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Refined culture and deep history

A rendezvous with a magnifique experience awaits! As cliché as it sounds, France truly has something for everyone. With over two dozen cities, each with their own nuances of the French culture and contributions to its history, architecture, art and last but not least, the gastronomical delights that the French are famous for throughout the world are yours to explore, experience and fall in love with during your stay. Coast to coast, border to border, there are seemingly endless variations on your French experience to be had. Rolling hills and scenic valleys lined with the fruit of the gods; seaside towns, along sandy beaches with views you just might be sharing with royalty; or maybe snowcapped mountain ranges providing some of the best skiing in the world and an adrenaline rush to match is what you seek. Whatever you decide, France easily makes you feel as if you have stepped out of reality and into the art you learned about and loved since you were a child.

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Destination Must-Sees

This French capital is one of the world's greatest cities and certainly one of its most beautiful. The Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Louvre and Orsay Museums, the Champs Elysees, Montmartre and the Sacre Coeur, and many others are all iconic symbols of the "City of Light." Renowned for fabulous dining, high fashion and the French savoir faire, one can keep returning to Paris over a lifetime and still not see everything it has to offer.

Sitting on the French Riviera, north of Cannes, is a town that is an olfactory oasis. Set in the hills, Grasse is considered the perfume capital of the world. The town’s fields of jasmine, lavender, and other fragrant flowers are harvested to create essential oils for perfume production. Perfumers (known as a nez, or nose) in Grasse can teach you how to recognize different scents and how top notes, mid notes and the lingering base of a fragrance come together to create a magical aroma.

At 370 acres or three-quarters of a square mile, the Principality of Monaco is the world's second smallest sovereign state. It sits in a scenic cliff-side location on the Mediterranean completely surrounded by French territory. This fairy tale of a country is headed by the Prince Sovereign, currently, Albert II, son of Rainier III and American actress Grace Kelly. Discover a place that is just as you imagined with opulent architecture, stunning coastal panoramas, chic boutiques and ritzy cars. Highlights of a visit include the Oceanographic Museum and the Prince's Palace as well as the Cathedral, the final resting place of the Principality's monarchs.

A perfectly preserved medieval enclave of Roman origins, Avignon is set in the heart of France's Provence region on the banks of the Rhone River. For 68 years in the 14th century, Avignon was the capital of Christianity, the seat of 10 Popes before the papacy was brought back to Rome in 1377. Avignon has always been a center for art and culture, a designation that continues with its annual Arts Festival, hosting numerous stage productions, film showings, exhibitions, poetry readings, concerts, mime performances, ballets, and more.

Destination Must-Dos

Small-town touring:

Take a break from the City of Light and get a taste of old world France when spending time in countryside villages that look like they are plucked from a storybook. With many unique villages, each region has its own special qualities for you to experience. Travel through hilltops, rocky coasts and remarkable views while learning about the locals and their lifestyles.

Omaha Beach:

This was one of the beach sectors assigned to the American landing forces during the invasion of June 6, 1944. It was here that the U.S. First Division fought the bloodiest engagement on D-Day. Go through the towns that make up the sector: St-Laurent, Colleville and Vierville. Set foot on the beach and reflect on that fateful day and cherish the present peace. The American Military Cemetery stands up on the bluff as a testament to the greatest sacrifice that these Americans have made in the name of freedom.

Dinner at Eiffel Tower:

Put yourself in a scene from a movie; the lights of Paris glitter beneath you as you dine inside one of the world’s most iconic landmarks – the Eiffel Tower. Built in 1889 as part of the World's Fair by the architecture team of Gustave Eiffel, the Eiffel Tower is the symbol of Paris today. Located on the first level is 58 Tour Eiffel, a gourmet restaurant with stunning panoramic views of Paris. Since food is another big part of Parisian culture, the meal is several courses, beautifully displayed and accompanied with wine, coffee and tea.

Cabaret Theatre performance:

Immerse yourself in the nostalgic side of Parisian culture when taking your seat at a traditional cabaret show. Colorful, crazy, glamourous and intriguing are all used when describing the excitement that is Parisian cabarets. Enjoy your meal while being entertained with a show or play in this festive atmosphere.

Expert Advice

In many places in France, wine costs less than water. Stay hydrated of course but this is also an affordable chance to try many different varieties of the best wine in the world.

Dinner at the Paradis Latin requires business casual attire; shorts are not allowed. This is your chance to get into the spirit of this exciting night.

The French eat lunch between noon and 2:30p.m. and dinner between 8-11p.m. Many restaurants close after lunch and do not open again until dinner time.

Featured Tours to France

Essence of France Paris, Provence & the French Riviera

France Magnifique

Spotlight on Paris

Spotlight on the French Riviera

Spotlight on the French Riviera featuring Nice's Carnival and Menton Lemon Festival

Memorials of World War II featuring the 80th Anniversary of the D-Day Landing

London & Paris

London & Paris Holiday

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The best France tour packages

What people love about france tours, most popular destinations in france, travel france your way, top operators in france, best places to start your france tour, discover france tours for every budget.

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Paris and Versailles

“The guided tours were well organized & informative. It was helpful our hotel was near the Metro Station.” Linda Kushneriuk, traveled in September 2023

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year
• Enjoy a panoramic bus tour of Paris
• Cruise the Seine with views of landmarks
• Skip the line at the Eiffel Tower

Best of France Tour

“Beautiful countryside! Itinerary and coach were great. We felt immersed in the French culture and the whole trip was incredible.” Rodney Liu, traveled in June 2022

• Visit Château de Chenonceau and Chambord
• Cruise along the Seine and visit the Eiffel Tower
• Explore Paris with a panoramic bus tour

French Dream (12 destinations)

“Very good value. Fast paced but we saw all we wanted.” Wendy Pavilonis, traveled in April 2024

• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing
• Enjoy a boat ride in the underground Padirac Chasm
• Experience wine tasting at Bordeaux's Cité du Vin
• Visit Leonardo da Vinci's last home at Clos Lucé

Paris, Normandy and the Loire

“Bus tours are the way to go! My husband and I both agreed based on our age and any further European travel.” Karen, traveled in September 2023

• See the Bayeux Tapestry and Normandy beaches
• Explore Paris with your CosmosGO app
• Tour castles of the Loire Valley

Dreaming of France of Alsace

“The hotels were all very comfortable and nice!” Wendy Lin, traveled in June 2024

• Explore the old town of Tours
• Tour the wine capital of Burgundy, Beaune
• See Carrières de Lumières in Les Baux

It was a really good experience. This is my second trip with Eskapas. The first one was a small group tour fully escorted in Italy and it was wonderful. This trip is independent and you are joining at the meeting point to daily group ours. If you have send of orientation, it may be difficult so I recommend yo to take a taxi to reach out to the meeting points. Usually it costs 15-20Euro. The company upgraded our hotel to New Hotel Le Voltaire 4* ,, located in 11th Arrondissement, close to Bastille. It is a correct one, decent breakfast. Don't miss Cimetiere du Pere-Lachaise which is close proximity.

Brilliant tour guide Leila and amazing driver Brein, together with extraordinary sights and very good accommodation, made for an excellent experience on the 3 day bus tour. I also appreciated the priority entry for all the visits included.

My husband and I had a wonderful experience, the driver was very experience with narrow streets, the guide went above and beyond to make sure we are comfortable, safe and enjoying our trip.

Northern France

Climb the Eiffel Tower for sweeping views of romantic Paris, tour a marvelous château, admire Romanesque and Gothic architecture in Rouen, and explore the poignant beaches of Normandy. A trip through the north of France promises a memorable experience.

Southern France

Stroll through the lavender fields of Provence, savor some of the world's finest wines in Bordeaux, and explore the medieval city of Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Don't forget to hit the glamorous beaches of Cannes, Nice, and Saint-Tropez!

From blooming strolling through lavender fields to exploring ancient architectural masterpieces like the Roman Amphitheatre in Arles to relaxing in cozy towns and sampling fine wines, Provence offers something for everyone.

Taste the finest wines in Burgundy, experience the charming lavender fields of Provence, and wander through ancient Roman ruins in Arles. A Rhone River cruise provides a unique glimpse into France's diverse heritage and beauty.

More exciting destinations:

Find the perfect tour for your family, catering to all ages with over 637 family tours available in France.

Fully Guided

Select from our extensive range of 630 fully guided tours to enjoy a worry-free experience through France with our expert guides leading the way.

River Cruise

See France from a unique perspective with one of our top-rated river cruise tours, brought to you by internationally acclaimed cruise companies. Experience iconic cities like Paris, the castle-dotted natural Loire Valley, and heavenly food and wine.

An Explorer tour in France promises thrilling adventures and diverse landscapes. France's vast and varied terrain offers great opportunities for hiking, biking, and discovering off-the-beaten-path destinations, ensuring an exhilarating and unforgettable journey.

More travel styles:

"Accommodations are good.

Europamundo is an expert in:

"Tour was very good. Initial Hotel accommodations could have been closer to the initial points for the meeting points. Taxi rides were pretty expensive.

Eskapas is an expert in:

"Good. Which more tough

Intrepid Travel is an expert in:

Choose the city in France you want your tour to start in:

Browse the best budget and luxury tours in France that will take you through unmissable places like Paris and Avignon.

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Explore France on a pre-planned itinerary and meet like-minded travelers

• Itineraries between 3 days and 31 days
• Starting from €63 per day

Small Group

Visit France with fewer travelers, ensuring more immersive activities

• Itineraries between 3 days and 16 days
• Starting from €72 per day

Personalized

Customize your France itinerary to match your interests and pace

• Starting from €96 per day

Visit France with your own group or solo

• Starting from €67 per day

Discover unforgettable adventures designed for all ages! Whether you're young or young at heart, these tours offer excitement and wonder for everyone.

• September 2024 125 tours
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• November 2024 117 tours
• December 2024 popular 77 tours
• January 2025 66 tours
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• July 2025 265 tours
• August 2025 271 tours

Expert in France at TourRadar

Joachim is one of our seasoned France Travel Experts. Reach out to us to get all your questions about France tours answered!

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France Tours & Vacations

There’s a reason France is the most visited country in the world. Actually, there are several.

The Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. The Pyrenees and Chamonix. Escargot and ratatouille. Champagne and croissants and berets and baguettes. Napoleon and Simone de Beauvoir and the Hunchback of Notre Dame. Jazz bars and vineyards and lavender fields as far as the eye can see. ‘Un petit peu’ of this, ‘un petit peu’ of that. A balmy evening on the French Riviera, a morning frost on the fields of the Somme. French flags flying after the FIFA World Cup. Guillotines falling after the French Revolution. Chanel and Chandon and Versailles and Vuitton. Forget the museums; this country is a work of art.

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France at a glance

Capital city.

Paris (population approximately 2.1 million)

Approximately 67 million

(GMT+01:00) Brussels, Copenhagen, Madrid, Paris

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type E (French 2-pin, female earth)

Learn more about France

Culture and customs.

What makes the French so, well, French? Is it the food? The wine? How about the art, the philosophy, the history, or the fierce passion often caricatured as arrogance? Whatever it is, it’s seduced Francophiles around the world for countless years and there’s no sign of it slowing down.

The French are lovers of life. They celebrate the ‘joie de vivre’, or joy of living, in every aspect of their day. Conversation should be meaningful; food should be rich and sumptuous; music should move you; art should change you.

Sure, there are the stereotypes of the French being rude, but you could be forgiven for your reluctance to speak English when you’re the most-visited country in the world. There are, after all, only so many times one can give directions to the Eiffel Tower. But sit down for dinner at a French person’s house and you’ll discover the opposite. France is a very liberal country and every topic is up for debate – dinner is just an entrée for the conversation.

Much of France’s reputation rests on romanticized images of Paris. Sitting at a cafe on the Ile-St-Louis with a piping-hot croissant and cafe au lait, for example, or watching sunset from the steps of Sacre Coeur. But travel through France and you’ll find an incredibly diverse and multicultural country that changes so much between regions, from Marseille’s cultural melting pot to Biarritz’s surfers to the hardy mountain folk of the Pyrenees and Alps. 

Every region and valley, every coastline and ridgeline and three-hour line for the Louvre, will offer up something different. But remember, there’s one thing that doesn’t change no matter where you go: the unwavering belief that there’s nothing better than being French.

History and government

After the conquest of the Gauls and the fall of Rome, the area we know as France was dominated by a tribe known as the Franks. They were headed up by a brutal man named Charlemagne, whose mission was to convert all of   Europe  to Christianity. After Charlemagne’s death his empire was split into three, with West Francia corresponding to the modern territory of France.

