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Summer Travel, Adventure, and Community Service Programs for Teenagers

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Browse By Unique Trip Types & Interest...

Summer Teen Tours and Teen Travel Programs. Choose from 2 to 6 weeks of adventure throughout the world including the United States, Canada, Alaska, Hawaii, Europe, Iceland, Australia, New Zealand and Costa Rica!

Community Service + Cultural Exploration

Authentic and meaningful volunteer opportunities abound! Whether you travel with us to Ecuador, Hawaii, California, or Costa Rica, each program is designed to be a rich, fulfilling experience!

For Younger, Local Travelers...

Tour weekdays & spend weekends at home..

The perfect summer for students in the New York/New Jersey Metro area and the Philadelphia/Cherry Hill area completing 6th, 7th and 8th grades! Choose from 2, 3 or 5 weeks of adventure.

European Adventure

28-day tour of iceland, france, switzerland, italy, monaco and spain, itinerary & activities, reykjavik, iceland.

Our European Adventure begins as we jet to Reykjavik, Iceland - the land of the Midnight Sun awaits with almost 24 hours of daily summer sunlight • Make lots of new friends and start bonding with fun Introductions and Ice Breakers at our Orientation • From our hotel, the CenterHotel Midgardur , gaze across Faxafloi Bay and catch a glimpse of the Akrafjall and Esja Mountains • Explore the natural beauty of this Nordic Island Country during our famous Golden Circle Tour • Visit Thingvellier National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and see the Great Geyser erupt • View the Gullfoss Waterfall • Enjoy the world famous Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa where we will soak in the Hot Springs and reap the benefits of the mineral-rich waters • Grab an oar as we shoot the rapids on our White Water Rafting Adventure through Gullfoss Canyon • One of the highlights of our time in Iceland will be our Lava Tube Trek • Get your cameras ready when we put on Headlamps for this exciting and beautiful opportunity to walk through one of nature’s most impressive creations • Experience the sensation of flying on FlyOver Iceland , a ride with state-of-the-art technology where you will hang suspended, feet dangling, over a wrap-around screen with special effects including wind, mist and scents, and unforgettable motion • Our journey continues on our non-stop flight to Paris.

Paris, France

Bienvenue ~ Welcome to Paris • The elegant Millennium Hotel Paris Opera will be our home in “The City of Love” and “The City of Lights” • Take in the panorama of this beautiful city from the top of the Eiffel Tower • Then check out the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo at the Louvre, and appreciate the works of Monet, Van Gogh and Degas at Musée d'Orsay • Have a blast on our Evening Cruise down the River Seine on the Bateaux Mouches • Wander through the bohemian artist village of Montmartre, famous for picturesque Sacré Coeur , perched along the highest point of the city • Hear the chimes and see the beautiful stained glass at Notre Dame and drive along one of the most exciting avenues in the world, the Champs-Elysées , to see the Arc de Triomphe • At the Palace of Versailles , walk through the Hall of Mirrors and roam the vast gardens.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Journey through Switzerland, along the majestic, snow-covered Swiss Alps to the charming and world-famous village of Zermatt , nestled at the foot of the Matterhorn (the most photographed mountain in the world) • The high-alpine village of Zermatt is truly a world of its own, with its awe-inspiring views, world class hotels and delicious cuisine • Our resort, the Hotel Schweizerhof , is nestled amongst beautiful alpine lakes and enchanting ice-blue glaciers • For those of at least strong intermediate ability, enjoy a morning of Professionally Guided Summer Snow Skiing and Snowboarding on the Matterhorn • The entire group will enjoy an Alpine Gondola Ride to experience a breathtaking view of the Matterhorn.

Venice, Italy

Benvenuto ~ Welcome to Italy • Our next four stops in Italy will be unforgettable • Our first stop, Venice, is made up of 118 small islands separated by canals and linked by bridges • The magnificent NH Rio Nova will be our home during our unbelievable stay in Venice • Cross the Bridge of Sighs • Walk through famous Piazza San Marco (St. Mark's Square), visit St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace and enjoy the markets and shops along the Rialto Bridge • At the end of the night, listen to live music and eat delicious Gelatto, Italian ice cream, in St. Mark's Square. • Our visit wouldn't be complete without taking a Moonlit Gondola Ride on Venice's Canals , the number-one tourist attraction in Venice.

