Top Destinations in France

Paris

The City of Light is iconic for good reason. Spend at least 3–4 days exploring the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Sacré-Cœur. Don’t skip the smaller gems like Sainte-Chapelle or a walk through Le Marais. Strolling along the Seine, browsing open-air markets, and lingering in sidewalk cafés are just as essential as sightseeing.

Travel Advisor Tip: Consider purchasing a Paris Museum Pass to skip the lines at major attractions and save money if you're doing multiple museums.

Provence

If you crave sunshine, vineyards, and rustic charm, Provence is your dream. From the lavender fields of Valensole (blooming in July) to hilltop villages like Gordes and Roussillon, it’s the French countryside at its finest. Don’t miss the Roman amphitheater in Arles or the market in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue.

French Riviera (Côte d'Azur)

Glitz, glamour, and azure waters define the Côte d’Azur. Nice is a great home base, with easy train access to Monaco, Cannes, Eze, and Antibes. Go in spring or early fall to enjoy warm weather without the summer crowds.

Loire Valley

Known for its fairy-tale châteaux, wine, and picturesque villages, the Loire Valley is perfect for a slower-paced, romantic getaway. Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau are two must-sees.

Normandy

Ideal for history buffs, Normandy offers World War II sites like Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery. Add in Mont-Saint-Michel and the apple cider route, and you’ve got a surprisingly varied regional itinerary.

Alsace

This northeastern region blends French and German influences, with half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and world-class white wines. Strasbourg and Colmar look like they belong in a storybook—especially around Christmas.

The French Alps

France isn’t all wine and baguettes—it’s also home to some of Europe’s best skiing. Chamonix, Annecy, and Grenoble offer dramatic scenery, cozy chalets, and plenty of outdoor adventure in both winter and summer.

French Food & Wine

French cuisine isn’t just food—it’s a ritual. Meals are meant to be savored, with multiple courses and lots of conversation.

Must-Try Dishes

• Croissants and pain au chocolat (from a real boulangerie)

• Escargots in garlic butter

• Ratatouille or coq au vin

• Crepes—savory (galettes) in Brittany, sweet everywhere else

• Steak frites at a traditional brasserie

• Cheese like Brie, Camembert, Roquefort, and Comté

• Macarons from Ladurée or Pierre Hermé

Wine Regions to Explore

• Bordeaux: Famous reds and vineyard tours

• Champagne: For sparkling wine lovers—Epernay and Reims are highlights

• Burgundy: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and rolling vineyards

• Rhône Valley: Bold reds and Provençal charm

• Alsace: Crisp whites and Germanic flair

French Culture & Customs

France has a deeply rooted cultural identity shaped by art, philosophy, fashion, and a love of good living. Locals are proud of their language, so learning a few French phrases goes a long way. Greetings matter—always say “Bonjour” when entering a shop or restaurant.

Things to Know

• Dining: Meals take time; quick service is rare. Tipping is minimal (round up or leave 5–10% for great service).

• Shopping: Many small shops and businesses close midday and on Sundays.

• Fashion: Dress neatly—Parisians in particular take style seriously.

• Social Norms: The French may seem reserved at first, but they warm up quickly when approached respectfully.

Where to Stay

Paris

• Luxury: Le Meurice, Shangri-La Paris

• Boutique: Hotel des Grands Boulevards, Hôtel Henriette

• Family-Friendly: Novotel Suites, Citadines Apart'hotel options

Countryside

• Provence: Stay in a farmhouse (mas) or a vineyard estate

• Loire Valley: Charming B&Bs near the châteaux

• Alsace: Timber-framed guesthouses or inns in Colmar

Riviera

• Luxury: Hotel Negresco (Nice), Hôtel de Paris (Monaco)

• Mid-Range: Le Grimaldi, Hotel Suisse

• Budget: Ibis Styles or apartment rentals

As your travel advisor, I can help tailor accommodations to your travel style and budget—whether that’s a château stay, a boutique hotel, or a city-view balcony.

Safety & Practical Tips

France is generally very safe for travelers, including solo women and families. Like any major European destination, petty theft (especially pickpocketing in Paris) is the most common issue.

Travel Tips

• Pickpocketing: Stay alert in crowded areas and metros. Wear a crossbody bag with a zipper.

• Transportation: Trains are reliable and efficient—use the SNCF website or app to book.

• Driving: Renting a car is ideal for the countryside, but not necessary (or recommended) in cities.

• Language: Learn key phrases like “Bonjour,” “Merci,” and “Parlez-vous anglais?”

• Currency: Euros; cards widely accepted, but carry some cash for markets or rural areas.

• Visas: U.S. citizens can stay up to 90 days without a visa (part of the Schengen zone).

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (April–June): Best overall for mild weather, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds.

• Summer (July–August): Bustling and beautiful, but hot and busy—especially in Paris and coastal areas.

• Fall (September–October): Grape harvests, golden vineyards, and cultural festivals.

• Winter (December–February): Great for skiing or enjoying festive markets in Alsace and Paris.

Avoid August if possible—many locals vacation then, and some businesses close.

Why France?

France is one of those destinations that truly has it all—art, food, romance, nature, and history layered into every corner of the country. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon in Paris, a family adventure through Normandy, or a solo wine-tasting tour in Bordeaux, France can meet you where you are and elevate your travel experience. As your travel advisor, I’m here to help you curate a French itinerary that feels effortless, authentic, and unforgettable.