vineyard tours northern france

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Wine Tasting Tours & Trips in Northern France

Explore a wide diversity of wine tasting tours through Northern France. We have 17 adventures that vary from 6 days to 18 days. With the greatest number of departures in June, this is also the most popular time of the year.

17 wine tasting Northern France tours with reviews

• Wine tasting

Cycling Champagne and Burgundy

Great adventure! Safe and well organized! Great Hotels/meals and cultural experiences! Love the arrow system!

Loire Valley: Walks, Wine & Chateaux

• River Cruise

Flavors of Burgundy (Wine Cruise) (Wine Cruise) 2024 Start Lyon, End Port of Dijon

Get away from it all on an Emotional Journey from Saône-et-Loire to the Côte d'Or (port-to-port cruise)

• In-depth Cultural

Flavors of Burgundy 2024 Start Lyon, End Port of Dijon

Grand France with 3 Nights in London for Wine Lovers (Northbound) 2025

Cycle the Wine Route of Champagne

Cycle Champagne & Burgundy – Premium Adventure

Paris & Normandy (Wine Cruise) (Wine Cruise) 2024

Alsace on E-bikes guided cycling tour

Loire Valley Highlights

Paris & Normandy (Wine Cruise) (Wine Cruise) 2019

Paris & Normandy (Wine Cruise) (Wine Cruise) 2023

Paris & Normandy (Wine Cruise) (Wine Cruise) 2022

Impressions of the Seine & Paris (Wine Cruise) (Wine Cruise) 2022

What people love about wine tasting tours in northern france, travel styles, other regions in france.

• Southern France (370)
• Provence (121)
• Aquitaine & Midi Pyrenees (88)
• Normandy (87)
• Alsace & Lorraine (72)
• Bordeaux & Dordogne (61)
• Loire Valley (46)
• Pays de la Loire (46)
• French Riviera (39)
• Burgundy (37)
• Ile de France (27)
• Corsica (19)
• Champagne (12)
• Beaujolais (6)
• Brittany (5)

Other types in Northern France

• Group (261)
• Fully Guided (223)
• Family (197)
• Explorer (185)
• River Cruise (151)
• Historical (121)
• Personalized (74)
• Bicycle (69)
• Self-Guided (68)
• Private (61)
• In-depth Cultural (43)
• Partially Guided (29)
• Self-Guided Cycling (24)
• Active (21)
• European Christmas Markets (19)
• Hiking & Trekking (19)

The Best Wine Tasting & Tours In France

Browse through the best selection of france wine tours.

HATT for Dreamers - Wine Tasting and Tour

HATT et SÖNER: A Champagne Odyssey of Taste and Tradition in Côte de Blancs, Champagne

A terroir story | Château Balestard La Tonnelle

Wine Tasting and Tour at Château Balestard La Tonnelle in Saint Emilion, Bordeaux

The "Origins" tour | Château Balestard La Tonnelle

Tasting Distinct Wines at Château Balestard La Tonnelle in Saint Emilion, Bordeaux

Exploring Burgundian Grape Varieties | Maison L. Tramier & Fils

Explore Burgundy with a guided tasting and vineyard tour at Maison L. Tramier & Fils. Book now and let yourself be charmed by the richness and diversity of Burgundian wines

In the Heart of 1st Growths: Prestige Tasting | Maison L. Tramier & Fils

A Dip into Wine History

Oenological Dive in Mercurey

Have an Aesthetically pleasing Day as you also please your taste buds at Maison L. Tramier & Fils winery | Wine Tasting in Burgundy

Wine Tasting, Lunch in a Troglodytic Cave and Tour at Domaine de Rocheville

Have a memorable lunch paired with wines at Domaine de Rocheville winery restaurant

Wine Tasting and Tour at Domaine de Rocheville in Loire Valley

Enjoy a winery tour and organic wine tasting with 4 wines paired with local bouchées

Wine Tasting in Chablis at Domaine Céline & Frédéric Gueguen

A Tasting in Heart of Chablis

Premium Wine Tasting Châteauneuf du Pape with Art | La Cave de Mathias

La Cave de Mathias is a Unique Place for Dream Tastings in Chateauneuf Du Pape, Rhone

Rare and Atypical Champagne Tour and Tasting at Champagne Roger-Constant Lemaire

Enjoy a Guided Tour and Pleasant Tasting at the Champagne Roger-Constant Lemaire in Vallée de la Marne Wine Region

Rare and Atypical Champagne Tasting at Champagne Roger-Constant Lemaire

Taste Authentic Champagne at Champagne Roger-Constant Lemaire

France Wine Tours Offered by Local Guides

Discover France's wine scene together with knowledgeable local wine tour guides.

Wines and Chocolate Northern Rhone Valley - Full Day

The Pleasures of Wine and Chocolate

The Roman city of Vienne and Côte Rôtie - Half day

Amazing Wines to Try

Southern Burgundy - Full day

Yummy and Fruity Chardonnay tasting

Northern Rhône Valley: Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, Cornas

Discover diverse soils and wines, from fruity Crozes-Hermitage to complex Hermitage, paired with gourmet food along the way

Northern Rhône Valley from Côte-Rôtie to Hermitage

Explore Côte-Rôtie and Hermitage vineyards, tasting exceptional wines and enjoying breathtaking views

Northern Rhône Valley Côte-Rôtie, Condrieu, Saint-Joseph - Full Day Tour

A Day Tour of Norther Rhone Valley

Northern Rhône Valley - half day

Experience Côte-Rôtie and Condrieu, highlighting Syrah and Viognier in their native lands, with tastings and scenic views

Northern Rhône cheese & wine

Explore Côte-Rôtie and Pilat Park, meet local cheese producers, and enjoy wine and cheese pairings.

Medieval town of Pérouges and Bugey wine - Half day

Make Time Stop

Lyon and its vineyards - Half Day Tour

Sightseeing and Wines!

Beaujolais South Golden Stones - Half Day

Visit the Most Sensual Vineyards in France!

Beaujolais South and North - Full Day

Fruity and Very Good Wines

Best Cities to Visit in France

France Wine Map

How to reach wine tasting experiences in france.

Wine tasting tours in France are easily accessible by different means of transportation.

• Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) is the best option to reach wine tastings and tours in Champagne.
• Paris Orly (ORY) 
• Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD)  takes you directly into the heart of the Bordeaux wine region.
• Marseille Airport (MRS) or Nice Airport (NCE) to reach wine tastings and tours in Provence
• Montpellier (MPL)  is where to land to reach the Languedoc – Roussillion wine region and South West France.
• Nantes Atlantique Airport (NTE) is your option to get close to wine tastings and tours in Loire Valley.
• Lyon Saint Éxupéry Airport (LYS) to get to wine tastings and tours in Rhône.
• A89  or  A62 to reach wine tastings and tours in Bordeaux.
• A6, A31  direction Dijon and then Lille or Nancy or A38 towards Besançon or Basel to get to heart of Burgundy.
• A6, A43, A47  or  A89 are all the motorways that lead to wine tastings and tours in Rhône.
• A8  is the best route to drive to discover Provence.
• Porto Vecchio

Looking for a more specific destination?

Design your perfect wine holiday in france.

Personalize your wine experiences with our team of experts

Dive into the heart of France's celebrated wine culture with a wine-tasting holiday tailored just for you. Explore the storied vineyards of Bordeaux, the picturesque estates of Burgundy, and beyond. Our personalized wine holidays offer exclusive access to private tastings with renowned sommeliers and visits to boutique wineries. Each tour is crafted to your preferences, ensuring a journey that's as enriching as it is enjoyable. Whether you're deepening your wine expertise or discovering new favorites, a wine holiday in France is the perfect blend of luxury and discovery. Ready to uncork the possibilities? Please fill out the form below to begin planning your adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

The most frequently asked questions by our visitors, where to taste wine in france, what to wear at wine tastings in france, which is france's most famous wine, what is the most popular white wine in france, how much is a wine tasting in france, which french town is known for wine, what is the best wine area in france, what is the most expensive wine region in france, what travellers says about france wine tours.

Are you interested in reading more about France?

Are you interested in reading more about France? Read our France wine country guide section, or visit our selection of the very best France wineries that you can visit during your stay.

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French Vineyards: Highlights Of Northern France

To wine lovers, traveling is a duty; finding the holy grail of wines. The holy grail may be located in the French Vineyards of Northern France.

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Thousands of people are dedicated to touring wine producing regions with the idea of learning about the interesting world of wine. The French Vineyards and Wineries of Northern France are your dream destination.

Complete “wine routes,” try new varieties, observe production processes and, above all, visiting the vineyards, are essential tasks for any wine enthusiast. These wineries and regions in Northern France cannot be missed.

The French Vineyards of Champagne

Lying to the north-east of Paris, Champagne is a historic province. Famed for the self-entitled Champagne sparkling wine.

Champagne was not invented in this region, but Languedoc, in Southern France. However, it was quickly discovered that the climatic conditions in the Champagne region produced better wine than southern regions.

The most famous  French vineyards of Champagne are located on the chalky hills to the south-west of Reims region. An area home to some of the major Champagne producers, such as Taittinger, Moët & Chandon, and Perrier-Jouët. Due to tourism, many wine tours and tastings are available.

With amazing history, Lorraine remains a large tourist attraction in France. In particular, its geographical position has always generated controversy due to its proximity to Luxembourg and Germany. In fact, half of the inhabitants of this region speak French, and the other half, located to the east, speak German.

Despite the various benefits of this territory and its great tourist potential, wine is not one of the most important elements. Except for a small region in the border area with Germany, Luxembourg and Belgium, called Moselle Valley.

This valley, formed by the Moselle River, is one of the most important regions of white wine production. Many amazing French Vineyards live along the waters of the Moselle. “Moselle wine” is produced in three countries and is the heart of the wine industry in Luxembourg. The best, coming from French vineyards.

Many beautiful wineries are located in Moselle, Lorraine.

Looking for something to eat with these amazing wines? Try a mouthwatering, french Beef Bourguignon !

In reality, Burgundy holds the perfect climate for grape growing and wine production.

Centre–Val-de-Loire

Known as the center of northern France, Centre-Val-De-Loire is full of beautiful vineyards, and amazing wines!

Characterized by the low-lying valleys of the river Loire, this region is famed due to a great number of vineyards. These famed vineyards produce unique white wines, including the sparkling whites of Touraine and Vouvray. Recognized for its vineyards, areas such as Pouilly-Fumé, Sancerre and Valençay shine.

Vineyards and wineries with high-quality wines are commonplace in Loire. The Loire Valley Wine Tour is iconic of this region. Offering unique tours, related to wine, traditions, and the culture of Loire and Northern France.

Notably, some of the famous wineries are Vinitour Centre-Loire, Chateau Gaudrelle Vins de Vouvray, Troglo Degusto, Cave Eric Louis. However, there are hundreds of places you can visit and taste a great wine.

Part of the central region of France, Burgundy may be the best known, and greatest on this list. Bordered by the Loire river to the west, and Champagne to the east. In reality, Burgundy holds the perfect climate for grape growing and wine production.

The world-famous Burgundy vineyards produce some of the most prestigious and expensive wines in the world. Specifically, the top wines are mostly produced on a narrow strip of land running south from Dijon, on the western fringe of the Saône plain, in the Côtes de Nuits and the Côtes de Beaune vineyard areas. Furthermore, these include names such as Gevrey-Chambertin, Vosne-Romanée, Pommard, Volnay and Clos Vougeot.

