France is a country with a rich culture, history, and diverse regions. The 18 regions of France each have their own unique character, from the picturesque villages of Provence to the bustling metropolis of Île-de-France. The purpose of this blog is to explore the unique culture, history, and attractions of each region, and to provide readers with a comprehensive guide to planning a luxury tour of France.
In this blog, we will begin by providing an overview of the regions of France, including the number of departments and capital cities for each region, as well as the main industries and points of interest. We will then delve into detailed information on each region, including information on the sights and activities that visitors can enjoy, such as historical landmarks, natural wonders, and local cuisine. We will also provide information on the best times to visit each region, depending on the weather and local events. Special attention will be given to charming small towns and villages. Finally, we will conclude with a recap of the main points covered in the blog and encourage readers to visit France and explore the regions for themselves. So, let’s begin our journey through the beautiful regions of France!
Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes is located in the south-east of France and is known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich history. The region is made up of 8 departments, with Lyon as its capital city. The main industries in the region include agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. Notable attractions include the Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d’Auvergne and the Château de Murol.
The region also offers delicious local cuisine and a variety of wines from the Beaujolais, Côtes du Rhône, and Savoie regions. The best time to visit is during the spring and fall and visitors can enjoy local events and festivals throughout the year. Le Puy-en-Velay, Saint-Etienne, Annecy are charming small towns and villages worth visiting as well.
Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Bourgogne-Franche-Comté is in eastern France, known for its picturesque villages, historic landmarks, and delicious local cuisine. The region is made up of four departments, with Dijon as its capital city. The main industries in the region include agriculture, tourism, and wine production. Some attractions include the Palace of the Dukes and Estates of Burgundy, the Beaune Hospices and the Château de la Rochepot.
The region is known for its delicious local cuisine, such as escargot, coq au vin, and mustard. The best time to visit is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the landscapes are at their most beautiful. There are also a variety of local events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Fête des Meuniers, the festival of Saint Vincent and the Fête des Vignerons. The charming small towns and villages, such as Noyers-sur-Serein, Flavigny-sur-Ozerain, and Château-Chalon, are worth visiting too.
Bretagne
Bretagne is located in the northwest part of France and is known for its beautiful coastal landscapes, rich history, and delicious local cuisine. The region is made up of 4 departments, with Rennes as its capital city. The main industries in the region include agriculture, tourism, and fishing. Notable attractions include the famous Mont Saint-Michel, the Carnac stones and the Nantes-Brest canal. The region also offers delicious local cuisine such as the famous crêpes and cider.
Weather permitting, the best time to visit Lorient is during the spring, summer, and fall. You can also enjoy local events and festivals throughout the year. Some of the attractions to visit in Lorient include the gardens and landscapes, small towns and villages, and events like the Fêtes de la Saint-Jean, the Festival Interceltique de Lorient, and the Fêtes de la Saint-Vincent.
Corse
Corse is an island located in the Mediterranean Sea, and it is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning landscapes. The region is made up of 2 departments, with Ajaccio as its capital city. The main industries in the region include agriculture, fishing, and tourism. Notable attractions include the Calanques de Piana, the Scandola Nature Reserve and the Grotte de Palais. The region is full of delicious local cuisine, such as Corsican charcuterie and figatellu. The best time to visit is in the summer when the weather is warm and sunny and the beaches are at their most beautiful. There are also a variety of local events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Fiera di a Castagna, the Fiera di u Vinu, and the Fiera di u Caprincolu.
Centre-Val de Loire
The Centre-Val de Loire region of central France is known for its beautiful architecture, picturesque landscapes, and rich history. The region is made up of six departments, with Orléans as its capital. The main industries in the region include agriculture, tourism, and wine production. Some of the notable attractions in the region include the Chateau de Chambord, the Chateau de Cheverny, and the Château de Blois. The region also offers delicious local cuisine such as the famous tarte tatin and rillettes a traditional dish made with pork. The best time to visit is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the gardens and landscapes are at their best. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of local events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Festival d’Orléans, the Fêtes Jeanne d’Arc and the Festival Musique Baroque. The charming small towns and villages such as Amboise, Tours, and Sancerre are worth visiting as well.
Grand Est
Grand Est, located in northeastern France, is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and delicious local cuisine. The region is made up of 12 departments, with Strasbourg as its capital city. The main industries in the region include agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. Strassbourg is also well-known for its Christmas markets. The region is rich in delicious local cuisine, such as the famous choucroute and tarte flambée. The best time to visit is in the spring, summer, and fall, when the weather is mild and the gardens and landscapes are at their best. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of local events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Fêtes de la Meuse, the Festival Musique Baroque, and the Festival de Musique de Colmar. The charming small towns and villages, such as Colmar, Mulhouse, and Nancy, are worth visiting as well.
