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The Best of France: A Two Week Itinerary

France is a country that offers visitors incredible diversity. It is loved by so many and is one of the most visited countries in the world. But the majority of those people only visit Paris. This two week France itinerary aims to get you outside of Paris and exploring other equally incredible parts of the country.

My France two week itinerary covers key areas of France to give you balanced itinerary to follow taking in its physical beauty, culture, history and culinary delights. It brings together the best bits of France in two weeks so you can get a taste for this beautiful country and make the most of your precious vacation time.

If you follow this trip to a tee you’ll be driving close to 2,000 km so you’ll want a vehicle that is comfortable for both the driver and passengers, plus one that has plenty of space for your luggage (and the goodies you might pick up along the way!.

For all my car hire bookings I use and recommend Hertz . I’ve found they offer the most comparable prices, let you search and compare multiple vehicle types and they have a great customer service team who can help if you come into any unexpected troubles.

France Two Week Itinerary

Days 1 to 4 – Paris

Day 1 – Start off your two weeks in France by arriving in Paris. This itinerary assumes that you arrive in the morning giving you most of the day to start seeing the sights.

The City of Lights, Paris, is one of the most visited cities in the world and rightly so. It is dripping with amazing architecture, world class art and culture and mouth-watering food. Paris is a city for everyone and its highlights can easily be explored in just a few days.

What to See & Do in Paris

Eiffel Tower – The icon of Paris is the perfect place to start your visit. Admire the architecture of what was once the world’s tallest tower before being whisked to the top in an elevator to enjoy the most spectacular uninterrupted views of the city. Skip the queues and pre-booked your visit to the top of the Eiffel Tower here .

Arc Du Triomphe – Take a walk up the famous Champ Elysees to enjoy the approaching view of this imposing arch. Built to honour those who fought and died for France, check out the inner and outer surfaces of the Arc for the names of French war victories and generals inscribed in the stone. You can climb the steps to the top for nice views over Paris and down the avenues that run off the centre of the Arc. Avoid long queues with this pre-booked ticket to the top.

Notre Dame Cathedral – One of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture in the world, Notre Dame is famous for its incredible stained glass windows and for the gargoyles that guard the cathedral from above. Inside it is simply breathtaking and the view from the top allows you to get a closer look at those gargoyles, the cathedral’s roof and spires and over the city.

The Louvre – Home of the famous Mona Lisa, the world’s largest and most visited museum is spread across three wings with eight different departments and around 35,000 works of art and artifacts on display. One visit is most certainly not enough to take it all in so a little forward planning about what you want to see is a must. You might also want to nab yourself a timed entry ticket here to avoid the really long queues.

Montmartre & Sacre Coeur – For many hundreds of years the area of Montmartre has attracted artists from around the world. Today the area has a very bohemian vibe with tons of character and notorious nightlife. The most notable structure in the area is the lovely Sacre Coeur Basilica which holds services daily for locals and visitors. Make sure you enjoy the view from the area in front of the Basilica looking out over Paris. With so much interesting history in this area, a short tour with a local guide is a must!

Cruise the Seine –  Some of Paris’s best architecture and landmarks line the Seine River making a sightseeing cruise a must do (especially this evening illuminations cruise where you will see Paris sparkle!). My top tip is to hop aboard the Bateaux Mouches for a one hour cruise at night on an open top boat that will take you under all of the city’s famous bridges and past its famous sites.

Palace of Versailles – This grand chateau was once home to Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette and is simply spectacular inside and out. Grand rooms filled with priceless works of art, furniture and antiquities on the inside and sprawling perfectly manicured gardens on the outside make this a worthy half to full day trip from the centre of Paris. As with most popular Paris attractions, having a skip the line entry ticket is a must.

Enjoy the Gardens – Paris has some really stunning gardens that are a haven from the busy streets of the city. Stroll the length of the Jardin des Tuileries from the Louvre to the Place de la Concorde or enjoy the spectacular flower displays of the Jardin du Luxembourg, just to name two of the city’s best green spaces.

Where to Stay in Paris

Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located, highly rated and come with excellent facilities. You can also check out my whole post dedicated to places to stay in Paris here .

Budget – Hotel Marignan

Mid-Range – Hotel Le Relais des Halles

Luxury – Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris

Read More About Paris

30 Things to Do in Paris

The Best Tours in Paris for Sightseeing

The Best Day Trips from Paris

Days 5 to 6 – The Normandy Region

Drive:  Paris to Caen – approx. 2.5 hours. Leave Paris early to give yourself plenty of time to stop along the way.

Suggested Stop

Like Paris, Rouen is set on the River Seine and has a rich medieval history. In just a few hours you can easily check out the city’s Gothic Cathedral (a favourite subject for artist Monte), wander the medieval quarter and visit the site where Joan of Arc met her demise.

From its dramatic coastal landscape to its rolling green fertile hills and rich history, Normandy is one of France’s hidden gems. Visit to delve deeper into its Norman, Medieval and War Time history; taste the freshness of the regions orchids, seafood and cheese; and explore the dramatic yet charming coastal towns.

What to See & Do in Normandy

Arromanches – On the 6th of June 1944 during World War II, Allied troops stormed the beaches of Normandy beginning their victory on the Western Front. You can visit those beaches, including Arromanches, where you will see remnants of the ‘Mulberry’ harbour the troops built. Then head up to the cliff tops to the 360 Cinema to get just a small feel for what it would have been like for the troops.

American Cemetery at Colleville – Laid out over 70 hectares overlooking the beaches where the troops landed and the chalky cliffs of the Normandy coast is the largest American cemetery in the area. Start your visit in the Visitors Centre which details the mission. Then head outside to wander the 9,387 gravestones perfectly aligned on a majestic expanse of green lawn. At the end of every day you can watch the ceremony of the Lowering of the Colours to the sound of a military hymn. (Book a guided tour that includes the cemetery and other American D-Day sites.)

Bayeux Tapestry – Known to the French as La Tapisserie de la Reine Mathilde , this 230-foot long tapestry is one of the largest and most detailed in the world, and tells the story of the events leading up to the Norman invasion in 1066. While you’re in Bayeux the town itself is also worth a look.

Camembert – France’s most famous cheese, Camembert comes from the village of the same name right in the heart of Normandy. You can take a tour to see how it is made and taste this creamy brie-like cheese at the President farm located in the heart of Camembert.

Where to Stay in Normandy

Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located in the town of Caen, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.

Budget – B&B Hotel Caen Memorial

Mid-Range – Ibis Styles Caen Centre Gare

Luxury – Hotel Restaurant Spa Ivan Vautier

Days 7 to 8 – Loire Valley

Drive:  Caen to Tours – approx. 2.5 hours OR 4.5 hours with a detour to Mont St Michel. Leave Caen early to make the most of the day.

Suggested Detour

Pictures of Mont Saint-Michel are among some of the most iconic images of France. The town which is topped with a monastery is built on a rocky outcrop in the middle of a tidal flat and connected to the mainland by a causeway. Try to get there early to wander the steep winding streets up to the monastery without the crowds.

Famous for its abundance of chateau, The Loire Valley has to be one of the most beautiful regions of France. Explore the chateau, wander the sprawling gardens and orchids, taste the local produce and wine and just simply soak up the beauty of the landscape.

What to See & Do in the Loire Valley

Chateau Chambord – The biggest and most famous of the chateau in The Loire Valley, Chateau Chambord was built by King Francis I as a hunting lodge. Of course it has been upgraded and expanded considerably since then. It is one of the best examples of renaissance architecture in the world. A small number of the 440 odd rooms in the chateau are open to the public to explore. See this incredible building without the queues by booking here in advance.

Ainy-le-Vieil Chateau & Gardens – One of the many chateau in the region, what sets Ainy-le-Vieil apart from the rest is the incredible gardens which are split into a series of rooms each with a different theme. The chateau itself has been in the same family since 1467 and you can explore the interiors to check out some of the personal mementos left behind by past family members.

Cycle along the Loire River – The Loire Valley is relatively flat making it the perfect place to hire a bike or take a bike tour ( like this one !). There are bike hire places in most villages along the river and the path is well sign posted. Whether its just a short ride or a full day, you’ll see plenty of beautiful chateau and have the opportunity to stop by plenty of quaint little villages on your ride.

Bourges Cathedral – One of the most remarkable Gothic cathedrals in France, the Bourges is located in the town of the same name and dates back to the 12th century. Modelled on Notre-Dame in Paris, the cathedrals biggest draw card is its spectacular stained glass windows intricately depicting biblical stories.

Explore the Vineyards – The Loire Valley has some of the best wine-making soil in France and some of France’s most well-known wine is produced in the region. You can explore the vineyards on your own in the car, hire a bike or take a tour like this one . Maps are available from local tourist offices making it easy to navigate between the vineyards.

Where to Stay in the Loire Valley

Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located in the town of Tours, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.

Budget – Hotel Italia

Mid-Range – Best Western Plus l’Artist Hotel

Luxury – Chateau Belmont Tours

Days 9 to 10 – Lyon

Drive:  Tours to Lyon – approx. 4.5 hours. Leave Tours early to make the most of the day and allow time for plenty of scenic stops along the way.

This is my personal favourite place on this France 14 day itinerary. If the main reasons you’re visiting France are for the culture and the food then you’ll love Lyon. France’s third largest city is home to interesting museums, cultural events year round and food offerings for those with an adventurous palate. 

What to See & Do in Lyon

Explore the Vieux – Lyon’s Vieux (old town) is a great place to start your visit. Take a wander around the cobblestone streets through narrow passageways past delicatessens, artisan stores and sidewalk cafes. Keep your eye out for an old traboule which are passageways used in medieval times by the silk industry, some of which have been recently renovated. A guided tour, like this one , will help you find all those hidden spots.

Dine in a Bouchon – These small restaurants serve the most traditional of Lyonnaise cuisine and are best suited to those looking to try something a little different. Dishes on the menu might include ingredients such as tripe, bone marrow or pork offal.

Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourviere – Perched high above the old town, this impressive white church dominates Lyon’s skyline and offers great views over Lyon from the promenade out the front. You can walk up the steep steps to get there or take the funicular for a few euros to save your legs. Nicknamed “the upside down elephant” because of its outside shape, inside its interior is quite pretty with lots of ornate features.

Roman Amphitheatre  – Right next to Notre Dame is one of the best preserved Roman amphitheatres outside of Rome. The theatre holds up to 10,000 people and is used by the city to host many festivals and events throughout the year. When there’s nothing going on, visitors are free to wander around the theatre and picture themselves enjoying a concert in roman times.

Museum of Fine Arts – This museum has one of the broadest collections of fine art pieces of any museum in the world with their collection ranging from ancient Egyptian antiquities to modern art pieces from the last few decades. The Museum of Fine Arts also holds pieces that are among the finest in all of Europe. For art lovers, this place is heaven and not to be missed.

Hire a bike – Lyon is laid out on relatively flat ground and running right through the city are two rivers. This makes Lyon a great place to hire a bike and explore. There are Velo bike stations all over the city where you can pick up a bike any time of day for a few hours or a full day and explore along the rivers or around the city. It’s a great way to cover a lot of ground in less time.

Take a River Cruise – A great way to see most cities in Europe is on a river cruise and Lyon is no different. This one hour Saone River cruise will give you a new perspective of the most famous landmarks of Lyon and its interesting and unique architecture.

Where to Stay in Lyon

Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.

Budget – Hotel Saint Vincent

Mid-Range – Hotel ParkSaone

Luxury – Villa Maia

Days 11 to 12 – Aix-en-Provence

Drive:  Lyon to Aix-en-Provence – approx. 3.5 hours. Leave Lyon early to allow time for plenty of stops along the way.

Allow plenty of time to stop at two French gems. First make stop at the Pont du Gard for a stroll out to this ancient roman aqueduct. Then head into Avignon to check out the Palais des Papes, walk over the Pont Saint-Benezet, wander the cobblestone streets browsing the boutiques and relax in one of the sidewalk cafes.

Food to the people of Provence is everything, so foodies will love exploring this region on this 2 week France itinerary. From the markets to the cafes and rolling fields of produce, Provence is a region for the senses. Its naturally beautiful landscapes and pretty little towns have been attracting artists for hundreds of years who come for the light and create masterpieces that can now be found in some of the best galleries all over the world.

What to See & Do in Provence

Aix-en-Provence – Basing yourself in Aix-en-Provence will give you plenty of time to explore this picture perfect town. Dine in one of the many fantastic restaurants that use only the best local produce. Wander the cobblestone lanes to see exactly why artists like Cezanne were so inspired by this town. And browse through the chic boutiques scattered through the town.

Arles Amphitheatre  – During the summer months this ancient roman amphitheatre comes alive with plays and concerts. For the rest of the year it is open to visitors. Take a walk around and picture yourself back in the roman days watching sporting events, wild-animal hunts, executions of prisoners, and gladiatorial contests.

Marseille’s Vieux Port – The Old Port of Marseille is the beating heart of the city and the Provence region. It is the place where locals and visitors go to relax, eat, drink, shop and just generally enjoy life. Wander through the shops and markets, have a drink or a bite to eat in one of the restaurants, bars and cafes or just stroll along the harbour people watching.

Saint-Remy-de-Provence – This quaint, traditional Provençal village is rather sleepy these days but back in Roman times it was a thriving Roman settlement, the ruins of which can still be seen today. However, this isn’t the town’s only claim to fame. It was also where Van Gogh was housed while being treated for his many psychiatric problems. It’s a lovely town to explore on foot and enjoy a break at one of the many cafes.

Moustiers Sainte-Marie – Hiding up the Gorges du Verdon is the town of Moustiers Sainte-Marie. The drive to this beautiful medieval town is on a long and winding road up the gorge with some spectacular scenery. The village itself is charming and well worth the effort to get there as it seems like time has stood still of hundreds of years.

Digne les Bains Lavender Fields – Take a drive through the rolling hills of Digne les Bains to see field after field of lavender mass planted. Stop by one of the road-side stalls or country shops to buy all sorts of lavender products from soaps and fragrance sprays to honey and other food products. The lavender blooms from June to August and the locals celebrate with a festival over a few days in August at harvest time.

Where to Stay in Provence

Budget – Hotel Le Mozart

Mid-Range – Hotel du Globe

Luxury – Villa Gallici Hotel & Spa

Days 13 to 14 – French Riviera

Drive:  Aix-en-Provence to Nice – approx. 5 hours if you take the slower coast road the whole way or 3 hours if you take the inland faster route. Leave Nimes early to make the most of the day and allow time for plenty of scenic stops along the way.

Optional Detour

To get to Nice you can take the quick route shown in the map above. Or if you have a bit more time you can detour the French Riviera coast stopping in Saint Topez, Cannes and Antibes .

A France 2 week itinerary would not be complete without a visit to the heart of the French Riviera. Nice is everything you have heard it is and so much more. Nice is a mixture of grit and opulence drenched with lots of sunshine. While the beaches and corso are the places to be and be seen, it’s the winding cobblestone lanes of the old town you’ll want to get lost in and find your own little piece of Nice.

What to See & Do in the French Riviera

Soak up with sun on the beach – While the beaches of Nice aren’t like the white sandy beaches most will be used to, the warm Mediterranean seas are more than enough to get most people over having to walk on pebbles. Whether you hire a sun lounger and umbrella for a day or brave it on the pebbles, a day by the water in Nice is an absolutely must!

Stroll the Promenade des Anglais – This palm fringed promenade runs for five miles along the beach at Nice and is the place to be and be seen when the sun is shining. You could easily spend a few hours strolling up and down the promenade watching the people enjoy life and this beautiful part of the world.

Nice Old Town – Once you’ve had your time in the sun, head to the old town to wander around the colourful winding cobblestone lanes. It’s a labyrinth you could easily get lost in passing but tiny local cafes, green grocers and artisan stores. There’s usually a market going on too which gives you a great glimpse into the lives of the locals.

Monaco – The nicest time of day to enjoy Monaco is just before the sun sets. You can take a bus or train from Nice (20-30 minutes) in the late afternoon to explore Le Palais des Princes de Monaco then watch the sun set over the billions of dollar’s worth of yachts in the marina. Finishing off the night in the Monte Carlo Casino or just outside in one of the sidewalk cafes checking out some of the world’s most expensive cars and the wealthy people who own them. This evening tour is also a great way to experience the very best of Monaco on short trip from Nice.

Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art – Get your final art fix of the trip at this museum famous for its Pop Art collection. The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art has a large collection of permanent exhibitions which are free to visit as well as ever-changing temporary exhibitions for a small fee. The building itself is also a work of art and worth a look, as is the view from the roof.

Where to Stay in Nice

Budget – Hotel des Dames

Mid-Range – Ibis Styles Nice Centre Gare

Luxury – Hotel Negresco

Read More About Nice

Things to Do in Nice

Got More Time?

If you have more than 2 weeks in France you have a few options to extend you’re time there.

You can choose to add some additional days at the places mentioned above. This will give you more quality time to spend in each place and will allow you to see more and spend a bit more time relaxing.

Alternatively you can add another destination or two to your journey. Just a few of these options include the Bordeaux wine region, the French Alps (I love the mountain town of Annecy), Dijon for the cuisine or Strasbourg on the German border to see how the cultures mix together to form a truly unique city.

Your can read more about some of these additional places to visit in France here .

Short on Time?

Check out my 10 day France Itinerary to see the best of this amazing country if you have a little less than two weeks to spend in France.

Over to you!

What is your favourite part of this France vacation itinerary or where are you most keen to visit?

Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.

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27 thoughts on “The Best of France: A Two Week Itinerary”

This looks like an incredible itinerary! I’ve only been to Paris and for not that long, would love to go back and do it properly!

Thanks Madi!

Hello, is there another way to follow this itinerary if we won’t drive on our own? Can we go there by train?:) thanks

Hi Dez, You could absolutely do parts of this itinerary by train. Check out https://www.bahn.com/i/view/index.shtml for timetables. Or send me an email and I can see what I can do. Cheers Jen

When you end in Monaco, what are the options to get back to the US? Is there an airport so you can fly back to Paris then US?

Hi There, There is an airport in Nice that you can fly direct to the US from depending on the city you are going to. Otherwise you can fly via most major European cities from Nice to the US. Hope this help.s Cheers Jen

I am coming with my wife and 6 year old. We would like to tour the above (possibly shorter in Paris). Outside Paris – 05 Jun (from Paris) to 13 Jun (Nice). Is there any tour groups we can join for this itinerary or it can be done easily on our own ? Any reasonable recommendation for tour organizers for a similar tour ?

Hi Chidam, I don’t know of any tours that run for this short amount of time in France sorry. However, this trip would easily be done on your own if you hire a car. With your shorter amount of time, you would need to skip a few places and spend a few longer driving days. Cheers Jen

Hi The two week itinerary is very helpful but can you tell me if you have a valid indian licence can we drive in France and if not then how can we do this trip – suggest an alternative say bus train or cycle

Hi Surekha, I am unsure about licence validity for India I am afraid. Might be best to speak with your local licence registery to find that one out. A bus could definitely replace this whole itinerary, a train may be more tricky but not impossible. Cycling would be big distances and you would need a lot more time to cover the long distances. Cheers Jen

Hello I like you article as we are all in great need to discover new adventure in unique destination such as France, The best thing about your article that it is well organised in term of using just few lines to tell us more about France and about thing to do there, places to visit and lifestyle , Thanks for your talented lines, Your professional photos and the great destination you selected

Thanks Reem.

Hi Jen, I am planning to do this itinerary this Oct’18 last weekend upto early week of Nov’18. Is this doable? Should I be worried about any Snowfall during the drive?

HI Thejas, All you need is 2 weeks to do this itinerary. If you have less time, you can remove one or two places to make it more achievable. More time, you can add extra time in some places or some of the other suggested stops at the end. It is flexible. At that time of the year it is unlikely to snow but if it does the areas you are travelling to are well equipped to help you if it does. Have a great trip! Cheers Jen

Thank you for this wonderful article. I have pinned it for when I have more time to visit the southern area. This dec we will be in paris for 5 night and as part of that, I have been trying to find vineyards that we can visit as a day trip or spend a night in town. however, I noticed some vineyards are closed in december time – do you have any experience with that?

Thanks Anish for the kind words. I hope you enjoy Paris. I haven’t had any experience visiting Paris at that time of year i’m sorry Maybe you could find a tour that would be able to help you get to the ones that are open.

I love your itennery and descriptions! We are coming to France 4June for 7-8 days. We think 2-3 days in Paris then we want to immerse in smaller villages either by car or train. Can you recommend the best route given our limited time please Thanks, Susan

We have 8 days outside Paris and would like to visit the ff: 1. Strasbourg 2. Loire Valley 3. Bordeaux 4. Mont Saint Michel

I think its impossible to visit all 4, in 8 days. Which would you suggest we prioritise for this trip and how would you arrange them? We intend to take the train from one city to another.

Thanks so much in advance!

Hi Joanna, GOod to hear you are getting out of Paris. France is so much more than Paris. If you can squeeze in more than 8 days you will have more time to enjoy this. Otherwise suggest dropping one to give you more time to spend in each place and there is also quite a distance between some of them so you will loose whole days travelling. Suggest dropping Bordeaux only because it is so far south. All the other are up north. Order I’d suggest if you dropped Bordeaux would be Mont Saint Michel, Loire Valley and Strasbourg. Have a great trip!

Thanks for sharing your itinerary. We are planning a trip to france in Aug, and yours is pretty much a blue print for us. Having said that, i understand you drove through all these places, and i won’t be having that option. My itinerary will be pretty close to yours except that i will be using public transport to travel between cities. I know that can be more time consuming, but i don’t have any other option. With this limitation, i feel it’s better for me to stay for more nights in a place to avoid carrying luggage. I have divided your itinerary with 4 places to stay. Paris, tours, lyon and Nice. Do you think they are good choices as to embark my journey to visit near by places? These are the places we will be staying.

Dear Jen, My family of 6 with 4 kids ages 17-7 will be traveling to France Oct. 13-Oct. 30. Are there any adjustments you would make to this schedule for fall weather? Also, is Disney Paris worth a day of the trip? Any idea if the train for a family of 6 would be cheaper than renting a large vehicle? I have been so stressed about planning our trip and your schedule is a huge blessing! Thank you!

Hi Amy, Glad to hear this has been helpful! This itinerary is good for travel all year round, so no adjustments required. I have been to Disney Paris as an adult and to be honest found it a bit boring in comparison to Disney in the US. Having said that, I think the kids would love it, it is Disney after all and made for kids. For the car vs train, I would weigh up the cost between the two but also take into account fuel and parking costs. Most likely you will find the train will be cheaper when you factor everything in. Have a fantastic trip!

Hi. Thanks for the info, this is wonderful. I have 14 days of actual visit time and will be doing Paris and Saint Michel. I’ll probably do some of the loire valley, but rather than Nice, Cannes, etc, I’d like to do the french alps. I have to be back in Paris on day 15. Ideas for the Alps?

Hi Jonathan, Thanks your message. I can suggest Annecy as a beautiful village at the foothills of the Alps. It has enchanting canals, great atmosphere and incredible local food.. Hope this helps and enjoy your trip.

I like your travel plan, but will stop in Angers along the way because I went to school there in 1986-1987. I want to visit the university (l’université Catholique de l’Ouest) where I studied and visit some of my host families. Do you have recommendations for hotels? I haven’t been back to France since and it’s been thirty-six years.

Hi Mari, Glad I could help with the itinerary. Sounds like it will be a very nostalgic trip for you. Let me know what type of accommodation and/or per night budget and I will get you some recommendations. Cheers Jen

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France is one of my personal favourite countries.  To help you prepare for your France holiday, you can read our  2 week France road trip itinerary  to help you plan your ideal trip. France is great for either couples, friends or for families.  You can read all our best posts in this France travel blog section.

France with kids

France is an easy  European country to travel with kids. The country is safe and convenient to travel around.  You can easily rent your own car, together with a child seat in order to travel around on your own schedule.  A lot of the cities and towns are fairly flat, making it easy to manoeuvre a stroller around.

Many of the best attractions in France are outdoors which can make things much easier for travelling families.

There are also some great family-focused attractions and theme parks that you can visit.  We highly recommend you dedicate a day to take your kids to Disneyland Paris & Walt Disney Studios Park .

