This year marks the 100th anniversary of Claude Monet’s death, commemorating one of France’s most influential artists and a founding figure of Impressionism. From the coastal towns of Normandy to the sunlit shores of the Mediterranean, Monet’s life unfolded across many regions of France, each leaving a distinct mark on his work.
Category : France
From Louis I to Louis XIX, A Guide to the Many King Louis
Who was the King Louis who was sent to the guillotine? Which King Louis had the Château de Versailles built? Which king was named Saint Louis? With so many different King Louis, it’s hard to keep them all straight. But each ruler has his impact on the French people and their history. Here’s a brief guide to the many different King Louis and how you can trace their footsteps on your next trip to France.
Your Guide to Paris’ 3rd Arrondissement
Paris’ 3rd arrondissement is one of the capital’s most quietly captivating neighborhoods. Known for its creative energy and understated elegance, it offers a lived-in, authentic side of the city that feels both historic and refreshingly current. Independent boutiques, café terraces, and cultural institutions are all common. And they’re woven into streets lined with centuries-old architecture, creating an atmosphere that invites exploration.
The Perfect French Riviera Honeymoon Itinerary
Dress fitting? Check. Vows written? Yes. Rehearsal dinner organized? Bingo. You might have all the logistics nailed down for your wedding, but planning your honeymoon has been on the back burner. At French Side Travel, we’re experts at crafting luxury travel suited to your honeymoon wishlist. France is full of honeymoon-worthy destinations, but one of our coups de coeur is the French Riviera. Year-long sunshine and crystal blue sea, vibrant cities and paradisal villages – need we say more? Whether you and your spouse plan to relax in a beach chair seaside or lose count of your steps in a medieval village, the perfect honeymoon awaits. We’re sharing some of our favorite destinations and activities to help you choose a romantic French Riviera honeymoon itinerary.
How to Spend Valentine’s Day in the City of Love
Paris has long been synonymous with romance, making it the ultimate destination for Valentine’s Day. From candlelit dinners drifting along the Seine to browsing some of the world’s finest jewelry, flowers, and perfumes, and from cruising illuminated streets to sipping champagne beneath glowing monuments, the City of Love invites couples to savor every moment of this special holiday.
Our Clients’ Favorite Experiences in 2025
From Paris to Provence, Bordeaux to the Alps, our clients discovered the beauty of France this past year. In 2025, French Side Travel organized hundreds of trips across France, but some experiences rose to the top as guest favorites. We wanted to look back on our client trips from the past year and share some of the top experiences. At French Side Travel, each trip is unique and adapted to your needs and wishes. We’ve rounded up our clients’ favorite visits, experiences, private tours and hotels. And perhaps these past trips will inspire your future adventures with us in 2026.
10 Expositions You Can’t Miss in Paris in 2026
Paris never stops reinventing itself, and 2026 promises to be an inspiring cultural season. From major retrospectives to immersive and family-friendly exhibitions, the city invites visitors to explore art, fashion, photography, music, literature, and much more through meaningful experiences.
13 Best Adventurous Activities in France
For many, vacation equates to laying low and relaxing. But for others, it means embarking on exhilarating adventures. And in France, both easygoing and active travelers will find something suited to their tastes. If you’re an adrenaline seeker on the hunt to move and groove during your trip to France, we’re here to help. Have your breath stolen on a hike in the Pyrénées. Kayak through the blue waters off the coast of Corsica. Hold on tight as you zipline through the forest near Annecy. No matter your pick, you’re sure to get your heart rate up. From hiking to surfing, snow shoeing to skiing, we compiled the best adventurous activities in France.
Experiences in France for Every Type of Traveler in 2026
Planning a trip to France and looking for activities beyond typical walking tours and sightseeing? French Side Travel is launching several exciting new experiences for 2026 that are thoughtfully designed to suit every type of traveler.
Whether you’re a foodie, a creative spirit, an adventurer, a history enthusiast, or traveling as a family, we’ve curated a selection of immersive experiences that go beyond the ordinary. Each one is crafted to help you discover France in a more personal, memorable way.
Where to Spend Christmas in France
Snuggled up under the blankets in front of the Christmas tree at home is a great way to spend Christmas. But an even better way to experience the holiday season is discovering yuletide magic in France. Each region has its own special traditions and events, and no matter your interests, Christmas in France is a fantasy. From sipping hot chocolate at the Christmas markets or admiring the lights adorning historic castles, France transforms into an even more magical destination during the winter season. Both Paris and the French Alps are popular choices for the Christmas season, but these destinations are only the beginning. From the Loire Valley to Alsace, here are our favorite places to spend Christmas in France as well as festive activities to liven your stay.
A Tale of Two Winters: Paris and the French Alps
In Paris, rainy, windswept days feel warmer with chocolat chaud in iconic cafés and chestnuts roasting at the marchés de Noël. Meanwhile, in the French Alps, vacationers trade their skis for vin chaud by the fire after a day on the slopes, settling into their cozy chalets. Across the country, countless French holiday traditions await!
11 French Holiday Traditions You Haven’t Heard Of
The calendar flips to December, and in many countries, families are putting up the tree, sipping hot chocolate and bundling up. There are a wealth of similarities of Christmas traditions between different countries. But there’s no doubt that each country has its own set of customs and specialities — and France is no different. From its traditional desserts to its decorations, each of France’s regions comes alive for this time of year. Here are 11 French holiday traditions you may not have heard of, including our staff’s favorite ones.