Some of the best vineyards are quite small. Protected by years of tradition, dedication, and passion for wine.

The Best Of Wine Experiences

Ultimately, France has many historical sites where wine is hand in hand with culture and tradition. New stories, experiences and flavors will help in the growth and continuance of French wine culture. In the end, if you are a wine lover, Northern France is a must-visit destination.

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France Wine Tasting Tours

France self-drive wine tours.

Welcome to the world of France wine country tours! We can help you explore the rich and diverse landscapes of French vineyards and taste exquisite wines from the best French wineries.

At France Just For You, we offer a unique range of French winery tours that cater to everyone (such as our France for Wine Lovers tour!), from wine connoisseurs to those just beginning their wine journey. With our custom self-drive wine tours, you'll have the opportunity to explore various wine regions in France and indulge in the finest France wine tasting experiences.

Based on the type of experience you are looking for, we will be happy to organize wine tastings , recommend quaint wineries , or take you on a wine tasting day with a local sommelier , wine guide or wine lover. Whether you prefer strong tannic wines or lighter fruity wines, in France we have something for everyone!

Our self guided tours for wine lovers

Dentelles in Provence Alain Hocquel - CDT Vaucluse

The "Tour de France"

France Just For You has organized its own very special Tour de France. No need for a bike but be ready for a great deal of adventure! This itinerary will take you off the beaten path to all the must sees & dos in four of the most enthralling regions of France.

Marc Schaffner - Morbihan Tourisme

Normandy, Brittany & the Loire Valley Tour

From the landing sites in Normandy to Mont Saint Michel on to Brittany ending in the Loire Valley, this itinerary will have you discover all the history, traditions and gastronomy of the North-West of France.

Royal Fortress in Chinon Jean-Christophe Coutand - ADT Touraine

The Very Best of Northern France

From East to West, discover the Northern half of France at your own pace. Visit Alsace, Burgundy, the Loire Valley, and Normandy, ending your wonderful adventure in Paris.

Katzenthal vineyards Tristan Vuano - ADT Alsace

Focus on the Northeastern France

On this itinerary, you'll go North-East ! Burgundy, Alsace and Champagne are all located East of Paris and near the Swiss and German borders. Quite unknown, these regions have a lot to discover !

Wine Tasting in the Loire Valley ADT Touraine - Jean-Christophe Coutand

France for Wine Lovers

This itinerary is designed for gourmet travelers who aim at discovering and learning more about French wines. Our tours also mix heritage, culture, nice walks, gardens, etc. In this tour, you will stay in wineries, by vineyards & in wine towns. An absolute must for wine lovers !

Chinon fortress Jean-Christophe Coutand - ADT Touraine

From Verdun history to the Loire castles

This itinerary gives a nice overview of the center of France: the Verdun WWI battlefields, the wine and heritage of Burgundy, and ending in the Loire Valley with its gardens, castles and sweet life.

Hautvillers in Champagne E.Vidal - ADT Marne

The North-East of France: from WWI history to vineyards

Explore North-Eastern France and jump into French wines & history! Starting in Reims, capital of the Champagne region, you will learn many stories starring Joan of Arc, Marie-Antoinette and a famous widow . . . Clicquot. A private guide will make World War I history come alive, allowing you to get a comprehensive overview of the Verdun battlefields. You will bike and taste wines in Burgundy and finish your journey with flourish in Paris.

Surfers in the Basque Country Emmy Martens - Biarritz Tourist Office

Southern France from Bordeaux to Avignon

When the South of France is mentionned, many travelers think of Provence. But there is so much more to discover between the South-West and the South-East of France. This 26 day itinerary is designed to give you a very complete tour of the southern part of France, enjoying the gastronomy, heritage, wine, villages, and scenic roads . . . the best that France has to offer.

Calvados Tourisme - L. Durand

Paris, the Loire Valley and Normandy at a slower pace

This itinerary will take you to three of the culturally richest regions of France, at a relaxed pace and away from the beaten tracks. We recommend flying into and out of Paris for this itinerary.

Lovely Dordogne town CDT Dordogne - Cochise

The Many Facets of France

This itinerary is for independent travelers who may already know the southern coast of France and who are looking for discovering the “inside” of the country. Five regions that are totally different from each other, showing you the diversity of France.

france itinerary 4 weeks CRT Bouches du Rhone

Self-Driving around France - from Paris to Nice

Spend about a month traveling from Paris to Nice on the French Riviera and get a real feel for the authentic France!

Vigens Rock - Rocher de la Vierge in the Basque Coastline Emmy Martens

From the Atlantic to the Mediterranean

From the rugged Atlantic coast to the azur-colored Mediterranean Sea – experience the diversity of the South of France.

Martel covered market Cochise - OT Vallée de la Dordogne

Traditions & Heritage of the SW of France

This loop from Bordeaux will take you on a journey to the South West of France: vineyards, mountains, cliff-hanging fortresses and rolling hills. You will enjoy all the diversity of this unique part of France.

Traditional costumes from the Basque Country OT Hendaye

Focus on the South West of France

From the Unesco city of Bordeaux and the surrounding world-famous vineyards, to the mythical beach towns of Biarritz and St Jean de Lu z, feeling the fresh air of the Pyrenees foothills, and ending in the mysterious medieval town of Carcassonne . . . what a program!

Provence landscapes Benoit Dignac - ADT Avignon

Southern France from West to East

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.

chambord castle loire valley Chambord castle

Romantic Day Tour in the 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.

Le Rivau Castle Jean-Christophe Coutand - ADT Touraine

Paris, Burgundy Gastronomy & Loire Castles

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.

on the Loire River David Darrault

Northern France Must Sees & Hidden Beauties

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.

La Concorde in Paris David Lefranc - OT Paris

Heritage, Wine & Back Roads

Get a taste of the real France in very typical regions, famous for their cultural heritage as well as their sweet way of life.

Burgundy cheeses Alain Doiré

From Marseille to Paris away from the Crowds

Explore Eastern France, from South to North . . . colorful Provence, Burgundy vineyards, and of course the city of lights: Paris! We recommend that our travelers fly into Marseille and out of Paris (which is not always more expensive and much more convenient than Paris on both ends).

Chambord castle FJFY

Sceneries, Wineries & Castles in the Heart of France

Explore and fully experience two "very French" regions, both famous for their gastronomy, wines, beautiful landscapes and very rich heritage.

Langeais town in the Loire Valley David Darrault

Normandy & the Loire Valley Loop

Normandy & the Loire Valley are 2 regions of France you should not miss: the climate is mild, the people are very welcoming and history is around every corner.

Half timbered houses in the Loire Valley Half timbered houses in the Loire Valley

Castles, Caves & Coves

Explore French culture and history in three of its most representative regions: the Loire Valley, Dordogne and the Riviera, with a nice stop in Carcassonne.

Cochise - OT Vallée de la Dordogne Cochise - OT Vallée de la Dordogne

The diversity of French Landscapes

Let yourself be carried away by three of the most iconic regions of France. From the Vallée de la Loire's "sweet life" to Dordogne's castles and Provence's colorful landscapes, you'll have a most enjoyable and memorable journey!

La Liodière restaurant & chef ADT Touraine - Jean-Christophe Coutand

Scenic Roads & French Cuisine

Travel through three of the most fascinating regions in France. Let your friendly hosts introduce you to the French "sweet life" in their charming B&Bs.

Villandry castle & gardens ADT Touraine - Jean-Christophe Coutand

The Loire Valley's Heritage & Gastronomy

Be seduced by France Just For You's very special way of discovering the Loire Valley, its must sees and hidden beauties. In this itinerary, you will experience the "sweet life" in Touraine, stopping over in little villages to savor local goat cheese or taste amazing wines. Take the time to relax in rose gardens, or to enjoy the traditional cuisine in many small restaurants frequented by the locals.

French Wine Country Tours: A Journey Through Some of The French Wine Regions

Discover bordeaux and beyond.

Our France vineyard tours will take you through the picturesque vineyards of Bordeaux, Saint-Émilion, and the Médoc . You'll be able to explore quaint villages, admire the extravagant merchants' homes that line the banks of the Garonne river, and stroll along Europe's longest shopping street. By staying in St Émilion, the heart of the Bordeaux vineyards, you'll get a taste of the finest wines the region has to offer away from the tourist crowds.

Browse our sample tours of Bordeaux

The Loire Valley: Where History Meets Wine

We warmly recommend a visit to the Loire Valley (where the France Just For You team is based!), the land of enchanting castles and exceptional vineyards . Our France wine tours will take you through Chinon, Bourgueil, Vouvray, and more, and you'll have the chance to visit charming wineries and experience the Loire Valley's fascinating history. You'll be able to take in the breathtaking sights of the Loire Valley chateaux, including Chambord and Chenonceau. We'll also recommend other hidden gems and less well-known wine-tasting experiences that most tourists don't know about!

Take a look at our Loire Valley tours

Burgundy: Experience the Charm of La Bourgogne

We aim to offer our travelers the best of French wine vacations by taking them off the tourist trail so they can experience 'the real' France'. In the heart of Burgundy, we'll arrange for you to stay in a beautiful B&B house owned by a local wine-making family. From there, you'll be able to explore the region's renowned vineyards and taste some of the world's finest red and white wines . Sébastien, one of the expert wine guides we work with, will take you on a unique off-road tour of the vineyards (so you can drink wine to your heart's content!), and help you discover the delightful hidden gems of Beaune and Dijon.

Check out our tours of Burgundy, France

Champagne: a Region of Rich History, Allure & Sparkle

A France wine-tasting tour would not be complete without a visit to the world-famous Champagne region! You'll stay in the areas of Reims, which has a world-renowned history in the world of Champagne production. We will recommend some of our favorite Champagne wineries you can visit on your own, and arrange for you to spend half a day on a customized private tour with an expert Champagne guide . Just let us know your wishes and preferences, and we'll take care of the rest. We'll also help you explore the beauty of Reims and its surroundings and discover local attractions. These include fossils and architecture, bustling markets, and a range of places to enjoy delicious cuisine , from small eateries to the finest Michelin-starred restaurants (a wonderful complement to luxury wine tours in France).

Get inspired by our self guided tours in Champagne

Frequently Asked Questions

Any time is a great time for a wine tour in France , especially because we drink and recommend wine-tastings that include older vintages. However, during the summer when it's very hot, it may not be as pleasant as when the weather is cooler. It's also important to keep in mind that wineries are extremely busy during the harvest season - from late August through September - and some may close to the public during this time. Apart from that, each region has its own specific peak seasons, so it's best to research the specific region you plan to visit before deciding on your trip dates. Alternatively, contact us and we will recommend the best time to visit the French wine regions you'd like to visit.

At France Just For You, expert trip planners Emilie, Laura and Clelia can plan the perfect custom wine tour of France , tailored to your interests and preferences. From organizing wine tastings and private tours with expert wine guides, to arranging your premium B&B accommodation and car hire, we've got you covered. Just let us know the type of wine, grape variety and French regions (e.g. Burgundy, Bordeaux, Loire etc) you like, and we’ll do the rest!