There is a wide range of gorgeous family-oriented hotels in France; some of which offer kids club and/or free kid-stay deals. Click here to see our guide on the best family hotels in Paris .

You can use our  Paris baby travel guide to help you prepare for your trip to Paris with your baby, or hop right into our France with a baby guide to get some handy info for your holiday.

France Travel Guides

You can read our guides on what to do in France below:

• Annecy Travel Blog Post
• Honfleur Travel Blog Post
• Nice Travel Blog Post
• Colmar Travel Blog Post
• Chateau de Chambord Travel Guide
• Chateau de Chenonceau Travel Guide
• Chateau Chaumont Travel Guide
• Best Loire Valley Castles
• Best Castles to Visit in France
• Best Villages to Visit in Alsace

Plan Your Trip to France

Accommodation in France:  We always start our accommodation research with  Hotelscombined.   This site makes it super easy to compare accommodation across various booking engines so that you can simply pick the best price for the accommodation of your choice. We also often book through sites such as Airbnb, especially when we travel in Europe as it allows for massive savings on accommodation.   Click to grab a coupon for your first stay !

Flights to France:  We personally book our flights on  Cheapo Air , we find that they are often the cheapest (even in comparison to  Skyscanner ).   Click to check on prices for your flights .

Car Rental in France:  The best car rental company in Europe is Auto Europe.   Auto Europe  is a car rental booking service that quickly compares car rental prices across all the major brands like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar.   Click to see prices for car rentals .

If you want to travel long-term to different countries in Europe? Check out this post on the 10 most beuatiful countries in Europe for long-term travel !

France Travel Videos

We have loads of fun videos of our travels of France on our YouTube channel.

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France Travel Guide

France is a beguiling place, bustling and cosmopolitan on one hand, calm and contemplative on the other. If you’re into fine dining, high-adrenaline sports, pristine beaches or historical masterpieces, you’ll find them all  in your holidays in  France . And, it’s guaranteed to be charmingly, quintessentially, uniquely  French. 

One of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, there are countless reasons why so many people love visiting this diverse country. Along with the above, France is enjoyed and well-known for its cuisine and wine – freshly baked bread, delectable coq au vin, scallops cooked in butter and copious glasses of sauvignon blanc, it sounds heavenly, doesn’t it?

Our France travel guide is unlike any you’ll find online, we don’t mimic, sugar-coat or even skim over the important details. If you’re looking for the holy grail of information, then we’ve made sure you can access it all in one place. Get to grips with the do’s and don’ts in French etiquette, learn the key differences between Northern France, Central France and the South of France, discover the best times to visit and heaps more.

– THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU GO TO FRANCE –

So you think you know France and the French? But before you book your   villas in France  it’s equally as important to be clued up on the essentials. Do you know the country code? Know what to do in a medical emergency or how to get around? Take a cpr training in Brampton , you don’t need to figure this all out on your own, we’ve got the lowdown below!

Getting organised

Hands up if you’re a frantic traveller? Travelling can be exciting, daunting and nerve-wracking all at the same time. Throw children into the mix and you need to make sure everyone is prepared for a tiring day ahead. Or, maybe you’re the opposite – great at keeping yourself steady with all your documents to hand. If you need a little assistance, Tripit is a great app that organises your flights, taxis and check-in info for you. And restless travellers will benefit from  Calm , tried and tested by the Oliver’s Travels team – this handy app will help you unwind in no time.

The euro is used as the currency and is legal tender, having replaced the French Franc. It’s always best to order euros and pick up in advance. Credit cards are widely accepted but check with your bank to make sure it’s 0% commission. ATMS are generally a better rate than a currency exchange.

Staying connected

The country code for dialling in France is +33, and to dial a UK number you’ll need +44. Buying a roaming package from your mobile provider is always a good idea, or apps like Viber and Whatsapp use wifi to make calls and send messages to friends and family, keeping costs down.

Staying savvy

Tipping in France is a complicated business and there’s no hard and fast rule. In general, round your drink bills up by any small change, and just leave a couple of euros after a meal. Museum and tour guides will expect about 10%, and cab drivers around 5-10%. To make things simpler, apps like Tipping Guide help to decipher how much is appropriate and Tip N Split will take care of the calculating for you.

Finding your way

A new country, a new map – but rest assured you’re able to download offline maps from Google straight to your smartphone. It’s easy to feel a little out of your depth when you visit a new country for the first time, but after a few days you’ll easily pick up your bearings. To find a good spot to eat close by, FourSquare uses your location to recommend user-reviews restaurants in your direct vicinity.

Safety first

Safety in France is common sense really. Keep your wits about you in big cities, and keep valuables out of sight and off the table when you sit down at street cafes.

Town in the South of France – Oliver’s Travels

Make sure everyone in your party has a European Health Insurance Card . This will entitle you to access state-provided healthcare for free or at a reduced rate. It also covers you for existing medical conditions or routine maternity care (as long as you’re not heading to France especially to give birth!).

Just in case: The main 999 equivalent number for emergencies in France is 112. For minor problems, pharmacists are qualified to give first aid, so that’s good to know! If you need to see a doctor, every town and village has un médecin de garde (local doctor) for colds and small injuries. Other good numbers to know are the house-call doctor service, SOS Médecins (01-47-07-77-77) and SOS Dentistes (01-43-37-51-00). 

Children are welcome everywhere in France, with restaurants routinely offering children’s menus or half-portions of adult mains. It is worth noting that most restaurants don’t open for dinner until around 8.30pm, so younger family members may be better suited to a café or bistro, which generally serve food continuously. There’s a range of French villas with kid-friendly activities, and even winery tours can be turned into fun bike ride excursions for the whole family to enjoy!   Travelling with kids

– essential french phrases –.

As with all languages, learning them can be tricky. Regardless, it’s better to visit any country with a few basic phrases – the locals will appreciate the effort even it’s a nightmare to grasp. The language of love is a bumpy road, and while we hope you don’t make any language blunders, here are the  10 mistakes you should avoid making .

Now you know what not to say, it’s time to learn the top must know phrases. Remember a little goes a long way. If you can’t remember them all, you can also download a PDF phrasebook to have on your phone at all times. 

– FRENCH ETIQUETTE –

• Make an effort to speak to the locals in French. Even if you don’t speak the language well, or at all – the aim is to do your best. This will show that you’re making an effort and will start a pleasant exchange. The best thing to do is learn a couple of key phrases before you go.
• Never talk about money. It’s in very bad taste.
• Don’t assume that the French all greet each other with a kiss on each cheek straight away. This is for familiar acquaintances only, so go for a handshake at first and save the pucker ups for your pals.
• Snaps is the name of the game, the name of the game is snaps. But, save that for inside your villa. Snapping your fingers in France is considered rude .
• Lunch is between 12 and 2 , and not a minute less. Keep conversation away from business, the French are of the opinion that there’s more to life than work.
• No matter how much garlicky food you had at lunch, you’ll need to leave the chewing gum for later. Chewing gum in public is a no-no in France .
• In French, ‘cheers’, is ‘ santé’ . This literally means that you are wishing your table mates good health. Make sure you make eye contact as you clink glasses.
• Even if you can’t finish your dinner, and would love it as a midnight snack – never ask for a doggy bag for your leftovers .
• Always serve wine to your companions before serving yourself .

NORTHERN FRANCE GUIDE

The pastures, orchards, forests and farmland of Northern France are rolling and peaceful. The calming landscape makes for a relaxing road trip, hike or biking trip with regular stops at the wonderfully pretty villages, and producers of fine wines, cider and cheeses. Of course, it would be impossible to explore Champagne without sampling some of their infamous bubbles! The coastline, on the other hand, can be very dramatic with the cliffs of the Cap de la Hague contrasting sharply with the golden seaside resorts of Brittany and the sweeping expanses of Normandy’s historic D-Day beaches. And make sure you have a read of our Top 5 Places to visit in Northern France to get some ideas of where to tick off your list.

– EXPLORE –

– BEST TIME TO VISIT NORTHERN FRANCE –

Annual events not to miss.

• Festival Interceltique  is a ten days festival in Lorient, Brittany, which attracts over 700,000 people each year. The festival takes place every August and celebrates the best of the Celtic music from around the world.
• For history buffs, Normandy plays host to the Fêtes Médiévales de Bayeux in June and July and the D-Day commemorations in May and June.
• Held every summer, the Route du Champagne en fête is a celebration of all things sparkling. Grab your champagne passport and taste them all over the weekend.

Best time to catch

• Apple harvesting in Normandy: Catch the cream of the crop throughout September and October.
• Brittany’s famous beaches: Being in the north, Brittany’s climate is a little warmer than the UK, but not much. Stick to high summer to soak up the sun from June to August.

Rainiest month in the North of France

The rainfall varies dramatically in the North of France. For Brittany, avoid December as you can expect 62mm of rain, and October in Normandy can bring a soggy 75mm. In Champagne, June is the rainiest month, often getting over 70mm a day.

Hottest months

Across the board, July is the time to visit Northern France for the hottest temperatures, with an average of around 18˚C .

Busiest season

July and August are the busiest times for tourists, but the season runs from May until October.

Honfleur – Northern France

– NORTHERN FRANCE: TRANSPORT TIPS –

Travelling through Northern France can be hit and miss. As a rule of thumb, it’s always best to rent a car – yes, it can work out a little more expensive but you’ll be thankful in the long run; you can see the sights at your own leisure and you don’t have to worry about the faff of transport. However, not everyone can rely on a car so here is a quick breakdown of the need-to-knows.

Brittany transport: The Brittany transport links are pretty decent, an extensive coach and bus network allows you to travel from town without the need of a car. Alternatively, you can discover the four corners of Brittany by train, boat and even by bicycle.

Normandy transport: Can be very tricky to get around without a car, most visitors to Normandy bring their own car or hire one on arrival. Be sure to arm yourself with a good road map (not one of those flimsy freebies).

Champagne transport: Train travel in Champagne is limited to the major towns, which are linked by the SNCF’s  TER  system. The main station is in Reims, which links Champagne to the rest of the country. But again, the most flexible way to get around is by car.

– NORTHERN FRANCE: MUST SEE CITIES AND TOWNS –

There’s an abundance to explore in Northern France, sure you have the typical tourist sights, but even better than that – really discover the quirky towns and villages that make these iconic cities in Northern France so special. There may be some you recognise, others you don’t, but we’ve picked our favourite cities, towns and villages we know you’ll love. Each has something unique and different from the other. So, whether you want to see the best cathedrals, beaches or culture, we’ve selected the very best.

Must see Cities in Northern France

• Rennes, Brittany:   The capital, best known for its medieval half-timbered houses and grand Rennes Cathedral.
• Quimper, Brittany: Medieval city centre and imposing architecture, leafy riverbanks and a twin-spired gothic cathedral.
• Reims, Champagne: Unofficial capital of the champagne growing region, home to famous champagne houses and fantastic gothic cathedral.
• Rouen, Normandy: Gorgeous city spanning the River Seine, cobbled pedestrian centre and Monet painted the cathedral!
• Saint-Malo, Brittany:  The ancient walled city on the coast, tour the walls for incredible sea views and watch the labyrinth of cobbled streets below.

Must visit Towns and Villages in Northern France

• Ploumanac’h, Brittany: Pink granite beaches and a park with striking rock formations separating the town from the sea.
• Essoyes, Champagne: Quaint village which was the birthplace and inspiration of Pierre-August Renoir.
• Troyes, Champagne: Ancient-turned-trendy town with colourful half-timbered houses, incredible modern art museum.
• Giverny, Normandy: Small village home to Claude Monet and his infamous water garden.
• Honfleur, Normandy: Quirky seaside town with a quaint old harbour, popular with impressionist painters.

– NORTHERN FRANCE: UNSPOILED NATURAL BEAUTY –

It’s easy to see France as city trips to Paris or blow-out holidays to the French Riviera but Northern France is utterly rich in historical heritage and natural wonders. Just the sheer abundance of France’s unspoilt beauty is enough to keep outdoor lovers happy, exploring for a lifetime. The beaches are simply breathtaking and the views are almost too good to be true. There is so much to explore in the region, but we’ve listed our must-sees, that stand out amongst anything else.

• Cliffs of Étretat, Normandy : These incredible white cliffs run along Normandy’s historic coastline between Dieppe and Étretat, climb to the top for views of arching rock formations.
• Côte de Granit Rose, Brittany: Breathtaking pink granite formations and sand beaches.
• Vineyards and Valleys, Champagne: Not officially 100% natural, but striking and absolutely gorgeous to see.
• Les Îles Chaussey, Normandy: The Chaussey archipelago is full of deserted beaches, 16th-century castles and wildlife.

– NORTHERN FRANCE: FOOD AND WINE –

Northern France is celebrated for its hearty food, not surprisingly along the coast for the wonderfully fresh fish dishes. And it may come as a shock, but the Northern region produces a lot more beer and cider, as opposed to wine. Often many menus will be dotted with beer infused menus, and locals will often take their meal with a refreshing pint or larger. Below are some of our favourite dishes on offer in Northern France!

Fish: Brittany is home to some of the best seafood, try the moules frites and oysters.

Meat: Andouillette de Troyes are an unusual but delicious sausage delicacy.

Veggie:  You cannot visit this region of France without sampling camembert and brie – daily, if possible.

Dessert:  Local apples are grown in abundance in Northern France, making this the perfect location for the best Tarte aux Pommes.

Drinks:  On account of all the apples, and the copious infamous vines be sure to sip on some cider and champagne.

Cheese platter

– NORTHERN FRANCE: UNIQUE EXPERIENCES –

• See the islands dotted along the coastline of Brittany and Normandy. You’ll find yourself among dramatic scenery, cute coastal communities with ancient customs, medieval fortresses and abundant wildlife. The Îles Chausey are a rocky collection of islets off Normandy’s coast and can be explored best by boat. The Gulf of Morbihan is a more expansive collection of larger islands in Brittany; Île aux Moines and Île d’Arz should definitely be on your stop-offs list.
• Mont Saint Michel is a tiny island near Avranches in Normandy. It lies in the sand flats a kilometre off the coast, so only sometimes surrounded by water. The island itself is almost entirely occupied by the impressive abbey and is one of France’s most visited and most photographed attractions.

CENTRAL FRANCE GUIDE

Central France is home to swathes upon swathes of vineyards, some gorgeous undiscovered stretches of coastline and the infamously beautiful chateaux. Visit the Loire Valley to experience serious history, famous wines and river; see the blueberry-covered hillsides and medieval villages and vintages of Burgundy; and find stunning sunny coastline and watery adventures in Vendée & Charente.

– BEST TIME TO VISIT CENTRAL FRANCE –

• The   International Garden Festival  in Loire Valley runs throughout the summer in the grounds of Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire.
• Hospices de Beaune Wine Festival , in Burgundy, is a three-day festival in November that celebrates everything there is to love about the grape.
• The   Blues Passion Festival , Vendée & Charente, runs for several days in July, the streets of Cognac are thronged with blues and jazz fans from all over France for this popular festival.
• Grape harvesting: September and October. 
• Sound and Light shows at the chateaux: Summer. 

Rainiest month

October with an average of 20 rainy days. 

Hottest months 

July and August temperatures hit around 26˚C. Though this is nothing compared to the South of France, the heat will feel much more comfortable here.

Busiest months

Visiting between June and September can often be tourist-heavy’, so, we recommend planning a trip between April and May. Everything will be less crowded, the days will appear much longer with extra daylight hours, and temperatures will be steady at 20˚C.

Vineyards near Fuisse – Burgundy

– CENTRAL FRANCE: TRANSPORT TIPS –

Moving between Central France is much easier than Northern France. Transport links run much smoother, catching trains are hassle free and you can even move around on bicycle to see your beautiful surroundings up close. As always, we’ve broken down the cities with the best transport links.

Loire Valley transport:  An invaluable train line runs alongside the Loire River from Orléans to Angers, with options to connect to key valley destinations such as Blois, Tours and Saumur.

Burgundy transport: Driving is the best way to see the most of Burgandy in the least amount of time. But if you don’t fancy driving you can rely on the regional railway network TER, so you can travel between places such as Dijon, Autun and Beaune with ease. Driving is the best way to see the most of Burgundy in the least amount of time.

Vendée & Charente transport:  Cycling is one of the best ways to explore here, both regions have an extensive network of bike lanes.  However, it’s worth knowing that public transport services are generally limited.

– CENTRAL FRANCE: MUST VISIT CITIES, TOWNS AND VILLAGES –

Just like light and shade, Central France is a fusion of the best of both worlds. You’ll feel the buzz in the capital cities, but feel at peace in some of the smaller towns – and it’s honestly pretty blissful. Not sure where to start? We’ve broken down our favourite cities, towns and villages to be a helping hand.

Must see Cities in Central France :

• Dijon, Burgundy:  This historical capital is bursting with vineyards, mustard (of course) and incredible buildings.
• Nantes, Loire Valley: Vibrant and young metropolis often rewarded for its top-quality of life – a city where art has literally been integrated in all possible aspects.
• La Rochelle, Vendée & Charente:  Trendy coastal city, 17 th century arches over cobbled paths, modern marina.

Must visit Towns and Villages in Central France :

• Vézelay, Burgundy:  Beautiful hilltop abbey, twisting alleyways and great views from the ramparts.
• Flavigny-sur-Ozerain, Burgundy:  One of the prettiest villages in France, famous for its sweets.
• Chartres, Loire Valley:  Amazing Notre-Dame cathedral and medieval town with a gothic vibe.
• Montresor, Loire Valley:  One of most beautiful villages in France, legendary folktale about a lizard, pretty square with half-timbered houses.
• Tours, Loire Valley:  New meets old architecture, cultural centre, funky shopping and restaurants.
• Ile de Ré, Vendée & Charente:  Small island off the west coast, golden sand and cycle paths, picturesque harbours.
• Apremont, Vendée & Charente:  Cliffside village, panoramic views, popular ruined castle, lakeside beaches.

– CENTRAL FRANCE: UNSPOILED NATURAL BEAUTY –

You can’t help but be seduced by the gorgeous green landscapes and massive volcanic chains. Those who look for action during their villa holidays will love Central France. Earthy cycle routes, natural parks and ‘Green Venice’ – find our best natural picks below.

• Canal de Bourgogne, Burgundy:  A haven for cyclists, walkers and boaters this canal snakes its way through the entire region of picturesque Burgundy.
• La Brenne Natural Park: Often called ‘the land of a thousand lakes’, the Brenne Natural Park is a perfect for walks, fishing, canoeing and stunning beauty.
• Marais Poitevin, Vendée & Charente:  Snake your way along the water paths in the locally known wetlands of ‘Green Venice’.
• Ile d’Yeu, Vendée & Charente: This 10km long island is a blue, sandy, life-affirming vision.

– CENTRAL FRANCE: FOOD AND WINE –

The cuisine is regarded as ‘traditionally French’, rich in flavour with plenty of butter, cream and other high-calorific deliciousness. And how could we forget the cheese, Central France produces incredible cheeses, specialities include Cantal and Roquefort. The wines are to die for in Central France, especially the burgundy wines, which, believe it or not only from 2% of the wines produced in France!

Fish: The seafood from Vendée & Charente is fresh, bountiful and delicious.

Meat: Central France is home to Boeuf Bourguignon, a must.

Veggie: Prepare for a taste sensation with Dijon mustard and chestnuts both produced in the area.

Dessert: Tarte Tatin is a delicious, pan-baked upside-down caramelised apple tart.

Drinks: Cognac and local Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Be sure to taste the best of the best in Burgundy . 

Boeuf Bourguignon

– CENTRAL FRANCE: MUST DO EXPERIENCES –

• Visit some Troglodyte homes – these can be found all over central France and are sort of the ‘anti-chateau’. They are built directly into the rock, and can usually be spotted by the balconies and windows dotted along a cliff face. The history of these striking cave-dwellings is fascinating and well worth a visit. Some well-known ones are at Meschers-sur-Gironde in Vendée & Charente and Troo in the Loire Valley, but you can find them dotted all over central France, look out for the signs to them from any main roads near cliffs.
• Cross the Passage du Gois , this unique causeway is submerged by the tide for most of the day. Timing your visit to the connecting island of Noirmoutier is a fun and sometimes exhilarating experience. Once there, Noirmoutiers itself is a lovely place to be marooned, with beautiful beaches, scenic walks, crafts and fantastic restaurants.

– SOUTH OF FRANCE TRAVEL GUIDE –

Whether the South of France conjures images of the glamour of the Côte D’Azur , the idyllic countryside of Aquitaine, or the peaceful vineyards and history of Languedoc , it most likely holds your ideal holiday. The snow-capped mountains of the Midi-Pyrénées and stunningly beautiful towns beckon in the winter months, and sun-soaked beaches, festivals and locally grown Mediterranean foods draw in the summer crowds, and yet the dreamy laid-back areas, like those found in the Dordogne offer space enough for everyone.

– BEST TIME TO VISIT THE SOUTH OF FRANCE –

Annual events not to miss.

• A must for film fans the world over, the Cannes Film Festival is essentially a pilgrimage for cinephiles. Held every May, it’s the biggest festival in the film industry, with blockbusters and independents all carefully curated. Director, actor and miscellaneous celebrity sightings are a given.
• June sees the Bordeaux Wine Festival celebrate all things grape throughout one of France’s favourite wine regions. Expect to taste lots and lots of wine, and see fantastic multimedia and fireworks displays.
• The Midi- Pyrénées loves a good festival or celebration ,  it has things going on for all tastes all year round, from jazz concerts and flower displays to the Tour de France .
• Celebs on the beach: Head to the French Riviera from May to September to hob-nob with the celebrities on the sand and in the chic bars and restaurants. Take your credit card!
• All the grapes: Grape harvesting is normally in September and October, and many of the wineries are happy to let you help out with the picking. It’ll be happening all over France, but Aquitaine is a good bet.
• Truffle mania: Prized black truffles are in season in the Dordogne between December and March. If you’re foodie fanatic, bundle up and brave the chilly weather to get your own taste of nature’s gold.

Although you might get the odd thunderstorm in late summer, the rainiest months are Southern France are October and November.

Temperatures can reach 40˚C. in July and August. If you’re sensitive to heat, consider either a pad with air con and a pool or timing your visit for the balmier months of June and September.

For those seeking the sunshine, crowds tend to flock to the beaches in the South of France during peak school holiday times. If you can avoid July and August, you’ll have more space to sunbathe during June and September. If you’re a snow bunny, the slopes of the Midi-Pyrenees are busiest during UK and France school holidays, when flights are often also at a high. If you’re not governed by term-time, it’s worth planning your villa holidays ahead for some blissfully empty runs.

Village South of France – Courtyard

– SOUTH OF FRANCE: TRANSPORT TIPS –

Getting around the South of France is a lot easier than both the North and Central France. Public transport is a lot more reliable in certain areas, cycling is a breath of fresh air but of course, driving will almost always be your best bet. We’ve broken each city down by transport links and tips!

Midi-Pyrenees transport: Rail connections from Toulouse link up the regional capital with other major stations, including Albi, Lourdes, Rocamadour and Millau, among others. But if you’re looking for an adventure, the Midi-Pyrénées is walking country par excellence.

Languedoc transport: Hailing taxis is generally not the done thing in Languedoc; you’ll have more luck finding them at taxi stands or by booking ahead by phone. But driving in Languedoc is the best way to get around, and allows for access to those remote and rarely explored areas that can’t be reached by public transport.

Dordogne transport: Getting around the Dordogne without a car can prove restricting. Train services in the region are slow, irregular and infrequent. Buses, alas, are even worse.

Provence transport: The TGV system – an abbreviation that literally stands for ‘really fast trains’ – is the best way to get into the region from elsewhere in France.

Aquitaine transport: Driving is the best way to cover all corners of the region, but for those who don’t have the means to a car, the rail network is actually really good (we know shocker!)

– SOUTH OF FRANCE: MUST SEE CITIES AND TOWNS –

Cameras, lights and action – the South of France is definitely about the glitz, glamour and high-end luxuries. But beyond the flashiness are charming towns, unusual markets and winding lanes. The stark contrast of these cities and towns is what makes the South of France so special.

