Dreaming of a trip to France? Of course you are!
France welcomes millions of visitors every year to experience the magic and history of the heart of Western Europe.
Spend a week in Paris or head to the sun-drenched vineyards in Bordeaux, since France is a destination that stirs the soul.
Whether you’re planning a romantic honeymoon, a milestone anniversary, or a destination wedding that your guests will never forget, this France travel guide covers the best places in France. The hard part? Knowing where to start!
Why France Belongs on Your Celebration Bucket List
There’s a reason France is the most visited country in the world. Here are just a few:
- World-class cuisine at every price point: From a perfect €1.20 baguette at a neighborhood boulangerie to Michelin-starred tasting menus, France treats food as art.
- Wine country that rivals anywhere on earth: Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, the Loire Valley, Provence. Each region has its own personality, and tasting your way through them is an unforgettable experience.
- Romance built into the scenery: Cobblestone streets, candlelit bistros, Seine river sunsets, and château gardens make France one of the most naturally romantic destinations for couples.
- History and culture at every turn: The Louvre, Notre-Dame (freshly reopened after its restoration), Versailles, medieval villages, and the D-Day beaches only scratch the surface.
- Incredible variety: Beach days on the Côte d’Azur, skiing in the Alps, château-hopping in the Loire Valley, and Christmas markets in Alsace, all in one country.
What are the Best Places to Visit in France?
Paris
Best for those who want: iconic landmarks, world-class art, and the quintessential French experience.
Paris hardly needs an introduction, but it keeps finding ways to surprise. Notre-Dame reopened in December 2024 after its restoration, so you’ll want to visit to see history in person.
The top Paris attractions span centuries of art and history. The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay, and the Palace of Versailles are all essential spots to visit when in Paris. The Sacré-Cœur Basilica is free to enter, with a €7 dome visit for panoramic views of the city.
For couples celebrating a honeymoon or anniversary, Paris is pure magic. A Seine river cruise at sunset, a wine tasting in the Marais, or a candlelit dinner in Saint-Germain-des-Prés – you can turn the corner in Paris and find yourself in romance.
Considering a destination wedding to Paris? Our guide to dreamy destination wedding locations includes some breathtaking French venues.
Bordeaux & French Wine Country
Best for those who want: vineyard tours, gourmet food, and the soul of French wine region culture.
France’s wine regions are destinations in their own right.
Bordeaux is the crown jewel of French wine country. Visit the medieval village of Saint-Émilion for tastings and explore the stone cellars. The best time to visit is September through October during the harvest.
Beyond Bordeaux, here are a few more spots to visit to fill out your wine passport:
- Burgundy draws lovers of Pinot Noir and Chablis (visit May through October).
- The Champagne region around Reims and Épernay offers year-round tastings of the world’s most celebrated sparkling wine.
- The Loire Valley pairs Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc with stunning châteaux.
- Provence combines rosé wine with lavender fields that peak in July.
Pro tip: A wine country trip makes an incredible anniversary or birthday celebration. Rent a car for the freedom to explore smaller domaines and villages at your own pace.
The South of France
Best for those who want: Mediterranean coastline, lavender fields, and effortless beauty.
The Côte d’Azur (French Riviera) stretches from Saint-Tropez to Monaco. Along the way, you’ll find glamorous beach towns and sparkling blue waters.
Nice, Cannes, and Antibes each have their own personality, from artist markets to waterfront promenades. Inland, Provence enchants with its hilltop villages, olive groves, and lavender fields that bloom spectacularly in June and July.
The Loire Valley
Best for those who want: fairy-tale châteaux and a slower pace.
We already mentioned the Loire Valley above, but it’s worth another mention.
This region is home to more than 300 châteaux, from the grand Chambord to the romantic Chenonceau, along the River Cher. It’s perfect for couples or small groups who want to blend history, wine, and French countryside charm into a relaxed French itinerary. Visit April through October for the best weather and full access to gardens and grounds.
Match Your Celebration to the Perfect France Trip
France is remarkably versatile. And with so much to do, filling out your itinerary depends on what you’re celebrating. Here’s a quick guide to matching your trip to your milestone:
- Romantic Paris honeymoon (5–7 nights): Seine river cruise, candlelit dinners in Le Marais, a day at Versailles, wine tasting in Montmartre, and a sunset picnic beneath the Eiffel Tower. Pure romance from start to finish.
- Wine country anniversary (5–7 nights): Two nights in Bordeaux for Saint-Émilion tastings, two nights in Burgundy for Pinot Noir and village charm, and a final night in Champagne for a toast in Épernay. Rent a car and take your time.
- Riviera girls’ trip (4–6 nights): Fly into Nice, spend a day on the beach, explore Antibes’ Old Town, take a day trip to Monaco, and close out with rosé and seafood along the waterfront. Glamorous, fun, and endlessly Instagram-worthy.
- Loire Valley family celebration (4–5 nights): Château-hop through Chambord, Chenonceau, and Amboise. The pace is relaxed, the scenery is fairy-tale perfect, and there’s enough variety to keep every generation engaged, from wine tastings to garden walks to hot air balloon rides over the valley.
No matter which route you choose, a travel registry makes it easy for friends and family to contribute toward the experiences that matter most, from a private wine tasting to a château dinner.
France Awaits
There’s always a reason to make the trip to France and while the classic sights and cities are always worth a visit, there’s so much more to discover beyond the typical tourist destinations. From the glittering Mediterranean coast to charming countryside villages, France offers endless opportunities for unique and unforgettable experiences.
Ready to make it happen? Create a free travel registry to help fund your dream France trip. It’s the best way to bring others into your next dream trip.
You can also book with Celebration.com Travel, where every detail of your French adventure will be handled with care. Fill out our interest form to get started today!