gourmet tours of france

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Food & Culinary Tours in France

From Paris pâtisserie bars filled with croquembouche and croissants to the Alps where creamy fondues and charcuterie boards are on the menu! French cuisine is not just about frogs legs and snails, these gastronomical wonders have inspired many filmmakers, and there's no better way to try them for yourself than on a food tour of France. From Burgundy vineyard tours to luxury dining experiences on the French Riviera , what are you waiting for? Bon appétit!

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26 food & culinary tour packages in france with 11 reviews.

• Food & Culinary

A Taste of Southern France - Bordeaux to Toulouse

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Bubbly Grand Tour: From Champagne to Bourgogne

• Wine tasting

Food and Wine in a French Chateau (4 Days)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Discovery of the Hinterland of Provence

Outstanding service from Simon in Marseille who organised all the bookings for us. The dinner at Mikal Favel was outstanding as was the e-bike Tour in the steps of Cezanne.

Cultural and Gourmet Tour in Provence

This trip is ideal if you want to admire the Provence region off the beaten track; its small villages, its gastronomy, its colors and its smells... What a week!

• Self-Guided Cycling

Dordogne Valleys and Villages Cycling

Self guided cycle tour. The gps app was easy to use and kept us on track. The route was certainly hilly but we two 70+ coped without problems. The dinners were very good with a preponderance of duck and foie gras.

• River Cruise

Sensations of Lyon and Provence & Paris (Start Nice, End Paris)

• Hiking & Trekking

Gourmet Walking in Burgundy's Vineyards

Taste of Bordeaux 2023

The Valleys of the Rhône and Saône: Gastronomy and vineyards (port-to-port cruise)

Grand Gastronomic Cruise on the Rhine (port-to-port cruise)

In-depth Discovery of the French Riviera & Provence

Our trip to france went very well thanks to Simon and his team. The tour was really well organized, so we had plenty of time to discover all the must-see places in Provence and the Côte d'Azur. These two regions are truly beautiful, and I highly recommend a visit. The organization was perfect due to good communication. Ella

7 Days All Inclusive in Alsace Authentic Luxury Gourmet Tour

Thank you, Francois, for hosting an amazing vacation experience for me and Rachel. When I first found your site and the descriptions of your Voyages, it struck a chord in me, and felt like the perfect trip. The challenge for me was that my wife is not nearly so keen on a vacation that revolves around food and wine as I am, but being such an amazing partner, she agreed to go anyway. Fast forward to the actual trip, and I have to say that not only were my high expectations exceeded, but the balance of activities and the little “extras” that can only be provided by someone that truly loves the area had Rachel enjoying the experience so much that she’s eager for another voyage! Beginning with the open dialog we had pre-booking, into a first day full of surprises and each eye-opening day after, you were the perfect host; part chef, part tour guide, part traveling companion and a pleasure to be around at all times. The balance between the culinary and the cultural was spot on; the pacing was excellent, and the open nature of the agenda allowed for a wonderful mixture of flexibility and surprise. Oh, and BTW your skills in the kitchen are no joke; I learned a lot every day I was there and the only disappointment is that I can’t seem to find good product here in the US to try and replicate many of the dishes we had. ☹ The little personal touches stood out; flowers and plums from your father’s home (I REALLY miss the Mirabelle’s..), a visit to the Murbach Abbey (where your parents were married) and the way you were able to share your pride and pleasure in the wonders of Alsace made this far more than just another tour. As to the Voyage itself? Sure, we saw the castles (Konigsburg!) and the churches (Mont Saint-Odile was amazing!) and wandered around the lovely villages and towns – and all of that was incredible. That said, to me the real standout experiences were things that one normally wouldn’t get to experience, like the Winemakers Festival in Eguisheim, the Ecomusee d’Alsace (loved the shave BTW!), the unscheduled stop at the Ingersheim Flea Market, the post-closing Eaux de Vie tasting at Bollenberg, mushroom hunting in the mountains, impromptu grape picking (for the quail dinner) and the hilarious argument at Boulangerie Turlupain. Talk about authenticity! I can’t wait for my next Voyage; I’m hoping to get a few friends to join us next time. In the meantime, I have to say that I can’t recommend your service highly enough. Anyone who has a love for food, wine, culture, history, architecture and a wonderful adventure would have a wonderful time on one of your Voyages. Or better yet, on TWO!!!

Authentic Normandy: Charming Villages, Traditional Food, and Classic Sites (port-to-port cruise)

From the French Basque Country to Bordeaux - Fine French cuisine at the foot of the Pyrenees and an escapade in the Gironde

What people love about food & culinary tours in france.

I had a really wonderful time on this holiday. Aix is beautiful and the hotel was fantastic, perfectly situated in the middle of Aix. The daily excursions were excellent. Travelling in an 8 seater is a great way to get to know people. The guides were amusing and encouraged us to talk. Restaurant meal was excellent. Altogether a brilliant 5 days. Great for a recharge of batteries. Lots of variety without being exhausted. Thank you Simon for your organisation. Only glitch was the beginning when the taxi driver from the station was held up and I wasn’t sure what to do, also a little mix up with the hotel about payments. These were soon solved by contact with Simon who was very helpful. Thanks for everything.

Regions in France

• Southern France (14)

Travel Styles

• 10 Best Food & Culinary Tours 2024/2025
• France Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 10 Day France Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 7 Day France Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

Whether haute cuisine or hearty homemade dishes, food is serious business for the French…

France is a foodie’s dream. Around every corner you’ll find open-air markets, patisseries, boulangeries, bakeries, and of course, world-class wine shops.

Come fall in love with this fascinating land through an unforgettable French cooking vacation with its two most essential ingredients: food and wine.

Our France Cooking Vacations

• All Regions
• Multiple Regions
• Paris (Ile de France)
• Provence/Cote d'Azur
• Southwest France
• Active Trips
• Best Sellers
• Best Winter Cooking Vacations & Tours 2024
• Family Friendly
• Good for Solos
• Hidden Gems
• Intensive Cooking
• Luxury Line
• Michelin Star Experiences
• Off the Beaten Path
• Romantic Getaways
• Staff Favorites
• Wine Themed

TRIP LENGTH

PRICE RANGE

Intensive French Cooking Holiday: Farm to Table Culinary Vacation

5 or 6 Nights Starting At $4,280

Deluxe Southern France Culinary Tour

5 Nights Starting At $5,425

Luxury Food Tour of Northern France

4 Nights Starting At $3,995

Normandy Culinary Tours: French Farmhouse Cooking

4 Nights Starting At $1,980

Burgundy Wine Tastings Tour in Dijon

3 Nights Starting At $2,380

French Foodie Getaway in Tours

2 Nights Starting At $1,290

Wine Tastings Tours and Cooking Vacations In Champagne, France

3 Nights Starting At $2,940

Discover the Cuisine & Culture of Provence on Our Provence Cooking Vacations

6 Nights Starting At $3,550

Cooking Vacations in Provence: A Gastronomic Holiday in Aix

5 Nights Starting At $2,650

Best of Bordeaux

5 Nights Starting At $4,250

Cooking Classes in Burgundy, France with Chef Robert Ash

5 Nights Starting At $3,600

Wine Tasting Tours in Provence

4 Nights Starting At $2,845

Grand Tour of the Loire: Wines & Chateaux

4 Nights Starting At $3,985

Cooking Vacations in the French Alps

6 Nights Starting At $3,650

Discover Provence on Our Food and Wine Tastings in Avignon, France

6 Nights Starting At $3,540

Discover a Parisian Rendezvous with Our Best Food Tours in Paris, France

4 or 6 Nights Starting At $1,830

Brittany Food and Wine Tours: France Cooking School Vacations

6 Nights Starting At $2,900

Biking through a Loire Valley Wine Tour

4 Nights Starting At $3,600

French Cooking Vacations

Your cooking vacations in France with The International Kitchen mean authenticity, fabulous food, and plenty of fun. We have 25 years of experience organizing the perfect gourmet holidays in France, and thousands of satisfied culinary travelers that we call friends. As a small, boutique tour company, we love planning cooking holidays in France for our foodie travelers, and consider personalized service one of the staples of our company.

On our amazing cooking holidays in France you can learn to make local recipes and the traditional dishes of French cuisine such as boeuf bourguignon, coq au vin, cassoulet and confit de canard. Or, you can explore Burgundy, Bordeaux, and more on a wine tasting trip in France. From the Mediterranean cuisine of Provence to the duck of Gascony, to the pastries of Paris, we can help you master French cuisine during our fun and delectable cooking vacations in France.

Depending on your tastes, you might explore the remarkable produce and seafood of the sunny south, or savor some of the world’s best wines and cheeses while relaxing at country vineyards on our wine tours. We have the perfect culinary tours in France for every foodie.

If you’re a wine lover, you can visit boutique vineyards and wine shops during our wine tours in France and discover how the French combine the natural terroir of the land with their own centuries-old practices to make the world’s finest wines. Whether you want a foodie trip to France that includes casual wine tastings, or one of our luxury wine tours of France, we can help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

In general, foodie tours in France with The International Kitchen include:

• Hands-on cooking courses featuring authentic French gastronomy
• Excursions to local towns and cultural sites
• Visits to markets, wineries, farms, and more
• Accommodations in everything from simple B&B properties to deluxe private villas and hotels
• Plenty of personalized service and expert guidance while planning your France culinary tour

Your table awaits you for your gourmet lunch on a gorgeous French estate during a cooking vacation in France.

Read more about French food and travel tips

What to See in Normandy France

February 20, 2024

We love all the regions where we offer cooking vacations, but some locations really stand out! Normandy is certainly one of those places, offering amazing regional cuisine, fantastic…

Delicious Berry Clafoutis for National Dessert Day

November 16, 2020

Today is evidently National Dessert Day, and we'll take any excuse to do a little baking! We have featured tons of desserts in our blog…

Recipe for Carrot Ginger Soup with Mint Pistou

April 4, 2022

They say that necessity is the mother of invention, but I would say also that in cooking abundance is the mother of invention! For instance,…

Regions We Visit on Our Cooking Holidays and Wine Tours of France:

• Brittany : Visit this region on our cooking vacations in France for a fascinating mix of Celtic and French culture and plenty of fresh seafood. Stunning rocky shores, medieval castles, and megalithic monuments round out your experience on our cooking holidays in France.
• Burgundy : Experience this region’s fine wines and classic dishes like boeuf bourguignon and coq au vin on our wine tours in France and culinary trips in Burgundy. Your hands-on cooking classes will use fresh local ingredients as you explore French gastronomy on our gourmet holidays in France.
• Champagne : Discover this famed region of the north-east with its gothic cathedrals, timbered towns, and fertile plains, and taste the world famous wines on our Champagne wine tasting tours.
• Languedoc : From pork and duck dishes in the mountains to an abundance of fish in the plains, this region offers a little bit of everything, including excellent wines for those looking for wine tours of France. Discover French markets, medieval towns, and delicious southern French fare on our cooking vacations in France and the Languedoc.
• Loire : With its stunning chateaux and world-class wineries, the Loire Valley is an ideal spot for our wine tours in France or a France culinary tour. The region is full of grand history and architecture, including famous chateaux, and you can explore them all on our gourmet holidays in France and its Loire region.
• Normandy : Explore miles of coastline, stunning countryside, and delectable local specialties while visiting Normandy on our cooking vacations in France. Your hands-on French cooking classes, market visits, and delicious meals will expose you to some of the best food to be found on our cooking holidays in France.
• Paris (Ile de France) : Experience the City of Lights like an insider during our culinary vacations and wine tours of France, complete with hands-on cooking classes, gastronomic tours, wine tastings, and more.
• Provence and the Cote d’Azur : Explore the famed land of lavender, fine wines, flavorful produce, fresh fish, and succulent meats on our France wine tours in Provence. The best wine trips in France include amazing food and gastronomic visits as well, all of which you can enjoy on our gourmet holidays in France and the Provence region.
• Rhone Alps : The Rhone Alps are an international Mecca for foodies, making this the perfect destination for our cooking vacations in France. Taste fine wines, cook delectable French dishes, and enjoy the beautiful of the Rhone Alps on a France culinary tour.
• Southwest France : Visit this region for the ultimate wine tours in France! Explore French cuisine during our cooking vacations in France, including luxury wine tours in Bordeaux and intensive cooking courses in Gascony. Discover authentic French cuisine on our cooking vacations in Southwest France!

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• Trip Advisor

Gourmet Food Tours in France

Self-drive gourmet food tours of france.

If you’re interested in doing a food tour in France, as well as exploring some of France’s beautiful sites and fascinating heritage , one of our gourmet-focused tours may be just what you’re looking for!  

