01904 521 936
Tour Search



Discover culture and charm in France
2027 departures available now - plan ahead to secure your preferred dates

Book now to enjoy our best France tours

ClassicClassic
Rocamadour
2026SepOct
2027AprJunSep
7 days from
£2,599 pp
View Details
ClassicClassic
Carcassonne & the Canal du Midi
4.4 stars(295 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
7 days from
£2,399 pp
View Details
ClassicClassic
Girolata Bay
2026Sep
2027AprMayJunSep
12 days from
£3,599 pp
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Charming Dordogne
2026SepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
7 days from
£1,099 pp
View Details
ClassicClassic
Nice & the Cote d'Azur
4.3 stars(62 reviews)
2026Sep
2027AprMayJunSep
7 days from
£2,199 pp
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Avignon, the Rhône & Provence
4.5 stars(205 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027MayJunAugSepOct
7 days from
£1,699 pp
View Details

France Tours & Holidays

France invites you into a world of timeless romance, natural beauty and exquisite cuisine. Set your sights on rolling hills blanketed by vineyards, azure coastlines and opulent châteaux on escorted tours from the Lakes & Mountains of Northern France to the glistening Côte d'Azur. Explore in style on its high-speed rail network, or enjoy the ambiance of a luxury river cruise on the Rhône, the Dordogne or the Seine.

Experience the best of French culture, history and cuisine on an escorted tour with Great Rail Journeys, backed by 50 years' expertise, award-winning customer service and an expert Tour Manager on hand to take care of your needs. Browse our collection of holidays to France to discover your ideal journey.

Find out more with a free brochure and enjoy weekly travel inspiration and offers in our e-newsletter.

Discover the best of France with Great Rail Journeys

Diverse Destinations

Marvel at the past in the picturesque village of La Roque-Gageac or the preserved medieval city of Carcassonne, surrounded by fortified walls. Uncover the celebrated vineyards of Dordogne, the papal city of Avignon, and world-class cities like Paris and Bordeaux, with all the planning taken care of by the experts.

Mouthwatering Cuisine

Savour a wealth of culinary treasures throughout France, from encountering artisan producers to sipping wine in the renowned Burgundy wine region and tasting the shellfish of Étang de Thau. Each itinerary includes a selection of culinary experiences that capture the nuanced flavours of France's specialities.

Centuries of Culture

With more than 1,000 years of history and influences of both northern Europe and the Mediterranean, France is a haven of art, fashion and culinary traditions. Delve into its many sides in unexpected destinations, such as Grasse, famed as the perfume capital, and iconic cities like the 'City of Love', Paris.

Picturesque Rivers

From the iconic Seine cutting through Paris to the Rhône in the south of France and numerous charming waterways weaving through iconic wine regions, France's scenic rivers offer a gateway to spectacular destinations. Drift through Burgundy, surrounded by vineyards, or past the artistic landscapes that inspired Monet.

28 results matching: France

Filters
Any
Reset
Any
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
ClassicClassic
Carcassonne & the Canal du MidiCarcassonne & the Canal du MidiCarcassonne & the Canal du MidiCarcassonne & the Canal du MidiCarcassonne & the Canal du Midi
4.4 stars(295 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

Embark on an indulgent French holiday based in a riverside hotel in stunning Carcassonne, discovering the myths of hilltop Cathar castles and indulge in the region's renowned flavours. Stroll through Carcassonne's walled fortress on a guided tour of the city's medieval sights and uncover the mysterious history of the four hillside Châteaux de...

View map

7 days from
£2,399 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Avignon, the Rhône & ProvenceAvignon, the Rhône & ProvenceAvignon, the Rhône & ProvenceAvignon, the Rhône & ProvenceAvignon, the Rhône & Provence
4.5 stars(205 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027MayJunAugSepOct

A destination that's inspired artists such as Vincent van Gogh, this beautiful part of France is brimming with history, charm and culture. Explore Provence from the papal city of Avignon and uncover the idyllic villages of L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and Gordes. Take a cruise along the Rhône, discovering how its winding waters have shaped the flavours...

View map

7 days from
£1,699 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Charming DordogneThe Charming DordogneThe Charming DordogneThe Charming DordogneThe Charming Dordogne
2026SepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

Famed for its prehistoric cave drawings, Les Eyzies provides the perfect location from which to explore the beautiful Dordogne, a region renowned for picturesque villages, ancient history and excellent cuisine. Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Dordogne from the honey-hued village of La Roque-Gageac and discover the spectacular cliff-side...