Rome, Italy

During our visit to the “Eternal City”, you will be amazed to see how the past and present go side by side in Rome • Step into history when we walk through the Colosseum , the largest amphitheatre of the Roman Empire where gladiators once battled • Next, stroll through the sprawling ruins of the Ancient Roman Forum, the center of Roman commerce during ancient times • See Circus Maximus, an ancient Roman chariot racing stadium, and step inside the Pantheon • Walk down the Spanish Steps and toss coins over your shoulder into the Trevi Fountain (legend promises if you throw a coin in the fountain, you will return to Rome) • Spend the evening in charming Piazza Navonna, where we'll dine a / fresco under the stars and then finish our evening with delicious ice cream Tartufo or Gelatto • Take a guided tour of St. Peter's Basillica in Vatican City and marvel at Michelangelo's artwork on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel .

Sorrento & Capri, Italy

Check out the view as we drive along the southern shore of the Bay of Naples • Excitement abounds as we take in the views of grottos, cliffs and shimmering bays as we reach Sorrento, our beautiful resort town spread along the terraces that rise above the sea • Step onto our Hydrofoil Boat Ride to the Island of Capri , where we will take a boat ride to the famous Blue Grotto , a natural Sea Cave cast in a brilliant Phosphorescent Blue Light • We will cap off this amazing day by Swimming in the crystal clear seas and soaking up the sun on the Sandy Beaches of Capri • On our way to Florence, we will check out the archeologic ruins of Pompeii , a Roman town frozen in time from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D.

Florence, Italy

Located in Tuscany , the city of Florence is bustling with industry, craft, commerce, culture, art, and science • On our Guided City Tour we'll go to the Galleria dell'Accademia , where we'll marvel at Michelangelo's perfectly sculpted 17-foot-tall-marble "David" • Learn how to make fresh pasta from scratch at our Tuscan Cooking School and then feast on your culinary creation • We'll also see Ghiberti's Bronze Doors , the Duomo , and walk across the colorful Ponte Vechio bridge   • Enjoy delicious Italian Pasta Dinners that will tempt your palate and then savor dessert and the classic ambiance of Florence's Piazzas • As we leave Florence, we'll stop at the Leaning Tower of Pisa – gotta pose for the classic picture and pretend to hold up the tower.

Monte Carlo, Monaco / French Riviera & Carcassonne

Get ready for the glitz and glamour of Monte Carlo, Monaco! Here we will stay in the luxurious, world-famous hotel, the Fairmont Monte Carlo • We'll enjoy a relaxing beach day along the French Riviera and have an amazing afternoon in our resort's stunning pool that overlooks the blue-green waters of the Mediterranean Sea • We'll indulge in fantastic gourmet meals and enjoy exciting evenings in famous Monte Carlo, the international playground of the rich and famous • In the Medieval French Town of Carcassonne , we'll cross the Moat to explore the Fortress Towers , Ramparts and Castle Walls of this unique walled city.

Barcelona, Spain

Bienvenido ~ Welcome to Spain! • Get ready to practice your Spanish language skills during our next three stops in Spain • Facing the Mediterranean Sea , this host city of the 1992 Olympics, is a vibrant and ever-changing metropolis known for its unique architecture and vibe, including stone forests, colorful dragons and balconies with eyes • Check out the super eccentric and bizarre Salvador Dalí Museum in Figueres , guaranteed to be the strangest museum you'll ever visit • Explore La Rambla, Barcelona's most vibrant avenue with inviting shops, food markets, and unique performers • Hang out in Park Güell and be mesmerized by Antoni Gaudí's magical and colorful stone structures and then walk around La Sagrada Familia to see Gaudi's incomplete masterpiece basilica • Enjoy a delicious and traditional Paella Dinner followed by an authentic Flamenco Dance Show.

Costa Dorada, Spain

As our tour is coming to a close, relax, reminisce and make new memories with your friends at our incredible Costa Dorada beach stop • Savor the tranquility of white sandy pools, surrounded by palm trees and exotic gardens at our gorgeous Caribbean-inspired resort, Hotel Caribe • Swim and play on our resort's sun drenched white sand beaches of the Spanish Riviera, along the Mediterranean Sea • In the evening, at Port Aventura , Spain's largest theme park, we'll enjoy magical rides, exciting shows and conquer the tallest and fastest roller coasters in Europe • Enjoy Port Aventura's latest addition to their theme park, Ferrari Land . Here, you will feel the power of a Ferrari engine as you blast 180 vertical feet into the air on the Bounce-back Tower and blast out of an F1 Pit Stop and accelerate 111 miles per hour in just 5 seconds on the Vertical Accelerator .

Madrid, Spain

Our teen tour through Europe comes to an end in Madrid, Spain's capital and largest city • Walk along the vast grounds of Palacio Real , the Royal Palace of Madrid • Race your friends to the bottom of the hill at our Indoor Snow-Tubing Park • Feel the excitement of the International Fútbol scene when we tour the locker room, tunnel, dugouts, and pitch of Bernabeú Stadium , home of Real Madrid • See the famous works of Velázquez and Goya at the Prado Museum , which houses the best collection of Spanish art in the world • Prepare fun skits and songs for our emotional Last Night Celebration at our hotel, where we'll spend our final night together, reliving the great memories of our trip of a lifetime on Rein Teen Tours! Fly home with your new friends and unbelievable memories of Europe.

