Travel to France 2025
If you are a lover of art, culture and romance, you should definitely visit France. Rated the world’s most visited country, France offers natural beauty and glorious architecture in abundance. From the bustling metropolis of Paris to stunning landscapes and picturesque countryside villages, France really is a travel destination worthy of its reputation.
The top 5 things to do in France
The reason why millions of people visit France every year is that there are countless things to do. You can go sightseeing in the magnificent French Alps, visit the numerous monuments and museums spread across the country, or indulge in exquisite French wines and cuisine.
1. Sight-seeing
You can't travel to France without seeing Notre Dame, the Arc de Triomph or the magnificent view from the top of the Eiffel Tower. The Alps, Europe’s greatest mountain range, forms a stunning landscape, but that is not the only beautiful sight in France. There are also the picturesque villages in the Art Nouveau architectural style, as well as spectacular coastal scenery.
2. Visit museums and monuments
France, which is home to over 40,000 monuments and 1,218 museums, is a fascinating place to visit if you love art and culture. A must-see when you're in Paris is the Louvre, the world’s largest museum. With more than 460,000 pieces of art and artefacts, you'll need more than a day to take it all in.
3. Wine tasting and French cuisines
When visiting France, make sure to attend a local wine tasting event. Whether it’s in Bordeaux where you will experience the rich clarets, or in Southern Rhone, the home of the spicy reds, these wine tasting events often come paired with regional cuisine.
4. Adventure sports
The French Alps do not just provide beautiful scenery but also an excellent venue for sporting activities. These include skiing, snowboarding, mountaineering and rock climbing. If you are visiting with family or friends, these activities can be a great way to bond and make amazing memories.
5. Take a walk through the charming Old Quarters of Paris
The medieval-themed neighbourhoods in the Old Quarters of Paris offer a unique ambience. Start in the Latin Quarter, walk to Petit Pont bridge, then head to Ile de la Cite before finishing in Ile Saint Louis. The stroll will leave you invigorated, but ready for a glass or two in a charming cafe.
Our best hotels in France
Here are our three best hotels to stay in while visiting France:
Hotel and Spa Cantemerle
The Hotel and Spa Cantemerle is a 4* hotel located in Province, France. It’s enclosed in a stunning Mediterranean park and offers views of the Mediterranean seas, the Southern Alps and Camargue plains.
DoubleTree by Hilton
Located in the Medieval city of Carcassonne and surrounded by breath-taking scenery and vibrant culture, DoubleTree by Hilton is a stylish place to stay while in France. The hotel also has an indoor swimming pool, cocktail bar, fitness centre, a spa with sauna and a Hamman to make your stay exceptionally restful.
Renaissance Paris Republique
The Renaissance Paris Republique, located in Paris, has beautifully designed interiors, chic dining opportunities and blissful wellness facilities that guarantee a relaxing stay. Designed to combine modern elegance and contemporary style, this hotel encapsulates the vibe of the City of Love.
When is the best time to travel in France
The best time to go to France depends on the activities you have planned out for your holiday. If you plan to go sight-seeing, the best time is in May and September. During that period, you will be able to avoid bigger crowds and have a good chance of enjoying the mild weather.
For those hoping to enjoy swimming at the beaches in Southern France, mid-September is the perfect period to visit due to fewer crowds and warm weather. Likewise, the mild September weather also provides a perfect season for those who are planning a wine-tasting tour.
For the shopaholics, however, winter and summer are the best times to visit France. This is because, during that time, many European countries host big sales.
Travelling to France
The fastest and cheapest way to get to France from most parts of the United Kingdom and Ireland is by air. There is usually plenty of choice for flights, all of which take just under two hours to reach France. Flight tickets work on a quota system so it’s wise to book ahead for the cheapest fares.
Enjoy travelling in France
To make your trip fun and enjoyable while travelling with either a baby, family members, a group of friends or a partner, make sure to properly prepare beforehand. If, for example, you are visiting with a baby, pack nappies and baby food and, if possible, a portable feeding table. If you're on a week-long getaway with friends, consider staying in an area with plenty of different activities to accommodate all tastes. For those on a romantic weekend break, Paris can't be beaten. But whoever you're travelling with, the optimal time to spend in France is ten days. That way, you have enough time to explore different regions by train, plane, or even a road trip.
The Voyage Prive’s travel expert opinion on France
A holiday in France can be anything you want. Choose a spa hotel for the ultimate in relaxation or accommodation near the Alps for the adventure holiday of a lifetime. Romance is in the air wherever you go in France, from the beaches of the South coast to the bars of Versaille. Millions of tourists each year soak up the art, architecture and culture visible on every street corner. So why can’t that tourist be you?