View map

7 days from
£1,099 pp
per person
View Details
River CruiseRiver Cruise
Rhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine Gorge
4.5 stars(293 reviews)
2027MayJunJul

Embark on a scenic river cruise from Switzerland to the Netherlands, uncovering enchanting landscapes throughout your journey. Discover the joys of a luxury Rhine cruise while drifting beside forested valleys and charming riverside villages. Soak up idyllic views of the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge, adorned with stunning castles, forests and...

View map

8 days from
£2,499 pp
per person
View Details
River CruiseRiver Cruise
BaselBaselBaselBaselBasel
4.5 stars(211 reviews)
2027MayJunJul

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Netherlands to Switzerland on a luxury river cruise. Sail through four countries, admiring stunning forested valleys, charming half-timbered towns and historic cities lining the picturesque banks of this incredible river. Marvel at the spectacular scenery of the Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage ...

View map

8 days from
£2,499 pp
per person
View Details
River CruiseRiver Cruise
Ardeche GorgeArdeche GorgeArdeche GorgeArdeche GorgeArdeche Gorge
4.4 stars(183 reviews)
2026Sep
2027AprMayJunJulSepOct

Discover the charm and natural beauty of southern France on this elegant river cruise. Sailing aboard the premium MS Amadeus Provence, you'll uncover the Rhône and Saône rivers, with a unique focus on the region's celebrated food and wine. Indulge in the finest Burgundy wines in Beaune, savour the culinary delights of Lyon and explore Avignon,...

View map

8 days from
£3,099 pp
per person
View Details
River CruiseRiver Cruise
StrasbourgStrasbourgStrasbourgStrasbourgStrasbourg
4.7 stars(68 reviews)
2027MayJunSep

Uncover the treasures of Alscace and Lorraine on this all-inclusive barge cruise, discovering sights that lie off the beaten path, including the historic towns of Saverne and Sarrebourg. Starting in the historic Alsace city of Strasbourg, we sail through ancient waterways on a panoramic boat into picturesque districts, aglow with evening twilight...

View map

7 days from
£2,699 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Girolata BayGirolata BayGirolata BayGirolata BayGirolata Bay
2026Sep
2027AprMayJunSep

Experience the laid-back island lifestyle on a fantastic tour of this 'forgotten corner of Europe'. Explore the glistening coast of unspoilt Corsica, a paradise of old-world French towns and hilltop villages, connected by charming train journeys through spectacular scenery. Indulge in the delicious cuisine of Sardinia, discover beautiful historic...

View map

12 days from
£3,599 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
SionSionSionSionSion
4.4 stars(160 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAugSep

Explore picture-book mountain towns bursting with traditional Swiss and French charm from a base in an idyllic village of Champéry, located in the Chablais Alps overlooking the Dents du Midi. Climb past snow-capped peaks on the elegant Mont Blanc Express to the historic resort of Chamonix, nestled beneath western Europe's highest mountain. Soar...

View map

7 days from
£2,299 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Nice Carnival & the French RivieraNice Carnival & the French RivieraNice Carnival & the French RivieraNice Carnival & the French RivieraNice Carnival & the French Riviera
Save £150pp
4.7 stars(41 reviews)
2027Feb
2028Feb

Experience an unforgettable holiday along the shimmering French Riviera, highlighted by the flamboyant floats, colourful costumes and vibrant atmosphere of the world-famous Nice Carnival. Soak up the excitement of this captivating spectacle and discover the charm of Nice on a guided tour, exploring the historic market square, picturesque...

View map

Save £150pp
6 days from
£1,099 pp £949 pp
per person
View Details
River CruiseRiver Cruise
ParisParisParisParisParis
4.4 stars(76 reviews)
2027AprJunSep

Enjoy eight days of luxury aboard the MS Amadeus Diamond, beginning and ending in the romantic City of Light, Paris. Cruise along the River Seine, where history, art and natural beauty converge to create an inspiring experience. While sailing, discover the peaceful landscapes that inspired some of the world's greatest artists. Wander the...

View map

8 days from
£2,699 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Nice CarnivalNice CarnivalNice CarnivalNice CarnivalNice Carnival
Save £150pp
4.6 stars(44 reviews)
2027Feb

Admire the decorated floats, colourful costumes and spirited atmosphere of the captivating Nice Carnival on this rail holiday to the French Riviera. From reserved grandstand seats, bask in fantastic views of this vibrant extravaganza and explore the shimmering Côte d'Azur. Uncover the charm and history of Nice on a guided tour and watch ...