All our tours give you a taste of a bit of everything: t he city, hidden villages, countryside, art, history and of course, wine and food . French food is varied and will delight your senses! From the coq au vin in Burgundy to the poulet vallée d'Auge in Normandy … or how about a Parisian  Ile Flottante for dessert?

On one of our food tours of France, you’ll enjoy French cuisine in different regions of our country that are famous for their traditional French recipes and fresh quality produce . We recommend restaurants that we have handpicked ourselves because they all have something special: from bistrot food to gastronomic restaurants . You can also get acquainted with French cuisine, taking an intimate cooking class with a local.

See below for a taste of some of the unique gourmet experiences you can enjoy on one of our food tours in France: 

The France Just For You team are real gourmets - you can rely on our recommendations.

Our Self Guided Food Tours for Gourmet Travelers

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.

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 !

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.

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.

Castelnaud castle and the Dordogne river Sarlat TO

A Genuine Trip to the South West of France

Explore the South West of France: fortresses clinging to the cliffs in the Cathar Country and Dordogne, many “most beautiful villages of France”, and a very rich and unique gastronomy. This is where to experience the authentic France.

Basque Country typical architecture CDT Pays Basque

The Authentic South West of France

This self-drive itinerary will take you to the South West of France, from the Basque coastline to authentic Dordogne, ending in the bustling city of Bordeaux.

Provence cuisine ADT Provence

Provence Gastronomy in a Day

This day is crafted for gourmet travelers only. Get acquainted with Provence gastronomy and gorgeous landscapes. How to Get There This day tour starts in Avignon, Provence and requires for travelers to have car. From Paris, you can take a high-speed train to Avignon (about 3hrs).

From Eze tropical gardens - 10 days in french riviera and provence France Just For You

Hidden beauties of the South-East of France

Provence & the French Riviera are famous the world over, but they still have a lot of secrets, ready to be discovered if you are willing to get away from the beaten paths.

Olive trees in the South of France A Hocquel

A Real Taste of France

This itinerary will take you from Paris, the city of lights, to Provence in two different locations, and end in the French Riviera. Perfect to relax & get some sun !

Enjoy the French sweet life ADT Touraine - Stevens Frémont

From Paris to Nice at your own pace

For independent travelers who want to thoroughly explore la belle France - from Paris, through the vineyards of Burgundy, the charming landscapes of Provence, and on to the sunny Riviera!

You may not believe it but this is a Paris street... David Lefranc - OT Paris

Northern France at your own pace

This itinerary gives you the perfect tour of Northern France, including Paris, the Loire Valley castles and gastronomy, and ending in Normandy with the landing sites, the hinterland and beautiful Giverny.

A market in Provence R.Cintas-Flores-Provence Tourisme

Provence's Scents & the Riviera's Shades

Enjoy the sweet scents, vivid colors, flavorful tastes, sunshine and warm wind of Provence & the Riviera. To save time and energy, we recommend you fly in and out of Marseille (or Nice) International Airport. Otherwise, we can also help with TGV train tickets.

St Céré on market day Cochise Ory

Bordeaux & Dordogne's Heritage

The Bordeaux area and Dordogne are 2 very rich regions in terms of heritage . . . and of course gastronomy & wine. From the Middle Ages to the Renaissance (and even prehistoric times), you will find what you like here!

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.

Alexander Van Steenberge - Unsplash

La Belle Provence

Discover all the beauty and explore the mysteries of Provence, from the Dentelles to the Luberon.

France Just For You

Table d'hôte: Enjoy a home-cooked meal at your French B&B with fellow guests

We arrange for our travelers to stay at premium B&B accommodations across France that we have tried ourselves, because we think this is the best way to get the chance to interact with French people who speak good English. We also know the B&B hosts personally, so we know they’ll extend the warmest of welcomes to all our travelers. 

On at least one evening during your trip, you will enjoy a ‘ table d'hôte ’ at your B&B. Your hosts will cook a delicious typical French meal for you and the fellow B&B guests, and you’ll experience one of our favorite French traditions: dining with friends and enjoying good food, wine and conversation !

Food market tours: Explore France's gourmet shops with an expert food guide

If you’re interested in doing a food tour in one of the places you visit on your tour of France, we know expert guides who give some of the best food tours in the world! (in our opinion!). 

Whether you visit a typical French food market or not will depend on the day of the week, as these are only open once a week. 

Normally the guide will take you to local stores where you can try different types of food that are popular in that region. And of course, you will learn about food traditions in that part of France and be able to ask the guide questions.

Browse our tours of Provence or Dordogne

Mita & Bip from California, USA

Truffle-hunting in Provence & Dordogne

If you’re a gourmet, you’ll definitely know about French truffles (we don’t mean the chocolate!). If you’re doing one of our  Provence tours or  Dordogne tours with us, we can arrange for you to go on a truffle-hunting experience with local truffle-hunting experts (and their owners!). 

The English-speaking truffle experts will explain how to find and recognize truffles - the dogs will show you where they are and you’ll get to dig them up. After the hunt, you’ll try some French delicacies served with the truffles!

Browse our  tours of Provence or  Dordogne

Carol & Bruce from the USA

Wine & food pairing experiences

Many of our travelers are interested in doing wine tasting in France . We work with excellent wine-tasting experts and guides who offer unique wine-tasting and wine and food pairing experiences. 

Imagine tasting wine on a traditional boat on the Loire river. Or in the cellar of an old castle . Or in an off-the-beaten-track vineyard that you’d never find on your own. We can arrange this for you as part of one of our gourmet food tours of France or part of our France wine tasting tours.

Browse our  France Wine Tasting Tours

Carol & Harry from Australia

Your personal guidebook with a whole section about French food & wine (& tips about unusual food to try!)

All travelers who book tours with France Just For You receive a personalized guidebook crafted just for your specific trip. (If you book again, you’ll receive another guidebook for that trip!). 

In addition to your itinerary and recommended activities and places for each place you visit, your guidebook has a section about French food, restaurants, mealtimes and etiquette. This includes insiders’ tips, such as how to choose the perfect baguette, and suggestions for unusual food to try in France. 

If you’re an adventurous eater, you may like to try  cuisses de grenouille (frogs’ legs),  cervelle (brains) or  pied de cochon (pig’s foot). This section of the guidebook will also help you to avoid ordering anything you definitely don’t want to try!

Frequently Asked Questions:

This is difficult to say, as each French region has its own specialties. However, a couple of delicious, common dishes in France worth trying include  boeuf bourguignon (beef stew, a typical dish from Burgundy) or  blanquette de veau  (veal stew in a creamy sauce) or  coq au vin (chicken in red wine sauce, typical in the Loire Valley and Burgundy ). 

For dessert, try a  tarte aux pommes or  tarte tatin (two different types of apple tart).

Just a few typical French dishes include  soupe à l’oignon (French onion soup),  soupe au pistou (vegetable soup served with a basil and egg sauce),  boeuf bourguignon (beef stew),  blanquette de veau ,  coq au vin (chicken in red wine sauce),  bouillabaisse (fish stew),  cassoulet (meat and bean casserole),  croque monsieur and  croque madame (ham and cheese toasted sandwich, with or without a fried egg on top),  tarte aux pommes or  tarte tatin (apple tart),  crême brûlée (custard with a burnt sugar top) and  crêpe (a very thin pancake). Each French region will have its own culinary specialties, so be sure to find out what these are and try them!

The cuisine of France is famous both for its world-renowned dishes (see the ones we mentioned above), and its wide variety of culinary techniques that give the dishes their incredible flavor. The French have developed techniques such as braising, poaching, sautéing and flambéing, which give irresistible textures and flavors to meat, vegetables, soups and desserts.

In our opinion, some must try food in France includes  boeuf bourguignon (beef stew) or  coq au vin  (chicken in red wine sauce). For dessert, an apple tart rarely disappoints! Look for tarte aux pommes or  tarte tatin  on the menu. See the questions above for more suggestions!

Crêpe suzette (a type of thin pancake covered in orangey, buttery juice),  Ile Flottante (meringue floating on vanilla custard ( crème anglaise ), any " à la parisienne " dish, meat in the  auvergnat restaurants in Paris have the best meat.

Browse our Paris tours

We have several pages in our guidebook about food etiquette and eating out in France, which will be helpful if you book a tour with us. 

Some common points of French food etiquette:

• Eating lunch between noon and 1pm and dinner between 7.30 and 8.30pm if you’re eating out.
• Eating bread with your meal - it won’t normally be served with olive oil or butter.
• Eating the dishes you order as they come, and not asking to substitute any of the ingredients.
• Bringing you the bill only when you ask for it. This is because restaurants don’t want you to feel rushed - eating well in France means taking your time.
• The service/tip is included in the price you pay for the food. If you’ve had an excellent experience, you may leave a 5-10% tip, but it is not frowned upon if you don’t leave a tip.

Unless you have a food allergy, it is best not to ask to substitute anything that’s in the dish you order from the menu. It is also not common practice to eat as you are walking along, or to ask for a ‘doggy-bag’ to take leftovers with you. In France, we like to take our time to sit down and enjoy our meals.

Our Travelers’ Reviews

There are not enough superlatives for our experience with Emilie. Prompt correspondence and thorough questions led to the perfect vacation for my family. Her choice of hotels in Paris and Provence were exactly what I would have chosen on my own. Her tour guide recommendations were spot on. The fact that she arranged all of our transfers, train …

There are not enough superlatives for our experience with Emilie. Prompt correspondence and thorough questions led to the perfect vacation for my family. Her choice of hotels in Paris and Provence were exactly what I would have chosen on my own. Her tour guide recommendations were spot on. The fact that she arranged all of our transfers, train tickets, and rental cars was priceless. I was happy to begin with, but when we received our tour book, I was amazed. It is a bound, personalized several hundred page book of everything from French customs and phrases to personalized walking tour suggestions, to GPS coordinates for points of interest. Pictures of our hotels and hosts, small maps in the book, large maps for each day we ventured out. Even Paris metro tickets to get us started. We were a group of 8, ages 12 to 75 and it could not have been more seamless. For all of this personalized service, her fees were very reasonable. Next time we travel to France, we will surely use France Just For You again. Merci beaucoup!

Emilie deserves every 5 (actually I give her 10!) star review since we never dreamed our 2 week trip through the Loire, Normandy and Paris could be so perfect. One of the many steps above and beyond was arranging a full-day private tour in Normandy since my husband's uncle (who is still alive) was there on D-Day. Our guide, Noémie, knew in advance …

Emilie deserves every 5 (actually I give her 10!) star review since we never dreamed our 2 week trip through the Loire, Normandy and Paris could be so perfect. One of the many steps above and beyond was arranging a full-day private tour in Normandy since my husband's uncle (who is still alive) was there on D-Day. Our guide, Noémie, knew in advance about Uncle Gerald and geared our visit accordingly with her depth of knowledge. Emilie arranged ways to beat the crowds at the touristy sites, but more importantly arrange charming B&Bs and recommend enchanting itineraries. The gourmet host dinners with other travelers at the B&Bs were a highlight. And the hosts were so welcoming and helpful during our stay. The smartphone, the book with suggested restaurants and must-see places, and the envelope full of city maps and brochures make France Just for You a unique and top-notch choice for planning a vacation in France. We will use Emilie and Laura for a future trip to Burgundy? Dordogne? Provence? Who knows? They will help us figure it out.

Emilie put together the best "bucket list" trip for my mother and myself. She listened to all of our requests and tailor made a vacation that was perfect. The attention to detail she paid our trip was mind blowing. She even had a full book made for us to guide us through our journey along with maps, tickets, etc. that were all date stamped …

Emilie put together the best "bucket list" trip for my mother and myself. She listened to all of our requests and tailor made a vacation that was perfect. The attention to detail she paid our trip was mind blowing. She even had a full book made for us to guide us through our journey along with maps, tickets, etc. that were all date stamped, highlighted and detailed. My mom and I have memories to last a lifetime! We had a birthday lunch at the Eiffel Tower, dune buggy rides through wineries, a trip to the top of Mount Blanc, and a full day with a French chef. And Jacques, our french chef instructor, was a hoot! Thank you so much for putting the perfect trip together and all of your work to make it exceptional.

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Lifestyle Travels & Cooking Vacations

France, italy, portugal and switzerland, original lifestyle, culinary and cultural tours, join us in france, portugal, italy, or switzerland.

You want to explore European countries with alive traditions. You like lifestyle, food & wine, and history. Lifestyle Vacations original tours in France, Portugal, Italy, or Switzerland are for you!

