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Custom Private Travel in France

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Dreaming of the luxurious French Riviera? Sipping Champagne in Champagne? A romantic getaway to Paris? Don’t settle for a standard vacation package. We create custom luxury trips for discerning travelers. Whether you prefer a private chauffeur, a self-drive, or the excellent train system, you’ll experience the country exactly how you want to. Immerse yourself in France’s local culture, meet real people, and taste authentic products. Whether you’re coming for a family vacation, to celebrate a honeymoon, to sample Bordeaux’s fine wines, or to explore majestic Corsica, you’ll experience the real France.

French Side Travel is a local family-owned travel agency based in Paris and Aix-en-Provence. We pride ourselves on our extensive hands-on knowledge, a network of fantastic service providers, dedication to customer service, and a keen attention to detail.

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French Side Travel

Unique luxury travel experiences in france.

French Side Travel is a family-owned French DMC specializing in luxury and custom trips to France. We organize tailor-made, original tours throughout all of mainland France and Corsica . We’re based in Aix-en-Provence, and we pride ourselves on our extensive local knowledge, dedication to customer service, and keen attention to detail.

We’re proud to have our own Mark Bonte recognized as a Top Travel Advisor France Specialist for two years in a row on Travel + Leisure’s 2022 A-List . When you come to France with French Side Travel you’ll experience the country through the eyes of award-winning local experts.

You’ll have access to a diverse mix of classic products such as hotels, visits, and meals and authentic experiences like luxury bed and breakfasts and activities with locals. You won’t find our high-end travel packages in travel brochures. Each of our tours is 100% customized for each traveler’s unique needs and preferences.

French Side Travel welcomes inquiries from both travelers and travel agencies. Travelers to France may reach us through our inquiry form. We look forward to working with travel agencies and tour operators and becoming your local DMC for France. We help expand your portfolio of premium and exclusive offerings. Benefit from real local knowledge and on-the-ground travel designers. We provide a 24/7 English-spoken concierge service for your clients.

About Our Founders

Paul and Mark Bonte founded French Side Travel in 2015. A father and son team, travel is our calling. We love to share meaningful travel experiences with visitors to France.

Mark holds a Master’s in International Business from the Paris School of Business. He grew up and worked in Paris before gaining international and multicultural experiences working abroad in London, Cologne, New Delhi, and Sydney for various tourism, event, and hospitality companies. Mark loves culinary journeys, challenging nature while surfing & snowboarding, searching for unique off-the-beaten-path places, and meeting with locals to learn about new cultures.

After traveling the globe, Mark believed that his native France was the most beautiful place in the world he had discovered and decided to share his knowledge with other travelers. In 2020 he was named a Top Travel Advisor by Travel and Leisure .

Paul is a dyed-in-the-wool globetrotter who has traveled to more than 50 countries . Perhaps the most memorable trips were hitchhiking from France to India in the early 1980s and walking the Camino de Santiago from Arles to Santiago de Compostela in 2015. Before founding French Side Travel he enjoyed a 30 year-long journey working for European tour operators. He holds a Master’s Degree in tourism and economy from the Business School of Grenoble and an Executive MBA from the Neoma Business School in Paris.

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Has anyone used a planning service called French Side Travel?

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2 replies to this topic

It depends on whether you want to travel independently or have someone do the organising for you. Some people like the decisions made for them and this is the market for organised tours. If cost is not an issue and you would feel happier having someone else do the planning, then that is your choice. Personally, we like to have control over where we go, where we stay, how long we stay and what we do.

There are plenty of people here who can help with advice and suggestions to make your trip what you want, and it will not cost anything.

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A Perfect Week in Nice with French Side Travel

• April 12, 2014

[Sponsored article] Are you dreaming of a sun-drenched escape to the French Riviera ?  Imagine exploring Nice, the heart of the Côte d’Azur, at your own pace, with a private driver at your disposal. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, delectable cuisine, and endless sunshine with French Side Travel , your expert guide to an unforgettable vacation.

Day 1 – Welcome to Nice! 

