How to Book a France Tour
France embodies beauty and elegance. The country also revels in its reputation for romance, culture, and cuisine. Whether waking up with a warm croissant, sipping champagne while overlooking a lush vineyard, or enjoying glacial panoramas, you will quickly discover how France features beauty and elegance. The variety of heritage, history, culture, and activity can be daunting, but Zicasso is here to assist you in arranging your perfect combination of destinations and experiences.
There are three ways to plan and book a trip:
1. Get a customized tour planned and booked by a travel professional. Travel independently on your own schedule.
2. Book a group tour. Join an escorted group tour with a fixed departure date.
3. Plan and book a trip yourself.
Zicasso offers the best solution for a customized tour by matching you with top travel specialists who plan and book the trip for you. Our travel agency division, Marageti, specializes in helping you book an escorted group tour. There is no extra cost to you for either service.
Custom Tours
A customized tour is one that is planned by a travel specialist according to your specific interests, preferences, and schedule. Whether you desire a family-friendly adventure or a romantic getaway, each of the accommodations, activities, and destinations is tailored to your preferences. The knowledge and experience of your travel specialist make a big difference. Zicasso has spent thousands of hours vetting the best travel partners. We act as a referral service, matching you with specialists that best meet your goals and priorities.
Escorted Group Tours
A group tour offers the advantage of convenience at a great value. The schedule is fixed, the itinerary is pre-planned, and a dedicated tour director travels with the group throughout the trip. A group tour can be 30 - 50% less expensive than an equivalent customized tour. Out of the many hundreds of group tours, how do you select the right one for you? Our travel agency division, Marageti, has sales agents who specialize in helping travelers weigh the pros and cons of each group tour. We give you personalized recommendations to find the best tour for you.
Goals and Priorities
What are your goals and priorities for the trip? These should drive your decision for either a customized tour or a fixed departure group tour. We are here to help you make the right decisions to make your dream trip a reality.
Must-See Destinations in France
Alongside our France travel specialists, we have organized suggestions for any trip length. A custom Zicasso tour designs your trip around your goals, desires, and needs, but the following lists act as a guideline when planning your France trip.
Most travelers from the United States spend 10 nights in France. 10 nights of traveling gives you more time to explore the diversity of destinations across the country, from the famous museums of Paris to beaches of Normandy and the vineyards of Bordeaux. How and where you travel depends on your goals when visiting France. The following information provides an introduction of possibilities based on the length of your trip.
7 to 9 Day Trips
If you have between one week to nine days in France, we suggest that you visit Paris, Loire Valley, Normandy, and Burgundy. Organizing your days will help maximize your time to explore the essential highlights of each destination. Your Zicasso travel specialist will ensure that your trip is designed around your goals and organized in the best way possible.
7 Days
Days 1-3: Paris
Days 4-5: Normandy
Days 6-7: Loire Valley
8 Days
Days 1-3: Paris
Days 4-5: Normandy
Days 6-8: Loire Valley
9 Days
Days 1-3: Paris
Days 4-5: Normandy
Days 6-7: Loire Valley
Days 8-9: Burgundy
If you have more time (10-16 Days), we recommend:
If you have approximately two weeks in France, we suggest that you further explore the remaining sites of France’s top six destinations, which include Paris, the Loire Valley, Provance, the French Riviera, Bordeaux, and Burgundy. Around 14 days will give you the chance to experience the culture and the highlights for an authentic trip.
All Zicasso tours are customized to your preferences, but here is how we recommend spending your time:
10 Days
Days 1-3: Paris
Days 4-5: Normandy
Days 6-8: Loire Valley
Days 9-10: Burgundy
12 Days
Days 1-3: Paris
Days 4-5: Loire Valley
Days 6-7: Bordeaux
Days 8-9: Provance
Days 10-12: French Riviera
14 Days
Days 1-3: Paris
Days 4-5: Loire Valley
Days 6-7: Burgundy
Days 8-9: Bordeaux
Days 10-11: Provance
Days 12-14: French Riviera
15 Days
Days 1-2: Paris
Days 3-4: Normandy
Days 5-6: Loire Valley
Days 7-8: Burgundy
Days 9-10: Burgundy
Days 11-12: Provance
Days 13-15: French Riviera
16 days
Days 1-2: Paris
Days 3-4: Normandy
Days 5-6: Loire Valley
Days 7-8: Bordeaux
Days 9-10: Lyon
Days 11-12: Avignon
Days 13-15: French Riviera
How many days is enough to see France?