Whatever the destination you choose, we will guide you through timeless journeys featuring lesser-known sites designed for gourmet travelers and history lovers. Our tours featuring heritage, gastronomy and lifestyle are exclusive, designed for individuals and very small groups of up to 6 people. Lifestyle Vacations has been operating in France, Portugal, Italy, and Switzerland since 2003, offering travelers an extensive knowledge of these destinations, in addition to our expertise in the travel and food industry for more than thirty years.

If you have already booked your flights, contact us for your hotel or villa accommodation, airport transfers, restaurants reservations, and recreational activities that will make your holidays an experience of a lifetime. We provide a high-end service, and offer best rates and upgrades!

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Gastronomic tours in France

From beef Burgundy to Lyon sausages and the famous bouillabaisse of Marseille, France has led the way in delicacies for centuries. Today, France has amazing food experiences for gourmets, food lovers or true epicures. There are many possible routes in terms of a gourmet tour . A gastronomic trip can include food and wine tasting, cooking classes featuring Michelin star chefs, superb restaurants, and plenty of opportunities to sample the local specialities, such as cheese or truffles. Take advantage of your food tour in France to stay in beautiful places full of history such as Relais et Châteaux or wine estates in the heart of the vineyards. La Vallée de la Gastronomie - France ® helps you plan a personalised culinary tour of France.   How to plan a gastronomic tour in France? The best way to plan a gourmet tour is to visit the La Vallée de la Gastronomie – France ® website and choose the restaurants, tours and experiences that attract you the most. Read the description of the many domains, châteaux, restaurants and plan your food tour in France according to your tastes. You will find hosts of activities that can be shared by all ages to design a tailor-made stay. First choose a location, a region or a French department based on the territory covered by La Vallée de la Gastronomie – France ® . Then select a type of culinary tour in France , depending if you are travelling with your family or if you are planning a romantic getaway. Finally, opt for experiences and places that sound appealing to you based on your tastes and on your interests.   What is the ideal length of a food tour in France? It is often said that you need at least a week to let go completely and enjoy the places you visit. Rest assured, even a shorter duration will allow you to enjoy all the activities offered during a food tour in France. For example, a weekend allows you to explore large cities such as Marseille or Lyon: sample the many restaurants that offer typical, original, and varied menus. If you prefer smaller cities, Nimes or Dijon are full of treasures to discover. Lovers of wide open spaces will prefer a stay in the heart of nature in a castle or wine estate. If your gastronomic trip is longer, combine town and countryside for the best of both worlds: choose from the proposals of La Vallée de la Gastronomie - France ®, which covers a large territory that is as suitable for a road trip as it is for a relaxing stay.   When should you plan a gastronomic trip to France? You are still hesitating about which season to choose for your culinary tour in France? Here are a few tips to help you decide. If you want to enjoy beautiful beaches during your gourmet tour in Provence, then the period from June to September is the best, July and August being the hottest months. The rest of the year is also very pleasant and even in winter the days are often beautiful and sunny allowing you to savour your gastronomic trip. If you opt for the regions north of Provence, Auvergne or Burgundy, it is a bit cooler in winter but there is no best time to visit. Each season is accompanied by different fresh products and flavours. Discover them at the local farmers markets, open all year long, during your food tour in France. Some people also enjoy visiting the same places at two different times of the year for two very different experiences making for a great change of scenery. Couples, families, friends: something for all ages and tastes It is sometimes difficult to organise a holiday that appeals to all participants, be it family or friends. By choosing a food tour in France, you make it easy to find activities for everyone, regardless of age and interests! Cooking and the related activities are unifying and prone to sharing and discovering. It makes for unforgettable experiences that you will enjoy recalling back at home. It will be an opportunity to remember the good times and to put into practice what you have learned. Take part in a wine tasting in a cellar or a chateau and become unbeatable at choosing the best wines to match your dishes. Are you travelling with children? Don't worry, they are not forgotten and keeping them occupied is easy. A visit to a chocolate factory is always a great success, they can taste and learn new chocolate recipes. A visit to the farm is a great opportunity to discover and get closer to the animals but also to go fruit picking when the season is right.   What region is best for a gourmet tour in France? There is no right or wrong when it comes to choosing a location for your gourmet tour , but there might be a few things to consider to make sure that you get what you expect. You can choose to stay in a specific region or opt for a road trip that will have you discover a maximum of places and culinary specialities. Dijon is a wonderful city surrounded by peaceful rural areas that offer amazing opportunities to taste all sorts of wine and walks in the vineyards of Burgundy. It might be a preferable area if you want a peaceful romantic weekend or if you want to taste really typical French cuisine. Lyon and its area is more buoyant and might be great for young people who want to have fun in the city while enjoying their gastronomic tour . The city is ideal for both its rich culinary culture and its historical heritage: enjoy beautiful and charming strolls along the banks of the two rivers that cross it. Lyon is the cradle of a diverse and refined gastronomy. Most definitely associated with that of the famous Michelin-starred chef Paul Bocuse, there are many restaurants led by a new generation of talented chefs to discover. Don't miss the untranslatable local specialties: the famous pâté en croûte, a pork and veal pâté baked in a savoury pastry, the exquisite pike dumplings called quenelles, the herb-flecked cheese spread Cervelle de Canut which has nothing to do with brains, the tripe based dish Tablier de Sapeur for the aficionados, the Volaille Demi-Deuil a truffled braised poultry cooked in a broth or steamed and served with a crème fraîche based suprême sauce. And for sweets enjoy a Coussin de Lyon, a chocolate and almond paste bite-sized specialty, or a slice of a tarte à la Praline, a pink praline tart.   Marseille and the South of France are ideal for people who want to enjoy healthy food, full of colourful vegetables and fish.   It has a warm and vibrant atmosphere, and its people are keen to share their love of the area with you. And if you gain their trust, they will gladly share their secret addresses off the beaten track! As for the area, it will probably match most people’s dreams of France and Provence. Don't wait any longer and visit our website La Vallée de la Gastronomie - France ® to prepare your food tour in France!    

Gourmet for food lovers

Gourmet tours in france.

To know French cuisine is to know France.  As Julia Child wrote in her book My Life in France : “I suddenly discovered that cooking was a rich and layered and endlessly fascinating subject. The best way to describe it is to say that I fell in love with French food–

the tastes, the processes, the history, the endless variations, the rigorous discipline, the creativity, the wonderful people, the equipment, the rituals.”

Having worked together with AAV for numerous, happy clients, I am glad to say that they are a pleasure to work with. They have the best connections and people collaborating with them. Everything is always VERY well planned and executed. Clients are often commenting to me how well their vacations have been going. Great people! Edward K. Chef

Foodie experiences in France

Whether you plan to take your vacation in Paris or another area of France, Académie des Arts de Vivre (AAV) will find ways for you to experience true French culinary traditions.  Here are a few of the treats waiting for you:

Pure chocolate walk A two hour walking tour for tasting the best chocolate in the world. AAV will introduce you to five of Paris’s best chocolatiers, each with his own signature style.  While learning the history of the cocoa bean and how chocolate arrived in France, you will sample a wide range of creations, from savory chocolate to unusual ingredient combinations which magically create taste explosions.

Culinary Lyon The 3rd largest city in France with over 2,000 years of history has a long culinary tradition.  Discover Lyon through its colorful food markets:  les halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, the marché Saint-Antoine, or the marché de la Croix Rousse.  Afterwards, you will lunch at an authentic bouchon Lyonnais , a restaurant serving traditional regional fare.  A wonderful experience for food lovers!

Normandy cheese Normandy’s cheeses are world famous:  Camembert, Pont l’Evêque, Livarot, Neufchâtel, Brillat-Savarin.  The rich pastures in this region are the secret ingredient, providing locally produced milk for use in these locally produced cheeses. Your AAV expert guide will take you to visit local producers to see firsthand how the cheeses are produced and to sample them.

Seafood adventure in Brittany Every morning, when the fishermen come back to port, there is a criée , a live auction of the day’s catch.  Experience the criée with a top restaurant chef who will then welcome you into his kitchen to teach you how to prepare the fish or seafood that you just bought, and share it with you for lunch.

Christmas traditions The réveillon , Christmas Eve dinner, often extends until the wee hours of the morning and is a moment of extravagance:  scallops in their shells, raw oysters, caviar, foie gras , with champagne and fine wines.  Take a tour of Paris during the holiday season and see how the French prepare.  Your AAV guide will show you where true Parisians shop for their réveillon .

Discover culinary France

On the footsteps of Julia Child Julia Child, the woman who introduced French cuisine to the U.S. arrived in Paris in 1948, enrolled in cooking classes at the Cordon Bleu in 1949, and received her diploma only in 1951 after several failed attempts.  Visit Julia’s favorite places and see Paris’ culinary scene through her eyes.

Table etiquette In France, everything important happens at the table, which is why it is vital to know the customs.  Thanks to AAV, you will meet a Parisian aristocrat who will teach you French etiquette as well as the history of French cuisine. You will then practice at a private candlelit dinner in a historic family chateau.

Hands-on Gastronomy Shop at a well-known local market with your private chef who will show you how to choose the freshest seasonal fruits and vegetables, meats and fish. You will cook together, the chef sharing personal recipes and those little tricks that make a big difference. Class will end with lunch, the results of your morning efforts.  A rare culinary treat.

Your Michelin Star route France has more restaurants with three Michelin stars than any other European country, so a trip here would not be complete without at least one meal at one of these establishments.  AAV can even create a tour just for you, based on the types of cuisine you prefer, the regions you will visit and Michelin’s recommendations.

Culinary experiences and itineraries

Gastronomy experience in Paris, Burgundy and Lyon – 9 Days

• Accommodation for 8 nights in luxury hotels in Paris, Beaune and Lyon
• 1st Class train tickets
• Private driver in luxury vehicle
• Three full-day and three half-day private gastronomy experiences
• Private cooking classes with a renown local chef
• Local chefs and farmers open their doors to share their passions and secrets
• Food market visits with a food expert
• Reservations at the most fabulous restaurants (according to tastes and interests)
• Our AAV Concierge will be available to help you organize your free time with private tours, restaurant reservations, spa treatments, and whatever else you wish to ensure you have a memorable time

Gastronomy experience in Paris and Normandy – 4 Days

• Accommodation for 3 nights in luxury hotels in Paris and Honfleur
• Two full-day and one half-day private guided gastronomy experiences
• Private cooking class with renown local chef

Discover the wealth of French cuisine  with AAV

Although you’ll find a steak-frites or a soupe à l’oignon pretty much anywhere in France, French cuisine is very different from one region to another. Crêpes originated in Brittany.  Gratin daupinois was created in the Savoy region, where winters are cold and heavier dishes are comforting.  Choucroute , French sauerkraut, is from Alsace, which changed hands several times, from France to Germany and back again. The French Riviera has its petits farcis , little stuffed zucchini, eggplant, tomato and onion boats.  And boeuf bourguignon is from the Burgundy region, where good red wines are plentiful, so necessary for making the delicious sauce.

In the south, the olive is king.  Tapenade , an olive purée, is served on bread with cocktails. Vegetables are sautéed in olive oil (think ratatouille ) and seasoned with herbs such as thyme, oregano and savory, indigenous plants to the Provençal garrigue .   In the north, recipes are based on butter.  And cream, which adds a richness and unctuousness not found further south. No matter where you go in France, you will find local specialties with a rich heritage.  What better way to get to know this beautiful country?

More luxury experiences

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Although you’ll find a steak-frites or a soupe à l’oignon pretty much anywhere in France, French cuisine is very di…

Fashion & Shopping

The setting of Coco before Chanel, Audrey Hepburn’s triumph in Funny Face and Carrie Bradshaw’s final season of Sex …

Architecture & Gardens

No home – be it a castle or a cottage – would be complete without a garden. Whether parklands designed to impress or…

Art & History

Art and history have been closely intertwined in France, ever since the Paleolithic period when cavemen painted aurochs …

Chateaux & Castles

Visit France’s chateaux and castles and discover over nine centuries of history and architectural prowess. One of the …

When AAV organizes your luxury ski vacation, you get the best of everything: luxurious accommodations in some of the mo…

France boasts many great courses all across the country, which makes it an ideal destination when you’re looking to co…

Sport in France

AAV has lots of contacts in the sports world. If you want to have a golf lesson with one of the best pros in France, we…

Plan your trip

If you wish to schedule a time to speak about the trip you have in mind, please click on the “Tailor my trip” button and fill in our form. We will get back to you very shortly after reception of your request.