Must see Cities in South of France:

• Lyon, Rhone-Alpes: Gastronomical delights, colourful landscapes and rich in history. Oh, and don’t forget, Lyon was once the capital of France.
• Nice, Cote d’Azur: This city has long attracted artists, renowned for their pebble beaches and the Promenade des Anglais, a quirky tribute to English tourists.
• Sarlat, Dordogne: Medieval village with an enormous town market that will make your heart sing.
• Marseille, Cote d’Azur: The second largest city and the oldest in France. Also renown for their fresh fish and edgy vibe with more than 1500 years of history.
• Toulouse, Languedoc: A.k.a the pink city, majority constructed from pink brick. Visitors love the endless festivals and joyous atmosphere surrounding Toulouse.
• Bergerac, Dordogne: Medieval city with concerts, markets and great museums – make sure to visit the historic ‘vielle ville’ north of the river.
• Fourcés, Midi-Pyrénées:  Listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France, this medieval crescent of half-timbered house will not disappoint.
• Carcassone, Languedoc: Infamous walled hilltop city, medieval architecture and history in spades – the castle is a must.

Must visit Towns and Villages in South of France :

• Limeuil, Aquitaine: Timeworn village with unspoilt old-world charm, situated at the meeting point between the Dordogne and Vézère rivers.
• Bordeaux, Aquitaine: The town at the heart of the infamous wine region, beautiful landmarks like the gothic cathedral and stunning riverbank gardens.
• Loubejac, Dordogne: Pretty, unassuming Dordogne village famous for its summer night market- take your own knife and fork!
• St-Guilhem-le-Desert, Languedoc : Rabbit warren of winding lanes on the banks of the Herault gorge, beautiful views everywhere you turn in this UNESCO gem.
• Assignan, Languedoc:  Unique, brightly coloured village given its colourful persona by an eccentric Flemish couple.
• Oppede-le-Vieux, Provence: Built high on a rocky outcrop and surrounded by forest, this 12 th  century village has a seriously impressive location.
• St-Tropez, Côte d’Azur: The original jet-set flocked here in the 1960s, an image it still portrays to this day, go here to see and be seen.
• Grasse, Cannes: This town is considered the world’s perfume capital, a visit is sure to smell heavenly.
• Avignon, Provence: The region’s cultural hub, overflowing with stunning chapels and churches.
• L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Provence: Formerly a nautical village, today a hub for antique lovers and those looking to experience the scenery of a bygone time.

– SOUTH OF FRANCE: UNSPOILED NATURAL BEAUTY –

It’s hard to find an adjective that really sums up the natural beauty in the South of France. These unspoilt sights are postcard worthy, but even images don’t do it justice. From stunning thermal springs to prehistoric caves – this region is paradise for those looking for that perfect holiday Instagram shot.

• Lascaux cave paintings, Dordogne: Complex of prehistoric caves with incredible palaeolithic paintings inside.
• Lac du Salagou, Languedoc: Incredible blue lake, surrounded by amber-coloured landscape.
• Bagneres de lucheron, Midi-Pyrénées: Beautiful mountain area, brimming with heavenly thermal springs.
• Calanques National Park, Provence-Côte d’Azur: Wild and spectacular park, with high rocky cliffs rising out of the spectacular blue ocean.

– SOUTH OF FRANCE: FOOD AND WINE –

Fresh and light come to mind when describing the food of South of France. Staple ingredients include olive oil, tomato, garlic and the main attraction, fresh fish. Most meals will also begin with an aperitif, our personal favourite is tapenade with a glass of pastis.

Fish:  You’re in the homeland of bouillabaisse, eat it!

Meat:  Cassoulet is a classic stew made from pork and white beans, here you’ll find the original and best recipes.

Veggie:  Pistou is a cold-pressed olive oil based sauce with basil and garlic, delicious and classic accompaniment to lots of things, but try it spread on fresh bread with olives.

Cheese: Roquefort cheese is one of the stinkiest, so make sure you’re entire party partake!

Dessert:  Cannnelés are small individual pastries flavoured with rum and vanilla with a custard centre and a gooey caramelised crust, find the best ones in Bordeaux.

Drinks:  All the wine from Bordeaux , and the pastis in Provence. 

Bouillabaisse

– SOUTH OF FRANCE: MUST DO EXPERIENCES –

• Hang tens and gnarly pipes might not be the first things to come to mind when you think of the South of France . But, if you’re thinking of learning to surf , you’d be hard-pushed to find a better spot. Biarritz is famed for its surfing for beginners and pros alike, so grab a board and catch some of those gorgeous blue waves!
• Speed up in the Côte d’Azur with a luxury car hire. This is the region of excess , so hire an open top car, don your biggest sunglasses (like this Gucci glasses ) and cruise along the incredible coastline.
• Slow down and get lost in any or all of the umpteen pretty villages in the Dordogne. You really can’t wrong, there’s a photo-op around every corner and the beauty of the streets and the slow pace of life are a true joy to explore.

Looking for a full list of villas to rent this year? Check out our villa holidays page here.

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France Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 29, 2024

Wine, cheese, the Eiffel Tower, historic castles , beautiful beaches, snooty waiters — France is famous for a lot of things.

It’s a beautiful country with stunning coastlines, picturesque valleys, world-class wine, and tons of history. And despite what you might hear, the French are a wonderful people who love to stop and smell the roses.

I love backpacking and traveling around France.

There’s nothing like a picnic along the Seine or a spending day in the French countryside to make life seem beautiful. France is everything that people make it out to be and then some. Its long history means there are plenty of beautiful ruins, castles, and cathedrals worth exploring. There’s something for every interest here.

Traveling France can be expensive and those on a super tight budget may find it hard to experience everything France has to offer.

However, having traveled around France multiple times, I’ve picked up a wide variety of money-saving tips and off-beat attractions to see. In short, it’s possible to travel France without breaking the bank — and without missing out on what the country has to offer.

This travel guide can help you plan a trip, save money, and ensure you make the most out of your time in my favorite country in Europe !

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on France

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in france.

1. Spend time in Paris

Paris has everything – the Louvre, impressionist museums, the Eiffel Tower, the Seine, magnificent parks, jazz, and great food. It’s as magical as people say and while it would take a lifetime to see it all, four or five days can give you a good idea. It’s one of my favorite cities in the world. I’ve spent time living there and I think it lives up to all the hype. And, since most tourists stay in one little area, it’s easy to get out and see the city free of crowds and filled with locals living their best life.

2. Explore the Loire Valley

The Loire is lovely and picturesque, with tons of vineyards and chateaus. The region is home to some of the best wines in the world, beautiful small towns (I love Orlean), and world renowned food. It’s an area not to be missed. It’s easy to get to from Paris and you can visit a lot of chateaus here. ( Here’s a list of my favorites .)

3. Tour Marseille

Marseille is a metropolitan city that also has a rich history filled with nightlife, great restaurants, theaters, museums, and even an international soccer stadium. While the city is a bit gritty and industrial, it’s worth a visit for its beautiful waterfront and exciting mix of cultures. Visit the port, eat fresh seafood, head to Notre Dame de la Garde, and see Vieille Charite. Marseille will give you a totally different feel than the rest of France!

4. Hang out in Nice

Nice is nice (get it?). This seaside town in the south is a popular destination for budget travelers who want to soak up some sun but might not be able to afford Cannes or Monaco. I don’t think the beach here is that great, but the central location makes it easy to explore the rest of the coast (and its better beaches).

5. Drink wine in Bordeaux

Some of the best wine in the world is made in Bordeaux . While an expensive destination, it’s beautiful and worth every penny. Bordeaux has the longest shopping street in Europe, amazing seafood (eat at Le Petit Commerce), a historic center, and of course, wine. Next to Paris, it’s my favorite place in France.

Other Things to See and Do in France

1. see the d-day beaches in normandy.

On June 6th, 1944, the allies of World War II launched Operation Overlord, the largest seaborne invasion in history. Over 300,000 allied troops were involved in the operation, which took place in Normandy (some 20,000 troops died in this operation alone). Here you can learn about the D-Day landings along the beaches of northern France and see the memorials and museums detailing the history of the event. You can still see some of the old bunkers and fortifications too. Full-day guided tours of the D-Day Landings cost around 150 EUR.

2. Wander the Palace of Versailles

Located very close to Paris , this royal palace was completed by Louis XIV in 1715 and was used by the French kings until the French Revolution in 1789. Constructed at the height of French power, the complex sought to show off the monarch’s tremendous wealth. Over 10 million people visit this extravagant palace each year. After the Eiffel Tower, it’s the most popular attraction in the country. It’s as awe-inspiring today as it was back then. Tickets to the entire complex cost 27 EUR. Plan to spend the entire day — you don’t want to miss any part of this opulent place.

If you want to beat the crowds (which I highly recommend), skip-the-line tickets are available for 55 EUR. Since upwards of 10,000 people visit per day, skipping the line will save you a ton of time. The wait to get tickets can last hours.

And for a more in-depth experience, this Versailles tour is led by a local expert guide and includes round-trip transportation from Paris at a time that avoids most of the crowds.

3. Explore history in Lyon

Located around two hours south of Paris by train, this is the third-largest city in the country. The area around Lyon is home to wonderful castles and small villages. It’s great for those looking to explore the French countryside and take a trip back to medieval France. The whole city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and truly feels like you have stepped back into the past. Don’t miss the relaxing 20-acre botanical garden, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière (which dates to the 19th century), and touring the city’s Old Quarter.

4. Hobnob with the rich in Monaco

The Principality of Monaco is a sovereign city-state on the French Riviera. This tiny kingdom is home to winding streets, beautiful buildings, a world-famous casino, gigantic modern yachts, and just 39,000 people (over 30% of whom are millionaires!). Hang out with society’s well-heeled who flock to the Cote D’Azur from other parts of France during the summer. Spanning just a couple square kilometers, it’s one of the smallest countries in the world. Be sure to stop by the famous Monte Carlo Casino (where several James Bone films as well as Ocean’s Twelve was filmed), which is only open to foreigners.

5. See Alsace

This northeast region along the border with Germany is a beautiful place to visit. The mixing of Germanic and French influences characterizes the region (since it has been owned and annexed by both countries), with the old town of Colmar being the main attraction. The postcard-perfect downtown is lined with cobblestone streets and old half-timber houses — some of the which date back to the 1300s. Be sure to see the Goth 13th-century church. And if you love wine, drive the Alsace Wine Route, which you can explore over the course of a few days as you visit some of the region’s best vineyards.

6. Wander through Parc de la Villette

This Parisian park — the third-largest in the city after the Bois de Vincennes and the Bois de Boulogne — is host to Europe’s largest science museum and some other odd attractions. There is a large collection of architectural follies (buildings constructed for decoration), theme gardens, and open spaces for activity and exploration. It was designed for children as well as adults and is a neat place to check out. It’s in the 19th arrondissement.

7. Visit the trenches of World War I

France was ground zero during World War I (1914-1918) and there are still many indicators of the damage caused during those years around the country. For example, two important battles took place at Vimy Ridge (which marked a huge success for Canadian forces) and Verdun (the longest battle of the war that saw over 700,000 people killed or wounded). Both sites have set up excellent tourist centers and visiting facilities. It’s a moving and educational experience. You can reach Verdun from Paris in around three hours by car. Vimy Ridge is just over two hours away.

8. Explore Roman ruins

France has some of the best Roman ruins outside of Italy . Orange, Nimes, and Arles all have beautiful Roman theaters, and Nimes also contains one of the best-preserved Roman temples in the entire region of the former Empire, which dates back to around 2 CE. Personally, I loved Nimes a lot. It was an old Roman outpost and has an amazing double-tiered area that dates back to 70 CE. It’s certainly a surprise to see so many indicators of Roman rule in the south of France, and these sites are definitely worth a visit. Half-day tours around the region (including admission) cost around 80 EUR.

9. Visit the Medieval town of Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a medieval walled city. Legend has it that the town survived a siege when one of the townswomen had the bright idea of feeding the remaining food to a pig. Once they fattened it up, they threw it over the fortifications so that it appeared that they were so well-fed that they were being wasteful and gluttonous. The attacking troops gave up and went home. That’s probably not true, but this town still retains a lot of medieval character and offers plenty of interesting shops and alleys to explore. Don’t miss a tour of the castle and ramparts while you’re here!

10. Go skiing

The French Alps offer some of the best ski slopes in Europe. If you’re in Europe in the winter months and at a loss for what to do, consider getting a group together and renting a ski chalet, or staying at one of the slope-side hotels or hostels. Bring plenty of beer and wine to warm you up after a long day on the hills. Note that skiing in France is not cheap (lift passes usually cost upwards of 75 EUR per day). Some of the most popular ski resorts include La Clusaz, Avoriaz, Val d’Isère, and Chamonix.

11. See Dune de Pyla

This sand dune is located an hour outside Bordeaux in Pyla Sur Mer, a resort town where many of France’s well-to-do spend the summer. It’s the largest sand dune in Europe and the result of winds eroding one shore of the bay and blowing sand over. The dune is nearly 3 kilometers (2 miles) long and up to 110 meters (360 feet) high in some places. Visit at dawn or dusk for the best views. You can walk along the entire dune in around 90 minutes.

12. Wander the Louvre

The Louvre is the biggest museum in the world, with thousands of square feet of space and millions of artifacts and works of art (including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo). To see it all, you need at least two full days, but you can do the highlights in a full afternoon. Admission costs 17 EUR, while timed skip-the-line tickets are an additional 17 EUR. Due to capacity restrictions, you MUST get your ticket in advance. They sell out these days so if you don’t get your ticket in advance, you run the risk of showing up and being denied entrance.

13. Go diving

Diving may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of France, but Marseille is making a name for itself as the country’s diving capital. Take a trip out into the Mediterranean, where you can explore tunnels, caves, and admire colorful sea sponges, anemones, and sea fans. You can also spot moray eels and octopus as well as numerous of shipwrecks, such as Le Liban (1882) and Le Chaouen (1961). June to October, when the water is a bit warmer, are the best months for diving here. Prices start at 110 EUR.

  For more information on specific cities in France, check out these guides:

France Travel Costs

Accommodation – Dorm rooms in hostels with 8-10 beds range from 20-75 EUR per night. In Paris (and many other major cities), expect dorms to cost 40-75 EUR per night (even more in the summer). Private rooms in hostels cost between 100-150 EUR. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels include self-catering facilities and breakfast.

Budget hotels begin around 85 EUR per night for a double room with free WiFi and air-conditioning. Accommodations are cheaper outside Paris, Bordeaux, and the French Riviera. Additionally, during peak summer months, expect prices to start at around 120 EUR per night. In Paris, expect to pay at least 150 EUR in the summer.

Airbnb is widely available around the country. Private rooms start around 45 EUR, though they average double that price. Entire homes/apartments start at 75 EUR (but usually cost at least triple that — especially in Paris).

For those traveling with a tent, camping is available around the country. A basic plot for two people without electricity costs around 25 EUR per night. Wild camping is illegal in France.

Food – Food in France has a long history and is intricately intertwined with the culture. Fresh bread (especially baguettes), tasty local cheeses, and plentiful wine may be stereotypical staples of the cuisine, but they really are some of the must-eat foods in the country. Be sure to also try croque monsieur (a hot ham and cheese sandwich), pot-au-feu (beef stew), steak frites (steak and fries), and if you’re really adventurous you can sample traditional delicacies like frog legs, escargot (snails) or foie gras (a fattened duck or goose liver).

Buying your own food in France can be very cheap and the best way to experience the country’s cuisine. There are many breads, cheese, and meat shops around – and it’s how the French eat. They go to their local markets, buy food, and cook. You can make your own lunch for around 10-15 EUR for two people (including wine). Pre-made sandwiches at cheap local shops cost about 6-12 EUR.

Conversely, eating at a restaurant costs between 20-35 EUR for a meal including a glass of wine.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 10 EUR for a combo meal. A cheap meal at a casual take-out place costs around 10-18 EUR.

Beer costs 6-7 EUR while a cappuccino/latte is around 3-4 EUR. Bottled water is 1-2 EUR.

If you plan on cooking your own meals, expect to spend between 45-60 EUR for a week’s worth of groceries. This gets you basic staples like bread, pasta, seasonal produce, and some meat.

France Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker’s budget, prepare to spend 70 EUR per day. On this suggested budget, you’ll be staying in hostel dorms, cooking all of your meals, using public transportation to get around, limiting your drinking, and sticking to mostly free and cheap activities like free walking tours, parks and gardens, and free museums.

On a mid-range budget of 155 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the train between cities, and do more paid activities like wine tours and a visit to Versailles.

On a “luxury” budget of 300 EUR or more a day, you can stay in hotels, eat out for all your meals, rent a car to get around, drink more, and tour whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

France Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

France can destroy your budget if you aren’t careful. Accommodation is pricey, eating out can get expensive, and tours aren’t always affordable. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to save money while you are visiting France without sacrificing your experience. Here are some money-saving tips to help you reduce your costs:

• Have a picnic – Eating out in France is an expensive affair. Restaurants can break a day’s budget quickly. Thankfully, there’s nothing more French than a picnic. Head to the local market; buy some wonderful cheese, bread, fruits, and meats, and have a picnic and watch the day go by. You can have a great meal for less than 10 EUR.
• Take the (slow) train – Train travel in Europe is cheap and it’s the easiest way to get around France. The TGV line can be expensive, but if you get the slow train or have a Eurail pass , you’ll save money.
• Drink wine – In France, the wine is cheaper than water (well, almost!). While you shouldn’t skip drinking water, drink wine over other forms of alcohol to save big. A nice bottle can cost as little as 3 EUR!
• Shop at the markets – Want great French cuisine? Do what the locals do and head to the outdoor markets. Visit the cheese guy, the fish guy, the bread guy, and everyone else to get the best local ingredients to make yourself a perfect French meal. It saves a lot of money compared to eating out.
• Skip the clubs – Clubs in France are expensive and charge an entrance fee (it can be over 20 EUR!). Drinks cost 12 EUR or more. If you don’t want to spend 90 EUR in one night, skip the clubs.
• Rideshare – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar and catch rides with locals between cities (or countries). Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe (though sometimes rides don’t show up, which is why you need to be flexible).
• Eat a prix-fixe meal – This is a set lunch menu where a 2-3 course meal costs about 15-20 EUR. This is a far more affordable option than just ordering off the menu. I always eat out for lunch and then cook for myself for dinners.
• Stay with a local – If you want to save money and get some local insight into the country, use Couchsurfing. There are a lot of hosts in this country. I highly recommend using the site at least once to lower your accommodation costs, make a friend, learn local tips, and have a kitchen to cook in!
• Take advantage of being under 26 – France has EXTENSIVE discounts for people who are under 26 if they have the ISIC card – be sure to get one!
• Bring a water bottle – Since the tap water here is safe to drink you should bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in France

Looking for the best hostel in France? There are tons of options in every major city. Here are some of my favorite hostels in France:

• St. Christopher’s Canal (Paris)
• Les Piaules (Paris)
• Generator Hostel (Paris)
• St. Christopher’s Gare du Nord (Paris)
• Central Hostel (Bordeaux)
• Hostel 20 (Bordeaux)
• Villa Saint Exupery Beach (Nice)
• Vertigo Vieux-Port (Marseille)

How to Get Around France

Public transportation – Local transit systems are reliable and cost between 1-3 EUR per trip. Most cities and towns have extensive train, bus, and tram systems. Transportation to and from the airport into the city center is generally affordable and user-friendly.

Paris has a “carnet” of 10 single-use tickets that costs 14.50 EUR. You can get a one-day to five-day pass (a ParisVisite) for all modes of public transportation (bus, metro, trams, and suburban trains called the RER) for between 13.20-42.20 EUR. It also gives you discounts on some major Parisian landmarks. You can buy tickets at any metro station.

Expect to pay around 12 EUR to get to Paris from Charles de Gaulle.

Budget Airlines – France has several major airports, and budget airlines are popular. It’s an affordable and easy way to get around the country if you’re not big on time.

Paris to Nice averages 50 EUR one way, and Paris to Marseille is also about 50 EUR one way. Book at least a month early to scoop up great deals. In the off and shoulder seasons, you can get these flights for as low as 15-25 EUR.

Just keep in mind that most budget airlines charge extra for checked baggage and often require you to print your ticket out in advance.

Buses – France has several bus operators, including:

My recommended bus company is Flixbus .

A 10-hour bus trip from Paris to Marseille costs around 15-30 EUR while a trip from Paris to Strasbourg costs 17-25 EUR. A 7.5-hour journey from Paris to Bordeaux starts around 13 EUR, while the 3-hour journey from Paris to Tours (in the Loire Valley) is around 12 EUR. A longer ride like 15 hours from Paris to Nice starts around 35 EUR.

While the bus is great, I generally prefer to travel by train in France as it’s a nicer, more comfortable experience.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Trains – France has regular trains as well as the world-famous high-speed TGV. SNCF is France’s national railway, and you can buy tickets on their website. But even the regular train is much quicker than taking the bus!

If bought last-minute, a train trip from Paris to Nice costs 55-105 EUR. But if you buy in advance, Paris to Nice can cost as little as 25 EUR in 2nd class. A last-minute train trip from Paris to Strasbourg costs 70-80 EUR, but advance tickets in second class start around 19 EUR. Shorter trips like Marseille to Nice start around 36 EUR, while you can get from Paris to Tours for 19 EUR. Good discounts on train travel exist for travelers under 26-years-old!

To find routes and prices for trains around France, use Trainline .

You may also want to consider getting a Eurail Pass , which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period. These passes are continent-wide, country-specific, or regional.

Ridesharing – If your schedule is flexible, use a ridesharing service and catch rides with locals between cities. Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe. It’s usually cheaper than the bus too. BlaBlaCar is the most popular. There’s sometimes a language barrier but, for the most part, it’s easy to use and much more interesting than the bus or train!

Car rental – France is a great destination to rent a car and road trip (just avoid driving in cities like Paris; they can be a nightmare). Rentals start at around 30 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Drivers need to be at least 21 years of age and usually need to have a credit card in their name.

When to Go to France

Peak season in France is the summer, when France gets incredibly crowded. Prices skyrocket during this time but the overall atmosphere and weather is great so it’s still worth visiting during peak season. Temperatures average between 16-24°C (61-75°F), though they have often climbed much higher in recent years due to climate change, reaching well into the in the 30s°C (80s°F). In the south of France, daily highs hover around 30°C (80°F) and go up from there.

Just note that a lot of the country closes down in August when people go on holidays. Make sure to plan accordingly and double check opening/closing hours.

The shoulder season is spring and fall (April-May and September-October, respectively). It’s still warm during this time but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper. This is my favorite time to visit France. The weather is good, the crowds fewer, and the prices are lower. Just make sure to bring a light rain jacket.

Winter in France is from November to February. It gets cold, even in the south. Average winter temperatures range from 0-8°C (32-46°F). On the other hand, the Christmas season is fantastic — you’ll find Christmas markets and festivals galore! While Paris is never empty, this is the quietest (and cheapest) time to visit the city.

How to Stay Safe in France

France is very safe for backpacking and solo traveling. Violent crime is rare so travelers should feel safe here, both day and night.

That said, scams and petty theft can occur (especially pickpocketing in Paris) so be on the lookout. Always keep your valuables secure and out of sight when on busy public transportation and in crowded tourist areas.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

One common scam in Paris is to get tourists to sign a petition against some common cause. Once you sign, they’ll pester you for a donation. To avoid getting ripped off, simply decline anyone approaching you with a petition.

When using an outdoor ATM, always check to make sure a card skimmer has not been attached to the card reader. To be safe, only use indoor ATMs.

France has a history of protesting (mainly in Paris). These can turn violent so if a protest occurs during your visit, avoid taking part.

To avoid other potential scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Car break-ins are most common near the border with Spain as well as in Normandy around the D-Day sights.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

France Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!
• Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of France.

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Paris!

While I have a lot of free tips on Paris, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, maps, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc.), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of Paris that I got from living and running tours here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go.

France Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on France travel and continue planning your trip:

The 8 Best Hotels in Paris

How to Spend 5 Days in Paris

13 Off-the-Beaten-Path Things to See and Do in Paris

The Best Walking Tours in Paris

Life in Paris, Part 3: Nothing Lasts Forever

The 10 Best Day Trips from Paris

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9 Days In France – The Ultimate Itinerary

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Your journey will start in the bustling city of Paris before you head south to the French Atlantic coastline and Bordeaux. Following your time in Bordeaux, you will hit up the med coastline and explore Marseille, the Calanques National Park, Nice, and if you want, the tiny country of Monaco.

