France with iconic experiences, culture, nature and history
France travel guide

France

One of the world’s most versatile travel destinations – a country that combines culture, nature, food and history like few others.

Whether you dream of romantic streets in Paris, sun-soaked beaches along the Riviera and Corsica, vineyards around Bordeaux or mountain adventures in the Alps, France offers something for every traveller.

Here you can enjoy world-famous gastronomy, explore medieval castles and outstanding art, or simply relax with a glass of wine at a pavement café. France has played a central role in European history – from the Middle Ages and the Revolution of 1789 to today’s modern democracy.

With a well-developed transport network and strong regional variety, it is easy to experience a great deal in a short time. From charming villages and lively cities to coastline, mountains and rolling wine landscapes, France is truly a journey for the senses. This guide is designed to help you plan a clearer France itinerary, compare regions and choose destinations that match your interests.

Our featured places

Featured destinations

Discover some of our featured destinations in France – from iconic cities and Riviera favourites to island escapes, wine regions and vibrant harbour towns.

Île-de-France

Paris is France’s most iconic city and a natural starting point for a holiday in France. Between the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre-Dame, Montmartre and the Seine, the capital combines world-class sights with small cafés, markets and elegant neighbourhoods. Paris is ideal for culture, food, shopping and romantic city breaks, and it also works well as a base for day trips to Versailles, Champagne and the Loire Valley.

French Riviera

Nice is one of the best travel bases on the French Riviera, with sea views, beaches, colourful markets and easy access to Monaco, Antibes, Cannes and hill villages above the coast. The Promenade des Anglais, Vieux Nice and museums dedicated to Matisse and Chagall make the city rewarding beyond summer. Nice suits travellers looking for Mediterranean food, sunshine, culture, hotels by the sea and a relaxed South of France atmosphere.

Mediterranean

Corsica is one of France’s most spectacular island destinations, combining clear Mediterranean water, mountain roads, beaches, old citadels and villages with a strong local identity. From Bonifacio and Calvi to Cap Corse and the interior, the island is perfect for road trips, hiking, swimming and scenic coastal stays. Corsica is ideal for travellers who want nature, character, good food and a holiday in France that feels wonderfully different.

Southwest France

Bordeaux is a classic destination for wine lovers, city breaks and elegant holidays in southwest France. The historic centre, the Garonne riverfront, Place de la Bourse and the Cité du Vin give the city strong appeal, while nearby vineyards in Médoc, Saint-Émilion and Pessac-Léognan make day trips easy. Bordeaux is also known for restaurants, shopping, architecture and a relaxed urban rhythm that works well all year.

Occitanie

Toulouse, known as La Ville Rose, is one of southern France’s most characterful cities, with pink brick architecture, lively squares, markets and walks along the Garonne and Canal du Midi. The city offers culture, aviation history, museums, restaurants and a warm Occitan atmosphere. Toulouse is a good base for exploring Albi, Carcassonne, the Pyrenees and the wider southwest, making it a rewarding choice for a varied France holiday.

French Riviera

Cannes is a stylish French Riviera destination known for La Croisette, sandy beaches, the film festival and a glamorous seafront atmosphere, but the city also has a more local side in Le Suquet, the old port and the food markets. Cannes is well placed for boat trips to the Lérins Islands, coastal drives and visits to Antibes, Nice and Saint-Tropez. It suits travellers seeking sun, restaurants, hotels, shopping and Riviera elegance.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Marseille is France’s oldest city and one of the Mediterranean’s most atmospheric harbour destinations. Around the Vieux-Port, Le Panier, Notre-Dame de la Garde and the MuCEM, the city mixes history, seafood, markets and strong local identity. Marseille is also a gateway to the Calanques, beaches, islands and Provence, making it a strong choice for travellers who want culture, coastline, restaurants and a more vibrant side of France.

French Riviera

Saint-Tropez is one of the most famous destinations on the French Riviera, blending marina life, beaches, luxury hotels and Provençal charm. Beyond the yachts and beach clubs, visitors find old lanes, markets, art history, coastal walks and warm evenings around the harbour. Saint-Tropez suits travellers who want sunshine, restaurants, shopping, style and scenic day trips to Ramatuelle, Pampelonne and the villages of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.

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Inspiration

Popular destinations

France is home to some of Europe’s most varied and inspiring destinations – from iconic cities and glamorous Riviera towns to mountain scenery, wine regions and medieval villages full of character.

Whether you dream of art and culture in Paris, beach life in Nice and Cannes, vineyard experiences in Bordeaux or dramatic landscapes in Corsica, there is always a place in France that fits your trip.

France is the kind of country you can return to again and again – and still find something new.

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Food and wine in France Food & wine
Gastronomy

Taste of France

France is one of the world’s great food countries, and every region has its own specialities, ingredients and traditions. You can experience everything from local markets and bakeries to Michelin-starred dining and private tastings.

From oysters on the Atlantic coast and bouillabaisse in Marseille to Burgundy classics, Champagne, cheese boards and elegant tasting menus in Paris, France is a destination for anyone who loves great meals.

Tip: Some of the best food experiences in France are found not only in luxury restaurants, but also in small local places where tradition and quality come first.
Travel inspiration for France Travel tips
Plan your trip

Guides, inspiration and useful tips

Planning a city break, a road trip, a summer stay by the Mediterranean or a longer journey across several regions? Our guides help you discover where to go, what to experience and how to get more from your time in France.

Read our guides
Wine guide to France
Wine guide

Explore France's wine regions

Explore our complete wine guide to France for inspiration on wine trips, regions and tasting experiences in some of the country's most exciting wine areas.

Here you will find both classic names and more local favourites, whether you dream of wine estates, small producers, beautiful villages or long lunches among the vines.

From Bordeaux and Burgundy to Provence, the Rhône, the Loire and Corsica, France offers striking contrasts and endless variety.

Aktiviteter i Frankrike
Active experiences

Activities in France

France offers a wide range of activities all year round – from hiking, cycling and golf to diving, wine tours and ski holidays. It is easy to combine nature, experiences and time away in some of Europe's most varied landscapes.

Whether you dream of green vineyards, Alpine mountains, quiet village roads or Mediterranean coastline with clear water, you will find activities that suit both relaxed days and more active holidays.

Many of these experiences can also be combined with food, culture and local sights, making the journey more than just a single activity. You can hike in national parks by day, visit wineries in the afternoon and end with memorable meals in small French towns and villages.

Below you will find some of the activities for which we have gathered guides, tips and inspiration on Frankrike.no.

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8 recommended articles to read

Here you will find inspiring guides and articles from Frankrike.no – perfect if you want to plan your next trip, discover new experiences, or simply keep dreaming about France and Corsica.