France Tours & Vacations

There’s a reason France is the most visited country in the world. Actually, there are several.

The Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. The Pyrenees and Chamonix. Escargot and ratatouille. Champagne and croissants and berets and baguettes. Napoleon and Simone de Beauvoir and the Hunchback of Notre Dame. Jazz bars and vineyards and lavender fields as far as the eye can see. ‘Un petit peu’ of this, ‘un petit peu’ of that. A balmy evening on the French Riviera, a morning frost on the fields of the Somme. French flags flying after the FIFA World Cup. Guillotines falling after the French Revolution. Chanel and Chandon and Versailles and Vuitton. Forget the museums; this country is a work of art.

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Cycle the Loire Valley

Cycle Provence

Mont Blanc Highlights

Articles of France

France at a glance, capital city.

Paris (population approximately 2.1 million)

Approximately 67 million

(GMT+01:00) Brussels, Copenhagen, Madrid, Paris

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type E (French 2-pin, female earth)

Learn more about France

Culture and customs.

What makes the French so, well, French? Is it the food? The wine? How about the art, the philosophy, the history, or the fierce passion often caricatured as arrogance? Whatever it is, it’s seduced Francophiles around the world for countless years and there’s no sign of it slowing down.

The French are lovers of life. They celebrate the ‘joie de vivre’, or joy of living, in every aspect of their day. Conversation should be meaningful; food should be rich and sumptuous; music should move you; art should change you.

Sure, there are the stereotypes of the French being rude, but you could be forgiven for your reluctance to speak English when you’re the most-visited country in the world. There are, after all, only so many times one can give directions to the Eiffel Tower. But sit down for dinner at a French person’s house and you’ll discover the opposite. France is a very liberal country and every topic is up for debate – dinner is just an entrée for the conversation.

Much of France’s reputation rests on romanticized images of Paris. Sitting at a cafe on the Ile-St-Louis with a piping-hot croissant and cafe au lait, for example, or watching sunset from the steps of Sacre Coeur. But travel through France and you’ll find an incredibly diverse and multicultural country that changes so much between regions, from Marseille’s cultural melting pot to Biarritz’s surfers to the hardy mountain folk of the Pyrenees and Alps. 

Every region and valley, every coastline and ridgeline and three-hour line for the Louvre, will offer up something different. But remember, there’s one thing that doesn’t change no matter where you go: the unwavering belief that there’s nothing better than being French.

History and government

After the conquest of the Gauls and the fall of Rome, the area we know as France was dominated by a tribe known as the Franks. They were headed up by a brutal man named Charlemagne, whose mission was to convert all of   Europe  to Christianity. After Charlemagne’s death his empire was split into three, with West Francia corresponding to the modern territory of France.

The Hundred Years’ War

West Francia, which was really a patchwork of territories run by the dukes, had institutional power more or less centralized in the 12th century. As time went on the tension between France and England grew until the outbreak of the Hundred Years’ War, which actually lasted 116 years. Though France’s population was decimated during this period, thanks to both war and plague, it was also a formative time for the country’s national identity.

One of the key figures to come out of this long period of fighting was Joan of Arc, who is still a national hero in France. She was born in 1412, just after the Battle of Agincourt, during which the French were dominated by the English. As a young girl she heard the voices and saw visions of multiple saints, all of whom told her to go fight for Charles, the rightful king of France. At the age of 16 she traveled to his court to convince him of her mission and somehow did exactly that. She turned the tide of the war and in doing so was captured by the English and sentenced to death as a witch. Her ashes were scattered in the River Seine, but her story was never forgotten.

The French Revolution

Bad harvests, taxation, abject poverty and an unrestrained aristocracy sowed the seeds of the French Revolution in the 18th century. The Renaissance began in   Italy   and spread across Europe, ushering in the Age of Enlightenment, which spread the ideas of individual liberty, tolerance and the separation of church and state. In France, King Louis XVI had inherited a country in dire trouble but was still living it up at the Palace of Versailles. The peasants revolted and stormed the Bastille Prison – hence the national celebration of Bastille Day – and King Louis, along with Marie Antoinette, his queen, were captured and executed by guillotine. A decade of chaos ensued.

It was Napoleon, a military general, that took control of France following the revolution and established the Napoleonic Code, which has become the foundation for the development of most modern democracies. He embarked on military campaigns throughout Europe and was eventually defeated and exiled by the combined forces of   Russia   and Prussia, a northern state that would rise to power as a united Germany during the 19th and 20th centuries.

