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France
From the French Riviera to the idyllic countryside of Provence
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The Charming Dordogne
The Charming Dordogne
7 days from £1,099 pp
  • Enjoy idyllic views from a relaxing cruise along the Dordogne
  • Based in a family run hotel in Les Eyzies, explore the region’s villages and cuisine
  • Travel in the open-air carriages of Truffadou Steam Train, a heritage railway
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Avignon, the Rhône & Provence
Avignon, the Rhône & Provence
7 days from £1,599 pp
  • Explore Provence with guided tours of Avignon, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, and Gordes
  • Enjoy a Rhône River cruise, a wine tasting, and visit the Pont du Gard
  • Savour Avignon's culinary delights with First Class rail travel
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Nice Carnival & the French Riviera
Nice Carnival & The French Riviera
6 days from £1,099 pp
  • Experience the world-famous spectacle of Nice Carnival from reserved grandstand seats
  • Visit the millionaire’s playground of Monte Carlo, visiting the iconic casino and Old Town
  • Enjoy free time to explore the picturesque towns of the French Riviera at leisure
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France Tours & Holidays

Rolling hills blanketed by tantalisingly fruitful vines, opulent châteaux surrounded by manicured gardens, glamorous, azure coastlines and mouthwatering cuisine. The beauty, culture and charm of France is within easy reach on its high-speed rail network, as we explore rivers and towns that inspired world-famous artists or bask in upmarket resorts on the glistening French Riviera.

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

Excellent5 stars21,157 reviews on

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Experience the elegance of France

ClassicClassic
Rocamadour
Flavours of the Dordogne
2026AugSepOct
2027AprJunSep
7 days from
£1,999 pp
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ClassicClassic
Carcassonne & the Canal du Midi
First-Class Carcassonne, Châteaux & Vineyards
4.3 stars(283 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
7 days from
£1,999 pp
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ClassicClassic
Nice & the Cote d'Azur
First-Class Cannes & the Côte d'Azur
4.3 stars(62 reviews)
2026AugSep
2027AprMayJunSep
7 days from
£1,999 pp
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ClassicClassic
Chateau De Menthon
Classic Lakes & Mountains of France & Switzerland
2027MayJunJulSep
8 days from
£2,799 pp
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ClassicClassic
Nice Carnival
First-Class Côte d'Azur & Nice Carnival
4.5 stars(44 reviews)
2027Feb
7 days from
£1,999 pp
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ClassicClassic
Girolata Bay
First-Class Wonders of Corsica & Sardinia
2026AugSep
2027AprMayJunSep
12 days from
£3,499 pp
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Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva, Chamonix & Mont Blanc
4.4 stars(158 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAugSep
7 days from
£1,899 pp
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ClassicClassic
Verdon Gorges
Walk & Tour: Portraits of Provence
2026Oct
7 days from
£1,999 pp
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Discover the best of France with Great Rail Journeys

Authentic French flavours

France invites you to savour the flavours that defines its regions. Indulge in a delicious lunch and wine-tasting at the 17th-century Château de Pennautier, discover the stalls of Les Halles food market in ancient Narbonne and soak up the atmosphere of Mirepoix's weekly market, sampling fresh produce and celebrated wines along the way.

History along the Rhône

The charming Rhône reveals stories shaped by empires, artists and centuries of tradition. Embark on a cruise down the river to Arles, an ancient city rich in Roman heritage and once home to Vincent van Gogh, and explore the historic city of Avignon, where Popes once resided and Gothic architecture still dominates the skyline.

Elegant riviera towns

The sparkling blue coastline and picturesque towns of the French Riviera are a delight for any visitor. Experience the glamour of Monaco, from the Changing of the Guards at the Palais du Prince to viewing the famed Monte-Carlo Casino. Uncover the stylish town of Cannes, where golden beaches meet elegant boulevards and old town lanes.

Timeless romance of Paris

Experience the charm of Parisian life, capturing the essence of French elegance with its timeless landmarks, artistic heritage and café-lined boulevards. Cruise along the Seine River for a magical perspective of the city, gliding past icons such as Notre Dame, the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, and discover the charm of Montmartre's cobbled streets.

29 results matching: France

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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Ardeche GorgeArdeche GorgeArdeche GorgeArdeche GorgeArdeche Gorge
Save £300pp
Provence & the Elegant Rhône
4.4 stars(173 reviews)
2026AugSep
2027AprMayJunJulSepOct

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

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8 days from
£2,799 pp
per person
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LuxuryLuxury
Arc De TriompheArc De TriompheArc De TriompheArc De TriompheArc De Triomphe
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Paris to Istanbul

Travel through Europe in luxury aboard the opulent Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. With its Art Deco interiors and atmosphere of grandeur, this is a decadent journey like no other. Enjoy world-class gastronomy as you spend five nights travelling between Paris and Istanbul - a celebrated route that takes you back to the golden age of rail travel.