View map

Save £150pp
7 days from
£1,899 pp £1,749 pp
per person
View Details
Our customers love our France tours
Treasures of Carcassonne
24/Aug
Jane Parker
5 stars
“Wonderful holiday, expertly organised.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Majestic Rhine: Basel to Amsterdam
4/Aug
Caroline
5 stars
“Had a fabulous time. Extremely well looked after and food outstanding
Collected by Trustpilot
Provence & the Elegant Rhône
4/Aug
John
5 stars
“Very good experience.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Romantic Rhine: Amsterdam to Basel
3/Aug
G Jackson
5 stars
“Although the holiday encountered some problems (lack of water in the river) the tour team did a splendid job in making alternative arrangements at very short notice. A fabulous holiday.
Collected by Trustpilot
Classic Swiss Mountains & Mont Blanc Express
3/Aug
K B Sykes
5 stars
“Fabulous trip with fabulous tour guide. Train journeys were plentiful, always on time and well planned. Hotel le White in Champery was excellent with location, food and rooms. Free time was a full 2 days and very enjoyable. Only issue was queueing at the Cailler-Nestle experience BUT it was worthwhile.
Collected by Trustpilot
Impressions of France: Paris, Normandy & the Seine
21/Jul
Mr Jeff Wight
5 stars
“excellent excursions at reasonable pace
Collected by Trustpilot
Waterways of Alsace & Lorraine
16/Jul
J Avery
5 stars
“It was a really good experience and full of interest except for two items. The first day was tiring due to a walking tour and scenic boat excursion following a long day's travel. The Tarte flambe evening in an Alsatian restaurant did not compare well with superior on-board meals.
Collected by Trustpilot
Nice Carnival & The French Riviera
11/Mar
Graham Harrison
5 stars
“Fantastic from strat to fish. Very well organised
Collected by Trustpilot
Discover Avignon, the Rhone & Provence
8/Jul
Ian
4 stars
“Had a good holiday with a pleasant and helpful tour manager. The only issue was the hotel security when someone tried to enter our room at 5:30 in the morning on our last day. I reported to the tour manager but no follow up or response from GRJ .
Collected by Trustpilot

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit France?

France is a year-round destination. Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds, while summer (July-August) is ideal for sunny weather and beaches.

Do I need a visa to visit France from the UK?

British passport holders can visit France for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. However, your passport must be valid for at least three months after your departure date from France.

What’s the easiest way to travel to France from the UK?

The most popular ways to travel are by Eurostar train from London to Paris or by flight to major cities such as Paris, Nice, or Lyon.

Do I need travel insurance for France?

Travel insurance is highly recommended. It can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unexpected events. UK travellers can also use a GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) for emergency healthcare, but it does not replace comprehensive travel insurance.

What currency is used in France?

France uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's useful to carry some cash, especially in rural areas.

Do people in France speak English?

While English is spoken in major tourist areas, learning a few basic French phrases can be helpful, especially in smaller towns and villages.

What are the must-visit destinations in France?

Top destinations include Paris (Eiffel Tower, Louvre), the French Riviera (Nice, Cannes), the Loire Valley (châteaux and vineyards) and Provence (lavender fields).

What’s the tipping culture in France?

Service is usually included in restaurant bills, but leaving small change or rounding up is appreciated. Taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides also welcome small tips.

What should I pack for a trip to France?

Pack according to the season-light clothing for summer, warm layers for winter. Comfortable shoes are a must for sightseeing, and don't forget travel adapters for European sockets.

How many people go on one of your holidays?

Great Rail Journeys is a market leader when it comes to small group tours. We're proud of being pioneers in our approach to group sizes and have become the leading operator for escorted holidays. Our group sizes vary between tours, but are our ranges are usually a good indicator of what to expect.

For our Discoveries range, you'll be in groups with an average of 30-35 travellers and a maximum of 40. If opting for our Classic collection, you'll be in groups with an average of 20-25 travellers and a maximum of 30*. Our Landmark holidays are where you'll find our smallest group sizes, starting from as low as 16 travellers and an average of 22, to a maximum of 30.

*Scandinavian and Worldwide tours are on average 30-35 and a maximum of 40.

Latest articles from our journey blog