Hauts-de-France
Hauts-de-France is located in the northern part of France and is known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and delicious local cuisine. The region is made up of 8 departments, with Lille as its capital city. The main industries in the region include agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. Notable attractions include the Lille Grand Palais, the Louvre-Lens and the famous Belle Epoque resorts of Le Touquet and Hardelot. The region also offers delicious local cuisine such as the famous carbonnade flamande and moules-frites. The best time to visit is during the spring, summer and fall when the weather is mild and the gardens and landscapes are at their best. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of local events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Lille Carnival, the Lille-Flandres Film Festival and the Fêtes de la Braderie. The charming small towns and villages such as Saint-Omer, Cassel and Boulogne-sur-Mer are worth visiting as well.
Île-de-France
Île-de-France is located in the northern part of France and is known for its rich history, cultural attractions and delicious local cuisine. The region is made up of 8 departments, with Paris as its capital city. The main industries in the region include finance, tourism, and culture. Notable attractions include the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum and the famous Champs-Élysées. The region also offers delicious local cuisine such as the famous escargots and crème brûlée. The best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the gardens and landscapes are at their best. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of local events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Paris Fashion Week, the Paris Jazz Festival, and the Nuit Blanche. The charming small towns and villages such as Versailles, Saint-Germain-en-Laye, and Vincennes are worth visiting as well.
Normandie
Normandie is located in the northern part of France and is known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and delicious local cuisine. The region is made up of 5 departments, with Rouen as its capital city. The main industries in the region include agriculture, tourism, and culture. Notable attractions include the famous D-Day landing beaches, the Rouen Cathedral and the Monet’s garden in Giverny. The region also offers delicious local cuisine such as the famous moules-frites and tarte Normande. The best time to visit is during the spring, summer and fall when the weather is mild and the gardens and landscapes are at their best. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of local events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Fêtes Johanniques in Rouen, the Festival Musique Baroque in Bayeux and the Festival Musique in Honfleur. The charming small towns and villages such as Etretat, Honfleur, and Deauville are worth visiting as well.
Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Nouvelle-Aquitaine is located in the southwestern part of France and is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and delicious local cuisine. The region is made up of 12 departments, with Bordeaux as its capital city. The main industries in the region include agriculture, tourism, and wine production. Notable attractions include the famous Dune du Pilat, the Arcachon Bay, and the Bordeaux Wine route. The region also offers delicious local cuisine such as the famous duck confit and oysters. The best time to visit is during the spring, summer and fall when the weather is mild and the gardens and landscapes are at their best. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of local events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Fêtes de Bayonne, the Jazz in Marciac and the Fêtes de la Saint-Vincent. The charming small towns and villages such as Saint-Emilion, Sarlat-la-Canéda and Périgueux are worth visiting as well.
Occitanie
Occitanie is located in the southern part of France and is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and delicious local cuisine. The region is made up of 13 departments, with Toulouse as its capital city. The main industries in the region include agriculture, tourism, and wine production. Notable attractions include the famous Pont du Gard, the Carcassonne castle and the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum. The region also offers delicious local cuisine such as the famous cassoulet and duck confit. The best time to visit is during the spring, summer and fall when the weather is mild and the gardens and landscapes are at their best. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of local events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Feria de Nîmes, the Jazz in Marciac and the Fêtes de la Saint-Vincent. The charming small towns and villages such as Albi, Millau, and Collioure are worth visiting as well.
Pays de la Loire
Pays de la Loire is located in the western part of France and is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and delicious local cuisine. The region is made up of 5 departments, with Nantes as its capital city. The main industries in the region include agriculture, tourism, and culture. Notable attractions include the famous Château des ducs de Bretagne, the Le Puy du Fou and the Nantes Machines de l’île. The region also offers delicious local cuisine such as the famous cider and seafood platters. The best time to visit is during the spring, summer and fall when the weather is mild and the gardens and landscapes are at their best. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of local events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Fêtes de la Saint-Jean, the Festival Musique Baroque in Nantes and the Fêtes de la Saint-Vincent. The charming small towns and villages such as Ancenis, Saint-Nazaire, and La Baule are worth visiting as well.
Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur is located in the southeastern part of France and is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and delicious local cuisine. The region is made up of 8 departments, with Marseille as its capital city. The main industries in the region include agriculture, tourism, and culture. Notable attractions include the famous Calanques, the Verdon Gorges and the Le Château d’If. The region also offers delicious local cuisine such as the famous bouillabaisse and socca. The best time to visit is during the spring, summer and fall when the weather is mild and the gardens and landscapes are at their best. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of local events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Fêtes de la Saint-Jean, the Festival Musique Baroque in Aix-en-Provence and the Fêtes de la Saint-Vincent. The charming small towns and villages such as Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Gordes, and Èze are worth visiting as well.
Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe is an overseas department and region of France located in the Caribbean Sea. It is known for its beautiful beaches, lush tropical landscapes, and unique Creole culture. The main industries in the region include agriculture, tourism and fishing. Notable attractions include the famous Basse-Terre volcano, the Les Saintes islands, and the Pointe-à-Pitre city. The region also offers delicious local cuisine such as the famous colombo and accras. The best time to visit is during the winter and spring when the weather is mild and the gardens and landscapes are at their best. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of local events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Fêtes de la Saint-Pierre, the Fêtes de la Musique and the Fêtes des Cuisines. The charming small towns and villages such as Sainte-Anne, Saint-François and Anse-Bertrand are worth visiting as well.