After a seamless arrival with our VIP Meet & Greet service and a smooth transfer to your hotel, unwind and indulge in the French Riviera’s sunshine. Take a leisurely stroll along the iconic Promenade des Anglais, soaking in the stunning Mediterranean views, and stretching your legs after your journey. French Side Travel recommends Le Negresco , a landmark hotel boasting a vibrant pink dome and prime beachfront access. Take advantage of their newly opened spa for some much-needed relaxation.

Day 2 – Gastronomic Adventures Await

Nice’s culinary scene is a delicious blend of Italian and French influences. Embark on a mouthwatering food tour with a local guide, where you will sample the city’s vibrant street food and gain an appreciation for the region’s rich gastronomic tapestry. Journey to the heights of Nice, nestled amidst the Bellet vineyards, for a unique wine-tasting experience. Savor exquisite local wines while taking in breathtaking panoramas.

Looking for a full-foodie itinerary? Check out: Culture & Gastronomy in Provence .

Day 3 – Cannes & Antibes: Where Stars Shine

Today’s journey begins with the iconic Boulevard de la Croisette in Cannes, where prestigious hotels line the star-studded resort town. Ascend to Le Suquet, a historic neighborhood offering breathtaking views of Cannes and beyond. Your driver will then take you to Antibes, home to the largest yacht harbor in the Mediterranean – Billionaires’ Quai. On your way, admire the beaches of Juan-les-Pins, where F. Scott Fitzgerald once reveled in the summer sun.

Day 4 – Arts & Culture in Nice

Start your day atop Mont Boron for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Afterward, enjoy a fascinating tour through the picturesque old town. The afternoon presents an opportunity to visit Nice’s esteemed art museums. Choose between the Musée Chagall, the Musée Matisse, or the Musée Masséna, depending on your artistic preferences.

Day 5 – Monaco & Menton

Today your driver will bring you to two captivating destinations: Monaco and Menton. Begin your day in Monaco, a sophisticated city-state where luxury meets coastal beauty. Witness the changing of the guard at the Prince’s Palace, or visit the famed Casino de Monte-Carlo. Embrace the city’s vibrant atmosphere, and explore its museums and iconic landmarks. After lunch, continue along the stunning coastline to Menton, a town bursting with colorful buildings. Breathe in the refreshing scent of lemon trees and explore the town’s enchanting gardens.

Need more Monte-Carlo? Check out: The Monaco Destination Guide .

Day 6 – A Luxurious Day at Sea

Set sail on a private yacht and create memories that will last a lifetime. Choose your ideal destination, from the vibrant shores of Monaco to the enchanting Îles de Lérins, or even the glamorous Saint-Tropez. Explore the French Riviera from a fresh perspective, cruising along breathtaking coastlines and discovering hidden coves.

Day 7 – Farewell, or Bon Voyage to Your Next Adventure!

If it’s time to depart, French Side Travel will ensure a smooth journey back to the airport. However, if a week in Nice isn’t enough, this beautiful city serves as the perfect base for further exploration. Within a three hours trip, you can immerse yourself in the rustic charm of Provence .

This itinerary offers a glimpse into the magic that awaits in Nice. But why stop there? Speak with an experts today and let French Side Travel transform your dream vacation into a reality. Together, you will design a personalized itinerary that captures the essence of Nice and the French Riviera, ensuring memories that will last a lifetime.

Sponsored articles do not belong to the editorial team at Frenchly. They are provided or written at the request of the advertiser, who determines the content.  

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Saint Martin / Sint Maarten is an island with a bit of a split personality. One half, Dutch Sint Maarten, is known for its nightlife, casinos, duty-free shopping and energetic beaches. The other, French Saint Martin, is a prime destination for French cuisine, outdoor markets, and secluded stretches of sand.

This article highlights the best things to do in French Saint Martin, the slightly more relaxed and low-key side. It’s a top Caribbean destination for families , solo travelers, and couples alike, with something to offer any kind of traveler.

The best things to do in St. Martin on the French side allow you to experience French culture with Caribbean flare. Start your day with a croissant that reminds you of Paris, and then spend the morning in the sun at a pristine Caribbean beach. Take in incredible vistas at sunset, then close the evening with a memorable fine dining experience. There’s no even need to think about the financial side of the thing, as travel loans for bad credit can always come to the rescue to ensure your great vacation experience.

