Serving as the gateway to the Loire Valley, Tours is a vibrant university town that’s surrounded by vineyards and historic chateaux. It’s home to the spectacular Gothic architecture of the Saint-Gatien Cathedral and the Musee de l’Hotel Goüin where exhibits detailing the history and culture of the Loire Valley are showcased. Admire the impressive 15th-century collection at the Musée des Beaux-Arts, then picnic with the locals in the tranquil Jardin Botanique.

Located at the heart of its world-renowned wine-growing region, Bordeaux is a vibrant port city on the banks of the Garonne River. It’s the largest urban UNESCO World Heritage Site on earth, home to beautifully restored mansions and the soaring Gothic spires of the Cathédrale Saint-André. Wander through the impressive Musée des Beaux-Arts, one of France’s largest art galleries, then admire the wine-inspired architecture of Le Cité du Vin.

Featuring beautifully preserved medieval architecture, Sarlat-la-Canéda is a picturesque town set amidst the rugged landscapes of Dordogne. Ride the glass elevator up to the bell tower of beautiful Sainte-Marie Church for magnificent views of the pastel-coloured buildings and sample locally-produced foie gras in the lively produce market. Then venture into the UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscapes of the Vézère Valley to witness its prehistoric cave art. Screen reader support enabled.

Nestled in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of Southern France, Beziers is an ancient town that remains somewhat of a hidden gem. It’s dominated by the striking Gothic architecture of the Saint-Nazaire Cathedral and boasts one of the largest bullrings in France. Admire the personal art collection of French Resistance member Jean Moulin at the Musée des Beaux Arts and soak up the viticultural landscapes on a cycling wine tour through the picturesque surrounds.

Overlooking the Rhône River in south-eastern France, Avignon lies at the heart of an historic region that exemplifies the lifestyle and atmosphere of Provence. Tour the immense and UNESCO-listed Palais des Papes that served as the 14th-century seat of the Catholic popes and marvel at the beautifully preserved ancient aqueduct of Le Pont du Gard, then follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh in the picturesque town of Arles.

Renowned for producing the widely popular Beaujolais Nouveau, Beaujolais is a historic region that boasts a long tradition of winemaking. Enjoy scenic drives through the picturesque vineyards and stop to taste Beaujolais’ renowned red at the rustic cellar doors. Then admire the 12th-century stone Church of Saint-Nicolas in the former capital of Beaujeu and explore the contemporary works at the Museum Paul Dini in the lively hub of Villefranche-sur-Saône.

Surrounded by the vineyards of the Côte d’Or, Beaune is a charismatic walled city that has a reputation as the best place to sample Burgundy wines. It serves as the gateway to the charming villages and valleys of the Pays Beaunois, as well as being home to the medieval hospice of the Hôtel-Dieu. Admire its eccentric Gothic architecture and explore the fascinating museum where

Situated in the northwest corner of Burgundy, Chablis nestles in a cool-climate wine-making district that’s famed for its Chardonnay. The town is clustered with medieval houses, charismatic churches and a 15th-century synagogue, as well as featuring a traditional wine press once used by local makers. Stroll along the banks of the River Serein to the fortified Mirau Aval Tower, then relax with a glass of locally crafted white at one of the alfresco restaurants.

Famed for producing the sparkling white wine that bears its name, Champagne is a UNESCO-listed viticultural region in France’s northeast. Enjoy a scenic drive along the Champagne Routes that wind through picturesque villages and past cellar doors where you can discover the region’s long-established traditions. Tour the historic wine cellars of the Maison de Champagne, then discover the eclectic range of bars along Place d'Erlon in the unofficial capital, Reims.

Sprawling along the River Seine, Paris is the enchanting French capital and serves as a global hub for the arts, fashion and gastronomy. Its instantly recognisable architectural landmarks include in the Eiffel Tower and the cathedral of Notre Dame, together with world-class museums like the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay. Wander through the bohemian streets of Montmartre, go shopping in the designer boutiques along Rue Saint-Honoré and discover France’s inspiring gastronomy in its sidewalk cafes.