Table of Contents

What to do:, where to eat, where to stay in paris, check out our further earth curious content on paris to prepare:, what to do and see, where to stay, best wine tours in bordeaux, where to eat, leaving france:, the best time to visit france:, what is the currency of france, can you drink tap water in france, the language of france:, is france safe, final thoughts:, other europe itineraries:.

Assuming that you are traveling from outside of Europe, you will most likely be traveling into the country via plane.

Once in France, you will travel way more efficiently and cheaply by taking high-speed public trains between cities. Most tickets cost between €10-30 and can get you to destinations faster than by car in most situations.

Day 1: Arrive in Paris – Eiffel Tower and Palace of Versailles

You have just arrived in France! The most accessible city to travel to is Paris, the country’s capital city. To get from the airport to the city center, you can hire a cab to take you directly to your hotel. If you are a budget traveler, you can take one of the regional express trains, which run every 10 minutes.

Depending on the time you arrive and how long your flight was, you may need some time to recharge in your accommodation. When you are ready to get into the city, your first stop is to see the Eiffel Tower – one of the most recognized monuments in the world.

See the Eiffel Tower: Make sure your camera is fully charged when heading down to the Eiffel Tower, which is the symbol of France. It measures over 1,000 feet in height, known colloquially as the “Iron Lady” The Eiffel Tower is free to see from afar, but you will have to buy a ticket in order to enter the tower. Depending on your budget, it may be worth it to pay the price, as you will be able to explore the first and second floors, which have various cafe and lounging areas, as well as the summit, which offers panoramic views of all of Paris.

Visit the Palace of Versailles: Another one of the most visited attractions of France, the Palace of Versailles dates back to the 17th century and was the residence of French kings Louis XIV and Louis XVI. You will have to buy a ticket to enter, but the entrance allows you access to the immaculate gardens, the main palace (which consists of over 2,000 rooms), and the Queen’s Hamlet.

Chez Lazare

Madam Brasserie (located in the Eiffel Tower)

• $$$ – Shangri-La Paris
• $$ – Hotel Sophie Germain
• $ – The People Hostel – Paris Le Marais

Day 2: Paris – See the Mona Lisa at the Louvre Museum

You cannot leave Paris without visiting some of its most popular museums, which are recognized globally

Go to the Louvre Museum : The Louvre Museum in Paris is globally recognized because it houses arguably one of the most popular paintings in history – the Mona Lisa . Other famous pieces in the museum include Vénus de Milo , La Liberté Guidant le Peuple , and Victoire de Samothrace . Admission to the Louvre costs €17 for foreign visitors. The outside architecture of the Louvre is also not to be missed, as the museum is also recognized for its glass pyramids outside.

Louvre Repaille

• Is Paris Expensive To Visit?
• The Best Days Trips From Paris By Train (Perfect to extend your trip!)
• The Best Time To Visit Paris To Avoid Crowds (This article can apply to visiting France in general!)
• Is Paris Safe to Visit? (2023 Guide)

Note: All of the above links will open in a new tab, so you can save them for reading after you are done with this article.

Day 3: Paris – Montmatre and The Basilica of Sacré Coeur de Montmartre

After a full two days of sightseeing, take some time for relaxation and a brisk stroll.

Explore the neighborhood of Montmartre : Montmartre is known for its cozy village feel and bustling art scene, which has inspired artists over the years such as Van Gogh and Picasso. For a more in-depth look into the neighborhood, go on a free walking tour, where you can learn the history of the area from a local guide. Make sure to stop at one of the cozy cafes for a coffee along your exploration.

Visit the Basilica of Sacré Coeur de Montmartre : Another important monument of Paris, and is one of the most important religious sites in the city. Visitors can enter and climb to the top of the dome for views of the city, or lounge in the grass of the grounds.

Cafe Montmartre

La Mére Catherine

Day 4: Train to Bordeaux, Place de la bourse

Travel time: to travel from Paris to Bordeaux, take the high-speed SNCF TGV train, which is the most economical and fastest option that takes just over 2 hours. standard class tickets start at about €16 one-way.

Known as the heart of the wine region of France, Bordeaux is known for its gothic architecture and idyllic French countryside.

Place de la bourse : Known as the iconic symbol of the city of Bordeaux, this palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site, dating back to the 18th century. The Palace offers free admission for visitors, but it is worth it to pay a little extra for a guided tour to learn about the historical and cultural significance.

Restaurant Influences

Le Petit Atelier des Faures

• $$$ – Villas Foch Bordeaux
• $$ – ibis Bordeaux Centre Mériadeck
• $ – Central Hostel

Day 5: Go on a wine tour in Bordeaux

The Bordeaux region is known for its extensive wineries, so you cannot leave without trying some world-class wine. The best time to visit is in September, which is grape harvesting season in France.

Château Bernateau: a family-owned winery that operates tours in French and English. Prices range between €6-10 per person.

Château Coutet: Located about 20 minutes from the center of St. Emilion – another winery that is family owned and operated. A special aspect of this winery is the extensive gardens and ponds on the property, which are frequented by many ducks and geese.

Château Lafaurie Peyraguey

La Table de Plaisance

Day 6: Arrive in Marseille and explore the Old Port of Marseille

Travel time: Direct trains from Bordeaux to Marseille last about 6.5 hours, so it may be more efficient to fly, which only takes about an hour. There are also options for overnight trains, so you can get a night’s sleep while you travel.

The next stop on your France itinerary is the quaint city of Marseille, located on the southern coast of the country.

Walk around the Old Port of Marseille: With a rich maritime history and cultural significance, the Old Port of Marseille is a great place to stroll and interact with the locals. Make sure to stop by the Quai des Belges Fish Market, which is the heartbeat of the Old Port. When you get hungry, enter one of the many cafes, restaurants, and bars that are located along the main streets.

La Délicatesse

La Poule Noire

• $$$ – Le Petit Nice Passedat
• $$ – Les Bords de Mer
• $ – Vertigo Hostel Vieux-Port

Day 7: Marseille – Go to Calanques National Park

Travel time: You can get to the Calanques National Park very easily from Marseille. Check out the park’s website here . You can travel by public bus, sea shuttles, in your own car/rental car or by bike.

Hike in Calanques National Park: Located in the south of France, this national park boasts over 20 kilometers of coastline and is the only European park to have land, sea, and urban areas in the same park. You can easily spend the entire day exploring some of the many hikes that Calanques has to offer. The most notable trails to check out are the Calanques de Cassis Trail, Calanque de Sugiton, and Calanque de Marseilleveyre.

Brasserie Des Calanques

Day 8: Nice

Travel time: The most efficient way to get from Marseille to Nice is by train, specifically the TVG “OuiGo” trains. The trip lasts about 2.5 hours, and tickets are about €20 one-way.

Nice is known as France’s most popular beach city. Use the end of your trip to relax!

Walk the Promenade de Anglais: Literally translating to “walkway of the English” this promenade stretches about 7 kilometers along Nice’s coastline. It is extremely pedestrian-friendly and has bike lanes for cyclists as well. Along the way, you can find many cute shops, restaurants, and souvenir shops.

Take a day or afternoon trip to Monaco: Monaco is the epitome of luxury and grandeur. A tiny country nestled on the glorious French Riviera, Monaco has long been a haunt for the rich and famous, thanks to generous tax laws, beautiful scenery, and fantastic weather. Best of all, it’s only 25 minutes away from Nice by train! Read our full Earth Curious guide on getting to Monaco from Nice, and what to do when you get there.

George’s Roll Seafood

Le Panier Restaurant

Day 9: Head to the beaches in Nice

Don’t leave Nice without putting on your bathing suit and heading to the beach.

La Réserve beach: a lesser-known beach with less tourist traffic. It is tucked away but still very accessible to the downtown area.

Opéra Plage beach: A private beach that also has a former opera house pavilion.

Plage Beau Rivage: Another private beach located very near the Old Town with access to plenty of luxury restaurants and accommodations.

Le Negresco

Chez Acchiardo

After your time in Nice, you can either leave from Nice airport (year-round, Nice has flights to most major cities in Europe, and during summer months there are a fair number of international destinations too.

Otherwise, you can easily get a high-speed train back up to Paris and leave France from there. The fastest trains take just under 6 hours, and when booked in advance tickets cost around €30 one-way.

Useful tips for traveling in France:

For the most pleasant weather conditions, the best time to visit France is in the summer, between June and August. Because of the favorable weather, this season is also the peak tourist season in France. Although everything operates at full capacity during this time, it also means you will be competing with crowds and higher prices. If you want to save money and avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and fall (September-October). Not only is the weather cooler, but there are fewer tourists.

The national currency of France is the Euro. The Euro is also the currency for many other neighboring European countries, such as Germany, Italy, Spain, Portugal, and more. So, if your trip to France is part of a longer trip throughout Europe, you won’t have trouble constantly exchanging currency.

Yes! The tap water in the entirety of the country is safe to drink. You should not have a problem filling your bottle with tap water in most given regions in France, especially in large cities like Paris.

The national language of France is French , which is the first language of 88% of the population. It is a great place to practice your French if you are actively trying to learn it. If you don’t know any French, you should download some language apps or a translator, as only 39% of the population has some degree of English proficiency. For larger tourist areas, you most likely will not have a problem, as English is more widely spoken in these areas. You will have more luck speaking English with younger people, as older generations over the age of 50 were generally not formally taught English in school.

France is overall a safe country to travel to solo or in a group. Rates of violent crime are generally low, and the most common crimes against tourists are petty theft and pickpocketing. With this in mind, always proceed with caution no matter how safe you perceive an area to be.

Related: 15 Of The Best Places To Visit In France

If you are looking for an adventurous itinerary with many diverse places to see, look no further than France. Not only does the country have much historical relevance, but you will be blown away by its incredible art, food, and views. The best aspect of traveling in France is its access to efficient and cheap transportation by train, which can allow you to see the entire country in one trip.

Here at Earth Curious, it is our goal to have amazing content published about every country in the world! We are slowly getting there!

If you’re thinking of spending some more time in Europe and fancy visiting other countries and not just France, then why not check out some of our other country itineraries below?

Note: all of the below countries, border France and you can easily take a train to get to the next country. If you’re using trains in multiple European countries you might want to consider getting an interrail pass, there is more on that here .

• 7-Day Germany Itinerary (A 2023 Guide)
• The Ultimate 3-5 Day Belgium Itinerary
• The Best 9-Day Switzerland Itinerary: Detailed Guide
• The Ultimate 2-Week Italy Itinerary: Exploring The Entire Country

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France is one of our favorite countries to visit in the world. From the beauty of Paris to the stunning seascapes of Normandy and Brittany, France met my expectations and more from my first visit.

I fell in love with France   as a child and have cherished every visit since. Here are some of our favorite places and things to do in France

HIGHLIGHTS FROM OUR FRANCE TRAVEL BLOG

Start in Paris (of course) and then make you way around the gorgeous regions of France

• 3 days wandering Paris
• A trip to Paris with kids
• Visiting Lyon as a family
• Beautiful cities to visit in France
• Charming small French towns
• A trip to Normandy
• Boutique Hotel Bordeaux – a review

French cuisine is best savored region by region

• A guide to   food in Paris
• Bordeaux -guide to the  wine museum
• Wine  tour of the Médoc  region
• How to make Tarte Tatin

Apart from the delicious food, discover the rich culture of France 

• Tips for your visit to  Versailles
• Visiting  the Somme region
• Monet’s gardens at  Giverny

LATEST FRANCE TRAVEL ARTICLES

30 of the most beautiful cities in france, paris food guide – how to plan your ultimate foodie trip to paris, paris for kids – ideas for a magical trip to the city of light, visiting versailles: tips for a fun day trip from paris, 30 of the most charming small towns in france, in the footsteps of an artist: visit giverny and monet’s garden, a trip to normandy – the beautiful northern coast of france, grape discoveries on a bordeaux wine tour.

8 France travel blogs you should bookmark

No need to scour the internet for the paris travel articles you want most..

If you’ve ever spent a little time with your friend Google while researching a vacation, you already know this: there is no shortage of travel blogs out there these days.

Go ahead, try it. Google “what to do in Paris”. You’ll get “About 2,060,000,000 results (0.53 seconds)”.

Yikes. Who has time to wade through that all?

And if you check out the first couple pages of Google, you have a lot of very standard results – yes Harper’s and Timeout and the Telegraph are all great, but A. everyone else is reading them too, and B. there aren’t really any truly unique activities or insight. With publications that have to churn out thousands of articles per year, it’s no wonder.

So let’s get to it. When it comes to visiting Paris, we know you all are interested in learning more about this beautiful place (and not just Paris – there is so much to see in France other than the capital!). I’ve rolled up my sleeves to find and share 8 of my favorite and most useful blogs about France, just for you.

1. Nomadic Matt – France Travel Guide

The internet is fickle, and blogs come and go. Not this guy though.

I’ve been following this blog ever since I started my France journey back in 2012 as a student. Matt is a definite travel expert – his site features over 15 different countries all around the world.

His France section is chock filled with the best things to do all over France, not necessarily just in Paris! Marseilles, Nice, Bordeaux, the Loire Valley…he really explores it all.

That’s great news for those of you who really want to dig in when it comes to your France travels.

My favorite part: Matt’s typical costs section! With assumptions flying left and right about the cost of food, housing, and activities in France, it’s super helpful to have the real facts all in one place.

Nomadic Matt website

2. The Slow Road

This is a recent discovery for me, but as soon as I stumbled across this site I was hooked.

It is similar to Nomadic Matt in that there are different sections for different countries, and there are endless articles focused on France.

My favorite part: the Reading for the Road rection! We’re huge book lovers here at Sight Seeker’s Delight (and I mean huge ), so we’re always looking for new books to read. And books that focus on France? That’s where it’s at!

The Slow Road website

3. My Parisian Life

It’s a common misconception is that France IS Paris… however, we are of course based here in Paris. Plus, most of you traveling will be coming to or through Paris, so we have to share some City of Lights blogs with you.

My Parisian Life is written by American, Yanique, who moved to Paris to follow her dreams ( um, very relatable ). Her blog is filled with tips about living in the city, but it is also a great guide for tourists that want to do as the locals do.

My favorite part: the Neighborhoods section! Paris is made up of 20 neighborhoods, each very different from the next. This guide is an excellent way to know where to go, what to see, and what to eat.

My Parisian Life website

4. Life in Our Van

Another blog with multiple sections for different destinations, this one is written by husband and wife that decided to ditch the normal routine and travel the world with their 2 children.

This is obviously not the reality for many, but talk about a dream for some! The family of four has traveled the world in their motorhome, and has recorded their adventures to share, and also help other travelers.

For any of you traveling as a family, you’re going to find some really great insight here.

My favorite part: the lively spirit and family based posts. Traveling with children can be a challenge – this blog shows you that it doesn’t have to be. There is also a quote by Mark Twain featured all over their site that reads: “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” The quote gives me chills…

Life in our Van website

5. France Travel Tips

Not everyone wants to “do as the locals do.” That can be a ton of pressure. Sometimes, when we travel, we just want to be TOURISTS!

And you know what? That’s okay. That’s better than okay – don’t let anyone ever tell you different.

In that vein, having useful information from a tourists’ perspective is sometimes exactly what you need.

Enter author Janice Chung. She does not live in France, but she has visited nearly 30 times.

That’s some expert-level traveling!

Since she has been here so many times, you can imagine that Janice has discovered some of the best and most unique things to do in this country. Start your journey through her site by clicking on, you guessed it…Start Here!

My favorite part: the OCD inside me loves the way this site is set up! With tabs like experiences, travel tips, and trip planning…you know exactly where to find what you’re looking for.

France Travel Tips website

6. The Provence Post

The south of France may be my favorite part of this country (after Paris, of course!). The sparkling blue water, the rolling fields, the mountain views…*le SIGH*. However, you’ll find less English spoken and less resources in English for this part of the country – especially the countryside.

Author Julie, says that she started her blog because she “had trouble finding the information [on the south of France] that I wanted in English.” We know that feeling! Thankfully, she started her blog and now shares that kind of information with her readers.

My favorite part: the Local Markets section! You may already know that I LOVE open air markets ! Now a comprehensive list of open air markets in the south of France, brimming with fresh south of France produce?! YES.

The Provence Post website

7. Hand Luggage Only

Hand Luggage Only is a blog run by friends and fellow travelers Yaya and Lloyd. The pair started the blog as a way to share their traveling stories together, to connect with other like-minded people, and to help others like themselves.

This is another site with many sections and destinations to peruse through, and I am loving their France section.

My favorite part: the photos! These guys have a definite gift (and probably a really nice camera) when it comes to photography. The photos are crisp, bright, and they really make you want to visit France… as if you didn’t already want to. If you’re reading this, Yaya and Lloyd, can you guys give me a photography lesson, please?!

Hand Luggage Only website

8. Sight Seeker’s Delight

You’re here already, but did you know that we aim our articles towards travelers just like you?

We specialize in Paris, because that’s the French destination that drew us, like a little moth to the Parisian flame… We’ve all spent years here working to uncover unique activities and useful information for travelers. It’s not only our job – it is 100% absolutely our passion. Our raison d’être , if you will…

However we’re all expats, so we share information from that unique perspective, as well. For example, we’ve written about:

• French restaurant etiquette – so you know what to expect and have positive dining experiences
• Travel gadgets that are worth it – so you know what will actually help while traveling
• Useful Paris Apps – so you know what apps work best in Paris
• Easy & authentic French recipes – so you can enjoy a taste of France at home, even if you’re not a chef
• Eiffel Tower alternatives – so you can delight in unique views even if Eiffel tickets are sold out
• Juicy Versailles secrets – so you can tell all your friends what they’d never know otherwise (like that smell…)

I don’t mean to toot our own horn here, but we write some pretty useful articles with that unique Sight Seeker’s Delight spin. I mean, 17,000 monthly readers can’t be wrong, right?!

You can even subscribe to receive the free quarterly newsletter which has round-ups of our most popular articles, including travel tips, recipes, and unique Paris activities – not to mention discounts for those of you with upcoming travel plans.

Subscribe for free

Even if you prefer not to subscribe, it’s worth your time to check out our Paris tips and highlights:

Sight Seeker’s Delight Paris articles

Well, that’s a wrap, folks! I’ve shared my personal favorite blogs that cover travel in France and Paris. Did I miss one you believe should make the list? Don’t hesitate to let me know in the comments.

In the meantime, fire up those laptops/computers/tablets and get exploring!

47 thoughts on “ 8 France travel blogs you should bookmark ”

Wonderful post! France has been on my travel bucket list for quite a long time. Incidentally, my fiancé also wants to visit France. So, we have to decide to plan our honeymoon & have already applied for a France Visa. We have been scouring some good travel blogs when we came across yours. We would love to go through your blog to get some great Paris travel tips.

Thanks so much for your kind words, Annie! We hope to see you in France soon 🙂

Great Post!!! I really like your thoughts. You are one of the creative bloggers. I am waiting for your upcoming post… please post soon. keep sharing, your positivity is infectious.

Amazing article! Thank you for sharing!

Thanks for reading! 🙂

I enjoyed reading it! Thank you a lot!

Thanks for stopping by Sarah!

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Great information, very helpful, thank you for sharing !

Thanks for reading!

Great list. Throwing my hat in the ring for next year too!

Thanks for reading 🙂

Très beau blog.Rappelez-moi quand j’étais enfant.J’aimerais m’étendre et dire que nous sommes une agence de voyages qui propose divers voyages organisés pour l’Inde.Au-dessous, je partage les détails

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Great blog post! I recently started my own at https://apennysworth.net to which I’m adding (as fast as I can!) all my restaurant, bar, and travel recommendations for France! Feel free to take a look — I hope you like it and let me know if you have any suggestions.

Thank you so much for reading and sharing! You have a great site 🙂

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Thanks for the list but I have been fan of nomadic matt. I am following him since 3 years and I love his guides.

Thanks for reading, Rene! We love Nomadic Matt too 🙂

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France is the very nice place and you can visit their and capture some memorable moment by Hamza Mejri.

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Thanks for reading, Sapindra!

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Thanks for the tips, Steve!

Thank you so much for sharing such amazing info. Well written

No problem 🙂 thanks for reading!

best post ever thanks for posting

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This is a very nice piece! I love the way you packaged it. Contact me and i will tell you all you need to carry when you are coming to Uganda

Thanks for the share!

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Thanks so much! So glad to hear you enjoyed it 🙂

great blog, thank you so much

WOOOOWW!!!!! those are very very nice pictures of France tourist spots. Wish i could go there 🙁

Hi Faraz! We’d love to have you in Paris 🙂 Come visit!

Awesome and lovely post! Lots of stunning shots of a very beautiful place. Love your blog so much and please add me to your newsletter if you have free time! Would love to get emails from you when you post something like this!

With Love, Zane

Hi Zane! We’re so happy that you enjoy our posts 🙂 we’ll definitely add you to our newsletter!

Wow. The loveliest city in the world is already in this page. Great pictures, great article. Thank you for sharing.

Thank you so much! 🙂

We’re so happy you enjoyed it!

france is the amazing place and I love to visit and such a wonderful post

such a wonderful blog!! I appreciate. kudos to the blogger. keep going . Best Wishes.

Thank you very much! Glad you enjoyed it!

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One Day in Dijon – The Perfect Itinerary

• By Jen Ciesielski
• Updated: 15 December 2023
• 31 December 2022

Less than two hours from Paris, in the heart of Burgundy, lies a true hidden gem in France, Dijon. Yes, it’s small, but this little town packs a punch. From classic French architecture to world-class museums, Dijon has it all. And because it’s so compact you won’t need more than a day to see the main highlights. Add it to your tour of eastern France or make it a day trip from Lyon or Paris, either way, you won’t regret it!

So, to help you plan your trip I’ve put together the ultimate guide to spending one day in Dijon. This itinerary covers must-see attractions like Dijon’s Notre Dame Cathedral, the Parcours de la Chouettes, and Musée des Beaux Arts. There are also a few hidden places to take you off the beaten path. You’ll be immersed in culture, art, and cuisine. It has everything to guarantee an amazing trip!

Please note : This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking on a link (at no extra cost to you). Privacy Policy .

Table of Contents

Map of dijon, one day in dijon – 21 things to do, best restaurants in dijon, where to stay in dijon, best time to visit dijon, how to get to dijon, frequently asked questions.

Below is a map of Dijon containing all the places listed in this guide. Click here or on the map to open Google Maps.

1. Marvel at the Palais des Ducs de Bourgogne

The Palais des Ducs de Bourgogne dominates the center of Dijon. Overlooking the Place de la Libération, this Gothic-style palace dates from the 14th century. And it served as the formal seat of power for the Dukes of Burgundy until 1848. Today, the palace houses several museums as well as municipal offices.

Address : 1 Rue Rameau

Discover Dijon with this Fun Urban Escape Game ➔

2. Stroll Down Rue Verrerie 

There is no shortage of beautiful streets in Dijon. But Rue Verrerie is one of the most picturesque.

Like many of the villages in Alsace , this street is full of colorful half-timbered houses that date to the 15th century. While some are residential, most are antique shops selling unique items. Stop in one of the stores or enjoy a delicious cup of coffee at one of the many cafés.

Free One Day in Dijon Itinerary

Sign up for a free copy of my One Day in Dijon Itinerary. It has everything you need to guarantee an amazing trip!

3. Visit the Original Maille Boutique

Of course, no trip to Dijon is complete without visiting the original Maille boutique. After all, this is where Dijon mustard comes from!

This iconic shop first opened in 1845 and is known for its unique varieties of mustards. Not only will you get to sample different types of mustards, but you’ll also learn about the production process. Then, if you’d like to buy some mustard, sommeliers are there to help you choose the right one!

Address : 32 Rue de la Liberté

Book your Wine and Cheese Pairing Session in Dijon here ➔

4. Take in the Views from Belvédère de Talant

On the outskirts of Dijon lies one of the city’s best-kept secrets, Belvédère de Talant. From the top, you’ll have the most magnificent panoramic view.

