From the glitzy Cote d'Azur, to the vineyards of Burgundy and the rugged snowy peaks of the Alps, France's landscape is as diverse as it is beautiful. France has boarders with 8 countries and is the world's leader in luxury goods, famous for its haute couture, fashion accessories, perfumes and cosmetics. It is the country that has won the most Nobel prizes for literature so far and produces some of the world's most famous liqueurs, such as Grand Marnier, Cointreau, Triple Sec, Mandarine Napoleon, Cognac, Armagnac, Crème de Cassis, Pastis, Chartreuse.

There is a endless choice of short or long stay holidays one can enjoy in France. Just a stones throw away from the UK, for its very easy to jump in your car and take the Eurotunnel or a ferry across to France. France is seductively romantic for those looking for that perfect Romantic getaway. Gorge yourself on the rich gourmet food and sample some of the finest wines on a gastronomy holidays as you stroll down the chic avenues of Paris or the quaint narrow streets of one of the many historic Medieval towns France has to offer.

Like the medieval Flemish city of Lille with its wonderfully quaint cobbled streets, colourful houses, elegant cafés and fine bistros. Its rich heritage and Museum of fine art will fill your days with both wonder and delight one of many city break destinations France has to offer.

Bordeaux another perfect city for a weekend break, the wine capital of France and the second most beautiful city in all of France offers an excellent dining and drinking choices as well as fine art museums. As it is largely pedestrian it is easy to walk around and absorb the ambience of the town square and market place. It is a popular choice for shopping too and if you have a car you can drive a little outside the town and explore some of the châteaux and vineyards. Hard to believe but the Bordeaux region alone has over 9,000 different châteaux. A great city break, gastronomy holiday and wine tour destination.

The region of Burgundy, to the south-east of Paris, is the Michelin Star heartland with Dijon as the region's historic capital. Snails, foie gras, frogs' legs, jambon persillé, sweetbreads, chickens and Epoisses cheese all form part of the rich cuisine that is renown in the region. Home of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes that are used to produce Burgundy's famous wines. Another A great city break, gastronomy holiday and wine tour destination.

Famous for its beach-front promenade and landmark hotels, Nice is one of the liveliest cities along the French Riviera. It may not be as glamorous as St Tropez or Monte Carlo but it has a charming old town which was originally the Medieval village, with quaint narrow streets, a breathtaking view from Castle hill. With a wonderful collection of Chagall work at Musee National Marc Chagall and a beautiful coastline it is little wonder that it is one of the most popular destinations in France. Nice is a lovely choice for a weekend getaway, a summersun holiday or family holiday destination. Its is also a popular city break destination.

Champagne's ancient Medieval town of Troyes is the capital of the Aude department. Its narrow streets, quaint hidden courtyards, Gothic churches, Renaissance’s mansions, great bistros, restaurants and shops combine to make a perfect retreat for a short break. Close by is Reims, unofficial capital of the Champagne region and home to many famous champagne houses. This historic centre boasts contemporary architecture alongside the theatrical Gothic architecture of Notre Dame. It also has a Musee Des Beaux Art which houses beautiful tapestry and art collections.

For a skiing holiday Matt our ski specialist will ensure you choose the perfect resort for your needs and France has a superb selection, with over 90 ski resorts and some of the largest ski areas in the world, there is something for everyone. Whether you want to stay in apartments, chalet or a hotel there are a wide variety or resorts across the French Alps and Pyrennees to make a perfect ski holiday. For example Val d'Isere, renowned for its Alpine World Cup events, is a very popular ski resort for the seasoned skier with superb facilities and extensive slopes. Centred around and old village it exudes rustic charm. Or, for beginners to the more advanced, La Plagne offers a wide choice to suit all levels. Made up of six high altitude resorts all interlinked by slopes and with a free shuttle bus it is a perfect family destination. The Trois Vallees is the largest ski area in the world and one of France's finest The jewel in this crown of French skiing is Courchevel, offering exclusive hotels, stylish chalets and apartments, Michelin-starred restaurants and a lively night-life, it is a mecca for skiers who enjoy the finer things in life.


For more information about holidays in France including city breaks, family holidays, driving holidays, eurocamp, gastronomy tours and wine tours call our specialist at Diplomat Travel on 020 7730 220.

General Information

Population: 67,063,000

Capital: Paris

Language: French

Religion: Catholic and Protestant, with Jewish and Muslim minorities

International dialling code: 00 33

Typical flying time: 1 hour from the UK

Visa Requirements: British passport holders do not need a Visa

Health requirements: None

Currency: Euro (All major credit cards accepted)

Tipping: Cafes and restaurants usually include a service charge, but it is customary to give a 10-15% tip for good service.

Time: GMT +1

Electricity: 220 volts (Adaptor required)

Driving: They drive on the right. National driving licences are valid in France. If you do not have a photo driving licence please carry your passport with you at all times.