Say bonjour to the good life – Alpine vistas, hidden rural gems and arguably the world’s best cheese
France Tours & Trips
Our Best Trips to France
Our Top Destinations in France
Activities in France
Highlights of our France Trips
1. The French Alps: The magnificent Alps are marked by huge glaciers, cliffs and waterfalls, and massive snow-clad summits. As you zigzag up the valley, forests take over, before thinning away to reveal the mountains. The pretty town of Chamonix tends to be the base for those wanting to explore the mighty Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps. In the summer, trek through sweet-smelling pastures, while in winter explore the snowy wilderness on snowshoes. Dotted among the dramatic peaks you’ll find charming alpine villages where you can enjoy authentic French cuisine and learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage.
2. Provence: In southeastern France, Provence is a Francophile’s dream, where fragrant lavender fields drift into medieval hamlets and meals are shaped by the land itself. Traditional culture thrives in the cobbled lanes of Forcalquier and graceful boulevards of Aix-en-Provence, while the countryside is rich with welcoming vineyards and silvery olive groves.
3. The Loire Valley: Punctuated by more than 300 UNESCO World Heritage-listed chateaux, including the iconic Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau, the Loire Valley is a treasure trove of architectural marvels. As you explore ancient landscapes and world-renowned vineyards, feast on deliciously ripe tomatoes and crusty French bread, and sample some of the best wines that France has to offer, such as Sancerre and Muscadet. With its traditional villages, rolling hills and meandering river, the Loire Valley is a must-visit location in the cultural heart of France.
4. Corsica: A captivating island that rises from the glistening Mediterranean Sea, Corsica is blessed with natural beauty and rich history. This French territory plays host to rugged mountains, gin-clear waters and idyllic villages and is also famous for being the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, adding to its historic significance. Adventure seekers will be in their element on the island as they’ll find a wide range of outdoor activities , as well as cultural experiences such as exploring ancient ruins and sampling delicious local cuisine.
5. Northern France to Brittany & Normandy: The neighbouring regions of Brittany and Normandy are steeped in history, medieval villages and port towns. Cycling from one to the other allows you to take in this culture-rich region of Europe, with a chance to visit D-Day beaches, see the floating abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel and ride a terrain that mixes coast and countryside. There’s great food here too thanks to the location, particularly at Cancale, which is renowned for shellfish.
6. Burgundy & Alsace: Discover picturebook France in Burgundy’s vine-draped hillsides and Alsace’s half-timbered villages and storybook canals. Medieval towns, regal châteaux, and sweeping vineyards pour out history at every turn, while the deep wine and culinary heritage of both regions turns every moment into a journey through taste and tradition.
Planning your Trip to France?
What is the weather like in France?
France’s weather differs depending on the location and season. Overall, its climate is temperate and seasonal so, while it’s typically mild, hot and cold extremes can be common in the summer and winter months. Autumn is typically much wetter than the rest of the year, too.
That being said, France is a large country which straddles several climate zones:
- Southern France has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers, mild winters and less rainfall than elsewhere.
- Central and Eastern France has a continental climate, with hot summers, cold winters and plenty of rainfall.
- Western France’s climate is oceanic, with milder conditions year-round and lots of rainfall.
What time of the year is best to go to France?
The best time to visit France depends on the activities that you want to experience during your trip.
For the hottest, sunniest weather, July and August is the best, though beware that this is also the country’s busiest tourist season.
April to June and September to October are good choices for warmer weather and fewer crowds – great if you want more of the country to yourself, such as a higher likelihood of getting a spot at top restaurants. If you want to travel to destinations like Corsica, this can be the best time of the year to visit.
Low season, between November and March, is much quieter on account of the wintry weather, though you may find that some opening hours for shops, bars and restaurants are a little restricted. Mountainous areas of France like Chamonix in the French Alps are often busier in these months, on account of the ski season.
What is French tipping culture like?
In France, tipping is not expected or required.
You can leave a supplementary tip for great service but you’re not obliged to do so. And if service is included in the bill, the venue must, by French law, state ‘15% service compris’ at the bottom of the bill – this statement by the French government sets out the practice.
Can I arrange my own travel?
Yes, you can arrange your own travel depending on your requirements. Just talk to any of our team when making your booking – they’ll be able to accommodate your own travel arrangements. If you want them to customise your travel plans for you, they can help you with that, too.
How many days is sufficient when touring France?
Our tours to France typically span between six and 15 days, depending on the destination and itinerary.
The majority are around eight days in length, which gives you plenty of time to immerse yourself in your destination and sample the best that the area has to offer, while still giving you plenty of time to relax in between transfers.
What is the best way to explore France?
The best way to explore France is entirely down to your preferences.
We find that cycling, trekking and walking adventure holidays are great ways to explore and experience the country. They let you see France from a close and personal perspective – smells, sounds, sights, tastes and conversations with locals all make for a one-of-a-kind visit.
Alison Johnston Hike Corsica's Mountains & CoastThis is a new trip and we were a very small group which felt rather privileged. The choice of centres Corte and St Florent gives a taste of walking in mountainous country and on the coast – quite a contrast but both are fascinating and historic areas.
Annael Annael Mont Blanc Hiking HighlightsAn absolutely amazing experience! The tour was incredibly well-organized from start to finish. We stayed at a beautiful chalet with breathtaking, insane views of Mont Blanc.
Our guide, Adrian, was fantastic. He was always there to help with any question or situation, and his explanations of the routes we hiked were super clear and helpful. He was always available, incredibly patient, and brought such a fun energy to the group with his great sense of humor.
Also thanks to Julieta and Odran, the two chalet hosts. They took amazing care of us, cooked delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and were incredibly nice and welcoming throughout the whole trip. It was an amazing adventure.
Vivienne Morris Cycle Northern France: Brittany to NormandyVaried cycling terrain, canal paths, quiet country lanes, off road through trees, dirt tracks, relatively flat. Good hotels. Lovely food. Good bikes
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