This would be a tough battle between  Bordeaux  (which is often referred to as 'the wine capital of France'), Beaune in Burgundy (world-renowned for its very fine wines) and Reims-Epernay in Champagne . These are the most famous traditional wine cities in France. However, this has changed a lot in recent years, and lots of smaller wine regions produce now excellent wines as well. This means a wine connoisseur could be kept busy for months in France on a comprehensive wine-tasting tour.

Other fine wine-producing regions include the Loire Valley (most famous for its wine wines),  Provence (famous for its rosé wines) and Alsace (known for the Alsace wine road). The Basque Country also has its own traditional wine called Irouléguy. If you book a tour with us, let us know your preferences when it comes to wine and the regions in France you would like to visit, and we will plan the perfect France wine tour just for you!

In our opinion, the Loire Valley and Alsace are the most scenic wine regions, though each wine region in France has its own unique charm and beauty. The Loire Valley is known for its stunning castles and rolling vineyards, and the Vosges mountains and the Alsace wine road in eastern France are beautifully scenic. In addition, Burgundy offers gorgeous picturesque landscapes and charming villages, and Provence has lovely sceneries that inspired the work of artists like Paul Cezanne and Vincent van Gogh.

We also particularly like smaller vineyards in very scenic places such as Irouléguy in the Basque Country , Caunes Minnervois near Carcassonne , and Bandol or Cassis on the French Riviera , which are gorgeous places.

All our self drive France itineraries will include recommended driving routes that will take you through gorgeous scenery.

Our Travelers’ Reviews

My husband and I spent one week visiting Normandy and the Loire Valley on a trip planned by France Just For You. The trip was amazing....We stayed in beautiful accomodations,had the BEST private guides,utilized many suggested itineraries---and all while keeping within our budget! For anyone who does not have the time or inclination to plan a trip …

My husband and I spent one week visiting Normandy and the Loire Valley on a trip planned by France Just For You. The trip was amazing....We stayed in beautiful accomodations,had the BEST private guides,utilized many suggested itineraries---and all while keeping within our budget! For anyone who does not have the time or inclination to plan a trip themselves, this is definitely the way to go....it was terrific from start to finish!

In May we travelled to France for our second trip with Emilie and France Just For You, and it was just as wonderful as our first adventure! Emilie's planning is so thorough and detailed that not a thing is left to chance. The B and B's were lovely and the hosts delightful; the routes were carefully planned to give us a complete taste of Southern …

In May we travelled to France for our second trip with Emilie and France Just For You, and it was just as wonderful as our first adventure! Emilie's planning is so thorough and detailed that not a thing is left to chance. The B and B's were lovely and the hosts delightful; the routes were carefully planned to give us a complete taste of Southern France; and the suggestions for restaurants, shopping and cultural activities were perfect. We completely trusted all of Emilie's suggestions and highly recommend her services!

We are a couple that contacted Emilie at France Just For You and her responsiveness and services were excellent. She and her husband listened very carefully to our stated interests and followed up with us in a very personal way. As independent travelers who work, we did not have time to fully plan a trip to the Dordogne region of France which was …

We are a couple that contacted Emilie at France Just For You and her responsiveness and services were excellent. She and her husband listened very carefully to our stated interests and followed up with us in a very personal way. As independent travelers who work, we did not have time to fully plan a trip to the Dordogne region of France which was not familiar to us and Emilie made the planning process very efficient! We would recommend the services of this company to anyone!

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Home » Europe » France » The Best France Winery Tours (2024 • Insider Guide)

The Best France Winery Tours (2024 • Insider Guide)

The words wine and France are synonymous with one other. When you hear a passive-aggressive “oui, oui” , your mind immediately goes to, “white wine, please.” Oh, that can’t just be me, surely?

France is by far one of the most famous wine-producing countries in the world and has been producing world-class wines for over 2,000 years. They are one of the world’s largest wine producers and produce a whopping seven to eight billion bottles per year! The quality of French wine is second-to-none and regions like Bordeaux and Burgundy produce some of the top wines in the world.

People travel to France from all over the world every year to experience the joie de vivre that is French wine. Coupled with amazing landscapes, cuisine, and weather, France winery tours are an absolute must when visiting the country.

There’s nothing like a bit of wine travel to boost the spirits and lucky for you, I’ve sorted through some of the TOP winery tours in France. They are conducted by highly experienced locals who know the region backwards and will guide you through some top-quality vino.

Let’s get popping!

What is a Vineyard Tour?

Wine regions of france, the best france winery tours, final thoughts on france wine tours.

So, what exactly is a vineyard tour? You’ve probably heard the term before and have some idea of what it entails.

In a nutshell, a vineyard tour takes wine enthusiasts visiting France into the heart of the wine regions to visit individual estates or Chateaus. You will find yourself immersed in the history of the estate, learning about the production processes, farming techniques, and of course, tasting amazing wines.

Also known as a winery tour, these outings have proven to be very mutually beneficial arrangements. Owners have access to another income stream, while wine enthusiasts get to hear the story and drink wine. It really is a win-win situation.

Before I get onto my top picks for vineyard tours in France, it’s important to understand a bit more about the various wine regions in the country. Let’s take a look at them below!

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When it comes to wine regions in France, it’s like the land of milk and honey – they are beyond blessed to have many regions spread across the country. With such a variety of landscapes, ranging from the coastlines on both the east and the west, to mountainous regions like the Alps and the Pyrenees, there is such terroir diversity in the country.

With this diversity in terroir, each region has its own specialities and varietals that are best suited to be grown there. Wherever you stay in France , you can be assured of one thing – that there will be an amazing vineyard with delectable wines close by.

A quick important note before we carry on, because it features a lot, is the use term AOC, or Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée . This is used to certify the geographical origins of wines, as well as cheeses and other agricultural products.

Right, let’s dive into the regions for the best winery tours in France!

First and foremost, is none other than Bordeaux, one of the most famous wine regions in the world. Located on the west coast of France, slightly inland from the sea, the wine region of Bordeaux spans both banks of the Girond Estuary. With a highest point of a mere 45 meters above sea level, Bordeaux is pretty flat! Rainfall occurs throughout the year given the close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, although the climate is described as “maritime warm”.

Soil types in the region are predominantly clay and gravel – generally found on either side of the river. The left bank is predominantly gravel, while the right bank is predominantly clay, each favoring the planting of different varietals. You’ll find mainly Cabernet Sauvignon planted in the warmer gravel soils, while Merlot favors the cooler, moisture-retaining clay soils. Other varietals permitted to be grown in the region include Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot, and Carménère for red wines, and Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Muscadelle for white wines.

There are also a number of appellations in Bordeaux, with some of the most notable places to stay being Margaux, Pauillac, Saint Emilion, Sauternes, and Pomerol. Chateau Latour, Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Chateau Margaux, Chateau Haut Brion, and Château Mouton Rothschild are all regarded as some of the most prestigious wines in the world, all holding premier cru status.

Champagne, found in northern France, is built on some of the largest limestone deposits in the world. The region is often referred to as having vine-covered hillsides, with vineyards being planted mainly on slopes. This has been discovered to favor the production of Champagne along with the limestone-rich soils – the finished products benefiting from beautiful minerality.

Another unique aspect of Champagne is its dual climatic influence meaning that it is exposed to both continental and oceanic influences. The vineyards are exposed to plenty of sunlight in summer, with just the right amount of rainfall throughout the year, and well-drained soils. There are three principal grapes planted in the region – Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier.

There are four main sub-regions within Champagne – Montagne de Reims, Marne Valley, Côte des Blancs, and Côte des Bar. The most notable producers from the region include Moet & Chandon, Tattinger, Ruinart, Dom Perignon, Krug, Gosset, and Bollinger.

Paris is not one of France’s wine regions per se, but it is closely located to four of the other most well-known regions for day trips from Paris , namely Burgundy, Loire, Alsace, and Champagne. Bordeaux is a little further off but still attainable for a weekend trip.

Being the capital of France, a wine-loving nation, there are many wine-related tastings and tours that are either in the city or leave from the city. I’ll go into further details in the section that follows, where we look at the best winery tours in France.

Provence, found in the southeastern corner of France, borders Italy, the Alps, and of course, the Mediterranean Sea. It is a region that is known for sunshine, glamour, and delicious rosé wines. It has a rather unique and diverse landscape for travelling in Europe , from the warm Mediterranean sea all the way up to high, snow-capped peaks in the Alps. There are large limestone deposits further inland, which contribute fantastic minerality to the wines. The closer to the sea you get, these limestone deposits shift to more schist-based soils.

Generally speaking, the climate in Provence is hot and dry, with low rainfall levels which means that grapes tend to ripen quite quickly. There is also a strong, north-westerly wind known as the Mistral that blows through the region mainly in the winter.

The regions for French wine tours are subdivided into three main AOCs – Côte de Provence, Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence, and Coteaux Varois en Provence. Provence is most famously known for its crispy, onion-skin colored roses, made from varietals like Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Carignan, Cinsault, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Red wines are also made from the same selection of varietals, either as blends or 100% components. White wines in the region are generally made from Semillon, Rolle, Clairette, and Ugni Blanc. Although whites and reds are produced, rosé is the most commonly produced wine and accounts for about 75% of the total production.

Rhône Valley

The Rhône Valley, also found in south-eastern France, stretches from Lyon to the Camargue area close to the Mediterranean Sea – a stretch of about 150 miles. There are two parts to the region – the northern and southern Rhône, separated by a 25-mile gap between the towns of Valance and Montelimar.

The Northern Rhône experiences a more continental climate, and together with the granite-rich soils and more mountainous terrain, has a focus on quality. Syrah is almost exclusively grown in the Northern Rhône as the predominant red, while Viognier, Marsanne, and Roussanne are used for the production of white wines.

The southern Rhône has a more Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and little rainfall. The Mistral wind together with rockier and sandier soils, leads to the south producing larger quantities and a greater list of varietals. The south also uses Syrah as a blending component together with Grenache and Mourvèdre to produce the classic GSM red blend (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre). White varietals that are used in the south include Viognier, Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Roussanne, Viognier, and Picpoul.

The notable AOCs within the Rhône Valley include the most famous Côte-Rôtie and Hermitage, in the north, along with Cornas, Saint-Péray, Saint-Joseph, and Crozes-Hermitage. In the south, the most famous AOC by far is none other than Châteauneuf-du-Pape, along with Côtes du Rhône Villages.

Loire Valley

The Loire Valley stretches from the west coast of France and into the central region of the country, along the Loire River – a staggering 634 miles long! It is the third largest wine region in France, behind Bordeaux and Burgundy, and is a major producer of everyday wines.

The Loire Valley is known for a few things – firstly, the Sauvignon Blanc regions of Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé are found in the central parts of the country. Secondly, it is known for its Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc regions of Saumur, Anjou, and Vouvray towards the west coast. Lastly, the region of Muscadet near the city of Nantes. Gamay and Melon de Bourgogne are also produced in small quantities in the region.

The sheer size of the Loire Valley means that there are a variety of geographical changes as you head from the central regions, eventually reaching the Atlantic coastline. The vineyards closer to the ocean are largely grown on flat slopes with well-drained, rocky soils made up of granite and schist. The further inland you go, so too does the maritime climate fade somewhat but the terrain remains rather flat. There are a whole host of different soil types, from dark schist and limestone to flinty clay, gravel, and sand.

