The world’s second smallest country, Monaco clusters on France’s Mediterranean coastline and is renowned for its luxurious lifestyle and yacht-filled harbour. It’s home to the Circuit de Monaco where the prestigious Grand Prix takes place, as well as upmarket casinos, designer boutiques and an energetic nightlife. A stone’s throw from the glitz and glamour nestles the charming old town and the impressive Prince's Palace fortress, together with the famous Salle Garnier opera house.

Founded by the Greeks in 600 BC, Marseille is a dynamic and multicultural city along the Provençal coast. At its heart lies the beautiful Old Port where fishmongers sell their catch along the yacht-filled quay while handicraft boutiques and traditional cafes cluster in the ancient neighbourhood of Le Panier. Soak up the magnificent views from the Basilica of Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde and discover the region’s fascinating immigration history at the MuCEM museum.

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.

One of France’s most multicultural hubs, Montpellier is a thriving university city that’s situated near the Mediterranean coast. Wander through the stately Antigone district that is lined with monumental neoclassical buildings and admire the spectacular Gothic towers of the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre. Adjacent lies France’s oldest botanical gardens, the Jardin des Plantes, while the Musée Fabre should not be missed for its outstanding collection of European paintings and exquisite ceramics.

Nicknamed “La Ville Rose” for its rose-coloured terracotta architecture, Toulouse lies on a bend in the Garonne River and serves as the enchanting capital of Occitanie. Cycle, boat or stroll along the 17th-century Canal du Midi and discover the beauty and tranquility within the Convent of the Jacobins. Tour the Airbus factory to see how A380s and Concordes are manufactured, then sample Toulouse’s renowned gastronomy while feasting on cassoulet.

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.