14 days is ideal for a France trip. Two weeks gives you enough time to experience the highlights of France with time in Paris, Normandy, Bordeaux, and the Loire Valley. You can also divide your time during a 14-day France trip by visiting Paris, Provance, and the French Riviera. Two weeks gives you plenty of options, but one of the most important aspects of a two-week France trip is your ability to slow down and enjoy the ambiance, scenery, and culture as the French do.
Essential Experiences for the Best France Vacation
During your France tour, you can witness the work of master artists that are displayed in celebrated museums or sample delicious cuisine in the culinary capital of the country. You can also find stunning boutique shops, fine wines, and medieval towns.
Best Way to Experience Paris
With its wide boulevards that are lined with trees, classic bistros that are filled with the scent of roasting chicken, and boutique shops that highlight the city’s timeless fashion, Paris is a monument to the icons of France. During your France trip, you can enjoy the following essential experiences in Paris.
What to See & Do
The Main Must-Do Tours in Paris (2-3 days depending on pace)
Visit Iconic Paris
- Discover the monuments for which Paris is known when touring wonders like the Eiffel Tower, Arch de Triomphe, and Sacré Coeur.
- Witness the marvels of history and master artists in the Louvre Museum, which hosts ancient artifacts and artwork, such as the Venus de Milo and Mona Lisa.
- Explore the majestic colors and unique textures of Impressionists and post-Impressionists, which are displayed inside the d’Orsay Museum.
Culinary Paris
- Experience the true flavors of Paris and greater France with a culinary tour of Les Halles, which traces the food history of the city.
- Embrace the diverse flavors of chocolate and pastries with a tour that samples the best confections throughout Paris.
Best Way to Experience the Loire Valley
The Loire Valley embodies French grandeur. Opulent estates, lush riverbanks, and charming villages speak to the vibrant history of dukes, nobles, queens, and kings. You can revel in the following essential experiences of the Loire Valley during your France vacation.
What to See & Do
The Main Must-Do Tours in the Loire Valley (2-3 days depending on pace)
Chateau Exploration
- Visit the regal estates and lavish palaces of the valley that embody famous designs, such as the Chateau de Chambord, Chateau de Chenonceau, and Chateau d’Usse.
Follow Joan of Arc
- Trace the life of the famous French general, Joan of Arc, inside the city of Orleans to find landmarks like Cathedral Sainte-Croix.
- Wander through the Forteresse Royale de Chinon, where Joan of Arc met with Dauphin Charles, to find a masterpiece of medieval architecture.
Culinary Loire Valley
- Indulge in the true culture of the Loire Valley on a culinary tour that offers a taste of exquisite local flavor, from cured meats to cheese and from pastries to wines.
Best Way to Experience Normandy
The rugged coastline brings to life the war-torn history of the region, from the 11th-century Norman invasion to the D-Day landings of the mid-20th century. Towering limestone cliffs, dense woodlands, verdant meadows, and the captivating image of Mont Saint-Michel accentuate the dramatic contrasts of the landscape. The following are essential experiences you can have when in Normandy during your France vacation.
What to See & Do
The Main Must-Do Tours in Normandy (2 days depending on pace)
Medieval Pilgrimage
- Visit the stunning Abbey of Saint-Michel to view the mythical Gothic spires that soar more than 328 feet above the sea. They can be reached by foot at low tide.
Discover World War II
- Stroll along the battlefields that are connected to the invasion of Normandy at sites like the Memorial de Caen for insight into the war.
Art History
- Witness the fascinating Bayeux Tapestry, which is an 11th-century masterpiece that depicts the Battle of Hastings in 58 distinctive scenes.
Special Interests & Activities in France
Traveling with Zicasso provides you with exclusive access to many activities, excursions, and tours for a distinctive experience. The following information offers insight into our recommended experiences and can be tailored to focus on your unique interests.