Notable AOCs in the Loire Valley include Saumur, Pays Nantais, Anjou, Touraine, Sancerre, Pouilly-Fume, and Côtes du Forez. The difference in soil, climate, and varietals means that there is a rather large variety of wines and styles produced in the Loire Valley, and it is often overshadowed by the obvious Bordeaux to the south.

Found in the eastern-central area of France, Burgundy (aka Bourgogne) is one of the smallest wine regions for winery tours in France, but one that is highly influential in the wine world. Some of the world’s most expensive wines are produced in Burgundy, like Domaine de la Romanée-Conti or DRC as it’s commonly referred to. I loved staying in the very French Airbnbs around here.

Now, out of all the wine regions in France, Burgundy is probably the easiest to remember in terms of grape varietals grown. The primary focus in Burgundy is on Chardonnay (Bourgogne Blanc) and Pinot Noir (Bourgogne Rouge). You can also expect to find varietals of Sauvignon Blanc, Gamay, Aligoté, and Pinot Gris in much smaller quantities.

The landscape in Burgundy is characterized by gentle, rolling hills between 150m and 600m elevation, and wide river valleys. There are some higher peaks that hit the 900m mark such as in the Morvan, but generally speaking, it’s not a mountainous region. The climate in Burgundy is very much continental, with cold winters and hot summers.

The weather is somewhat unpredictable and it is common for the region to experience hail, rail, and frost during harvest time – not ideal! Soils are generally comprised of that sought-after limestone which imparts beautiful minerality that are a signature of Burgundian wines. Some of the most notable AOCs in the region include Chassagne-Montrachet, La Tâche, Chambertin, Meursault, Pommard, and Chablis.

Last but not least is Alsace, found in the northeastern corner of France. Now, Alsace has a rather interesting history as it has bounced between German and French rule in recent centuries. It now forms part of France and has done so since 1919 after the conclusion of World War I.

The region produces both white and red wines as well as sparkling wines known as Crémant. However, white wines make up the majority of wine produced in the area at a staggering 90% of production. The most common white varietals you’ll find on wine tours in the region include Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains, Muscat Rose à Petits Grains, and Muscat Ottonel. Sylvaner is also grown in the region along with smaller quantities of Pinot Blanc, Auxerrois, and Chasselas. The smaller quantities of red that is grown is predominantly Pinot Noir which was traditionally lighter in body and more rustic than those from Burgundy.

Alsace sits firmly between the Rhine River and the mountains of Vosges, with the vineyards predominantly on the lower hillside slopes of the Vosges. The vineyards are grown on a variety of soil types given the change in topography. On the flatter areas, there are mainly clay-based soils with a lot of limestone and marlstone, while the more mountainous areas feature granite, sandstone, and volcanic rock.

There are three AOCs that can be found in Alsace, making it one of the simpler French wine regions to understand. They are Alsace, Alsace Grand Cru, and Crémant d’Alsace.

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Right, now comes the fun part – the best France winery tours. Wine tourism in France is a massive industry and it’s easy to see why. There is such a vast offering in terms of vineyards and vineyard tours to choose from. I’ve hand-picked a few of my favorites that will be sure to get your inner wine nerd going!

Let’s check them out:

Bordeaux Wine Tour

• $186 per person

Now, what’s better than exploring a Bordeaux AOC during your tour? Exploring TWO AOCs in one day, that’s what! During this epic Bordeaux wine tour, you’ll get to explore both Saint Emilion and Margaux in the same day!

This tour leaves from Bordeaux and takes you to the historical town of Saint Emilion which you will walk around and discover. You will then head to a Chateau and taste through three wines, followed by a picnic with local cheeses and charcuterie as well as a further three wines. You will then head over to Margaux where you’ll get to visit the world-famous Chateau Margaux to snap some pics, followed by a tasting at another Grand Cru producer for your weekend in Bordeaux . It is here that the tour will conclude, after which you will be taken back into the city.

Champagne Wine Tour

• 10 – 11 hours
• $328 per person

This tour begins in none other than Paris, the city of love. You will be driven to Champagne, all the while enjoying croissants and hearing the wonderful story of this sparkling delight. The first stop is at one of the prestigious champagne houses in Epernay or Reims, which will differ daily depending on availability. But expect any one of the big names such as Mumm, Veuve Clicquot, Mercier, Moët & Chandon, Pommery, or Lanson.

A tasting in the middle of a vineyard is next, followed by a delicious lunch with, you guessed it, more Champagne! A digestive tour in the vineyards where you will learn all about the Champagne cultivars. The tour concludes with a visit to a family-run French winery which is rather different from the large Champagne houses. More bubbles follow, after which you will be driven back to continue your trip in Paris , as merry as can be!

Paris Wine Tour

• $76 per person

Sticking with the Paris theme, next up is something a little different. Instead of a vineyard visit, you will remain in the city and be guided through French wines by a trained sommelier. During the class, you will learn about the various wine regions in France and get to taste the wines from them. You will learn about what makes them special, the terroir that encompasses the wine, and the appellation in which it is grown.

You will also learn how to read a wine label – trust me, it’s not as easy as you think! This is one of the most fun, unique places to visit in Paris that is aimed at all knowledge levels. During the 2-hour class, you will get to taste one Champagne and five other French wines to entice your palette and also includes a basket of bread to snack on.

Provence Wine Tour

• Aix-en-Provence
• $82 per person

Leaving from Aix-en-Provence, just north of Marseille, this tour is an interesting discovery of three unique styles of wine from Provence. You will taste full-bodied reds, whites of distinction, and of course, elegant rosés.

You will taste wines from two wineries located in the Côtes de Provence Sainte Victoire AOC, found to the east of Aix-en-Provence. This is a great half-day tour for those who want to discover the wines of the region but would still like to have their afternoon free. The tour doesn’t include meals so you have the freedom to pick a great little bistro afterwards for a bite to eat.

Rhône Wine Tour

• $93 per person

What better way to discover the Rhône Valley than at one of the most famous AOCs there is, Châteauneuf du Pape. This tour will take you for a morning tour of the region as you are driven through lush landscapes nestled between the Alps and the Rhône River.

Once you have reached Châteauneuf du Pape, you will be taken to two separate wineries where you will get to taste a selection of white, red, and rosé wines. You will also learn about the production processes of these world-famous wines as well as the terroir in which they are grown.

Loire Wine Tour

• $153 per person

This winery tour in France begins in the town, Tours, and starts off in the Bourgueil region with a wine-tasting session. Not only is the Bourgueil region famous for its wines but for its castles too. You will then be taken to the town of Chinon, a town surrounded by vineyards. Here, you will have a small break and get to explore the town a bit on your own. It’s also the perfect time to grab a snack like the famous pork rillettes which are a local specialty.

The tour then continues with a wine tasting in Chinon, where you will get to taste some of the famous red wines in the region. You will also get to view some of the Cabernet Franc vineyards, which are used for the production of fine red wines.

Burgundy Wine Tour

• $246 per person

Right, now we’re on to the big guns with this Burgundy wine tour, starting in the town of Beaune. From here, you will head to a local domain winery in the area where you will taste a range of wines and learn about the various AOCs in the region. There will then be some free time for you to grab some lunch (at your own expense) and explore the town a bit.

After lunch, you will head to your second tasting at a local domain in Nuits-Saint-Georges via the Route des Grands Crus. You will have the chance to snap some pics at the world-renowned Romanée-Conti . There is also a guided tour at Clos Vougeot which was founded in 1098 by monks. Talk about historical vineyards!

Alsace Wine Tour

• $107 per person

Concluding our list of best winery tours in France takes us to the Alsace region in the city of Strasbourg. You will depart the city and make your way along the Alsace wine route to the town of Obernai. Here, your day with a coffee from your gorgeous Airbnb in Strasbourg then head to the tour for a tasting at one of the local wineries.

You will continue along the wine route and then stop off at a second venue in a classic Alsace “caveau” for a tasting. During the tour, you will learn about the seven different Alsace wines and the growing conditions that allow these aromatic white wines to flourish.

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Right, that now brings us to the end of the best France winery tours. I hope that the information I have put forth to you will help you in some way, shape, or form and that you’ve learned something from reading this article. The beautiful thing about wine is that there’s always something new to be learned and something new to taste.

The journey that is involved in producing wines is fascinating and by embarking on these amazing vineyard tours, you will get to experience the uniqueness of every region, chateau, and appellation. So, book that ticket and secure your place on one of these winery tours in France. There’s a whole lot of wine out there that isn’t going to drink itself!

Mathilde Magnier

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An Alpine vineyard with 25 types of grapes, between the mountains and the lakes

With Mont Blanc towering above, the Savoie vineyards display the unexpected richness of the Alps. In between skiing and walking, the white and red wines can be tasted in the most beautiful mountain landscapes, in both summer and winter. 

The Savoie landscapes are world famous for their beauty . Savoie Mont Blanc welcomes lovers of nature or sport , in any season, to the heart of the Alps. Between walks or ski runs, you can also discover another treasure: the Savoie wines. The wine route’s three itineraries cross the Savoie vineyards set among magnificent and contrasting landscapes, interspersed with large lakes (Léman, Bourget, Annecy and Aiguebelette). The route goes past vineyards and wine cellars, which are open for wine tastings . Raised in both the Alpine and winemaking cultures, the winegrowers offer informative walks through the vineyards , workshops about the harvest, and pressings of grapes. See the Savoie region’s architectural history, medieval castles and chateaux set among the mountains, waterfalls and rivers. 

Recognized for their quality , the Savoie wines are essentially divided into reds and whites, but also rosés and sparkling wines (Crémant-de-Savoie). The whites (Chignin, Abymes and Apremont) have contributed to the region’s wine reputation. 

1. Explore an Alpine vineyard: wine tastings, guestrooms in the vineyards, the Museum of Wine and Vines, and numerous local food markets. 

2. Wine and cheese: the perfect match for a wine tasting in the wine cellars, in mountain prairies or at a table in one of the 36 Michelin-starred restaurants in the Savoie Mont Blanc region.

3. Travel in the classic Citroen 2CV for a special trip in the vineyards, where three different circuits are on offer.

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Do you want to leave for the weekend discovering the most beautiful vineyards in France ? We offer you customizable wine tours – gastronomy, well-being, sport or culture – to let everyone find their happiness, from the wine amateur to the neophyte. We invite you to  discover wine through wine cellar tour .

Better than a simple wine tasting course, stay in the domain and enjoy wine workshop at the  wine estate with passionate wine producers. Enjoy a getaway in the vines to visit famous Burgundy vineyards . Would you rather prefer “Champagne”? Opt for a wine stay in the most beautiful vineyards of Champagne . Choose to stay at the Château in the heart of Bordeaux vineyard or immerse yourself in the vineyard of Alsace .

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We think the Rhône Valley is the most exciting wine region in France; from the majesty of Côte-Rôtie in the north to the warmth and generosity of Châteauneuf-du-Pape in the south, there are wines to satisfy all tastes and we'd like to share them with you..

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We pick you up from where you are staying and drop you off again at the end of your day's tour. And because the tour is organised just for you, with no big groups, you have the full attention of your English-speaking driver/guide and you really get to meet the people who run the wine estates and make the wine (don’t worry, we can translate). All you need do is relax, taste and have a good time.

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What could be better than touring Rhône wine country? Perhaps having Rhône wine country come to you!