The Hundred Years’ War

West Francia, which was really a patchwork of territories run by the dukes, had institutional power more or less centralized in the 12th century. As time went on the tension between France and England grew until the outbreak of the Hundred Years’ War, which actually lasted 116 years. Though France’s population was decimated during this period, thanks to both war and plague, it was also a formative time for the country’s national identity.

One of the key figures to come out of this long period of fighting was Joan of Arc, who is still a national hero in France. She was born in 1412, just after the Battle of Agincourt, during which the French were dominated by the English. As a young girl she heard the voices and saw visions of multiple saints, all of whom told her to go fight for Charles, the rightful king of France. At the age of 16 she traveled to his court to convince him of her mission and somehow did exactly that. She turned the tide of the war and in doing so was captured by the English and sentenced to death as a witch. Her ashes were scattered in the River Seine, but her story was never forgotten.

The French Revolution

Bad harvests, taxation, abject poverty and an unrestrained aristocracy sowed the seeds of the French Revolution in the 18th century. The Renaissance began in   Italy   and spread across Europe, ushering in the Age of Enlightenment, which spread the ideas of individual liberty, tolerance and the separation of church and state. In France, King Louis XVI had inherited a country in dire trouble but was still living it up at the Palace of Versailles. The peasants revolted and stormed the Bastille Prison – hence the national celebration of Bastille Day – and King Louis, along with Marie Antoinette, his queen, were captured and executed by guillotine. A decade of chaos ensued.

It was Napoleon, a military general, that took control of France following the revolution and established the Napoleonic Code, which has become the foundation for the development of most modern democracies. He embarked on military campaigns throughout Europe and was eventually defeated and exiled by the combined forces of   Russia   and Prussia, a northern state that would rise to power as a united Germany during the 19th and 20th centuries.

The World Wars

The 20th century was a horrific time for France with   Germany   invading the country twice. France suffered huge casualties during both WWI and WW2, and by 1945 it was on its knees. Further conflicts followed in colonial territories across Africa and Asia, which led to an influx of migration to France. In Europe, governments were dealing with the fallout from WWII and making agreements to avoid another conflict, from which the European Union was born.

France is now a leading power both in Europe and globally after a huge post-war effort to rebuild the country. It has the third-largest economy in the EU and is one of the most modern countries in the world, continuing to value liberty, fraternity and equality. Recent years have seen issues arise with the Islamic extremism and the European refugee crisis, but the country continues to grow and remains a thriving destination for tourism.

Eating and drinking

The gastronomic pleasures of France are world-renowned, so travellers won’t be worried about going hungry. There’s something to suit every budget here, from Michelin-star restaurants to market stalls and everything in between, and it’s not just frog legs and snails that are on the menu.

There’s simply no better buy than a fresh, crusty baguette. Buy one for less than a euro from the nearest bakery and take it down to the nearest park or river. Apply butter liberally, fill with whatever you like and bite into France – c’est magnifique!

Pastries, cakes and tarts

French chefs set the global quality benchmark for pastries so there’s no feeling guilty when you sample the croissants, eclairs, crepes, macaroons and whatever else you can get your hands on. Find them at your local patisserie and don’t forget to say merci (or mercy, depending on how many you eat).

If you’re going to indulge in a little wine, there’s no better place than France. It is, after all, home to some of the most famous wine regions in the world: Bordeaux, Burgundy, the Loire, Provence, Champagne. Whether you’re at the cellar door or on the restaurant floor (please, drink responsibly), there’s tasty tipple with your name on it.

When in France, right? From soft cheeses like brie and camembert to a hard, sharp Beaufort, it’s all on offer in France’s bountiful cheese shops and markets.

Beef Bourguignon

This beefy stew originates in Burgundy and is an example of a peasant dish now considered high-end cuisine. It’s prepared with beef braised in red wine and broth, flavoured with garlic, onions and mushrooms, and it’s absolutely perfect on a winter’s evening.

Geography and environment

Bordered by Spain,   Andorra , Luxembourg, Monaco, Switzerland, Italy, Germany and Belgium, France’s geography is as varied as its neighbors.  

In the south, the Pyrenees form a natural border with a   Spain . This mountain range rises over 11,100 feet (3400 meters) and stretches from the west coast to the east. It’s a hiker’s paradise in summer, with thousands of miles of hiking trails, and a haven for snow sports in the winter thanks to a huge number of ski resorts.

To the south-east, France borders the Mediterranean Sea all the way up to the Italian border. A large stretch of this area is what’s known as the French Riviera, which has long been a popular tourist destination thanks to its warm weather, calm water and golden beaches.

Continue north along the Italian border and you’ll reach the French Alps, France’s other predominant mountain range. The Alps are home to Mont Blanc – France’s highest point – and form another natural border, this time with both Italy and Switzerland.

France’s central region is mostly rolling hills and fields, perfect for farming and producing wine. There are two main rivers, the Loire and the Rhone, with the Rhone running south from   Switzerland   through to the Mediterranean and the Loire running north and west to the Atlantic.

The west coast is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and sees a cooler climate than the east. The large Atlantic swells have brought surfers to the area for years with several international surfing competitions being held throughout the year.

Northern France, which is bordered by   Belgium , Luxembourg and Germany, remains relatively flat with grasslands, fields, forests and, of course, the capital of Paris. These northern areas suffered most during the wars, both because of their proximity to Germany and the landscape itself. This is where trench warfare was first employed, only possible because of the huge swathes of flat land.

Chanel. Louis Vuitton. Dior. Lacroix. Hermes. You want luxury? You got it. Paris has long been considered the fashion capital of the world and if that’s your bag, well, you’ll need some room in your bag after a stroll down the famous Champs-Elysees. France isn’t all high fashion though. Yes, the French are notoriously fashionable, but there’s plenty of shopping to be done for those that aren’t quite ready to step out on the catwalk.

Remember, it's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. The United States and Canada generally have strict customs laws.

And you thought Paris was just about fashion? It also happens to be the fragrance capital of the world. There’s no better place to pick up a sensational scent than in one of the city’s many perfumeries, some of which have been trading for more than a century. It’s the perfect gift – or a subtle suggestion – for your friends and family back home.

Flea Markets

Parisian flea markets are a top spot to pick up a vintage bargain. From jewelry and purses to paintings and old-school electronics, you’re bound to find something unique or, at the very least, enjoy trying. Make Porte de Vanves and Porte de Saint-Ouen in Paris your first stops.

Village Markets

Regional French markets just ooze with charm and can be found all over the country. Peruse fresh produce, home-made jams, pickled vegetables, rich cheeses and summer flowers, or just soak up the provincial atmosphere and try your hand at having a chat with one of the locals.

France has been at the forefront of winemaking forever and there are plenty of high quality wines to be found at very decent prices. Just remember that French wines are named for their geographic origin rather than the grape. Take a Burgundy, for example: if it’s red it’s pinot noir, if it’s white it’s chardonnay. Do some research and reap the rewards.

Festivals and events

There are festivals happening all over France throughout the year. Whether you’re in the city or a small town, you can expect a lot of food, some phenomenal wine and plenty of music.

Bastille Day

The French National Day is celebrated on July 14 and commemorates the storming of the Bastille Prison during the French Revolution. It’s celebrated all over the country, but Paris is the place to be, with the city hosting parades, fireworks and the famous Firemen’s Balls, where the main station in each Parisian district throws open its doors for a huge ball lasting until 4 am. It’s a tradition that’s been happening for over 100 years.

Avignon Festival

Performers and art lovers from around the world descend on Avignon for this three-week celebration of performance art. Dance, theatre, comedy and musical performances feature on the bill, with everything from open-air classical concerts and sweeping operatic epics to spoken word poetry.

Tour de France

This is the world’s most iconic cycling competition. It lasts three weeks and was first held in 1903. Things are a little more high-tech now—back then, the cyclists didn’t have support vehicles, and they carried baguettes, wine and cheese for sustenance. They also had some phenomenal mustaches.

Nice Jazz Fest

The Nice Jazz Festival dates back to 1948 and is one of the oldest jazz festivals in   Europe . The first headliner was Louis Armstrong, and since then, a glut of phenomenal musicians have performed, including Herbie Hancock, Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald and Erykah Badu.

Roland Garros

Also known as the French Open, Roland Garros is one of tennis’s grand slams and the premier clay-court competition in the world. The biggest tennis stars in the world converge on the courts to slug it out, but Rafael Nadal will forever be the king.

Public holidays that may impact travel include:

Victory Day 1945

Ascension Day

Whit Monday

Assumption Day

All Saint's Day

Armistice Day

Please note that the dates of  France's public holidays  may vary.

Similar destinations

Thinking about a trip to France but still browsing other destinations? Check out tours to neighboring locations:

• Switzerland

Or maybe you need help comparing countries? Check out our blog:

• France or Italy?

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your France adventure, check out these books:

• The Three Musketeers   – Alexandre Dumas
• Chocolat   – Joanne Harris
• The Hunchback of Notre-Dame   ­– Victor Hugo
• Dangerous Liaisons   – Pierre Choderlos de Laclos
• Suite Francaise   – Irene Nemirovsky
• A Year in Provence   – Peter Mayle
• How to be Parisian Wherever You Are: Love, Style and Bad Habits   – Caroline de Maigret, Anne Berest, Sophie Mas, Audrey Diwan
• The House in France: A Memoir   – Gully Wells
• Marie Antoinette: The Journey –   Antonia Fraser
• Les Miserables   – Victor Hugo
• Me Talk Pretty One Day   – David Sedaris

France travel FAQs

When is the best time to visit france.

The best time to visit France depends on where you are planning to travel to.

The best time to visit Paris, in terms of sunshine and weather, is early summer and early autumn as the late summer can get quite hot. That said, the winter months are a dark albeit beautiful time to visit, like many European cities. The same applies for most of inland France.

If you’re heading to the east coast and the Mediterranean Sea, the best months are July and August as the sea breeze tends to keep the coast a little cooler than inland. There will, however, be more tourists than in the early summer or spring and autumn.

The mountains are best for skiing in February and March as the days are longer than in December and January, while the late spring, summer and early autumn are perfect for hiking.

The Atlantic areas of Brittany and Normandy are best experienced from June through August as they can get quite wet and cold outside of summer.

Is it safe to visit France?

Yes, it is still safe to visit France, though parts of the country have been affected by various issues of late.

Over the past 5–10 years France has been targeted by extremist groups. These attacks have received widespread global coverage and while they are shocking and saddening, they are also very infrequent. France is at no more risk of extremist violence than any other Western country, but travelers should exercise caution nevertheless and keep up-to-date with local news sources.

Much has also been made of the Yellow Vests Movement, which has spread around the country. These protests began in 2018 after an increase in fuel taxes and have morphed into a movement demanding economic reform and the resignation of President Emmanuel Macron. Though the protests have turned violent on several occasions, particularly in Paris, they are also easily avoided. The protests occur on Saturdays and the streets are shut down by police – travelers should check local news sources and avoid any trouble areas on Saturdays.

Do I need a visa to travel to France?

France is a member of the Schengen Convention, which means that if you travel to an EU member country or countries, like France, for a total of less than 90 days, a visa is not required. Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the US, the UK and other member countries of the EU and Schengen area are included under this arrangement.

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your country of origin. Check the Essential Trip Information section of your tour itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in France?

Most restaurants in France will include a service fee within the bill; however, tipping extra (while not absolutely necessary) is customary and will be appreciated by wait staff. Usually rounding up the bill or leaving spare change is sufficient. Feel free to tip more if the service has been exemplary or if you’re feeling generous.

What is the internet access like in France?

The internet access is great in France. All cities and major towns should have internet cafes and wi-fi hotspots, while most of the country aside from very remote areas will have phone reception should you wish to use your mobile/cell phone.

Can I use my cell phone while in France?

Travelers can use their phones throughout France, though remote and isolated areas in the Pyrenees or Alps may have limited service.

You’re able to purchase a local SIM on arriving in France, which will generally be cheaper than using international roaming. If you do wish to use international roaming, ensure it’s activated before leaving your home country and ask your provider what charges apply. Data use can be particularly expensive while overseas.

What are the toilets like in France?

Flushable, Western-style toilets are the standard across France.

Can I drink the water in France?

Drinking water from taps is considered safe in France unless otherwise marked. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottle water and fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead.

Are credit cards widely accepted in France?

Major credit cards are widely accepted across France. Some smaller cafes and shops may not accept credit cards, especially in more rural areas, so be sure to carry enough cash to cover small purchases.