It’s an hour’s slog uphill, but your efforts will be worth it. And because it’s not in any guidebook, you’ll have the place to yourself. Go for sunrise or sunset or pack a lunch and enjoy it at the top. Either way, you won’t be disappointed!

Address : 33 Rue Notre Dame

5. Follow Le Parcours de la Chouette

Looking for a unique way to explore Dijon? If so, then following the Parcours de la Chouette (Owl’s Trail) is for you! This charming self-guided walking tour will take you through some of the city’s most interesting sites. It takes about two hours, but you’ll have so much fun, the time will fly. Follow the symbols on the ground or stop by the Tourist Office for a map!

Tourist Office Address : 11 Rue des Forges

6. Discover Dijon’s Notre Dame Cathedral

Located in the heart of Dijon lies the ever-impressive Notre Dame Cathedral. Built in the 13th century, this Gothic-style masterpiece is most noted for its intricate sculptures. In fact, it’s considered one of the most beautiful churches in Burgundy . Take a tour of the outside then head inside for something truly spectacular. Its arched ceiling stretches to the heavens while the gentle light illuminates the altar. It will no doubt leave you in awe.

Address : 2 Place Notre Dame

7. Tour the Musée des Beaux Arts

This stunning museum showcases some of France’s most renowned works of art. Not only that but it’s also housed in the Palais des Ducs de Bourgogne! It’s a chance to explore some fantastic exhibits while touring one of the most beautiful palaces in France. From ancient sculptures to modern art, the Musée des Beaux Arts has quite the collection. They even have paintings by Claude Monet ! And best of all, admission is free!

8. Walk around Arquebuse Botanical Gardens

The Arquebuse Botanical Gardens is a tranquil oasis amidst a bustling city. Boasting five hectares of lush gardens, this paradise is home to thousands of plants. It’s also filled with winding paths and streams that provide the perfect setting for a peaceful stroll. I spent the morning touring the gardens and had the place to myself. It was a great start to my one day in Dijon!

Admission : Free

Address : 1 Avenue Albert 1er

9. Enjoy Porte Guillaume

Porte Guillaume dates to the 12th century when it served as a gate to the city. It’s named after Guillaume de Volpiano who was head of the monastery at Saint Bénigne abbey. While it’s not a replica of the Arc de Triomphe, it does bear some resemblance. So, if you’re visiting Paris this summer , visit both so you can compare!

Address : 13 Place Darcy

10. Discover the Saint Bénigne Cathedral

One of the most iconic and beautiful landmarks in Dijon is the majestic Saint Bénigne Cathedral. Built between 1280 and 1325, this Gothic-Romanesque-style cathedral became a national monument in the 14th century. Today, you can visit the church for free. And, at night, the streetlights illuminate the steeple and highlight its architecture. It was one of the most beautiful things I saw during my time in Dijon.

Address : Place Saint Bénigne

11. Explore Lake Kir

Head to Lake Kir for some outdoor fun! This beautiful lake is surrounded by a whopping 30 hectares of green space. From swimming and sunbathing to canoeing and cycling, there are a ton of activities to do here. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Useful Tip : If you’re visiting on the 14th of July , there’s a concert and a fireworks display!

Address : Avenue du 1er Consul

12. Climb the Tour Phillippe le Bon

Philippe le Bon, also known as Philip the Good, was a Duke of Burgundy who ruled from 1419 to 1467. He’s best known for establishing Burgundy as a center for arts and culture. Not only that but during his reign, the region was at the height of its prosperity.

And Tour Philippe le Bon, which overlooks the city, was built as a symbol of his success.

Today, you can climb the tower for some of the most beautiful views over the city. Tours are only offered by the Tourist Office and reservations are necessary. I recommend booking in advance because it’s one of the most popular things to do in Dijon.

Admission : €‎5

Address : Place des Ducs de Bourgogne

13. Try a Glass of Burgundy Wine

Last but certainly not least, trying a glass of wine in Dijon is a must. There is a myriad of great wineries, bars, and wine cellars that do tastings. Of the bars, I recommend La Cave Se Rebiffe. It’s located right in the center of Dijon and has a wide selection of wine.

14. Discover the Maison Millard dit Milsand

Once the house of Jean Millard, who was the mayor of Dijon in 1560. This 16th-century masterpiece was designed by the cabinet maker and sculptor Hughes Sambin. It displays some of the most unique design elements in the city. From lion heads to garlands of fruits and flowers, and trophies, it’s something to see firsthand.

Useful Tip : The entrance is not obvious so be sure to keep your eyes peeled.

Address : 38 Rue des Forges

15. Visit the Rude Museum

The Rude Museum is dedicated to none other than François Rude, a renowned French sculptor. Here you’ll find some of his most infamous pieces, including La Marseillaise from the Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile . So, whether you are an art enthusiast or simply interested in learning more about this beloved artist, a visit to this unique space is a must. And the best part is, it’s free!

Address : 8 Rue Vaillant

16. Relax in Jardin Darcy

Jardin Darcy is a small park right in the center of Dijon. It’s known for its grandiose terraces, waterfalls, and ponds. There’s even a large sculpture of a polar bear in the center! If you’ve spent the day wandering around Dijon, it’s a great place to stop for a small break and relax your weary feet.

Address : Place Darcy

17. Shop at Les Halles Market

I’m captivated by France’s markets . The authenticity and the bustling atmosphere are so contagious I can’t help but spend a few hours going from stand to stand.

So, if you’re spending one day in Dijon, a visit to Les Halles Market should be at the top of your list.

This vibrant market is filled with fresh produce, local delicacies, and unique souvenirs. Whether you’re looking for a snack or something special to bring home as a gift, Les Halles has something for everyone.

The full market is open Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, so try to plan your trip on one of these days. You won’t regret it!

Address : Halles centrales de Dijon, chez Salaisons de Campagne

18. Tour the Maison Millière

Built in the 15th century by Guillaume Millière, a merchant, and his wife Guillemette Durand, Maison Millière has survived the test of time. In fact, it’s often referred to as the soul of Burgundy.

While it changed hands several times over the years, today, it serves as a restaurant and salon de thé with a small shop. Stop by to admire the charming garden or enjoy a delicious meal!

Address : 10, 12, 14 Rue de la Chouette

19. Relax in Place François Rude

Named after François Rude (like the Rude Museum), this public square is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike. In fact, it’s one of the most photographed spots in Dijon!

From its impressive monuments to its vibrant atmosphere, there’s something here for everyone. Meander around the square or stop by one of the bistros for a glass of wine and watch the city unfold.

20. Meander down Rue des Forges

Located near Place François Rude, Rue des Forges is one of the most stunning streets in Dijon. Here rows of charming boutiques housed in decadent buildings line narrow cobbled streets. Some of the most famous include, Hôtel Morel-Sauvegrain, Hôtel Aubriot Maison Maillard, and Hôtel Chambellan. I spent about 30 minutes walking up and down Rue des Forges, and I still couldn’t pull myself away!

21. Admire Saint Michael Church

Located in the heart of Dijon lies the breathtaking Saint Michael Church. This 16th-century church displays a mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles. There’s also a heavy Italian influence, which separates it from the other churches in Dijon. There’s even a small garden next to the church that’s usually empty where you can take a small break from touring the city.

Address : 5 Place Saint-Michel

Dijon has quite a selection of restaurants, so it can be hard to choose. Here are a few that I recommend:

• L’Arôme – A modern French restaurant with several tantalizing options.
• Restaurant Dijon L’évidence | Restaurant Bistronomique – Excellent food and service at a reasonable price.
• Les Friands Disent – Specializing in typical dishes from Dijon, this restaurant is a must-try!

There is no shortage of places to stay in Dijon. Below are a few places that I recommend:

• Hôtel des Ducs – A beautiful three-star hotel located in the center of Dijon.
• Hostellerie Du Chapeau Rouge – A modern hotel near the historic center. The breakfast here is amazing!
• Hôtel République – A family-run hotel with cozy rooms. It’s the best mid-range option in Dijon.
• April to June – This is one of the best times to visit Dijon. It’s not crowded, the weather is beautiful, and prices are lower.
• July to August – This is the worst time to travel in Dijon. The prices are at their highest, the crowds are unbearable, and the heat is stifling.
• September to November – This is another great time to visit Dijon. The crowds have thinned, and prices start to decrease. Then, if you’re lucky, you’ll get to see the magnificent fall colors.
• December – If you want to see Dijon’s Christmas market, December is the best time to visit.
• January to March – This is the worst time to visit. The skies are grey and gloomy and it’s cold. And since Dijon doesn’t have any ski resorts, it’s not worth your time.

How to Get to Dijon from Paris

By Train : From Paris’ Gare de Lyon station trains run regularly to Dijon and take less than two hours. You can book your train tickets online by clicking here .

By Bus : Buses are less frequent (but cheaper) than trains and take between three to five hours. You can book your bus tickets online by clicking here .

By Car : Driving from Paris to Dijon takes three and a half hours (315 kilometers or 195 miles).

Get the Best Car Rental Rates here ➔

By Private Transfer : There’s no easier way to get from Paris to Dijon than by a private transfer. It’s easy and hassle-free. You can book your private transfer by clicking here .

How to get to Dijon from Lyon

By Train : Trains from Lyon Part Dieu (Lyon’s main train station) run regularly to Dijon and take two hours. You can book your train tickets by clicking here .

By Bus : Buses are less frequent (but cheaper) than trains and take two hours. You can book your bus tickets online by clicking here .

By Car : Driving from Lyon to Dijon takes about two hours (195 kilometers or 121 miles).

How to get to Dijon from Strasbourg

By Train : Trains from Strasbourg’s central station run regularly to Dijon and take two hours. You can book your train tickets online by clicking here .

By Bus : Buses are less frequent (but cheaper) than trains and take five hours. You can book your bus tickets online by clicking here .

By Car : Driving from Lyon to Dijon takes about four hours (330 kilometers or 205 miles).

Is Dijon, France a walkable city?

Yes, Dijon is a very walkable city. Pedestrian-only streets wind through the compact city center, making it easy and enjoyable to explore the city on foot.

Is it worth visiting Dijon?

Yes, it is worth visiting Dijon ! The city is full of beautiful monuments, lush gardens, and cobblestone streets that make it a joy to explore. It offers the perfect mix of history, culture, good food, and wine.

How much time do you need in Dijon?

In general, one day in Dijon is enough to see the main highlights. If you want to explore Dijon plus other towns in Burgundy, two or three days are necessary.

Do people speak English in Dijon?

Yes, many people in Dijon speak English. Museums, restaurants, and hotels usually have someone who can understand and speak basic English. But the official language in Dijon is French, so knowing a few phrases will go a long way.

  Learn French with the Best Language Platform here ➔

What is Dijon famous for?

Dijon is famous for its mustard, wine, and exquisite medieval architecture. And, of the sites to visit, the Palais des Ducs de Bourgogne and Dijon’s Notre Dame Cathedral are the most impressive.

Is Dijon or Lyon better?

It depends on what you’re looking for in a city. For spectacular medieval architecture, Dijon is a great option. But if you’re more interested in visiting a lively city with a ton of things to do then Lyon may be your ideal choice.

I’ve been to both cities, and I have to say they are both great places to visit. If you have enough time, Dijon is only two hours (by train) from Lyon, so you could easily visit both in a single trip.

Does Dijon have a beach?

Yes, Dijon has a beach. It’s next to Lake Kir. If you’re looking to cool off in the heat of the summer, it’s a great place to visit.

What to buy in Dijon, France?

Dijon is famous for its mustard, so be sure to pick up a few jars as a souvenir. I recommend the original Maille boutique. They have the widest selection and there are mustard sommeliers on staff to help you choose! You can also buy Burgundy wine or find some artisanal cheeses at the local market. Finally, if you’re interested in fashion or other accessories, Dijon has several one-of-a-kind boutiques.

Dijon is a beautiful city with plenty to offer! Whether you’re looking for medieval architecture, good wine, or unique shops, it has something for everyone. After visiting Dijon, I was surprised to learn that it’s often overlooked by tourists. So, hopefully, this guide has convinced you to add it to your list of places to visit in France. And you can use this one-day in Dijon itinerary to help plan your trip!

Read More Travel Articles from France

I hope you enjoyed my guide to spending one day in Dijon and found it useful. Here are some other articles that I think you might find interesting.

• 13 Amazing Things to Do in Eguisheim, France
• 11 Best Things to Do in Kaysersberg, France

Jen Ciesielski

Jen Ciesielski is the creator of Dabbling in Jet Lag. She has lived abroad for over ten years, traveled to more than 50 countries, and speaks French and English fluently. Her areas of expertise include moving abroad, learning languages, and travel planning. Originally from the United States, she now lives in France, where she has been for more than six years. She has also traveled extensively around the country. She shares her experiences as an expat living in France and helps thousands of people plan their trips every month.

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Nice france travel blog — the fullest nice travel guide for first-timers.

Nice is a beautiful coastal city located in the South of France and is the second largest tourist city in France after only Paris with many interesting tourist attractions. It is known as the Queen of Côte d’Azur (The French Riviera). Nice attracts visitors by its perfect blend of tradition and modernity with its beautiful mountains, amazing hills, charming landscapes, stunning beaches, unique local culture, unique cuisine, etc. Are you planning a long-awaited trip to Nice but don’t know where to start? We are here to help. So, what to do in Nice France? Let’s check out our Nice France travel blog (Nice France blog, Nice blog, Nice travel blog) with the ultimate Nice France travel guide (Nice city guide, Nice France guide, Nice travel guide, Nice guide, Nice tourist guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and things to do in Nice France to find out the answer!

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Not only crowded, vibrant, bustling, beyond the beautiful appearance, Nice also owns hidden ancient beauty, romance, a wonderful mixed culture. Any visitor also want to come here once to experience walking barefoot on the long pebble beaches, enjoy the beautiful hilltop views, soak in the cool waters of the Mediterranean sea or explore the vibrant flower market color.

Nice France travel blog: Overview of Nice

The city of Nice is located in the coastal province of Alpes-Maritimes, in the Provence–Alpes–Cote d’Azur administrative region of the Southeastern France. Nice is the 5th most populous city in France after Paris, Marseille, Lyon and Toulouse. Favored by nature with a mild and fresh climate, a long stretch of beach with bright golden sunshine, every year Nice attracts a large number of tourists from all over the world.

Nice was once part of Italy’s Savoia and then the Kingdom of Sardinia until Nice was ceded to France in 1860 by a huge vote, against the will of the population. Therefore, in Nice, there are many scenes that still retain the colors of poetic Italy. Incorporated into France in 1860, Nice at that time, with a population of 500,000 people, was still imbued with Italian architecture along the Riviera, especially the old town. Nice has the river Var flowing to the west, overlooking the beautiful Bay of Baie des Anges to the south and leaning against the Alps to the north.

This French Riviera destination always makes a special impression in the hearts of tourists. Therefore, this place always welcomes a large number of tourists to explore annually. For those who have a great passion of travel, the attractiveness of Nice is second only to Paris. Thus, the city of Nice is always the French most attractive tourist destination today. This place has fresh air and pleasant weather, so traveling will be very comfortable and pleasant. The beach here is very beautiful with clear blue water and long pebble beach.

This city is divided into 2 different areas: The old town and the new town. In addition, this old town is also called Vieille Ville. This is the most beautiful place in the city of Nice. When visiting this place, you will always feel the closeness and familiarity of this place. Today, Nice has become the world’s leading resort town.

Many tourists visiting Nice have the same feeling that this place has the beauty of a charming and gentle girl in her twenties. Here lies mystery and infatuation. Therefore, anyone who comes here does not want to return.

Nice France travel blog: When should you visit Nice?

The city of Nice is located in the Mediterranean climate zone, so the weather is mild and warm all year round, the atmosphere is extremely pleasant, suitable for sightseeing and travel leisure.

Spring (March to June): Spring is the best time to visit Nice. The weather in this season is pleasant and mild. Temperatures range from 8°C to 20°C.

Summer (June to August): With 300 days of sunshine, nice climate and mild sunshine. Temperatures range from 17°C – 27°C. This is a very ideal time for a beach trip in Nice, which attracts a lot of tourists from all over Europe every year. Therefore, the summer in Nice is very crowded, and the price of the service is also higher. One thing to note is that the weather can be a bit hot, it will be a bit tiring if you visit and walk around the city.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn is the best season to visit Nice. Temperatures range from 17°C – 24°C in September and drop to 8°C – 16°C in November, with an average rainfall of about 50 mm. The streets are also sparser with tourists at this time. In the autumn, visitors can easily book good hotels and resorts at affordable room rates.

Winter (December to February): Although it is winter, the climate is still warmer and more comfortable than other French cities. Coming to Nice at this time, visitors will have the opportunity to participate in the Nice Carnival, one of the biggest events in the city held in February every year. As well as enjoy the exciting Christmas atmosphere here.

Nice France travel guide: Getting to Nice

Visitors can reach Nice by plane, train, bus or self-drive.

The airport in Nice is Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) airport, located in the southwest of the city, about 6km from the city center. If flying from European cities, you can fly with Air France, Luxair, Finair, Easy Jet,… To find the suitable routes as well as good airfares from your departure point, you can access Google Flights or SkyScanner .

From Nice airport, you can take bus (No. 98, 99), taxi/uber, airport shuttle service to getting to the city center.

From many French or European tourist cities, visitors can reach Nice by train such as TGV, EuroStar, etc. There are direct train lines but there are also train routes that have to transfer trains. You can use online multimodal transport search engines such as Rome2rio , Google Maps, etc. to find the train route you need.

Bus routes from European cities to Nice also operate daily, making it easy for visitors to find and book a bus to Nice. Famous and popular bus companies are Flixbus, Eurolines, Lignes d’Azur,…

Rome2rio or Google maps are convenient tools to search for buses for your journey.

Self-driving

Self-driving car services are very popular in Europe, you can rent a self-drive car to get to Nice from European cities if you meet the European driving requirements. Self-driving car rental companies in Europe can be mentioned such as Avis, Hertz, Budget, Europcar, and Sixt.

Nice France guide: Getting around Nice

To explore Nice or travel between attractions visitors can choose to walk both saving money while see many interesting things along the way. The tourist attractions in the central area of ​​Nice are basically close to each other, so walking is also convenient.

The public bus system called Lignes d’Azur which operates routes in the city, airport and surrounding areas. The bus operates from 7am to 9pm.

I think to admire the beautiful scenery of Nice is to take a bus up on some high roads in the mountains, when looking down at Nice, you can see the sea and the city. This is the most beautiful scene that I like in Nice, coming to Nice without seeing the scenery from above is really a pity, so you definitely try at least once.

There is Bus 82 (towards Eze Village) going from Palais des Exposition Tram Station (this is the starting point of bus routes to Eze, Monaco…). Every hour and a half with a trip, so the first day we waited for the bus, but on the next day of travel, we took odd trips. That means on the route of Bus 82, there will be Bus 14 and 84 passing by.

We took Bus 14 first because it’s a regular bus, runs every 15 minutes, so we can take advantage of the time when we wait for the bus to stop on the side of the road to admire the scenery, which is more convenient than just standing in one place and waiting for the bus, which is very time consuming.

Bicycle/Scooter

In Nice, there are also many bicycle or scooter rental services for visitors to use for travelling and sightseeing. The rental price is also quite reasonable, but you need to ask carefully about the deposit policy by credit card, cash, etc. Currently in Nice there is also a shared bike service called Vélo Bleu – visitors can easily rent one for themselves and return bike at the stops of Vélo Bleu.

Mainly used when tourists want to go to Corsica. There are two companies serving this ferry route.

Taxis in Nice are not chosen by many tourists to travel because of the expensive price and basically it is not necessary to take a taxi to travel in Nice. In case you need to go, you can call Uber instead of taxi because the price is cheaper.

Nice’s tram system passes through many areas of the city and its vicinity. The tram in Nice has been open since 2007, operating every day from 4:25 a.m. to 1:35 a.m. the next morning. Visit http://tramway.nice.fr for more details on tram routes.

Nice France travel blog: Where to go & what to do in Nice France?

The city of Nice can be divided into four main areas: The old town (Vieux Nice), the city center, the beach area and the port area (there are a few more but the four above are popular with tourists).

Promenade des Anglais Coastal Road

The Promenade des Anglais is a coastal road for walking along the sea about 7km long in Nice, it is a great place to stroll, watch the sea, cool off, relax for locals and tourists. The place attracts a lot of domestic and foreign tourists to visit. You will be immersed in the fresh, pleasant natural space, enjoy the sea breeze, watch the waves from afar, …

Along this road are restaurants, cafes, shops, hotels, etc. From the Promenade des Anglais, visitors can also easily navigate the direction of attractions. The locals call this street is Promenade or La Prom.

Old Town (Vieux Nice)

Vieux Nice is a small old quarter loved by both tourists and residents in Nice. The old town captivates visitors with its cobblestone streets, typical Mediterranean houses, unique local markets, etc. They bring with historical values as well as distinctive cultural features.

Like Italy and Spain, Nice has narrow Mediterranean-style streets surrounded by tall houses painted in warm colors like red, yellow, pastel and ocher. These Mediterranean-style poetic old streets will remind you of the streets of Hanoi built in the French era.

Place Massena

It is the Nice’s main square, located between the Old Town and New Town. The fountain in the middle of the square depicts stories from Greek mythology, with a 7-meter-tall statue of Apollo in the center. Around the square are old buildings painted red with blue windows typical for the Mediterranean region.

Massena Square (Place de Massena) is a place that visitors can go back and forth many times when visiting Nice because the location of the square is almost in the center compared to the sightseeing areas, this is also the main square. Place Massena is the site of many major events in Nice such as the Christmas market and the French Independence Day parade.

Castle Hill (Colline du Château)

Inhabited by the Greeks two millennia ago, Castle Hill has now become a park with beautiful natural scenery and extremely romantic. When coming here, in addition to admiring the natural beauty of Castle Hill, you can also discover many other interesting and attractive landscapes such as: Baie des Anges, Vieille Ville and the harbour.

Castle Hill (Colline du Château) is a hill facing the sea. Most of Castle Hill’s original structures have been largely destroyed, and now it’s a park with trees, waterfalls, and some remains. However, it is a very interesting spot to visit.

Matisse Museum (Musée Matisse)

Address: Palais Fénelon, Pl. du Commandant Edouard Richez, 59360 Le Cateau-Cambrésis, France Hours: 10AM–6PM/Tuesday: Closed Established: 1952

The Matisse Museum is located in the Cimiez neighborhood of ​​Nice, close to the Regina hotel, where the painter Henri Matisse once lived. Matisse lived in Nice from 1918 to 1954. The building where the museum is housed is the Villa des Arenes, a 17th-century building in the Genoese style. This residence is also known as Gubernatis Palace after its owners and is set in a peaceful olive grove in Cimiez Gardens. This collection is one of Matisse’s largest in the world and shows the evolution of his art over time.

Henri Matisse draws inspiration from the vibrant colors and lines of the city of Nice to create masterpieces of art. Just look at a sketch of his balcony window, and you will surely see the Mediterranean coastline. The Musée Matisse is an art museum that houses many valuable collections. Currently, this museum has about 70 paintings, 56 sculptures, 236 designs and many very interesting sketches.

This large museum displays Matisse’s works from the early days to the end of his career. It can be said that this place bears the imprint of Henri Matisse. Art-loving visitors to Henri Matisse can get their hands on some of the artist’s masterpieces, as the museum’s souvenir shop sells numerous photographs of Matisse’s artwork.

Pathé Masséna Cinema

Address: 31 Av. Jean Médecin, 06000 Nice, France

The cinema is a house displaying photographic artworks, a separate building from the busy Avenue Jean Medecin. The museum specializes in global works, such as a portrait exhibition of famous Hollywood artists over the decades or a photo exhibition of American Indians. Free admission.

Archaeological Museum of Cimiez

Address: 160 Av. des Arènes de Cimiez, 06000 Nice, France

The Russians are not the first to devote themselves to the alluring beauty of Nice. The ancient Romans also considered this place as their homeland. Visitors to the museum can admire the ruins of the Colosseum, pedestrian streets and even very old public baths of the Roman period. The Archaeological Museum is a blend of the history and archeology of the region. The museum is located in the Nice Cimiez area (right next to the Matisse museum).