Passport to Provence

Discover the splendours of Provence in the company of our Michelin-starred Chef. Learn secrets of Mediterranean cuisine, visit colourful markets and explore the Southern France with its rolling hills, vineyards and stunning coastline. The course is held in a restored farmhouse with its own Provencal garden, providing herbs and vegetables used in the dishes you will prepare and savour

Recommended for:

If you prefer to travel at your own pace with our local guides, our private trips are for you. Our French cooking tours focus on immersion into the local culture. We introduce you to local experts who invite you into their culture and kitchens to participate.

Highlights:

• Cook with a Michelin star chef in his farmhouse kitchen
• Meet a group of fellow gourmets from all over the world
• Pick fresh Provencal herbs in garden and shop at picturesque markets
• Get the best catch from the fishing boats in beautiful Cassis
• Cycle through vineyards and olive groves on our special “Chefs, Vines & Bike”
• Explore the nearby stunning Calanque fjords and islands Porquerolles

• Trip Details
• Dates & Prices
• Getting There & Map
• Guest Reviews

Nestled between mountains and sea, the Var is a strikingly diverse region known for dazzling natural beauty — rolling hills, rocky cliffs, thick forests — and 270 miles of Mediterranean coast. To the north, quiet villages perch on hilltops; to the south, the influence of the sea is unmistakable. In Bandol, with its fleet of tuna-fishing boats, you’ll find the oldest vineyards in all of France, dating to 600 BC. Food and wine play a major role in the lifestyle here: Dozens of roadside vineyards offer tours and tastings, while truffles and honey provide a livelihood for many villagers.

You are only a short trip away from the sea, the islands of Porquerolles and Embiez or the mini fjords of Cassis. Visit Sanary, Bandol markets and local vineyards….

About the cooking course/ chef

Born in this very village, Michelin-star Chef René Bérard’s innovative cuisine is based on the traditional flavours and fragrances of Provence and the Mediterranean, and cooked using the finest Provencal products. The “cuisine of the sun” is Chef Berard’s passion and a formidable way of sharing his love of the Provencal terroir and traditions with his guests. The chef’s cuisine reflects to perfection the seasons of Provence, and the program offers an exceptional introduction to his skill and craft. Although Chef Bérard has won numerous awards and is held in the highest esteem by his peers, his true love is teaching and creating the same passion in his students.   Lessons are taught in the “Bastide des Saveurs,” a small house wonderfully outfitted, surrounded by exquisite herb and vegetable gardens. Daily courses begin with a demonstration followed by a hands-on class, with preparation of the gourmet dishes for a delicious Provencal lunch under the trees or in the beautiful dining room of the Bastide. Every evening except for the welcome dinner are free at leisure. Excursions may include a local French market, wine tastings at the local vineyards, meeting with the local fishermen at the harbour, walk in the olive groves and surrounding picturesque villages or beaches nearby.

Accommodation

A cluster of beautifully-restored old buildings, including an 11th-century monastery, is tucked away in the ancient Provencal village of La Cadière d’Azur. Each room is decorated in delightful Provencal style, overlooking the surrounding hills and majestic Bandol vineyards.

The hostellerie and cooking school is surrounded by its own herb garden and also boasts a swimming pool, where you can simply relax in the sun….

Cooking in Provence ( 6 days/ 5 nights) 

15 – 20 April – sold out 13 – 18 May 10 – 15 June 1 – 6 July – sold out 2 – 7 Sept – sold out 7 – 12 Oct – sold out

Chef’s Hats, Vines and eBikes (4 days/ 3 nights)

13 – 16 May 10 – 13June 01 – 04 July – sold out 02 – 05 Sept – sold out

All arrivals are on Sunday for welcome dinner.

Prices 2018

Prices per person in Euros

Cooking in Provence  (6 days/ 5 nights)  Single 1,824 Single (June, July) 1,934

Double 1,494 Double (June, July) 1,612

Non-cooking partner 895 Non-cooking (June, July) 915

Cooking & Biking (4 days/ 3 nights) Euro 985 pp

Single supplement: Euro 90 p.n.

Cooking in Provence

• Five nights accommodation, single or double occupancy
• Daily breakfast
• Welcome dinner on Sunday
• Four days hands-on cooking
• Recipes with English translation
• Three afternoon and one morning excursions as per itinerary:  vineyards, honeybees farm, olive mill, market
• Four lunches with drinks

For non-cooking guest: welcome dinner, accommodation, breakfast. Welcome to join lunches at an additional fee.

Cooking & Spa

• Three nights accommodation, double occupancy
• Two dinners at Michelin starred restaurant
• Half day hands-on cooking with lunch
• Afternoon Spa with 1 hour signature treatment pp

Cooking & Biking

• Full day guided bike tour with eBike (Electrically-Assisted Bicycle) discovery tour with our expert guide, through the vineyards and olive groves in the region.  Includes wine tasting of 5 wines at the fabulous Mouline de la Roque, Picnic lunch prepared by our Michelin star chef.
• Travel and transfers to and from France and hotel/school
• Drinks with dinners
• City tax (Euro 1 per day pp)

Cooking & Spa

Cooking & Biking

Getting There

The closest airport are Toulon (40km), Marseilles (60km) or Nice (130km). The nearest train station is St. Cyr sur Mer. We recommend to rent a car. If you prefer not to drive, we can arrange transfers from airport or train station.

Classic cooking in Provence (Sample Itinerary)

Day 1 (Sunday)

Arrival in Provence – check into hotel – welcome dinner in Michelin-starred restaurant

Day 2 (Monday)

Morning cooking class – afternoon at leisure

Day 3 (Tuesday)

Fish market – morning cooking class – afternoon vineyard visit

Day 4 (Wednesday)

Morning cooking class – afternoon visit to olive producer

Day 5 (Thursday)

Day 6 (friday).

Breakfast and morning to explore the village. Departure before noon.

Happy guests…

Confidence to try new things “Really relaxed and informal, cared for in a genuinely intimate way. A small glimpse into a lifestyle I’d like to become permanently accustomed to!

Lovely place, great food, charming and generous company, glorious weather, and aperitifs every day in the sunshine!

A cosseting place, with a garden I’m very envious of, that is clearly the result of a lot of hard work and attention (as is everything about the holiday). The chef is very imaginative. He demystified many things as well as helping in both practical advice and confidence to try something more complex.”

Louise S., London, UK

Postcard-gorgeous ” My mom and I had a wonderful time in Provence. The setting for the cooking course was postcard-gorgeous. The garden surrounding the Bastide, where we had our lessons, was lush, beautiful, and full of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and fragrant herbs.

We enjoyed the cooking classes immensely – we appreciated that we weren’t just listening or doing menial tasks, but actually preparing each and every step of the 3-course lunches that we enjoyed each day. The food was absolutely delicious – the dishes we created are sure to impress my friends, yet are possible to recreate at home. I have nothing but wonderful things to say about the chef – he was a fantastic teacher, very patient, kind, and fun to work with. I could hardly believe that a Michelin-starred chef was sharing so much knowledge with us and then sitting down to a lovely meal with us each day. He was always happy to answer all our questions and seemed to be having as much fun as we were. Also, the translator, Miriam, added immensely to the experience – the way she worked with the chef was very natural, and she had a lot of knowledge about the region, Provencal history, culture, and cuisine to share…..

Finally, I especially enjoyed the “extras” and field trips, such as when the chef showed us around his garden, picking herbs for us to smell, and the morning when we travelled to a nearby coastal town to visit the fish and produce market……

All in all, it was definitely one of the most enjoyable, memorable vacations I have ever had. The location and the cooking course were even more incredible than I had dreamed they would be. Thanks so much!”

Colleen K., California, US

Much more than I imagined “The cooking course and the stay were wonderful. Much more than I had imagined it would be and just what I was looking for. The professionalism and reputation of Mr Berard was unexpected, not to mention the ‘three hat’ restaurant. Breakfast every morning looking out at Provence was pure luxury. I loved visiting the surrounding countryside and beaches. The hotel was very comfortable and well organised by the extra-ordinary energy of Mr Berard.”

Yvonne T, Australia

Stepping into a different world “ The cooking course was a wonderful interlude and I am very pleased I went. The setting — the village of La Cadiere d’Azur — is simply magical; a marvellously preserved medieval gem. It, alone, is worth the journey. The Hostellerie is delightfully in keeping with its surroundings, while lacking nothing in modern comforts. And what a position — those panoramic views from the restaurant! I must mention the staff — they conduct themselves with aplomb, and in a friendly and unforced way they both accommodated my broken French … and were themselves happy to speak in English. Pleasingly, the strong sense of place — Provencale — along with echoes of long-cherished tradition, is carried through to the bastide where the cooking itself takes place. There is a true sense of stepping for a few days into a different world, away from the meaningless noise, rush and sameness of our more familiar world.

M. Berard himself embodies all the Provencal virtues — full of charm, bonhomie and, of course, most knowledgeable about his topic — the food of Provence. He is a most likeable man and it is a pleasure to spend a few days in his company. I learned a great deal from him and I came home with my culinary knowledge much enriched. And I had a very good time doing it.

I was the only non-French speaker attending the course last week. I did not find this a problem. Being surrounded by the French language in the kitchen somehow contributed to the atmosphere. At the end of the week I told M. Berard – in French! – that if I stayed for three weeks I would be speaking entirely in French. Nevertheless, I very much appreciated the presence of Miriam, a delightful woman, to help with translation.

…I would love to go back.

Thank you for the part you played in the smooth conduct of the arrangements.”

Lester V, UK

Everything was perfect. Passionate Chef. “I had such a wonderful time. Everything was perfect. The hotel was beautiful and the staff was warm, friendly and more than accommodating. Chef Berard made us feel so comfortable. It was so nice to see someone who loves what they do and is so passionate about sharing it with others. I am back to the “real world” and stil catching myself smiling thinking about my experiences there.”

Jenny C., US

Wonderful experience “We loved the cooking course in La Cadiere and have shared your website with many friends since returning home. The setting was so beautiful and Rene and Mirian were wonderfully patient and accommodating…..the friends we made, the setting and the yummy food made it a wonderful experience…. Thank you for everything and hope to come on to another course sometime in the future!”

Diana & Trevor, New Zealand

Enjoyable vacation to rest and to learn at the same time “Provence is fantastic. For a novice like me, it was definitely a relaxing and enjoyable vacation to rest and to learn French cuisines at the same time. Provence is so awesome. La Cadiere d’Azur is wonderfully located on a hilltop with a perfect view of the surroundings. The Bastide, where we had our lessons and afternoon meals, is a wonderful place to spend a few days. The course is well-rounded to cover meats, fish / sea foods, vegetables and desserts. Tuesday morning visit to Senary to buy fishes was fun. June is definitely a good month to visit this region before the Summer heat arrives in July / August. Jean Francois, the son of Rene, was wonderful, energetic and hands-on.”

Kok-Loong C., Malaysia

Great teacher “It was wonderful. Chef Rene was a great teacher and the translator Miriam was just as accomplished….. can’t wait to try the recipes.”

Kathie L., US

Beyond my expectations “The Hostellerie and the cooking course went beyond my expectations! Because it is a family run business, everyone seemed invested in our well being and experience. Rene is a dear man. . . kind . . .patient. . . with indefatigable energy! He was so helpful to my daughter (a non-chef) and sparked a hopefully life long interest in Provencal cuisine. We were both so appreciative of his expertise and demeanor. I just kept wanting to hug him! Besides the Hostellerie itself, the location is superb for touring north and south. Miram, our translator, was like a friend after a day, and helpful to us in every way. Tous c’etait magnifique!!!

Lucinda M., US

What happy guests said about this tour…

“ Much more than I imagined - The cooking course and the stay were wonderful. Much more than I had imagined it would be and just what I was looking for. The professionalism and reputation of Mr Berard was unexpected, not to mention the 'three hat' restaurant. ” Yvonne T, Australia

“ Postcard-gorgeous - My mom and I had a wonderful time in Provence. The setting for the cooking course was postcard-gorgeous. The garden surrounding the Bastide, where we had our lessons, was lush, beautiful, and full of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and fragrant herbs. ” Colleen K., California, US

“ Beyond my expectations - The Hostellerie and the cooking course went beyond my expectations! Because it is a family run business, everyone seemed invested in our well being and experience. Rene is a dear man. . . kind . . .patient. . . with indefatigable energy! ” Lucinda M., US

Exclusive France Tours

Gourmet Cheese Tours of France: Top 5 Regions to Explore

..creamy, flavorful-- & always full of character.

