. The Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe are among the most recognisable silhouettes in the world. Stroll along the banks of the Seine to take in the unmissable sights and afterwards, experience the city the Parisian way. Treat yourself to a massage at Le Bristol, and indulge in brunch at Hôtel Lutetia, or a drink at Hôtel Particulier’s hidden bar in the backstreets of Montmartre. Marvel at endless art exhibitions and designer boutiques, and watch a beautiful sunset from a Parisian rooftop. If you want to experience the capital beyond the 20 arrondissements, Paris holidays can also be spent away from the centre to discover what lies beyond: to the west, the luxury of Versailles; to the south, the rocks and trees of Fontainebleau; to the east, the open-air cafes along the river Marne; to the north, the greenery of Vexin Regional Natural Park. Experience Paris and the Ile-de-France in your own way, ticking off its icons and discovering its secrets, as a couple, as a family, or with friends.

Provence & The Mediterranean Coast

From the mountains to the Mediterranean, the Provence region of southern France oozes charm. Stretching from the Hautes-Alpes, across to the Rhone Valley and down to the coast, there’s more to Provence holidays than its fragrant lavender fields. Sip an ice-cold drink in Marseille, breathing in the sea air drifting through the Vieux Port. Gaze out over the rooftops from the top of the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, and explore the latest exhibition at the Mucem museum. Or, turn away from the big city, and stroll through the golden streets of Aix-en-Provence, birthplace and much-loved home of impressionist painter Paul Cezanne. See Arles through the eyes of Van Gogh and unwind for a few days in the tranquillity of Hôtel Particulier or in the creative atmosphere of Le Cloitre, both renovated by the Swiss philanthropist Maja Hoffmann. Take a trip to the Cite des Papes in Avignon, which fizzles with energy during its festival, before returning to the unrushed serenity of its day-to-day life. Nature lovers will be in their element, too. Meander through the Verdon Gorge and take a dip in the crystal blue creeks of Cassis. There’s something for everyone in Provence.

The Alps

There are few destinations as awe-inspiring as the French Alps. Standing tall on the borders between France, Italy and Switzerland, these snow-capped peaks are a picturesque backdrop to getaways all year round. The star, of course, is Mont Blanc, towering over the region at 15,781ft tall (and counting – the highest point in Europe has grown over 111ft in 15 years). Only the most hardened athletes can scale its summit, but with surroundings as beautiful as this, you won’t need to. Nature’s wonder is everywhere, from the Vanoise National Park and the shimmering Lake Annecy, to the Route des Grandes Alpes and the Aiguille du Midi in Chamonix. The Alps holidays allow you to fill your lungs with fresh air, skiing, surfing or hiking off the beaten track, before relaxing in the natural mineral waters of Uriage and Aix-les-Bains. Replace the lost calories with some local raclette or tourtons – a speciality pastry stuffed with potato, fresh Alpine cheese and onion – and a glass of Savoy red, before sleeping under the stars.

Our France holiday collections

Discover different ways to explore France

Summer Holidays

Summer Holidays

Luxury Holidays

Luxury Holidays

Couples Holidays

Couples Holidays

Easter Holidays

Easter Holidays

Honeymoons

Honeymoons

City Breaks

City Breaks

Family Holidays

Family Holidays

France Guide

Practical advice and inspiration to help you prepare for your holiday

Practical guide

Best time to visit France

Travel Advice & Information

France Travel Advice & Information

Blog

Just Back: Sophie's Research Trip to Provence

Blog

Most Charming Villages in the South of France

Blog

Summer in the French Alps

Blog

Our Favourite Cheese in France

Blog

Most Romantic Places in France

Blog

Hidden Gems in Paris

Blog

Five Best Beach Towns in France

Blog

Best National Parks in France

Blog

Most Beautiful Wine Routes in France

France testimonials

10 reviews
4.7 / 5
"The Concierge were responsive and helpful on the couple of occasions we contacted them, and the hotels were great. Our favourite was Hôtel Version Maquis Santa Manza, Bonifacio - the buggy ride to the secluded beach was amazing! We really enjoyed the 4x4 tour of the Agriates desert too, and the guide was very good."
P - UK
Published on 29th September 2025
"Izzy delivered on all our expectations. Her care and attention to detail were outstanding, and her knowledge of the country and its regions was incredibly helpful. Our Concierge was super responsive to all of our requests and queries. The whole trip was superb, and we were never disappointed. The quality and professionalism of Izzy and the whole team never failed to impress. We are incredibly grateful to Original Travel for giving us such a wonderful time. Thank you."
C - UK
Published on 2nd September 2025
"Izzy has arranged a few European trips for us and she is fabulous. We have high expectations and were very happy with our trip. Our tour guide for three days was outstanding and the restaurant recommendations were exactly as we hoped. We do a lot of travel and this trip is at or near the top."
D - USA
Published on 16th May 2025
See all France reviews