Rue De France Pedestrian Zone

Nice’s pedestrian zone is considered a “trap” to tourists. Because the shops here have many attractive forms, from the unique store layout, music, discounts, fashion products, to the cute service of the sales staff. Therefore, visitors who miss coming here cannot help but buy things for themselves or souvenirs for their loved ones.

This is a center of leisure and entertainment activities. Street performances are always take place in this area. For locals and tourists, this is an area for walking, skateboarding, rollerblading because there is no traffic. And of course eateries, cafes, clothing stores, book stores are indispensable. Enjoy a latte or munch on crêpes and watch the people pass by, or stop by the Rue de France for a hearty Italian meal. This is truly an ideal place for tourists.

Port of Nice

Nice’s port is an interesting place to visit. Just standing at a corner of Nice’s old town, near the Quai des Etát Unis street, visitors can watch the Corsian ferries leave. Although it is always busy with ships coming in and out, the boats anchored here are very orderly, neatly. Around the port are very crowded night clubs, busy shops and traffic.

The St Nicholas Orthodox Cathedral

Address: Av. Nicolas II, 06000 Nice, France Hours: 10AM–6PM/Sunday: 12–6PM Architectural style: Russian Revival architecture

In the mid-19th century, the Russians came to Nice to travel, trade and live. They needed a place to pray and that’s why the St Nicholas Orthodox Cathedral was built in Nice (French name: Cathédrale Orthodoxe Saint-Nicolas de Nice). It is the largest Russian Orthodox church in Western Europe.

The beach is one of the main attractions in Nice. Currently in Nice there are about 15 private beaches and 20 public beaches. There is a fee to enter the private beaches, guests are not allowed to bring in food or drinks. Public beaches are free but have no amenities.

Nice’s mild weather with clear blue skies and clear sea are what captivate and keep visitors. Nice has a coastline stretching 7km and in particular this coast is not made of sand but by pebbles and pebbles from the Var and Paillon rivers. With its emerald-green waters, Cote d’Azur beach looks like a landscape from a fairy tale.

Cours Saleya Flower Market

Address: Cr Saleya, 06300 Nice, France Hours: 6AM–5:30PM/Sunday: 6:30AM–1:30PM/Monday: Closed

Saleya Square is located parallel to the US harbor (Quai des Etats Unis). In the past, this was the residence of the rich in the city of Nice. The Palace of the Kings of Sardinia is also located in this square. When visiting the Saleya flower market, you can admire the colorful flowers and freely to choose, interspersed between the rows of flowers are stalls selling fresh vegetables and tubers with colorful trays of chili, fresh squash trays, not only that, here visitors can also enjoy the specialties of the region. This place is rated by visitors as a paradise of macarons and lavender.

Eze Village

This is the scene on my way to Eze Village, stopped at Bus 14 to play and wait for Bus 82 to continue to go, so I took this photo. But in my opinion, you should take Bus 84, get off at La Leopolda station, the scenery is very beautiful. You can stand here and wait for Bus 82 to continue.

Eze Village is an ancient village, up here you will see ancient French architecture, houses close together, like a castle with many families living together. Here, locals sell lavender flowers and perfumes, food and all kinds of things. Actually, I still prefer the scene by the roadside than the old village.

La Leopolda Station

That day, we took Bus 14 from Galibadi station to Col de Villefranche station, then got off to admire the scenery for a while and then took Bus 84 to continue to La Leopolda stop and waited for Bus 82 to go to Eze Village (this station is far from Eze Village only 3 stops, but the distance between 3 stops are long so it’s impossible to walk).

Especially the scene at La Leopolda station is very, very beautiful. I see a lot of cars stop at this station to take pictures and admire the scenery. Unfortunately, we didn’t notice that day, we went more than 1 station because we couldn’t find the stop button on Bus 84 (This bus has the same form as auto). So the two of us got lost on the highway and still had decided to walk back, because it took 30 minutes to wait for Bus 84 to return to the old place, so we risked going. Fortunately, going about 200m, me and my friend were transported to Eze Village by a local.

Nice France travel blog: What to eat?

Nice is quite close to Italy, so the dishes are also a fusion and influence between French and Italian cuisine.

Some popular dishes:

Salade Nicoise: Almost you go into any restaurant, any eatery, on their menu will have this wonderful dish. Salad with tomatoes, radishes, onions, black olives, hard-boiled eggs, tuna and anchovies mixed with olive oil. The recipe is quite simple, using this dish with a little wine will be much more attractive.

Coq au vin (French chicken stew): Coq au vin means “rooster in wine”. This is a delicacy in Nice that is loved by both locals and visitors. The dish is prepared quite elaborately, using delicious pieces of chicken marinated with spices and wine, so that the meat infuses the rich flavor. Then stewed with ingredients such as: Onion, garlic, butter, mushrooms, … to make the dish more attractive. This dish should be served with a special sauce to increase its attractive.

Steak Tartare: This is minced raw beef, mixed with onions, pepper, sauce and egg yolk, then served with rye bread. This is a rather picky dish, because if you are not used to it, it will be difficult to eat, but there are many people who eat it once and want to come back to enjoy it again.

Crepe: Referring to French cuisine in general and Nice in particular, it must be mentioned Crepe cake. Although it is just a simple cake made from flour, barley mixed with eggs, milk, butter, then thinly coated black, golden brown and served with cold cream, chocolate sauce, caramel,… but the taste of this cake will easily conquer the taste of diners.

Socca: A type of thin, unleavened pancake made from chickpea flour – a fairly popular dish in Nice.

Le Pan Bagnat: A sandwich filled with garlic, tuna, anchovies, sliced.

Pissaladière: A pizza-like pie but with onions, anchovies and olives on the ingredients.

La daube niçoise: Beef stew in red wine with onions, carrots and herbs.

Ratatouille: A vegetables stew dish, originally from Nice.

Soupe au pistou: A famous bean soup of Provençal.

The cost of dining in Nice is quite expensive, the average price for a regular meal will range from 9-13 EUR, dessert on the menu is 5-10 EUR, wine around 4-9 EUR/glass.

Nice France blog: Shopping

The shops in Nice are many: From small shops to large shopping malls, from souvenirs to high-end and luxury fashion brands. What to buy as a gift in Nice? Handicrafts, extra virgin olive oil and handmade soaps… are items often chosen by tourists. You can “get” them from anywhere: markets, souvenir shops in the old town… Or if you want to buy famous high-end appliances, you can go to the shopping places below.

Popular shopping places:

• Market: Selling many things from crafts, postcards, books, etc. The old town is full of shops.
• Cours Saleya Flower Market as mentioned above.
• Centre Commercial NICETOILE (Address: 30 Av. Jean Médecin, 06000 Nice, France)
• Galeries Lafayette Nice Masséna (Address: 6 Av. Jean Médecin, 06000 Nice, France)
• Polygone Riviera Shopping Center (Address: 119 Av. des Alpes, 06800 Cagnes-sur-Mer, France)
• Carrefour Nice Lingostière Shopping Center (Address: 202 Rte de Grenoble, 06200 Nice, France)
• Nice TNL shopping center (Address: 15 Bd Général Louis Delfino, 06300 Nice, France)

Nice France travel blog: Where to stay?

Traveling to Nice, visitors can stay at hostels, motels, budget or high-class hotels. Depending on the type of accommodation, the price will vary, for example, if staying in a hostel, the cost for a dorm bed is about 14 EUR/night, in a guesthouse or budget hotel, the price ranges from 35-40 EUR/room/night.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Hotel Monsigny ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hotel Le Negresco ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Mediterranee ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• easyHotel Nice Palais des Congres Vieux Nice ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hotel La Perouse ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hotel Aston La Scala ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

Check out more top and best hotels in Nice on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Nice France travel guide: Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Nice you can refer to

• French Riviera Full Day Tour from Nice
• The Best of the French Riviera Day Tour From Nice or Cannes
• Nice Segway Tour
• French Riviera Countryside Full Day Tour from Nice
• The Historical Nice City Half Day Tour from Nice, Cannes, or Monaco
• French Riviera Art de vivre 4-Hour Tour from Nice

Read more Paris travel guide here and France here .

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Nice Travel Guide: Tips for this French Riviera City

Looking for a nice Nice travel guide? (Get it? I know, I’m clever.) Since I just planned a weekend here, I’m putting all my best advice below!

Back when I was planning my big Asia and Europe trip, I knew my friend, Elissa, and I would want to plan at least one weekend in May for travel. She wanted to go somewhere in southern France, and we, luckily, ended up in Nice!

I say luckily because one of the other places we considered was Cannes, which would’ve coincided with the Cannes Film Festival and been a crowed nightmare. And if we had booked one weekend later, we’d have been competing with the Grand Prix in Monaco , which would’ve also been a crowded nightmare.

Anyway, I really didn’t have many expectations for Nice besides knowing I just wanted to walk around and relax, which is pretty much exactly what I did. It wound up being so lovely! Full of buildings designed to be French but colored to be Italian, there’s quite a bit to do, see, and eat, making it the perfect introduction to the French Riviera. If you’re planning some Nice travel, here’s all you need to know below.

Nice Travel Tips for First Time Visitors

A Brief History of Nice

Nice as we begin to know it first came about around 350 BC. Colonists from Phocaea in Greece began settling here and gave it the name Níkaia after Nike, the Greek goddess of victory. Given its prime location on the Ligurian coast, it became a bustling port city.

Despite being French now, much of Nice’s history during the Middle Ages actually has much more in common with the chaotic formation of Italy. It’s during these times that things like the Castle of Nice (Castle Hill) were built. From 1388 through 1860, Nice was tied to the Duchy of Savoy and even adopted Italian as its official administrative language in 1561 when the Duke abolished Latin.

This mix of Italian and French histories is most evident in the architecture! If you take a look at many of the buildings, you’ll notice the pastel colors are more reminiscent of other Italian Riviera cities. However the designs are still very much French.

This all ended with the Treaty of Turin in 1860, when the area was ceded to Napoleon III. Nice was again a part of France which also caused something called the Niçard exodus, where a many Nice locals left the city for other parts of Italy.

For the early part of the 1900s, Nice was pretty quiet. Two notable events happened when the Tramway de Nice was built and then when the city hosted Formula Libre, Formula One’s predecessor.

As with other European cities, Nice felt the effects of World War II in 30s and 40s. During the early, pre-Vichy Regime years, it provided a bit of a safe haven for Jews fleeing Nazi occupation. Later it would deal with both Mussolini’s Italy and Nazi Germany. Even during these takeovers, two men, Angelo Donati and Friar Père Marie-Benoît, helped thousands of Jews escape.

Post-World War II, which happened when American troops liberated the city in 1944, Nice began to grow more into the French Riviera resort town we know it as today. Jean Médecin, followed by his son Jacques, each held mayorship from 1928 to 1990. Although Jacques was later arrested for corruption, for the most part under their leadership the city grew and modernized.

It recently became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021 and sees thousands of visitors yearly.

When to Visit Nice

You know, Elissa and I visited in May when the weather sat around 70-80F and was really pleasant with just a touch of humidity. She learned from her tour that the weather is pretty lovely year round. The coldest months of January – March rarely drop below 50F and sometimes get as warm 70-80F. All that’s to say:

Plan your visit in the off season.

Elissa’s tour guide warned her that the city’s population quadruples in size during the summer months, which I think would make it a pretty unpleasant place to be. You’re not really going to want to relax on the beach here as there isn’t sand but full on rocks, so there’s no need to come in the hottest, most humid, and most crowded months of the year! Save Nice for the off season or even a shoulder season like we did with May, and you’ll have good weather and walk around without feeling claustrophobic.

Where to Stay in Nice

This really depends on which way you come into town and how much you want to lug your luggage around. Luckily Nice has pretty smooth pathways, so even if you have a kilometer to walk, you don’t have to worry about picking up your suitcases or breaking a wheel on cobblestone streets.

To figure out your ideal location, I want you to first imagine Nice on a map with the sea at the bottom and the train station at the top. The stretch along Avenue Jean Médecin is about a 15-minute walk.

If you come by train and want to walk as little as possible, then I’d stay somewhere along close by the station. Thinking we’d both take the train in, we picked the Hotel du Cent r e , which is a really cute little hotel with the most incredible view of the Notre-Dame de Nice. It’s maybe 5 minutes from the Gare de Nice-Ville.

However , we actually both flew in, which means we took the tram in from the airport. In this case, the drop off point is actually closer to the seaside in the south, so you’d be better off finding a hotel around there instead.

How to Get into Nice

If you come in by plane, you’ll arrive at the Nice Côte d’Azur Airport . It’s a pretty small airport and easy to navigate out of. From there, you can take the tram into town, and the whole thing should take around 30-40 minutes.

Pro Tip: Download the Nice Ticket app and just buy a ticket as needed there. Saves time and paper! Wish Paris had adopted something similar.

Like I mentioned above, Nice does have its own train station, the Gare de Nice-Ville , and it sits on the northern side of the main downtown area. It’s easy to walk to wherever you’re staying or need to go from there. You can book on SNCF’s site and if it’s showing sold out, try Omio . My friend found some open seats there when we were looking for another train in France.

How to Get Around Nice

For the most part, the best way to get around Nice is to simply walk. Nearly all of the main things to do and see are within walking distance, and, in fact, a car or the tram/bus would maybe save you 2-3 minutes max.

By tram/bus

For the few things right outside downtown Nice, you may want the tram or pus to get to. Use the same app, Nice Ticket, to buy a ticket and then use Google Maps to figure out your route.

If you want, Nice also has a public bike system known as vélobleu . I’m not familiar with it as we never rented them, but they seem pretty easy to use! Just download the E-vélobleu app .

Notable Sightseeing Places in Nice

If there’s one area that’s the core of what makes Nice charming, it’s the pastel facades of Vieux Nice (or Old Nice). The streets are narrow, the buildings pretty, and the restaurants and cafes abundant. The best way to enjoy it is to just stroll and snap away.

Apollo Fontaine & La Place Massena

If you ever get lost, this is the place you want to look for. Place Massena sits right before you get to the Promenade Anglais and the beaches. Its checkerboard-esque flooring is hard to miss. Though if you do somehow miss them, there’s still the Fountain of the Sun which features a statue of the Greek god, Apollo.

Castle of Nice

When it comes to Nice travel, this is the *main* sightseeing thing to do in Nice. The name, Castle of Nice, is a bit deceiving as it’s not really a castle but more of a park with the best aerial views over the city. Don’t let the stairs scare you – there’s a free elevator that’ll take you right to the top!

The Beaches

While the beaches in Nice aren’t exactly the best for sunbathing, they are still lovely to hang out at. The free beach has nothing in the way of rentals (missed business opportunity if you ask me), but there are two paid beaches that have loungers, umbrellas, and towel rentals. We booked a day pass at Castel Plage , which I’d recommend!

Just a warning, you’ll probably want actual water shoes if you plan on swimming. Getting in and out of the water is no joke.

Cours Saleya Market

Just look for the brightly striped tents of Cours Saleya in Vieux Nice for a fun, outdoor market! Everyday except Monday, you can find a flower and food market and then on Mondays, you can find an antiques market.

Get whatever fruit is in season and enjoy the fresh snack down by the beach! Also most stalls take credit card, which I was pleasantly surprised by.

Port Lympia

Another notable spot in Nice is Port Lympia , the city’s main port. It’s cool to see, though it loses some charm with all the modern looking yachts and boats.

Where to Eat in Nice

I admittedly did not eat very locally in Nice. By the time I got there I’d already spent about a week in France and was craving Asian food as well as quick, easy food (I caved and got a cheeseburger at McDonald’s on my way back to my hotel). French dining is lovely, but sometimes you don’t want to sit and relax for hours while you eat, ya know?

Anyway here’s where I ate and also wanted to eat but didn’t wind up visiting.

TIP: Honestly my favorite meal was when Elissa and I got some picnic supplies and carried them over to where the #ILoveNICE sign is. It’s on a cape, there’s seating all around, and you can’t beat the view. We went to the market to pick up cheese and strawberries, and then we found a boulangerie for a fresh baguette and waters. Absolute perfection!

Restaurants for Lunch or Dinner

Note that I found all the service at these spots friendly! If anyone sucked below, I would’ve probably just left and written a warning about going to the place lol.

• Maido (near Vieux Nice) – Cute spot for Japanese street food-esque dishes like okonomiyaki . Very casual and lively.
• Bistrot d’Antoine (Vieux Nice) – French bistro with really good food. Recommend getting the meat of the day, I’m dreaming about that duck breast. Elissa got the braised pork cheeks casserole and gave it her stamp of approval too – it reminded me a lot of my favorite bo kho in Saigon!
• La Langouste (near Notre Dame) – I went here on my last night when I was alone and after my first pick was full! Very delightful surprise as the seating is in the back patio and the food was delicious. Another spot I got duck breast and am salivating remembering it.

Other Places I Didn’t Go:

• Lavomatique – Really wanted to go here but was just too tired to walk back to Vieux Nice on my last night. It’s set in an old laundromat and the food looks incredible. Two reviews mentioned it would probably be a Michelin star restaurant someday.
• Fournil Zielinska – Sourdough lovers rejoice! We happened to walk by this sourdough bakery when it was closed, but it had to save it because it looked so nice.

Cafes & Dessert Stops

• AZZURRO Aristan Glacier – Busy gelato spot. It was pretty good! Not sure if you’d want to wait in line for it, though.
• Hug Cafe – this cafe was attached to our hotel, so we got breakfast here. The hotel breakfast is okay but the actual food the cafe has looked really good, so next time I’d just get that.
• cafe fino – Trendy cafe on the same street as Maido. I remember breakfast was nice and Elissa liked her egg mcmuffin, though she ordered it with skepticism.
• The Service Course Nice – A bike shop/cafe in Vieux Nice. They offer up milk alternatives, so I got a nice iced almond milk latte and vegan banana bread while sitting outside and relaxing.

Didn’t Go:

• Clay – Cafe near Quartier du Port. Looks like a nice breakfast spot!
• Cafés Indien – Elissa stumbled across this when she was wandering (I was tired and sleeping lol).
• Marinette – Another cute cafe in Vieux Nice that looks like it has some nice breakfast and sweet options.

Day Trips from Nice

If you want to explore more of the French Riviera, there are plenty of cool day and half-day trips you can take from Nice. I wanted to relax, so I didn’t go anywhere, but Elissa did a half-day trip to Monaco, which she said she liked. Monaco itself was kinda bleh, but the tour was cool and she learned a bit more about Grace Kelly on it.

Here are some other tours you could do:

Italian Dolce Vita & Menton

I actually forgot about Menton until it was too late! It’s been on my colorful places bucket list for ever, so I’ll just have to save it for a future riviera trip. Book Here

Gorges du Verdon & Fields of Lavender

This full day tour is for anyone who comes in June and wants to try and see the lavender fields. The Gorges of Verdon are these incredible canyons with aquamarine waters and, of course, the lavender fields of southern France are pretty much photo famous these days. Book Here

French Riviera in One Day

If have limited time and want to see as much of the Côte d’Azur as possible, this tour will go from Nice to Èze, Monaco, Antibes, Saint-Paul de Vence, and then Cannes in one very full day. Book Here

Éze, Monaco, & Monte Carlo

For something a little less intense and only half the day, you can do Éze, Monaco, and Monte Carlo. Book Here

Saint Tropez & Port Grimaud

If you’ve always been curious about the glamorous Saint Tropez, than this should be a cool tour (actually one I’d consider on a future visit if I don’t just go straight there myself). You’ll actually take a boat trip to Port-Grimaud before going to Saint Tropez! Book Here

Shopping in Nice

This is one of those moments where I wished I lived in France and also had an expendable bank account so I could just shop to my heart’s content. There are a ton of cute boutique shops and, of course, the antique market on Monday is every vintage lover’s dream.

I did manage to snag a cute boater hat after Elissa found a nice shop for hers but otherwise didn’t buy anything as I purposely left myself very, very limited space.

There’s also, of course, a ton of regular shopping. Along the main avenue you can find a giant H&M and Sephora; plus all the pharamacies for those of you who want to pick up some iconic French skincare products!

Safety & Health in Nice

I found Nice to feel pretty safe over all, and I walked around at all times of day and all over both with Elissa and totally by myself. Naturally, as it’s more of a city than a town, you’re going to still want to keep an eye on your belongings and not get too cavalier with it all.

One thing that’s that’s really annoying with Nice travel but is endemic in all of France is the casual smoking everywhere outside. I think it’s one of those things that’s slowly improving, but just know that if you eat outside, you also risk being in someone’s smoke path, which is incredibly annoying.

And that’s all my best advice for some nice Nice travel (get it, haha). Let me know if you have any questions below, and I’ll do my best to help!

For more France travel, read these next:

• Visiting Colmar Feels Exactly Like Entering a Storybook
• A Weekend in Paris is ALWAYS a Good Idea if You Follow this Guide
• 16 Splendid Things to Do in Strasbourg
• 13 Magical French Pharmacy Skincare Products You’ve Gotta Try

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Thank you for all your helpful travel tips for Nice. I am traveling 7 May to 14. I have a day trip to Cannes, Monaco, perfumery etc. My question is where can I get cool boater hat there. My hotel is Hotel de Suede, on Avenue de Suede. Kind regards,

Hi Lisa! I wish I could remember the exact store but my friend and I found ours at one of the shops near Cours Saleya Market. When I googled I found La Chapellerie which looks like where we went! Hope that helps!

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How to plan the perfect France road trip: itineraries, accommodation & budget

Embarking on a France road trip is an adventure that will take you through the country’s history and to breathtaking panoramas as well as culinary treasures. From the grandeur of Paris to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean, from the snow-capped peaks of the Alps to the rolling vineyards of Burgundy, France unfolds like a fairytale.

I put together four road trip itineraries for you to explore. This guide is your compass for unexpected experiences and moments of pure escapism on French roads. Get ready for an unforgettable road trip and see some of the best places in France.

The best time for your road trip in France

The diversity of the French climates opens up a variety of possibilities each season, shaping unique experiences across the country. Whether you're looking for the promise of spring, the exuberance of summer, or the shimmering colors of fall, each time of the year has its own magic.

• Spring (March-May): As nature awakens, the country roads are dotted with flowers. Spring is indeed the perfect time to travel through the Loire Valley and see its castles during a week-long road trip in France. It is also a great time for a journey on the wine route in Burgundy, with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
• Summer (June–August): The high season attracts crowds to the beaches and tourist towns. To avoid the influx, opt for a road trip to less traveled regions like Brittany. Also think about the perched villages of Provence during a trip in France, where the lavender fields are in full bloom.
• Autumn (September–November): Enjoy the flamboyant colors and bountiful harvests on an autumnal France road trip. This is the perfect time to explore the Burgundy wine route or for a culinary adventure in the Dordogne with local events and mild temperatures.
• Winter (December–February): Although it may be cold, it is a good time to visit the Christmas markets in Strasbourg or for an excursion to the Alps when snowy landscapes and ski resorts beckon.

Away from the hustle and bustle of summer, the Côte d'Azur reveals itself fully at the end of spring and the beginning of autumn. For those with less time, a road trip to the south of France in five days promises an immersion in the azure blue of the Mediterranean. In addition, the picturesque landscapes of Provence and the unique architecture of the villages of the Riviera await.

Plan your budget for an unforgettable road trip in France

Budgeting wisely is essential for a successful trip. If you’re planning a road trip in France for 7 days, you should expect the following:

Car rental: €532 (about $568) on average for 7 days*

Mid-range double hotel room: €250 (about $266) on average per night in Paris* and €129 (about $137) on average in Marseille *.

Hostel: €124 (about $132) per night on average in Paris* and €53 (about $56) on average in Lyon*

Gas: approx. €75 (about $80) to cover 370 km (229 miles) based on a cost of €6.85 per gallon in May 2024, according to numbeo.com .

*These prices are based on data collected by KAYAK comparing hundreds of accommodation and car rental websites.

The budget for the 7-day road trip in the South of France suggested below is therefore around €1,510 (about $1,600) for two people (including the 7 nights in a double hotel room, car rental and gas), or roughly €750 ($800) per person.

For explorers considering doing a 2-week France road trip double these estimates. This way you can add more stops and explore even further! Adjustments, such as alternative accommodations or optimized itineraries, can also extend your adventure without adding too much to the budget. Want an extra long getaway? Consider booking a car rental for a month as prices are often decreasing when you book for a longer period.

