France Holidays

From the iconic sights of Paris to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean, holidays in France bring together a mix of culture, cuisine, and landscapes. It's a country that invites you to pull up a chair at a pavement café and simply watch the world go by. Whether you're planning a romantic city break, a family trip to Disneyland Paris, or a relaxing beach holiday on the French Riviera, you'll find a corner of France that's perfect for you. With its world-class art, celebrated food and wine, and scenery that shifts from alpine peaks to rolling vineyards, it's a destination you can return to again and again.

Where to go on your holiday in France

France is a country of diverse regions, each with its own distinct character, cuisine, and charm. Deciding where to go is all part of the fun, whether you're drawn to historic coastlines or postcard-pretty countrysides.

French Riviera & Côte d'Azur

For glamour and sunshine, nothing compares to the French Riviera. Stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais in Nice, with its wide pebble beach, or discover the sandy coves of Antibes. The region is famed for its stylish resorts, including Cannes, which hosts the world-famous film festival each May, and the exclusive hangouts of Saint-Tropez. For a great day out, take a fifteen-minute boat trip from Cannes to St Marguerite Island to explore its quiet forests and historic fort.

Provence

Inland from the Riviera, Provence is a landscape of rolling lavender fields, olive groves, and hilltop villages. It's the France you see on postcards. Its heart is the vibrant port city of Marseille, a cultural melting pot where you can sample the region's signature dish, a flavourful fish stew called bouillabaisse. The region is also a gateway to smaller, characterful towns and impressive natural scenery.

Normandy & Brittany

Stretching along France's northern coast, the regions of Normandy and Brittany offer rugged coastlines, green countryside, and a deep sense of history. Normandy is home to the tidal island of Mont Saint-Michel, a medieval abbey that seems to rise from the sea. Brittany, its Celtic neighbour, is known for dramatic cliffs, ancient forests, and delicious crêpes.

Corsica

Known as the 'Island of Beauty', Corsica is a Mediterranean island of wild, mountainous landscapes and some of Europe's finest beaches. You can fly into cities like Calvi, with its colourful old town and huge marina, or explore the historic port of Bastia. From rugged hiking trails to secluded coves with clear water, it's an ideal destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors.

The Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is famous for its impressive châteaux. These grand castles, surrounded by manicured gardens and forests, offer a glimpse into the lives of French royalty and nobility. The region is also known for its world-famous vineyards and crisp white wines. Further south, the Dordogne region offers a landscape dotted with historic castles and prehistoric cave art.

Standout cities in France

While Paris is a global icon, France's other cities each have their own personalities and attractions well worth exploring. Lyon provides a more relaxed pace, with its historic hidden passageways – or traboules – and a reputation as France's gastronomic capital. In the south, Bordeaux is the elegant heart of wine country, while Montpellier has a youthful energy thanks to its large university population. For something completely different, head to Nantes in the west, where you can hitch a ride on a giant mechanical elephant and explore the old shipyards.

Famous French food and wine

French cuisine is about more than just fine dining. It's about the simple pleasure of a fresh croissant from a local bakery, a hearty bowl of cassoulet in a Toulouse bistro, or a shared platter of cheese and charcuterie. Each region has its specialities, and trying them is a key part of any trip. The country's wine is equally famous, with regions like Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne producing some of the most sought-after bottles in the world. When it comes to etiquette, a simple 'bonjour' upon entering a shop or café is always appreciated. Tipping isn't expected, as a service charge is included in the bill, but it's common to leave a few coins for good service.

Top things to see and do in France

France's landmarks are known the world over, and many are essential stops on any itinerary. Some of the most popular include:

• the Eiffel Tower and the art-filled halls of the Louvre in Paris
• the grand Palace of Versailles
• Disneyland Paris for a fun-filled family trip
• the medieval walled city of Carcassonne
• the island abbey of Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy

When is the best time for a France holiday?

Spring and autumn offer mild weather perfect for sightseeing in cities, while summer is ideal for a beach holiday on the Mediterranean coast. Keep in mind that many small, family-run businesses across France close for their annual holidays in August. Key public holidays include Bastille Day on 14 July, which is celebrated with fireworks and parades across the country. In winter, the Alsace region, particularly Strasbourg, comes alive with traditional Christmas markets, and Lyon hosts its popular Fête des Lumières – an impressive festival of light – in early December.

From its world-famous capital to its sun-soaked islands, France offers a holiday for every kind of traveller. You'll find something new to discover whether it's your first visit or your tenth.