Dine in Grand Case

Grand Case is a small fishing village on St. Martin’s French side. It’s easy to reach, with a central location and a free public parking lot. The main street of the village is often referred to as St. Martin’s “ restaurant row ,” with a wide range of excellent eateries.

You can head to Grand Case for a fancy night out, to a high-end French restaurant such as Le Pressoir or Le Cottage. Or bring the kids to the fun courtyard at Blue Martini for delicious burgers. If Caribbean food is what you’re after, Grand Case has several famous lolos, casual BBQ beach shacks to choose from.

Whichever restaurant vibe you choose, start with a rum tasting at La Part des Anges, a tasting room dedicated to showcasing Caribbean rum.

Relax on Grand Case Beach

Grand Case may be known for its dining, but it also sits right on a beautiful, gently sloping beach. You could easily spend the afternoon at the beach, and then migrate to restaurant row for sunset cocktails and dinner.

Visit Pinel Island

No trip to St. Martin would be complete without a trip to Pinel Island – one of the island’s top natural attractions. Many roundups of St. Martin’s best beaches surprisingly leave off Pinel Island, but it should not be missed. Spending a day on Pinel Island is hands down one of the best things to do in Saint Martin.

Pinel Island is a tiny cay reachable by a 5-minute boat ride from Cul-de-Sac at St. Martin’s northeast end. A small, wooden ferry leaves every 30 minutes, and in no time, you’ll be setting up a lounge chair on a pristine piece of white sand.

Pinel Island is popular among island and cruise ship visitors! Get there early and reserve a beach chair in advance at one of the two restaurants on the beach, Yellow Beach and Le Karibuni, to make sure you have a good spot. Both allow advance reservations.

Spend the day at Orient Bay

Orient Bay is arguably St. Martin’s most popular beach. It makes the list of best things to do in St. Martin because it is more than just sand and sea; it is a whole vibe. The beach is lined with bars, club, restaurants, watersport rentals, and more. (Be aware, however, there is a clothing optionable section at the far south end of the beach.)

Various beach clubs offer chair rentals. Rent chairs in advance from Kontiki , the first restaurant built on Orient Beach back in the 1980s. It remains an island mainstay and you can’t go wrong making it your home base.

Take a Sunset Boat Ride

Several tour companies offer sunset cruises in St. Martin. With a stunning coastline, lots of bays and other nooks and crannies to explore, this is a great way to see the island. Many boat cruises leave from the Dutch side of the island in Simpson Bay.

If you prefer to stay on the calmer French side of the island, look for an operator leaving from Marigot, Grand Case, or the marina at Anse Marcel.

Shop in Marigot

You’ll know you’re in the French Caribbean when you spend a day in Marigot, the capital of French St. Martin. The city became the capital during King Louis XVI’s reign, when he built the fort on one of the town’s hills. Learn about this history with a tour of Fort Louis, where you can also get clear views of Marigot—and the neighboring of Anguilla.

While you’re in Marigot, don’t forget to do some shopping. You’ll find several cute French clothing boutiques in town, along with jewelry and cosmetics. For local souvenirs, like colorful dresses, handmade jewelry, and trinkets, Marigot Market offers vendor stands and local cuisine.

Have Breakfast at Croissant Royal

Croissant Royal is the perfect place to start your day in Marigot. It’s calm, very French, and has some of the best croissants you will find, in or out of France. Go out of your way to check it out. The food says Parisian elegance, but the restaurant’s setting right on the water next to the Marina Port Le Royale will remind you you’re in the tropics.

Grab Lunch at Rosemary’s

Marigot offers numerous dining options, but Rosemary’s offers some of the best authentic, local cuisine on the island. Rosemary herself sits behind the counter, whipping up simple but delicious jerk chicken, lambi creole, and other island staples. Your lunch will be hustled out to plastic tables and chairs under a tent in the Marigot Market.

After an overflowing plate of rice and beans, plantains, salads, and potatoes, you may not have any energy left for strolling. Do your shopping first, then reward your efforts with lunch at Rosemary’s.

