France Regions
Learn all about the different regions of France. From the snow capped Alps to the beaches of Provence to the rocky shores of Normandy and Brittany.
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Pays de la Loire: A Western Loire Gem
Experience the diverse beauty of the Pays de la Loire in western France, from its pristine Atlantic coastline to stunning medieval châteaux and vibrant cities. Highlights Plan Your Western Loire AdventureReady to discover Pays de la Loire? Contact us to arrange a custom trip—whether you’re craving coastal relaxation, historic immersion, or gastronomic delights in this captivating corner of France. Bon voyage! Read more: Learn about the ten “magical villages” of the Pays de la Loire.
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Hauts-de-France: Welcome to France’s Northernmost Region
The Hauts-de-France region, formed in 2016 by merging Nord–Pas-de-Calais and Picardy, stretches across five departments—Aisne, Nord, Oise, Pas-de-Calais, and Somme. It offers visitors an appealing blend of historic battlefields, rolling countryside, and vibrant coastal cities. Historic Landmarks and World War I Sites Landscapes: From Cliffs to Countryside Culinary Traditions and Festivals Getting There Lille: An Underrated Gem Once a medieval hub of the County of Flanders, Lille (France’s fourth-largest city) features: Amiens: Gothic Splendor and Local Flavors Amiens, located in the Somme department, brims with historic and cultural appeal: Whether you come for the powerful World War I history, the Flemish flair in Lille, or the sweeping beaches of the…
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Discover the Grand Est Region of France
Encompassing three historically distinct areas—Alsace, Lorraine, and Champagne—the Grand Est is widely regarded as one of France’s most picturesque regions, perfect for a memorable getaway. Champagne: A Tradition of Celebration Champagne is all about luxury and festivity, a custom rooted in the 10th century when it became the official drink at the coronation of King Hugh Capet. Today, 86,000 acres of vineyards produce 200 million bottles of bubbly each year—so popular and distinctive that the land gave its name to the wine. Visit the Champagne-Ardenne tourist office website for more information. Alsace: Fairy-Tale Landscapes Alsace captivates with half-timbered medieval houses, rolling hills, and storybook scenery beloved by hikers. Local cuisine…
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The Bourgogne-Franche-Comté Region
Welcome to Bourgogne-Franche-Comté! Created by merging the former regions of Burgundy and Franche-Comté in 2016, this eastern French region borders Switzerland and captivates visitors with its picturesque countryside, charming villages, storied past, and delightful food and wine. Burgundy – The Wine Capital of France Burgundy is world-renowned for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. With a heritage shaped by powerful dukes, grand castles, and influential abbeys, it’s a haven for both history and gastronomy lovers. Don’t Miss in Burgundy Interested in a day trip or overnight adventure?We offer a fantastic Burgundy day tour from Paris (with an overnight option) that includes wine tastings and sightseeing excursions. Dijon, France Capital of…
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The Occitanie Region of France
Welcome to Languedoc-Roussillon and the Midi-Pyrénées Occitanie sits in France’s sun-drenched south, uniting Languedoc-Roussillon and Midi-Pyrénées since 2016. Along its Mediterranean coast, you’ll find everything from Narbonne’s wide sandy shores to Collioure’s rocky coves, plus the famed Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage marvel linking sea to ocean. Beyond the coast, Roman relics like the Pont du Gard aqueduct and the Amphitheatre of Nimes share the spotlight with Carcassonne, a medieval fortress city beloved by visitors worldwide. Occitanie also shines for its wine and gastronomy, producing some of France’s finest vintages in Languedoc, Minervois, and Corbières. Visitors can tour vineyards, sample local varietals, and relish regional favorites like cassoulet…
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Discover Nouvelle-Aquitaine
A Diverse Region with Rich History and Culture Bienvenue to Nouvelle-Aquitaine, a captivating region in southwestern France where pristine coastlines, lush vineyards, historic towns, and vibrant cities converge. Formed by the merging of Aquitaine, Poitou-Charentes, and Limousin, Nouvelle-Aquitaine stretches from the Atlantic beaches of Biarritz to the rolling hills around Limoges, offering a wealth of cultural and natural treasures. Geography and Getting There Historical Highlights Bordeaux: Heart of the Region Limousin: Land of Green Hills and Fine Porcelain Poitou-Charentes: The Heart of Cognac Country Culinary Delights Practical Info Plan Your Visit Whether you’re craving a wine-tasting getaway in Bordeaux, a nature-focused escape in Limousin, or a serene boat ride through…
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Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Discover a captivating region in southeastern France where majestic mountains, volcanic wonders, and vibrant cities converge. From the ancient peaks of Auvergne’s Massif Central to the culinary prowess of Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes offers a tapestry of experiences for nature lovers, foodies, and history buffs alike. Auvergne: Land of Volcanoes and Lakes Dominated by the rugged Massif Central, Auvergne boasts ancient volcanic peaks like Puy de Dôme and serene lakes perfect for water sports. Medieval churches, Renaissance palaces, and hearty local fare—think blue cheeses and creamy pounti—highlight the region’s proud heritage. Outdoor enthusiasts flock here year-round for hiking, skiing, rafting, and more. Rhône-Alpes: Diversity at Its Finest Stretching from Alpine heights to…
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Discover Brittany
Travel in the Footsteps of Brittany’s Artists The French Ministry of Culture has designated eight cities in Brittany as national “cities of art and history” for their contributions to the culture and beauty of France. They are: Quimper, Auray, Vannes, Rennes, Fougères, Vitré, Dinan, and Saint-Malo. For more than two centuries, Brittany has inspired artists from all over the globe, and today it remains one of the most popular French regions for artists. Artists founded colonies at Concarneau, Pont-Aven, and Douarnenez. In the 1860s, the American artists Henry Bacon, Robert Wylie, and others traveled from Philadelphia through Paris to Brittany in search of fresh inspiration and established themselves in Pont-Aven.…
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The Brittany Coast By Car
Join us on our journey along the Brittany coast If you are determined to see the second most visited site in France, the monastery at Mont St. Michel, you might as well include the Brittany coast, too. That was our logic as we set off via rental car from Charles De Gaulle airport in Paris, me fresh off a coach flight from Los Angeles, husband John with a head start on his jet lag having arrived about 36 hours before. We were in a jaunty 5 speed diesel Renault rental, shockingly roomy inside, and with that awesome heating capability you absolutely need in Northern Europe, even in March. Maybe especially in…
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Exciting Le Havre Shore Excursions
Custom and Private Le Havre Shore Excursions If you are landing at a port of call in Normandy, France such as Le Havre please contact us to arrange a custom tour to the d-day landing beaches or for a special day trip to Paris. Pick-up and drop-off at your dock. Call us before your cruise toll free in the USA at 1-424-386-5222 or email us. Suggested Tour Sites and Destinations from Le Harve: If you have any other destinations in mind besides the above please visit our Normandy page. One thing to keep in mind when planning Le Havre Shore Excursions is that it is best to plan ahead. If not,…