France Travel Guide
Your Complete Guide to Exploring France at Your Own Pace
Why We Love France for 50+ Travelers
While our trips to Italy taught us the joy of rich culture without the rush, we anticipate finding a similar, yet unique, kind of perfection in France. We believe it’s the ideal destination for travelers who prioritize savoring experiences over checking boxes. The country’s renowned elegance and world-class cuisine, combined with its iconic historic landmarks and a focus on artistic and romantic heritage, will make it easy to immerse ourselves in culture and enjoy every moment at a comfortable pace.
The Rhythm of France
France’s rhythm is passionate, artistic, and shaped by cuisine and light. Cities feel vibrant yet graceful, while vineyard landscapes encourage you to slow down and simply take it all in. n In Paris, creativity and romance meet quiet sophistication. You can wander grand boulevards, rest in bistros, and enjoy art at your own pace. n And in Provence, the Loire Valley, or the French Riviera, time feels suspended — lavender fields, sun-drenched beaches, sea air that resets your spirit.
Paris — Art, Romance & Effortless Charm
Paris is chic, vibrant, and wonderfully walkable. Explore iconic museums, sip coffee in neighborhood bistros, and enjoy live jazz in intimate venues.
- Hotels near the Seine and central arrondissements.
- Guided walking and food tours.
- Evening river cruises perfect for travelers.
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Hotel Flanelles in Arrondissment 17
Paris, France
Hotel Flanelles offers a refined, yet relaxed experience in the heart of Paris’s 17th arrondissement, near the Champs-Élysées. It blends contemporary style with an intimate, flannel-inspired comfort, ensuring a truly serene and memorable stay. Guests enjoy elegant rooms, exceptional service, and a peaceful location, ideal for exploring the city’s main attractions. It’s your chic, cozy Parisian retreat. Discover the essence of Parisian elegance and comfort.
Hôtel Joyce –
Astotel
Paris, France
Hôtel Joyce – Astotel provides a vibrant, artistic stay in the heart of Paris’s 9th arrondissement, conveniently close to the Opéra Garnier and Grands Boulevards. Its playful, contemporary design, inspired by the spirit of travel and culture, ensures an inspiring atmosphere. Guests benefit from complimentary access to an open bar, comfortable, stylish rooms, and outstanding personalized service, making it an ideal, accessible base for all your Parisian explorations.
Le Patio
Bastille
Paris, France
Le Patio Bastille offers a surprisingly tranquil and charming stay in the dynamic 11th arrondissement of Paris, providing an urban oasis near the historic Place de la Bastille. This inviting hotel features a magnificent, secluded inner courtyard garden, which provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Guests enjoy bright, modern rooms, exceptional service, and easy access to the vibrant Marais district and major transport links. It’s your serene, centrally located Parisian haven.
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Lyon — History, Gastronomy & Effortless Charm
Lyon is rich, sophisticated, and wonderfully walkable. Explore Roman ruins and silk workshops, sip wine in traditional bouchons, and enjoy the famous Festival of Lights.
- Hotels near Vieux Lyon and the Presqu’île.
- Guided walking and food tours, including Les Halles Paul Bocuse.
- Evening cruise on the Saône and Rhône rivers perfect for travelers.
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The Fourvière
Hôtel Lyon
Lyon, France
Fourvière Hôtel, set on the historic Fourvière hill, is a Lyonnaise oasis of luxury. Established in an ancient 19th-century convent, it provides unparalleled city views and a serene tranquility. Guests are offered elegant rooms, a bistronomic restaurant, and a wellness area including an outdoor pool heated year-round. Its nearness to the Roman Theaters and the Basilica makes it an ideal start point to explore Vieux Lyon. A perfect marriage of history and contemporary style.
Hôtel Mercure
Lyon Centre – Gare Part Dieu
Lyon, France
Hôtel Mercure Lyon Centre offers a comfortable, modern stay right in the heart of Lyon’s vibrant Presqu’île district, providing easy access to Place Bellecour and the historic Old Town. This prime location is steps away from major shopping avenues, theatres, and the city’s restaurants. The hotel features contemporary rooms, a relaxed lounge bar, and close to transport links, ideal for both leisure and business travelers seeking central convenience and quality service in Lyon.
Mercure Lyon Centre Beaux Arts
Lyon, France
Mercure Lyon Centre Beaux Arts is perfectly situated in the UNESCO-listed Presqu’île, directly opposite the Musée des Beaux-Arts and near the Opéra. This hotel, housed within a magnificent 19th-century building, offers a classically inspired atmosphere. Guests benefit from sophisticated, air-conditioned rooms, a delightful breakfast service, and access to the city’s cultural and shopping hubs, making it a fantastic choice for travelers seeking prestige and central convenience in Lyon.
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Comfort Meets Culture
Elegance here means artistry, pleasure, and tradition. As we’ve grown older, we’ve come to value those qualities deeply.
Hotels feel chic and intimate. Classic dishes are served with pride — steak frites, rich onion soup, perfect croissants, and pastries enjoyed with slow morning coffee.
The French appreciate small pleasures — a wine pairing, a historic view, a quiet moment — and it’s infectious.
Moments That Stay With You
Relish the experience and the local traditions.
Seine River Gourmet Dinner
& Sightseeing Cruise
Paris, France
A relaxing Seine River cruise is essential for Parisian first-timers. Glide past iconic landmarks as lights come to life along the waterfront. Admire the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Musée d’Orsay from a unique waterside perspective. Choose from simple sightseeing commentary cruises or upgrade for a romantic gourmet dinner with Champagne. It’s an affordable, memorable way to experience Paris’s beauty and romance. Book for an afternoon of tranquility or a magical evening.
Versailles Palace and Gardens Tour from Paris
Paris, France
Step outside the city to Versailles for a full-day immersive study in royal luxury. This guided tour includes reserved entry to Louis XIV’s stunning and amazing Palace of Versailles, allowing you to skip major lines and explore the Hall of Mirrors and royal apartments. Afterward, wander through Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet and the vast, ornate Palace Gardens. You can take an optional bike tour and enjoy a lunch. This is a fantastic way to see these UNESCO-listed iconic places effortlessly from Paris.
Mont Saint-Michel Day Trip from Bayeux
Mont Saint-Michel, France
Embark on a captivating day trip to Mont Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of France’s most iconic landmarks. This tour typically departs from Bayeux, offering comfortable transport to the island commune. Explore its medieval abbey, winding streets, and stunning bay views. Learn about its rich history and unique tidal phenomena. It’s an unforgettable journey to a breathtaking architectural marvel, providing a deep dive into French heritage and picturesque Normandy scenery.
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