Take a Day Trip to Anguilla

Anguilla is another island that lies only a 25-minute ferry ride from St. Martin – an easy day trip! The ferry leaves from the port of Marigot, so you could start with breakfast at Croissant Royal and then spend the day island jumping.

Anguilla offers a different vibe. Whereas St. Martin’s beaches are relatively small and active, Anguilla has long stretches of white sand and a more low-key experience. The two most popular Anguilla beaches are Shoal Bay and Meads Bay, with Rendezvous Bay Beach getting a nod as the best beach for families.

Explore Loterie Farm

Formerly a sugar farm, Loterie Farm is now a private nature reserve just a few minutes from Marigot. If you’re looking for things to do in Saint Martin off the beach, it’s a great option. Here you’ll find hiking trails, a refreshing jungle-themed pool (for adults and kids 13+), and a playground with its own kids’ pool.

Loterie Farm’s biggest draw is likely to be the zip line course, which speeds you through a forest canopy while traversing a valley below. The course takes about an hour to complete and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Hikes are self-guided and offer sweeping views of the island.

Hike to Pic Paradis

Another great hike can be found at Pic Paradis, a nearly 3-mile trek to the highest point of the island. The trailhead can be found near Colombier on the French side of the island. The trail is well-marked and of moderate difficulty—but bring plenty of water and be prepared to scramble for small stretches. Many hikers spot monkeys along the path. Branching trails will take you to other crests of the island, including through the abandoned town of Petit-Fond, where you can still see ruins and tombs.

The hike to Pic Paradis makes the list of great things to do in St Martin because, at the top, you’ll be rewarded with a panorama of all of Orient Bay, and all the way out to nearby St. Barth on a clear day.

Make Your Own Perfume

Many visitors will want to stop by the Tijon factory in Grand Case for the chance to develop their own unique perfume. Under the guidance of an experienced perfumologists, participants will mix their own oils and create their own, personal fragrance.

Tijon began at St. Martin, but now has outposts in Charleston and New Orleans. Guests will have a chance to experiment with scents that blend French sophistication with the Caribbean’s tropical notes. Everyone takes home their own bottle and formula should they wish to order more.

Unwind at Anse Marcel Beach Resort

Anse Marcel Resort offers the perfect setting to enjoy Saint Martin’s beautiful beaches. The resort is perched on Anse Marcel bay, one the island’s best spots for enjoying the ocean. You can reserve chairs ahead of time, and the hotel’s restaurant offers a celebrated lunch service right by the shore.

The ocean is calm, and the water is shallow for a long stretch, making it perfect for kids. Since the beach itself is off the cruise ship radar, you can be sure of a quiet and relaxing day when the island might otherwise seem crowded. Come for a swim in the morning and then stay through a delicious lunch!

Touch an Airplane at Maho Beach

Among the most instantly recognizable images of Saint Martin: beachgoers reaching out to (almost) touch the aircraft that shoot over Maho beach just before landing at the extremely short runway at Princess Juliana International Airport. This attraction requires you to cross over the Dutch side of Sint Maarten, but it’s highly recommended even if you spend most of your time on the French side.

Post up at the Sunset Bar and Grill at the end of the beach or just set out a towel, then pull up the airport’s arrivals schedule. Bigger planes typically arrive between noon and 3 pm. If you time it just right, you can capture a shot that makes it look like you are grabbing the wing of a jet as it wooshes overhead.

Swim and Snorkel at Mullet Bay

Just north of Maho beach and the airport is the picturesque stretch of white sand around Mullet Bay. The water is clear and, typically, will have hardly a ripple. There are plenty of chairs to rent and a handful of snack and sandwich shacks where you can grab drinks or an easy lunch. Rocks near the beach’s northern end offer a chance to snorkel with a range of reef fishes. Pull up, park and plop down on the sand. This is one of the easiest spots to get into the sand and sun of this beachy island.

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Side Trips in Paris

Parisians generally feel that their capital is the center of the universe. They may be correct, if only geographically speaking. Paris is at the heart of the region of Ile-de-France (the Island of France) and is encircled by seven suburban départements commonly and regally referred to as the petite couronne and grande couronne . These “crowns” are dotted with cultural and historic treasures, from majestic palaces to picturesque artistic villages, and are only a short journey from the city.