If you’re interested in embarking on a gourmet cheese tour of France, there are myriad ways to enjoy some of the country’s finest specialities. From Paris to the Pyrenees, Dordogne and Normandy, numerous regions are famous for their distinctive, flavorful, creamy or delightfully sharp cheeses. Whether you prefer delicacies made with cow’s, goat’s, or sheep’s milk, or are an all-around amoureux de fromages (cheese lover), a luxury getaway that involves tasting traditional cheeses is a gastronomic experience that shouldn’t be missed. It’s almost always a good idea to pair these with fine wines, bringing out the flavours of both. Take a look at the top 5 regions we recommend for a bespoke cheese tour—and some of the specialities they’re most prized for. Embark on a private tour with us and we’ll arrange exclusive tastings with some of the country’s best cheesemongers and artisans, and leave you with a wealth of (delicious) knowledge.

Marie Tesson

The Paris & Ile de France Region

As one of France’s—and the globe’s—shining gastronomic capitals, it’s little wonder that Paris and the surrounding Ile de France region is lauded for producing some of France’s best and most well-known cheeses.

Just 25 miles northeast of central Paris are the towns of Meaux and Melun, both famous for their centuries-old tradition of producing Brie. Perhaps the most accessible—and globally successful—French cheese, Brie is a mild, intensely buttery cheese with a fresh taste that pairs beautifully with grapes, apples and other fruit, and is also divine eaten plain with a bit of crusty baguette. While some pseudo-Bries do exist, make sure you taste only the genuine ones, made in Meaux or Melun. Other cheeses native to the Ile de France region include Coulommiers, a large round made with cow’s milk that resembles Camembert but offers a slightly nuttier flavor, and Fontainebleau, a dense, sweet, light cheese made with a combination of cow’s milk and fresh, whipped cream.

In Paris proper, cheesemaking isn’t carried out on a large scale these days, but the capital does house numerous exceptional shops where cheese tastings are de rigueur. One we especially recommend is the Fromagerie Quatrehomme, one of the most renowned cheesemongers in France, and supplier to numerous prestigious restaurants in the capital. Owned by Marie Quatrehomme, the first woman to win the “Meilleur Ouvrier de France” prize (best craftsman of the year) for her superb artisanal creations, the shop is a true delight. Specialities to try here include Brie with pistachios and Mont d’Or laced with heady truffles.

Read related: 5 Luxurious Things to Do in Normandy, France

Normandy and brittany.

While the regions of Normandy and Brittany are quite distinctive, with individual cultures and traditions that are entirely their own, we’re including them together since the two regions are adjacent to one another and can both be easily visited on the same private French food tour. Most famous among Norman cheeses is the Camembert de Normandie, a wonderfully versatile yet subtly complex cheese that’s traditionally made with raw cow’s milk, and is most delicious when left to ripen for a while. Whether served with bread, fruit and wine or baked with red fruits or truffles, this is a cheese that even those who may be anxious to try raw-milk cheeses will enjoy.

Other interesting cheeses from Normandy include Pont l’Eveque and Neufchatel, more cow’s milk cheeses whose mildness will please most palates; and Livarot, made in the town of the same name near Calvados and aged for six months at a time. This is an intense, aromatic cheese with strong notes of hay and wheatgrass: a true gastronomic discovery.

Brittany also makes some interesting regional cheeses, lesser known to most tourists. The Finistere area is especially well known for their tommes, semi-hard cheeses made from raw cow’s milk that tend to melt in your mouth and are aged for several months. The Tomme du Nevet is particularly distinctive, as some varieties are aged with seaweed for an unusual flavour. There are many other varieties made and sold around Brittany, perfect paired with bread, white wines and even fresh oysters. You may also want to try the Ty Pavez, a specialty made from cow’s milk, pressed and aged with both seaweed and seawater.

Brittany, a deeply agricultural region with plenty of land for grass pastures, is also renowned for its excellent sheep’s and goat’s cheeses. Even though most aren’t technically organic, the cheeses are produced by feeding pure grass to the animals that supply the milk. The result? Fresh, pure-tasting cheeses that are genuinely healthy.

Read related: How to Enjoy a High-End Holiday in Brittany?

Read related: 5 Reasons Why Lyon’s Wine and Food is World-Famous

Savoie (The Alps)

The Alpine region of Savoie isn’t only famous for its world-class ski slopes: its traditional cheeses are also coveted, making it an important destination for gourmets as well as outdoor enthusiasts.

Home to seven protected-label regional cheeses, all made with raw cow’s milk, Savoie is perhaps best known for its mild, nutty Emmental, a favorite among all ages. Its intensely flavorful mountain tommes (pressed and aged cheeses with a semisoft texture) include Tomme de Savoie and Tome de Bauge.

The aged and washed-rind Reblochon is a favorite winter cheese, enjoyed melted over the regional potato tart known as “Tartiflette”, and boasting a deliciously creamy and intense quality. All of these are superb as part of a hearty yet refined winter meal, paired with reds from the Cotes du Rhone or other nearby vineyards.

Beaufort, Abondance, and Chevrotin are other prestigious traditional cheeses you’ll delight in trying during your private tour of the Savoie region. You might even consider taking a gastronomic tour of the region as part of your luxury ski holiday in Mégève or other Alpine French towns.

Dordogne and Perigord

In the Dordogne and Perigord region of southwestern France, cheesemaking has a long history stretching back centuries: monks and nuns residing in the many Abbeys that are dotted around the region have made many delicious specialities for centuries. Particularly famous for its excellent goats’ cheeses, the region is a wonderful place to sample local cheeses paired with wines from nearby vineyards in Bergerac (to cite only one example).

Among the most celebrated of Perigord cheeses is the Cabecou de Perigord, a delightfully creamy, slightly sharp small round made with local goat’s milk and perfect for accompanying salads and crusty bread. It has a fresh, summery flavour that pairs well with either white or red wines, and is delicious with red summer fruits. Other regional cheeses that are well worth sampling include the Trappe d’Echourgnac, a cow’s milk cheese aged by the Abbaye d’Echourgac to this day following a traditional nineteenth-century recipe, and the Cujassou, a fresh, young cheese made from both raw goat’s and sheep’s milk that stopped being produced for decades but has recently been rediscovered.

Read related: What Makes Our Luxury Wine Tasting Tours so Exceptional?

Read related: the best provence food tours, season by season.

Finally, a region that often gets neglected by luxury travellers but is essential for anyone interested in tasting gourmet cheeses is the Aveyron, situated in central southern France along the river of the same name. Home to the world-famous Roquefort, a blue cheese made from sheep’ s milk that’s at once sharp and intensely creamy, crumbly yet perfect for melting over a plate of gnocchi with walnuts, the Aveyron is a wonderfully rustic destination for a food, cheese and wine tour.

Explore the popular farmer’s markets in the region and visit village cheesemakers and agers to taste incomparable local specialties such as the Perail, an adorably small round of sheep’s cheese with a deliciously creamy, melt-in-your mouth aspect; the Laguiole, a raw-cow’s milk cheese which is aged carefully and takes pride of place on regional cheese boards; and the Bleu des Causses, a blue cheese appreciably different from Roquefort in that it’s made from raw cow’s milk rather than sheep’s, and is shaped into a distinctive wheel appearance.

Your private guide will help you to discover this off-the-beaten path region through your eyes, nose and palate, taking you to the best artisans and shops in the area and organising private tastings that bring together the finest in local gastronomy.

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France is undeniably a hub of gastronomical excellence. Countryside villages maintain centuries-old grapevines and local food traditions that extend far into the past. From a famous baguette in Paris to excellently paired Pinot Noir and beef in Burgundy, your food and wine tour through France will expand your horizons. Create the perfect culinary getaway with Zicasso.

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8  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $2,859

The pleasures of wine, cuisine, and history in Champagne, Alsace, and Burgundy are sure to seduce you. Vineyards drape across the valleys and hillsides, creating a sea of emerald. Charming castles and villages resemble pictures out of storybooks. Towns celebrate wine production, and locals relish the chance to sit in the sunlight and sip a local varietal. Explore the robust and delicate flavors of dishes being paired with regional wines. Your custom tailored tour of Alsace, Burgundy and Champagne immerses you in the gourmet and rustic world of the French countryside, letting you experience the passion of daily life.

The châteaux are legendary, the landscape is spectacular, and the wine is beyond comparison. In the Loire Valley and Bordeaux region of France, you will delight in exquisite landscapes while sampling some of the world’s finest wines. You’ll visit the Loire’s fairy-tale castles of Chambord and Chenonceau, the historic cities of Amboise and Chinon, and the prestigious wineries of Chinon and Vouvray appellations. Then you’ll tour the elegant city of Bordeaux, the UNESCO village of Saint-Émilion and the surrounding Médoc vineyards with stops at world-famous wineries. This luxurious Bordeaux and Loire Valley wine tour also includes relaxing by a beautiful beach and leisurely gourmet meals.

Saying you can sample France has never made a taste sound so delicious. You immediately think of creamy chocolate ganache and buttery sauces. Lavish estates filled with oceans of vineyards run for as far as the eye can see. On your custom tailored French food and wine tour in the Loire Valley and Bordeaux, you aren’t just sampling the cuisine, but savoring the countryside, exploring medieval villages, and experiencing the wealth of culture spanning centuries, if not millennia. Visit ornate castles and indulge in exquisite wines where every day brings another unforgettable luxury.

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Champagne pops and fizzes as the vineyards grow with lush leaves and plump grapes; the scent of chocolate truffle fills the confectionery with the promise of decadence to come on your custom tour of France and Switzerland. Medieval cathedrals glisten with stained glass windows as jewelry shops glint with gilded window displays. The layers of history accentuate the contemporary styles of chic restaurants and lavish chocolatiers. Enjoy full immersion into luxury from hidden wine regions to wine cellars submerged in caves, to cities with Roman roots to Renaissance architecture. Step beyond the beauty of the streets and savor splendor in cuisine.

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The best part of European travel is the abundance of beauty wherever you look, and this 14-day tour of Southern France and Northern Spain is designed to introduce you to both region's endless beauty and charm. From the fertile vineyards of the Bordeaux wine region to the tasty tapas of Santiago de Compostela, this unique tour will ensure your enjoyment of each destination.

10  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $7,795

Discover the food-lover inside of you during your culinary exploration of the iconic gastronomy of France. Relax in stunning chateaus that overlook emerald vines and rolling hills in the countryside. Indulge in the flavor of creamy sauces and fresh produce. Traverse narrow lanes filled with market stalls touting freshly picked fruits and hardy mushrooms. Wander through villages on a country road connecting historic wineries. Sample unforgettable cuisines prepared by private chefs during a cooking course tailored to your tastes. French cuisine turns simple ingredients into indulgent pleasures during your handcrafted tour, where every bite contains flavor and meaning.

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Sample tradition and discover majesty during your cruise down the Rhone River in search of the decadent soul of the culinary arts on your 11-day France food tour. Colorful macaroons and delicious chocolates fill the display windows of chic boutiques and charming vintage-age shops. from Medieval towns to Roman ruins, you can taste your way through cities and villages, and indulge in marvelous vineyards during your custom-tailored France tour.

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All inclusive French Wine Tour

On a 9-day all inclusive French wine tour in France, your guide brings you to the most beautiful French wine country: Champagne, Alsace, Burgundy, Cognac, Bordeaux. Discover vineyards, wineries and cultural heritage, while tasting wine and gourmet food.

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All-inclusive 9-day Gourmet Wine Tour of France

La Route des Vins de France is an all-inclusive 9-day wine tour, which spotlights the quality and diversity of French wines and vineyards. On a journey over French country roads, this tour starts in Paris and crosses five oenological regions: Champagne, Alsace, Burgundy, Cognac and Bordeaux.

Whether a wine amateur or a Grands Crus connoisseur, this gourmet tour in France is made for you, as long as you wish to learn all about French wine in one comprehensive trip. It is suitable for individuals or groups as well as for professionals or students.

This exclusive oenological tour starts in Paris and travels all across France, following our French Route des vins. A guide specialized in culinary geography will lead you during the journey and introduce you to gifted winemakers who will help you discover the flavors of the French Grands Crus’, while visiting their vineyards.

From vineyard' visits to wineries tours throughout different regions of France, tastings many gourmet products from the local terroir will complete your gastronomic journey.

Thanks to several cultural visits at major sites and monuments, you will also encounter some of France’s historical heritage.

