Discoveries
Classic
Landmark
Holiday Ideas for France
Classic
(132 reviews)Classic
(33 reviews)
River Cruise
(107 reviews)Rolling hills blanketed by tantalisingly fruitful vines, opulent châteaux surrounded by manicured gardens, glamorous, azure coastlines and mouthwatering cuisine. The beauty, culture and charm of France is within easy reach on its high-speed rail network, as we explore rivers and towns that inspired world-famous artists or bask in upmarket resorts on the glistening French Riviera. Indulge in tastings of Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines, savour delicious produce at Narbonne's colourful market, and enjoy an afternoon tea in a palatial villa in St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.
France also possesses one of the most modern and efficient rail networks in Europe, and an escorted rail tour in France with Great Rail Journeys is one of the easiest and most comfortable ways in which to explore and enjoy a host of France's greatest attractions.
Find out more with a free brochure and enjoy weekly travel inspiration and offers in our e-newsletter.
River Cruise
(71 reviews)Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Romantic Rhine River from the North Sea to the Swiss Alps. As we cruise through France, Germany, and the Netherlands bound for Switzerland, we admire stunning forested valleys, charming half-timbered towns, and incredible cities along the enchanting riverbanks. Sail through the spectacular scenery of the...
Classic
Embrace the laidback island lifestyle on a fantastic tour of this 'forgotten corner of Europe'. Explore the glistening coast of unspoilt Corsica, a paradise of old-world French towns and hill-top villages, connected by charming train journeys through spectacular scenery. Indulge in the delicious cuisine of Sardinia, discover beautiful historic...
Discoveries
(283 reviews)Based in charming Les Eyzies, explore this beautiful region renowned for picturesque villages, ancient history and excellent cuisine. Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Dordogne from the village of La Roque-Gageac and discover the spectacular cliff-side pilgrimage site of Rocamadour. Delight in the sights and smells of fresh produce on market day...
Classic
(132 reviews)A destination that's inspired artists such as Vincent van Gogh, this beautiful part of France oozes history, charm and culture. Explore Provence from the papal city of Avignon and uncover the idyllic villages of L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and Gordes. Take a cruise along the Rhône and learn about its influence on the sights and tastes of the area before...
Landmark
(188 reviews)Explore enchanting Cathar castles, timeless vineyards and sun-drenched hills on an indulgent French holiday based in a five-star riverside hotel in charming Carcassonne. Stroll amongst the city's magical walled fortress on a guided tour of its medieval delights and uncover the mysterious history of the four hillside Châteaux de Lastours, before...
River Cruise
Cruise along the serene Seine River, where history, art, and natural beauty converge to create an inspiring experience. Seven nights of unparalleled luxury and comfort aboard the Amadeus Diamond begins and ends in the romantic City of Light, Paris. While sailing tranquil waters, discover the peaceful landscapes that inspired some of the world's...
River Cruise
(107 reviews)Discover the timeless elegance of France's beautiful Rhône. Join our exclusive cruise aboard the MS Amadeus Provence, where you'll uncover a rich tapestry of experiences, with a unique focus on the region's culinary prowess. Indulge in the finest Burgundy wines in Beaune, savor the gastronomic delights of Lyon, and explore the City of Popes,...
River Cruise
(208 reviews)Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Europe on this Rhine river cruise from Switzerland to Amsterdam. Experience the spectacular scenery of the majestic Rhine river, including the Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage site adorned with stunning castles, lush forests, and sprawling vineyards. Sail from Switzerland to the waters of...
River Cruise
Experience a luxurious cruise that combines France's Basque coast with the prestigious wine region of Bordeaux. Our holiday starts among the sandy beaches and delightful ocean promenade of Biarritz. We then travel on the pretty La Rhune Mountain railway as it winds its way through the Pyrenees, rising above the low clouds. Next, we swap the sea...
Classic
Embrace the sights, scents and flavours of the French Riviera from a boutique hotel in the popular coastal town of Cannes. Admire the wonderful gardens at St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat's opulent Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and witness the time-honoured Changing of the Guards ceremony in Monaco. Tour the quaint Provençal town of Èze to enjoy exquisite...
