France History Self-Drive Tours

French heritage doesn't need to be advertised. With churches, castles, manors, mansions, abbeys, and former battle sites from world wars, history lovers will have more than enough to learn about and keep them busy on one of our France history tours.

We'll help you immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of French history. From ancient Roman ruins to majestic cathedrals, opulent castles to centuries-old buildings, and help from a private tour guide if you prefer, you'll discover the fascinating stories that have shaped France. Our captivating self-guided history tours of France will help reveal the hidden gems and iconic landmarks that make France a favorite destination for history enthusiasts.

Castles: Tales of Nobility, Religion and Intrigue

Discover the stories of nobility and intrigue as you explore the splendid castles that dot the French landscape. The fairytale-like Château de Chambord in the Loire Valley will transport you to the Renaissance era, while the medieval fortress of Carcassonne will ignite your imagination with its formidable walls. Discover the opulence of the Palace of Versailles or the Palace of the Popes in Avignon, or journey to the picturesque. And don't miss the Château de Beynac in Dordogne, a majestic fortress nestled on a hilltop, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and a glimpse into the medieval history of the area.

Beynac Castle in green surroundings in Dordogne
Beynac Castle in Dordogne © Pixabay

Churches: Marvel at these Architectural Splendors

France has many beautiful churches, showcasing architectural wonders that span centuries. Admire the Gothic masterpiece of Notre-Dame de Paris, immerse yourself in the ethereal beauty of Sainte-Chapelle, renowned for its stunning stained glass windows that create a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of colors, or head south to Provence and explore the Chapelle du Rosaire, adorned with original artwork and exquisite stained glass windows by Henri Matisse, who found inspiration in this charming town during his time there.

We know the most beautiful churches to visit in each place you visit, including many that are away from the typical tourist trails.

Cathedrals: Awe-Inspiring Divine Grandeur

We would love to help you discover France's magnificent cathedrals. The grandeur of Reims Cathedral in the Champagne region, where French kings were once crowned, will leave you stunned. We also recommend a visit to beautiful Amiens Cathedral in the Somme region, the largest Gothic cathedral in France. Or you may admire the elegance of Strasbourg Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site that stands as a testament to the region's rich architectural heritage.

Centuries-Old Buildings: Witness Living History

Wander through the streets of France and encounter centuries-old buildings that have stood the test of time. Explore the medieval hospices of Beaune in Burgundy, stroll along the charming canals of Colmar, Alsace, lined with well-preserved half-timbered houses, or wander the narrow alleyways of Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, where ancient stone buildings stand by renowned vineyards.

Tranquil Abbeys

We will help you find some tranquility in the serene abbeys scattered throughout France. The ethereal beauty of Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey rising from its rocky islet in Normandy will leave you awe-inspired. We'll advise you where to take the best photos and how to avoid the tourist crowds.

In beautiful Provence, you may stop by at Abbaye de Senanque, surrounded by lavender fields. In the fascinating region of Brittany, we'll guide you to an ancient monastery with a rich history dating back to the 5th century, nestled in lush greenery and overlooking the Bay of Brest.

On the French Riviera, escape the crowds of Cannes by taking a short boat trip to Abbaye de Lérins on the picturesque Mediterranean island of Saint-Honorat. You'll stroll through serene gardens and vineyards, and discover their monastic traditions while enjoying breathtaking views.

Senanque Abbey behind a lavender field in Provence
Senanque Abbey in Provence © Pixabay

Roman Ruins: Echoes of an Ancient Civilization

France has some remarkably well-preserved Roman ruins. These include amphitheater in Nîmes and the Roman theater and Les Alyscamps necropolis in the ancient city of Arles. You'll love the stunning Pont du Gard, a majestic Roman aqueduct spanning the Gardon River, and you may even enjoy kayaking under the bridge, if you like.

.We'll also help you discover some Roman remains off the beaten path, in gorgeous little villages that most tourists don't know about.

