Cheap Holidays to France

Just a hop across the English Channel, holidays to France make a fantastic short-haul choice for foodies, nature lovers, romantics, shoppers and families. Its diverse regions and sunny summers will appeal if you’re hungry for a holiday that's close to home. From its natural landscapes, rivers, pretty hilltop villages and beach towns to its dramatic mountain ranges and its super-romantic capital, France holidays have it all. Whether you want to explore the wonderful wineries in Champagne, enjoy a beach break in the French Riviera, go skiing in the Alps or discover Disney in Paris, you'll find exactly what you're looking for in this fantastic country - vive la France!

Places to Go and Things to Do

Head up the Eiffel Tower

A visit to Paris wouldn't be complete without stopping to admire the city's most famous landmark. Over 300m high, tourists can enjoy panoramic views of Paris' picturesque skyline from the top. To make your trip to the city of love as romantic as can be, why not enjoy a meal in the Tower's world-class restaurant?Get ready for delicious food and incredible views, though all this does come with a pretty hefty price tag.

See Majestic Notre Dame

Notre Dame cathedral is one of the city's most famous sights, and its elevated position makes it the perfect place to get a great photo of the city. A prime example of gothic architecture, with spectacular stained glass windows, Romanesque sculptures and a beautifully detailed interior, Notre Dame took 200 years to build, between 1163 and 1334. Book a table at La Tour d’Argent (ask for one by the window) and you can enjoy breathtaking views of the illuminated cathedral over a lunch or dinner of authentic French cuisine in the oldest restaurant in Paris.

Drink Bubbly on a River Cruise

Enjoy an elegant evening on the water as you drift down the Siene on a romantic riverboat cruise and see the Eiffel Tower and other sights from the water. You can book a candle-lit dinner cruise on the Bateaux Mouches or a sunset cruise with world-class champagne. For those who need to be a little kinder on their wallet, why not buy a hop-on-hop-off boat ticket and travel to all the must-see sights along the Seine. Whatever type of cruise you opt for, we assure you it'll be nothing short of Seine-sational!

Say Bon Appétit!

Paris is home to some of the best restaurants in the world and dining is a quintessential part of any stay in the city, but you don't have to break the budget. You'll find some fantastic French food for just a couple of euros from a humble boulangerie. Don't leave the city without biting into a freshly baked baguette, ordering a classic croque monsieur, consuming large amounts of cheese from Laurent Dubois (washed down with a glass of wine or two) and of course, checking out Paris' traditional pastries, chocolates and cakes. Dessert lovers can even embark on The Paris Chocolate and Pastry Food Tour. Gourmands can take the Paris by Mouth: Taste of The Marais walking tour.

Essential Information

Getting Around

French cities have excellent public transport networks; some, like Paris, have a metro, while others, including Nice, have tramways and great rail services. Buses also run, usually regularly and with cheap fares. Taxi stands can be found at airports and railway stations as well as all around the cities. Trains are efficient and fast in France and a great way to do more exploring, while car hire offers the ultimate freedom to travel at your own leisure.

Travelling by bus or car

There are good bus services operating in the major towns and cities of France. There are also longer-journey bus routes that run between the cities and regions but it's best to check the tourist information desks for timetables and network maps. Trains run on schedule and are one of the most convenient ways of getting around the country. Many routes, especially in the South of France, offer beautiful views.

Car hire is a great way of getting around France. There are tolls on the major roads but you can buy an electronic tag to make passing through easier. You must have a reflective jacket, warning triangle and headlamp beam deflectors in your car when you drive in France. Don't dismiss these rules as there can be on-the-spot fines. Roads are largely excellent and driving is on the right hand side.

Passports and Visas

Your passport should be valid for the duration of the stay. British citizens don’t need a visa to travel to France, or the EU. For more information and advice, visit www.fco.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/france/entry-requirements or the Foreign Office at www.fco.gov.uk/en/

Health and Safety

Pick up a free EHIC in advance, and ensure you also have suitable travel insurance. Dial 112 in emergencies – there’s an English speaking service. For more info, see www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/france/health

Vaccinations

There are no additional vaccinations currently needed for travel to France. Routine jabs should be up to date.