Highlights of this all-inclusive 9-day Wine Tour in France:

• Thematic cultural voyage, hightlighting the history of French food and wine
• All-inclusive package, including food and wine activities, museums and other sites, tastings, guide, transportation and accommodation.
• Organization, logistics and communication managed by a single team to facilitate each step of the voyage  (excluding the return-flight to France)
• Personalized service and customized activities to meet your expectations
• Dedicated service, a team and guide, specialized in French gastronomy and wine heritage for you to enjoy an unforgettable gourmet food and wine tour in France

The price includes:

• All the cultural and oenological visits
• Gourmet product and wine tastings
• Private guide
• Accommodation
• Transportation with driver for every step of the route
• Optional restaurant reservations

Practical information:

• Duration: 9 days and 8 nights
• Departure/Arrival: Paris
• Minimum number of guests: 10 (please contact us for smaller groups)
• Gourmet activity suitable for: families, individuals or groups, student or company outings
• Languages available: French, English, spanish and Korean (please contact us for other languages)
• Cancellation: Orders are considered confirmed upon reception of payment.  All cancellations made more than 3 weeks prior to the reservation will be fully reimbursed, half of the payment will be reimbursed for cancellations within 2 weeks of the reservation date and no reimbursement will be possible for cancellations less than one week before the date of the class.

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Best Paris Food & Wine Tours

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15 Best Paris Food & Wine Tasting Tours for 2024

What's the best way to experience superb French cuisine while you explore Paris? 

Join a Paris food tour, a wine tasting experience, a dinner cruise, or even a cooking class!  You'll savor fantastic cheese, chocolates, wine, champagne, and pastries while you learn about what makes them special and unique. 

Top Paris Food & Wine Tours

Here are our top recommendations:

• 3-Hour Montmartre Cheese, Wine, and Pastry Tour
• Chocolate & Patisserie Walking Tour in Saint-Germain
• Champagne Tasting and Lunch Day Trip
• Marais Walking Food Tour - Cheeses, Wine Tastings, Pastries
• Bus Toqué Tour with 5-Course Dinner & Champagne

As a bonus, you'll also explore iconic neighborhoods such as Montmartre, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and the Marais, or, if you choose the Bus Toqué, get a wonderful tour of Paris itself and see lots of top attractions.

Take a look at the following descriptions of 15 mouth-watering Paris food and wine experiences - everything from walking tours to gourmet dinners to wine (and beer!) tastings to cooking classes.  Reserve tickets for your favorites, and get ready for a close-up view of Paris's culinary culture. 

As Hemingway famously wrote, "Paris is a moveable feast" - and you're about to experience it on these favorite Paris food tours.  Bon appetit!

Top photo: Display in a Paris produce market in the Latin Quarter neighborhood

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Best Paris Neighborhood Walking Tours with Food & Wine Tastings

Explore Paris's most famous neighborhoods as you sample fantastic pastries, cheese, charcuterie, wine, macarons, and chocolates on these five wonderful gourmet walking tours:

1.  Taste Cheese, Wine, & Pastries in Montmartre

You'll discover why Montmartre, once the home of Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec, Picasso, and other starving artists, has become a favorite of some of the city's best food artisans, markets, and bakeries as you sample their creations on the small-group 3-Hour Montmartre Cheese, Wine, and Pastry Tour.

What you'll eat:   As you walk along the cobblestone lanes past terraced cafes and markets brimming with fresh produce, your guide will take you to the best spots to taste the exceptional quality of the local products.  You'll sip wine as you sample local cheeses and charcuterie, enjoy freshly-made French pastries, and savor incredible  hand-crafted chocolates.  

What you'll see:   Along the way, your guide will show you Montmartre's most famous sights:   Moulin Rouge, Sacré Coeur, the hillside vineyard, historical windmills, and the private mansions tucked away among the neighborhood's picturesque hillsides.

"Tour was so fun and interesting!  Delicious cheese, wine and pastries.  We couldn't eat dinner."

2.  Indulge in Pastry and Chocolate Tastings in Saint-Germain-des-Prés

The Chocolate & Patisserie Walking Tour takes you on a fascinating 3-hour gourmet stroll of the posh Saint Germain des Prés neighborhood. You'll make eight stops along the way on this favorite Paris foodie tour to taste fine chocolates, macarons, and pastries and even have a cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. 

What you'll experience:  As you sample all the different confections, you'll learn about the history of this famous neighborhood and its culinary artisans, including some of France's best chocolate and pastry chefs.  You'll even visit famed chocolatier Debauve & Gallais, a favorite of Marie-Antoinette.

Bonus:  You get a wonderful tour of the neighborhood as you explore its hidden passages, boutiques, galleries, and beautiful churches such as Saint Germain des Prés and Saint Sulpice.

"Far exceeded our expectations.  Parisian food is amazing!"

3.  Enjoy Specialty Cheeses, Wine Pairings, & Desserts in the Marais

A cool feature of the Marais Walking Food Tour is that your guide takes you through off the usual tourist path in this uber-trendy neighborhood to visit the best artisan shops, bakeries, and markets.  You'll savor an explosion of flavors as you sample specialty French cheeses paired with wine, flavorful cured ham and charcuterie, fresh pastries, and a variety of confections.  Note the addresses as you'll want to return on your own!

Special moment: You'll also tour the Marché des Enfants Rouges, Paris's oldest covered market, bursting with fresh produce and specialty vendors who bring together the best local products of the Île de France region around Paris.  As you sample the juicy ripe strawberries, freshly-picked raspberries, or other seasonal treats, you'll discover why Parisians cherish their local markets.

Bonus:  Along the way, you'll also see a lot of the hidden corners of the Marais - superb art galleries, unique boutiques, hidden gardens, bistros where you'll want to return for a meal, and fascinating architecture. 

"Our guide knew so much about food, wine, and Paris.  We loved his passion, and we could have never discovered all these spots on our own.  This is the third Get Your Guide Paris food tour we've done on this trip and each one has been top quality."

4.  Sample the Finest Chocolates on this "Royal Paris" Walking Tour

If you dream about tasting and comparing some of the world's best chocolates, learning about artisan chocolate production in Paris, and experiencing the differences between traditional and modern chocolates, the Pure Chocolate Walking Tour is for you!

Why you'll love this tour:   In two words:  Superb chocolates!  In the company of an expert guide who is passionate about chocolate, you'll visit five master chocolatiers in around Madeleine Church, Tuileries Garden, and Place de la Concorde and savor the different styles and flavors of their chocolates.

Bonus:  You'll also get a wonderful introduction to the shops, boutiques, and arcades in this upscale part of the 1st and 8th arrondissements known as "Royal Paris," once the home of French nobility and now a favorite of fashion designers.

"Our guide was absolutely amazing and so were the chocolates.  Now we need to move to France because ... the chocolates!"

5.  Take a Gourmet Food Tour of the Latin Quarter

The Paris Gourmet Food Tour  is all about experiencing the flavors and pairings of some of France's most famous products while exploring the narrow lanes and medieval ambiance of Paris's Latin Quarter. 

What you'll do:  As you stroll around this evocative part of Paris, you'll visit a neighborhood market known for its high quality and wide variety of fresh produce and artisan products, stop by a fromagerie where you'll taste a variety of cheeses paired with wine and discover how the flavors enhance each other, and visit several bakeries to sample an amazing variety of freshly-baked French pastries. 

Tour highlight:  At the end, you'll stop by a shop with regional specialties and savor foie gras, France's most luxurious delicacy.

"Wonderful tour, way beyond our expectations.  We'd never tasted real fois gras before, and are amazed by how much we loved it."

6.  Explore the Fascinating Bastille District on a Gourmet Tasting & Walking Tour

What's cool about the small-group Bastille District: Food Tasting, Promenade Plantée, & Viaduc des Arts Walking Tour is that not only do you get to taste delicious gourmet treats at specialty shops, but you also will explore one of Paris's most vibrant neighborhoods, a favorite of Parisian foodies.

Where you'll go:  You'll start at Place de la Bastille where the French Revolution began, and then you'll stroll past some of Paris's most iconic lesser-known destinations - scenic Port de l'Arsenal where Canal Saint-Martin and the Seine River meet, the Promenade Plantée elevated walkway, artisan shops at the Viaduc des Arts, and indie boutiques along Rue d'Aligre - as you stop and sample food along the way.

Tour highlight:  Visits to traditional food markets overflowing with beautiful seasonal produce, freshly baked breads, regional cheeses, and fine wines.

"Fantastic food, plus we saw parts of the "real" Paris that we'd have never found on our own.  We'll be back!"

Best Champagne, Wine, & Beer Tasting Experiences

7.  savor 8 champagnes & lunch on this day trip from paris.

On this Champagne Tasting and Lunch day trip, your driver-guide will transport you from Paris to the famous town of Epernay in the Champagne region where you'll spend the day sipping and comparing eight different Champagnes, enjoying a delicious French lunch, and participating in a Champagne Master class held (weather permitting) in the heart of a vineyard.  You'll also learn how the terroir (soil) and climate in this region create the perfect conditions for producing this special beverage.

What's special:  You'll visit three very different Champagne houses:  A world-famous one, plus a mid-sized and a small family-owned one.  This gives you the chance to compare the tastes of all the different beverages and decide which is your favorite.  As a bonus, you can also buy bottles to take back to Paris.

Bonus:  Getting to see the beautiful countryside and vineyards as your driver takes you around the area.

"This was absolutely amazing!  Drank lots of lovely champagne and had a great day with our guide. Loved the lunch with champagne pairings."

8.  Compare Beer vs Wine on the "Bastille Bites" Tour

Did you know that the Paris region is home to numerous small producers of excellent craft beer?   C'est vrai!   You'll get to try some of the best on the Paris Craft Beer Tasting Tour.  

What you'll do:  With your expert guide/craft beer enthusiast, you'll stroll through Parisian neighborhoods as you sample brews at three different craft breweries on this small-group tour.  Along the way, you'll also sample snacks of charcuterie and cheese. 

Bonus #1 : You'll learn a bit about the interesting but mostly overlooked history of beer in France.

Bonus #2 - You'll pass through interesting parts of Paris, and will discover some great beer-focused bars to return to on your own.

Bonus #3 - Did we mention the excellent beer and food?

"Fantastic guide and experiences!  Loved all the places we visited, and can't wait to go back!!!"

9.  Take a French Wine Tasting Class with an Expert Sommelier

During the French Wine Tasting Class with Sommelier experience, you'll savor wines from different French regions as you learn what makes each area and its wine unique, how to taste wine properly to detect the subtle flavors and nuances, and how Champagne is made.  A basket of bread is available to help you clear your palate between courses. 

What may surprise you:  How different the wines are from each other, once you get tuned into how to really taste them and "read" their subtle tones and notes.

Bonus:   You'll learn how to read French wine labels, understand the meaning of concepts like terroir and appelation, and tell the difference between wines from Sancerre and Bordeaux, Burgundy and the Rhone.  Get ready to impress your friends! 

Already know these things?  Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the different wine selections - they're really good!

"Sublime.  A highlight of our trip to Paris."

Best Paris Gourmet Dinner Cruises, Tours, & Meals

10.  savor a gourmet dinner on this seine river evening cruise.

The Evening Cruise with Dinner on the Seine River gives you the perfect combination of a gourmet dinner and panoramic views of Paris's most famous monuments such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the medieval towers of the Conciergerie, the Eiffel Tower, and the Beaux-Arts architecture of the Orsay Museum as you glide past on a glass-enclosed cruise boat.

Your choices:  Choose the 2.5 hour cruise starting at 8:30 pm if you want to enjoy live music and a more leisurely experience, or the 1.15 hour cruise at 6 pm if you have other plans such as a concert for later in the evening.  You also choose your level of "service," which determines your seating location (pro tip: all tables provide excellent views; choose a round table up front or window table for the most romantic vibe), and whether or not you get extras such as an aperitif, cheese course, etc.  Finally, once you're at your table, you get to select your menu items for each course.

The experience:   You can expect delicious food and wine, and magical views from the windows.

"Beautiful and romantic experience.  Excellent food and wine.  Great value for the money.  We loved it."

11.  Best Gourmet Dining on a Bus Tour: 5-Course Dinner Plus Champagne on the Bus Toqué Tour

The Bus Toqué Tour with 5-Course Dinner & Champagne - a double-decker bus with panoramic windows and glass roof outfitted with tables like a bistro - lets you pair a fantastic 5-course gourmet meal of French cuisine prepared in the on-board kitchen with a tour through Paris of top attractions such as the Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, and Notre Dame.  Includes a glass of Champagne.

The experience:   It's like having a gourmet meal in a top restaurant, but with the added bonus of sightseeing - perfect way to make the most of your time in the City of Light.

"Sublime food and Champagne, plus great views of the city.  Perfect way to spend our first night in Paris."

12.  Best Lunch with Wine & Cheese Pairings

Wine and cheese make the perfect pairing, and they're the focus in this Wine and Cheese Lunch in a beautiful tasting room in a wine bar near the Louvre.  You'll try five different wines including Champagne) from five different regions of France as your sommelier explains why they pair well with specific cheeses.