Paris has no lack of intriguing day-trip destinations. Your main problem will be deciding which one(s) to visit. If you’ve never been there, your first choice should probably be the château and gardens of Versailles . They’re close by, easily accessible by train, and truly not to be missed. Chartres would be my second choice, for its breathtaking Gothic cathedral, its winding streets, and half-timbered houses, which will give you a taste of something completely different from Paris. After that, it’s a toss-up. If you like cities, Amiens is fascinating (and pictured above), with its Gothic cathedral, floating gardens and Jules Verne’s former home.  If castles are your game, Fontainebleau and Vaux-le-Vicomte should be high on your list. Fans of Claude Monet love exploring the gardens at Giverny , and families with kids in tow will appreciate Parc Astérix , a theme park dedicated to beloved French comic character, Asterix the Gaul, and (of course) Disneyland Paris .

All of these destinations are reachable by train from Paris. Train tickets do not require reservations and can be bought the day of an excursion at the departing train or subway station. You can find more information about the train schedule of suburban trains at www.transilien.com . For Chartres and Vernon/Giverny, you can also check  www.sncf-connect.com .

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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French Side Travel

9 Trips match your criteria (1 - 9 shown)

The Real Provence

Aix En Provence, Arles, Avignon, Saint Remy de Provence

• Visit Avignon, “La Cite des Papes” and follow the footsteps of Paul
• Cezanne in picturesque Aix-en-Provence
• Cassis and the Calanques will have you fall in love with the beautiful scenery
• Enjoy a stunning drive along the countryside of Luberon

Culinary & Wine, Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

Private Short Snow Break in Courchevel

Alps, Geneva

• Ski in the world’s biggest skiing area, the 3 Valleys
• Enjoy breath-taking views over the French Alps
• Let yourself be tempted by the charm and elegance of a 4-star hotel with wellness area

Family Friendly, High Adventure, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Skiing / Snowboarding

Stay in a 5-star hotel on the Mythical Ski Slopes of Val d'Isère

• Stay in a beautiful 5 star hotel
• Complete package with ski equipment rental, skiwear and lski pass.
• Private transfers from the airport to your hotel.
• One full day Ski Guiding to discover the station

Snow break in Val Thorens, the French ski resort that offers the best of skiing

• Stay in a beautiful 5-star hotel
• Take advantage of a complete package with ski equipment rental, skiwear and ski pass
• Private transfers from the airport to your hotel; enjoy one full day Ski Guiding to discover the station

Nature & Culture Tour of Guadeloupe

• Explore a local nature reserve with its 15-mile (25 km) coral reef and neighboring mangrove.
• Experience the rainforest and its waterfalls. Visit an artisanal oil and soap manufacturer.
• Soak up the sun on picturesque white sand beaches. Stay in authentic lodgings with swimming pool.

Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

Short ski break to Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley

• Stay in a beautiful 4-star hotel
• Complete package with ski equipment rental, skiwear and ski pass.

Family Friendly, High Adventure, Skiing / Snowboarding

Hikes and Boat Trips in Martinique

• Enjoy a guided hike Explore the beautiful nature on Martinique. Have fun during a boat trip and sailing day. Relax at the beach Enjoy a typical Caribbean evening.

Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Sailing

Short Tour to Martinique

• Discover Martinique’s most beautiful islands by boat.
• Snorkel in the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea.
• Explore Chancel islet by horse-drawn carriage or jeep.
• Learn more about Martinique’s rich history and culture through experienced local guides.
• Enjoy Martinique at your own pace with a rental car.

Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

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Best road trips in France – exciting itineraries around the French countryside

Europe , France , Travel Guides / November 19, 2022 by littleholidays / 5 Comments

Get to know France beyond the glitz and glamor of its cities!

Go for a road trip to the French countryside and explore its fragrant fields, cliffside castles, and vibrant vineyards.

Here are 6 of the best French road trips to take.

Best road trips in France

Here are 6 of the best French road trip routes for your next travels. You’ll find more details, itinerary recommendations, and road trip tips below.