The World Wars

The 20th century was a horrific time for France with   Germany   invading the country twice. France suffered huge casualties during both WWI and WW2, and by 1945 it was on its knees. Further conflicts followed in colonial territories across Africa and Asia, which led to an influx of migration to France. In Europe, governments were dealing with the fallout from WWII and making agreements to avoid another conflict, from which the European Union was born.

France is now a leading power both in Europe and globally after a huge post-war effort to rebuild the country. It has the third-largest economy in the EU and is one of the most modern countries in the world, continuing to value liberty, fraternity and equality. Recent years have seen issues arise with the Islamic extremism and the European refugee crisis, but the country continues to grow and remains a thriving destination for tourism.

Eating and drinking

The gastronomic pleasures of France are world-renowned, so travellers won’t be worried about going hungry. There’s something to suit every budget here, from Michelin-star restaurants to market stalls and everything in between, and it’s not just frog legs and snails that are on the menu.

There’s simply no better buy than a fresh, crusty baguette. Buy one for less than a euro from the nearest bakery and take it down to the nearest park or river. Apply butter liberally, fill with whatever you like and bite into France – c’est magnifique!

Pastries, cakes and tarts

French chefs set the global quality benchmark for pastries so there’s no feeling guilty when you sample the croissants, eclairs, crepes, macaroons and whatever else you can get your hands on. Find them at your local patisserie and don’t forget to say merci (or mercy, depending on how many you eat).

If you’re going to indulge in a little wine, there’s no better place than France. It is, after all, home to some of the most famous wine regions in the world: Bordeaux, Burgundy, the Loire, Provence, Champagne. Whether you’re at the cellar door or on the restaurant floor (please, drink responsibly), there’s tasty tipple with your name on it.

When in France, right? From soft cheeses like brie and camembert to a hard, sharp Beaufort, it’s all on offer in France’s bountiful cheese shops and markets.

Beef Bourguignon

This beefy stew originates in Burgundy and is an example of a peasant dish now considered high-end cuisine. It’s prepared with beef braised in red wine and broth, flavoured with garlic, onions and mushrooms, and it’s absolutely perfect on a winter’s evening.

Geography and environment

Bordered by Spain,   Andorra , Luxembourg, Monaco, Switzerland, Italy, Germany and Belgium, France’s geography is as varied as its neighbors.  

In the south, the Pyrenees form a natural border with a   Spain . This mountain range rises over 11,100 feet (3400 meters) and stretches from the west coast to the east. It’s a hiker’s paradise in summer, with thousands of miles of hiking trails, and a haven for snow sports in the winter thanks to a huge number of ski resorts.

To the south-east, France borders the Mediterranean Sea all the way up to the Italian border. A large stretch of this area is what’s known as the French Riviera, which has long been a popular tourist destination thanks to its warm weather, calm water and golden beaches.

Continue north along the Italian border and you’ll reach the French Alps, France’s other predominant mountain range. The Alps are home to Mont Blanc – France’s highest point – and form another natural border, this time with both Italy and Switzerland.

France’s central region is mostly rolling hills and fields, perfect for farming and producing wine. There are two main rivers, the Loire and the Rhone, with the Rhone running south from   Switzerland   through to the Mediterranean and the Loire running north and west to the Atlantic.

The west coast is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and sees a cooler climate than the east. The large Atlantic swells have brought surfers to the area for years with several international surfing competitions being held throughout the year.

Northern France, which is bordered by   Belgium , Luxembourg and Germany, remains relatively flat with grasslands, fields, forests and, of course, the capital of Paris. These northern areas suffered most during the wars, both because of their proximity to Germany and the landscape itself. This is where trench warfare was first employed, only possible because of the huge swathes of flat land.

Chanel. Louis Vuitton. Dior. Lacroix. Hermes. You want luxury? You got it. Paris has long been considered the fashion capital of the world and if that’s your bag, well, you’ll need some room in your bag after a stroll down the famous Champs-Elysees. France isn’t all high fashion though. Yes, the French are notoriously fashionable, but there’s plenty of shopping to be done for those that aren’t quite ready to step out on the catwalk.

Remember, it's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. The United States and Canada generally have strict customs laws.

And you thought Paris was just about fashion? It also happens to be the fragrance capital of the world. There’s no better place to pick up a sensational scent than in one of the city’s many perfumeries, some of which have been trading for more than a century. It’s the perfect gift – or a subtle suggestion – for your friends and family back home.

Flea Markets

Parisian flea markets are a top spot to pick up a vintage bargain. From jewelry and purses to paintings and old-school electronics, you’re bound to find something unique or, at the very least, enjoy trying. Make Porte de Vanves and Porte de Saint-Ouen in Paris your first stops.