How to get to France?

At the moment you can only get direct flights to Paris Charles de Gaulle or Nice Côte d’Azur from the US. Round trip flights from NYC to Paris cost on average $794 and you can count $1070 for a round trip flight from LAX to Paris.

If you are already in Europe you can also fly into Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, Nantes, or Strasbourg. From these airports, you can get your road trip rental car or take public transport to the starting point of your France road trip.

The right car for your France road trip

Choosing the right type of rental car for your France road trip is an important step. To zip between vineyards or across villages, a compact city car is enough. On the other hand, if traveling long stretches on the highway or for groups, a spacious sedan or SUV is essential.

Make sure your choice includes GPS, important for easy navigating from one point of interest to another.

A sunny road trip in the south of France

The scents of lavender, terraced vineyards, and the song of cicadas guide you on this road trip to the south of France, promising wonder and discovery at every turn.

Day 1 – Marseille: Mediterranean soul (1 night)

Immerse yourself in the excitement that is Marseille with a visit to the MUCEM Museum and a stroll through the historic Panier district. Don’t forget to climb to the top of the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica for a breathtaking view of the city.

Where to stay in Marseille: Hermes Hotel is ideally located near the Old Port, offering modern rooms with balconies to admire the sunset over the city.

Day 2 – Cassis: Charm & coves (1 night)

Distance from Marseille: 22 km (13 miles), 30 min drive

Discover Cassis, a jewel between cliffs and crystal clear waters. Stroll around the port, enjoy an artisanal ice cream, and go by boat to explore the famous creeks and coves.

Where to stay in Cassis: Choose the Hotel Le Golfe for its picturesque atmosphere and perfect location very close to the port and the beach.

Day 3 – Saint-Tropez: Chic meets tradition (1 night)

Distance from Cassis: 146 km (90 miles), approx. 2.5 hours drive

Saint-Tropez has the charm of a Provençal village with a touch of glamor. Visit the Annonciade museum, stroll around the Place des Lices, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the port.

Where to stay in Saint-Tropez: Hotel Les Palmiers lies hidden in a quiet alley and is an intimate address that has preserved the original Saint-Tropez spirit.

Day 4 – Nice: Art at the Riviera (1 night)

Distance from Saint-Tropez: 110 km (68 miles), approx. 2 hours drive

In Nice, stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, explore old Nice and its colorful markets and don't miss the panorama from the Colline du Château park.

Where to stay in Nice: Hotel Le Negresco is the emblem of the city and offers a historic and luxurious waterfront experience. Hotel Nice Côte d’Azur offers a cheaper but comfortable alternative in the city center.

Day 5 – Monaco: Royal brilliance (1 night)

Distance from Nice: 21 km (13 miles), 30 min drive

Monaco amazes with the Prince's Palace, the exotic garden, and its famous casino. Taste luxury life in the principality and admire the yachts in the harbor.

Where to stay in Monaco: The Fairmont Monte Carlo offers an unforgettable experience with views over the Formula 1 circuit and the Mediterranean.

Day 6 – Menton: Serenity & lemons (1 night)

Distance from Monaco: 13 km (8 miles), 20 min drive

Menton, the pearl of France, invites you with lush gardens, peaceful beaches, and the Jean Cocteau museum.

Where to stay in Menton: The Napoleon Hotel with its contemporary art and sea-facing location is an oasis of tranquility.

Day 7 – Grasse: Scent of Provence (1 night)

Distance from Menton: 60 km (37 miles), approx. 1 hour drive

End this road trip in France in Grasse, the city of perfume. Visit its perfumeries, the international perfume museum, and stroll through its streets steeped in history.

Where to stay in Grasse: The B&B Lou Candelou , nestled in the Grasse countryside, promises a fragrant and authentic end to your stay.

To fully appreciate each moment, don’t hesitate to get off the beaten track. Even small roads can offer breathtaking panoramas and authentic encounters. Take the time to stop at a small cellar for a wine tasting or at a farm for a picnic with local products. It’s in these spontaneous moments that the true beauty of a France road trip is revealed.

Between ocean and sea: a road trip on France's west coast

The French Atlantic coast, nicknamed Côte d’Argent (Silver Coast), offers kilometers of beaches, historic towns, and unforgettable gastronomy, promising an escape rich in discovery and relaxation.

Day 1 – Nantes: The city of a thousand facets (1 night)

Start this road trip on the west coast of France in Nantes, a city where history meets innovation. Visit the Machines of the Island, the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and stroll through the Jardin des Plantes.

Where to stay in Nantes: The Hotel Voltaire Opera in the heart of Nantes is recommended for comfort, affordable prices, and as a perfect location for urban explorers.

Day 2 – La Baule: seaside chic (1 night)

Distance from Nantes: 80 km (50 miles), approx. 1 hour drive

La Baule welcomes you with one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Enjoy a stroll along the seafront, a sailing session or a fresh seafood tasting.

Where to stay in La Baule: The Adonis La Baule is ideal for its location near the beach and its amenities, ensuring comfort for all travelers.

Day 3 – Vannes: Jewel of Brittany (1 night)

Distance from La Baule: 80 km (50 miles), approx. 1 hour drive

Explore Vannes with its medieval ramparts, charming port, and the vibrant market on Place des Lices. Finally, don’t miss a visit to the Vannes Aquarium, a fascinating window to Breton marine life.

Where to stay in Vannes: The Golfe Hotel is known for its view of the gulf and easy access to the historic center. It is perfect for a relaxing night during your France road trip.

Day 4 – Quiberon: Nature & terroir (1 night)

Distance from Vannes: 45 km (28 miles), approx. 1 hour drive

In Quiberon, walk over the wild peninsula, visit the local curing workshops, and admire a sunset over the Côte Sauvage. You also have to take a break in a traditional creperie to taste Breton pancakes thus rounding up your experience of local culture.

Where to stay in Quiberon: The Europa Hotel offers sea views and a wellness area as well as a relaxing and unforgettable experience.

Day 5 – Concarneau: The fortified city (1 night)

Distance from Quiberon: 150 km (93 miles), approx. 2.5 hours drive

Concarneau enchants with the Ville Close (a walled town), maritime museums, and beautiful walks along the quays. Don’t forget to savor the local specialties at one of the many waterfront restaurants. The freshly caught seafood promises a memorable culinary experience in the right setting!

Where to stay in Concarneau: The Citotel De France Et D'europe offers a friendly atmosphere and is an ideal location for exploring the fortified city.

Day 6 – Brest: Ocean adventure (1 night)

Distance from Concarneau: 100 km (62 miles), approx. 1.5 hours drive

Then discover Brest with its rich naval history, the famous Océanopolis aquarium, and the panoramic view you get from the cable car.

Where to stay in Brest: The Hôtel Oceania Brest Centre is popular because it is central and comfortable - ideal for a stopover!

Day 7 – Saint-Malo: Privateers & great horizons (1 night)

Distance from Brest: 250 km (155 miles), approx. 3.5 hours drive

Finally, end this road trip in France in Saint-Malo with its historic ramparts, vast beaches, and tasty local cuisine.

Where to stay in Saint-Malo: The Hotel Ambassadors is a luxurious choice by the sea and has elegant, maritime rooms.

My advice for this route is to follow the rhythm of the tides. In Brittany and Normandy, coastal landscapes are radically transformed by the tides. Plan your journeys accordingly to discover hidden treasures like islands accessible only at low tide or spectacular views of cliffs revealed at high tide.

A charming 3-day road trip from Paris

Leave the hustle and bustle of the French capital behind to embrace the tranquility of the surrounding rural landscapes and rich heritage - all within a few hours' drive.

Day 1 – Versailles: Royal splendors (1 night)

Just a short distance from Paris , Versailles dazzles with its incredible castle and impeccable gardens. Explore the royal apartments, lose yourself in a maze of groves, and admire the almost sparkling Hall of Mirrors.

Where to stay in Versailles: Hotel Le Versailles offers an elegant and peaceful setting, a few steps from the castle. It is perfect for extending the royal experience into your dreams.

Day 2 – Giverny: brushes & petals (1 night)

Distance from Versailles: 65 km (40 miles), approx. 1 hour drive

The soul of Monet awaits in Giverny. Visit his colorful house and gardens that seem straight out of his paintings. The water lily pond and the Japanese bridge are must-sees for art and nature lovers.

Where to stay in Giverny: La Dime de Giverny is a charming guest house and is recommended for its picturesque atmosphere and garden where time seems to stand still.

Day 3 – Chartres: Gothic lights (1 night)

Distance from Giverny: 75 km (46 miles), approx. 1 hour drive

A reasonable distance from Giverny, Chartres offers a journey through time thanks to the famous Notre-Dame Cathedral, a jewel of Gothic architecture. The town itself is a hidden treasure with cobbled streets and half-timbered houses.

Where to stay in Chartres: The Best Western Premier Grand Monarque Hotel & Spa offers luxury and comfort with an ideal location for exploring the city and the majestic cathedral.

Road trip in the footsteps of the Cathars

Go on an unforgettable road trip in the southwest of France. Follow the path of the castles and fortresses of the Cathar Country. This historic route winds through the hills and valleys of Languedoc-Roussillon, rich in legends and history.

Day 1 – Carcassonne: the fortified city (1 night)

Immerse yourself in the history of Carcassonne. Its medieval ramparts and imposing citadel are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the towers and bastions and learn about the legend of Lady Carcas before tasting local dishes at a traditional inn.

Where to stay in Carcassonne: Choose the Hotel de la Cité , an enchanting castle located in the heart of the citadel. It has a historic atmosphere and breathtaking views of the ramparts.

Day 2 – Albi: The Red City (1 night)

Distance from Carcassonne: 106 km (66 miles), approx. 1.5 hours drive

Admire the beauty of Albi, nicknamed the Red City for its terracotta bricks. Visit the majestic Sainte-Cécile Cathedral and the Toulouse-Lautrec museum before you stroll along the banks of the Tarn.

Where to stay in Albi: The Hotel Alchimy is located in a restored art-deco building. It offers modern comfort, an excellent restaurant, and is close to the main sights of the city.

Day 3 – Cordes-sur-Ciel: celestial village (1 night)

Distance from Albi: 25 km (15 miles), 30 min drive

Finally, ascend to the sky by visiting Cordes-sur-Ciel, a hilltop village that seems to float above the clouds. Discover the artisan workshops, cobbled streets, and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Where to stay in Cordes-sur-Ciel: The Maison Bakéa is a medieval residence. It welcomes you to a setting steeped in history and has inviting rooms that have retained their old-world charm.

Disclaimer: The hotel recommendations included in this article are based on customer ratings and the author's personal choices, so please feel free to use our hotel search tool to find the accommodation best suited to your needs.

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France #2: Exploring Arles

• Posted on May 31, 2024
• Notes from the Field
• France 2024

Rory ’26, describes a rich and vibrant exploration of Arles.

After a long two days of traveling, today was the group’s first full day in Arles! We started the morning off at Arles À La Carte with a quick orientation sharing the things we found different or strange from the United States. There was a consensus among the group that the thing we found the strangest in France is that, for most, dinner time is at 8pm, rather than 6pm, like we are used to.

Afterwards, we continued to explore the rich and narrow streets of Arles, starting off in the Roquette neighborhood and arriving at Le Place Voltaire just in time for lunch. Le Place Voltaire is a beautiful square right in the city center with a few outdoor bistros. Walking tours passed by as we ate veal, hamburgers, and pasta carbonara at the Café Pitchounet. After a long and filling lunch we walked to the outskirts of the city to Arles’ Antique Museum or, by the locals, musée bleu because of its vibrant blue exterior. The museum contains the complex history of the origins of Arles during the Ancient era when it belonged to the Roman Empire. Natalia Puglia, one of our professors at Arles À La Carte, joined us and gave us a very detailed tour of the museum. After a packed day of activities we were set free into the city for an hour of free time, before returning to our homestay families for the night.

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Is it safe to travel to France? The latest advice

T he French government has raised its terror alert to the highest possible level, “emergency”, following the terror attack in Moscow that left more than 135 people dead.

French prime minister Gabriel Attal said the decision was taken “in light of the Islamic State’s claiming responsibility for the [Moscow] attack and the threats weighing on our country”.

France’s terror threat system has three levels. The highest level is announced if there is a terrorist attack in France or overseas, or if an attack on French soil is considered to be imminent.

France was already on high alert for potential terrorist attacks, with the Paris Olympics and Paralympics due to take place in the capital this summer.

The updated terror alert comes just days before the UK Easter school holidays, when thousands of British holidaymakers will travel across the Channel for a getaway.

What is the Foreign Office advice for France?

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) France advice, which was last updated on February 20, reads: “There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.”

“Methods of attack have included knife attacks, shootings, bombings and vehicle attacks. Be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local French authorities,” the FCDO adds.

The FCDO lists shopping centres, entertainment establishments, cultural events, public transport and places of worship as settings where “indiscriminate” terrorism attacks could take place.

Check the France FCDO page for the latest advice.

What happened in the Moscow terror attack?

On Friday, terrorists carried out an attack at the Crocus City Hall on the outskirts of Moscow, killing at least 137 and injuring 140.

Four men, all of whom are citizens of Tajikistan, have been formally charged with committing a group terrorist attack. The attack has been claimed by the Afghanistan-based Islamic State Khorasan Province (IS-K) group.

On March 7, the United States warned its citizens in Russia that extremists had “imminent plans to target large gatherings in Moscow” and specifically mentioned concert venues. It advised Americans to avoid large gatherings.

What should I do if I get caught up in a terrorist attack?

Britain’s counter-terrorism police gives advice on what to do in the event of an emergency . This includes to run to a place of safety: “This is better than trying to surrender or negotiate.” To hide: “It is better to hide than confront. Barricade yourself in, turn your phone to silent and use only when it is safe to do so.” And to tell: “Make sure you know the local emergency numbers in the country you are travelling to. For all EU countries call 112.”

Have there been recent terrorist attacks in France?

There have been a number of terrorist attacks in France over the past decade. In January 2015, eight cartoonists, two guests and two police officers were murdered at the offices of the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo . The gunmen identified as belonging to al-Qaeda.

In November that year, in the deadliest terrorist attack in French history, 131 people were killed and 413 were injured in a series of shooting and grenade attacks at the Bataclan music venue, near the Stade de France and at several restaurants and bars across Paris. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attacks.

In July 2016, 86 people were killed and 434 injured in Nice after a 19-tonne cargo truck was driven into crowds during Bastille Day celebrations on the Promenade des Anglais in Nice. Again Islamic State claimed responsibility.

What if I want to cancel my trip to France?

If you have booked a package holiday to France and want to cancel your trip for any reason, contact your tour operator and they might offer flexibility with alternative dates. 

But bear in mind that, because the Foreign Office has not issued any advice against travel to France, there is no guarantee that you will receive a refund, nor will you be able to claim money back with your travel insurance company.

If you have booked flights and accommodation independently, and wish to cancel your holiday, contact your travel providers as soon as possible to see if you can rearrange your plans. Note, however, that given the circumstances, it is unlikely you will receive a full refund.

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Air France KLM Flying Blue: Promo Rewards for June 2024

The Air France KLM Flying Blue loyalty program is well-known for its monthly rotating series of Promo Rewards, which offer 25–50% discounts on short-haul and long-haul redemptions on Air France and KLM flights.

The program has just released its Promo Rewards for June 2024, and this time, there are discounts available for economy flights to destinations across the world, including North America.

If you’re looking for an affordable way to get to or from Europe and beyond between now and the end of November 2024, be sure to take a look at the Promo Rewards this month, especially since Flying Blue recently adjusted award pricing in a favourable manner. 

What Are Flying Blue Promo Rewards?

Promo Rewards are a major perk to being a member of Air France KLM Flying Blue . Promo Rewards are released monthly and offer 25–50% off in select markets on Air France & KLM flights in various classes of service.

This month’s list of long-haul KLM Promo Rewards includes:

• 25% discount on KLM economy awards between Europe and Aruba (18,750 miles)
• 25% discount on KLM economy awards between Europe and Bonaire (18,750 miles)
• 25% discount on KLM economy awards between Europe and Boston (15,000 miles)
• 25% discount on KLM economy awards between Europe and Houston (15,000 miles)
• 25% discount on KLM economy awards between Europe and New York (15,000 miles)

This month’s long-haul Air France Promo Rewards include:

• 25% discount on Air France economy awards between Europe and Havana (18,750 miles)
• 25% discount on Air France economy awards between Europe and Phoenix (15,000 miles)
• 25% discount on Air France economy awards between Europe and San Jose (18,750 miles)
• 25% discount on Air France economy awards between Europe and Shanghai (18,750 miles)
• 25% discount on Air France economy awards between Europe and Seattle (15,000 miles)
• 25% discount on Air France economy awards between Europe and Washington DC (15,000 miles)

In addition to the 14 long-haul Promo Rewards, there are 12 short-haul Promo Rewards available for intra-European travel.

Last fall, Air France KLM Flying Blue harmonized standard award pricing , which means that the minimum price you’ll pay for flights from North America to Europe is the same whether you fly from Boston or Vancouver: 

• Economy: starting at 20,000 miles (15,000 miles with a 25% Promo Reward)
• Premium economy: starting at 30,000 miles (26,250 miles with a 25% Promo Reward)
• Business class: starting at 50,000 miles (37,500 miles with a 25% Promo Reward)

Promo Reward tickets are available for one-way and round-trip flights, allowing for flexibility in your travel plans. Promo Reward discounts are only applicable on the lowest standard award pricing when available, and not on dynamically priced flight segments.  

Keep in mind that Flying Blue Promo Rewards come with a booking deadline. You must book the June 2024 Promo Rewards during the month of June; however, the travel window extends all the way through November 30, 2024.

How to Earn Flying Blue Miles

You can earn Air France KLM Flying Blue miles by booking flight tickets on Air France, KLM, and its SkyTeam partners.

Additionally, in Canada, you can transfer Amex MR points at a 1:0.75 ratio, which can be earned via the entire suite of American Express Membership Rewards credit cards.  

There’s also the Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard by Brim Financial, which currently offers a welcome bonus of up to 60,000 Flying Blue miles.

If you have access to US credit cards , you can also transfer Amex US MR points , Bilt Rewards , Chase Ultimate Rewards , Citi ThankYou Rewards , and Capital One Miles to Flying Blue at a 1:1 ratio to pool your Canadian- and US-sourced Flying Blue miles in the same account.

Furthermore, you can apply for the Bank of America Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard, and earn a welcome bonus of 50,000 miles.

Lastly, when you transfer 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points to Flying Blue, you’ll get a bonus of 5,000 miles on top of the usual 3:1 ratio, for a total of 25,000 Flying Blue miles.  

Overall, Flying Blue is a program that is rapidly growing in prominence for points collectors, especially with regular Promo Rewards, credit card partnerships, and competitive award pricing.

Previous Promotions

As you decide whether this promotion is a good opportunity for you to meet your travel goals, here’s a look back at Air France KLM’s past Promo Rewards:

Conclusion 

With rotating 25–50% discounts across its route network, Air France KLM Flying Blue’s monthly Promo Rewards can be a great way to save miles if you’re planning a trip to, from, or through Europe.

This month, there are fewer deals than what we’ve seen in previous months; however, you can fly in economy to Europe from North America at a nice discount.

If you’re based in Canadian cities served by Air France and KLM, such as Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City, and Toronto, then hopefully it won’t be long until we see some Promo Rewards to these cities again. 

• Earn  10,000 Flying Blue miles upon first purchase
• Plus, earn 10,000 Flying Blue miles when you spend $5,000
• And, earn 10,000 more Flying Blue miles when you spend another $10,000
• And, earn 30,000 Flying Blue miles when you renew your card for a second year
• Get 60 XP in the first year, plus 30 XP in subsequent years
• Earn 5 Flying Blue miles per euro spent on Air France KLM flights
• Earn 2 Flying Blue miles per dollar spent on food and drink
• Earn 1 Flying Blue mile per dollar spent everywhere else
• Minimum income: $80,000 personal or $150,000 household
• Annual fee: $132

Unfortunately, the announced discount on business flights between Toronto and Europe are nowhere to be found. The lowest available for Toronto and any European destination is 50000 instead of the announced 37500.

The pricing has been updated now, and you should be able to find flights for 37,500 points throughout the schedule.

Thank you, T.J.!

I was just going to post an update! It took me a few emails of back and forth to explain to our friends at Flying Blue that there actually was an issue. I don’t know if it was these emails that made the difference, but I am glad to see that the prices have been updated!

Thanks again!

Be ready to pay your BRIM/Flying Blue card off each month with manual bill pay. Currently no facility for pre-authorized monthly payment.

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Strasbourg Travel Guide

Looking to spend your next vacation in a youthful and genteel French city? Then this Strasbourg Travel Blog will help fall in love with the beautiful city of Strasbourg. With a flux of deep French and German cultures, Strasbourg is a genuinely European city. Its multicultural landscape is enriched by various influences that have helped formed a bridge between the past and present. And with this excellent mix of tradition and modernity, Strasbourg’s architecture will surely inspire you.

With its progressive values, Strasbourg is rightly revered as Europe’s beating heart. And as you will see, Strasbourg promotes peace, democracy, and reconciliation. From heavily themed collections to unique exhibitions to poignant artworks; there is always more that Strasbourg has to offer with its museums. 

Situated on the Rhine River in eastern France, Strasbourg is the capital of Alsace. Close to the German border, the city has a strong German connection. Whether you are traveling alone or in a company, there are many things to see and do in Strasbourg. Let’s take a look at this Strasbourg Travel Blog!

Basic Info About Strasbourg

Strasbourg  is the capital of the Alsace region of France. It is located in the Rhine valley, 488km (303 miles) southeast of Paris, and 217km (135 miles) southwest of Frankfurt. It has a population of approximately 650,000 inhabitants and hosts some important European institutions; the Council of Europe, the European Court of Human Rights, the European Ombudsman, the European Parliament, and others.

Strasbourg  is one of France’s major ports and is the seat of the Central Commission for Navigation on the Rhine. It is renowned for its beautiful historical center, the Grande Île (“Grand Island”), which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. At the end of the 19th century,  Strasbourg  became part of Germany but reverted back to France in 1918.  Strasbourg  is located on the French border and has a lot of influence from other countries such as Germany, Italy, and Spain. The German town across the Rhine is Kehl.

Strasbourg  is a unique city, it has a combination of French and German culture that is shaped in its ancient buildings and in the architecture of the city. Definitively a very good destination to visit when you are in France.

Here Is a Guide to The Top Tourist Attractions in Strasbourg :

Petite france (little france).

Petite France is one of the most charming old towns in Europe; its medieval half-timbered buildings that have been standing since the 16th and 17th centuries. Long ago, because of the water, fishermen, millers, and tanners used to live and work there. Little France attracts locals and tourists too as it is reserved for pedestrians and cyclists, so they can relish the calm of the place.

This incredible area is also the home of Strasbourg’s famous attractions like the Pont Couverts. And with its cobblestone streets and beautiful canals, Petite France is a perfect side to stroll and immerse in the historic ambiance. To taste the goodness of Alsace, stop at one of the many restaurants, and order some magnificent native delicacies.

The best way to visit La Petite France is on foot. With some of the roofs havening opening to air the attics, this historic quarter of the city has quaint canals as that of its impressive features. 

>>Also Read: Is Strasbourg Worth Visiting?

Strasbourg Cathedral

Conspicuous and beautiful, the Strasbourg Cathedral used to be the tallest building in the world for about 227 years until in 1874. That is when the St. Mary’s Church Stralsund, Germany was built, and its reign came to an end. This gorgeous Cathedral still holds on to the honor of being the highest building to have been built entirely during the medieval period that is still standing today. Regarded by many to be one of the most eye-catching Gothic European cathedrals, Strasbourg cathedral ranks sixth as the tallest church in the world. 

The Cathedral is a masterpiece of Romanesque and Gothic architecture and a beautiful interior, with stained glass windows that have remained since the 12th and the 14th centuries. This splendid Cathedral built out of red Vosges sandstone took many centuries to complete and showcases a decent range of architectural styles from the 12th-century Romanesque to 15th- century lathe Gothic. 