Our tours are great – or so you tell us (and Tripadvisor!) – but the Rhône valley is long. Even we can’t manage to be in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Condrieu during the same day. So we came up with an answer that means you can taste all of the regions greatest wines, from north to south, in one tasting without having to leave the comfort of your holiday accommodation.

You provide the space - the living room in your gîte or holiday villa, the poolside terrace, even your hotel suite if your hosts agree - and we come to you with everything else from the presenter and the glasses through to a selection of artisan cheeses and charcuterie, not forgetting, of course, a range of beautiful Rhône wines. We even clean up afterwards. There's no easier way to taste the wines of so many great regions.

The tastings are relaxed but informative and perfect for anybody who likes wine, so don't think you need to be an expert. (They're also especially useful if you have children and teenagers in your group and you don't want to drag them from winery to winery.)

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Best Wine Tours In France

Renowned for its exquisite cuisine and excellent wine, France is arguably the best place for a wine tour. With a visit to the French wine-producing regions, you can hardly go wrong, as you taste some of the purest and finest wine. For wine lovers, this will not come as a surprise because the country is where winemaking and viticulture were first refined. When visiting wine tours are a must-do and I hope this list of Best Wine Tours In France will help you out.

Producing about 7 to 8 billion bottles yearly, the French wine regions make up the world’s largest wine producers. To be precise, wine from France accounts for 29.1% of total wine exports worldwide. 

Best French Wine Regions

Bordeaux, Burgundy, Alsace, Champagne, Loire Valley, Provence, and Rhone Valley are the main wine regions in France. These are the primary producers but are other parts that are about wine as well, like the Jura. 

Wine Tour of Bordeaux 

The wine regions of Bordeaux circle the city from Médoc in the north to the most captivating village of St-Émilion, through the Entre-Deux-Mers to the east, and Sauternes to the south. The wine regions in Bordeaux are usually divided into the Left Bank and the Right bank, being split by the Gironde River. Médoc and St-Émilion are areas you should visit, considering the scale of wine production in those areas.

Bordeaux is known to have some of the world’s most expensive wines as they are of deluxe class. The best wine in the region is its reds which are a mixture of Merlot, Cabernet, and Sauvignon. The white wines you will taste in Bordeaux include Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon mixtures. Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle grapes are some of its sweet whites. 

Most wine tours dedicate half-day wine tasting for each city. For example, a half-day Saint-Emilion wine-tasting tour leaves from central Bordeaux and you will not only get to taste Burgundy wine but also stroll the streets. Saint-Emilion has been marked as a UNESCO World Heritage site with the medieval village making some of Bordeaux’s finest wines.

Also, you can visit vineyards as well, as most tourists do. In each major village you reach, ask the local  Maison du Vin , for a comprehensive list of vineyards that you can visit, then taste, and buy. 

La Cite du Vin

La Cite du Vin  was opened in 2016, and it might be a great idea to start your Quest from there. That is a gigantic museum as well as a place of exhibitions that the locals call “the Guggenheim of Wine”. It will offer you a fascinating trip to the world’s vineyards, not the French alone, some cracking exhibits. This entire setup in a technical manner but done in such a way that visitors can concentrate on the story that unfolds, with historical characters, taking them back to the past, demonstrations on winemaking, talks with chefs and winegrowers. 

You can conclude your trip with a wine tasting at the Belvedere, a massive and expanding space that towers over this part of the city. And you might consider trying out some bars too. They are numerous and have a lot to offer. 

Wine Tour of Burgundy

Centering around Beaune, Burgundy is   another of France’s major wine region. Located just a few hours’ drive southeast of Paris, the wine regions of Burgundy include Chablis, Beaujolais, Cote de Nuits, Cote de Beaune, Cote Chalonnaise and Maconnais. Wine product from the area consists of many famous French wines like Chardonnay (White Burgundy), Beaujolais Nouveau and Pinot Noir (Burgundy red wine). Some other types include a small number of sparkling wines and a small number of roses.

Burgundy has a rich tradition of winemaking that dates back 1000 years. It also produces about 15 million cases of wine per year, mostly white, but also red, with  cremant de Bourgogne -a sparkling wine by the Champagne method. 

Add Beaune to your wine-tasting itinerary for a delightful treat. Beaune in Burgundy has been the heart of the wine trade for centuries. You will find cellars to visit and wince shops with s decent range of Burgundies to try and buy. The Ecole des vins (school of wines) offers wine classes for the novice. 

The famous wine auction in the world takes place in aid of the Hospice de Beaune once in every year in the iconic building itself. Called  La Vente des Vins,  and over three days from November 18th to 20th, the charity auction is organized by Christie’s Auction House. While anyone can purchase the wines, it is the professionals and the wealthy collectors that do get involved. This auction is also the reason for one of the great wine festivals. There, the famous names of Burgundy open their cellars and vineyards to offer some incredible tastings which you have to book before your visit. 

Wine Tour of Champagne

Regarded as the queen of drinks, Champagne is pricey when exported. But, if you go around the different, smaller villages, and you will find fabulous, individual vineyards producing low qualities of good Champagne at reasonable prices. Reims, Epernay and around Troyes in the Aube are two major regions in Champagne.

Located in the east close to Belgium and Luxembourg, the area is the country’s coldest winemaking region. Both globally and locally, Champagne is one of the most famous wine regions of France. This is because of its short distance from the capital. And as most know, Champagne is a popular place in France recognized for its sparkling wine that can be called Champagne. 

Apart from the colder climate of this vine region, it lends itself to be perfect for both Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. And as you might observe, Champagne’s white wines are usually crisper, lighter, and less fruity than other places in France.

To enjoy Champagne, there are lots of exciting things to see. And if you happen to be in Reims, stop at one of the top, international Champagne houses for a tour. There are also various things to see in Epernay, where you can stroll along the major street of beautiful 19th-century mansions owned by famous personalities. 

On your tour, the day trip allows you to stop at multiple places where you will learn about the traditions and history of the Champagne area. A stop at Epernay (the world’s most expensive area), Mercier Champagne’s underground cellars are hosting much Champagne. And, the village of Hautvillers is famous for being the place where Champagne was born. In addition, you get to have a taste of three different Champagnes before you take your leave. 

Wine Tour of Loire Valley

Famous for its capacity, Loire Valley in the southwest of Paris is one of the largest wine-producing regions in France. The vineyards in the Lore Valley are known for producing some of the country’s highest quality white wines. And because it is not far from Paris, wine tours from the capital to Loire Valley are often on many tourists’ list of to-dos.

The Pays Nantais, Anjou-Saumur, Touraine, and the central vineyard are the main wine areas in the Loire Valley. 

Wines you will find in Loire Valley are light reds, fruity light reds, crisp, dry sparkling wine, and smooth light reds for your tasting pleasure. When you take a tour to the Loire Valley, you will probably visit two of the best wineries in Loire Valley of the Vouvray Appellation. Not only will you enjoy wine tasting in the region, but you will also have the chance to speak with winemakers. They will be willing to share their tips on winemaking and wine tasting. 

At the tour’s end, you will be able to enjoy sumptuous delicacies like cheese, fresh bread, with a glass of Loire Valley wine. All that while beholding the magnificence of the Lore River.

Wine Tour of Provence

The area ranks high among French wine districts near the Mediterranean coast. Located just a few hours’ drive northwest of Nice, Provence is one of the warmest places in the country. Once given the title of the poorest of the wine-producing regions, Provence today has some premium quality vintages in the world. The best title given to it is Côtes de Provence, with rose predominating. Bandol is another sobriquet that the region has been conferred.

Also, look for the light Côtes du Luberon and Côtes du Ventoux. You should also check out Gigondas from the Dentelles, and the well-known Châteauneuf-du-Pape, that you will find between Avignon and Orange. 

The wine produced in Provence is mainly whites and roses and given the closeness to the southern region of Rhone, the wine Provence is quite similar to the one made in Rhone. The grape varieties you will find in Provence are Grenache, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cinsault. 

Whether it’s a half-day tour or full-day one you have booked ahead, there will always be much to take home from wine tours in Provence. 

You will learn about the winemaking process in the area of Côtes de Provence while seeing a lot of family-owned wineries. You will definitely have the chance to have a taste of delicious Roses, Reds, and Whites at different wineries. Having lunch in a serene village should cap off your visit. 

Wine Tour of Rhône Valley

The impressive Rhône valley wine area spans from Lyon to Orange in Provence, as some wines here are categorized under Provence wines. The valley has beautiful sceneries where the vineyards dot the countryside and climb the steep slopes. The region is most well known for its red wines and is one of France’s major producer and exporter of red wine. 

It is one of the oldest wine regions in France, making wine since around 600BC. The wine country in France is divided into two districts- Northern Rhone and Southern Rhône. Northern Rhône Valley vineyards produce some of the priciest wines in the region. In the Southern Rhône, there are more white wines with blends of Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Roussanne, and Viognier. The southern region’s most famous wine is the Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and this is also the area for the popular Beaumes-de-Venise and Gigondas. 

Wine Tour  of Jura

While the Jura is a beautiful wine region, it is not as big as the others. Therefore tourists often overlook it when drafting their wine-vacation itineraries. Located in the east of France between Burgundy and Switzerland, the place is far too beautiful to be ignored. In fact, it has some unusual wines like the  Vin Jaune,  which is fermented and then stored for 6 years and 3 months. You should also taste V in de Paille,  a sweet wine produced after the grapes have been stored on straw or left hanging from rafters. 

Wine Tour of Languedoc Roussillon 

Fondly called Wine Lake, the Languedoc Roussillon wine region is located in France’s southwest and is the largest wine region in France in terms of vineyard surface and production and is good for buying good quality cheap French wine.

Given the region’s climate (warm with little rainfall), Languedoc Roussillon ranks among the most productive wine regions in the world. The wines produced here are diverse including reds (Merlot to Cabernet Sauvignon to Syrah), whites (Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Grenache, and Muscat Blanc grape types), Vins doux naturels (naturally sweet wines) and Cremant de Limoux. 

Wine Tour of Paris (in and around)

Magnificent Paris is filled with wine bars where you can visit and take a glass at any time of the day. You can try the private Left Bank Wine Tasting and Walk tour, which combines walking in the pedestrian-friendly Left Bank of the city with two wine tastings. One of the tastings is during a stop at a Parisian wine bar. The three-and-half-hour tour also visits the Panthéon, the resting place of the bodies of Voltaire, Rousseau, Mirabeau, Marat, Victor Hugo, and Emile Zola.

To have a good grasp of wines of France, visit the Les Caves du Louvre, which is two minutes from the Louvre. France is an excellent destination for a wine tour as it has a gaping variety of beautiful wineries. As you tour, you will not merely be tasting the goodness of these excellent wines. You will be taught about how each region’s viniculture has shaped the area.

Best Wine Tours In France – Summary

If you are visiting France, you should add these wine-producing areas to your itinerary for some impeccable tasting experiences. And if you are not sure about where to visit, this piece will help you make the right call. You will learn about the French wine regions, vineyards, and the type of wine each produces.

Peter is the editor of France Travel Blog. He has traveled to France many times and is ready to share the knowledge in this travel guide for France.

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I invite you to visit my new wine bar and cave Les Enfants du Rhône Bar à Vin in Condrieu !

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Our tours are for everyone, from experienced wine connoisseurs to beginners.