Village Markets

Regional French markets just ooze with charm and can be found all over the country. Peruse fresh produce, home-made jams, pickled vegetables, rich cheeses and summer flowers, or just soak up the provincial atmosphere and try your hand at having a chat with one of the locals.

France has been at the forefront of winemaking forever and there are plenty of high quality wines to be found at very decent prices. Just remember that French wines are named for their geographic origin rather than the grape. Take a Burgundy, for example: if it’s red it’s pinot noir, if it’s white it’s chardonnay. Do some research and reap the rewards.

Festivals and events

There are festivals happening all over France throughout the year. Whether you’re in the city or a small town, you can expect a lot of food, some phenomenal wine and plenty of music.

Bastille Day

The French National Day is celebrated on July 14 and commemorates the storming of the Bastille Prison during the French Revolution. It’s celebrated all over the country, but Paris is the place to be, with the city hosting parades, fireworks and the famous Firemen’s Balls, where the main station in each Parisian district throws open its doors for a huge ball lasting until 4 am. It’s a tradition that’s been happening for over 100 years.

Avignon Festival

Performers and art lovers from around the world descend on Avignon for this three-week celebration of performance art. Dance, theatre, comedy and musical performances feature on the bill, with everything from open-air classical concerts and sweeping operatic epics to spoken word poetry.

Tour de France

This is the world’s most iconic cycling competition. It lasts three weeks and was first held in 1903. Things are a little more high-tech now—back then, the cyclists didn’t have support vehicles, and they carried baguettes, wine and cheese for sustenance. They also had some phenomenal mustaches.

Nice Jazz Fest

The Nice Jazz Festival dates back to 1948 and is one of the oldest jazz festivals in   Europe . The first headliner was Louis Armstrong, and since then, a glut of phenomenal musicians have performed, including Herbie Hancock, Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald and Erykah Badu.

Roland Garros

Also known as the French Open, Roland Garros is one of tennis’s grand slams and the premier clay-court competition in the world. The biggest tennis stars in the world converge on the courts to slug it out, but Rafael Nadal will forever be the king.

Public holidays that may impact travel include:

Victory Day 1945

Ascension Day

Whit Monday

Assumption Day

All Saint's Day

Armistice Day

Please note that the dates of  France's public holidays  may vary.

Similar destinations

Thinking about a trip to France but still browsing other destinations? Check out tours to neighboring locations:

• Switzerland

Or maybe you need help comparing countries? Check out our blog:

• France or Italy?

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your France adventure, check out these books:

• The Three Musketeers   – Alexandre Dumas
• Chocolat   – Joanne Harris
• The Hunchback of Notre-Dame   ­– Victor Hugo
• Dangerous Liaisons   – Pierre Choderlos de Laclos
• Suite Francaise   – Irene Nemirovsky
• A Year in Provence   – Peter Mayle
• How to be Parisian Wherever You Are: Love, Style and Bad Habits   – Caroline de Maigret, Anne Berest, Sophie Mas, Audrey Diwan
• The House in France: A Memoir   – Gully Wells
• Marie Antoinette: The Journey –   Antonia Fraser
• Les Miserables   – Victor Hugo
• Me Talk Pretty One Day   – David Sedaris

France travel FAQs

When is the best time to visit france.

The best time to visit France depends on where you are planning to travel to.

The best time to visit Paris, in terms of sunshine and weather, is early summer and early autumn as the late summer can get quite hot. That said, the winter months are a dark albeit beautiful time to visit, like many European cities. The same applies for most of inland France.

If you’re heading to the east coast and the Mediterranean Sea, the best months are July and August as the sea breeze tends to keep the coast a little cooler than inland. There will, however, be more tourists than in the early summer or spring and autumn.

The mountains are best for skiing in February and March as the days are longer than in December and January, while the late spring, summer and early autumn are perfect for hiking.

The Atlantic areas of Brittany and Normandy are best experienced from June through August as they can get quite wet and cold outside of summer.

Is it safe to visit France?

Yes, it is still safe to visit France, though parts of the country have been affected by various issues of late.

Over the past 5–10 years France has been targeted by extremist groups. These attacks have received widespread global coverage and while they are shocking and saddening, they are also very infrequent. France is at no more risk of extremist violence than any other Western country, but travelers should exercise caution nevertheless and keep up-to-date with local news sources.

Much has also been made of the Yellow Vests Movement, which has spread around the country. These protests began in 2018 after an increase in fuel taxes and have morphed into a movement demanding economic reform and the resignation of President Emmanuel Macron. Though the protests have turned violent on several occasions, particularly in Paris, they are also easily avoided. The protests occur on Saturdays and the streets are shut down by police – travelers should check local news sources and avoid any trouble areas on Saturdays.