The outer part of the Cathedral serves as biblical lessons, complete with a fortune. Master Erwin and his successors made the 13th-century west front façade, as you will see, shows scenes of Christ’s Passion. By the south side are well-known figurative sculptures of the church and the synagogue made by a German artist circa 1230. Two distinct features added in the 15th century include the delicate octagon of the north tower and the openwork spire. 

The Strasbourg cathedral, also known as the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg, has Byzantine-style stained-glass windows in the choir. It also has some great pieces of work like the Coronation of the Virgin “tapestry”; it is well esteemed among the highest achievements of religious art. 

Strasbourg Astronomical Clock

Located at the Notre-Dame Cathedral of Strasbourg, this clock dates from the 19th century. Its characteristics are a perpetual calendar, a planetary dial, and it also shows the real position of the sun and the moon. It is one of the great tourist attractions in the Alsace region of France.

This masterpiece of timekeeping delights visitors with a parade of the apostles daily at 12:30 pm. After touring the Cathedral’s interior, visitors can go to the top of the tower for a fascinating view of the city, the Rhine plains, the Vosges Mountains and the Black Forest.

>> Must See Cathedrals In France

Maison Kammaerzell

Close to the Place de la Cathédrale is another of the city’s most crucial spots, the Maison Kammaerzell. Now a hotel with a popular restaurant opposite the Tourist Office, this building is the most exquisite old burgher’s house in Strasbourg. With its stone-built ground floor, half-timbered upper floors, traditional leaded windows, and rich carved ornamentation, it is regarded as a jewel of Alsatian architecture. 

During the 15th-century, Maison Kammaaerzell’s ground floor with its carved stone arches served as a space where merchants sold their wares.

Another charming half-timbered house situated in the area is the Pharmacie du Cerf. This building was built in 1567 on a site that is a pharmacy since 1268. Close to the Rue des Juifs are the ruins of an ancient Roman fort, giving visitors a sense of the city’s cultural heritage that dates back to two millennia. 

Eglise de Saint-Thomas

The church of Saint-Thomas is located on the site of an old church built in the early 6th century, and it is dedicated to the Apostle Saint Thomas. In the 1st-Century, the church was rebuilt after it got razed by fire. Locals love to call it the “ petite fille de la Cathedrale”  (daughter of the Cathedral). With five naves of equal height, the building typifies the Alsatian Gothic style of architecture. The choir hosts a stunning Baroque mausoleum of the Marechal de Saxe, who was renowned for his illustrious military career.

In the course of its 800-year-history, the church of Saint-Thomas has been famous for the role it played during the Protestant Reformation of Alsace. This particular church was central to the activities of the region’s Lutheran movement. Eglise de Saint-Thomas has a clock, which for 400 years has struck the hours four minutes too soon-to make itself heard before the Cathedral clock strikes. 

When you visit this magnificent tourist destination, you will find pieces of evidence that the church is still deployed as a protestant house of worship. It also offers religious services every Sunday morning and at noon, daily. 

The Covered Bridges

Or the Ponts-Couverts are one of the most famous tourist attractions in all of Strasbourg. It consists of towers and footbridges situated at the end of ‘Petite France’. Today, only the towers remain from the original 13th century structure. These ancient fortified remains owe their name to the series of roofed, wooden footbridges which existed when they were built.

The Vauban Barrage

Near the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in the west part of the “Petite France” district in Strasbourg, this structure dates from the 17th century and was built over the river by the military engineer Vauban.

>> Is Strasbourg Expensive?

Palais Rohan (Musée des Beaux-Arts and Musée des Arts Décoratifs)

The graceful 18th-century Palais des Rohan used to be the residences of the Bishop-Princes from 1732 to 1742, before the French Revolution. The rest of the massive building houses three exceptional museums. Situated on the first floor of the Rohan Palace, the Musée des Beaux-Arts (Museum of Fine Arts) has an impeccable collection of paintings by Italian, Spanish, Flemish, Dutch, and French masters from the Middle Ages to modern times.

Delight yourself with the works of Botticelli, Courbet, Delacroix, Giotto, Goya, El Greco, Rubens, and Veronese and others. The Musée des Arts Décoratifs (Museum of Decorative Arts) can be found on the ground floor of the Rohan Palace, the former apartments of the Cardinals of Rohan.

Visitors can view the terrific rooms of the bishop’s apartment, like the library, print room, and chapel, and the collection of decorative arts. The collection includes ceramics, porcelain, paintings, timepieces, and goldsmith’s art. Located in the Rohan Palace basement, the archaeological museum has one of the best collections of antiquities in France.

The Historical Museum

Itching to have a feel of Strasbourg’s historical corpus? Then step into the Historical Museum. Located in the Grande Boucherie, the museum has a wide range of exhibits of paintings, graphic art, weapons, and everyday objects. The collections are from the centuries in the Middle Ages to the French Revolution with a few rooms dedicated to the Napoleonic and modern eras. 

Visitors will learn about Strasbourg’s politics, society, and economy throughout the ages. The museum dedicates works to high political figures like the famous General Jean-Baptiste Kleber. Also, you will find costumes and furniture of citizens; this offers insight into the everyday life of Strasbourg in times past. 

The Alsatian Museum

The Alsatian Museum displays a collection of traditional furniture, toys, ceramics, and religious artifacts. The items offer knowledge about the Alsatian lifestyle as it used to be centuries ago, including costumes, furnishings, earthenware, toys, religious, and secular images.

23 – 25, quai Saint-Nicolas 67000, Strasbourg, France. Tel:  0003 88 52 50 01 Opening Hours:  Every day except Tuesday.

Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

The museum displays an impressive and fascinating collection of modern artworks, including works of Gustave Dore, Max Ernst, Vassily Kandinsky, and Jean Arp. If you have a keen interest in art and you also like to eat at a nice restaurant during your tour, you should not miss The Museum Library.

1, place Hans Jean Arp, 67076 Strasbourg Cedex, France. Tel:  0003 88 23 31 31 Opening Hours:  Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday: 11 A.M. to 7 A.M. Thursday from 12 noon to 10 P.M. Sunday from 10 A.M. to 6 P.M. Closed on Monday. Admission:  cost up to 5 Euros.

Museum of Decorative Arts

Hosted by the Palais Rohan, the Museum of Decorative Decorative Arts was set out in the 18th century by the famous architect Robert de Cotte; it is divided into two sections. One may visit the sumptuous apartments of the Rohan cardinals as well as enjoy the collection of Strasbourgeois decorative art dating from 1861 to the middle of the 19th century.

Opening Hours:  Every day except Tuesdays, from 10 am to 6 pm Admission:  Entrance: 4 Euros, Reduced: 2 Euros

The Museum of the Notre Dame Work

Oriented to medieval art, the collection is one of the most impressive of its kind in the whole of Europe.

The Zoological Museum

One of the richest museums in France belongs to the Louis Pasteur University. The Zoological Museum features one million insects, 18.000 birds, 1.500 mammals, and more.

Where to Stay in Strasbourg for Sightseeing

Many of the city’s tourist attractions are located in Strasbourg’s historic UNESCO World Heritage Site of Grande-Lle; a large island surrounded by the River III. With the square dominated by the big Cathedral, Strasbourg’s most picturesque section is the Quartier des Tanneurs. More hotels great for sightseeing are the active Quartier Krutenau, another area of canals and half-timbered residences across the river. 

Below are Some of the Best Hotels in Strasbourg:

Retaining the building’s historic character while blending it with luxurious modern satisfaction, Hotel Cor du Corbeau Strasbourg- MGallery Collection is close to all the major destinations. Also blending historic architecture and a decorative feature with modern amenities (like a spa), Hotel Le Bouclier d’Or is in La Petite France and convenient to many restaurants. In La Petite France and within walking distance of several museums, Regent Petite France and Spa is a redesigned medieval mill.

Mid-Range Hotels:

There are many mid-range alternatives in Strasbourg as regards comfort and relaxation. Best Western Hotel De L’Europe retains a 15th-century building at the edge of La Petite France, and it is just a few blocks from the Cathedral. The boutique Hotel Rohan serves contemporary rooms in the narrow pedestrian streets next to the Cathedral, a five-minute walk from the boat tour dock. Hotel Cathedrale is just across the Cathedral in an area full of restaurants and shopping. 

Budget Hotels:

Many of these affordable hotels are close to the Cathedral as well. Suisse Hotel, which is a few steps from the three art and archaeology museums and the river cruise dock, is part of them. Mercure Strasbourg Centre Petite France is close to the bridge to the Grande-Ile. In the middle of the restaurants of the bright Krutenau is the Hotel Aux Trois Roses- a few minutes-walks to the Cathedral.

How to Enjoy Strasbourg  

The UNESCO World Heritage List has Strasbourg on it, especially its entire city center. Given the city’s deep history and traditions, taking a guided tour helps bring Strasbourg to life. Local guides are friendly and can help share the historical context, architectural relevance, and artistic value of the city’s structures. Guides can also give tourists an insider’s view of the Christmas markets. Ensure to check guides’ packages and deals before traveling. Below are some of the things you can do:

• Cycle around the city:  Take a mesmerizing trip down the street of this gorgeous city. A scenic bike ride through the historic center will give you insights, led by a knowledgeable local guide. As you proceed, you will hear interesting facts and stories about the city and see architectural landmarks. 
• Take a Pedicab:  To get a vantage view of popular sights in Strasbourg, a pedicab tour will be a brilliant task. Most tours offer two different scenic routes which allow you to behold the top spots. Like the Cathedral, the Palais des Rohan, the beautiful Petite France quarter, the Ill River and Parc de l’Orangerie in the new parts of town. 
• Enjoy a Walking tour:  The experience of a walking tour to see a brilliant and vibrant city can be matchless. A two-hour walking tour would most likely take you along cobbled streets to visit top spots like the Palais Rohan and the impressive Cathedral of Notre Dame. Navigate the alluring La Petite France area and see the picturesque canals, half-timbered buildings, and covered bridges.

Where To Eat In Strasbourg

L’ancienne douane.

This is the largest restaurant in Strasbourg, with the capacity for more than 800 people. It is located in the oldest part of the town, and its décor is very formal.

6 rue de la Douane – 67000 Tel. 03 88 15 78 78

Le Buerehiesel

This restaurant is in the center of the Parc de l’Orangerie offering a peaceful atmosphere. Some examples from its menu are: Shellfish and cuttlefish tagliatelle salad with preserved lime and fresh coriander, Roast line-fished bass with mashed potatoes with poultry juice, and Roast Alsace pigeon with simmered winter vegetables and lamb’s lettuce.

4, Parc de l’Orangerie Tel. (+33) 3 88 45 56 65

Au Crocodile

The Crocodile can sit up to 40 guests. It has a warm atmosphere and is the ideal place for intimate gatherings. The menu offers Green Asparagus Cream Soup with poached Egg and Parmesan Cheese, Dublin Bay Prawns on a Skewer, Eggplant, and Tomato Crouton, Orange Vinaigrette and much more.

10 rue de l’Outre Tel. (33) 03 88 32 13 02

Relais de la Poste

The house where the Relais de la Poste restaurant is now located, used to be a Post Office during the 18th century. It is now a very elegant restaurant where some of the specialties are: Grilled bass with herbs from the Provence, Beef fillet, warm goose liver pate, potatoes au gratin with Fresh goose liver, Muscat jelly, and farmhouse bread.

21, rue du Général De Gaulle. 67610 La Wantzenau Tel. 03 88 59 24 80

>> Food Lover’s Guide to Strasbourg

La Maison des Tanneurs

This restaurant was built in 1572 and was formerly a tannery. It became a restaurant in 1949 and was restored in 1972 for its 400th anniversary. Some dishes on the menu include Duck Terrine with hazelnuts, Snails with Garlic butter, Veal kidneys in Alsatian white sauce, Pike/Perch fillet with white wine sauce, and more.

42, rue du Bain aux Plantes Tel. : 03 88 32 79 70

Strasbourg Nightlife Guide

La Place des Halles is famous because it’s a shopping zone and also has grocery stores. You can take a walk to see if there is something you like, as this place is easily accessible from any part of the city.

The place de la Cathédrale is also a good place to have a good night in Strasbourg. There are many performers, dancers and artists in La Petite France, in the places des Tripiers, in the place Benjamin Zix and in the place du Marché aux Cochons de Lait.

The Festival of Classical Music and the Festival of Jazz feature international artists and despite the prices, alot of people attend these festivals. The Festival International des Musiques d’Aujourd’hui is also a very famous festival in Strasbourg. It takes place between September and October, and offers modern music concerts and opera performances.

Some Bars and Clubs In Strasbourg

L’exils.

This is a Pub/Nightbar. It has cool background music, 6 different draught beers, 40 different bottled beers, as well as darts, pool, pinball and a lot of fun.

28, rue de l’Ail Tel.03.88.32.52.70

La Salamandre

You can listen to all kinds of music here, from salsa, ’80s, house, pop, rock’n’roll, etc, but also accordion music every Sunday afternoon.

3, Rue Paul Janet Tel: 03 88 25 79 42

All types of contemporary music – from Disco to Techno -Go-go dancers every Friday and Saturday.

376, route de la Wantzenau Tel : 00 (0) 3 88 311 831

How To Get To Strasbourg

Strasbourg by plane.

The main Airport is located in the southwest part of the city and receives domestic and international flights daily. One of the main destinations is Paris and others, such as Rome, Vienna, London and Moscow. The main operator is Air France. You can get to the city from the airport by taking a bus or a tram which run every 30 minutes.

Tel. 03-88-64-67-67 www.strasbourg.aeroport.fr

Strasbourg By train

The train service is very efficient in Strasbourg. The train station is la Gare de Strasbourg (Strasbourg train station). Paris is one of the main destinations with at least nine trains a day from Paris’s Gare de l’Est.The trip time is more than four hours long. It also receives international train services, such as the Deutsche Bahn (German Railways).

Tel. 08-92-35-35-35.

Strasbourg By Car

Strasbourg is easily reached from the west (Paris, Benelux) taking the A4 highway (E25), from the south (Switzerland, Lyon), taking the A35 highway (E25), from the north and east (Germany), taking the A5 highway (E35). The A35 highway links Strasbourg with Colmar and Mulhouse.

Strasbourg Travel Blog – Conclusion

Strasbourg is France’s second most popular tourist city after Paris as it welcomes anyone from anywhere in the world. And thanks to its strategic location at the intersection of business routes and essential traffic on the Rhine River. Little wonder the city has flourished throughout its 2,000-year history. From arts to luxury to good food, Strasbourg will create memories as you further your traveling quests.

The city is surrounded by some amazing churches and cathedrals. The architecture in Strasbourg is very rich, with some examples being the Cathedral of Our Lady, Eglise Saint-Etienne, Eglise Saint-Thomas, Eglise Saint-Pierre-le-Jeune (Protestant), Eglise Saint-Guillaume and Eglise Saint-Jean. The astronomical clock and the old towers are also very popular attractions in this city.

Strasbourg was once a German territory but was returned to France. Despite this, Strasbourg still has a German influence and nowadays it is a very modern and fascinating city.

“La Petite France” is a picturesque quarter where fishermen, millers, and tanners lived in former times. The beautiful half-timbered houses mostly date from the 16th or 17th century. It’s the quarter where different canals go out from Ill, the river which goes through Strasbourg and flows around the Isle of the old city.

Did You Enjoy This Strasbourg Travel Blog? Is There anything You Would Add To This Strasbourg Travel Guide? Leave Your Comments Below.

Peter is the editor of France Travel Blog. He has traveled to France many times and is ready to share the knowledge in this travel guide for France.

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Top Things to do in Gibraltar, United Kingdom

Cruisers from all over the world flock to Gibraltar, United Kingdom to bask in its breathtaking views and rich history and culture. With several exciting options for excursions through Norwegian Cruise Line, you'll be able to experience the magic of Gibraltar easily, whether you want to explore the city's architecture or take in all the wildlife that surrounds the area. Here are a few of the top things to do in Gibraltar, United Kingdom that you can enjoy when you cruise with Norwegian.

Ready to start planning? Explore all Gibraltar cruises .

Walking Tour of Upper Rock

You'll enjoy sensational views of the entirety of Gibraltar when you take the Walking Tour of Upper Rock excursion. Beginning with a cable car ride to the top of the rock, you can take in all the sights of the city from above while floating through the air. At the peak, you can enjoy panoramic views of Catalan Bay and wander into St. Michael's cave to walk the path of Neolithic humans who lived there. Afterward, you'll visit the Barbary Apes, Princess Caroline's Battery, and a maze of tunnels called the Upper Galleries that were excavated between 1779 and 1793.

Panoramic Gibraltar and Tapas

For another opportunity to see exciting views, as well as the chance to enjoy some delicious local cuisine, there's the Panoramic Gibraltar and Tapas excursion. This two-hour tour starts with a drive along Gibraltar's airport runway, ending at Catalan Bay, where you can see the majesty of Gibraltar and even catch a glimpse of neighboring regions, like North Africa and Spain. You'll also get a tour of the town, including destinations like the American War Memorial, Trafalgar Cemetery, and Europa Point. Finally, you'll enjoy traditional tapas on the pier, including wine and Mediterranean specialties, before you return to the ship.

RELATED CRUISES: 10-Day Europe From Rome to Lisbon: Italy, France, Spain & Gibraltar 11-Day Europe Round-trip Lisbon: Spain, Morocco & Gibraltar 10-Day Europe Round-trip from Paris to Barcelona: France, Spain & England

Cruising the Bay of Gibraltar - Dolphin Watch

Wildlife enthusiasts will be especially excited about the Cruising the Bay of Gibraltar - Dolphin Watch excursion. You'll start your day by boarding a boat that will take you around the Bay of Gibraltar, allowing you to view all the sights of the city from out at sea. Since Gibraltar is known for its cetacean population, you'll likely catch a glimpse of dolphins on your tour. You might even see some other wildlife, such as flying fish, whales, and sunfish. When your tour concludes, you can return to the ship or stay on shore to explore even more of Gibraltar.

Gibraltar With Less Walking and English Tea

If you're not a fan of long walking tours but still want to see everything Gibraltar has to offer, Norwegian has you covered with the Gibraltar With Less Walking and English Tea excursion. This excursion involves riding on a minibus around all the most exciting sights in Gibraltar, including the airport runway, the Spanish Frontier, and Devil's Tower Road. You'll also pass by Catalan Bay, the American War Memorial, Trinity Lighthouse, and Trafalgar Cemetery. After your bus tour, you'll enjoy traditional English tea at Rock Hotel, which includes a pot of hot tea as well as sandwiches and British pastries.

Traditional Andaluz Cork and Cattle Farm

For cruisers who want to explore some of the less well-known destinations in Gibraltar, there's the Traditional Andaluz Cork and Cattle Farm excursion. This activity begins with a scenic drive around the Bay of Gibraltar, bringing you to a photo opportunity at El Mirador right before you reach the Natural Cork Forest Park. Once you're inside the forest, you'll travel to an Andaluz farmhouse from 1797, showcasing a historical representation of life in Gibraltar. You'll get to learn everything you could imagine about farming and processing cork here, including the farm's exclusive technique for making the ideal cork for bottles.

This excursion also includes chances to get up close to the Retinto cattle on the farm. These cattle are famous in the region and known as one of the purest breeds in Spain. Finally, you'll get to enjoy a meal of tapas and local wine. There's even a shop where you can purchase cork and leather products, olive oils, souvenirs handmade by local artisans, and exceptionally delicious wines.

A City Under Siege

If you're interested in the history of wars, you'll enjoy the excursion A City Under Siege . When taking this tour, you'll ride a cable car to the Top Station at the peak of Gibraltar's rock, offering uniquely beautiful views of the scenery. Then, an expert guide will teach you about the historical Top Station, including its use during World War II. After touring the station, you'll journey to the Middle Station to meet the Rock Apes who roam free on the grounds. You'll also visit other historical sites, such as Princess Caroline's Battery, the Moorish Castle, and the Gibraltar Museum.

Rock Tour - By Taxi

Another option for cruisers who want to see the sights of Gibraltar without walking all day is the Rock Tour - By Taxi excursion. This tour involves driving around the most exciting and significant parts of Gibraltar, including the Waterport Gates district, the Cross of Sacrifice war memorial, and the airport runway that creates a border between Gibraltar and Spain. You'll also stop at a few destinations along the way, including the Trinity House Lighthouse, Europa Point, and St. Michael's Cave, allowing you to get up close and personal with the city's rich history and beautiful architecture.

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Home » News » RWRDS Daily Update – June 4, 2024: 100,000 points bonus on the BMO Rewards World Elite Business Mastercard & TD’s new card offers for the summer

RWRDS Daily Update – June 4, 2024: 100,000 points bonus on the BMO Rewards World Elite Business Mastercard & TD’s new card offers for the summer

Here’s your RWRDS Canada update! Your near daily dose of loyalty program, credit card and travel news, bonuses, deals and more.

New increased welcome bonus on the BMO Rewards World Elite Business Mastercard

BMO has revealed a new increased welcome bonus offer of up to 100,000 BMO Rewards points for their BMO Rewards® World Elite®* Business Mastercard®*

The bonus is awarded as 20,000 points on your first purchase and an additional 10,000 points per month when you spend $3,000 per month in months 3 to 12 of having the card. Plus, there is a waiver of the $149 annual fee for the first year.

Click here to learn more and/or to apply for the card.

And one more BMO item – you’ll notice that the marketing terminology for the BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard has been changed. We let BMO know a few months ago that their marketing of the card as “Now get the highest rewards points for travel of any premium flexible travel card in Canada” would no longer be valid as the revamped ATB World Elite Mastercard can officially claim that title as of today (June 4). BMO will now market the Ascend World Elite Mastercard with “Unforgettable travel experiences start with our premium flexible travel credit card!”

New summer offers for the TD Aeroplan and First Class Travel Visa cards

The summer offers for several TD cards are now out. Hopefully you heeded our posts to get in on the last set of offers as these new offers are lower in terms of points and the Aeroplan cards now require more spend to achieve.

TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card:

Earn up to $1,000 in value†, including up to 40,000 Aeroplan points†, and additional travel benefits. Account must be approved by September 3, 2024.

• Earn a welcome bonus of 10,000 Aeroplan points when you make your first purchase with your new card†
• Earn 15,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $7,500 within 180 days of Account opening†
• Plus, earn a one-time anniversary bonus of 15,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $12,000 within 12 months of Account opening†
• Click here to apply for TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card
• This offer is not available for residents of Quebec. For Quebec residents, please click here .

TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Card:

Earn up to $2,700 in value† including up to 75,000 Aeroplan points (enough for a round trip to Honolulu†) and additional travel benefits. Conditions Apply. Account must be approved by September 3, 2024.

• Earn a welcome bonus of 20,000 Aeroplan points when you make your first purchase with your new card†
• Earn an additional 25,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $12,000 within 180 days of Account opening†
• Plus, earn a one-time anniversary bonus of 30,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $24,000 within 12 months of Account opening†
• Click here to apply for TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Card

TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card

Earn up to $700 in value†, including up to 75,000 TD Rewards Points, no Annual Fee for the first year† and additional travel benefits. Conditions Apply. Account must be approved by September 3, 2024

• Earn a welcome Bonus of 20,000 TD Rewards Points when you make your first Purchase with your Card†.
• Earn 55,000 TD Rewards Points when you spend $5,000 within 180 days of Account opening†.
• Earn a Birthday Bonus of 10% of the TD Rewards Points you have earned over the past year, up to a maximum of 10,000 TD Rewards pointss†
• Get an annual TD Travel Credit† of $100 when you book at Expedia® For TD.
• Get an Annual Fee Rebate for the first year†.
• Click here to apply for TD First Class Visa Infinite Card

No Air France KLM Flying Blue Promo Rewards for Canada

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Canadian Bonus Offers

Air Canada Aeroplan – Earn 2,500 Bonus Aeroplan points when you book an Air Canada Vacations tour package to Europe. Book by Jul 7 for travel until Dec 31, 24. More..

Stash Hotel Rewards – Worldwide Earn 500 bonus Stash Rewards Points when you book any hotel via Stash Hotels Rewards (it doesn’t even have to be a Stash participating property) plus earn 500 more points when you book 3+ nights. Book by Jun 30, 24. More…

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