Cool to know:  The hotel particulier (mansion) where the wine bar is located once belonged to Madame de Pompadour, the official chief mistress (yes, that was really a title) of King Louis XV back in the 1700s.

Bonus:   You get to sample a selection of smoked ham and saucisson,  and experience how well that also pairs with wine.

"The wines and cheeses were memorable, and we learned a lot.  This was a wonderful afternoon activity, and a relaxing break from sightseeing."

Best Paris Market Tours & Cooking Experiences

13.  visit a paris market & enjoy a cooking class with a paris chef.

During the Market Visit and Cooking Class with a French Chef experience, you'll explore street market with a professional Paris chef, who will give you tips on how to find the highest-quality fresh produce and other local foods.  Then, you'll participate in a cooking class where the chef will show you how to use simple recipes to make a 3-course meal including first course, main course, and dessert with your purchases.

Highlights:  You get to eat what you cooked!  (And it's also really cool to get to see the chef's personal kitchen, equipment, and Paris apartment.)

Bonus:   The chef will email the recipes to you so that you can make the meal again once you get home.

"I was surprised by how much I learned!  And our meal was fantastic.  My best Paris experience so far."

14.  Learn How Baguettes, Croissants, & Pastries Are Made at a Top Paris Bakery

If you're a fan of French bread and pastry, 2-Hour Behind the Scenes Bakery Tour, you will be fascinated to see how it's all made.  In this kid-friendly experience, you get to go into the kitchen of a top Paris bakery, where the host will show you the all the different mixers, equipment, and the super-high quality ingredients from different parts of France.  As they go about their regular work, the bakers will demonstrate all the steps and techniques for making baguettes, croissants, tarts, and other goodies.

Highlights:  You'll get to do a few things yourself!

Bonus:   You start your experience with a breakfast of croissants and pain au chocolat at the bakery.  When you leave, you get a fresh-baked baguette to take with you.

"So much fun!  We were thrilled to get an insider's view of a real Paris bakery."     ~ Albert & Jean

15.  Explore Paris's Marche d'Aligre: 3 Markets in 1!

Discover Paris's Marché d'Aligre 2-Hour Market Tour unknown to many tourists, where you'll discover and explore one of the city's most sprawling and interesting market areas.  Your guide will lead you through Aligre's three markets:  an indoor covered market packed with specialty products, an outdoor area where vendors display a vast selection of fresh produce, and finally, one of the city's most popular flea markets where you can look for (and maybe find) a vintage treasure.

This tour is for you if:  You want to get off the well-beaten tourist path and explore an authentic part of the "real" Paris.

Bonus:   You get to taste a variety of specialty foods, and sip mint tea in a corner cafe.

Pamela:  "I felt immersed in real Parisian life in this market - fantastic experience."

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• Eiffel Tower - Enjoy sweeping views of Paris
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• Paris Museum Pass - Choose 2, 4, or 6 days
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Happening in Paris

January in Paris

• The famous Paris winter sales, concerts, new museum exhibits

February in Paris

• Valentine's Day, Chinese New Year Parades

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• Mardi Gras, Fountain Shows at Versailles, French Open

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July in Paris

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• Free concerts & movies, Rock En Seine

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October in Paris

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November in Paris

• Armistice Day, Salon du Chocolat

December in Paris

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• Menorah lightings 

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• Holiday celebrations & decorations

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• Gifts, holiday food, mulled wine, and Santa

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WALK TALK EAT FRANCE FULLY PRIVATE GUIDED TOURS

Gourmet tours france.

About Walk Talk Eat Tours in France

 wonders await you in the dordogne, in the heart of southwestern france, between bordeaux and lyon, lies the hidden treasure that is the region of the ,  dordogne..

• Be  prepared to be captivated by its breath-taking landscapes, historic castles, untouched nature, and world-renowned gastronomy featuring sumptuous black truffles, delicious walnuts, and decadent foie gras. A getaway to the Dordogne promises an unmatched experience. 

We specialise in private & personal small group tours of 2-8 persons. 

We conduct tours in French German and English Language

Our Tours are fully escorted so you are cared for the entire holiday

It is what sets us apart from large impersonal tour groups.

Everything is organised for you for your entire journey. 

 Exclusively designed itineraries to suit you and to discover the most stunning, beautiful, popular & unmissable regions of France.

We are based in The Dordogne Valley, so Bordeaux, Sarlat Le Caneda and Lot Valley in south west is our back yard. 

 We are local specialists here. 

We also travel with our clients on to other destinations  

 the Luberon & Provence region in the south,  

 the Loire Valley in the centre.

 A  new tour in 2023 is The war beaches of Normandy 

and Le Mont St Michel

 Each year we have requests from many past and existing clients, we also plan a walk of the popular and easy, last 140 kms of the pilgrims route in Northern Spain from Saria to Santiago De Compostela  for those who are interested to join in a wonderful walk through Spanish country side planed for  September 2024.

*DORDOGNE VALLEY  &  SARLAT TOURS*

  DRIVER & GUIDE 

  CONTACT  GABRIELLE  DIRECTLY +33 6 43 85 95 48 

What our past clients have to say

RUTH W. 

Canada  

RATING 5 STARS  

TOUR: Prehistoric Cave art and the Dordogne Valley 5 Day Private Tour, Bordeaux, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France  

   DATE:  Apr 2022 

I had wonderful 5 day tour of the prehistoric cave art in the Dordogne region with Gabrielle. I saw over 10 caves, a museum, old historical towns and chateaux. 

Gabrielle had everything organized perfectly and I didn't have to do anything or worry at all. She took me to amazing restaurants every day and she's a chef so she knows the good stuff. Her enthusiasm for the art in the caves never stopped by the 5th day. She never drove recklessly and always knew where everything was on the small country roads.

HEIDI KLEIN 

Sydney, australia.

TOUR:  5 day - Provence  & Luberon 

-  Avignon to  Aix en Provence , France DATE: Oct 2022

It has been a  most memorable  week in the Provence with our Guide Gabrielle.

She organised every thing down to smallest of detail and was flexible when we needed to change our departure Everything was no problem for her  and the tour she planned was just what we wanted  it was fabulous. Best antique markets  and pretty villages  the food was always delicious at specially chosen restaurants and a wonderful picnic amongst the lavender and although the lavender was not in bloom it was interesting to visit little factories where they made essential oils . We will be back to do the Loire Tour as we already know it will be fabulous.

MARK DUDA      

United states ,                                                 .

TOUR:  Prehistoric Cave Art In Dordogne & the Lot Valley-3 Days Tour, Bordeaux, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France    

DATE: June 2023

We'll be back.Our tour guide Gabby was fantastic. 

We hired her for three days of prehistoric cave touring. she was on time, prepared and knowledgeable. gabby not only knows the prehistoric history of the area but all aspects of the dordogne region - the people, food, wine, culture and restaurants. , i am convinced if we had to tour on our own it would have taken a week to do the things we did in two days. thank you. .

SUSAN  DAVIS         

Melbourne, Australia                                       RATING 5 STARS

TOUR:  Luberon & Provence & Dordogne  8 Day tour, Avignon France     DATE:  June 2022 & May2023

Its was my 2nd tour  with , gabrielle she is so lovely  very kind, welcoming and knowledgeable. each year she has made a fully escorted  private tour  just for me and my  best friend susan. we are elderly  ladies  in our 80's who just still want to be able to travel  our husbands no longer with us and she goes  above and beyond to ensure we  are cared for and have such a wonderful time.  we very much enjoy our time with her and hope to be able to have one last trip next year , bob & bunny lenard, atlanta georgia usa, october 2022, ***** we would give gabrielle wise 10 stars but given the parameters will do 5. my husband and i had an in depth look at the magnificent dordogne and surrounding areas. gabrielle would adjust the scheduling according to weather, market day etc. so that we could experience everything on a 'local' level. she is incredibly knowledgeable, has a great sense of humor, is a wonderful driver and went above and beyond. for example, we drove to domme from sarlat on a beautiful day but the ground fog had not dissipated so we could not view the valley. later that afternoon, gabrielle drove us back to domme so we could view the spectacular scenery. we went to marvelous restaurants, sampled wonderful foods, saw gorgeous scenery, met lovely people and fell in love with the area. the history of the area is fascinating and we learned so much from wonderful gabrielle. her enthusiasm and love for the area is unparalleled. we can not recommend her highly enough. she truly is the best , cynthia s.              , united states, rating 5 stars, tour:  the loire valley sancerre wine chateau chambord chenonceau &  amboise , loire, france   date:  aug 31, 2023, my party of 6  had a great and memorable time as gabrielle shared with us many of the beautiful  castles and dramatic sights of the loire region. our accommodation was perfect not changing hotels , she is very knowledgeable and knows all of the amazing, almost secret, places that you would likely miss on your own, like  a tiny porcelain factory along the loire river , she is also a great driver, which seems to me to be important in this terrain. , she is personable and flexible; she is everything you would ask for in a tour guide.       , tours in the dordogne, tours in the luberon & provence, tours in the loire valley, photo gallery, january - sarlat truffle festival sold out, may & june september & october- dordogne valley.

7 Day in Salat Le Caneda France in Dordogne region collecting prized truffles. A  Gourmet food and wine tour. 

https://en.sarlat-tourisme.com/discover-sarlat-and-the-perigord/the-great-events-

of-sarlat/the-truffle-fete-of-sarlat/

Walk the cobbled streets of historic  Sarlat  with its famous gourmet Markets

Fois Gras truffles.  Cooking Classes  cheese tasting  of course there is our delicious local wines.

May & June Sept & October -Prehistoric Cave art

The Dordogne region has the largest collection of Cave art in the world. Lascaux is the sistine chapel of prehistoric art.  

Visit the best Lascaux Font de Gaume   Pech Merle, Rouffignac  and many more  private caves 

2024 Saria to Santiago-De Compostela

May & june & september best of the dordogne valley region.

Walk with the pilgrims the 140 km From St Saria to Santiago De Compostela. we are 

In planning for our 2nd  walk  in September 2024

Register your interest.

June & September - Loire Valley

Glamour and riches of the French aristocracy. 

Starting in the Sancerre wine region  traversing along the Loire River  and visiting grand and luxurious  Chateaux  along the way 

Traverse your way through the beautiful Dordogne region and Lot Valley. History  arts food and stunning landscapes

Fairy tale villages and ancient castles  and lots of regional specialities to try along the way 

September & October Luberon and Provence

September camino de santiago de compostela.

Immerse yourself in all things 

The region from Avignon to Aix en Provence has to offer .

Antique Markets,  Stunning hilltop villages and fields of  lavender .

 10 days  Walk 140 km  from Saria  to Santiago De Compostela Cathedral.

 Its a  slow pace to enjoy  the wonderful Spanish hospitality & you receive the certificate of Pilgrimage on arrival in Santiago

Design your own Private tour

Mix and match itineraries to suit your interest

Fully escorted tours for Solo and  couple travellers. 

By enquiry with Gabrielle 

Sign up to win a week holiday in the Dordogne Valley France

Your tour is complimentary when you travel with your paying companion. 5 days full accommodation with breakfast in a lovely restored country farm house "Esparoutis " near the medieval town of Sarlat Including walking talking Eating and touring each day. Tour to be taken within 1 year of winning on a scheduled tour Be the first to hear about upcoming tours, special new events. and special offers.

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Special Requests Available

For  individuals & small group tours, we can customize an itinerary to emphasize your interests. If you have a special request, send us a message, and we will be sure to get back to you soon.

Walk Talk Eat France

Domme, Dordogne 24250, FR

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The 7 Best Lyon Food Tours in France’s Gastronomic Capital

Published 06 November 2023 by  Leyla Alyanak  — Parisian by birth, Lyonnaise by adoption, historian by passion

Lyon is known for many things - and great food is at the top of the list. If you're looking for an introduction to the city's food specialties, taking one of these 7 Lyon food tours is the best way to start. 

Walking tours are ideal to discover Lyon and lyonnaise cuisine.

My first Lyon food tour was typical: it involved walking around the Old Town, sampling everything from pralines to saucisson. But the best part was meeting the various restaurant and shop owners, who explained the "why" of dishes, and the stories behind them.

NOTE: Pages on this site may contain affiliate links, which bring in a small commission at no cost to you.

NO TIME TO READ EVERYTHING?

Just want the #1 best Lyon food tour? 

Secret Food Tours Lyon with Private Food Tour Option

This tour has it all, from delicious food samples of local specialties to authentic French wine. Their local guides are filled with knowledge about Lyon’s food culture and they have over 200 five-star reviews.