• Alsace wine route
• Route Napoleon
• Normandy and the Loire Valley
• Bordeaux to Biarritz
• Languedoc and Provence
• Toulouse to Montpellier

Only have time for a short and sweet weekend trip? Check out these French weekend destinations for ideas!

Use this Google map to plan your fabulous French road trip.

1. Alsace wine route

Begin your road trip in Strasbourg, a beautiful border city that enjoys French finesse and German joviality. Stay in the gorgeous Cour du Corbeau and take your time exploring the storybook districts of Petite France and Place Kleber, eating tarte flambée and choucroute, and taking road trips to the northern Vosges natural park.

For a quick and active way to explore the city, go on a guided bike tour of Strasbourg .

After 3-4 days of dining, hiking, and shopping, drive south to Colmar and make the charming Le Colombier your base as you explore the south of Alsace. Visit Eguisheim, Riquewihr, and Kaysersberg, Alsace’s small wine-growing towns, and taste the region’s world-class white wines.

Walk along vineyards, hike to old castles and ruins, and end your days with hearty food and great wine. Unwind with a trip to Lac du Ballon and the Grand Ballon and enjoy the forest trails and spectacular views. On your way back to Strasbourg, stop by the medieval chateau of Haut-Koenigsbourg.

Top tips for your Alsace road trip

• Fly to Strasbourg (buses and trains from elsewhere are also doable)
• Reserve your car online in advance and pick it up either from the Strasbourg airport or from Gare Centrale
• Divide your stay between Strasbourg and Colmar . Stay in Strasbourg to explore northern Alsace, then move to Colmar to explore the southern parts.
• Don’t drink and drive! Have a designated driver or bring home a bottle of wine to enjoy at the hotel at the end of the day.
• Driving in Alsace
• Best things to do in Strasbourg
• Best things to do in Colmar

2. Route Napoleon

Combine sightseeing with learning about history in this road trip that follows Napoleon Bonaparte’s 1815 march from Elba to Grenoble on his way to overthrow Louis the 18 th . This road trip route is especially scenic, as Napoleon chose remote roads that avoid large cities and pass through beautiful countryside.

Fly to and get your car in Cannes , then head straight to Grasse, the center of the French perfume industry. Check in to the quaint Aux charmes de grasse and explore the hilly medieval town for a day or two.

Head next to the mountains for a stunning view of the Mediterranean coast, and keep your eyes peeled for signs and plaques commemorating Napoleon’s march along the mountain roads.

Drive to the Col de Valferriere, the ruins of Chateau de Broundet at Seranon, and the pretty town of Castellane. This is one of the most scenic segments of the trip and the most exhilarating with its hairpin turns and cliffside views.

Make a short detour to the Verdon Gorge before continuing to stay the night at the elegant La Bonne Étape , where you can celebrate your mountain driving feats with haute cuisine and an extensive wine collection.

After your restful pitstop, continue your drive to Grenoble, making sure to stop by Grand lac de Laffrey to marvel at the bright blue lake. Finally, in Grenoble, check in to Le Grand Hotel Grenoble and spend the next couple of days enjoying crozets and foie gras and gorgeous mountain views at every turn.

Top tips for your Route Napoleon road trip

• Fly to Cannes or Nice
• Take advantage of one-way car rentals – get your car from Cannes (or Nice) and return it in Grenoble
• Book your hotels in advance – perfect stopovers are: Grasse , La Bonne Étape , and Grenoble
• A wild road follows a wild river – here’s one more road trip itinerary off the Route Napoleon

3. Normandy and the Loire Valley

History buffs will love this road trip through the historic Normandy and Loire Valley. If you’re visiting Paris, it’s one of the best road trips to take after you’ve had your fill of the French capital. You can make a nice loop and explore the regions west of Paris to see the French countryside beyond its flashy cities.

From Paris, drive to Rouen, a historic medieval town that inspired many Impressionist painters, including Claude Monet. Walk around to see the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Gros Horloge, and the charming half-timbered houses. Continue your drive to Honfleur, a harbor town with picturesque streets, which is also the perfect place to stop for lunch.

