5 reasons to visit France
With its spectacular rural scenery, delectable food, and world-class wines, it's no surprise France is such a well-loved holiday destination. The country's diverse landscapes, from the winding Rhone to the rocky shores of Corsica, make it an unrivalled holiday destination, with so many reasons to keep returning year after year.
Much like neighbouring Italy, it's a great holiday spot for anyone looking for a quintessential European holiday. You'll find plenty of beautiful places to visit, whether you're looking for an adventure or to simply relax.
There are cities jam-packed with culture, like Paris whose museums and galleries need no introduction. Venture into the countryside and you'll discover enchanting provincial towns with cobbled streets lined with historic buildings, dramatic valleys and peaceful vineyards in the grounds of majestic chateaux. Discover the beauty of the Alps, with a rail journey to remember. Don't forget the glitz and glamour of the Mediterranean - the Cote d'Azur attracts visitors from all over the world who want a spot of sun.
Our collection of exclusive trips to some of the prettiest locations in France will show you the best that the country has to offer. Some of these delightful getaways allow you to soak up the wonders of France in the company of some expert celebrity guests, who'll host unique events along the way.
In case you're not already persuaded, here are five reasons why France is always high on our list of dream destinations.
Discover the fascinating history of World War Two in Normandy and the Channel Islands on this five-night tour. Your trip starts in the Isles of Scilly where you'll enjoy subtropical gardens, sandy beaches; explore the island of St Mary's and stroll through the bustling Hugh Town. You might even spot some wonderful wildlife as you sail around the islands, home to gannets, puffins and dolphins. Discover what life was like for island residents under German occupation on a visit St Peter Port in Guernsey, then head over to Honfleur in northern France's Normandy region to sample local camembert and Calvados, a rich local brandy made from apples and pears.
Anyone looking to book a foodie holiday will certainly consider France, a country famous for its food. From warm, crusty baguettes to hearty Boeuf Bourguignon and fresher-than-fresh seafood, there's so much to discover here for those who love to eat. Bordeaux is the viticulture capital of France, famous for deliciously full-bodied red wine, complemented by mouthwatering dishes rooted in tradition. You can discover this lovely region on a foodie cruise in the company of a renowned chef Raymond Blanc or celebrated chef Tom Kerrdige along the Médoc wine region, with visits to local vineyards, elegant wine estates to sample the finest vintages.
Read our exclusive chat with Raymond Blanc OBE
France has several magnificent rivers running through it. There is, of course, the famous Seine, which runs through Paris and has been the backdrop for many a romantic moment - both real and fictional. The Rhone is another of France's major rivers, and winds through one of the country's greatest wine-growing regions. One of the best ways to explore the beautiful banks of France's rivers is on a river cruise. You can choose to sail the Rhône and Saône rivers or the Garonne and Dordogne in style, so search your next cruise here.
St Tropez, Cannes, Antibes - these are names that conjure images of glistening waters, tree-lined boulevards, and gleaming yachts docked in harbours lined with glamorous cafes. France is home to some of the Mediterranean's most glitzy port towns, where thos seeking a stylish getaway flock to sock in the sun. A cruise is a fantastic way to see the region, taking in both the French and Italian Rivieras, where you'll get to watch mega-yachts.
France is one of the world's most renowned producers of wine, with a history of viniculture stretching back centuries. Here you'll find vineyards who've been bringing Bordeaux, Burgundy and Champagne to our tables for generations. Bordeaux is the wine capital of France, famous for deliciously full-bodied red wine, complemented by fabulous foods rooted in tradition. On a wine tour, you'll visit several vineyards and wine estates, participate in tastings, and learn about winemaking. Visit the Château d'Agassac, a 13th-century castle & 42-hectare vineyard, and soak in the ambience as live musicians perform classical masterpieces.
You'll get to sample fine wines on this tour of the Loire Valley, or join gardening expert Paula McWaters as you stay at the largest château hotel in France, surrounded by the historic Chantilly Forest.