Do I need a visa to travel to France?

France is a member of the Schengen Convention, which means that if you travel to an EU member country or countries, like France, for a total of less than 90 days, a visa is not required. Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the US, the UK and other member countries of the EU and Schengen area are included under this arrangement.

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your country of origin. Check the Essential Trip Information section of your tour itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in France?

Most restaurants in France will include a service fee within the bill; however, tipping extra (while not absolutely necessary) is customary and will be appreciated by wait staff. Usually rounding up the bill or leaving spare change is sufficient. Feel free to tip more if the service has been exemplary or if you’re feeling generous.

What is the internet access like in France?

The internet access is great in France. All cities and major towns should have internet cafes and wi-fi hotspots, while most of the country aside from very remote areas will have phone reception should you wish to use your mobile/cell phone.

Can I use my cell phone while in France?

Travelers can use their phones throughout France, though remote and isolated areas in the Pyrenees or Alps may have limited service.

You’re able to purchase a local SIM on arriving in France, which will generally be cheaper than using international roaming. If you do wish to use international roaming, ensure it’s activated before leaving your home country and ask your provider what charges apply. Data use can be particularly expensive while overseas.

What are the toilets like in France?

Flushable, Western-style toilets are the standard across France.

Can I drink the water in France?

Drinking water from taps is considered safe in France unless otherwise marked. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottle water and fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead.

Are credit cards widely accepted in France?

Major credit cards are widely accepted across France. Some smaller cafes and shops may not accept credit cards, especially in more rural areas, so be sure to carry enough cash to cover small purchases.

What is ATM access like in France?

ATMs are common across France in both cities and towns so there shouldn't be a problem finding one.

What is the weather like in France?

France’s weather varies depending where you are.

Paris tends to be quite cool with temperatures averaging 59–77°F (15–25°C) even in the height of summer. The winter average is 36–45°F (2–7°C), though it’s worth keeping in mind that the city can experience more extreme heat in the summer or snow in the winter.

The French Riviera, including Nice, has a sunnier climate and averages 68–81°F (20–27°C) in the summer and 41–55°F (5–13°C) in winter. This area is quite sheltered compared to the rest of the south-east coast, which will much hotter and dryer in the summer.

The mountainous regions, like Chamonix in the Alps, will vary depending on altitude. Chamonix experiences an average temperature of 48–75°F (9–24°C) in the summertime and 19–37°F (-7–3°C) in the winter. The summer also sees afternoon thunderstorms and more precipitation than other times of year.

The climate on the Atlantic coast tends to be quite cool and wet, with rain and wind all year round, particularly around the English Channel. Bordeaux, which is much further south, enjoys a warmer climate though it’s prone to both the cold Atlantic fronts as well as cold winds from the north-east. Its average temperature in summer is 61–81°F (16–27°C), while winter averages 37–50°F (3–10°C).

Is France safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

France is a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers and has always been celebrated for its liberal attitudes towards sexuality. Paris was the first European capital to vote in an openly gay mayor in 2001 and France was the first country in the world, back in 1791, to decriminalize same-sex sexual acts between consenting adults. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2013 and attitudes towards LGBTQIA+ identifying people are generally positive across the country.

Paris has had a thriving queer scene for years which revolves around Le Marais, a district just north of Notre-Dame, though the city is so open that it can be difficult to pin down its epicenter. Active queer scenes can be found in most major cities across the country including Bordeaux and Lyon.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

Is France accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

France is a relatively accessible destination for travelers with disabilities, particularly for those visiting Paris. All buses and trams in the Paris metro area are equipped for wheelchairs and most, though not all, metro stations have been equipped to make traveling with a disability as hassle-free as possible. The city’s official visitor website has a section dedicated to   visiting Paris with a disability   in both French and English.

Elsewhere, as in much of Europe, travelers may find that the older city buildings and infrastructure in smaller towns may present them with some difficulty, depending on their disability. If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made.

As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What to wear in France

France is a very liberal country and travelers should not feel compelled to dress particularly conservatively unless visiting a religious site. After all, Paris is the fashion capital of the world – go hard or go home. That being said, Intrepid encourages all travelers to respect the locals in the places we visit. If they wouldn’t wear something, we don’t suggest that you do. 

Remember that the weather in the mountains can change extremely quickly, even in summer, so your best bet is dress in layers. If you do plan on visiting the Alps or Pyrenees, be sure to take a raincoat, sturdy walking shoes and a wind breaker or warm jacket.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip to France support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to France directly support our French partner Fonds de Dotation. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Fonds de Dotation

Fonds de Dotation are on a mission to create inclusive work opportunities and lessen stigmas for people with disabilties in France. Donations help them power their two inclusive restaurants in France and spread awareness about the importance of inclusive work environments and opportunities.

