The options for summer vacations in France are extremely varied. Travelers can head to the coast, explore Paris, Ile de France, the Loire Valley and other historic areas, engage in extreme sports or visit wine regions.
Beach vacations
France, washed by seas and ocean on two sides, is home to many resorts.
Cote d’Azur
The traditional vacation destination for French and foreign tourists is the southeastern coast of France, stretching along the Mediterranean Sea to the border with Italy. The world fame of the Côte d’Azur, which received this name because of the amazing blue color of the water surface, is due to the warm sea, a variety of beaches (pebble, sand), mild climate, a large number of cultural attractions, as well as the amazing nature of Provence.
Normandy
Those who do not like the intense heat, resorts with snow-white beaches, which are located on the Atlantic coast of Normandy, are perfect for those who do not like the strong heat. Huge fame is Deauville, built especially for aristocrats who wanted to rest on the sea, but could not stand the bright sun, as well as its more democratic “twin brother” Trouville. There are also picturesque towns of Honfleur and Etretat, famous for Impressionist painters.
Biarritz
A small resort town located on the Atlantic coast near the French-Spanish border. The beaches, located by the Bay of Biscay, are characterized by pure white sand. Thanks to strong winds, Biarritz is famous among surfers, being one of the world centers of this sport.
Corsica
Fans of exotic vacations can choose to stay on the island of Corsica, the birthplace of Napoleon. This peculiar corner of France is famous for its unspoiled nature, local specialties, ancient towns and beautiful, very picturesque beaches.
Excursion vacation
Unforgettable summer vacations can be spent in historic cities and regions of France:
Paris and Ile-de-France
Even the hot weather in the French capital is easy to bear, thanks to the abundance of greenery and a large number of fountains. You can refresh yourself on the Parisian beaches, which are regularly organized by the City Hall on the banks of the Seine and the canals, as well as in the Aquaboulevard. It’s a great idea to go to Disneyland and Asterix amusement parks for the day. You can also get out to the suburban palaces of Versailles, Chantilly and Fontainebleau.
Loire Valley
Excursions to the Loire Valley will allow you to see the most famous castles of this region (there are more than 80 of them). Almost all of them are surrounded by luxurious parks, where you can spend a wonderful time sheltering from the heat.
Wigs of the Loire castles
There are also tours of vineyards and wineries in this region, which include tastings of local wines.
Alsace
Another summer vacation option is to head to Alsace to explore Strasbourg, as well as the small but surprisingly beautiful towns of Colmar, called the “Venice of the North,” and the flower-drenched ancient Reckwihr. Here you can also drive along the Alsace Wine Road and sample the local cuisine and wines made in the region.
Active vacation
Fans of extreme sports can go to Shomani and other resorts located in the French Alps. In summer here you can try your hand at rock climbing and mountaineering, go hiking with a visit to mountain villages or just stroll through the alpine meadows.
Tips
- Popular summer vacation spots are often crowded, so it’s best to book a hotel in advance. If you plan to move around the country, it is also desirable to pre-purchase rail tickets.
- When choosing accommodation, consider options not only large resort centers, but also small towns (for example – Villefranche, Mentona or Beaulieu-sur-Mer on the Côte d’Azur). Hotels there are often cheaper, in addition, there are fewer vacationers.
- Almost every French town in the summer there are colorful festivals, fairs, festivals and other events (for example, the wine festival in Bordeaux, Avignon Theatre Festival, jazz festival in Nice). When planning your trip, be sure to check out the calendar of events: it will make your vacation even more intense.
A trip to France in summer is a great option for those who want to combine a vacation with a pleasant shopping. It is in this season in all cities of the country there are large-scale sales. It is important to take into account that specific dates may vary depending on the region.
