Our picks in France

Where to Stay
Just outside Cannes in the French Riviera is Las Mas Candille, a unique five-star luxury resort. The hotel is a relaxed gem set amidst 40,000-square-metres of parkland and includes a delightful Shisheido Qi spa, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and the ideal jumping off point to explore both the sea and the sweeping countryside of Provence.

Domaine des Hauts de Loire is a country getaway in the heart of the Loire Valley. This lakeside chateau between Blois and Amboise features outstanding locally-sourced cuisine and activities like golf, swimming, and hiking. Given its location on the Wine Route, it’s not surprising that the Vouvray and Saumur wines are superb.

The Chateau de Fines Roches is actually a castle built in the middle of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyards in Avignon. In addition to deluxe accommodations, guests can take advantage of offerings such as cookery school and taste local wines in an enchanting atmosphere.

Situated in Anjou is the Chateau des Briottieres, an 18th-century family château in the Loire Valley that caters to guests’ every whim. The onsite swimming pool and 50 hectacre, English-style park; a host of nearby golf courses; outdoor activities; and tours of castles and heritage sites are part of the draw.

For more hotels, visit our Paris Hotels page »

Where to Eat
The restaurant at Le Petit Nice is helmed by Gérald Passédat, called the “king of fish” for both his interest and his expertise with it. The restaurant has received a remarkable three Michelin stars for his spectacular dishes (such as his bouille-abaisse, which has earned a cult-like following) and extravagant desserts.

Christian Etienne in Avignon is a restaurant that doesn’t skimp on quality of cuisine or atmosphere. Termed the “Pope of Avignon cooking,” the restaurant’s eponymous owner presents exquisite fare and is known for hooks like his seven-course tomato menu that will convert you to “Christian”-ity for sure.

La Côte St. Jacques in the Burgandy town of Joigny is worth the drive. This three-Michelin-starred restaurant features a delightful waterside ambience; attentive service; and an inventive menu with delicacies such as crunchy bonbons of brown snails in virtual escargot butter.

Visit the Dining page for more ideas and advice on the best restaurants in Paris »

Where to Go
Luxury perfumes are one of the many industries for which France is known, so a trip to the country isn’t complete with a stop in the southern town of Grasse—known as the perfume capital of the world. Take guided tours of the many parfumeries, and then stop in the gift shops to pick up a scented souvenir.

The Champagne region in northern France is, of course, home to the bubbly stuff that completes celebrations and christens ships. The town of Epernay includes the avenue de Champagne, referred to by Winston Churchill as “the most drinkable street in the world.” Here you’ll find maison after maison (most notably Moët et Chandon), where you can tour the cellars and taste the champagnes.

Arguably second only to Paris in terms of glamour, St. Tropez on the Côte d’Azur is home to beautiful people, beautiful beaches, and endless beach-side restaurants and chic bars. Dress is, ahem, a bit brief on many beaches, but this exciting area has an unending supply of fun for travellers who want a little excitement in their holiday.

For a comprehensive guide to 'must-see' places in Paris, visit our Explore page »

Where to Shop
Serious shoppers shouldn’t miss one of Europe’s largest commercial districts, located between rue Victor Hugo and rue de la République in Lyon. Here you’ll find high-end shops and up-market chain stores. As a bonus, the Auguste Comte quarter is just steps away, offering almost 100 antique, art, and home furnishing shops.

Aix has some of the best shopping in Provence. Get lost in the meandering streets of Vieille Ville to find top-tier designer clothes, or opt for the high-end markets, where you’ll find superb delicacies like rare olive oils, excellent produce, and exclusive collectibles.

Rue de la Tour is Marseilles’ edgy downtown shopping centre, where the city’s funky yet elegant take on fashion and culture comes together. Diable Noir—with its wide selection of evening wear—can be found here, as well as independent boutiques with one-of-a-kind creations.

Our Shopping page has lots more advice on the best places to shop in Paris »

What to Do
When in Lyon, make a point to stop by the Halles de Lyon-Paul Bocuse, a prestigious market that’s been in existence since 1859. In 2006, Les Halles underwent a complete renovation and was renamed in honour of the region’s most famous chef, Paul Bocuse, who regularly shops the market for everything from cheese to cooked meats.

The Cours Saleya Flower Market in Nice is a flower lover’s ultimate fantasy and a “must” experience when visiting the city. You may never again see so many blooms in one place, though you have to get up early to get the full picture of riotous colours and delightful produce.

If history holds appeal, you won’t get much more historic than the famous stone formations at Carnac in Brittany. These rows of approximately 2,000 stones (think Stonehenge, but more ancient) predate even the Great Pyramids in Egypt and are the most notable prehistoric site on the continent.

Check out the Events page for what's coming up over the next couple of months »