Best Food & Wine Destinations
Food and wine are integral parts of the heritage in France. Layers of flavors from seasonal and local ingredients create mouthwatering cuisine. The terroir of a small region helps grape varietals reach their full potential. Gastronomy developed through the centuries is influenced by the cultures of surrounding countries as well as ingredients that are abundant in the sea, plains, and mountains. Fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, grains, meats, and seafood demonstrate France’s sophisticated gastronomy. The country is also the largest producer of wine in the world growing award-winning vintages across seven primary wine regions.
Bordeaux
Bordeaux represents one of France’s fundamental winegrowing destinations. The landscape brims with castles that rise from oceans of vines and produces the likes of merlot and cabernet. The oceanic climate and the moderate influence of the river creates complex and elegant wines, including some of the world’s finest and rarest wines, which are perfect for enthusiasts and the occasional wine-drinker alike.
Champagne
Endless rows of vines, effervescent wine, and the aroma of damp soil create an ethereal combination in the winegrowing region of Champagne. The sparkling wine has an audible fizz around the stylish cities and captivating villages that line the Champagne Routes. The soils of the region absorb oceanic and continental influences.
Zicasso’s Exclusive Access to France Best Wine
Zicasso travel specialists can organize private tours and design exclusive excursions for food and wine enthusiasts. You can experience private cooking classes, sample mouthwatering wines at an award-winning vineyard, or enjoy a private wine event at an opulent chateau. You can also learn more about France’s wine history, production, and particular varietals from a local sommelier.
Art & History
France is proud of its heritage and culture with a rich history, which is evident in its dynamic art that began approximately 20,000 years ago. Secluded caves hide the work of ancient dwellers, and museums showcase the long history of art that ranges from Roman occupation to medieval cathedrals and from Renaissance palaces to Impressionist masters. Art and history have become intertwined in France. Both are characterized by the dreamy landscapes crafted by prominent artists during la vie boheme and expressed in the establishment of the Académie Royale de Peinture et de Sculpture in the 17th century. Works like the Lascaux Caves and the Bayeux Tapestry capture ancient design while artists like Matiss and Rodin inform influential expression.
Must-See Art Museums & Attractions:
- Experience the depth of history and artistry on display in the Louvre Museum in Paris. Here, art displays spread across the more-than-652,300 square feet of galleries.
- Explore the dazzling colors and vibrant textures on display in the Musee Matisse in Nice. Here, you can find oil paintings, drawings, sculptures, and tapestries inside a 17th-century villa.
- Witness the incredible collection of Impressionist paintings in Le Havre’s Musee des Beaux Arts Andre Malraux. Here, you can find work by Pissarro, Renoir, Monet, and Sisley.
History
History in France feels current and alive with preserved architecture, inspiring artwork, and cuisine that is steeped in tradition. The history of France embodies Old World heritage with more than 40,000 years of narrative have been discovered within the rugged landscape or revealed above the layered soils in the form of Roman ruins. Neighborhoods in Paris retain their elegant ambiance, and villages inland of the Cote d’Azur act like living museums that are protected by their remote position in the mountains. On a customized Zicasso trip, we can design custom tours with specialized guides, such art historians who are connected to local communities, archeologists with a PhD, or professors of regional culinary history. We can also organize history-focused small-group tours with a certified guide, and more.
Active Tours
Active tours in France highlight the beauty of the country from a unique perspective and focus on the dynamic landscape of the coast, snow-capped mountains, and deep valleys. We suggest the following active experiences when visiting France.
Hiking
- Languedoc - Follow the Cathar Trail through the stunning region of Languedoc, which is known for its dramatic castles, stunning scenery, and legends that are linked to the Holy Grail.
- Mont Blanc - Witness the highest peak in Europe on trails that are perfect for short treks or expert climbing excursions beneath the looming summit at 15,780 feet above sea level.
Cycling
- Bordeaux - Enjoy a leisurely excursion along the Canal des Deux Mers trail, which links the Atlantic coast to the Mediterranean Sea with lovely views of the Bordeaux countryside.
- Mont Ventoux - Experience the thrill of cycling a portion of the Tour de France route along the slopes of Mont Ventoux (for experienced riders).
Private Excursions and Special Access
Zicasso’s travel specialist partners have unparalleled experience in developing and providing insider access. Your excursions and activities will be customized to your specific goals and interests to ensure that your time in France is the trip of a lifetime. The following list offers some examples, but the possibilities are endless.
- Bask in the charm of a private dinner at a historic chateau in the Loire Valley.
