France Tours & Packages

France Tours and River Cruises by Region

You might be surprised to learn what were once considered “provinces” in France are now considered “regions.” In total, France has 18 regions all with their own capital city. Here are some of our favorite regions to explore on one of our across France that you’ll definitely want to check out deciding where you want to go and what you want to see on your France tour.

Normandy Tours

Travel to Normandy to stand on the Pointe du Hoc, overlooking the beaches where soldiers fought in World War II. Most France tours to Normandy include a visit to pay respects at the American Military Cemetery of Saint-Laurent, near Omaha Beach, where Allied Forces landed on D-Day. Visit Rouen, the capital of Normandy, to admire its ancient cathedral - a masterpiece of Gothic style and the subject of a series of paintings by Claude Monet. Wander through the narrow streets to the Old Market Square, where a more modern church commemorates the burning of Joan of Arc in 1431. Visit the D-Day Museum in Arromanches and see the remnants of the artificial port in the bay. Spend time at the Bayeux Tapestry Museum and learn about the epic story of William, Duke of Normandy becoming the King of England. One of our favorite places to see on a tour through Normandy is the hilltop abbey of Mont Saint-Michel. Situated on an island, the abbey is reached by a bridge across the shining sands. Behind the outer ring of defenses huddles the small town - it's one street containing shops, cafes, and hotels.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine & Bordeaux Tours

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is an area famed for its wine, beaches, and rustic countryside. The historic region encompasses the southwest corner of France, along the coast, and where the country borders Spain, what’s known as The Northern Basque Country. Tours that visit Aquitaine often stop in Bordeaux, Fort Médoc, Cadillac, Blaye, and Libourne. Bordeaux, the regional capital, proclaims itself the wine industry capital of the world. A french trip to Bordeaux offer views of thousands of vineyards, breathtaking backdrops, wines, and cultural treasures. The legendary Médoc region abounds with prestigious wine châteaux. The medieval town of Saint-Émilion is an ideal place to wander through cobblestone lanes lined with wine shops and bakeries. Lucky visitors to Saint-Émilion can enjoy a wine tasting in the cellars of a Grand Cru estate. Libourne’s market is the heart and soul of the town; offering the freshest vegetables, the ripest cheeses, the most luscious fruits, the loveliest flowers, and a chance to chat with the local producers and growers.

Île-de-France & Paris Tours

Travelers on Île-de-France tours will most certainly visit Paris but should also take the time to explore La Roche-Guyon, Vernon, Giverny, and Mantes-la-Jolie (Versailles). On a tour through the Île-de-France region, immerse yourself in beautiful Paris, the City of Light. You’ll see the impressive Eiffel Tower, the imposing facades of the Louvre, the steps of Montmarte, the famous bridges that cross the River Seine, the obelisk in the center of the Place de la Concorde, the busy Champs Elysées, and Napoleon's Arc de Triomphe. If you’re an avid foodie, Paris is an absolute delight. Visit markets and head into areas where Parisians go about their daily lives to explore small shops and sample local treats and delicacies. Visit Monet’s home in the village of Giverny, where he lived and worked for more than 40 years. Monet also often painted the little riverside town of Vernon, so you are likely to recognize scenes the master rendered in oils.

Languedoc-Roussillon (Occitanie) Tours

In the south of France, the region of "Languedoc- Roussillon" (known as “Languedoc”) recently merged with the neighboring region of Midi-Pyrénées to form a new region under the name "Occitanie" Visitors to France often seek Languedoc tours to see the famous three-tiered, retired aqueduct known as the Pont du Gard. The region is also one of the top producers of wine in France, so you’re guaranteed gorgeous rolling hills, a mild climate, and a lot of wine to sample.

The Centre Region of France and Loire Valley Châteaux Tours

The Loire River in the Centre region of France is lined with magnificent châteaux that embrace the gorgeous landscape and celebrate fine food and wine, making the region one of the most attractive destinations in France. On Loire Valley tours, visitors will often seek to experience the fairytale châteaux of Chambord and Chenonceau. Head to Château de Villandry, the jewel of the Loire, to visit the glorious sustainable gardens, and make sure you don't miss the water, ornamental, and fragrant kitchen gardens. Another château not to miss in the area is the famous Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, considered one of the best representations of French Renaissance architecture. 

Burgundy and Provence Alpes–Côte d'Azur Tours

Perhaps two of the most famous areas in France, Burgundy and Provence offer visitors the region’s incomparable wine and cuisine plus access to art and history. During the lavender season, approximately mid-June to mid-August, your travels should take you to the famous lavender fields of Provence. If you're in the area, you'll want to travel to Arles, a city that has existed since the sixth century BC when the ancient Greeks founded it and named it Theline. Known for its remarkable Roman ruins, Arles so inspired Van Gogh that he painted some 200 paintings there. Stroll the very streets made famous by the artist. It was also here that the Romans built their first bridge across the Rhône River, creating a vital overland route between Italy and Spain. At a point on the east bank of the Rhône River before a wide delta, the walled city of Avignon is one of the most fascinating towns you can visit in southeastern France, with a host of historic gems to explore—including the fortress residence of rebellious popes who broke from Rome, known as the Palace of the Popes. 

Can't decide which cities and places you want to visit in your France tour? Make it simple by starting with the Best of France tour to help narrow down your search.

Frequently Asked Questions About France Tours

When is the best time to tour France?