Learn more or make a donation

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The best France tour packages

What people love about france tours, most popular destinations in france, travel france your way, top operators in france, best places to start your france tour, discover france tours for every budget.

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Top France travel itineraries to fit your plans

France tours for everyone, best time to visit france, contact our france travel experts.

Compiled by

Steff France travel expert at TourRadar

Highlights of France (13 Days)

“The tour was very fast paced, but definitely worth it. Had such a great time.” Stephanie, traveled in May 2019

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus
• Marvel at world famous Pasisian sights
• Discover France's Roman history and medieval towns
• Explore world renowned wine regions

Paris and Versailles

“The tour was excellent. I was kept informed at every step, the hotel was nice and everything scheduled went off without a hitch.” Shirley, traveled in September 2022

• Christmas & New Year
• Explore the Louvre with an audio guide
• Enjoy a panoramic bus tour of Paris
• Cruise the Seine with views of landmarks

Best of France Tour

“Extraordinary sights and very good accommodation made for an excellent experience.” Dr, traveled in October 2023

• Explore Paris with a panoramic bus tour
• Cruise along the Seine and visit the Eiffel Tower
• Tour medieval Rouen and the Beaches of Normandy

French Dream (12 destinations)

“His English was great, he impressed and enforced the limitations of time at each attraction.” Hauthia, traveled in June 2024

• Sightseeing
• Explore the stunning Château de Villandry gardens
• Visit Leonardo da Vinci's last home at Clos Lucé
• Tour the prehistoric Lascaux cave replicas

Dreaming of France of Alsace

“The hotels were all very comfortable and nice!” Wendy, traveled in June 2024

• Explore the old town of Tours
• Visit Bordeaux's UNESCO-listed center
• See Carrières de Lumières in Les Baux

Fabulous tour. Amazing tour guide Giovanni made it so easy and fun. Loved the whole tour and would defiantly recommend this tour.

It was a really good experience. This is my second trip with Eskapas. The first one was a small group tour fully escorted in Italy and it was wonderful. This trip is independent and you are joining at the meeting point to daily group ours. If you have send of orientation, it may be difficult so I recommend yo to take a taxi to reach out to the meeting points. Usually it costs 15-20Euro. The company upgraded our hotel to New Hotel Le Voltaire 4* ,, located in 11th Arrondissement, close to Bastille. It is a correct one, decent breakfast. Don't miss Cimetiere du Pere-Lachaise which is close proximity.

Brilliant tour guide Leila and amazing driver Brein, together with extraordinary sights and very good accommodation, made for an excellent experience on the 3 day bus tour. I also appreciated the priority entry for all the visits included.

Northern France

Climb the Eiffel Tower for sweeping views of romantic Paris, tour a marvelous château, admire Romanesque and Gothic architecture in Rouen, and explore the poignant beaches of Normandy. A trip through the north of France promises a memorable experience.

Southern France

Stroll through the lavender fields of Provence, savor some of the world's finest wines in Bordeaux, and explore the medieval city of Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Don't forget to hit the glamorous beaches of Cannes, Nice, and Saint-Tropez!

From blooming strolling through lavender fields to exploring ancient architectural masterpieces like the Roman Amphitheatre in Arles to relaxing in cozy towns and sampling fine wines, Provence offers something for everyone.

Begin your voyage in the heart of France, marveling at the Eiffel Tower. Explore the stunning gardens and the house where Monet created his masterpieces in Giverny and visit the stunning Jumieges Abbey and revel in the lush landscapes of Normandy.

More exciting destinations:

Find the perfect tour for your family, catering to all ages with over 652 family tours available in France.

Fully Guided

Select from our extensive range of 649 fully guided tours to enjoy a worry-free experience through France with our expert guides leading the way.

River Cruise

See France from a unique perspective with one of our top-rated river cruise tours, brought to you by internationally acclaimed cruise companies. Experience iconic cities like Paris, the castle-dotted natural Loire Valley, and heavenly food and wine.

Self-Guided

Go off the beaten track with a self guided adventure of France. Travel and experience the freedom of creating a holiday on your own terms. With 103 tours lasting from 4 days up to 16 days, fulfil your wanderlust and set off on your own adventure!