Discover the Rhône-Alpes region in the relaxed setting that a small group wine tasting offers accompanied by our friendly and experienced local guide.

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Our wine tours can be experienced as a day trip or extended to a few days to suit your schedule. Lyon is just 2 hours from Paris by train.

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The Northern Rhone Valley will keep no secrets from you! Welcome to one of the oldest wine regions in the world, the kingdom of Syrah and Viognier. So many wines to taste and enjoy!

- Tour from 10am - 4pm with lunch - Discover the rich and tannic wines of Côte Rôtie and Saint Joseph, and the prestigious white wine from Condrieu - Tastings in family estates for the enjoyment of fans of Syrah and Viognier with guided tour of their cellar

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Enjoy private access to the Northern Rhone Valley!

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*Please note Sunday tours are 100€ additional*

Tannin Prestige

Leave the city limits of Lyon to spend an easy day in the Northern Rhône Valley to taste local wine and lunch in a small country village.

- Tour from 10am - 4pm - Indulge in the rich and tannic red wines of the Northern Rhône Valley -Discover the floral and fresh viognier varietal and the Condrieu cru - A visit in the country with a tasting at one winery and a private tasting in Condrieu with exceptional wines curated just for you - Pause midday to dine at a local gourmet bistro serving fresh French products

Private Tour : Tannin Express

For the wine lovers searching for private access to the Northern Rhone Valley but don't have the whole day to get away!

- Pickup at 9.30 am or 2pm - Stroll in the vineyards that are home to prestigious Côte Rôtie, Condrieu, and Saint Joseph regions - Visit a reputable domain for an intimate tasting - Finish your experience in Condrieu in the private tasting room of your guide as he shares a list of high-quality wines directly from his personal cellar curated to your taste

VIP Tour : Grand Cru of the Northern Rhône Valley

The best of the Rhône Valley for lovers of exceptional wines!

- Tour from 10am - 6pm - Visit the route of crus from Ampuis to Chavanay, with passage through Condrieu - Walk in the vineyards with explanations of the legendary parcels - Private visit to a renowned domain for tasting of their different vintages - Visit the cellars of the estate and the vineyard - Lunch in a renowned gourmet restaurant - Be among the prestigious appellations of the Rhône Valley - Private tasting of exceptional wines in a private tasting room in Condrieu

Private Tour : Hermitage

Travel towards the Mediterranean, an hour south of Lyon by car, to discover the world-class wine of Hermitage!

- Tour from 9.30am - 6.30pm - Experience the vineyards up close and personal with your personal guide - Visit at reputable domains in Hermitage and surrounding appellations - Lunch at a gourmet bistro midday included - Stay all day in Hermitage or enjoy your final tasting in Côte Rôtie on your way back to Lyon

VIP Tour : Hermitage Luxe

Although Côte Rôtie / Condrieu and Hermitage are still considered the Northern Rhône Valley, discover why these regions have their own distinct character. Spend your day in luxury, including tastings in high-quality domains and a gourmet lunch midday.

- Tour from 9.30am - 6.30pm - Walk in the vineyards while receiving explanations of the legendary parcels - Taste the syrah, marsanne and roussanne of the region - Lunch at a gourmet restaurant in a charming village with incredible landscapes - Private visit of a renowned domain to taste different vintages - Visit the cellars of the estate and the vineyard - Private tasting of exceptional wines in a tasting room in Hermitage *Please ask us the opportunity to enjoy your last tasting in Côte Rôtie on your way back to Lyon*

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Your destination is Beaujolais, "the third river of Lyon" on the Route des Crus of the region: Morgon, Fleurie, and Chiroubles!

- Tour from 10am - 6pm - Travel through the vineyard villages of the Mâconnais vineyard - Prestige tasting at one estate: discover the elegance of Chardonnay - Lunch at a gourmet restaurant with traditional and neat cuisine in a renowned area near the vineyards - Private tasting in a traditional cellar -- a paradise for Gamay lovers -- and discover the most beautiful expressions of this variety in connection with their terroir - Meeting with a winemaker and visit of their cellars and vines - Third tasting in a family estate

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Allow the renowned wine region of Burgundy to seduce you with its legendary pinot noir and chardonnay, its ancient cellars, and its exceptional views of magnificent vineyards.

- Tour from 9am - 7pm - Be among the prestigious appellations of Burgundy - Walk in the vineyards with explanations about the legendary parcels - Private visit of a domain renowned for a great tasting of different vintages - Visit the cellars of the estate and the vineyard - Gourmet lunch in a charming town or in the countryside

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The Loire Valley Is Home to the Grandest Châteaux in France — and Some of the Boldest New Winemakers in the Country

Among the storied castles of the Loire Valley, there is an upstart generation of vintners whose low-intervention wines are redefining old-world style.

Editor's Note: Travel might be complicated right now, but use our inspirational trip ideas to plan ahead for your next bucket list adventure.

On my last trip to France's Loire Valley , back in March 2019, I did something I'd never done before: I visited several châteaux. The statement sounds ridiculous because castles are as common in the region as grains of sand on a beach—it's hard to not stay in one. But as a wine writer, I'm usually tromping around vineyards with a winemaker, crouching down to study gray whorls of elderly grapevines and asking, literally, about the dirt. Holing up in fairy-tale castles? Not so much.

This time, I found myself standing in the highest tower of the Château de Chambord , built by King Francis I as a hunting lodge in the 16th century. Some lodge: 440 rooms, 282 fireplaces, more than 13,000 acres of land. It took 28 years to build. Francis spent less than seven weeks there, total, before he died.

Obviously, a lot has changed since the 1500s, but what's remarkable is that in the Loire, a surprising amount of that change, both in terms of wine and châteaux , has taken place quite recently. Over three decades or so, the Loire has become the heart of France's natural-wine movement. The place is vast, with 87 wine appellations strung along the river, from Muscadet on the coast to Sancerre some 240 miles east, and even beyond.

But throughout the region, you can find members of a loose confederation of raffish producers who are making what are often called minimal-intervention wines. Unlike conventional techniques, their growing and vinification methods eschew chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and artificial yeasts, as well as fining agents (which help improve clarity) and other technological trickery. There's also little or no use of sulfur as a preservative. The results can be intriguing or bizarre; the best are absolutely brilliant, full of a kind of vibrancy that's absent from the average mass-produced bottle.

In the Loire, you can live like a king in the evenings and tromp fields like a farmer during the days. The contrast is enlightening.

In the past few years, the region has also seen a number of grand châteaux reimagined as luxury hotels. In the Loire, you can live like a king (or at least a marquis) in the evenings and tromp fields like a farmer during the days. The contrast is enlightening.

Among those new properties is the spectacular Relais de Chambord . Built for the king's hunting hounds in the 1700s, the original house didn't have the benefit of modern upgrades, such as the rain showers, velvet-swathed headboards, or luxurious white linen sheets seen in today's guest rooms. Nor could the hounds rent an electric bicycle to drive around the property. Odds are the dogs didn't think much about the building's history or their palatial digs. Then again, it's easy to forget the fact that you're sleeping in a former kennel (albeit an opulent one) when you can wake up and gaze out the floor-to-ceiling windows at King Francis's château—just a few hundred feet away.

When I drove into the unpaved courtyard at La Grange Tiphaine , Damien and Coralie Delecheneau's vineyard and winery, about an hour away in the Montlouis appellation, I was greeted by an actual hound. Every Loire Valley winemaker has at least one dog, if not two or three. Typically they growl at you menacingly for about 10 seconds, then flop over in the dirt. This particular winery pup, Lou, didn't even expend that much effort. It was pretty clear he'd rather have been off in the vineyards, chasing rabbits.

Stewards of the shift to low-intervention wine, the Delecheneaus farm biodynamically, upholding all the baseline tenets of the ideology. One reason the Loire arguably became the center of this evolution in France, as Damien Delecheneau explains, is that it's not a wealthy region: "It's just easier for a young winemaker to buy a vineyard here, compared with regions like Burgundy or Bordeaux." Plus, he added, many of the early ambassadors of the natural-wine movement happened to be Loire-based. "The beautiful acidity we have in our wines helps, too, if you choose to work this way."

La Grange Tiphaine's ramshackle character belies the precision of its wine making. "I'm from a scientific background," he says, "but now I look to work more with my heart." His 2018 Clef de Sol Chenin Blanc speaks to that: it's all spring flowers and wildflower honey when you smell it, bright and vivid on your tongue. As we walked between the 80-year-old vines behind the winery, Lou trotted after us, ears perked.

Across the riverfrom La Grange Tiphaine is Domaine Huet , the most acclaimed producer in the Vouvray appellation. Founded in 1928 by Victor Huët, a World War I veteran, it was run for 55 years by his son Gaston Huët, save for five years he spent in a Nazi prisoner-of-war camp northeast of Dresden. He walked back to Vouvray from Germany in 1945 and proceeded to make one of the greatest vintages of the 20th century.

Since 2003, the property has been owned by Hungarian winemaker István Szepsy and New York financier Anthony Hwang; daughter Sarah Hwang runs the winery and lives there. She's well aware of Huet's stellar reputation: "It's something we could choose to embrace or fight against, and we've chosen to embrace it. Ultimately, we're just a few pages in a huge book. Our job is to make sure that the story is still being written, and written properly."

Related : Why Adelaide is Australia's Most Exciting Food and Wine Destination

Huet's Chenin Blancs, dry or sweet, are chiseled and intense—gorgeous white wines that linger on the palate as you drive to the 15th-century Château du Rivau, opened as a 12-room hotel in 2019 that has elegant stone and wood interiors and modern art throughout. Rivau was built in 1420; Joan of Arc stopped by to pick up horses during the Hundred Years' War in her quest to drive the English from France. (Brexit did what martyrs could not, apparently.)

More recently, co-owner Patricia Laigneau tricked out the grounds with a stunning rose garden planted with more than 450 different varieties. "A rose with no scent is like a person with no soul," she said, and suggested walking through the garden in the early morning or early evening, when the flowers are at their most fragrant.

Another equally beautiful 18th-century Neoclassical property is the Hôtel Château du Grand-Lucé , just outside Le Mans. It has grand formal gardens to wander, 17 rooms with original oak parquet floors to park your bags in, and Pratesi sheets on the beds to lounge upon. Should you wish to see the region's châteaux from overhead, the concierge can help arrange a hot-air-balloon ride.

But for me , too much luxury gets cloying. I decided to French Revolution my urge to live like a king and reground myself by heading to Sancerre to meet my friend Pascaline Lepeltier, a Master Sommelier and Loire Valley native. As I drove east, the dramatic châteaux of the central Loire became fewer and farther between. I followed the Loire River as it meandered among rolling hills and forests. I knew I'd reached Sancerre when the flanks of the hills became blanketed with Sauvignon Blanc vines.

That's Sancerre's signature grape. Though there is an actual town of Sancerre (charming; hilltop; medieval), the wine region itself comprises 14 small villages. I met up with Lepeltier for lunch at Momento , which opened last year in the tiny town of Bué.

Good wine tells stories. The right bottle can even let you travel in time.

The owners are a talented young couple, Thomas Jacquet and Mariana Mateos. Jacquet, a sommelier, is originally from nearby Bannay; Mateos, the chef, is from Mexico. They met while working together at Racines , a wine-centric French bistro in New York City where Lepeltier is the head sommelier.

