Tailor-made France Holidays 2025/2026

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.

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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.

Hauts-de-France

In the past, the northernmost region of France has been undeservedly unsung. However, Hauts-de-France holidays have heaps to offer; from ancient castles and Gothic cathedrals to rolling countryside and more than 120 miles of wild, windswept coastline. An hour north of Paris by high-speed train, the region’s capital, Lille, also has direct rail links to London which makes the city’s ornate old town, creative culture and Flemish flavours easily accessible (and great for an eco-friendly break, sans air miles). Speaking of flavours, Hauts-de-France has been crowned European Region of Gastronomy for 2023, recognising the area’s rich culinary heritage and focus on farm-to-fork sustainability. And these gastronomic delights often come paired with a locally-brewed beer, enjoyed against a backdrop of dramatic scenery. Waiting just across the English Channel, Hauts-de-France might be ideally situated for a short break, but the longer you stay the more you might find to love.

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.

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Our France
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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.

How long does it take to drive to France?

The length of the drive will depend on where you start your journey in the UK and where your destination is. Your journey length is also affected by how you cross the English Channel – it takes 35 minutes in the Euro Tunnel from Folkestone to Calais, but an hour and a half by ferry from Dover to Calais.

From London to Paris, it would take around six-and-a-half hours without a break
From London to Marseille, it would take between 13 and 14 hours without a break
From Manchester to Paris, it would take between nine and 11 hours without a break
From Manchester to Marseille, it would take between 16 and 17 hours without a break

How much are tolls in France?

Toll roads in France (also known as autoroutes) cost between €10 and €50 depending on the size of your car and the road you’re on.

You pay the amount at a booth or machine at the start or end of the toll road, or, in the case of automated toll roads, pay within 72 hours of your journey on the operator’s website.

What plugs are used in France?

European plugs (Type C, with two round prongs) are used in France, so make sure you take an adapter for any UK appliances. Electricity is 220V.

How long is a flight to France?

Depending on the destination, a flight from London to France can be between one hour and ten minutes and two hours.

What is the climate in France?

France has a temperate climate. The weather is very dependent on the seasons, with mild temperatures (10°C -18°C) and rain in spring, sunshine in summer, damp days in autumn and cold temperatures in winter. Each region of France has a slightly different climate:

In the west, expect mild winters and frequent rain.
In the east, expect warm summers and cold winters, perhaps with snow.
In the south, expect hot summers and mild, dry winters.

What is the time zone in France?

France is an hour ahead of GMT. As with most European nations, the country observes daylight savings, so is two hours ahead of GMT during that period.

What language is spoken in France?

The official language is French. There are a few different dialects across France, including Basque, Breton, Catalan, Corsican, West Flemish, Franco-Provencal, Occitan and the German dialect in Alsace and Moselle. There’s also the Oil languages. Berber-French and Arabic-French dialects are spoken in Arabic and North African communities.

Should I try to speak French?

Knowing a little French will go a long way. Swot up on a couple of French phrases to use with shopkeepers and restaurant staff. Although they will most likely spare you and reply in English, it leaves a good impression. Plus, the further you head into rural France, the more French you’ll likely need to speak and understand.

What do I need to drive in France?

You must be aged 18 or over and hold a full, valid driving licence (they accept licences issued in the UK). You must be able to present your driving licence to the police if they ask to see it, or you may be issued a fine.

In addition, if driving your own car, you must:

Carry your passport as proof of ID
Carry your car insurance certificate
Carry your V5 document
Display a ‘UK’ sticker on your car if it’s registered in the UK
Display a Crit’Air sticker if you drive in certain cities
Keep reflective jackets, warning triangles, headlamp beam deflectors and snow chains in the car in case of emergency

What is the capital of France?

Paris is the capital of France.

Can you drink tap water in France?

Yes, despite many French people preferring bottled water, the tap water in France is safe to drink.

Where is France?

France is in northwestern Europe.

What currency does France use?

France adopted the euro (EUR) in 2002. Currency exchange can be done in certain banks, which are generally open from 10am to 5pm during the week in Paris, and from Tuesday to Saturday in the provinces. Many are closed over lunch between 1pm and 2pm. Some banks also open on Saturday mornings. Please note that the day before public holidays, banks often close earlier.

ATMs are widely available in department stores, railway stations, airports and near popular sites or post offices.

Do I need cash in France?

Yes. In the UK, cash seems almost obsolete, but in France, it’s still king. Some cafés and shops, such as bakeries, often require a minimum spend of €10, which is quite a few baguettes and croissants if you’re low on euros.

What is the religion in France?

France is a secular state where church and state are entirely separate. The country hasn’t collected data about religion since the 1972 census, but traditionally, Catholicism has been the most common religion.

How many time zones does France have?

France has 12 time zones, if you count its overseas territories. However, there’s only one time zone in mainland France.

When are amenities open in France?

In large cities, bakeries and food shops open very early in the morning and close around 7pm or 8pm (or even later in Paris). They usually close on Sunday afternoon and one day in the week.

Most other businesses open between 9am and 10am, and close between 7pm and 8pm. In the provinces, they often close at lunch time from 1pm to 2pm and are open from Tuesday to Saturday (except holidays).

Large supermarkets are often open until 9pm or 10pm. Each city or provincial town/village also has its weekly market where you can purchase regional products such as cured meats, local wines and ciders, and homemade honeys and jams.

How many people live in France?

The population of France is 66,645,527 (2025).

What are the passport validity requirements for visiting France?

Your passport should be valid for the entirety of your stay, for trips of up to three months in duration, and have a date of issue less than ten years before your arrival date.

Do I need a visa to go to France?

British citizens do not need a visa to go on holiday in France if their trip is 90 days or less. Make sure officials stamp your passport on entry and exit.

Do I need any vaccinations before I go to France?

You must be up to date on your vaccinations for life in the UK.

France Holidays

France holiday ideas

Why visit France with Original Travel ?

A few of the benefits of travelling with us to France

Travel to France by Region

Our France holiday collections

France Guide

France Testimonials

Our France specialists

Useful information for your France holiday

What is France famous for?

What is the food like in France?

What is the drink like in France?

What is the restaurant etiquette in France?

Do you tip in France?

France holidays in more detail

What are the best ways to discover France?

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