Wide angle shot of the Pont d'Avignon bridge, with the palace on the other end. The river water in the forefront, and a blue sky with clouds above.

France Tours & Holidays

Escorted tours and holidays to France

Bird's eye view of the Castle Of Carcassonne. Surrounded by trees and grass, and a pathway that loops around the castle. The castle has towers with red and blue turrets, and a distant view of a town can be seen behind it, under a grey/blue sky.
Castle Of Carcassonne

One of Europe’s most popular holiday paradises, La Belle France is a captivating place to explore, where no two regions are the same. A country of historic cities, stunning hilltop villages, rolling vineyards, sprawling lavender fields, towering Alps and sun-soaked shores, France awaits discovery.

From the historic streets of Paris to the sun-drenched vineyards of Bordeaux, from the orchards of Normandy and Brittany to the windswept Atlantic coast, and from the lakes and mountains of the Haute Savoie to the Mediterranean shores, every corner of France has its own special charm. Soak up the sophisticated, metropolitan buzz of Paris, relax into the slower-paced charms of Provence, or unwind completely and indulge in the leisurely joys of a cruise along the Rhône. For a more rugged, untamed beauty, head to Corsica, where mountainous landscapes meet stunning beaches and the island’s unique blend of French and Italian cultures creates a one-of-a-kind experience.

Outdoor seating outside The Palais Des Papes, that has white umbrellas, street lighting and trees above. A cream, wide manor is at the end of the road, and the edge of palace on the left.
The Palais Des Papes, Avignon

France’s cultural repertoire is vast. Paris alone is home to some of the world’s finest museums and galleries, to glorious historic palaces and churches, and to some of Europe’s most astounding modern architectural wonders. This is the nation that gave the world Proust, Descartes and Sartre; Monet, Manet, Matisse and Gauguin; Bizet Debussy and Edith Piaf. But beyond all these stellar sights, great minds and inspired artists, the simple elegance of everyday French culture, "la vie Française", turns daily rituals into unforgettable moments, be it coffee and a croissant in a Parisian cafe, a stroll through elegant parks and gardens, or relaxing with a glass of locally produced wine after a wonderful, simple meal.

Whether you end up exploring the pretty streets and elegant boulevards of Paris, riding a cable car to discover glacial panoramas above Chamonix, or seeing the lily ponds and gardens at Monet's country home in Giverny, your holiday in France will leave you with unforgettable memories an experiences to treasure.

Between the countryside and the coast, and from the mountains to the rivers, canals and cities, there’s something for everyone on a holiday to France.

Things to do in France

Food and fashion. Iconic sights, Vast landscapes and great cities... There are so many things you simply must not miss when you visit France that you could easily spend a lifetime exploring. Here are just a few examples.

Chocolate croissants, one in the background which has been broken apart.
Chocolate Croissant, France

Food & Drink in France

Whether it's for simple breakfast fare of coffee and croissants, lazy lunches in a brasserie or cafe, or the gastronomic wonders of haute cuisine in some of the world’s most celebrated restaurants, food in France is justly and widely celebrated. And, from the humblest plate to the most eye-wateringly expensive dish, it's an integral part of any holiday to France.

Wherever you travel, you’ll experience fine food, with each region adding to the overall mix with its specialities. Whether it's the soft, ripe cheeses and apple dishes of Normandy; traditional country fare like coq au vin, cassoulet, rabbit or beef bourguignon; rich, calorie-laden, alpine dishes like tartiflette or fondue; or the bounty of the sea in dishes like Provence’s famed bouillabaisse, you’re never far from great food in France. There are iconic, traditional dishes to try, like escargots, foie gras and cuisses de grenouilles (frogs’ legs), as well as the simple pleasures of frites and croque monsieur. The choice is endless.

Glasses of white and red wine lined up with pieces of cheese in front. The names of them written next to the cheese.
Wine and cheese tasting

Wine is produced in virtually every French region, even in Normandy, where cidre and calvados rule. And whether your tipple is champagne from the Epernay, crisp whites from the Loire, the celebrated grands crus of Burgundy and Bordeaux, roses from Anjou and Provence, the flinty whites of Macon or the earthy Malbecs from Cahors you're sure to find a glass of something to enjoy.

France FAQs

First trip to France? Here are a few questions you might have.

Time Zone

GMT +1

Avg. Flight Time

2 hours

Visa

Not required

Currency

Euro

Discover our blog

Best Places To Visit In September Featured on Best places to visit in September

Best places to visit in September: How to finish the summer on a high

Looking for ideas on the best places for a sun holiday in September? Let Newmarket Holidays inspire you with a round-up of late summer sun escapes.

Holiday ideas for late summer sun

Holiday ideas for late summer sun

Late summer holidays: Escape to Europe's warmest destinations with Newmarket Holidays. Read our blog and book your getaway today.

5 great European rail journeys

5 great European rail journeys

We’ve picked some of the finest, most scenic railway journeys in Europe, including short journeys that can easily be made in a day.

You'll love our holidays