Part of our France guide.
2 places and guides from our France coverage, gathered into one page.
Best Beaches in France for Your Summer Getaways
France’s coastline offers over 5,000 kilometers of beaches, from the glamorous Côte d’Azur to the wild Atlantic shores. The best beaches include the calanques near Cassis, the sandy stretches of Biarritz, and the family-friendly Plage de la Grande Conche in Royan. The beaches provide an escape distinct from exploring lavender fields or skiing. Whether you’re after swimming, surfing, or simply sunbathing, the Mediterranean coast offers warm waters from June to September, while the Atlantic is best for surf from July to October. For a quieter experience, head to the Île de Ré or the pink granite coast in Brittany, where tides reveal hidden coves at low water.
Paris Is Wonderful In Winter
Winter in Paris, from December to February, sees average highs of 7°C and fewer crowds than summer. The festive atmosphere includes the Christmas markets at the Tuileries Garden and along the Champs-Élysées, open from mid-November to early January. Indoor attractions like the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay see shorter queues, and you can warm up with a bowl of onion soup at a traditional bistro. For a special evening, get a reservation at Girafe Paris for views of the Eiffel Tower from the Trocadéro. The Paris travel guide on this site covers top winter itineraries, including ice skating at the Hôtel de Ville and exploring the covered passages of the 2nd arrondissement. If you’re planning a longer trip, the travel guide in France section offers tips on combining Paris with a visit to the Loire Valley châteaux or the Christmas markets in Strasbourg.
More about France
For those seeking sun in winter, the South of France offers mild temperatures around 12°C in Nice and Marseille. The Carnival of Nice takes place in February, and the lavender fields of Provence bloom from mid-June to late July. Among the things to do in France, visiting the beautiful towns of Gordes and Roussillon, with their ochre cliffs and hilltop views, is a highlight of any Provence road trip. If you’re heading to the coast, the hidden gems in France include the calanques of Cassis and the medieval village of Eze, both accessible by bus from Nice. For a day trip from Paris, consider get to Mont Saint Michel on a cruise from the port of Saint-Malo, which runs from April to October. Finally, check our guide on what to pack for a trip to France in winter or summer, depending on your season—layers and comfortable walking shoes are essential year-round.