Our France
specialists

Our talented consultants, including a Conde Nast Wine Regions Specialist, have explored France from Bordeaux to Burgundy to bring you the best secret experiences (horse ride in the Camargue, anyone?). On the ground, we work with clued-up Concierges who are well-versed in aiding with anything from lost passports to securing tables at exclusive restaurants. For culture-rich experiences, our local guides’ bilingual language skills will help you discover locations like a local.

Useful information for your France holiday

What is France famous for?

France is famous for its long and eventful history, world-class culinary reputation and diverse culture made up of different regional identities and communities, which maintain their identity through customs and traditions, from German food in Alsace to Celtic music in Brittany.

What is the food like in France?

France is known across the world for its excellent cuisine. From the smallest café to the grandest gourmet restaurant, you’ll be able to find something delicious to dine on (think beef bourguignon, coq au vin and French onion soup). Typically, the food is rich and packed with flavour, and the French are famed for their wine, bread and cheese.

There are so many specialities across the country that each region has its own flavour and distinct character, from sauerkraut and white wine in the Alsace region and snails and beef in Burgundy, to butter pancakes in Brittany and the iconic Normandy Camembert.

What is the drink like in France?

France is indisputably one of the world’s best places for wine including white, red and rosé and it is, of course, the birthplace of Champagne. You can also find Cognac, Armagnac, Grand Marnier, Cointreau, Absinthe and more.

What is the restaurant etiquette in France?

French restaurants run a tight ship. Breakfast and lunch come early, but dinner reservations start late (from about 8pm onwards). The bar, café and restaurant culture is strong in France, and you’ll find plenty of chic places to eat and drink. Some even open early for breakfast and then turn into a bar that doesn’t close until two in the morning.

It’s also important to note that during the Les Grandes Vacances (summer holidays) – which the French take very seriously – many restaurants and smaller boutiques shut so their owners and employees can enjoy the August sun.

Do you tip in France?

Tipping isn’t expected in France, but it’s customary to leave a small tip at your discretion, if you experienced great service. Restaurants usually include a service charge.

What are the best ways to discover France?

You have to start with Paris, l'épicentre of all things French. Until recently we thought twice about featuring a city so familiar to so many, but Paris might be the perfect victim of this era of social media-led information overload. So many boutique hotels to choose from, so many delicious bistros to sample, so many opinions on both. As a result, we are starting to work with a select few hotels that we think are best in show (or at least best in arrondisement) and we'd like to think our dossier of places to eat and drink in the city is so up to speed that a weekend in the City of Lights should be the perfect Big Short Break.

If you're looking to take your French foray further afield, there's some place called the Cote D'Azur that allegedly has some nice places to stay and rather attractive coastal scenery. You may have heard of it. The wider region of Provence, with its trademark lavender fields and honey-coloured stone villages, really does come close to God's own country. Despite what Yorkshiremen might have to say on the subject.

Over in the Alps, bon skiveurs will know all about the classic French ski resorts of the Trois Vallées, but Chamonix and Val d'Isère certainly give the holy trinity a red run for their money.

Heading west, the gastronomic heartland of France is not Paris, but the lovely city of Lyon with its ancient city centre, complete with mysterious traboules, secret passages dating back to the Middle Ages. Lyon is also the perfect place from which to strike out on your luxury holiday and explore the legendary wine regions of Burgundy and the Rhone Valley.

On the subject of wine, no lover of the grape could ever get bored with Bordeaux. The city itself is worth a look, built as it is on the profits of the sale of its most favourite export, but the wider wine region is just a very special place with the idyllic town of St Emilion a particular favourite.

Last but by no means least is a French island with Italian influences, which surely must rate as the most unbeatable of luxury holiday combinations. Corsica, the island in question, is an incredible holiday itself, but also makes a great combo with Paris or the Cote D'Azur.

Best places to go in France

Europe by Car Europe Road Trips European Culture Europe Foodie in Europe Europe Beach Romantic in Europe Train Travel Europe UNESCO Travel in Europe Wilderness in Europe Family Summer to Europe Family Europe Easter Family to Europe Art, Archaeology and Architecture in Europe Anniversary in Europe Bonifacio May Half Term to Europe Nice Slow Travel Europe Calvi
Contact one of our France specialists