World War Battle Sites: Remembrance and Reflection

Some travelers are interested in a World War history tour of France, so if this interests you, we can help you visit some former World War battle sites with expert private guides.

Verdun, where one of the bloodiest battles in history took place, stands as a poignant memorial, with military cemeteries, well-preserved trenches, and ruins from destroyed villages. Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery and Memorial is the biggest American military cemetery in Europe and may be of interest to American travelers. 

You may also walk in the footsteps of soldiers at the Somme WWI battlefields, where history unfolded on a tragically vast scale. We can also help you explore the Normandy landing beaches, where Allied forces made their historic D-Day landings toward the end of World War II.

Unveil the Mysteries of French History with Us

Our history trips to France will take you on an unforgettable journey through time, always based on your particular interests. The expert guides we work with will bring the stories of each site to life, with fascinating narratives that will deepen your understanding and appreciation of our heritage.

We tailor every aspect of your tour to your preferences, with guidance from your unique France Just For You guidebook and our preferred smartphone apps. And of course, the France Just For You team are always at the end of the phone if you need anything during your trip.

Let us plan your unique self-drive itinerary that will take you to the best of France's hidden historical gems.

loire valley castles

We also understand that there is such a thing as "too much" of one thing.

We plan the daily suggested itineraries so our travelers can get "a bit of everything" they like and won't feel bored.

 

Our self guided tours for history lovers

Duration
13 days
Price
US$ 3980
Region
in Carcassonne, Basque Country & Dordogne

Explore the South West of France: fortresses clinging to the cliffs in the Cathar Country and Dordogne, many “most beautiful villages of France”, and a very rich and unique gastronomy. This is where to experience the authentic France.

France History Tours
Gourmet Food Tours
Countryside Tours
Duration
13 days
Price
US$ 3610
Region
in Basque Country, Carcassonne & Provence

This unique self-drive itinerary will have you cross the South of France from its Western coast in the Basque Country to beautiful Provence, with its cicadas and lavender fields.

France Wine Tasting Tours
France History Tours
Countryside Tours
Duration
1 day
Price
US$ 550
Region
in Normandy

Get immersed into the Battle of Normandy and Bayeux history. How To Get There This Day Tour starts in Bayeux. From Paris, you can take a direct train. Bayeux Old City Bayeux may not be well known compared to Omaha Beach but the city has a lot to interest travelers. We plan for you to walk around Bayeux old city in the morning. We will provide a detailed map and information: restaurants, special shops, streets you don’t want to miss. You will also see the famous Bayeux Tapestry which is a beautiful testimony of the Middle Ages and William the Conqueror history. The WWII Landing Sites In the …

France History Tours
Duration
1 day
Price
US$ 550
Region
in Dordogne

Discover Dordogne’s must sees and hidden beauties in a day from Sarlat. How To Get There This day tour starts from Sarlat. From Bordeaux, you may take a train or bus to Sarlat (about 1hr30). Dordogne is one of our favorite regions of France and we like to have our travelers see this area through our insiders’ eyes.

France History Tours
French Towns & Villages Tours
Duration
1 day
Price
US$ 680
Region
in Normandy

Spend a memorable day exploring the mythical Mont Saint Michel! How to get there This tour starts in Avranches, near Mont Saint Michel. You may take a train or a bus from Paris. If you stay in the area, we may also meet you directly in Mt St Michel parking lots. Mont Saint Michel is one of the most visited sites in France and many travelers are caught in the crowds. We will plan your day for you to enjoy this unique site at its best. ppen in the morning or in the afternoon.

France History Tours
Countryside Tours
Duration
1 day
Price
US$ 315
Region
in Loire Valley

How to Get There If you are already in the Loire Valley, we can plan your day from your accommodation. If you are in Paris, you may take a 1 hour high speed train to Tours train station. For this special day, we plan for you to get an overview of the diversity of the Loire Valley.