River Cruise
Explore some of the best-loved châteaux of the verdant Loire Valley, and the manor house where Leonardo da Vinci lived, then cruise the Seine, discovering the gems of Paris, Rouen and Honfleur. From our base in Blois, explore the iconic Château de Chenonceau, Leonardo da Vinci's Clos Lucé, and the historic Château de Chaumont. Then, we board the...
River Cruise
(11 reviews)Discover the gems of southwest Switzerland, staying in luxurious Montreux, then continue to Lyon for an idyllic 7-night cruise. After a three-night stay on the shimmering shores of Lake Geneva, our cruise along the elegant Rhone sees us enjoying guided tours, wine tastings, and glimpses into the soul of each destination. Explore the medieval...
At Great Rail Journeys we offer our guests a variety of escorted rail tours in France covering everything from a romantic Seine cruise to a short break in the rustic Dordogne region or a longer relaxing stay on the shores of Lake Annecy. Whichever you choose, you can be sure that our French rail breaks offer excellent value. The price of your trip covers travel to, from and within France, accommodation of a high standard, an itinerary of excursions designed to highlight the best aspects of each French destination and a selection of meals.
You'll stay in hotels that we've personally selected for their quality and value to ensure that you enjoy the best comfort, service and facilities. Where possible you'll stay in family-run hotels which we find are more relaxed and give our guests a more personal service.
You'll be escorted throughout your French train holiday by our friendly and professional Tour Manager who is on-hand whenever needed to provide assistance, answer questions and offer information and advice about the places you'll visit.
France's modern history is a story of invasions and conflicts for control. The region of Europe originally known as Gaul was ruled by Celtic tribes until the Roman Empire, under Julius Caesar, took control in 58BC. When Rome fell, Gaul was ruled by a heathen tribe - the 'Franks', who gave the country its name and its first king: Charlemagne. The monarchy continued despite an attempted invasion by the English during the 'Hundred Years War' between 1337 and 1453. They were defeated thanks to the army-rallying efforts of a young French peasant called Joan of Arc. By the seventeenth-century, ruled by King Louis XIV France had become a European superpower but a subsequent financial crisis and disillusionment with the monarchy sparked the French Revolution in 1789. The monarchy was abolished and France became the republic that it remains today.
France's climate varies with location, but is generally mild and temperate throughout the year. The north and west of the country are the coolest and experience most rainfall, whilst the Mediterranean coast enjoys the driest, warmest and sunniest weather. Spring and summer are the best times to visit anywhere in the country unless you're a snow sports enthusiast, whilst autumn is typically the wettest season.
Great Rail Journeys' tours allow you to enjoy French cuisine which is renowned for its culinary artistry, flair and flavour. Should Escargots de Bourgogne (snails in garlic butter) or cuisses de grenouille (frogs legs) not be to your taste there are countless other French classic dishes and specialities to enjoy such as baked Camembert cheese, Moules Marinières; mussels cooked in a white wine broth; Soupe à L'oignon; an onion soup traditionally served with a unique crust; Cassoulet; a popular stew of duck and beans and Bouillabaisse; a colourful stew of fish and shellfish flavoured with saffron.
03/01/2025 · By Ian Holt, Karen Overend, Sam Preece
Explore the top UNESCO World Heritage sites around the world, from breathtaking natural wonders to iconic historical landmarks. Discover these must-visit destinations with Great Rail Journeys.
Read more
26/12/2024 · By Ian Holt
To inspire your travels, Great Rail Journeys reveals our Top 10 best holiday destinations and expert tips for 2025, from luxury trains to hidden gems.
Read more
20/12/2024 · By Dave Riley, CEO
From all of us at Great Rail Journeys, we wish you a wonderful festive period. Take a look back at 2024 and get a glimpse at our new holidays for 2025.
Read more
18/11/2024 · By Karen Overend
Discover Italy’s agriturismo tradition and plan your own farm-to-table experience while exploring authentic Italian rural life with Great Rail Journeys.
Read more