Next up, visit the historic beaches of Normandy, where the Allies landed in 1944. Take a day or two to visit the World War 2 sites and tributes, or join a Normandy battlefields day tour with an expert guide .

Stay in either Bayeux or Caen as you explore Normandy. Manoir Sainte Victoire in Bayeux and Hotel La Fontaine in Caen are perfect places to stay in Normandy.

While you’re in Normandy, explore the neighboring Brittany region. Visit the fortified city of Saint-Malo, then head to Mont Saint-Michel, an impressive island commune perched on a rocky peak.

Head next to Loire Valley, making Tours your base ( Hotel Val De Loire is our top pick). Spend the next few days time-traveling to medieval towns and chateaux. Don’t miss the beautiful Chateau de Cheverny and Chateau de Chambord!

From Tours, a scenic drive northeast brings you right back to Paris.

Top tips for your Normandy road trip

• Fly to Paris
• After a couple of days exploring the capital city, pick up your rental car in Paris and start your drive to Normandy
• Book your hotels in advance – perfect stopovers are Caen and Tours .

4. Bordeaux to Biarritz

Need a quick break from hectic city life? This road trip that goes from countryside to coast is the perfect antidote.

Begin your holiday in Bordeaux. Get a car and spend a couple of days driving around the wine region, making sure to make your way to the beautiful medieval village of Saint-Emilion. Go on hikes, fuel up on the region’s amazing cuisine, sample the region’s wines , and see the city on bikes .

Stay at Yndo Hotel to get the best of Bordeaux. Once you’ve had your fill of this scrumptious city, pack your car and head south.

Break up your drive with a quick stop at Domaine de Laas to enjoy the chateau’s vast gardens and artworks. Have lunch at Navarrenx, crowned France’s most beautiful village in 2014, and take a stroll around the markets. Finally, drive into Barcus and spend a day or two relaxing in the serene Hotel Restaurant Chilo , while you go for hikes and drives to the surrounding mountains.

From Barcus, it’s time to make your way to the coast. Stop by Saint Jean Pied de Port for breathtaking views of the Pyrenees and a walk around the walled town, then proceed to Saint Jean de Luz for a wonderful Basque meal by the bay.

Finally, make your way to Biarritz and check in to Le Garage , where you can spend the final stretch of your trip swimming and surfing to your heart’s content. Take a half-hour drive to San Sebastian in Spain’s Basque country for the most amazing tapas and paella.

Top tips for your Bordeaux to Biarritz road trip

• Fly into Bordeaux , fly out from Biarritz
• Reserve your rental car for pick-up in Bordeaux and drop-off in Biarritz
• Book your hotels in advance – perfect stopovers are: Bordeaux , Barcus , and Biarritz

5. Languedoc and Provence

Nature-lovers and beauty connoisseurs, this road trip’s for you. The neighboring provinces of Languedoc and Provence will have you swooning for dramatic bastides, frolicking in flower fields, and embracing the sunshine and stunning sceneries.

Fly into Avignon and, unless you’re arriving on an evening trip, pick up your rental car and drive to the romantic medieval town of Uzes. Make the lovely L’Albiousse your base for the first half of this road trip as you take your time exploring the gorgeous region of Languedoc.

From Uzes, drive south to visit Nimes, a beautiful well-preserved city with vestiges of the Roman Empire. Explore the Amphitheater , one of the world’s best-conserved artifacts of Roman architecture. Check out the 2,000-year-old Pont du Gard aqueduct, Jardins de la Fontaine, and the Maison Carree. This 2-hour walking tour introduces you to the city’s Roman culture.

Go further south through Arles and Camargue, and all the way to Aigues Mortes, a medieval walled French commune with plenty of stories to tell.

After exploring east of Languedoc, it’s time to cross over to Provence. Move to Hotel Chateau Des Alpilles in Saint Remy, and relax as you get ready for a drive across the bendy yet oh-so-breathtaking roads of Provence.

Start at the postcard-perfect L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and make your way east, through the Luberon to Gordes and Roussillion. Take some time to stroll around each of these old towns and take hikes around the surrounding forest trails. If you’re traveling from late June to early August, it’s worth driving all the way to Valensole to see – and frolic in – the copious lavender fields.