Martinique
Martinique is also an overseas department and region of France located in the Caribbean Sea. Known for its beautiful beaches, lush tropical landscapes, and unique Creole culture. The main industries in the region include agriculture, tourism and fishing. Notable attractions include the famous Mount Pelée volcano, the Fort de France, and the Anse Cafard Slave Memorial. The region also offers delicious local cuisine such as the famous acras and colombo de taro. The best time to visit is during the winter and spring when the weather is mild and the gardens and landscapes are at their best. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of local events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Fêtes des Cuisines, the Fêtes de la Musique, and the Fêtes des Fleurs. The charming small towns and villages such as Saint-Pierre, Le Vauclin, and Le François are worth visiting as well.
Guyane
Guyane is an overseas department and region of France located in South America. It is known for its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and unique biodiversity. The main industries in the region include agriculture, tourism, and mining. Notable attractions include the famous Kaw swamp, the îles du Salut, and the Cacao market. The region also offers delicious local cuisine such as the famous cassave and rougail saucisse. The best time to visit is during the dry season, which is from June to August, when the weather is mild and the gardens and landscapes are at their best. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of local events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Fêtes de la Musique, the Fêtes des Cuisines and the Fêtes des Fleurs. The charming small towns and villages such as St-Laurent-du-Maroni, Cayenne, and Kourou are worth visiting as well.
La Réunion
La Réunion is an overseas department and region of France located in the Indian Ocean. It is known for its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and unique biodiversity. The main industries in the region include agriculture, tourism, and fishing. Notable attractions include the famous Piton de la Fournaise volcano, the Cirque de Cilaos and the îlet de la Possession. The region also offers delicious local cuisine such as the famous cari and rougail saucisse. The best time to visit is during the winter and spring when the weather is mild and the gardens and landscapes are at their best. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of local events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Fêtes de la Saint-Paul, the Fêtes de la Musique and the Fêtes des Cuisines. The charming small towns and villages such as St-Denis, St-Pierre and St-André are worth visiting as well.
Mayotte
Mayotte is an overseas department and region of France located in the Indian Ocean, east of mainland Africa. It is known for its beautiful beaches, lush tropical landscapes, and unique culture. The main industries in the region include agriculture, tourism, and fishing. Notable attractions include the famous Dzaoudzi, the Plage de Sable Blanc and the Parc National de la Réserve de la Niaouly. The region also offers delicious local cuisine such as the famous lambi and boulettes de riz. The best time to visit is during the winter and spring when the weather is mild and the gardens and landscapes are at their best. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of local events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Fêtes de la Musique, the Fêtes des Cuisines, and the Fêtes de la Saint-Paul. The charming small towns and villages such as Mamoudzou, Sada, and Kawéni are worth visiting as well.
Planning A Tour of France’s Regions
Planning a tour of France’s regions can be an exciting and rewarding experience. With 18 unique regions to choose from, each with its own distinct culture, history, and attractions, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go and what to see. Here are some tips to help you plan your tour of France’s regions:
- Decide on your priorities: Before you start planning, think about what you want to get out of your trip. Are you interested in history, culture, food, nature, or a combination of these? Are you looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure? Knowing your priorities will help you narrow down your options and make the most of your time.
- Research the regions: Once you have an idea of what you want to see, research the different regions of France to find out which ones best align with your interests. Take note of the main attractions and activities in each region, as well as the best time to visit.
- Make a rough itinerary: Based on your research, make a rough itinerary of the regions you want to visit and the activities you want to do. Keep in mind that France is a large country and traveling between regions can take time, so make sure to factor in transportation and allow enough time to fully explore each place.
- Book accommodation in advance: France is a popular tourist destination and accommodation can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Book your accommodation in advance to ensure you have a place to stay.
- Consider hiring a tour guide: Hiring a tour guide can be a great way to learn about the history, culture, and local customs of each region. They can also help you navigate the transportation system, avoid crowds, and make the most of your time.
- Planning local transport: Depending on which region you’re planning on travelling to, local transportation can vary heavily.
Of course, if you’d like help planning any of these aspects of your trip, simply get in touch with our experts below by filling out the form here.
Request Your Complimentary Tour Itinerary From The Experts
France is a diverse and beautiful country with 18 unique regions, each with its own culture, history, and attractions. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, nature, or a combination of these, there’s something for everyone in France. Planning your tour of the regions can be overwhelming, but by deciding on your priorities, researching the regions, making a rough itinerary, booking accommodation in advance, and considering hiring a tour guide, you can make the most of your time and fully experience the beauty of France.
Or simply get in touch with our team below to request a completely complimentary tour itinerary filled with suggestions for your time in France!