France Wine Tasting Tours
France History Tours
Duration
13 days
Price
US$ 3840
Region
in Dordogne, Carcassonne & Provence

Experience medieval France in three of the richest heritage regions in the South of France.

France History Tours
Countryside Tours
Duration
10 days
Price
US$ 3370
Region
in Paris, Burgundy & Loire Valley

Discover French gastronomy in three regions famous the world over for their food and wines. Burgundy and the Loire Valley are actually arguing about where Coq au Vin was first invented. Burgundy is famous for wine sauce and the Loire Valley for river fish, fruits and goat cheese. And of course Paris is heaven to gourmets! You’ll find the best boulangeries in the world in Paris, and the food markets are amazing.

France Wine Tasting Tours
France History Tours
Duration
20 days
Price
US$ 5320
Region
in Burgundy, Loire Valley, Normandy & Paris

This is the best itinerary to thoroughly discover the Northern part of France: Burgundy vineyards, Loire Valley castles, Normandy WWII history . . . and ending in the most famous and beautiful capital in the world - Paris.

France Wine Tasting Tours
France History Tours
Countryside Tours
Duration
16 days
Price
US$ 5850
Region
in Paris, Provence & French Riviera

This itinerary will take you from Paris, the city of lights, to Provence in two different locations, and end in the French Riviera. Perfect to relax & get some sun !

France History Tours
Gourmet Food Tours
Art & Museums Tours
Duration
16 days
Price
US$ 5130
Region
in Paris, Loire Valley & Normandy

This itinerary gives you the perfect tour of Northern France, including Paris, the Loire Valley castles and gastronomy, and ending in Normandy with the landing sites, the hinterland and beautiful Giverny.

France History Tours
Gourmet Food Tours
Countryside Tours
Duration
10 days
Price
US$ 3340
Region
in Loire Valley & Normandy

From the Loire Valley castles , the famous village of Mont Saint Michel surrounded by water, the landings beaches and the Norman countryside . . . to end the trip at Monet’s house and gardens in Giverny : you’ll have to keep your eyes wide open!

France History Tours
Countryside Tours

Our Travelers’ Reviews

Duncan & Myrna
This is our second trip with France Just for You. The expertly organized trip we experienced the first time, brought us back again. The B&Bs and the activities planned for us were diverse and totally enjoyable! Picnic in an active winery in harvest, cooking in a French kitchen, dune buggy ride in the vineyards at the base of Mont Ventoux all …
Bryan & Family
France Just for You has my highest recommendation. I will never forget our trip to France. Laura was amazing. Perfect itinerary. They did the little things right. Were available throughout the trip. We forgot my 4 year old's blanket at the first hotel. I contacted Laura and she had it waiting for us when we arrived at the hotel airport to leave. I …
Jeanie & David
We were planning a trip to the Ryder Cup and looking for other places to visit while in France. I happened upon the France Just for You website and started some planning with Emilie. She took over and gave us great plans for every day and great accomodations. All of her suggestions were perfect, actually too much for us to do each day. Her travel …

Our Travelers’ Photos

Colleen & Russell
from New Zealand
Having Breakfast at the B&B
Trea & Anna
From the US
In a little town in Provence
Pam & Mercer
From the US
At the B&B in Giverny
Jane
from the US
Canoeing down the Dordogne river
Amy
from the US
Enjoying a great view in Burgundy
Roy & Maureen
From Australia
In Biarritz Food Market, enjoying some white wine with oysters
Scott
From Australia
Making "chou" buns in the Loire Valley
Teresa & Jim
From Australia
In the Basque Country
Yvette & David
from the US
on the French Riviera, near Nice
Patty
from the US
In Villeneuve les Avignon, Provence
Karen, Theresa, Mike & Bill
From the US
Dinner with view...
Myrna & Duncan
from Canada
In Eze gardens on the Riviera