What is ATM access like in France?

ATMs are common across France in both cities and towns so there shouldn't be a problem finding one.

What is the weather like in France?

France’s weather varies depending where you are.

Paris tends to be quite cool with temperatures averaging 59–77°F (15–25°C) even in the height of summer. The winter average is 36–45°F (2–7°C), though it’s worth keeping in mind that the city can experience more extreme heat in the summer or snow in the winter.

The French Riviera, including Nice, has a sunnier climate and averages 68–81°F (20–27°C) in the summer and 41–55°F (5–13°C) in winter. This area is quite sheltered compared to the rest of the south-east coast, which will much hotter and dryer in the summer.

The mountainous regions, like Chamonix in the Alps, will vary depending on altitude. Chamonix experiences an average temperature of 48–75°F (9–24°C) in the summertime and 19–37°F (-7–3°C) in the winter. The summer also sees afternoon thunderstorms and more precipitation than other times of year.

The climate on the Atlantic coast tends to be quite cool and wet, with rain and wind all year round, particularly around the English Channel. Bordeaux, which is much further south, enjoys a warmer climate though it’s prone to both the cold Atlantic fronts as well as cold winds from the north-east. Its average temperature in summer is 61–81°F (16–27°C), while winter averages 37–50°F (3–10°C).

Is France safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

France is a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers and has always been celebrated for its liberal attitudes towards sexuality. Paris was the first European capital to vote in an openly gay mayor in 2001 and France was the first country in the world, back in 1791, to decriminalize same-sex sexual acts between consenting adults. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2013 and attitudes towards LGBTQIA+ identifying people are generally positive across the country.

Paris has had a thriving queer scene for years which revolves around Le Marais, a district just north of Notre-Dame, though the city is so open that it can be difficult to pin down its epicenter. Active queer scenes can be found in most major cities across the country including Bordeaux and Lyon.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

Is France accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

France is a relatively accessible destination for travelers with disabilities, particularly for those visiting Paris. All buses and trams in the Paris metro area are equipped for wheelchairs and most, though not all, metro stations have been equipped to make traveling with a disability as hassle-free as possible. The city’s official visitor website has a section dedicated to   visiting Paris with a disability   in both French and English.

Elsewhere, as in much of Europe, travelers may find that the older city buildings and infrastructure in smaller towns may present them with some difficulty, depending on their disability. If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made.

As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What to wear in France

France is a very liberal country and travelers should not feel compelled to dress particularly conservatively unless visiting a religious site. After all, Paris is the fashion capital of the world – go hard or go home. That being said, Intrepid encourages all travelers to respect the locals in the places we visit. If they wouldn’t wear something, we don’t suggest that you do. 

Remember that the weather in the mountains can change extremely quickly, even in summer, so your best bet is dress in layers. If you do plan on visiting the Alps or Pyrenees, be sure to take a raincoat, sturdy walking shoes and a wind breaker or warm jacket.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

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The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip to France support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to France directly support our French partner Fonds de Dotation. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Fonds de Dotation

Fonds de Dotation are on a mission to create inclusive work opportunities and lessen stigmas for people with disabilties in France. Donations help them power their two inclusive restaurants in France and spread awareness about the importance of inclusive work environments and opportunities.

Learn more or make a donation

France tours

Discovering the icons in Paris, soaking up the sun on the French Riviera, visiting the châteaux of the Loire Valley—see every side of this France on one of our escorted tours.

September 2024

Showing 1–17 of 27 tours

London, Paris & Rome

11 days | 14 days with Madrid extension

4.4 out of 5 stars

Barcelona, Southern France & the Italian Riviera

12 days | 14 days with Rome extension

Stay on vacation? Don’t mind if we do.

Save up to $350 on tours, plus save an extra $50 with code EXT50 on tour extensions for 2025 bookings.†

London & Paris

9 days | 11 days with Paris extension

4.5 out of 5 stars

Paris: The City Experience

7 days | 10 days with Normandy & Paris extension

4.7 out of 5 stars

Grand Tour of Europe: London to Rome

16 days | 18 days with Florence extension

4.6 out of 5 stars

Paris & Rome

8 days | 11 days with Athens extension

Jewels of Alpine Europe

13 days | 15 days with Salzburg extension

Grand Tour of France

16 days | 18 days with Paris extension

London, Paris & Rome for Solo Travelers

9 days | 11 days with Rome extension

4.2 out of 5 stars

London, Paris & Amsterdam

11 days | 14 days with Berlin extension

London, Paris & Madrid

11 days | 14 days with Lisbon extension

A Week in France: The Riviera, Provence & Paris

9 days | 12 days with Normandy & Paris extension

France & Spain: Paris, Bordeaux & Madrid

10 days | 13 days with Madrid & Valencia extension

Food & Wine: A Taste of Bordeaux & Burgundy

12 days | 15 days with Champagne & Paris extension

French Riviera & Provence: Nice, Avignon & Aix-en-Provence

11 days | 14 days with French Alps extension

Paris, Normandy, Brittany Coast & the Loire Valley

11 days | 13 days with Paris extension

London, Normandy & Paris

12 days | 14 days with Paris extension

What travelers are saying about our France tours

5 out of 5 stars

1st-time traveler Tangie

We were apprehensive of the tour when our airline accommodations were not what we expected. Wrong airline and we couldn’t sit together and were giving mixed information frôm the... Read more of Tour Guide Whisper of France 🇫🇷

Traveled in Jun 2024 on A Week in France: The Riviera, Provence & Paris

1st-time traveler Patricia

Joanna, the tour director did an amazing job. She wove together the history of France as we traveled from sea, countryside and city. And I fell in love…she had me at”Bonjour”.... Read more of Romance with France

5th-time traveler Katrina

This tour provided a comprehensive "tasting" of France. From Nice, to Avignon to Paris. The added excursion to Normandy was one of the most memoriable excursions of my 5 trips... Read more of A Taste of France

2nd-time traveler Jeanette

The trip to France was fantastic! Our guide, Joanna was professional, knowledgeable fun and very considerate. We had a great group. We did things together and apart, but what I... Read more of Sister Sister🤗

1st-time traveler Roberta

This entire tour from Nice to Avignon to Paris was amazing! Our tour director Joanna was the best as well as the additional tour guides that she enlisted in Avignon & on the Paris... Read more of An Amazing Tour Through South of France & Paris

1st-time traveler Larry

This was my first time to Europe and France. The star of the trip was Joanna. We benefited from having a guide from another country give a history and perspective of France. It... Read more of First Time In Europe

2nd-time traveler Janice

My sister and I had an amazing time in France! To visit places and see historical structures that we have only read about or seen on TV was an unforgettable experience! What... Read more of Two Sisters in France

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The Riviera

Normandy Coast

Travel tips for France trips

While it's a relatively temperate country, France's weather ranges significantly from region to region. Many consider the best times to travel to France to be spring and fall, when temperatures are more moderate. In Paris for example, spring and fall temperatures are in the 50s, 60s, and 70s F, perfect for walking around sites like the Tuileries, Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, and Versailles. The comfortable weather paired with smaller crowds, more relaxed locals, and seasonal festivals and flavors make these in-between seasons particularly lovely times for a trip to France.

In the warmer summer months, parks, picnics, farmers markets, and outdoor festivals are especially lively. In winter, the weather gets colder and wetter (though there's not much snow in major cities like Paris), but there's still lots to do! You'll find festive holiday decorations, great museums, and more.

France is a diverse country, from the historic beaches in Normandy and Brittany on the northern coast, to the foodie-favored wine regions of Champagne and Burgundy, to the lavish châteaux of the Loire Valley. Plus, as you travel east, the influence of Switzerland and Germany can be felt in the food, architecture, and history in Alsace.

When picking which of our France guided tours is right for you, let your interests help drive your destination selection.

• Want to experience art, romance, and culture? Paris should be on your itinerary, so you can take in the icons like Notre-Dame, the Eiffel Tower, Luxembourg Gardens, and more.
• If you’re a foodie who counts food and wine as a top traveling priority, check out our guided tours that visit Burgundy, Lyon, or Bordeaux.
• History buffs, your must-visits include Normandy and Paris.
• For those who love to be outdoors soaking in the scenery, be sure to check out Provence in the south, where medieval towns and artistic cities are sandwiched between the mountains of the Alps and the sea breeze of the Mediterranean.

In France, eating is an art form. Meals are meant to savored—shared among friends, enjoyed with local wines, and made up of fresh, seasonal ingredients. While the cuisine ranges throughout the country, you’ll always find a focus on local, in-season ingredients. Here are a couple of things to know when sitting down for a meal during your trip to France.

• Breakfast, called le petit déjeuner, is generally light, like a croissant or bread with jam and coffee.
• Lunch, or le déjeuner, was traditionally a two-hour, several-course affair where people took time to relax and unwind with friends. In today’s society, something quicker and more casual—like soup, salad, or sandwiches at a cafe—is very commonplace.
• Dinner, or le diner, is served around eight or later and can be made up of several courses. Typically, it starts with the appetizer, or l**’entrée**, followed by the main course, or l e plat principal , followed by a cheese course and dessert. And remember, be sure to ask for your check when you're done—it's considered rude for wait staff to bring it to your table unrequested. Bon appétit!

The French are famous for their style, so deciding what to pack for a trip to France requires some consideration. Our escorted tours to France incorporate a fair amount of walking as local guides take you around their hometowns, so comfortable walking shoes are a must.

For the building blocks of your France vacation wardrobe, pack easy-to-layer pieces that can be mixed and matched in various ways—neutrals or a cohesive color palette helps a lot! Add in a versatile scarf—perfect for staying warm on flights and afternoon walks, as well as adding a pop of color to simple outfits. Beyond that, we’d recommend your camera, a notebook to jot down any fun facts or book recommendations your Tour Director might share, and a sense of adventure. Once you book one of our France guided tours, you can find a packing list for that specific trip in our easy Tour Companion App .

France Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

Our 1,345 most popular france trips. compare tour itineraries from 195 tour companies. 3,234 reviews. 4.6/5 avg rating., popular france tours.

Highlights of France and Barcelona (Barcelona)

Ultimate Southern France (Bordeaux, 2024)

France Bike & River Cruise: Lyon to Nice

• Admire the magnificent vistas of France’s most renowned wine regions by river and by bicycle.
• Enjoy the best of both worlds: an all-inclusive river ship cruise and VBT Bicycling Vacation.
• Ride among the lush, fertile vineyards of Burgundy and Provence, pausing at your leisure for wine tastings and tours.
• Learn the history of the magnificent Pont du Gard Roman aqueduct and UNESCO World Heritage site’s museum, and savor a delicious picnic lunch.
• Walk the cobbled and historic streets of Lyon and Avignon as a local guide brings them alive with history and lore.

Walks & Gardens of the French Riviera

• Stay in the heart of the Côte d’Azur
• Enjoy coastal paths and mountain trails
• Discover beautiful gardens and picturesque mountain villages

France: Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Les Baux & Avignon

• Delve into the imagination of artist Vincent van Gogh on a private guided tour.
• Roll through pastoral landscapes of olive groves, vineyards, farms, and villages, set against the lofty Alpilles.
• Stride across the Pont du Gard, the magnificent, UNESCO-cited Roman aqueduct.
• Join a local guide on a tour of Avignon, the “City of the Popes.”

Dordogne Valleys and Villages Cycling

• Discover dramatic scenery
• Visit historic, prehistoric and UNESCO sites
• Stay in excellent hotels with pools

Noël à Paris: Festive Magic in the City of Love

Cycling on the wine roads of Provence

• The wine-making villages of Gigondas, Vacqueyras and Châteauneuf du Pape
• Cycling along country roads surrounded by vineyards at the foot of the Mont Ventoux
• The perched villages of Venasque and Crillon le Brave
• 1 dinner included
• 1 half day wine tour in Chateauneuf du pape with a wine specialist

All France , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about France

Small Group France Tours

Cycling in France - Canals and Castles of the Midi

• Cycling adventure along France's historic Canal du Midi and the picturesque countryside
• Explore Toulouse, Narbonne, Carcassonne's walled fortress
• Visit vibrant local markets, and try delectable French cuisine along the way

Hike the Tour du Mont Blanc

• The Tour du Mont Blanc is undoubtedly on of Europe’s most iconic and beautiful long-distance treks. Enjoy a week of hiking to the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, lakes, glaciers and mountain pastures.
• Comfortable and clean hotels & lodges are included each night, offering hearty meals and truly magnificent views of the surrounding mountains.
• Take a load off – literally! Your luggage will be transferred between your accommodation each day, meaning you’ll only have to carry a day pack, and your luggage will be waiting at your hotel.
• Filling breakfasts, picnic lunches and hearty dinners are included on each walking day – fuelling up for your explorations couldn’t be easier (or more delicious!).
• With an experienced and highly qualified International Mountain Leader by your side every step of the way, you can rest assured that you’re in safe hands.