From the small upstairs dining room we could see the rooftops of the town and the vineyards beyond as we enjoyed ravioli filled with earthy crottin de Chavignol goat-milk cheese. We'd been joined by two young Sancerrois winemakers, Matthieu Delaporte and Luc Prieur, whose families have been in the region for generations. Even though Jacquet's wine list at Momento is extensive, Delaporte and Prieur came loaded with cuvées from their own wineries, and pretty soon we were a pretty lively party of four people and 15 or 16 bottles.

Later I asked Delaporte how long his family had been making wine. Since the 17th century, he replied. "We were one of the first domaines in Sancerre-Chavignol; where we're located is where everything started. At that time, they were making wine, raising animals, making cheese."

My favorite of Domaine Delaporte's wines, which we drank at lunch, is its Sancerre Les Monts Damnés—crystalline and powerful at once, it shows how complex Sauvignon Blanc can be in the right circumstances.

"Monts Damnés is kind of a grand cru of Sancerre, even though technically there are no crus here," Delaporte said. "It means 'the damned mountains,' because a hundred years ago you had to be absolutely damned to work that steep a slope. It's forty to fifty degrees! But it's worth it."

When his ancestors were picking grapes on the chalk inclines of Monts Damnés, did they know that the Sun King was building a stable for 1,200 horses only 70 miles away? Probably not. Distances were greater then. Did his grandfather, bottling wines in 1947—a hundred bottles of which Delaporte recently found, in perfect condition, under his grandparents' house—know a Liberator bomber had crashed on the grounds of Chambord just a few years before? Quite possibly. Today, can I taste all those things when I open a bottle of his wine? Imaginatively, maybe.

Good wine tells stories. The right bottle can even let you travel in time. As Delaporte said about those 1947 bottles, "They taste amazing; I thought of my great-grandfather, making wine through both of the world wars." Until I can return to the Loire, I can open a bottle of one of Delaporte's wines and envision myself looking out over the rooftops of Bué into the late afternoon sun, laughing and talking with friends.

Châteaux and Natural Wine in the Loire Valley

Getting there.

From Paris, it's a 2½-hour drive to Tours, in the heart of the Loire Valley, and two more hours to Sancerre.

Where to Stay

Relais de Chambord : The façade of this elegant 55-room hotel echoes the slate-roofed towers of the Château de Chambord , just a short walk away. A guided tour of the château is a highlight, but the Relais also offers a spa with sauna, hammam, and outdoor whirlpool as well as guided tours of the surrounding nature reserve (doubles from $213) .

Hôtel Château du Grand-Lucé : Though this gorgeous Neoclassical château, built between 1760 and 1764, occupies more than 45,000 square feet, there are only 17 (extremely luxurious) guest rooms. Each features original oak floors, archival-fabric wall coverings, and bathroom amenities from cult French beauty brand Buly 1803 (doubles from $715) .

Château du Rivau : Built during the15th century, Rivau has undergone years of renovation, starting in the late 1990s. Walkthrough the fragrant rose gardens, and spot the white peacocks that live in the inner courtyard (kids may prefer the property's many fairy-tale themed gardens). Doubles from $275.

Where to Eat

Momento : Chef Mariana Mateos's menu makes the best of Sancerre's abundant products—crottin de Chavignol cheese, wild herbs, lamb from local farms—while drawing in a few influences from Italy as well. Thomas Jacquet's wine list is impressively extensive. (Entrées $28–$62.)

Wineries to Visit

La Grange Tiphaine Damien and Coralie Delecheneau, the charming owners of La Grange Tiphaine, keep to a low intervention philosophy for their Montlouis and Touraine wines. Book a visit in advance to taste their Côt Vieilles Vignes, a stunning Malbec made with grapes from century old vines.

Domaine Delaporte Delaporte, which makes some of Sancerre's best wines, has a small tasting room in the tiny village of Chavignol.

Domaine Huet Book ahead to visit this legendary Vouvray property. Tastings cover the range of Huet wines, sparkling and still, dry to sweet, along with an older vintage. In-depth cellar tours can also be arranged at [email protected]

How to Book

T+L A-List advisor Shawna Huffman Owen ( [email protected] ; 312-257-2988) can help plan a wine-focused trip throughout the region.

A version of this story first appeared in the September 2020 issue of Travel + Leisure under the headline Natural Sophistication.

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Full-Day Private Northern Rhône Wine Tour from Lyon

We offer 24 hr free cancellation on most of our tours, winery visits and hotels. For more detail please see the individual cancellation policies on the tour, winery or hotel page.

Tour Overview

Discover the legendary Hermitage and Côte Rotie hills and taste exceptional fine wines at two local wineries.

In the morning you will be heading south to the prestigious Côte-Rôtie vineyards. Take a stroll amongst them and learn why this wine is so exceptional. You will immediately be seduced by the magnificent view over the Rhône valley and the steep hillsides of these vineyards.

Delight yourself with a tasting of 5 or 6 different wine varieties, among them Saint-Joseph, Condrieu and Côte-Rôtie AOC. During the tasting, you will appreciate the considerable aromatic richness of these great wines.

There will be free time for lunch. Your guide will be happy to show you good local restaurants.

In the afternoon you will be heading south to the legendary vines of Hermitage. Cultivated on the left banks of the Rhône in a very special terroir, the wines you will discover require high temperatures to produce their particular red fruit and wild flower aromas.

You will start with a breathtaking view overlooking the vines and the Rhône River at the Hermitage hill Belvedere. Your guide will tell you about the story of this mythical wine.

Afterwards, you will visit a local winery and taste 5 or 6 different Côtes du Rhône wine varieties, including the excellent AOC wines: Hermitage and Croze-Hermitage.

What’s included

• Tasting of minimum 5 wines in each winery
• Bilingual chauffeur/guide service
• Visit and wine tastings at two wine estates
• Transportation in a high-class mini van

Meeting point

Your centrally located accommodation in Lyon

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Fully refundable up to 24 hours before departure.

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13 Top French Wine Regions, Cities & Villages to Visit 2024

Best Wine Regions in France to Go Wine Tasting in 2024

France is currently the world’s most popular tourist destination boasting over 80 million visitors each year. Many people think of Paris when they think of France, but the country also plays host to stunning wine regions, destinations, breathtaking mountains, beautiful beaches, and many of the world’s best museums and galleries, making it a travel hotspot for people of all ages and backgrounds.

At Winetraveler, we try to go beyond the wine when we discuss travel destinations. Wine is simply the lubricant that enhances a journey as one traverses a country. That’s why this list includes some of the best wine destinations in France that aren’t just wine-producing areas. It includes cities, towns, and small villages within France that serve as great wine destinations themselves, or work as ideal stopping points along a more holistic itinerary when visiting nearby French wine regions. 

Whether you’re looking for your next summer beach holiday, a fun winter trip, or a cultural excursion, France is one of the best countries you can choose. With multiple international airports to fly into and plenty of great cities, towns, and villages to check out, you can have an unforgettable wine trip in this wondrous country.

Top Wine Regions & Cities in France to Visit This Year

Paris is still the main go-to spot for tourists in France. Couples and families can find plenty of romantic sights, the cuisine is incredible, there are plenty of galleries and museums to check out, and Disneyland Paris is only a short train ride away if kids are in tow.

It also helps that you can visit Paris for surprisingly cheap. Although the city is full of luxurious hotels, you can also find plenty of cheap hotels and Airbnbs if you’re on a budget. You can also choose between world-renowned Michelin-star restaurants and high-end wine bars, or cheap food options. From drinking Champagne on top of the Eiffel Tower, to sunset cruises on the river Seine, there are plenty of interesting sights and activities. If you’re interested in visiting Paris for a few days, we’ve included a link to our tested travel guide below, featuring all of our favorite hotels, restaurants, and things to do.

RELATED: 2 Day Paris Itinerary: A First Timer’s Guide

Although Paris gets all the hype, Nice is arguably an even “nicer” place to visit. This city is situated on the French Riviera, meaning that you’ll be perfectly located between the beach and the French Alps. That means that you could easily spend one day lounging by clear turquoise-blue waters and the next hiking into the nearby mountains.

Nice is full of fun events, including the annual Nice Carnival in February and various festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. It’s also a great place for history lovers due to sights such as the St Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral and Castle Hill Park. To make matters even sweeter, you can easily take a day trip to Monaco for gambling and fun as it’s only a 30-minute ride away. Alternatively, you can spend days enjoying the culinary delights, museums, and galleries of Nice.

Marseille is a beautiful spot in the Provence region and a perfect choice for those who want a lively yet scenic destination. Marseille is right by the beach and it’s also a hotspot for nature lovers as you can take in the scenery by windsurfing, mountain biking, sailing, or simply hiking through the nearby trails.

RELATED: Best Provence Wine Tastings, Tours & Vineyard Experiences

It’s also a great hub for day trips. You can use Marseille as a hub to take trips into the beautiful countryside of Provence, including towns like Gordes and Saignon. It’s also a short 30-minute drive from Massif des Calanques, one of the most incredible national parks in the entire country full of breathtaking natural sights.

Ok, we admit it. We love Provence. Moving on from larger cities in the region like Nice and Marseille, it’s well worth a stop at some of the smaller and truly picturesque hilltop villages. Gordes is one such village with all of the quaint, small-town, cobblestone street charm you can expect to find. For sweeping views of the Provencal countryside, affordable apéritifs and endless dry rosé wine by the glass, be sure to stop at boutique restaurant and bar La Trinquette , serving up modern French cuisine on one of the best balconies in the town.

RELATED: Top Luxury Resorts & Wineries To Visit in Provence

For an equally scenic and historic hilltop village not far from Gordes, be sure to stop by Bonnieux. We recommend planning a lunch in Gordes, followed by a wine tasting at nearby Domaine de la Citadelle , and ending with dinner at 2-star Michelin restaurant La Bastide de Capelongue .

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Not far from Gordes lies the utterly picturesque and historic village of Saint-Rémy. This small village folded into the sweeping green valleys of Provence has a big heart, beating with some of the best cuisine in the region, boutique wine shops, and ancient streets.

Historic is an understatement when mentioning Saint-Rémy. It was once the ancient Roman city of Glanum, and still plays host to its ruins and the quarry that was once used to build much of its stone structures. Moving on through the centuries, it became something of an artist and philosopher’s pilgrimage, with Van Gogh and others producing a number of famous works here. It’s also where Nostradamus was born, and you can still walk by what remains of that house today.

Wine lovers will already be familiar with the wine region of Bordeaux . But it’s also a city. This gorgeous French city is known as the wine capital of the world and you won’t be short on options whether you’re looking for a fancy wine bar, a wine-tasting event, or a tour of the nearby vineyards. It’s also one of the best places for foodies as it’s full of Michelin-star restaurants as well as plenty of more affordable options.

Even if you’re not looking for world-class wine and cuisine, you can find plenty of fun things to do here. The city is jam-packed with attractions such as the Water Mirror, Porte Cailhau, and many markets, museums, bars, and clubs. Alternatively, you could have a relaxing day biking along the waterfront and taking in the stunning architecture and great weather.

RELATED: 30 Must-Visit Wineries in the Bordeaux Region

Continuing on with wine-themed destinations, Champagne provides the perfect mix of delectable bubbles, luxurious architecture, unmatched scenery, and cataclysmic history. While you could easily spend several days staying in the region, it’s also easily accessible from Paris and makes for the perfect day or weekend trip. We discuss an ideal 2-day Champagne itinerary right here.