8 days from
£20,755 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
BloisBloisBloisBloisBlois
Save £300pp
Gardens of the Loire Valley & Seine Cruise
2026Sep
2027AprMayJunSep

Discover some of the best-loved châteaux of the Loire Valley, exploring the iconic Château de Chenonceau, Leonardo da Vinci's Clos Lucé, and Château de Chaumont, before boarding the MS Amadeus Diamond for a leisurely cruise along the Seine. Experience the charms of Auvers-sur-Oise, medieval Rouen and the artistic streets Honfleur. Delve into...

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11 days from
£3,999 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
AmsterdamAmsterdamAmsterdamAmsterdamAmsterdam
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The Romantic Rhine: Amsterdam to Basel - Fly
2027MayJunJul

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

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Save £300pp
8 days from
£2,499 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
ParisParisParisParisParis
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Impressions of France: Paris, Normandy & the Seine
4.2 stars(46 reviews)
2026Sep
2027AprJunSep

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

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8 days from
£2,699 pp
per person
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The Charming DordogneThe Charming DordogneThe Charming DordogneThe Charming DordogneThe Charming Dordogne
The Charming Dordogne
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

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

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7 days from
£1,099 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Carcassonne & the Canal du MidiCarcassonne & the Canal du MidiCarcassonne & the Canal du MidiCarcassonne & the Canal du MidiCarcassonne & the Canal du Midi
First-Class Carcassonne, Châteaux & Vineyards
4.3 stars(283 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

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

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7 days from
£1,999 pp
per person
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Avignon, the Rhône & ProvenceAvignon, the Rhône & ProvenceAvignon, the Rhône & ProvenceAvignon, the Rhône & ProvenceAvignon, the Rhône & Provence
Avignon, the Rhône & Provence
4.4 stars(197 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027MayJunAugSepOct

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

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7 days from
£1,599 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Rhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine Gorge
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The Majestic Rhine: Basel to Amsterdam
4.5 stars(272 reviews)
2027MayJunJul

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

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Save £300pp
8 days from
£2,499 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
BaselBaselBaselBaselBasel
Save £300pp
The Romantic Rhine: Amsterdam to Basel
4.4 stars(170 reviews)
2027MayJunJul

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

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Save £300pp
8 days from
£2,199 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
La RochelleLa RochelleLa RochelleLa RochelleLa Rochelle
Beautiful Bordeaux, the Dordogne & La Rochelle
2026Sep
2027JunSep

Experience the idyllic landscapes of the Bordeaux wine region on a leisurely river cruise on the Garonne and Dordogne. Discover Bordeaux's 18th-century grandeur and cruise to medieval St Émilion, where ancient caves and Europe's largest monolithic church await. Explore the renowned Médoc wine route, visit the prestigious Rochefort and picturesque...

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7 days from
£2,599 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Lake GenevaLake GenevaLake GenevaLake GenevaLake Geneva
Lake Geneva, Chamonix & Mont Blanc
4.4 stars(158 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAugSep

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

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7 days from
£1,899 pp
per person
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Our customers love our France tours
Provence & the Elegant Rhône
29/Jun
P Warren
5 stars
“It was a most enjoyable holiday. The Amadeus Provence was very comfortable, with friendly and helpful staff and excellent food. Our tour managers, Ian and Neal, were first rate,taking good care of us and ensuring that all the excursions went smoothly. My experience of the local guides was good. my...
Collected by Trustpilot
First-Class Carcassonne, Châteaux & Vineyards
29/Jun
Barbara
5 stars
“Well organised journeys and excursions. Very approachable and helpful tour manager. Super hotel, meals and service A delightful holiday with interesting tours and time for leisure. We loved it.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Romantic Rhine: Amsterdam to Basel
23/Jun
OMD
5 stars
“trip was great with lots of fantastic excursions - boat was excellent - trip leaders were so helpful
Collected by Trustpilot
Lake Geneva, Chamonix & Mont Blanc
22/Jun
Lesley
5 stars
“Excellent programme, fantastic hotel and good company. The tour manager Rebecca was fantastic and Switzerland did not disappoint.
Collected by Trustpilot
Impressions of France: Paris, Normandy & the Seine
3/Jun
Brenda
5 stars
“Very interesting and beautiful destinations, comfortable cabins, lovely staff and wonderful meals
Collected by Trustpilot
The Majestic Rhine: Basel to Amsterdam
30/Jun
Customer
4 stars
“Very nice but certain things could be improved. The food was amazing though and the staff in the restaurant are a credit to the company. Andrew and Liz worked hard to keep everything on track despite the early issues with delays due to an unfortunate incident at Dijon. The onboard...
Collected by Trustpilot
Avignon, the Rhône & Provence
19/Jun
P Park
4 stars
“Great trip. Lots of historical and cultural sites. Fabulous weather and easy to navigate around the area. Second time used Great Rail Journeys and they are a splendid company to travel with. Organised and lots included - good value for money.
Collected by Trustpilot

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit France?

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

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

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

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

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

Do I need travel insurance for France?

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

What currency is used in France?

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

Do people in France speak English?

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

What are the must-visit destinations in France?

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

What’s the tipping culture in France?

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

What should I pack for a trip to France?

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

How many people go on one of your holidays?

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

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

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

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