- Dine in the Michelin-starred restaurant inside the Eiffel Tower for an elegant ambiance and majestic view.
- Enjoy the opulence of a gala dinner inside a historic chateau in the Burgundy region.
How much is a tour of France?
The starting price of a custom-tailored France trip is approximately $275 per person, per day.
For an escorted group tour, the starting price can be approximately $150 per person, per day.
The cost of a France vacation is dependent on several factors, such as the:
- Length of your trip
- Season (month) of travel
- Class of hotel
- Number of locations/cities you visit
- Number of guided day tours and activities (e.g., cooking class, wine tasting, etc.)
- How much you spend on meals, shopping, etc.
A vacation such as this is often the biggest purchase of the year. It will also likely be one of the most memorable experiences of your lifetime. To get the most out of your trip, we highly recommend using an expert France travel specialist to plan a customized France tour that is tailored to your specific interests and budget. You can also join an escorted group tour so that most travel arrangements are pre-planned for you. This way, you can travel hassle-free and relax while a professional tour director and guide takes care of all logistics and any issues that might arise.
The cost of a tailor-made France tour typically starts at $2,750 per person for a 10-day trip, i.e., at $275 per person, per day during the low or shoulder-season.
This includes:
- 3-star hotels (shared twin room)
- Some guided day tours and activities
- Transportation in France, such as airport transfers and domestic flights
A 5-star, tailor-made France tour, where most services are upgraded and extra unique experiences are included, typically starts at $6,000 per person for a 10-day trip (or $600 per person, per day).
Everyone’s priorities, interests, and preferences are different. Submit a trip request on Zicasso, and we will personally match you with an expert trip planner who will help you customize your dream trip or help you select the right group tour while also taking your budget into consideration.
Best Time to Visit France
Updated: February 25, 2020
The best time to visit France is in May and June or again in September and October. These months represent the shoulder season of travel, which offers great weather and smaller crowds.
The months you might choose to travel to France will also depend on your goals. For example, months like January and February offer the best opportunity for snow sports. June and early September are great for visiting the French Riviera, especially if you wish to lounge on the sand and enjoy the Mediterranean Sea. July and August are also great times to enjoy the warmth of the Mediterranean but are also the region’s peak season, which results in larger crowds.
The climate varies across France throughout the year, which reveals the country’s diverse topography. The summer months of July and August are often the most popular around France, especially near the coastline. The shoulder season of spring and fall have consistent, mild weather with smaller crowds. The winter is a less crowded time to visit France but can result in cold weather across the country.
How far in advance should I plan a trip to France?
To ensure that you can enjoy your time in France and experience the country the way you prefer, you should plan your trip between four to six months in advance. You could plan your trip up to 12 months in advance if you wish to travel to a destination like the French Riviera during the high season. If you wait too long to plan your France trip, you may not get your preferred hotels or travel guides.
Modes of Transportation in France
The best way to see France in 10 days is with a combination of fast trains and private transfers. The TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) trains are high-speed and quickly connect travelers to large cities across the country, such as Paris to Bordeaux or Lyon. When traveling beyond destinations that are accessible by the TGV, private transfers are reliable, fast, and designed around your schedule, especially when traveling to the countryside. A private transfer also helps with carrying luggage, which can be challenging when traveling with large, heavy bags on a variety of trains.
Renting a car in France is easy but not recommended. Having a car in France is a bit of a nightmare due to traffic in large cities, getting lost on country roads, or worrying about driving after visiting vineyards. Private transfers eliminate the challenges that are associated with driving in another country, especially when guided by a local who knows different routes, the regional culture, and the best possible places to stop.
Your Zicasso travel partner ensures that your logistics are as smooth as possible by including private airport transfers and high-speed trains between destinations when available. Zicasso will also include private drivers when available to create a stress-free France tour.
What to Consider When Traveling Through France
When traveling on a France tour, you must consider certain aspects of travel, such as logistics, accessibility, and safety. The following information covers important travel considerations so that you can enjoy a stress-free experience in France.
Is France Safe for Travel?
France is safe for travelers. As with many major cities around the world, there is a risk of petty theft, such as pickpockets or scammers when in crowded areas. You should remain vigilant and keep an eye on your belongings, and stay aware of your broader surroundings.