When we mention history in Champagne, we aren’t just talking about winemaking (though this is impressive in its own right), but it has also been a sought-after region for settlement dating  back well before the Celtic and Roman periods. In addition, it has seen its fair share of warfare, with the World War I battlefields of Verdun and others just a short drive away from Champagne’s vineyard setting. This is a great region to visit for the sophisticated wine lover and history buff with a keen interest in sparkling wine.

RELATED: The Battle of Verdun: How To Visit the Battlefield Near Champagne, France

If you’re a fan of winter sports, Chamonix is the place for you. This world-renowned resort destination is located right on the border between France, Italy, and Switzerland and allows you to ski and snowboard through the alps while enjoying the amazing mountain sights. You can also take a cable car into Italy or check out attractions such as the Parc de Merlet or the ice sculptures of Grotte de Glace.

However, Chamonix isn’t just for winter lovers. In the summer you can go here to hike through the Alps, mountain bike through the trails, or even rent an e-bike to take in the sights. It’s also a hotspot for paragliding, golfing, and watersports. It’s basically the perfect playground for outdoor activities throughout any season.

Cannes is a top resort town on the French Riviera, meaning that you’ll get excellent beaches and stunning natural views if you choose to stay here. The town is mainly known for the Cannes Film Festival, which allows the general public to check out new films via open-air screenings. However, it also offers plenty of other activities.

Whether you want to go sailing, check out historical sites, or just chill on the beach and enjoy some ice cream, you can have an amazing time in Cannes. It’s also close to golf courses, national parks, and other French hotspots like Nice and Saint-Tropez, so you have plenty of choices for day trips.

Nimes is an underrated gem in France, especially for history lovers. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported into another country here due to the abundance of Roman architecture. It’s often described as the most Roman city in France due to sights such as the Arena of Nimes, Jardin de La Fontaine, Temple de Diane, and the Maison Carrée Roman temple.

If you’ve ever felt like attending an event in a Roman amphitheater, the Arena of Nimes now hosts shows from world-famous music artists such as Foo Fighters, Gorillaz, and Deep Purple. It’s also used as a bullfighting arena during May. Outside of the Roman sights, you can find plenty of museums, art galleries, and delicious French food stalls. You can also take trips to Marseille, Massif des Calanques, and the Provence countryside.

The Loire Valley

From Vouvray, to Touraine, Saumer, Sancerre and beyond, the Loire Valley is a Winetraveler’s paradise. Whether you’re into red wines, white wines, sparkling wines or rosé, there is something for everybody’s palate in the Loire. Aside from high-quality juice, it’s also home to the highest density of castles in France as well as the country’s longest river.

If you’re interested in feeling like royalty for a day (or several), while enjoying premium Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc, and even Chenin Blanc, the Loire is for you. Wine lovers will also appreciate the quality of sparkling wine (called Crémant here) coming out of the Saumer sub-region if you know where to look.

FUN FACT: The Loire Valley is France’s #2 sparkling wine-producing region by quantity.

RELATED: Essential Touraine Travel Guide: Explore the Heart of the Loire Valley

One of the most underrated wine regions in France, Languedoc is well worth a visit for any number of reasons. From a scenic perspective, Languedoc offers up a little bit of everything. Here you can expect rolling hills and valleys as far as the eye can see, tiny picturesque French villages, snow-capped mountains, and turquoise blue coastal views. Therefore, it’s an ideal French wine destination that works for any time of year.

Most consumers who are new to the wine world have rarely sampled wines from the Languedoc-Roussillon region (or maybe you have and not known it), but it’s actually France’s largest wine-producing region and vineyard area. Wine production in Languedoc dates back (as far as we know) to the Greeks during the 5th century BC.

RELATED: Languedoc Itinerary: Essential Wineries, Hotels & Restaurants Near Montpellier & Pézanas

Lille is another one of France’s most underrated cities. Lille is the lively capital of the Hauts-de-France in Northern France known for its amazing local markets, delicious food stalls, and fun nightlife. As well as sampling amazing French cheese it’s also a hotspot for beer and waffles, which might have something to do with its proximity to Belgium.

The city is incredibly affordable compared to other cities such as Paris and Lyon while still offering plenty to do. It’s also an excellent hub for day trips. Not only is Paris just a one-hour train ride away, but you can also cross the border into Belgium and visit gems such as Brussels or Bruges.

Frequently Asked Questions about French Wine Regions

What are the best french wine regions to visit.

Embarking on a journey through the French wine regions is a delightful adventure that promises to tantalize your senses and broaden your horizons. Each region offers its own unique charm and allure, as well as distinct wine varietals and traditions. Here’s a snapshot of some of France’s most famous wine regions to help you decide which ones to visit: Start your exploration in Bordeaux , home to some of the world’s most prestigious wines. This must-visit region will captivate you with its stunning châteaux, picturesque vineyards, and charming villages. Here, you’ll find exceptional red wines, primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc grape varieties. Next, head to Burgundy , where the rolling hills and medieval architecture provide the perfect backdrop for sipping on the region’s renowned Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. The area is also famous for its rich culinary traditions, offering you the opportunity to savor local dishes alongside your wine tastings. For a taste of effervescence, make your way to Champagne , the birthplace of the world-famous sparkling wine. Wander through the region’s historic vineyards and underground cellars, and raise a toast to the luxurious and celebratory nature of Champagne itself. Alsace , nestled along the German border, boasts a unique blend of French and German influences, which is evident in both its architecture and its wines. This picturesque region is known for its aromatic white wines, such as Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris. Stroll through the charming half-timbered villages and revel in the breathtaking scenery. The enchanting Loire Valley , famous for its fairytale castles, is also home to a diverse range of wines. From crisp Sauvignon Blanc to earthy Cabernet Franc, there’s something for everyone in this lush and scenic region. Finally, venture to the Rhône Valley , where the sun-drenched vineyards produce powerful red wines, like Syrah and Grenache, as well as fragrant whites, like Viognier and Marsanne. The region’s landscape varies from the steep terraces of the north to the flatter, more expansive vineyards of the south, offering a striking contrast in scenery.

What are some of the best wine cities in France to visit?

France is home to numerous cities that are renowned for their wine culture and proximity to famous wine regions. Some of the best wine cities in France include Bordeaux, the epicenter of the illustrious Bordeaux wine region, known for its elegant reds and historic châteaux. Beaune , the unofficial capital of Burgundy, offers a charming setting to taste exquisite Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. Epernay and Reims, situated in the heart of the Champagne region, are perfect destinations for bubbly enthusiasts, with their historic houses and underground cellars. Strasbourg, in the Alsace region, is the ideal base for exploring aromatic white wines and enjoying its Franco-Germanic charm. Finally, Avignon, located in the heart of Provence, offers easy access to the sun-kissed vineyards of the Rhône Valley and its bold reds and fragrant whites. Each of these cities not only offers exceptional wine experiences but also rich cultural and historical attractions to explore.

When is the best time to visit French wine regions?

The best time to visit French wine regions is generally between April and October , with the harvest season typically occurring between September and October . During these months, the weather is pleasant, and many wineries offer special events and tastings.

Can I bring wine back from France to my home country?

Yes, most countries allow travelers to bring a wine back for personal consumption, but you should check the specific customs regulations for your home country before making any purchases. Check out our guide to the best wine bags and suitcases for traveling with wine .

Book a trip!

It’s no surprise that France is a globally renowned hotspot for wine travelers. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway to the French countryside, a relaxing weekend trip to the beaches, or an adventure-filled trip to the Alps, the country offers all of that and more. Not to mention some of the world’s best cheese and wine.

These are thirteen of the best places to visit in France and all of them are worth checking out. However, if none of these destinations suit your fancy, there are plenty of other great spots to check out, including Saint-Tropez, Caen, Nantes, Toulouse, and Montpellier. No matter where you choose to go, you’re sure to be charmed by this European gem.

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TRAVEL CONSULTATION

• Northern France Tour - Small Group

Exquisite wine and charming countryside

From 9 days

Small group tour

6-12+ hours

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Things You'll See During Your Tour

Join a small group and embark on a Northern France Tour with Tourlane. Whether it’s fresh oysters in Normandy, or crisp white wine in the Loire Valley, each stop on your tour is packed with artisan delicacies. After landing in Paris, make your way through the cozy countryside of Northern France on a premium mini-coach, where you’ll discover medieval villages and grand chateaus that ooze sophistication. With Tourlane, you’re able to book everything in advance from the comfort of your own home - transfers, accommodations, and guides are all included!

1. Honfleur

Start your tour in Honfleur, in the idyllic gardens of Claude Monet. Cross the water lily bridge made famous by this pioneer of impressionism and learn about a great artist’s life. Continue with the flora theme at the historic Arboretum d’Harcourt at Château d’Harcourt alongside your experienced tour guide. Later, visit one of the local orchards for a cup of fresh cider and see the sunset over Honfleur’s 17th-century harbor.  In the evening, drink some local wine and watch the sunset in downtown Honfleur.

2. Arromanches-les-Bains, Normandy

If Normandy’s windswept beaches could talk, the story would take your breath away. Visit the spot where Allied troops landed on D-Day, 1944 and pay your respects to the fallen soldiers at the American Cemetery and Memorial at Colleville-sur-Mer. You will spend a night in the charming town of Arromanches-les-Bains, within walking distance of the beach. 

3. Mont Saint-Michel

Cross the tidal causeway to the extraordinary Mont Saint-Michel, a tiny island town overlooked by a medieval abbey. This magical place is one of the most spectacular sights nationwide. You’ll be spellbound by the way the fairytale-like settlement rises so steeply out of the water in the distance. Next, it’s back on the private coach to visit Menhir de Champ-Dolen - a registered monument that is also the tallest stone in Brittany. 

Get a taste of how village life is in northern France in Dinan, where half-timbered houses line cobbled streets. We recommend exploring its beautiful medieval alleys, and taking a river cruise. Snap a selfie with the 13th-century ramparts before the sun goes down and it’s time for a traditional crêperie dinner. 

5. Angers and Chinon

Next, you’ll head south to the Loire Valley. What was once a strategic stronghold for French kings is now the ultimate destination for indulgent food, wine, and landscapes. In the daytime, you’ll get to know the medieval city of Angers, home to a spectacular cathedral and a vibrant central district. After this, Chinon is next up - a delightful historic town in the heart of the Loire Valley, home to Chinon wine that is well worth sampling. During your two-night stay in Chinon, you will also visit the Château de Villandry - an impressive country house set among extensive, opulent gardens. 

6. Maintenon

During the day, your tour will involve a visit to one of the highlights of the entire northern France tour - the Château de Chenonceau. This truly unique castle is actually built above water! The River Cher runs below its majestic arches, a sight you’ll remember long after your trip is over. You’ll also have time to explore the luscious gardens. Finally, you’ll spend a night in the historic town of Maintenon.

7. Chartres

On your way back to Paris, you’ll have one final stop - a visit to Chartres Cathedral, which is a fitting finale for our tour and the icing on the cake. This is one of the best examples of Gothic architecture in France – and a beautiful final image to end your northern France tour with. Finally, your guide will drop you in Paris, ready for your return flight home. 

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