Discover Tailor-Made France Vacations

The peak season runs from June to August, when cities hum with life, outdoor cafés overflow, and coastal escapes like the French Riviera are at their most glamorous. Festivals, long sunny days, and vibrant energy make summer irresistible, but it is also the busiest time for iconic spots.

For a more relaxed pace, the shoulder seasons in May and September are ideal. “Early fall is the perfect time to visit,” notes Destination Specialist Lindsay Palmer. “The weather is still great, and the crowds are smaller.” These months bring blooming landscapes, mild temperatures, and an authentic feel as locals return from summer holidays.

Winter (December to February) invites travelers to the French Alps for world-class skiing in resorts like Chamonix, along with cozy retreats in charming mountain villages. Paris also transforms into a wonderland of festive lights and seasonal markets. For more seasonal insights, visit our guide to the best time to visit France.

From Gothic cathedrals and châteaux to Impressionist masterpieces and haute couture, culture here is both timeless and dynamic. “What I love about France is its deep history and how the French truly embrace their motto of liberty, equality, and fraternity,” says Lindsay Palmer.

Beyond the landmarks, traditions thrive in everyday life, from lively village markets and café terraces to spirited debates about politics over a glass of wine. Catholicism still plays an important role, reflected in ornate churches and festivals that shape local rhythms.

Music, fashion, and cuisine define the French identity, making cultural immersion a highlight of any visit. Dive deeper into this fascinating heritage with our guide to French culture and traditions and the art of dining in France.

Each region offers its own specialties, creating a mosaic of flavours that have shaped global gastronomy. Bread, cheese, and wine are cultural staples, while the traditions of haute cuisine and the relaxed atmosphere of casual bistros both remain central to French identity.

Travelers can savor iconic dishes such as croissants, coq au vin, and bouillabaisse, alongside world-class cheeses like Brie, Roquefort, and Camembert. No French journey is complete without sampling its celebrated wines, from Bordeaux reds to Champagne, or enjoying a glass of pastis in the south. To dive deeper into these experiences, explore our guide to France Food and Drink.

High-speed trains whisk you from Paris to Normandy or Provence in a morning or afternoon, while self-driving opens the door to scenic routes and off-the-beaten-path villages. 

“Clients can visit many areas of France easily by train,” says Destination Specialist Michael Keon. “Paris to Bayeux for the D-Day beaches or Paris to Avignon for southern landscapes takes only a few hours.”

When dining, expect meals to be leisurely, as slow dining is part of the culture. Lunch usually runs from noon to 2:00 p.m., and dinner often begins after 7:30 p.m. In restaurants, service is unhurried by design, so relax and savour the experience. Tipping is appreciated but modest—rounding up or leaving five to 10 percent for excellent service is standard.

Public transportation in cities is excellent, but walking remains the best way to discover hidden gems. For more essential advice, see Things to Know Before You Go.