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From the French Riviera to the idyllic countryside of Provence
Europe

Journey through France’s beauty, history and charm

DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Avignon, the Rhône & Provence
Avignon, the Rhône & Provence
7 days from £1,399 pp £1,249 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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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Charming Dordogne
The Charming Dordogne
7 days from £1,199 pp £1,049 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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ClassicClassic
Nice & the Cote d'Azur
First-Class Cannes & the Côte d'Azur
7 days from £2,149 pp £1,999 pp
  • Discover Cannes on a guided tour and afternoon tea at Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild
  • Explore Monaco, including Monte-Carlo Casino and the Changing of the Guards
  • Enjoy a lesson in pétanque in St-Paul-de-Vence and visit Grasse's perfumeries
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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. 

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Experience the elegance of France

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Carcassonne & the Canal du Midi
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First-Class Carcassonne, Châteaux & Vineyards
4.3 stars(245 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
7 days from
£2,049 pp £1,899 pp
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ClassicClassic
Rocamadour
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Flavours of the Dordogne
2026JunAugSepOct
2027AprJunSep
7 days from
£1,999 pp £1,849 pp
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ClassicClassic
Nice & the Cote d'Azur
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First-Class Cannes & the Côte d'Azur
4.2 stars(55 reviews)
2026AprJunAugSep
2027AprMayJunSep
7 days from
£2,149 pp £1,999 pp
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Ardeche Gorge
Save £300pp
Provence & the Elegant Rhône
4.4 stars(156 reviews)
2026AprJunJulAugSep
2027AprMayJunJulSepOct
8 days from
£2,299 pp
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
La Rochelle
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Beautiful Bordeaux, the Dordogne & La Rochelle
2026JunSep
2027JunSep
7 days from
£2,499 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Avignon, the Rhône & Provence
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Avignon, the Rhône & Provence
4.4 stars(183 reviews)
2026MayJunAugSepOct
2027MayJunAugSepOct
7 days from
£1,399 pp £1,249 pp
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Biarritz
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Biarritz & Bordeaux Cruise
2026JunSep
2027JunSep
10 days from
£2,999 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Charming Dordogne
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The Charming Dordogne
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
7 days from
£1,199 pp £1,049 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.

8 results matching: France

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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
Save £150pp
First-Class Carcassonne, Châteaux & Vineyards
4.3 stars(245 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

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

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7 days from
£2,049 pp £1,899 pp
per person
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Nice & the Cote d'AzurNice & the Cote d'AzurNice & the Cote d'AzurNice & the Cote d'AzurNice & the Cote d'Azur
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First-Class Cannes & the Côte d'Azur
4.2 stars(55 reviews)
2026AprJunAugSep
2027AprMayJunSep

Embrace the sights, scents and flavours of the French Riviera from a boutique hotel in the popular coastal town of Cannes. Admire the wonderful gardens at St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat's opulent Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and witness the time-honoured Changing of the Guards ceremony in Monaco. Tour the quaint Provençal town of Èze to enjoy exquisite...

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7 days from
£2,149 pp £1,999 pp
per person
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Lake GenevaLake GenevaLake GenevaLake GenevaLake Geneva
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Lake Geneva, Chamonix & Mont Blanc
4.3 stars(144 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

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 £1,749 pp
per person
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Girolata BayGirolata BayGirolata BayGirolata BayGirolata Bay
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First-Class Wonders of Corsica & Sardinia
2026AprMayJunAugSep

Uncover the laid-back island lifestyle on a fantastic tour of this 'forgotten corner of Europe'. Explore the glistening coast of unspoilt Corsica, a paradise of old-world French towns and hilltop villages, connected by charming train journeys through spectacular scenery. Indulge in the delicious cuisine of Sardinia, discover beautiful historic...

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12 days from
£2,999 pp £2,849 pp
per person
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Nice CarnivalNice CarnivalNice CarnivalNice CarnivalNice Carnival
First-Class Côte d'Azur & Nice Carnival
4.5 stars(44 reviews)
2027Feb

Admire the decorated floats, colourful costumes and spirited atmosphere of the captivating Nice Carnival on this rail holiday to the French Riviera. From reserved grandstand seats, bask in fantastic views of this vibrant extravaganza and explore the shimmering Côte d'Azur. Uncover the charm and history of Nice on a guided tour and watch the...

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7 days from
£1,999 pp
per person
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Beaune Beaune Beaune Beaune Beaune
Walk & Tour: Vineyards & Villages of Burgundy

Discover world-renowned wines and historic landmarks on this exceptional walking holiday in scenic Burgundy. Based in the heart of this celebrated wine-producing region, medieval Beaune is perfectly located for exploring. Experience three expertly guided walks through beautiful countryside and gleaming vineyards and savour tastings of famous...

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7 days
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NiceNiceNiceNiceNice
Glacier Express Tour & Italy, France, Spain Cruise
2027MayJul

Experience two of Switzerland's most-famous rail journeys on a GRJ escorted tour, marvelling at breathtaking panoramas and enjoying stunning alpine landscapes from the celebrated Bernina Express and Glacier Express. Soak up Matterhorn views from Zermatt and enjoy a private aperitif at Spiez Castle before a cruise across Lake Thun. Travel by rail...

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17-20 days from
£5,499 pp
per person
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Verdon Gorges Verdon Gorges Verdon Gorges Verdon Gorges Verdon Gorges
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Walk & Tour: Portraits of Provence
2026SepOct

Uncover hidden Provence on guided walks alongside emerald rivers, through stunning ravines and into otherworldly landscapes of bright oranges. From a base in the spa town of Gréoux-les-Bains, enjoy a choice of hikes revealing the unspoilt beauty of Provence - a region beloved by renowned artist Cézanne. Explore the Verdon Gorge, view Mont...

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7 days from
£2,149 pp £1,999 pp
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Our customers love our France and Classic tours
First-Class Carcassonne, Châteaux & Vineyards
27 Oct 2025
MRS. J L CABLE
5 stars
“Excellent. Exciting travel. Right balance of visits and free time. Good tour leader. Lovely hotel - and the weather was perfect.
Collected by Trustpilot
Lake Geneva, Chamonix & Mont Blanc
20 Oct 2025
Sue
5 stars
“A wonderful holiday. Great food, hotel & Tour Manager. Everything went like clockwork from start to finish. Thoroughly recommend Great Railway Journeys to anyone.
Collected by Trustpilot
First-Class Cannes & the Côte d'Azur
17 Sep 2025
M Elliott
5 stars
“This is my 4th trip with GRJ which I really enjoyed. With excellent organisation from Head Office staff through to our lovely tour manager who's knowledge of the venue's and history was super. The hotel provides a lovely breakfast, although you do have to pay for a cooked breakfast....
Collected by Trustpilot
First-Class Côte d'Azur & Nice Carnival
16/Mar
John Glasby
4 stars
“Excellent tour. Carnival is a little long- winded and train journeys are lengthy.
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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