Once you’ve breathed in all the beauty of Southern France, return your car and fly out of Avignon.

Top tips for your South of France road trip

• Fly in and out of Avignon
• Reserve your rental car for pick-up and drop-off at Avignon
• Book your hotels in advance – Uzes and Saint-Remy are perfect bases, but if you prefer to stay in one place, Avignon is a great central location

6. Toulouse to Montpellier

For a relaxed and balanced mix of city breaks, natural landscapes, and a touch of Spanish customs and cuisine, head to the warm and sunny Occitanie region.

Start your adventures in Toulouse, a vibrant and youthful city known for its warm brick and terracotta architecture, earning it its nickname “The Pink City”. You’ll want to stay for at least two days – Le Grand Balcon Hotel is a gorgeous base.

Walk around the Japanese garden in the center of Compans-Caffarelli park, visit the Basilica of Saint Sernin, and check out Roman art at the Musée Saint Raymond.

(Top tip: if you’re planning to explore Toulouse’s museums and monuments, get the Toulouse City Card for discounts to the city’s top sights and free travel on the local public transport.)

While you’re in Toulouse, drive a little over an hour north to Cordes sur Ciel, one of France’s most beautiful villages . This quaint medieval town was founded in 1222 and is a historic, gothic showcase of the evolution of architecture.

From Toulouse, slowly begin your drive east. Stop by Carcassonne and see sites of scenes from the Robin Hood movie. Spend a few hours exploring the Carcassonne Fortress.

Continue on to the Haut-Languedoc Regional Nature Park , where you’ll want to stay for a couple of days, especially if you love nature trips. During the warm months, you can go hiking, cycling, kayaking, or swimming, or simply enjoy the journey around the nature park.

Stay at Villa d’illouvre , a cozy bed and breakfast nestled in nature. For a special treat, dine at Les Fleurs d’Olargues – make sure to book in advance!

Continue on to Montpellier and enjoy walks around the old town, visits to patisseries and cafes, and food festivals during the summer months. You’ll also be a short drive away from the beach, so stay for a bit longer if you want to soak up the sun. Domaine de Biar is a gorgeous boutique hotel just a short drive away from the center.

Top tips for your Toulouse to Montpellier road trip

• Fly in to Toulouse and out of Montpellier or Nimes
• Reserve your rental car for pick-up at Toulouse and drop-off at Montpellier
• Book your hotels in advance – stay in Toulouse , at the Haut-Languedoc Regional Nature Park , and Montpellier .

Ready to go on your fabulous French countryside road trip?

Here are helpful links to help you plan your road trip:

• Complete guide to driving in France

Includes requirements for driving, options for renting a car, road rules, and driving safety, as well as estimated costs.

• Car hire locations in France

Got other road trip itineraries in mind? Check the list of car hire locations in France and take advantage of one-way rentals. You can also input your travel dates and locations below for a quick free quote and instant reservation.

I hope this gives you fantastic ideas for your road trip in France! Enjoy your holiday!

First published – 8 September 2018

Last updated – 19 November 2022, updated information and added Toulouse-Montpellier route

Reader Interactions

September 11, 2018 at 5:38 am

What a gorgeous post.

September 14, 2018 at 3:13 pm

Hi, What would be the best way to get frame Rome to Nice?My mom is 81 and I’m worried about all the steps down to some trains so she thought the bus might be better. What are your hours; we will be doing this Nov 1- 10. Thanks for your input. Erin

September 16, 2018 at 7:33 pm

Hi Erin, here’s a nice website that you can use for finding routes – https://www.rome2rio.com/ . You’ll see all your options there, including number of hours and estimated prices. Have fun on your trip!

February 10, 2019 at 1:13 am

Thanks for your post, great tips as we are planning a driving trip to Normandy in May. We have done a driving tour of Provence a few years ago and you can’t beat getting up close to the charm of the french villages. The problem is so many gorgeous places to see and stay it’s hard to decide but of course half of the fun.

February 11, 2019 at 5:12 pm

Ah yes, so many charming French villages, so little time. 😉 Thanks for reading, Anne! Have a great time in Normandy – I’m sure it will be lovely in May.

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