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Simon
Last Updated: 11 Aug 2026
With its mix of chic cities, sleepy villages, snow-tipped mountains, and sun-kissed shores, France is like a mood board for the world. In this blog, we’re exploring the heart of French culture, cuisine, and charm to see what makes the country so irresistible, and how many Avios you’ll need for British Airways reward flights from London to France’s top destinations.
Let's start with Paris. Home to world-renowned museums like the Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay, Paris is packed with artistic masterpieces, from ancient sculptures to famous Impressionist paintings. Once home to French kings and queens, the Palace of Versailles is as grand as it gets, and the artsy streets of Montmartre provide a glimpse into Parisian life.
Outside of Paris, the Loire Valley feels like stepping into a fairytale with its striking châteaux such as Chambord and Chenonceau. These architectural wonders offer a glimpse into French history and artistry, complete with opulent interiors, landscaped gardens, and fascinating stories of the kings and queens.
Heading down to the sunny Provence region, visitors will find ancient ruins in Arles and the mediaeval city of Carcassonne. In Avignon, the impressive Palace of the Popes reminds visitors of the city's historical importance. From Roman ruins to small mediaeval villages, France offers a journey through time for every history buff.
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Thanks to its amazing vineyards and great location near the ocean, Bordeaux is a food lover's dream. The city is synonymous with world-class wines, where skilled winemakers create some of the best red and white wines in the world. Don't miss trying a glass with "entrecôte Bordelaise," a delicious steak cooked in red wine sauce, or enjoy some fresh local oysters.
Bergerac is also renowned for its wine and gastronomy. Located in the Dordogne department in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, the region around Bergerac is dotted with vineyards and wineries with tastings of local varietals like Monbazillac and Bergerac Rouge.
Another destination worth exploring is Brittany. Here, the taste of the ocean can be felt through the cuisine. Visitors can sample the freshest oysters, mussels, and clams plucked straight from the Atlantic. Savour a steaming bowl of "Cotriade," a fisherman's stew bursting with seasonal seafood, or indulge in a savoury "galette complète," a buckwheat crepe filled with ham, cheese, and a fried egg. Don't forget to try "Kouign-Amann," a decadent Breton pastry made with butter, sugar, and flaky dough.
The French Alps are the best destination for those on the lookout for adventure. The area around Chambery and Grenoble is particularly famous for its breath-taking landscapes. Here, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and in the winter, some of the world's best skiing.
Corsica is another Mediterranean gem with dramatic coastlines, hidden coves, and pristine beaches. It's an island that offers a bit of everything: rugged trekking trails, fragrant maquis shrubland, and quaint hilltop villages to explore.
And then there’s the French Riviera, or Côte d'Azur which offers a different kind of Mediterranean experience with its blend of glamour and natural beauty. From the famous Promenade de la Croisette in Cannes to the beaches of Nice, there's a lively atmosphere that's hard to beat. The region is also home to charming towns and villages perched along the coastline with beautiful views.
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When it comes to the perfect city escape, it’s hard to beat Paris. The City of Lights is full of hidden gems beyond its most famous attractions. The Marais district provides a peek into the heart of Parisian culture. Here, you can explore the Place des Vosges, one of the city's oldest squares, surrounded by beautiful red brick buildings. For a more laid-back escape, the Canal Saint-Martin is perfect for a leisurely stroll along the water. Paris has a variety of dining options too, from top-tier restaurants to cosy cafes and markets with fresh food.
Marseille in the south provides an even more multicultural experience. The Le Panier district charms visitors with its colourful buildings and the buzz of its fish market. For the best vistas over Marseille and beyond, the hike up to the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica is well worth it.
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Next, let’s head further west to Toulouse, nicknamed "La Ville Rose" (The Pink City) thanks to the warm terracotta bricks used in its buildings. The central Place du Capitole and the impressive Capitole building are worth a visit. The city's historic centre has beautiful Renaissance mansions that show off its past wealth. For something different, take a boat trip along the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the evening, Toulouse's traditional brasseries are the perfect place to experience local culture and food.
And let’s not forget Montpellier, a youthful city beautifully balancing the ancient and the modern. Just a stone's throw from the Mediterranean, Montpellier’s mediaeval streets lead to contemporary architectural wonders, while its squares are full of quaint cafes and markets.
Often referred to as the "Island of Beauty," Corsica is a dream destination for beach lovers. This Mediterranean island combines rugged mountains with some of the best coastlines in France. The beaches here are secluded and beautiful, ideal for those looking to relax in a natural setting. Its coastlines are a masterclass in drama, with secret coves and beaches so pristine, you'd think they were VIP sections reserved by Mother Nature.
One of the highlights is the Plage de Palombaggia in Porto-Vecchio, known for its crystal-clear waters and fine sand framed by pine trees. For those looking for a more adventurous beach experience, the remote Plage de Saleccia near Saint-Florent is reachable via a scenic hike or a boat ride.
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Set in the heart of the French Alps, Grenoble is the perfect base for ski enthusiasts looking to explore the surrounding mountains. This city is surrounded by several ski resorts, making it an ideal destination for both beginners and experienced skiers.
One of the most renowned ski areas accessible from Grenoble is Les Deux Alpes, with a vast network of slopes suitable for all levels, including the largest skiable glacier in Europe. Another gem is Alpe d'Huez, known as the "Island in the Sun" for its sunny slopes and diverse range of runs that cater to skiers and snowboarders alike.
Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Grenoble itself is worth exploring, with its cultural scene, museums, and historical sites. The city is in a valley surrounded by mountains, with beautiful views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities year-round.
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Dreaming of the sunny beaches of Corsica is the context here, and the historic streets of Paris, or the snow-capped mountains near Grenoble, our Reward Flight Finder (RFF) can help you figure out how many Avios you'll need to make your dream trip a reality.
BA flies between London and a large number of French destinations - Bergerac, Bordeaux, Chambery, Corsica, Grenoble, Marseille, Nice, Brittany, Toulouse, Montpellier and Paris. For off-peak return Premium Economy British Airways reward flights, you’ll need 18,500 Avios plus £1 while off-peak return Business Class reward seats are available for 30,000 Avios plus £1.
Ready to say bonjour to France? Check out Reward Flight Finder (RFF) for the best British Airways reward flight options to kickstart your adventure.
While you explore our travel tips, check out Last Minute for fantastic hotel deals to complete your perfect trip. Book now and find great rates on hotels across top destinations!
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