The best time to visit France is in the springtime, followed by the summer and autumn seasons next. Spring will almost always guarantee fewer crowds and cooler temperatures ranging from 55°F to 68°F. Plus, Paris in spring is absolutely incredible with fewer crowds, blooming trees, and that gentle weather. 

What parts of France should I visit?

If you only get to see one city on a French vacation, the best place to visit i is Paris. Visitors flock to Paris to explore the mecca of fashion, food, art, and more. If you're there, try to catch the sparkling lights of the Eiffel Tower up close or from the deck of a riverboat cruising the Seine. Travelers can dedicate full days to exploring the Louvre in Paris and strolling the nearby gardens of the historical Palace of Versailles.

If you have more time to spend in this gorgeous country, we highly recommend visiting the Loire Valley for the châteaux, Bordeaux for the vineyards and wine, Normandy for the history, Mont-Saint Michele for the photo opp, Basque country for the cheeses, and Giverny for a peek into Monet’s world. People come from far and wide to pay their respects or revisit the poignant D-Day Beaches and WWII sites throughout the Normandy region. Tours that visit Bordeaux, the Loire Valley, and central France are also incredibly popular. The country is without a doubt one of the most memorable places you can explore in Europe. 

What is the currency in France?

The currency in France is the Euro (€). While credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, carrying some cash is recommended for smaller towns and markets.

What voltage do they use in France?

France uses a 230-volt electrical system with a frequency of 50 Hz. The standard plug type is Type F (also known as Schuko), which has two round prongs. Type C plugs have two round prongs and are also commonly used. You may need a voltage converter for specific devices if you’re traveling from a country with a different voltage (e.g., the U.S., which uses 120V). However, most modern electronics like phone chargers and laptops are dual-voltage and only require a plug adapter.

Is English widely spoken in France?

English is not widely spoken in France, especially compared to countries like Germany or the Netherlands. While many people in tourist areas (such as Paris, Nice, and Lyon), hotels, and major attractions speak some English, it is less common in smaller towns and rural areas.

The French generally appreciate when visitors try to speak a few basic phrases in French, such as Bonjour (Hello), Merci (Thank you), Parlez-vous anglais? (Do you speak English?) can be helpful and appreciated. Check out these handy guides to learn How to Order Like a Local in a French Bakery and How to Order Wine in French. 

What should I pack for my trip to France?

Packing depends on the season and destination, but general travel essentials include comfortable clothing, good walking shoes, a power adapter, a camera, weather-appropriate attire for the season you're traveling, and attire appropriate for visiting religious sites, which can also double as a nice outfit for a night out! For more tips, visit our guide on What to Pack for a Guided Tour.

What should I wear when visiting religious or cultural sites?

Certain sites have dress codes, such as covering shoulders and knees. For a detailed guide, check What to Wear When Visiting Religious Sites.

Do I need a visa to travel to France?

Visa requirements vary by country and nationality. U.S. travelers can check the latest visa and entry regulations with our easy-to-use Visa and Passport Requirements Tool.

Should I exchange money before I go to France?

Most destinations accept major credit cards, but having some local currency can be helpful for small purchases. Learn more about exchanging money in our Guide to Currency Exchange and Payments While Traveling.

How much should I tip in France?

Tipping customs vary by destination. To avoid confusion, check our comprehensive Tipping Guide for International Travel.

What are some important cultural customs to be aware of?

Understanding local etiquette can enhance your experience. Read our Guide to Cultural Customs and Etiquette Abroad.

Is travel insurance necessary for a trip to France?

Travel insurance provides peace of mind for unexpected situations like trip cancellations or medical emergencies. Learn why it’s recommended in our Travel Insurance Guide.

How do I stay connected while traveling in France?

Many destinations offer Wi-Fi, but you may need a local SIM card or an international phone plan. For more details, visit our guide on How to Stay Connected While Traveling.

Are there any safety tips I should follow when traveling in France?

Staying aware of your surroundings and keeping valuables secure is always wise. Read our Essential Safety Tips for Travelers.

How many months in advance should I plan a trip to France?

We recommend you plan your France trip between 4 -10 months before you want to travel. Airlines don’t publish fares much further out than 10-11 months. Off-peak (April–May, October–November), you can book for better deals 3–6 months in advance. Luckily, we take care of all of that for you! If travelers want to go for a special anniversary or event, they’ll call us years ahead of time to book so they know they are set and we're handling the details for them. While we love a great last-minute getaway, always ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after you plan to return to the States. Keep current with country entry restrictions, and ensure you have any visas you’ll need to travel. Planning earlier allows you plenty of time to renew your passport or apply for a visa if required.

Why Should You Visit France?

It's well known that a France vacation is something everyone should have on their travel bucket list. France is for lovers: lovers of art, architecture, history, fashion, cuisine, wine, and scenery—all the ingredients for a perfect vacation. In truth, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better location with something for everyone than France. Guided tours ensure you make the most of your visit, with expert guides providing insights and taking care of all the details. From Parisian culture and cuisine to numerous historic landmarks, monuments, sculptures, and museums, you are sure to find multiple reasons to visit France. Our tours in France give you easy access to one of the most sought-after destinations in the world, Paris, and many other fantastic places and cities. If you have any other questions about France and how GET can help you plan your France tours, reach out to our team, and we will get in touch with you as soon as possible! You can also check out our Frequently Asked Questions about Guided Vacations to learn more.