Tour du Mont Blanc Hotel Trek

• Stay in a variety of small, friendly hotels and pensions
• Walk in the shadow of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in western Europe
• Enjoy the spectacular scenery of this world-famous route
• Three rest days to explore the alpine towns of Courmayeur, Les Contamines and Chamonix.

London to Bordeaux, the Basque Country and the Beach

• Rail journey through France and Spain, reaching the Mediterranean in 7 days
• Go wine-tasting in Bordeaux and try pintxos in San Sebastian
• Walk on the Camino de Santiago and discover Segovia's Roman Aqueduct

Barcelona to Rome

• Spend your free time in Barcelona visiting Gaudi's modern basilica, La Sagrada Familia – a Gothic masterpiece that embodies the city’s artistic and progressive heart.
• Hike in the majestic Spanish Pyrenees mountains, revelling in the fresh air, panoramic views and an exhilarating sense of freedom.
• Explore the idyllic Provencal landscapes of southern France and gain an understanding as to why this part of the world is so adored by artists.
• The Leaning Tower may be Pisa’s most iconic image, but there’s so much more to discover – The Piazza dei Miracoli and Pisa Baptistry are masterpieces in Medieval-Italian architecture.
• Enjoy plenty of free time in Rome to discover the ancient Colosseum, stroll through Vatican City and gaze up towards the gods inside St Peter's Basilica.

Highlights of Mont Blanc

• Hiking parts of the famous Tour du Mont Blanc
• Alpine hospitality in spectacular mountain scenery
• Comfortable chalet hotel with indoor pool and sauna

Best France Tours by Duration

Tours, Cruises & Private Trips

Best France Tours by Price

Top France Attractions

• Enjoying a glass of wine on a Rhone River cruise while watching the French countryside glide by
• Swimming in the Riviera
• Trekking through the Pyrenees to the Spanish border for incredible mountain views  
• Visiting the beaches of Normandy , stormed by Allied troops in World War II 
• Biking through Bordeaux or Burgundy and stopping to taste the vintages at a centuries old winery
• Exploring the quaint region of Provence

France Tours & Travel

France Attractions & Landmarks Guide

France is one of the most visited countries in the world. And that’s no surprise -- when you have Paris, the Riviera, Provence, Burgundy, the Loire Valley, Normandy, the Pyrenees, the Seine, the Rhone, and some of the world’s best food and wine, you’re going to draw crowds. Whether you tour France by river cruise, culinary tour, or bike tour you’re sure to agree: Viva La France!

A  tour of Paris , of course, is on most everyone’s France tour itinerary, with sights like the Louvre (so huge it could easily take a month to cover beyond the Mona Lisa), Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, the Latin Quarter, the Marais, and the Seine with its Bateaux Mouches boats and dozens of bridges offering a walkway or river ride through the center of it all. 

Popular France River Cruises

Cruise travel continues to be on the rise for all budgets and one of the top trends is river cruising, particularly for baby boomers. Seniors, and even millennials are also stepping aboard in larger numbers but no matter the budget, a big attraction of river cruising is its intimacy.

Ocean liners can tower in size and accommodate thousands of passengers. River cruise ships on the other hand are designed to navigate narrow waterways, locks and low bridges which gives passengers a quite different experience. You can delight in exploring from the decks of a sleek ship joined by only about 100-150 other passengers.

If you are thinking of exploring France by river , it’s helpful to know the regions and cities of France that can be accessed by a river cruise vessel. This will help you decide the best French river cruise for you.

There are four major rivers in France with the Seine , Rhone and Garonne/Dordogne rivers being the most popular for river cruises. The Loire is the longest river and starts high in the southeastern mountains. It flows north, then west into the Atlantic. 

Seine - sourced from the mountains of southeastern France and flows to the northwest. From the capital city of light and love to the World War II beachheads including Omaha Beach, Paris to Normandy is a popular Seine river cruise , with some tour operators including excursions to London. River cruising in Northern France may also take you along the Seine’s eastern tributary, the Marne, where you can savor brie from a master cheesemaker in the heart of the Brie region. 

Rhone - sourced from the Alps of Switzerland , directly east of France. The Rhone “kisses” its northern tributary, the Saone , at the city of Lyon, the second largest urban area of France, a part of which is a registered UNESCO World Heritage site. There are both Northbound and Southbound Rhone river cruises ; a southbound cruise will take you straight south through the Rhone Valley, known for the intensely fragrant lavender fields of Provence, olive groves that produce some of the highest quality olive oil on earth and of course, the vineyards. Most notable is the Burgundy region, one of the classic French wine regions. The river meets the Mediterranean Sea near Marseilles, northwest of the French Riviera. Marseilles is the largest port and second largest city in France. 

The Rhine river , from its source in Switzerland, makes its way north not only through France but also, Germany, Austria , Liechtenstein and the Netherlands . Rhine and Rhone river cruises allow you to see the sites of France, Germany and beyond. Use Stride’s search tools to help you zero in on the trip that speaks to you!

Garonne/Dordogne rivers and Gironde estuary - sourced from the Spanish pyrenees that lie on the border between Spain and France, a Garonne river cruise will take you north into France then west towards Bordeaux, yet another famed wine region and Unesco World Heritage site. Bordeaux is second to Paris for its plethora of preserved historic buildings. Just after Bordeaux, the Garonne flows into the Dordogne river, forming the Gironde estuary before it empties into the Atlantic. France river cruises in this region are newer to the European river cruise offerings and perhaps not yet as popular as cruising the Seine and Rhone. Some focus only on the city of Bordeaux and the surrounding communes of Cadillac, Pauillac and Libourne while others include regions beyond.  

Top Regions in France

The extraordinary diversity of mainland France can be better appreciated with some knowledge of its geography, all of it packed into an area just under the size of two states of Colorado.

France is bordered not only by the Atlantic on its western coast but also the Ligurian and Meditteranean Seas on its southeastern coast. It boasts eight mountain ranges. The Alps and Pyrennes are the most impressive in size with Mont Blanc in the Alps rising over 15,000 feet above sea level, the 11th highest in the world. 

France has a number of overseas departments and regions, most of which are relics from its colonial empire but the mainland and Meditteranean island of Corsica are divided into 13 regions, each with its own wonder.

Use Stride’s filter features to choose everything from traveler’s age preference to travel theme. Below are the regions and their highlights, listed by cardinal direction which will help you to more easily visualize and book your French tour . 

1. Northern France 

Normandy - Just east of Paris. Discover the historic D-Day landing beaches and the majestic cliffs of the Alabaster Coast that inspired so many of the French Impressionist painters. See the water lily ponds of Claude Monet’s famous painting come to life in the village of Giverny, where he lived from 1833 to 1926. You can also visit the gardens on his property. There are over a thousand sites and attractions listed on the Normandy tourism site, making it one of the top regions to visit in France. Normandy Tours  »

Ile de France - The city of Paris makes this another top region in France. Be awestruck by the Eiffel tower and encaptivated by the art at the world’s largest art museum, the Louvre. Less than 20 miles from Paris, visit the Chateau Versailles, Disneyland and Euro Disney.  Paris tours with or without other stops in France and beyond will help you get started. 

Hauts de France - The Opal coast, so named for its opalescent light sits on the English channel. Visit the floating gardens and gothic cathedral of Amiens or Lille, the old capital of the Flemish region. 

2. Southern France

Provence-Alpes-Cote d’ Azur - One of the top regions in France for tourists whether for the beaches and resorts of the French Riviera, including Monaco, Nice and Cannes, the lavender fields of Provence or the gothic and renaissance buildings of Avignon.

For outdoors enthusiasts, Calanques National Park is a top destination in Southern France, greeting visitors with inlets of turquoise waters bordered by steep walls of rock.  

Corsica - The French military leader and emperor, Napoleon Bonaparte, came from Corsica. The island is located about 145miles from the southern coast. Many of the tours to Corsica include hiking. 

Occitanie - Explore Toulouse, the pink city, known for the variety of bricks used in its buildings. In Nimes you’ll find the best preserved Roman amphitheater in the world and in Cathar County, the fortified city of Carcassonne  with its imposing wall further fortified by 52 towers. 

3. Central France

Centre-Val-De-Loire - A top region of France known for its vineyards and chateaux (castles), homes to French kings of the Renaissance. The area is seen by many, many tourists from their bikes.  

Loire Valley Tours

4. Eastern France

Grand Est - Includes the regions of Alsace-Champagne-Ardennes-Lorainne. Tours to Alsace often take you to the bordering countries of Germany, Luxembourg, Belgium and Switzerland .

You may have guessed that visits to the tasting cellars of the champagne vineyards will be on your itinerary and perhaps the Route des Vins - the Alsace wine road. In its capital, Strasbourg, you’ll find the oldest Christmas market in Europe and for those inclined to military history, the Grand Est has plenty to tell from both World Wars. There are also several forests and parks to explore. 

Auvergne-Rhone Alpes - Glide down the slopes of world class ski resorts like Chamonix and Val D’Isere. See Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Europe and aptly called the “roof of Europe.” Auvergne, one of the largest protected natural reserves in Europe has more than 100 hot springs and nearly as many volcanoes.

Activities for both the summer or winter visitor may leave you with a shortage of energy but easily replenished by a visit to the spa and then perhaps some sustenance in the form of cheese, both of which the area is also known for. Tours to the French Alps  »

Bourgogne-Franche Comté - A top region in France known for its Burgundy vineyards, river tourism, medieval and renaissance castles. Dijon, one of the best preserved town centres in France is in the Burgundy region.

In France Comte which borders Switzerland the Jura Mountains and Vosges massif create a beautiful landscape varying in elevation and filled with lakes and forests. And if you haven’t tried Comte cheese, now’s the time. It’s one of the most highly produced in France. Tours to Burgundy  »

5. Western France

Bretagne -  Brittany is known for its Celtic history among other things. The Bretons, who speak Breton, not French, are a Celtic ethnic group native to the area. The names given to different areas of the coast speak to its diversity: Jade, Emerald, Wild and Pink Granite. A land of myths, legends, moorland and medieval towns. Tours to Brittany often include Paris, Normandy and the Loire Valley.

Pays de la Loire - South of Brittany is the western Loire. It, too, has its castles and vineyards although not as well known as the central Loire valley. You’ll find more of the dramatic Atlantic coastline, a masterpiece of religious architecture and the largest monastic site in Europe: the Abbey of Fontevraud. The second most visited theme park in France after Disneyland Paris is also in the western Loire, Puy Du Fou. 

Nouvelle Aquitaine - Located south of Pays de la Loire, Nouvelle Aquitaine was the first spa region in France. Dax is the most well known - since Roman times - but is just one of a whopping 30 spa towns. Not a spa-goer? Stay and enjoy fine sandy beaches and Bordeaux wine paired with food from one of the many Michelin starred restaurants. 

Food & Wine in France

France is not only the birthplace of the Michelin hotel and restaurant reference guide, now more than a century old, but its cuisine of “intangible cultural heritage” was designated a UNESCO cultural object in 2010. Accordingly, French cuisine - including its cheese and wine - is a source of great national pride. Indeed, the French way of life is inseparable from its gastronomy.

The Michelin guide publishes annual guides for hotels and restaurants in many countries these days but in France when the guide is published each year it sparks such a media frenzy that it has been compared to that of the Academy Awards. The loss or gain of a star can have significant consequences and as such, a chef can fall or rise from his or her celebrity level status in just one day. 

Quiche, bouillabaisse, cassoulets, souffles, coq a vin, crepes and creme brulee are some of the traditional French foods with which you are probably familiar. Generally known for its heavy sauces, meat-centric dishes and decadent desserts, one of the secrets to staying relatively trim is that the French eat for pleasure - and they don’t eat that way every day.

Whether over lingering lunches, 3 hour dinners or even longer sojourns to the cafe they’ve generally walked to, travel writer and author Rick Steves claims that the French have a legislated 35 hour work week and a self imposed 36 hour eat week. 

The physical diversity of France lends itself to a tremendously diverse production of cheese. There are 41 traditional regional cheeses designated AOP or “ Appellation d'Origine Protégée” meaning that they cannot be produced, processed or developed outside of the region from which they came due to the recognized expertise and terroir.

The designation protects against fraud and is a guarantee of quality. Other varieties number up to 400 by some estimates, although with sub varieties included, the number jumps to 1000. Cheese maps show the unique varieties produced in each region. But alas, what is food in France without its wine? Top culinary and wine tours in France  »

France disputes the title of largest producer with Italy and Spain but if ranked by area planted in vines, did you know that title belongs to China, then Spain? There are over 400 AOPs (AOPs replace the earlier AOC designations). Other classification systems are not as strict as those of the AOP; for example, IGPs (Indication Géographique Protégée). 

Rather than get lost in the complexity of the classification system, just start tasting! Generally, you’ll find lighter wines in the north and fuller bodied wines in the south where it is sunnier.

Below are the top wine regions in France and their main varietals, in order of highest to lowest acreage of vines. “ Sante!” ( To Your Health) 

Languedoc-Roussillon Main Varietals: White Wines: Chardonnay, Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Roussanne Red Wines: Grenache, Syrah, Carignane, Cinsaut Bordeaux Main Varietals: White Wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, Muscadelle Red Wines: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec

Rhône Valley Main Varietals: White Wines: Marsanne, Roussanne, Viognier Red Wines: Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre

Loire ValleyMain Varietals: White Wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Melon de Bourgogne Red Wines: Cabernet Franc, Cot (Malbec) Burgundy Main Varietals: White Wines: Chardonnay Red Wines: Pinot Noir, Gamay (in Beaujolais) Champagne Main Varietals: White Wines: Chardonnay Red Wines: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier Alsace Main Varietals: White Wines: Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc Red Wines: Pinot Noir

Cycling Tour Packages in France

There’s something about using your legs to propel you over terrain, especially terrain as beautiful as that of France. Cycling tours in France range from easy to extreme with the majority of them being moderate.

On the extreme end, hop in your saddle to tackle easier climbs at the start of your Pyrenees trip but find your legs pumping hard over Col du Tourmaletm,  one of the most popular mountain passes in the Tour de France at just under 7,000’.

But have no fear, there are more moderate Cols to climb on Tour de France cycling tours or for an easier ride, cycle the backroads of Provence . For moderate riding, cycle the Loire Valley and there’s even a number of self-guided cycling tours in France .

The Riviera and Provence

A visit to France may include a  tour along the Mediterranean Sea . The glamorous and sometimes ostentatious French Riviera beach resorts include Cannes (site of the film festival), Nice (the largest city), Cap Ferrat, and St. Tropez.

The Riviera is just part of sunny Provence in southeastern France, which is tucked between the Rhone River , Italy , the Alps and the Mediterranean. It’s a land where sea air, mountain gorges, vineyards, medieval villages, Roman ruins, olive groves and lavender fields combine to create a sensuous medley of sights, scents and tastes.

The light in Provence is so striking that painters such as Van Gogh, Cezanne, Matisse, and Picasso were all drawn here, immortalizing the landscapes, architecture, and people.

Provence is home as well to France’s second largest city and major port, Marseilles, which displays North African influences and is known for bouillabaisse, the local fish stew. All this has helped make Provence France’s number one tourist destination beyond Paris.

Trip Reviews

Christopher Postell

Highlights of France and Barcelona

This trip took the low road and tried to save money at the ...

Afsaneh Naghdchi

Very little was included in the tour. We didn't have any included tour of Paris and Barcelona, we had to pay ourselves for a hop-on hop-off tour while we were still ...

Not a good itinerary. Not enough sightseeing. Terrible choices of hotels specially in terrible locations. Not enough included sightseeing. Basically we spent hour...

Trusted Customer

I found it utterly weird + frustrating that Trafalgar office staff did not tell me that the much-desired optional in Barcelona at the dancing ...

Not enough time to see many places. The tour guide was not organized. Kept...

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Our French River cruises and land-based France tours transport you to a European destination that lives life to the fullest with the cultural panache that defines all things Français... explore colorful Provence, the Loire Valley, ancient abbeys, cobblestoned villages, Bordeaux, Côte du Rhône wine regions, Paris and more.

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Magnifique... a word that sums up the many cultural delights and panache of France... exploring Paris, the "City of Light" in the evening when it truly comes to life... the poignant memorials at Omaha Beach... a traditional picnic lunch in Gordes, dining as the locals do...and an infusion of ancient abbeys, Loire chateaux, and cobblestone villages that nourish your soul.

Land journeys, from parisian bistros and provençal farms to normandy beaches and loire valley châteaux, treasures await along the yellow roads in france..

Sip wines at private French vineyards with vintners who share secrets of the terroir... try locally produced cider and Calvados on Normandy farms... toast life in Paris, where brasseries, cathedrals and art-filled museums nourish your soul... and so much more. Join us in France on land journeys along the Yellow Roads to Paris, Provence, Normandy, Brittany and the Loire Valley.

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A quarter-century later, our first small ship cruise still sails the Mediterranean to or from the French Riviera...

Beginning or ending in Nice, our "Treasures of the Mediterranean" – Tauck's very first small ship cruise, still sailing a quarter-century later – takes you to explore Provence, Monte-Carlo, Elba, Corsica, Italy's Amalfi Coast, Sicily and Malta.

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From scavenger hunts in the louvre to a bicycle tour of versailles's gardens, family fun awaits in france....

Stroll into a painting by Claude Monet at Giverny... get hands-on experience with World War II equipment on Normandy's D-Day beaches... walk along the Pont du Gard... meet French cowboys on a ranch in la Camargue, where you'll dig into an authentic Provençal meal... and so much more on our Tauck Bridges trips and river cruises in France – including "Castles & Kings: London to Paris;" "Bon Voyage! France Family River Cruise;" and "Family Fun Along the Seine: Paris to Normandy."

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From Paris, the most romantic city in the world to the importance of gastronomy and fine wine, the delights of France are experienced on many levels, whether it be by land journey, river cruise or small ship.  In Provence... Lyon... Normandy... and along the Seine as you drink in the history, culture, architecture and much more.

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Tour With Véro

Experience paris & other parts of la belle france.

In-Person & Virtual Tours

Coming to France? Parfait ! Join Véro in the beautiful Loire Valley.

Book a tour with Véro and find out why French kings made this spectacular region of France their home in the 15th and the 16th centuries. Renaissance châteaux, royal fortresses, charming villages, old abbeys, gardens: The Loire Valley has it all!

Allons-y! (Let's go!)

In-Person Tours

Tours, Loire Valley

Cathédrale Saint Gatien, Tours

Virtual Tours

Head to France with Véro on YouTube

Château d'Azay-le-Rideau

I was so fortunate to take a private guided tour with Véro in her home city of Tours. Her knowledge of the city and her genuine enjoyment in sharing it with me was truly a pleasure! I’m looking forward to another visit in the coming months because, as I have learned through her many virtual tours, there is much more to see and do in the Loire Valley. In addition, I have benefited from her sound advice regarding travel in France.

One of my fondest memories of 2022 was getting to explore Tours and being shown the city by a guide who not only knows her craft well, but also clearly loves the place.

Your walking tour was memorable and one of the high points of our trip to the Loire! Thank you again.

Get to know Véro

Bonjour! I am a professional tour guide and learned with one of the best, Rick Steves. His company hired and trained me when I left the United States and relocated to my homeland in 2019. 

After a two-year hiatus, I happily returned to European roads in 2022. During that busy season, I took over 250 North American travelers around Paris and France. 

Life gets busy during the touring season. I am often out of town, leading tours for Rick between May and September. Currently, I work on three of his best-selling itineraries: “ Best of Paris in 7 Days ”, “ Paris and the Heart of France ” (11 days), and “ Loire to the South of France ” (13 days). 

Life is busy, yet I do return to my home-base, Tours between guiding assignments where I lead neighborhood tours in my city when I am not on the road. Join me?

Véronique was stellar! I appreciated how encouraging she was of my (and any other tour members) attempts to speak in French, and how she both encouraged us to practice and offered gentle correction of pronunciation when needed.

She absolutely encouraged us to be independent travelers and gave us lots of opportunities to practice those skills. Véro is an excellent educator and was such a great guide for this trip!

Rick Steves Tour Member

Véronique was interesting, accessible, and fun! She definitely helped make our tour experience great by giving us interesting information, taking care of any needs we had, and educating us about French culture. She will be a guide who is hard to beat on any future trips!

This woman was THE BEST! I'd follow her anywhere. She was smart, funny, witty, and kind, any positive adjective you can come up with. She made each and every one of us feel heard, special and important. She was the perfect teacher, I learned so much from her that I'd like to go back and just spend a few months there.

Book an In-Person Tour:  Tours & the Loire Valley

Tours is a beautiful mid-sized city, the gateway to the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s also under-rated and there’s a lot more to discover in town than meets the eye. 

As a local, I’ve spent hours walking the streets of Tours and researching the area’s cultural, historical and gastronomic heritage. You know how much I love it here if you follow me on social media where I share Tours and my French life daily.

I offer private tours only. Why?

• Private tours are more interactive: You have my undivided attention for several hours and get answers to all your questions. No lectures here! Expect a leisurely conversation as we explore this great city.
• Private tours are customizable: Interested in a specific time period, architectural style, in finding nature and peaceful spots in the heart of the city, in a fun shopping session? Just ask.

Join me on a half-day tour and let me introduce you to my favorite neighborhoods in Tours. Together, we will travel from the past to the present, as we explore medieval streets and lively squares and discover the lives of locals, then and now.

I offer two half-day guided walks:

“Tours: Two Hearts beating like One” is the perfect introduction to Tours and the Loire Valley’s rich history for first time visitors (included: Tours’ historic centers – there are two!)

“Le Petit Paris” will take us through neighborhoods and landmarks that developed through the 19th century when the city expanded south (included: a stroll through Tours’ loveliest garden and a visit to a historic hotel’s spectacular lobby.)

Those tours can be combined for a full-day exploration of the city. Lunch is not included. Reach out for full day pricing and special requests. Scroll down for half-day pricing.

Tours can be run in English or in French. (Higher Intermediate or Advanced speakers only. Please request when booking).

I also offer orientation sessions.

They are perfect if you want to make the most of your time in Tours and the Loire Valley. Find out more here.

IN-PERSON TOUR DETAILS Private Half-Day guided walks in Tours, Loire Valley

Information:.

Each of our half-day guided walks features landmarks in Tours’ city center. Some may not be that easy to find! Guided walks run about 3 hours each.

We finish our tour with an authentic French experience: lively conversation and a drink enjoyed "en terrasse" (weather permitting) at a favorite local café or restaurant.

Participants must be able to walk along cobbled streets and occasionally stand, mostly on flat terrain. Please wear comfortable footwear.

Our tours are designed for participants 16 years and older.

All tours include a city map and a brief introductory orientation to the city’s main districts and highlights so you may explore on your own afterwards.

Included: one beverage (coffee, hot beverage, glass of local wine) per person.

Half-Day Tour Price:

280€ Euros for up to three people. 60€ Euros per additional person. Paid at the end of your tour.

Additional Info:

France with Véro Patrons (*) receive a discount and other perks.

All Patrons have access to a list of my favorite hotels, apartment rentals and restaurants in Tours (PDF format.) Please let me know you are a Patron when booking. If you are not a Patron, PDF can be purchased separately for 20€ Euros.

(*) Discounted rate: 1 person = 195€ Euros (30% off.) 2 to 3 people = 225€ Euros (20% off.)

IN-PERSON ORIENTATION SESSION Navigating Tours and the Loire Valley: Orientation session

Looking for practical information about Tours and the area? This service is fully customizable to meet your needs.

Let’s meet at a local café and discuss your options as you discover Tours and the Loire Valley.

Questions about public transportation? Historic neighborhoods? Travel passes? The best restaurants or wine bars in town? Just ask.

Tours is the perfect homebase to explore the Loire Valley. Find out what towns and landmarks are easily accessible from here by car or by train and what discounts may be available.

Hint : So many châteaux, so little time… My favorite châteaux may not always be the ones listed in your favorite guidebook. If you are open to exploring the Loire Valley off-the-beaten path, I can help.

Planning to relocate to Tours? Ask me about the city’s best neighborhoods.

Questions about French life? The tipping culture? Local food specialties? Where to find the best produce in town? Here’s your chance to discuss what it’s really like to live in Tours (and in France!) with a local.

Our Orientation session includes a city map and a brief introductory orientation to the city’s main districts and highlights so you may explore on your own afterwards.

Included: one beverage (coffee, hot beverage, glass of local wine) per person. Up to 3 participants.

Orientation Session Price:

200€ Euros. Paid at the end of your tour. Duration: 2 hours.

(*) Discounted rate: 160€ Euros (20% off.)

Véro is charming and smart. Because she is French but also lived for years in the US, she has a unique perspective that really added depth to her approach. She is clearly a great teacher. We learned so much from her. Plus, she is fun! I loved how she collaborated with the local guides to enhance our experiences. I appreciated her thoughtfulness, kindness and patience, especially when there were unexpected challenges. She really instilled confidence in me so I could navigate the Metro by myself!

Pont du Gard, Southern France.

Ready to take an in-person tour?

Join me for an in-person Half-Day tour in Tours, France—in the beautiful Loire Valley! If you have questions, click the button below to reach out. Don't forget to sign up for La Mailing List for upcoming services and new virtual tours!

Hover for locale or click to view. Copyright France With Véro

When you can't make it to France...

France with Vero fan enjoying a virtual event at home.

Take a Virtual Tour:  Join Véro on YouTube

In 2020 and 2021, while international travelers couldn’t come to France, I brought France to them. As a virtual tour guide, I focus on doing what I do best: sharing quality, original content on Paris and France, via live streamed events (YouTube, Facebook, Instagram) and video tours.

How often do you get to look at France and French culture through the eyes of a native who immediately feels like a friend, according to many viewers? 

Meticulously researched, France with Véro virtual tours offer a blend of history, architecture, and scenes of daily French life. Expect lively commentary, no loud music or crazy camera moves! I never rush as viewers enjoy sights and stories. 

In the mood for some armchair travel until your next trip? Head to France instantly and tour with Véro on YouTube . Over 300 virtual tours around Paris and the rest of la Belle France await. That's hours of virtual travel fun and it's all free!

Test drive a virtual tour by clicking on the photos below (many more tours available on YouTube.)

Viewers say it best

Photo credit: Oliver Gee

You really brought St. Jean de Luz (Basque Country) to virtual life for me. You expertly mix historical background, architectural details, and the joie de vivre of the local community for us. Merci, as always, Véro!

History, culture, language and food all presented by a knowledgeable English-speaking French native who allows us to travel with her. Goodness, what’s not to like? Merci for all of this and for making 2020 more positive! (…) For many of us who are eager to visit France again, your content provides so much enjoyment (plus an ever increasing travel bucket list!).

Take a tour with Véro!

While you're here, enjoy the views!

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Tours to France

Ways to explore france, rail journeys, walking and trekking, food and drink, discover our france tours.

Whether you’re looking for a  guided cycling tour  or a  group walking vacation , our adventure trips to France cover a variety of routes that take you beyond the beaten track. Jump in the saddle and pedal along the gently rolling Loire Valley, or navigate the towpaths of France’s Canal du Midi to explore gothic architecture and local vineyards. For a more challenging ride, take on the Tour de France climb of Mont Ventoux on our  Cycle Provence tour . Or, get off-grid in the vast valleys of the Alps with our walking vacations in France. If the  Tour du Mont Blanc  (TMB) is on your bucket list, our  experienced local tour leaders  will lead you along snowy ridges, icy glaciers and lush green valleys on this classic walking pilgrimage.  Ready to book a trip to France but new to Explore? We've answered some of the  most-asked questions  about small group travel. 

Our most popular tours in France

Highlights of mont blanc.

Tour du Mont Blanc Trek

Cycling in France - Canals and Castles of the Midi

Cycle Provence

Cycle Marseille to Barcelona

A Taste of Southern France - Bordeaux to Toulouse

France tour highlights

Whether you travel for the ornate chateaux and beautiful gardens, the tranquil canals, soaring mountains, glittering coastlines or delicious cuisine, France offers a wealth of experiences to suit all kinds of traveler. 

You could find yourself pedaling serenely along the banks of the Canal du Midi, lacing up your hiking boots to walk the spectacular Tour du Mont Blanc route, or sampling sparkling wines in elegant vineyards.

Mont Blanc is the highest mountain in Europe (west of the Caucasus) and rises some 4,808 meters above sea level. Straddling three country borders with its immense bulk, the mountain is covered with a carpet of wildflowers in spring and summer, with the forests providing cool shelter from the heat. Tick off three countries as you embark on our  Tour du Mont Blanc  trip, tracing the historic circular route through France, Italy and Switzerland around the magnificent glacier-topped peak. It’s one of the most spectacular and well-recognized trekking routes in Europe, traversing some 148 kilometers over five major passes. Highlights include the charming Italian town of Courmayeur, enjoying the stillness of the Chamonix Valley and delicious local wine and mountain fare in traditional auberges along the route.

Canal du Midi

Weaving for some 240 kilometers across the South of France, the Canal du Midi was once considered one of the greatest construction works of the 17 th  century. Today, the peaceful waterway is used mostly for pleasure cruising, with small river vessels traveling between the sun-drenched towns of Carcassonne and Narbonne. The tow paths that follow the route of the canal are popular with walkers and cyclists, who can enjoy the scenery of vineyards, sunflower fields and medieval villages. Embark on our  Cycle Canal du Midi  and you’ll pedal between Cathar Castles and bountiful markets, the fortress town of Carcassonne and the wine-growing region of Béziers.

Perhaps best known for its rolling fields of fragrant lavender, hilltop towns clutching cliffs and almost wall-to-wall sunshine, the region of Provence is vast and marvelously diverse. In the morning you may find yourself among the rocky Southern Alps, while lunch maybe enjoyed to the sound of chirruping cicadas in a sleepy vineyard, and evenings spent among the elegant coastal resorts of the Cote d’Azur. Join our  Cycle Provence  tour to explore at a slower pace, spinning the wheels between the landscapes that once inspired Van Gogh and a fleet of other artists. You’ll visit the village of St-Remy-de-Provence, the southern slopes of magnificent Mont Ventoux and cycle between the charming villages of the Vaucluse.   

Solo travel in France

If you prefer to travel solo, our France vacations offer a great opportunity to explore, accompanied by expert tour leaders and like-minded travelers. Each of our tours has been designed to suit both solo travelers and those in groups of couples or friends, and you'll typically find that around half of your group is traveling solo. Not only will your vacation take you to fantastic sights, both big-hitters and off-the-beaten-track gems shared by our expert local guides, but you're also likely to meet like-minded fellow travelers to share your experiences with.

An adventure travel company you can trust

Unforgettable experiences.

From big wows to hidden gems, our tours leave you feeling that you've really explored.

Expert tour leaders

Chosen for their great knowledge of your destination and a passion to make your trip extraordinary.

Small group tours

Average groups of 11; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences.

Responsible at heart

How we operate sets us apart; our flexible booking policy, our loyalty scheme & sustainable approach.

Need some inspiration for your France tour?

7 questions answered for your first cycling trip

7 questions answered about your first walking trip

7 questions answered for your first small-group adventure tour

Home » Travel Guides » France » 15 Best Things to Do in Tours (France)

15 Best Things to Do in Tours (France)

It’s no mystery that Tours is a favourite base for people discovering the Loire Valley’s exalted châteaux.

Villandry, Chenonceau and Amboise are moments by car, and with the help of the Loire à Vélo network you can visit them on two wheels with ease.

But you may find that if you delve a little more into Tours’ history and attractions, it could be difficult to leave the city at all.

In the centre are timber houses and renaissance mansions on car-free streets, and museums that draw you into the city’s medieval past.

There are vineyards welcoming inquisitive oenophiles in the countryside and both the waters and banks of the Loire invite you to go wherever your sense of curiosity leads.

Lets explore the best things to do in Tours :

1. Tours Cathedral

Even by the glacial speed of construction in the middle ages, Tours Cathedral took a long time to be completed.

Building began in 1170 and wouldn’t be finished until 1547, but this means we’re met with a perfect summary of the evolution of gothic art.

The ensemble of original 13th-century stained glass windows in the ambulatory chapels and above the choir is one of the finest in France, and seems to generate its own light.

The cathedral has information panels giving you the meaning behind each image.

The marble renaissance tombs of King Charles VIII and Anne of Brittany’s children are also moving, as both died in infancy.

2. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours

The riches from Cardinal Richelieu’s 17th-century campaign against the Huguenots and the art seized from abbeys during the Revolution all ended up at Tours’ stellar museum of fine art.

Because of their religious source there’s a good body of Italian gothic primitives from the 14th and 15th centuries, while the two renaissance paintings by Andrea Mentegna are regarded as masterpieces.

You’ve got over a thousand artworks to get through, with sculpture by Rodin, Flemish and Dutch painting by Rembrandt and Rubens, and Impressionism by Monet and Degas.

3. Tours Botanical Garden

The city’s municipal garden has a bit of a troublesome setting, between the Loire and Cher, which made it susceptible to flooding in the past, with two devastating inundations in the mid-19th century that filled the greenhouses with two metres of water.

Even after being hit by bombs in the Second World War there isn’t the slightest hint of a troubled past at these serene gardens.

On your walk you may notice some trees you haven’t seen before, like the Chinese empress tree, ginkgo biloba and the endangered dawn redwood.

The animal park is from 1863 and has farm animals for kids to bond with, as well as more exotic species like wallabies.

4. Le Vieux Tours

Like all the best historic city centres the historic buildings on the pedestrian streets around Place Plumereau aren’t sterile museum pieces but vibrant cornerstones of local life, used as shops, restaurants and bars.

Place de Plumereau is at the nerve centre of one of the largest conservation areas in Europe, with renaissance mansions boasting sculpted reliefs or cantilevered timber houses, going strong for hundreds of years.

If you’re OK with everybody knowing you’re a tourist, jump aboard the little train that departs every hour from Place Plumereau in summer.

5. Musée du Compagnonnage

In the 16th-century Dormitory at the former Abbey of Saint-Julien is a museum devoted to a French workers’ movement that dates back to medieval times.

Roughly, the Compagnons du Tour de France is like a guild of journeymen that preserves historic trades and educates young people about them as part of an apprenticeship.

To complete the apprenticeship and become a “companion” a craftsman had to create a masterpiece for whatever discipline he worked in.

And these dumbfounding creations are presented at the museum, in all kinds of different disciplines, like metalwork, tailoring, shoemaking and woodcarving.

6. Hôtel Goüin

What may be the most beautiful of Tours’ many old building has just come through a long restoration and is open to the public once more.

Hôtel Goüin is an early-renaissance palace on Rue du Commerce, with a balustraded porch and the sort of loggia in which you might expect to see Juliet calling for Romeo.

During the restoration they unearthed fragments of an older building from the 1100s, with four arches and a well, which are on show.

You might just want to stop for a photo of that magnificent facade, but there’s an archaeological museum inside with artefacts from Roman times up to the 1800s.

7. Halles de Tours

Billed as the “Belly of Tours” (ventre de Tours), the city’s indoor market may not be France’s largest, but it’s a gastronome’s idea of heaven.

You may even want to bring your camera or have your phone at the ready, because the cheese, charcuterie, seafood and in-season fruit and vegetable counters are presented with real flair.

If you’re stuck for gift ideas then markets like this tick the box as they’re stocked with all the best from the region.

At Tours that entails wine from the Loire Valley and luxury chocolate.

The city is one of France’s chocolate capitals, and every years holds the Salon du Chocolat de Tours at the Centre de Congrès Vinci.

Come for lunch too: The oyster bar shucks your oyster as you go.

8. Jardin des Prébendes d’Oé

During the French Second Empire from the mid-1800s English-style parks like this one popped up in provincial cities across France.

This was a spot for urban families to take promenades, kids to play and for the city to put on outdoor concerts at the park’s gazebo.

There’s less of the formality of French parterres, as paths weave through tulip flowerbeds and  copses of lime, plane, cedar, chestnut and lofty redwood trees.

So if you could do with a moment of repose take a wander by the pond and pause for a tea or coffee at the kiosk.

On warmer days you could load up on cheese and charcuterie at the market and have the perfect French picnic.

9. Église Saint-Julien de Tours

The predecessors of this  12th-century abbey were wrecked by the Normans in the 9th century and then in a war between the feudal houses of Blois and Anjou in the 10th century.

But miraculously the building that followed has survived everything from the French Revolution to the Second World War.

It was part of a long-gone abbey, and the garden next to the church is where the cloister used to be, while the Musée de Compagnonnage occupies the old dormitory.

10. “Toue” River Cruises

Commercial craft floated along the Loire and Cher since antiquity, hauling people, wine, silk, lumber, salt and all sorts of other cargo up and down these rivers.

Because the waterways can get very shallow they used flat-bottomed sailboats called “toues”, and you can too! Toues can carry between 12 and 30 passengers for hour-long trips, or even romantic dinner cruises in the evening.

Their skippers know these waters and banks like the backs of their hands: And with the deck as your balcony, they’ll shed light on the Tours’ river trade, its many colourful characters and perils.

11. Loire à Vélo

If you had to picture some quintessentially French holiday activities, a bike ride next to the Loire with a backdrop of gentle vine-striped hills and châteaux must be one of the first that comes to mind.

About 150km of the of the Loire à Vélo cycle trail’s totalling 800km are in the Touraine region.

The route is clearly-marked, easy -going because it never leaves the riverside and convenient as there are dozens of hire stations along the way.

You could give yourself set destinations like Amboise or Villandry, which are both reachable in about an hour.

Or make more of an adventure of it by going further afield and spending the night at the inns on the route that are happy to accommodate cyclists.

12. Guinguette sur Loire

On the left bank of the Loire, just by Pont Wilson, is where Tours’ “Guinguette” takes place from May to September.

It isn’t officially summer in Tours until this outdoor café by the river is bustling every evening with locals and tourists at the bar terrace, taking part in dance lessons, enjoying concerts or watching movies at the outdoor cinema.

Tours is a student city so the atmosphere is always warm and energetic.

The location is wonderful, under willow trees and string lights, with the river rolling past.

And every year there Guinguette has something new on the schedule.

13. Wine and Gastronmic Visits

If you’re a wine-lover you’ve come to the right place.

There’s an absurd amount of AOCs nearby: A dozen within an hour, and five bordering the city.

The diversity will make your head spin more than the wine itself, with the reds of Touraine-Chenonceau, the whites of Touraine Sauvignon and rosés made in Touraine noble joué.

When it comes to precious foodstuffs there’s a saffron market in Preuilly-sur-Claise and a seasonal truffle market at Marigny-Marmande.

The local cheese, Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine is known to all for its cylindrical shape and the straw that pierces it through the centre.

To know more, pay a visit to the dairy at Les Passerelles or the child-friendly goat farm, Cabri au Lait, which makes Sainte-Maure but also has a petting zoo for the little guys and girls.

14. Château de Villandry

It would be criminal to visit Tours and not call in at one of the abundant château in the region.

Tours is touted as a gateway for these sensational pieces of French royal or noble heritage.

You can reach Villandry in 20 minutes, and it’s one of the finest.

The gardens are the showstopper at this château.

They were restored at the turn of the century by the Spanish doctor Joachim Carvallo.

He conceived several terraces of renaissance gardens, all with precisely trimmed boxwood hedges in joyous geometric configurations.

There’s a water garden, labyrinth, sun garden, ornamental garden with high hedges, but the most astounding is the formal medieval kitchen garden, all in neat plots.

15. Château d’Amboise

The home of Francis I and most of the French royalty in the 16th century is a 20-minute car or train ride to the east.

The château had its heyday in the renaissance period after Charles VIII turned it from a fortress into the Loire valley’s first Italian-style palace in the late-1400s.

In 1516 Francis I invited Leonardo da Vinci to live and work in Amboise, and the polymath’s home at Clos Lucé was actually connected to the Château d’Amboise by underground passageways that you can discover today by prior arrangement.

Da Vinci died here in 1519 and is buried at the Chapel of Saint-Hubert at the Château.

The gardens are embellished with spherical topiaries and the views from this spur above the Loire are divine.

15 Best Things to Do in Tours (France):

• Tours Cathedral
• Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours
• Tours Botanical Garden
• Le Vieux Tours
• Musée du Compagnonnage
• Hôtel Goüin
• Halles de Tours
• Jardin des Prébendes d'Oé
• Église Saint-Julien de Tours
• "Toue" River Cruises
• Loire à Vélo
• Guinguette sur Loire
• Wine and Gastronmic Visits
• Château de Villandry
• Château d'Amboise

Turn your dream vacation into reality

What To Do in Tours, France (Guide + Map)

• Milena Yordanova
• August 20, 2024

Located just an hour away by train from Paris, Tours is often used as a base for visiting the chateaux of Loire Valley. It is one of the largest cities in the Centre-Val de Loire region of France, well connected by public transport to the most famous castles in the area. Indeed, from here, you can easily reach the historic palaces of Chenonceau, Chambord, Blois and Amboise.

Once the capital of France, today Tours is a lively city boasting a beautiful historic centre with half-timbered houses and gourmet bistros. A perfect stop on your way through the Loire Valley!

What to do in Tours, France in one day

Thanks to its central location and excellent public transport connections to the nearby towns, Tours is a great base to discover the chateaux of Loire. This is one of the main cities I’d recommend you to base yourself in, especially if you’re travelling by train.

Besides being an excellent base for touring the historic chateaux, Tours itself is worth at least half a day of exploring. Take a walk along the narrow cobbled streets while admiring the half-timbered houses, the impressive Saint-Gatien Cathedral and the Renaissance Hotel Gouïn.

Follow my itinerary to discover the best things to do in Tours, France for one day. You’ll also find what are the most famous chateaux to visit near the city and some restaurant recommendations.

At the end of the blog post, you can find a map of this itinerary (with all attractions and restaurants’ websites).

What to do in Tours in one day

Breakfast at l’atelier du talemelier.

• Visit Basilique Saint-Martin de Tours

Tour de l’Horloge and Tour de Charlemagne

• Have a cup of coffee at Place Plumereau
• Admire Hôtel Goüin

Lunch at Les Gens Heureux

• Visit Saint-Gatien Cathedral

Hôtel de Ville de Tours

• Admire the art at Musée des Beaux-Arts
• Take a walk in the Botanical Garden
• Visit the quirky Musée de Compagnonnage

09:00 AM – 10:00 AM Start your one day in Tours with breakfast at L’Atelier du Talemelier or Kat’s Coffee . L’Atelier du Talemelier is a great bakery which offers quality pastries and sandwiches. However, if you prefer to enjoy some delicious cakes with your coffee, head to Kat’s Coffee.

Basilique Saint-Martin de Tours

10:00 AM – 10:25 AM Basilique Saint-Martin de Tours (Basilica of St. Martin) is dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours, the third bishop of Tours. It was built over the traditional burial site of the saint in the 5th century AD. During the centuries, the small basilica was replaced several times with larger structures.

The basilica in a Neo-byzantine style that you see today dates from the 19th century. However, you can still see some of the remains of the older Romanesque edifice – the western clock tower and Tour de Charlemagne (Charlemagne Tower). They are located just a few steps away from the current church.

Inside the crypt, you’ll find the tomb of Saint Martin.

10:30 AM – 10:45 AM Tour de l’Horloge (Clock Tower) and Tour de Charlemagne are the only remnants of the impressive structure of the 11th-century Romanesque Basilica of Saint Martin.

Tour de Charlemagne was built on the site of the tomb of Luitgard, the last wife of Charlemagne. The king was so greatly affected by her death in 800, that he decided that Luitgard would be buried in the Basilica of Saint Martin. In the 19th century, the Charlemagne Tower was converted into a water tower.

Although, it’s not possible to visit the towers, take a few moments and admire their structure. Just imagine the grandeur of the 11th-century Romanesque basilica, of which these towers were part!

Place Plumereau

10:50 AM – 11:05 AM Place Plumereau is the heart of the historic centre of Tours. It is a lively square with bars and restaurants, framed by charming 15th-century half-timbered houses. A popular place to sit and watch the world go by!

The square is named in honour of Charles Plumereau, a municipal councillor of Tours, who bequeathed 3000 francs to the city.

Hôtel Goüin

11:15 AM – 11:30 AM This Renaissance palace served as a private mansion of a family of silk merchants in the 15th century. The façade with its beautiful arches is a real masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance. So don’t miss to take a quick look and admire the exterior!

Hôtel Goüin is named after a family of Breton bankers who purchased the building in 1738. And don’t be fooled by the word hotel, this is not an actual hotel, but a museum for temporary art exhibitions.

12:00 PM – 02:00 PM For lunch head to Les Gens Heureux . This typical French restaurant offers a small selection of interesting dishes with a unique combination of flavours.

Saint-Gatien Cathedral

02:00 PM – 02:30 PM Tours Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Gatien) is dedicated to the first bishop of Tours – Saint Gatianus. Built between 1170 and 1547, it reflects the development of the Gothic style of architecture. Some of the cathedral’s highlights include the spectacular 13th-14th century stained glass windows and an Italian-style organ.

The cathedral houses the tombs of the children of Anne de Bretagne and Charles VII. Also, you’ll find a chapel dedicated to Joan of Arc. She had met with Charles VII here in Tours, an important meeting which became a turning point in the Hundred Years’ War.

02:45 PM – 03:00 PM The last stop of this Tours itinerary is the town hall, Hôtel de Ville de Tours. Take your time and enjoy its magnificent Renaissance Revival façade.

The town hall was built between 1896 and 1904 by the famous architect Victor Laloux. It is the same architect who designed the Orsay museum in Paris!

Dinner at La Maison des Halles

Finish your one day in Tours with dinner at La Maison des Halles . The wine list here is great and the menu is excellent (don’t miss the desserts – the best I’ve had during a week in France).

More ideas for your one day in Tours, France

Museum of fine arts.

The Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts) is housed in the former bishop’s palace. The museum owns a remarkable collection of Italian Primitives from the 14th-15th centuries. Among them are two renaissance paintings by Andrea Mantegna, considered masterpieces. You’ll also find many artworks by Delacroix, Degas, Monet, Rembrandt, Rubens and Rodin.

Don’t miss the staggering cedar tree at the museum entrance, which is over 200 years old!

Castle of Tours

Close to the cathedral, you’ll find the Castle of Tours (Château de Tours). Built in the 11th century, this small chateau served as a residence of the Carolingian dynasty. Today, it houses contemporary exhibitions of paintings and photographs .

Church of Saint Julien

The Church of Saint Julien (Église Saint-Julien de Tours) is a part of a former Benedictine abbey founded in the 6th century. Most of the church is in Romanesque style and dates back to the 13th century.

Tours Botanical Garden

Founded in 1843, the Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanique de Tours) is the oldest city park. It’s a lovely area with lots of wildlife and thematic gardens – greenhouses, orchards, medical gardens, arboretums and many others. There is also a petting zoo with farm animals like donkeys, sheep, rabbits and poultry!

Musée de Compagnonnage

Musée de Compagnonnage occupies the dormitory at the former Abbey of Saint-Julien. This quirky museum is dedicated to the city’s trade guilds. The exhibition represents various objects related to metalwork, tailoring, culinary, shoemaking and woodcarving.

Where to stay in Tours, France

If you intend to use Tours as a base to explore the Loire castles, take a look at my recommendations below on where to stay. You’ll find most of the historic attractions and restaurants in the area between the Loire River and the Central Railway station. So, I’d advise you to look for accommodations in this area, because you’ll be within walking distance of everything.

Perfectly located in the heart of Tours, just a short walk from everything. Also, the hotel features a good bistro-style restaurant and a wellness centre with Spa, hammam and heated indoor pool. Why book – a short walk from the Old Town and Tours train station, heated indoor pool, private parking

Les Trésorières is an excellent choice for an upscale stay in Tours. Central quiet location and bright spacious room. A great wellness area, featuring a hammam, sauna and an indoor pool. Why book – at walking distance to the Old Town and Tours train station, indoor pool, parking nearby

Getting around in Tours, France

Find here a detailed map of this Tours walking itinerary.

The Old Town of Tours is very compact and you can easily explore it by walking in less than an hour.

How to get to Tours, France

Tours is well connected to other major cities in France by train. For example, it’s less than a 2 hours journey from Paris Gare Montparnasse. Tours station (Gare de Tours) is the city’s main railway station. It’s located just a short walk from the Old Town.

Check timetables and book train tickets online at SNCF official website .

Tours is divided into three different types of zones – red, orange and blue. The first two are limited to 3 hours of parking, while the blue one – to 5 hours. However, parking in the Old Town is free on Sundays and Monday – Saturday (between 12 PM – 2 PM and 6:30 PM – 9 AM).

If you’re arriving by car I’d recommend booking a hotel with parking or using any of the paid car parks in the city centre (see a list of all car parks here ).

Day trips from Tours, France

Loire valley chateaux.

The central location of Tours makes it a great base to explore the chateaux of Loire Valley. You’ll find a few of the most popular castles just a short train ride away. For more information, take a look at my guide on how to visit the Loire Valley .

