France Cruises
Cruise to France in 2025
A treasure trove of cultural attractions and iconic landmarks, world-renowned wine and a culinary reputation to match, France is a top cruise destination. We provide a number of cruises to France which visit cultural cities, centuries-old harbour towns and traditional villages.
If you are looking for warmer weather with a dusting of French elegance and glamour, then a cruise to the south of France and the French Riviera is the perfect choice.
Cruises to France
Why to cruise to France?
Fascinating history
France has a rich heritage to discover. From the its Revolution to the Napoleonic Wars, trace France’s past in every destination on curated excursions or independent exploration. Discover World War history on the summit of Mount Faron from Toulon, feel the legacy of Napoleon Bonaparte on the picturesque island of Corsica and learn about Louis XIV in Port Vendres.
Scenic landscapes
With white-washed houses, clear water and a mountainous backdrop, coastal France offers great views wherever you travel. The French Riviera is particularly attractive, with days ashore in Marseilles, Monaco, Corsica and Toulon.
To make the most of the scenery you could join an optional scenic cruise among the Massif des Calanques, steeped walled inlets and bays of Calanques National Park from Toulon. You can also gain panoramic views over Corsica from the fortifications of Calvi.
Food and wine
France is known for its gastronomy, particularly its range of over 1,200 types of cheese, and wine. There are plenty of opportunities to savour France’s culinary delights on both independent exploration and on curated excursions.
Dotted around harbours you will find a variety of restaurants, cafés, boulangeries and patisseries to sample iconic French delicacies. We also offer optional excursions to taste the wines of Provence in Marseilles and a tasting of Bordeaux’s fine wines in the Margaux Wine District.
The perfect climate
With cooler northern provinces and a Mediterranean south, France is comfortable to explore all year round. Summer temperatures in the south average around 30°C with a refreshing sea breeze.
Top France cruise excursions
Choose from a variety of optional excursions on our cruises to France, bringing each destination to life.
Cassis and Calanques
Before exploring Cassis, board a small boat to cruise among the Massif des Calanques, the steep-walled inlets and bays of the Calanques National Park. This network of canyon-like inlets is one of the geological marvels of southern France. Beneath the surface of these towering rock formations lie caves once inhabited by Neolithic man, now accessible only to divers.
After your 45-minute boat trip, you have free time to explore the Provençal port of Cassis. A former Roman trading post, the fishing village of Cassis is now home to quays lined with cafes and restaurants, and a picturesque old town.
France cruising tips
Like most countries of western and central Europe France uses the euro, similar in value to pound sterling. To make the most of your time ashore we recommend bringing some cash on your cruise to France, as some markets and boutiques may not take card payments.
The main language of France is French, but between 30-50% of the population speak English, particularly in popular destinations, though people in rural areas may speak limited English.
The average temperature in southern France is 30°C in summer and the French Riviera is the warmest area of the country. Temperatures in early spring and autumn remain mild at around 16°C and in winter rarely dip below 5°C.
The best time to cruise to France is in spring or early autumn, when the temperatures are warm and the towns and cities see fewer visitors.
You will not need to pack your woolly jumpers or thick coats on a cruise to southern France. Instead, opt for light pieces such as t-shirts, linen trousers and shorts, though please note that you should dress more conservatively when visiting religious sites and buildings. Comfortable shoes and a light layer to add in the evenings are always recommended.
The glorious weather, the history and architecture, the charming towns and cities, the food and wine – there are so many reasons why France is a popular cruise destination. Why not find out for yourself on an all-inclusive luxury cruise to France next year?
Learn more about France
If you would like to learn more about what you can expect on a France cruise, take a look at our destination blog.
Read our blogOur other Mediterranean cruise destinations
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