More travel styles:

"There are many things that we loved about this tour, many things people complained about on our tour that weren’t necessarily problems and many things that were sorely lacking in the program that we'd love to see improved for future tours: Things we loved: 1. They had some of the most incredible gems to stop at in between the larger cities. Caceres and Zaragoza are amazing and every stop provided a new experience with so many beautiful sights 2. Balance between "group" and "individual" - I loved that we were supported by the guides or group members for part of the day and then parts of the day were left to us individually so it still felt like our own trip and I wasn't dragged around to restaurants I didn't want to eat in or sights I wasn't interested in 3. Ignacio- I had to add this as a specific love because the guide in the Barcelona- Zurich leg was amazing. He was so confidant and calm in his leadership, was always warm and went the extra mile to help travelers. Things we heard travelers complain about but weren't a "problem" per se 1. Changing guides/tour divided into legs - if you are looking for the standard actor guide who entertains you with a dramatic flair, a tour group that sticks together all day for everything and a "family" that you grow close to over the two weeks, this isn't for you. The guides are not actors and they vary in quality. They are all native Spanish speakers, and their English fluency varies (tour group from Spain- you should expect this). Some were only okay in English and because I know Spanish, I could tell they were giving information in Spanish that they weren’t giving in English. 2.The pacing- is described in the itinerary including how long you spend in the cities (never more, can be less) and how many kms you travel each day. It isn't a leisurely pace and if you go into it expecting that, you are only deceiving yourself. 3. Free time - you are paying for the bus, guides and hotels. That's mostly it and the price reflects this. The itinerary clearly indicates what you pay for and when your free time is. You don't get a ton of tickets to things or personal tours of certain tourist areas. You get a very general, two hour bus tour of the bigger cities. Excursions and entrance into tourist attractions are extra in the optional excursions or for you to arrange on your own. I'll explain how this gets complicated in my next list. 4. Hotels- if you’re a budget traveler, these are the hotels you know well and you should expect this. They’re the Super 8 or sometimes even the Holiday Inn level. Most of them are fine - clean, have everything you need. Not fancy. Things we didn’t like about the tour 1. The crowds/group tours- Europamundo puts 100s of travelers on most legs of this trip. They get away with this because the tour you’re specifically travelling on says they only have a max of 75, but there are several different tours going on at the same time, in the same city from Europamundo. You get mixed with them on buses, in the hotels and at the tourist areas. We “fought for our resources” the whole way through this trip- fighting crowds for breakfast, spots on the elevator for luggage, seats on buses, spots in queues to get to the bathrooms or food. 100s of people let off in the same rest areas, same central squares, staying in the same hotels or going on the same tour was what made this tour much less enjoyable for us. It is this reason alone that we would probably never do a bus tour again. This has nothing to do with the high tourist season either. This wasn’t the busy season and guides said that. The problem is that too many tour groups stuff way too many people into the same small spaces at the exact same time and expect them to just deal with it. 2. Chaotic daily schedule – I said earlier that they did a good job of demonstrating the overall pacing in the itinerary and that is true. It was the minor details that they tended not include and wouldn’t even reveal until the last possible moment that can cause stress. If I don’t know when or where we’re being dropped off or picked up, I can’t book tickets or plan anything for myself for the 8 hours I have free in Lisbon, for example. If I do book my own excursion somewhere, I risk my booking being far out of the way, missing the transfer to my hotel or missing my booked activity because we didn’t get dropped off in time. We wanted to book restaurants but we couldn’t in the last two legs because they were much more chaotic than the first. We had a hard time trying to work around them and spent more time just sticking near a meeting spot to kill time because it was to busy and crowded to try to get in anywhere last minute. If we could’ve booked things ahead or known more information, we could’ve planned better

Europamundo is an expert in:

"Tour guide, Steve and driver Eduardo were fantastic. Would 200% recommend them

Costsaver is an expert in:

"Our guide was amazing. The foods was very good. The views were spectacular The hike was more challenging than I expected but I was able to adjust. It would be nice if there were daily elevation gain and loss on the itinerary. Sleeping with a group of six or more strangers was a challenge. There were people in my room that were very ill. I started feeling ill my last day. I came home and was very sick for days after the trip.

G Adventures is an expert in:

• Hiking & Trekking

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• Itineraries between 3 days and 16 days
• Starting from €93 per day

TourRadar recommends visiting:

Lyon, Arles, Avignon, Viviers, Tain-l’Hermitage, Vienne, Collonges

Paris, Blois, Tours, Villandry, Amboise, Chenonceaux, Chambord, Limoges, Sarlat-La-Caneda, Beynac, Rocamadour, Padirac, Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux, Lourdes, Carcassonne, Narbonne, Marseille, Arles, Avignon

Paris, Rouen, Honfleur, Caen, Bayeux, Mont Saint-Michel, Angers, Amboise, Poitiers, La Rochelle, Bordeaux, Dordogne Region, Rocamadour, Toulouse, Carcassonne, Nimes, Avignon, Arles, Aix-En-Provence, Grasse

Discover unforgettable adventures designed for all ages! Whether you're young or young at heart, these tours offer excitement and wonder for everyone.

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