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. Then you've got the mix of tranquil rivers and bustling port towns offering a mixture of experiences, but beautiful scenery either way. Not forgetting the history - roman ruins, medieval castles and of course, the famous beaches of Normandy.
The country's diverse landscapes, from the winding Rhone to the rocky shores of Corsica (just southeast of the mainland), make it an unrivalled holiday destination, with so many reasons to keep travellers returning year after year.
France has a fascinating history and is home to many monuments and battlefields which show the great sacrifices and loss of life during the Second World War, and are testament to the important role France played in the conflict. One important chapter of Second World War history which can be retracted on the Beaches of Northern France is the story of the D-Day landings and the bitter fighting that followed.
Immerse yourself in rural France with its bustling farmers' markets and quaint medieval villages dotted along the picturesque Dordogne River and Carcassonne. Stop to admire the timeless beauty of Beynac Castle and discover the stone-age cave paintings of Lascaux on a guided tour.
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. Visit the famous Farmers' Market at Libourne on this cruise to Bordeaux and the Médoc region.
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 along the rivers of the Garonne and Dordogne in style, so search your next cruise here.
St Tropez, Cannes or 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. 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.
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 - particularly in the Bordeaux and Médoc region.
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.
The shoulder seasons of spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October) are the best times to visit France, when the temperatures are more comfortable and there are fewer crowds. These are the ideal times for sightseeing holidays.
It all depends what your ideal travel experience looks like. Horticulturists will want to visit the lavender and sunflower fields of Provence in June and July when in full bloom. Similarly, the beaches of the French Riviera are best enjoyed during the summer months.
Winter bring colder temperatures but perfect conditions for those seeking alpine adventures.
Stay in a beautiful Chateau hotel in the historic Chantilly Forest and see Monet's spectacular gardens at Giverny in the company of gardening expert, Paula McWaters.