Travel Insurance
You’ve booked your dream vacation, now protect it with travel insurance. A wide range of factors can leave your vacation in limbo. Medical emergencies, inclement weather, and unexpected cancellations can cause turmoil for your trip, so in the unlikely event of a disaster, get the travel insurance coverage that provides peace of mind. To get a quote, visit our travel insurance page.
For Families
France is a country with a focus on family and traditional values. When traveling in France as a family, you should always consider the size of your group in order to reserve the appropriate number of rooms or number of seats needed during your transfers. Bigger groups require more advance notice, and some hotels may not have connecting rooms. When traveling as a family with a Zicasso specialist, you will always have family-friendly guides who can help introduce your children to the culture, museums, or history in an active and engaging way.
For Seniors
Seniors must consider the terrain when traveling in France. Many of the streets are paved with cobblestone and are sometimes inclined. During the summer, the heat can also be a factor that affects travel around France. An expert Zicasso specialist will minimize any mobility challenges or stamina considerations by ensuring that your guides organize your tours accordingly in addition to booking appropriate luxury accommodations that are known for having the necessary amenities. Traveling with a private drive will also ensure that you have assistance with your luggage. Traveling in small groups through Marageti allows you to hit the highlights without worrying about your travel logistics.
For Couples
France is the embodiment of romance, and a travel specialist knows the best destinations for couples who wish to combine activities and romance. Whether eager to explore history, wander hidden villages, sample chocolates, or embrace the unspeakably romantic properties of France, your specialist will help you create intimate memories for the perfect France vacation.
For Travelers with Disabilities
Your France travel specialist can help any guests with mobility challenges by focusing on alternative arrangements to possible concerns, such as hotel restrictions or inhospitable streets. Our experts’ attention to important details will ensure that you can enjoy France’s highlights with ease to fulfil your dream trip.
Best Airports to Fly In & Out of France
The best airport to fly in and out of when visiting France is Paris’s Charles de Gaulle International Airport (CDG). The majority of flights from North America will fly directly to Paris, but flights from major airports on the East Coast of the United States often fly directly to Nice Cote d’Azur Airport (NCE).
The busiest airports in France are:
- Paris (CDG)
- Nice (NCE)
- Lyon (LYS)
Find the Best Flight
When flying in and out of France, the most convenient airport is Paris (CDG) even when traveling to other cities and regions throughout France. Paris’ Charles de Gaulle Airport has the largest number of flights that arrive and depart from France. Nice Airport (NCE) is a great option when spending the majority of your trip around the French Riviera or South of France.
Domestic Flights
Domestic flights exist in France and can be an easy way to travel long distances in a short amount of time; however, we do not suggest flying between cities to catch your flight home. Flights can be delayed or canceled, and while this is rare, it only creates a stressful environment when your trip should be relaxing. Traveling by private transfer or high-speed trains offer equally efficient methods of transportation without the challenges of airport security, traffic, and the possibility of delays.
Flights Via Zicasso
Zicasso Air Desk is an international air ticketing service that eliminates the stress of finding and booking the right flights for your upcoming vacation by employing the same personalized service you can expect from planning a trip with Zicasso. Our competitive flight pricing, 24x7 Service & Support, and Complimentary Consultation of Routing vs. Pricing with an Expert Flight Specialist make finding the perfect flight for your trip effortless.
Recommendations for the Return Traveler
When returning for another France tour, you can travel into the depths of the cities and countryside beyond the essential destinations of Paris, the Loire Valley, Normandy, and Burgundy. The following list gives our suggestions on where you should visit during your return trip to France.
Dordogne
Rich food, captivating history, and elegant chateaus define Dordogne and embody greater France. From the prehistoric cave art at Lascaux to the picturesque medieval villages and from vineyards that blanket the valleys to limestone hills that block the horizon, Dordogne represents French heritage and the marvels of the French countryside.
Troyes
As one of France’s most romantic towns, Troyes shines with a preserved medieval history through its half-timbered homes that line the warren of cobbled lanes. A timeline of wealthy merchants supported the elaborate Gothic churches, contemporary museums display vibrant collections of heritage that stem from art to apothecary tools, and the traditional French ambiance originates from shady trees and the bans of the winding Seine.
Related France Tours by Zicasso
Here is our list of other France Tours we offer:
Themed:
Specific France Destinations:
Multi-Country France Vacations:
