France
Grand cathedrals, Marian shrines, storied vineyards and the eternal romance of Paris

About France

Overview

France rewards travelers with an almost impossible richness, from the boulevards of Paris and the chateaux of the Loire to sun-warmed lavender fields in Provence. It is a land of deep Catholic faith, home to Lourdes, one of the most visited Marian shrines in the world, and to soaring cathedrals such as Chartres and Reims. It is also the spiritual home of fine wine, with legendary regions like Bordeaux, Burgundy and Champagne. For those who love art, history, gastronomy and gentle romance in one journey, few countries offer so much within such easy reach.

On the map

Touristic sites

The landmarks that shape a journey through France, explore them on the map.

  • 1
    Eiffel Tower, ParisThe wrought-iron symbol of Paris, rising above the Champ de Mars beside the Seine.
  • 2
    Notre-Dame & the Seine, ParisThe great Gothic cathedral on the Ile de la Cite, at the historic heart of the capital.
  • 3
    Palace of VersaillesThe lavish royal palace and formal gardens of the Sun King, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • 4
    Sanctuary of Our Lady of LourdesOne of the world's great Marian pilgrimage shrines, where the 1858 apparitions took place.
  • 5
    Chartres CathedralA masterpiece of French Gothic architecture, famed for its medieval stained glass.
  • 6
    Mont-Saint-MichelThe abbey island rising from the tidal flats of Normandy, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • 7
    Chateau de Chambord, Loire ValleyThe grandest of the Renaissance chateaux, at the heart of the Loire Valley.
  • 8
    Bordeaux wine countryA world-famous wine region and elegant riverside city, the gateway to the Medoc and Saint-Emilion.
  • 9
    Nice & the French RivieraThe glamorous Mediterranean coast of azure bays, promenades and hilltop perfume towns.
Best time to travel

April to October

France is a rewarding destination in every season, though the most comfortable window for touring runs from April to October. Spring brings blossom and long light to Paris, the Loire and Provence, while early autumn offers warm days, the wine harvest and thinner crowds. High summer is glorious on the Riviera but busy in the cities, and the Alps shine for both summer walking and winter skiing. Lourdes welcomes pilgrims year-round, with the largest gatherings in the warmer months.

Apr–JunWarm spring days and blossom, ideal for Paris, the Loire and the vineyards
Jul–AugPeak summer, hot and lively, best for the Riviera and the coast
Sep–OctGolden shoulder season with the grape harvest and comfortable touring weather
Nov–MarCooler and quieter, atmospheric city breaks and Alpine ski season
Good to know

France at a glance

The practical essentials for planning your trip. Our team confirms the details for your dates and nationality.

Best time to travelApril to October is ideal, with spring and early autumn balancing warm weather and fewer crowds. High summer suits the Riviera, and winter brings Alpine skiing and festive markets.
CapitalParis
LanguageFrench; English is widely spoken in tourism and the main cities.
CurrencyEuro (EUR). Cards are accepted almost everywhere, though it is handy to carry some cash for small cafes, markets and tips.
Entry / visaFrance is in the Schengen area, so many nationalities can visit visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. From late 2026, visa-exempt travelers will need an approved ETIAS travel authorisation before arrival.
Getting aroundFast TGV trains connect Paris with Lyon, Bordeaux, Marseille and Nice in a few hours, while a car or private transfer is best for the Loire chateaux, the vineyards and Provence.
What to book

Best tours in France

A taste of our most-loved journeys. Every one is a flexible starting point for your tailor-made trip.

Wine & Gastronomy

France Wine Country

A journey through the great vineyards of Bordeaux, Burgundy and Champagne, with tastings, cellars and fine regional tables.

Religious & Pilgrimage

Sacred France, Shrines and Cathedrals

A faith-centred route to Lourdes and the great cathedrals of Chartres, Reims and Paris, with Masses and processions along the way.

Classic & Cultural

Classic France Highlights

Paris, Versailles and the chateaux of the Loire, tracing the art, history and grandeur of France.

Cultural

Provence & the French Riviera

Lavender fields, Roman towns and hilltop villages of Provence paired with the azure glamour of the Riviera.

See all France programs
Why France

The specials

Lourdes, a world-famous Marian shrine

In 1858 the Virgin Mary is reported to have appeared to a young girl, Bernadette Soubirous, at a grotto in Lourdes, which has since become one of the most visited Catholic pilgrimage sites on earth, welcoming millions each year to its processions and healing waters.

The vineyards of Bordeaux and Burgundy

France is the spiritual home of fine wine, and a journey through the chateaux of Bordeaux and the slopes of Burgundy pairs celebrated vintages with elegant villages and superb regional cuisine.

The chateaux of the Loire Valley

Strung along the Loire, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape, the Renaissance chateaux of Chambord, Chenonceau and Amboise recall the golden age of the French court amid manicured gardens and gentle river country.

Questions about France?

Read our frequently asked questions, or tell us what you're dreaming up and we'll design it around you.

Read the FAQ Plan a Trip

Travel facts verified from France.fr, official France tourism website, GOV.UK, France entry requirements, UNESCO World Heritage Centre, France, European Union, official ETIAS website, Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, official website. Sample tours are suggested starting points; details and pricing are finalised by the Tourkom team.