Destinations in France

Few countries are as geographically close, yet feel as different as the UK and France. From Atlantic surf towns to lavender fields and grand châteaux, it’s a world away – all within a day’s travel. Once you’re there, the scenery changes dramatically from the north to the south of the country. From the rugged cliffs of Normandy, winding rivers of Bordeaux and golden beaches of the Riviera, it’s a country of contrasts and culture.

Spring and autumn bring mild weather and fewer crowds. So it’s the perfect time to go if you’re sightseeing, cycling or wine tasting. Summer suits beaches and camping holidays, while winter transforms France’s Alps into one of Europe’s top skiing destinations.

France at glance:

Flight duration (from London): 1–2 hours
Main airport: Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
Population: 68 mln people
Language: French
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Time zone: CET (UTC +1) / CEST in summer (UTC +2)

Top places to visit in France

Annecy is a picture-perfect medieval city in French Alps. Expect a place where Alpine peaks frame each view and old town streets meet drifting canals. Annecy’s old town was built around the impressive 12th-century castle (Château d’Annecy), once home to the Counts of Geneva. In winter, you couldn’t find a better starting point for ski holidays in France. Ski resorts like Le Grand-Bornand and La Clusaz are under an hour’s drive. But come summer, it’s all about cycling, paddleboarding and alpine hikes. Explore the hills and paths around Lake Annecy, one of Europe’s cleanest and most beautiful lakes. For family holidays in France, you really can’t do better.

The Dordogne is a region famed for its wines. You’ll find full-bodied reds, aromatic whites and prized sweet varieties like Monbazillac from its 1000+ vineyards. As well as the pleasures of wine tasting, you’ll discover the spirit of rural France. Stay in a riverside gîte or campsite (ideal for France fishing holidays), hire bikes and drift between villages and lively markets. Families can canoe, swim or explore the prehistoric caves of Lascaux, as well as historic castles like Beynac-et-Cazenac.

Antibes is a wonderful pick for south of France holidays, offering all the beauty and sophistication of the Côte d’Azur, while still feeling like a working port. The city’s walled medieval old town hides cafés, markets and tiny art galleries, all within easy reach of the sea. Once a Greek trading port, Antibes was later home to artists such as Picasso, who painted the bay from the Château Grimaldi (now a dedicated museum). Follow the Cap d’Antibes coastal path for sweeping Mediterranean views. Antibes captures the Riviera at its most genuine. It’s perfect for France beach holidays, offering a relaxed pace and fantastic food.

If you’re after northern France holidays, Saint-Malo is an increasingly popular choice. Once home to pirates and privateers, today its cobbled streets, 15th-century castle and sandy beaches draw a gentler kind of visitor. Walk the city walls for harbour views, hop on the ferry to Dinard or cross to the Île du Grand Bé at low tide. The tides here can rise and fall by an impressive 13 metres, among the highest in Europe. So make sure to time it right!

Paris, “city of lights” remains truly irresistible. From the first sight of the Eiffel Tower to quiet mornings in neighbourhood cafés, you’ll find romance and adventure in equal measure. Take a stroll along the Seine, browse the Musée d’Orsay, or watch the city light up from Montmartre. Each district has a distinct rhythm. Head to Le Marais for boutiques, Saint-Germain for bookshops, or Canal Saint-Martin for laid-back, creative energy. With Eurostar links into the heart of the city, Paris is perfect for romantic weekends or last-minute holidays in France.