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France

Places to visit in France

There are so many amazing places to visit in France, and they are very easy to reach with a short hop across the Channel on one of our ferries.

With great food, stunning beaches, plenty of history, and a fascinating culture, it is no wonder that France is one of the top holiday destinations for people in the UK. There really is something for everyone, from vibrant cities to peaceful countryside escapes, making it easy to explore some of the best places to visit in France.

So, whether you are hoping to explore vibrant cities, hide away and relax in a country retreat, or unwind on a beautiful beach, you will certainly find what you are looking for in one of these top places to visit in France.

Taking your car? Upgrade to one of our Flexi tickets for more freedom and peace of mind. Take the scenic route home at a leisurely pace with either our Standard Flexi or Fully Flexi tickets, and enjoy greater flexibility in your departure time!

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City breaks
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Country retreats
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French riviera holidays
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Skiing holidays

Top Places to Visit in France

City Breaks in France

A city break is a perfect way to experience some of the most popular France attractions, combining culture, food and history in one trip.

Some of the best places to visit in France are in Paris, if you are looking for iconic landmarks, beautiful restaurants and endless shopping opportunities. From world-famous museums to historic neighbourhoods, there are countless things to do in Paris, France, for every type of traveller.

Alternatively, head towards the Belgian border and visit Lille, where you can explore its charming Old Town and admire the city’s impressive architecture. This creative city offers a relaxed atmosphere and is often highlighted as one of the lesser-known places to visit in France.

Further south-west, Toulouse known as the ‘Rose City’ due to its pink brick buildings, is another highlight. With vibrant food markets and lively nightlife, it is widely considered one of the top places to see in France for a cultural city experience.

All of these places to visit in France deserve a spot on your travel wish list, and with the 90-minute Dover to Calais crossing, you can reach this diverse country and begin exploring quickly.

Make your city break to France even more special by treating yourself to our Club Lounge. Enjoy complimentary food and drink when you travel to France with P&O Ferries.

Places to Visit in France FAQs

1 What are the best places to visit in France?

Some of the best places to visit in France include Paris for iconic landmarks and culture, the French Riviera for beaches and sunshine, Normandy for history and coastal scenery, and the Loire Valley for châteaux and countryside. Each region offers a different experience, making France suitable for all types of trips.

2 Which cities should I visit on a first trip to France?

First-time visitors often start with Paris, followed by cities such as Lille for a relaxed city break or Toulouse for food, culture and nightlife. These cities combine famous attractions with walkable centres, making them ideal for short breaks.

3 What are the most popular places to see in France outside of cities?

Outside of major cities, popular France attractions include the Normandy coastline, the French Alps, Provence’s countryside, and the beaches of the French Riviera. These areas are perfect for travellers looking to explore scenic landscapes, outdoor activities, and quieter destinations.

4 Is France a good destination for a family trip?

Yes, France is a great choice for families. From theme parks and beaches to historic towns and countryside escapes, there are plenty of family-friendly places to visit in France. Travelling by ferry also makes it easier to bring everything you need for a comfortable family trip.

5 What is the best time of year to visit France?

France can be visited year-round depending on the type of trip you’re planning. Spring and summer are ideal for city breaks and coastal destinations, autumn is great for countryside and wine regions, and winter is perfect for visiting the French Alps or enjoying festive city breaks.

Popular places to visit in France

If a city break isn’t what you are after, there are plenty of places in the countryside you can visit too.

Those who love history will enjoy exploring popular France attractions such as Calais, Brittany, and Normandy. These regions are rich in heritage, with coastal scenery, historic towns and grand châteaux forming some of the most memorable places to visit in France.

For travellers looking for something more active, the north-west of France is also known for some of the best cycling routes in France, offering another way to explore scenic French places to visit at a relaxed pace.

Beautiful Places to Visit in France

Undoubtedly, one of the most beautiful places to visit in France is the French Riviera. It’s a perfect destination for a beach holiday, and with roughly 300 days of sunshine each year, you will be spoilt for choice when and where to visit.

You could opt for fabulous Nice which is known for its luxury, or St Tropez or Cannes where you can enjoy a range of activities such as cruising, yachting, or playing golf.

The French Riviera is a 13-hour drive from Calais, but it will take you on a wonderful journey through the gorgeous countryside. If you want to schedule a break, you could even stop in one of the lovely towns or villages for a night along the way.

Cool Places to Visit in France

If city breaks or beach holidays aren’t your thing, one of the most popular places to visit in France in the winter is the French Alps. Whether you are a skier or snowboarder, the French Alps offer snow-topped mountains, tree-lined runs, and reliable snowfall, making this the perfect location for participating in your favourite winter sport. The Chamonix mountain range is the perfect place to go on a skiing holiday in France.

You can reach the Alps in less than 10 hours from Calais, and with loads of world-class resorts, you won’t struggle to find somewhere you would love to spend your holiday. Plus, don’t forget that when you travel with us, you can bring as much luggage as you lik,e so you don’t need to worry about leaving any vital equipment behind.

With so many different places to visit in France all year to suit all types of travellers, you will find something to suit you. So, don’t hesitate – book your ferry to France now and start planning your next trip today.

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