Here are the most famous chateaux you can visit near Tours:

• Château de Chenonceau – known as Château des Dames, it’s the most beautiful Renaissance castle of Loire Valley
• Château de Chambord – this royal residence is one of the largest chateaux in France
• Château de Blois – home to 7 kings and 10 queens of France between the 13th and 17th centuries
• Château d’Amboise – the place where Leonardo Da Vinci spent his last years and where he is buried
• Château de Chaumont – a fairytale 10th-century castle, once home to Catherine de Medici and Diane de Poitiers
• Château de Villandry – is known for its beautiful French Gardens, which consist of several terraces of renaissance gardens

Blois is one of the most charming towns in the Loire Valley. The city is known for its royal chateau and the Cathedral of Saint-Louis, a Gothic masterpiece. For more information, take a look at my travel guide on how to spend one day in Blois .

How to get to Blois Take a train from Gare de Tours to Gare de Blois – Chambord (40min journey). From there, it’s a 10min walk to the Old Town and the chateau.

Located just a short train ride away, Angers is a great option for a day trip from Tours. The city is famous for its castle, the ancient seat of the Plantagenet dynasty and the Apocalypse tapestry, the largest medieval tapestry in the world. Find out more in my travel guide to the best things to do in Angers .

How to get to Angers Take a train from Gare de Tours to Gare d’Angers Saint-Laud (50min journey). From the central train station, it’s about a 10min walk to the city centre.

How many days in Tours, France

Is one day in tours enough.

The city of Tours can be easily visited in less than a day. In fact, most of the people come not for sightseeing but to use the city as a base to explore the nearby castles. Still, there is plenty to see, so dedicate at least half a day to this charming town.

Best time to visit Tours, France

If you intend to visit Tours as a part of your Loire Valley trip, do it in the months of May, June or September. Crowds are fewer and the weather is not hot, but nice and warm.

Faqs about visiting Tours, France

Tours is one of the largest cities in the Centre-Val de Loire region of France. It is worth visiting not only for the impressive Saint-Gatien Cathedral and the Renaissance Hotel Gouïn, but also for the picturesque half-timbered houses. Thanks to its central location, the city is an excellent base to explore the castles of the Loire Valley.

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About the author

Thank you for the blog which covers Tours in depth. We are travelling On Nov 07th to Blois to see three castles and unfortunately all public transport stops on Nov 05th. We don’t have car. Apart from Taxi any other alternate solution ?

Many Thanks -Yoga

Unfortunately, there is no other option, but a taxi. However, there are still a lot of castles, which are are reachable by train – Château de Chenonceau, Château de Blois, Château de Chaumont, Château d’Amboise, Château d’Angers, Château de Langeais, Château de Saumur, Château d’Azay-le-Rideau, Château de Loches, Château de Chinon and Château de Meung-sur-Loire.

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32 things to do in Paris in autumn at least once in your life

Ahhh autumn! Falling leaves, changing colors... This photogenic season is also a great opportunity to do lots of things in Paris. Are we going?

Who said autumn was gloomy? After discovering the things to do in Paris at least once in your life , and 30 unusual places to see , here are the best things to do in autumn in Paris . Concerts, walks, gourmet tea time…

1 – Jardin Albert Khan to see the Japanese garden in autumn colors

If you want to see colorful landscapes , we recommend a visit to the Jardin Albert Khan . Autumn is the perfect season to see the maple trees change color : it’s called “momiji”. A natural spectacle to behold all autumn long.

📍1 Rue des Abondances, 92100 Boulogne-Billancourt, France

2 – Chill out at the cinema to see the best films of the moment

Autumn is also the perfect season for a little cinema. You can take advantage of tickets priced at 6.50 euros at the Grand Rex and 9.99 euros at all Pathé cinemas . The perfect opportunity to see the best films of the moment !

3 – Have a hot chocolate at Angelina’s

What could be more comforting than a hot chocolate this time of year ? The perfect occasion to visit Angelina, one of the best hot chocolate bars in Paris . This rich, creamy chocolate can be enjoyed without moderation, on the premises or to take away.

📍226 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris

A candlelit concert? That’s what the Candlelight evenings are all about! You choose your style: Chopin, Vivaldi’s 4 Seasons, Colplay, Taylor Swift, Zelda… And you get to enjoy one of the most iconic venues in Paris . In short, there’s bound to be a Candlelight concert for you!

📍 Choose your Candelight concert

5 – Taste one of the best chocolate mousses in Paris during autumn

Autumn is the season for comfort food ! For a real treat, we recommend you try the chocolate mousse from the bistro Le Bon Georges . The mousse, served in an old-fashioned cocotte, is absolutely divine and will make you forget everything else. The special touch? The little chocolate shavings on the mousse , for even more deliciousness.

📍45 rue Saint-Georges, 75009 Paris

6 – Cheese at Fromage Pain et Vin

Pain, vin et fromages is our favorite autumn address. If you’re looking for gourmet plates, French regional specialties, cheese fondues, raclette and even country-style croute, now’s the time to try this nugget of an address.

📍3, rue Geoffroy Langevin, 75004

7 – Feast your eyes on Lumières en Seine

Come and enjoy a brand-new immersive experience at the Domaine national de Saint-Cloud during the luminous walk. A magical, interactive experience to discover right now.

📍Grille Clemenceau – Saint-Cloud, 92210

8 – Treat yourself to a delicious pastry at the Comptoir du Ritz

For a gourmet break, we recommend you try the delicious pastries at Le Comptoir du Ritz . Refined pastries created with love and talent by pastry chef François Perret . Our favorites? The filled madeleines , the signature marble cake and the red fruit tart. Simply a must!

📍38 Rue Cambon, 75001 Paris

9 – Watch the best Halloween movies on Netflix in autumn under your comforter

Autumn means chills… And in this Halloween season, what better way to watch the best horror films and series than at home? With a good plaid and a hot drink in hand, you’re in for a weekend of scares !

10 – Admire Montmartre’s wall of leaves in autumn

Autumn is the time to see the leaves change color. Montmartre’s leaf wall is clearly the spot not to be missed. Those red, orange and yellow colors are absolutely sublime this time of year! A bucolic stroll in Paris!

📍Rue Saint-Vincent 75018 Paris

11 – Applaud your favorite artist in Paris in autumn

There’s no time like the year for a good concert ! Once again this year, artists of all styles will be on stage to delight you. Autumn is the perfect time to feast your eyes on the best concerts of the moment .

How about a behind-the-scenes tour of one of the capital’s most legendary movie theaters ? Le Grand Rex invites you into its secret studios for a never-before-seen tour. Experience the magic of cinema even more intensely !

📍1, Boulevard Poissonnière, 75002

13 – Stroll through the Père-Lachaise cemetery throughout autumn

Yes, it’s true, we could advise you to visit Père-Lachaise in every season, so sublime is this cemetery . But in autumn, it’s even more majestic. The autumn colors of its trees are absolutely magnificent. And who knows, with a bit of luck, you might even catch a glimpse of the cemetery’s foxes ?

📍8 boulevard de Ménilmontant, 75020

In autumn, Disneyland Paris is decked out in 1,000 lights for Halloween. Young and old alike flock to admire the horrific parade of villains for the evening. The park, too, is decked out as a pumpkin and ghost paradise . It’s a sight to behold all season long!

📍Bd de Parc, 77700 Coupvray 🚆RER A direction Marne-la-Vallée Chessy

15 – Do a horror escape game in Paris during autumn: L’abattoir

For a good scare with your friends, we recommend a scary Escape game . Our favorite? The slaughterhouse! An immersive escape game where you have to escape from a serial killer … Ready for a thrill?

📍 23 rue servan, 75011 Paris 🎮 2 to 5 players ☠️ Difficulty all levels

If you’re looking for a good night out, we recommend the Oscar Comedy Club. Created in 1993, it’s one of the oldest comedy clubs in Paris. We go there to applaud tomorrow’s new talents , in a hushed, warm setting.

📍 155 rue Montmartre, 75002

A beer spa ? Yes, it does exist, and you’ll find it in Paris. To unwind in a setting that’s as relaxing as it is unusual , we recommend you try this spa like no other . Hops, malt and brewer’s yeast are said to have beneficial properties for skin and nails. And if you’re feeling a little thirsty, you can enjoy a cold beer from the tap.

📍 101/103, rue de Sèvres, 75006 Paris

18 – Tea time in a mysterious place: café contresort

Are you a fan of magic? In this cool season, we’d love to try a cocooning place . Café Contresort is more than that! It’s a real place dedicated to magic and gourmet delights , where your sorcerer’s soul will come out! Here, you can sample delicious sweet and savoury delights, as well as have your cards drawn! A deliciously esoteric and spooky place, perfect for this season.

📍11, rue des Portes Blanches, 75018

Every first Saturday of the month, the Musée Grévin invites you for a unique nocturnal visit . As if by magic, the wax dolls come to life and reveal all their secrets …

📍10 Boulevard Montmartre, 75009

20 – Cuddle up with cats at Chat Mallows Café

During these cold months, we’re craving warmth and comfort . So why not head to a cat bar? At Chat Mallows Café , you’ll revel in gourmet drinks while cuddling big tomcats.

📍30 rue des Volontaires, 75015 Paris

21 – Find your wizard’s wand at the 2 broomstick boutique

Harry Potter fan ? Then this is the store for you. It’s clearly THE paradise for all wizards and muggles ! You’ll find official wands, never-before-seen goodies like the Marauder’s Map or the Time Turner, and of course books on the adventures of your favorite wizard. You’ll be well equipped to start your marathon of the whole saga !

📍61 Boulevard des Batignolles, 75008 Paris 📍11 Cr Saint-Emilion, 75012 Paris

22 -Take a dip in the Oberkampf pool

Saved in extremis from demolition, the Oberkampf swimming pool is now a listed historic monument . Now’s the time to take a dip !

📍160 Rue Oberkampf, 75011 Paris

23 – Visit the Musée des Arts Forains

The Musée des Arts Forains is an absolutely wonderful place to see at least once in your life in Paris. But it’s true that in autumn, when the sun declines faster, that’s when all the magic happens. A magical place to discover during this season (and all others).

📍53 avenue des Terroirs de France, 75012 Paris

24 – Book a treehouse to see the autumn landscapes 2 hours from Paris

For an outdoor getaway, why not rent a tree house ? We recommend the Spa Beau Rivage tree house. The view of the lake is sublime, and will give you an instant change of scenery! It’s like being in Canada , without leaving Paris (or almost).

📍Rue des Etangs 60170 Saint-Léger-aux-Bois 🚗1 h 30 from Paris

Welcome to the temple of street art in Paris. If you love urban art, graffiti and bright colors , then you absolutely must make this visit.

📍 1 place d’Italie, 75013 Paris

26 – Ride a vintage train in the Parc des Chanteraines

To make the most of autumn, you can also take a ride on an amazing little train , and admire the sublime colors of this season . A ride of over 5 km to appreciate the park from every angle. A great ride for the whole family at this time of year!

📍 46 Avenue Georges Pompidou, 92390 Villeneuve-la-Garenne

27 – Celebrate el dia de los muertos

In autumn, we celebrate the dead in color and music with El Dia de lors muertos . A festive, joyful and colorful day to experience in Paris on November 2.

28 – Take a pastry class to create delicious autumn macaroons

Macaroons are part of France’s sweet heritage . They were Queen Marie Antoinette’s favorite pastry. To make this delicious sweet confection, why not book a pastry class ? In the end, you’ll be the king of the oven !

📍 40 Boulevard Haussmann, 75009 Paris

29 – Test the best bistro in Paris 2023: Au Moulin à Vent

This autumn, we’re in the mood for some fine dining . Let ‘ s head for “Au Moulin à Vent”, where you can enjoy simple, authentic cuisine . A real treat to try out!

This exhibition is by far one of the craziest of the season . Did you like playing with Lego when you were a kid? How about seeing works of art made entirely from Lego at ? ? A T-Rex over 6 meters tall , a reproduction of Van Gogh’s Starry Night… For the rest, we’ll leave you to discover!

📍 22 Rue du Départ, 75015 Paris

31 – See Giverny and the beauty of Monet’s gardens

If you’ve never been to Giverny, now is as good a time as any to visit. In autumn, Monet’s gardens are decked out in flamboyant colors , to the delight of your eyes. Discover this incredible place, less than 2 hours from Paris , and enjoy the landscapes that inspired the artist.

📍 84 Rue Claude Monet, 27620 Giverny

32 – Take a tour of the Tuileries Gardens

The Jardin des Tuileries is simply a must-see in any season . But in autumn, it’s a fabulous place to be! The colorful trees are sublime and will make you want to take a stroll on a sunny afternoon .

📍 113 rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris

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