"France is the country that invented the idea of cuisine — and has never relinquished the title."
France is the most visited country in the world, and the reasons are not difficult to understand. It has the world's greatest culinary tradition — from the three-Michelin-starred temples of Paris to the bouchons of Lyon to the markets of Provence. It has the world's finest wine regions — Burgundy, Bordeaux, Champagne, Alsace, the Rhône, and the Loire. And it has a countryside of incomparable beauty — from the lavender fields of the Luberon to the châteaux of the Dordogne to the cliffs of Normandy.
The best France itinerary combines the capital with the regions. A week in Paris, followed by a week in Provence or Burgundy, is the classic approach — and it remains the finest. The TGV makes it possible to reach Lyon in two hours, Marseille in three, and Bordeaux in two. France rewards slow travel and deep exploration; the best experiences here are found off the tourist trail, in the village markets and the family-run restaurants that have been serving the same dishes for generations.
"Burgundy — the world's finest Pinot Noir, the world's finest Chardonnay, and the world's finest gastronomy in one narrow valley."
TastesOf Editorial
At a Glance
Regions to Explore
Paris & Île-de-France
The capital and its surrounding region — the Louvre, Versailles, the palace hotels, and more Michelin stars than any city in the world. The starting point for any France itinerary, and endlessly rewarding on return visits.
Provence
Lavender fields, olive groves, and hilltop villages in the south of France — with some of the finest rosé wine in the world, extraordinary markets, and a light that has inspired painters from Cézanne to Van Gogh. The Luberon, the Alpilles, and the Camargue are all extraordinary.
Burgundy
The spiritual home of French gastronomy — a narrow strip of vineyards between Dijon and Beaune producing the world's finest Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The Route des Grands Crus, the Hospices de Beaune, and the restaurants of Dijon make this the finest food and wine region in the world.
The Dordogne
A river valley in southwest France — with prehistoric cave paintings at Lascaux, medieval châteaux at every bend, and a cuisine built on duck confit, foie gras, and black truffles. The most beautiful river valley in France.
The French Riviera
The Côte d'Azur — from Nice to Monaco — is the most glamorous coastline in Europe. The old town of Nice, the Matisse Museum, the Fondation Maeght in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, and the Grand Prix in Monaco are the highlights.
Alsace
A region on the German border — with half-timbered villages, Riesling vineyards, and a cuisine that blends French and German traditions. The Christmas markets in Strasbourg and Colmar are among the finest in Europe.
Cities We Cover
Paris
The world's most beautiful city — more Michelin stars than anywhere on earth.
Lyon
The gastronomic capital of France — bouchons, silk, and the finest traditional cuisine in the country.
Bordeaux
The wine capital of the world — extraordinary châteaux, a beautiful old city, and the finest Cabernet Sauvignon on earth.
Nice
The capital of the French Riviera — the Promenade des Anglais, the old town, and the finest socca in the world.
The Verdict
The world's greatest culinary nation — start in Paris, drive to Burgundy, and never stop eating.