Table of contents
France: A Diverse Cruise Destination and Elegant Departure Point
France, renowned for its rich culture, exquisite cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes, offers cruise travelers a wealth of fascinating destinations and important departure ports for international voyages. From the glamorous beaches of the Côte d'Azur to the picturesque harbor towns of Normandy, a cruise in France promises cultural diversity, impressive architecture, and culinary highlights. The best time for cruises in France is between April and October, when pleasant temperatures and longer days prevail. Numerous French and international cruise lines offer diverse routes that allow travelers to discover the beauty and history of the country.
Highlights of a France Cruise
A France cruise offers a mix of historic cities, scenic coastlines, and modern metropolises. We've compiled the most exciting regions and their attractions for you.
Marseille - Gateway to the Mediterranean
- The Vieux-Port (Old Port) is the vibrant heart of the city with numerous restaurants and cafes.
- The Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde offers a breathtaking view over the city and the Mediterranean Sea.
- The Château d'If, a fortress island off the coast, is famous from Alexandre Dumas' "The Count of Monte Cristo".
Nice - Pearl of the Côte d'Azur
- The Promenade des Anglais is perfect for a stroll along the Mediterranean coast.
- The Old Town (Vieux Nice) enchants with its colorful houses and winding alleys.
- The Cours Saleya hosts a famous flower and food market.
Le Havre - Gateway to Normandy
- The Church of St. Joseph is an impressive example of modern architecture.
- The Musée d'art moderne André Malraux (MuMa) houses one of the largest Impressionist collections in France.
- An excursion to Étretat offers spectacular views of the famous chalk cliffs.
This is just a small selection of the wealth of fascinating destinations you can experience on a cruise in and from France.
The Best Time for France Cruises
The ideal time for a cruise in France is between April and October. During these months, the most pleasant temperatures and longest daylight hours prevail.
- April to June: Spring, temperatures between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), ideal for city sightseeing and coastal excursions
- July to August: High summer, temperatures around 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), perfect for beach visits and outdoor activities
- September to October: Early autumn, temperatures between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), pleasant for sightseeing and wine tastings
It should be noted that the weather in France can vary depending on the region.
Packing List for Your France Cruise
- Comfortable walking shoes for city tours
- Light clothing for warm days, but also a jacket for cooler evenings
- Elegant attire for evening events on board and visits to upscale restaurants
- Swimwear and sun protection for beach visits
- Camera for the many sights
- Small French dictionary or a translation app
- Adapter for power outlets (Type C and E are used in France)
More Practical Tips for Your France Cruise
- Take the opportunity to try local specialties such as croissants, baguettes, cheese, and wine
- In most restaurants and cafes, a tip is expected (about 10-15%)
- Public transportation in French cities is efficient, especially in Paris
- Many museums have a free admission day per month, inform yourself in advance
Which Cruise Lines Offer France Cruises?
France is both a popular cruise destination and an important departure point for international cruises. Here are some of the major cruise lines offering France cruises:
Costa Cruises
Costa Cruises offers numerous routes with stops in French ports.
- Fleet: Over 15 ships
- Route offerings: Western Mediterranean with stops in Marseille, Nice, Corsica
- Specialties: Italian flair, family-friendly offerings
- Popular routes: 7-day Western Mediterranean cruises with multiple stops in France
- More information: Costa Cruises
MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises includes French ports in many of their Mediterranean routes.
- Fleet: Over 20 ships worldwide
- Route offerings: Western Mediterranean, with visits to Marseille and other French ports
- Specialties: International atmosphere, modern ships
- Popular routes: 7-day Mediterranean cruises with stops in France
- More information: MSC Cruises
Ponant
Ponant is a French luxury cruise line offering unique routes along the French coast.
- Fleet: 12 luxury expedition ships
- Route offerings: Mediterranean, Atlantic coast, river cruises on the Seine
- Specialties: Luxurious, intimate atmosphere, focus on French culture and gastronomy
- Popular routes: Cruises along the French Riviera, Corsica, and Atlantic coast
- More information: Ponant
CroisiEurope
CroisiEurope specializes in river cruises and offers numerous routes on French rivers.
- Fleet: Over 50 river cruise ships
- Route offerings: Seine, Rhône, Garonne, Loire, and other French rivers
- Specialties: Intimate atmosphere, French cuisine on board
- Popular routes: Paris and the Seine, Burgundy and Provence on the Rhône
- More information: CroisiEurope
Conclusion: France - Versatile Cruise Destination and Elegant Departure Point
A cruise in and from France offers a unique mix of cultural diversity, historical sights, and culinary delights. From the sun-drenched beaches of the Côte d'Azur to the picturesque villages of Normandy - France promises a journey that will delight both art lovers and gourmets.
Prepare for a journey of discovery that will open up new perspectives on a fascinating country. Have a great trip and "Bon voyage"!