Book It Now!

7 Best food tours in LYON

• 1. Secret Food Tours Lyon with Private Tour Option
• 2. Lyon Old Town Half-Day Walking Food Tour with Local Specialties Tasting & Lunch
• 3. Vieux Lyon 4-Hour Food Tasting Tour
• 4. Lyon: Food Walking Tour with a Local Guide
• 5. Food Tour in Lyon - Do Eat Better Experience
• 6. Lyon Vegan Food Tour
• 7. Lyon Electric Bike Tour including Food Tasting with a Local Guide

The 7 Best Lyon Food Tours

Below you’ll find a list of the top 7 food tours to take in Lyon, and they're all highly rated, with a minimum of 4.5 out of 5 stars (most actually have 5/5).

Lyon has over 4,000 restaurants that feature French cuisine, including many local and regional specialties. Food has long been an important part of the local culture, and many of the best-loved recipes have been passed down through generations − that's how important food is here.

Most Lyon food gourmet tours traditionally involve a walk through the historic old town, where you'll visit several establishments and sample food and wine. A few other tours may take you to different parts of town, like the vegan tour that goes to Croix-Rousse or the bike tour that explores several parts of Lyon. 

Whichever you choose will be a great start to your Lyon culinary adventure − and you won't have to face the overwhelming decisions of what to try first, where, and you'll gain plenty of insight into the food culture. 

Let me add that many of the Lyon food tours are similar, varying only in length and the choice of local artisans along the way, whether charcuterie producers or praline makers. They're all highly rated and you'll do well with any of them.

Also, descriptions are accurate at the time of writing but stops and samples may change, so be sure to click through and check before you book!

1. Secret Food Tours Lyon with Private Food Tour Option

Indulge in the best of French cuisine including freshly baked pastries, a traditional Canut breakfast sampling, Lyonnais sweet treats, French cheeses, and a secret dish on this tasty Lyon food tour − which also, by the way, includes a tasting of French wine. 

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3.5 hours    ✔︎  Sample a traditional Canut (silk weaver's) breakfast ✔︎  Fresh pastries ✔︎  Hot dish in a traditional "bouchon" ✔︎  Creamy French cheeses ✔︎ Walk through the Old Town in the heart of Lyon ✔︎ French red and white wine

🍽️  BOOK YOUR SECRET FOOD TOUR HERE

This secret food tour in Lyon will explore the Old Town Neighborhood of the city. The group is limited to 12 people so it is the perfect way to experience the food culture in Lyon without a large crowd. 

You can also book this as a completely private tour for just your group. Not only does a private tour give you a more personalized experience, but it also can fit better with your schedule as you can select a start time based on your needs.

⭐️  Rating: 5 / 5  ⭐️

“Highly recommended, you get to see some of the sights of Lyon and taste your way through some true culinary delights.” －John

"Charlotte provided us with such knowledge of Lyon (and all of France) and brought us to the most amazing food stops. Would absolutely take another Secret Food tour!! － Samantha E.

See more reviews here

2. Lyon Old Town Half-Day Walking Food Tour with Local Specialties

This half-day food tour takes place in Lyon’s historic old town and stops  at 6 different establishments, where you'll taste 10 different local specialities, meet local food producers and learn more about Lyon’s incredible gastronomical scene. Make sure you show up for this tour hungry, because it also includes a delicious lunch.

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours    ✔︎  10 food tastings in 6 different establishments ✔︎  Passionate and expert guides ✔︎  Small group with a maximum of 12 people ✔︎  Walk through Lyon’s Old Town and meet local producers ✔︎  Lunch included

🍷  BOOK YOUR OLD LYON TOUR HERE

This highly rated food tour is limited to a small group of 12, so you’ll get a personalized experience and be able to interact with the local guide.

The tour takes place in Lyon’s old town and includes a walking tour to learn more about the history and culture of the neighborhood.

⭐️ Rating: 5 / 5 ⭐️

“This was by far the best tour we did while in France! A perfect combination of history, seeing the city, and trying plenty of food (with generous portions)." －Maria

"Wonderful meeting the shop owners and seeing the obvious pride they have in their products!" －Nicol_W "We loved every place we stopped at and appreciated they were all locally owned and operated. The entire tour was wonderful! I highly recommend it!" －Diane_M

3. Vieux Lyon 4-Hour Food Tasting Tour

Another exploration of Vieux Lyon takes place with this 4-hour Lyon food tour, during which you'll taste 14 delicious local products. As part of your tour, you'll explore  St Jean Cathedral, along with Old Lyon's traboules, or secret passageways, once used by merchants to keep their silk cloth dry.

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours    ✔︎  14 food tastings at 5 different places, equivalent to a typical lunch ✔︎  Expert local guide ✔︎  Walk through Lyon’s Old Town, one of Europe's largest Renaissance areas ✔︎ See the Cathedral of St. Jean and the famous passageways

🍗  BOOK YOUR OLD LYON 4-HR FOOD TOUR HERE

This tour mixes history and food tastings and gives you the chance to explore Lyon’s oldest neighborhood while tasting some delicious food. Your guide will show you 5 different places where you can enjoy local food tastings and learn more about the food culture of Lyon.

⭐️  Rating: 4.8 / 5  ⭐️

“Our tour was outstanding. Three tours in one. Historical, architectural, and, of course, culinary. Superbly well-designed and managed by Erick, who was extremely well-versed in the history and origins of food in Lyon.” － Anonymous

4. Lyon Food Walking Tour with a Local Guide

This Old Town walking tour stops at 4 different places to meet with local artisans to learn more about French cuisine in Lyon.  This afternoon food tour allows you to sample some of the best French food, including typical dishes – an assortment of regional cheeses, local cold-cut meats, brioche, praline pie and artisanal regional ice cream, along with French wine and local beer.

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours     ✔︎  10 food tastings at 4 different places ✔︎ Expert local guide and small group tour ✔︎  Local cold cuts with red wine ✔︎ Selection of regional cheeses with white wine ✔︎ Praline pie and chocolates ✔︎  Alcoholic beverages included

🍫  BOOK YOUR WALKING FOOD TOUR HERE

This food-tasting tour offers late afternoon starting times, which is perfect for anyone wanting to do their sightseeing in the morning, and is capped at 12 people to keep it small and intimate.

⭐️  Rating: 4.7 / 5  ⭐️

"Our guide was both knowledgeable and passionate about Lyon, its history, and its food. The food samples were VERY good. A great way to explore Vieux Lyon.” －Mitch

5. Do Eat Better Lyon Food Tour

Lyon is the perfect destination for foodies, and this food-tasting tour is sure to meet expectations for some delicious French cuisine. Wander through the Old Town of Lyon while making stops at 5 different places for some unique food tastings.

Try such Lyonnaise specialties as pike quenelle (dumplings) with rice, cervelle de Canut (a creamy cheese dip), praline brioche, and more while your guide explains more details about food culture in Lyon.

⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 3.5 hours    ✔︎  5 unique food tastings at 5 different locations ✔︎  Local expert guide ✔︎  Try cervelle de canut, the artisanal creamy cheese, and taste a pike quenelle ✔︎ Top it off with a praline brioche and a typical Lyon sweet, the "coussin lyonnais" ✔︎ Wine and bottled water included ✔︎ Small group tour

🍭  BOOK YOUR DO EAT BETTER TOUR HERE

This small group tour is limited to 10 or fewer participants so that you can sample the foods promptly and have a chance to ask questions. The tour visits local artisan shops, bakeries, and more in the area of Lyon’s Old Town.

⭐️  Rating: 4.5 / 5  ⭐️

“Great to be informed about the local delicacies and introduced to new things we hadn’t come across yet. Perfect sized group.” － Shannon

"We enjoyed the great local people, shops and food and Baptiste's connections across Vieux Lyon. A must experience for anyone." －Neal_E

6. Lyon Vegan Food Tour

This vegan food tour in Lyon is an incredible food-tasting experience for those who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet and lifestyle, and as of this writing, this is the only vegan tour in the city of Lyon. 

Not only will you get to experience some of the best vegan food in France, but you will also get to taste foods from a few of the best vegan restaurants in Lyon. Your professional guide will also be able to give you recommendations on where to eat vegan or vegetarian-friendly food during your stay in Lyon.

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours    ✔︎  Vegan food tastings ✔︎  Local expert guide ✔︎  Explore the bohemian Croix-Rousse neighborhood of Lyon ✔︎ Perfect tour option for vegans and vegetarians

🍇  BOOK YOUR VEGAN FOOD TOUR HERE

This small-group tour features 100% vegan food tastings, but you don’t have to be vegan to enjoy it. It is also a great option for people who want to try something different from the typical food tours in Old Town, whether they are vegan or not.

The tour explores the Croix-Rousse neighborhood of Lyon, which has an artsy, bohemian feel to it. This was once home to the silk weavers and their workshops, and today, it is filled with beautiful street murals, art galleries, and eateries.

⭐️ Rating: 5 / 5 ⭐️

“Lulu is a super guide. In addition to taking us to many fine vegan restaurants and a patisserie, she showed us the Croix-Rousse on a very interesting tour.” －Fred_H

"Don’t eat ahead of time… portions are generous. Guide is super knowledgeable about vegan jam and Croix-Rousse history. All around happy with my choice!" －Naomi_B

"I am a non-vegan (and non-vegetarian) and booked this tour because my children are vegetarians. I was pleasantly surprised and pleased at how good the food was on this tour!" － Anonymous

7. Lyon Electric Bike Guided Tour With Food Tasting

Combine a food tour in Lyon with sightseeing on this electric bike tour with food tastings. A local guide will take you around the highlights of Lyon by electric bike, seeing all the interesting sites in Lyon’s UNESCO-heritage old town and along the beautiful Rhône River.

Your guide will tell you more about the history of Lyon and how it became known as the food capital of France. In addition to stopping at several historical sites, you’ll wrt stop at a local eatery to sample some of Lyon’s best foods.

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours    ✔︎  Electric bicycle and helmet ✔︎  Option to book a 2.5-hour tour or 4-hour tour ✔︎  Local expert guide ✔︎  Explore Lyon’s Old Town pedestrian zone ✔︎ Stop at a local eatery for delicious food samples ✔︎  Glass of wine or drink of your choice ✔︎  Small group tour

🥖  BOOK YOUR ELECTRIC BIKE TOUR HERE

On this tour of Lyon, you’ll see important sites such as the Place Bellecour, Place des Terreaux, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, and more. The food stop at a local restaurant will also allow you to taste some of the famous Lyon cuisine. 

This is a great option for those who want to combine food tasting with sightseeing on either a 2.5-hour or a 4-hour tour. Both tours include food tasting and sightseeing, but the 4-hour tour includes a ride up to La Croix-Rousse for incredible views of Lyon.

“The bikes were fun and the route was quite safe. It is a great orientation to everything you would want to see in Lyon. Bring a refillable water bottle!” —Mike

"Definitely need electric bike to go up steep hills – effortless via e-bike and well worth going." —Awi_K

"A fantastic tour of the overall layout of the city along with a great pit stop for wine and a snack. Do this one early on your trip so you can take full advantage of all their recommendations for food, shopping, and fun local experiences." —Spencer_R

Before you go...

In my story on Lyon as the  world capital of gastronomy,   read all about the Lyonnaise mothers, or mères lyonnaises, who contributed so much to the city's local culture as chefs during the 19th century.

Lyon is home to many regional and local food specialties, many with recipes passed down through generations.

Eating well is important here, and is one of the best things to do in Lyon .

My favorite foodie activity? Spend a few hours in  Les Halles Paul Bocuse , the city's covered market with a wide range of high-end products.

So go out, explore, and eat to your heart's content!

HEADED TO LYON?

🏙️ A Lyon City Pass covers your transportation and most attractions

🏢 Have a look at hotel availability during your stay

🙋‍♀️ Sign up for an interesting Lyon tour to learn more about the city

Bonjour! I’m Leyla, born in Paris, I now live in the bucolic mountain foothills of Eastern France. My days are spent exploring my country. 

As a journalist and former diplomat, I spent years living abroad and now, it’s time to rediscover my own back yard.

Passionate about history and culture, I’ve created Offbeat France to seek out my country’s mysteries and legends, less-traveled destinations, with plenty of food stops and many castles – I am French, after all!  Read more here .

Did you enjoy this article? I'd love if you shared it!

Bonjour! I’m Leyla - I was born in Paris and now live in the bucolic mountain foothills of Eastern France between Lyon and Annecy. My days are spent exploring my country. 

I'm rediscovering my own back yard after years of living abroad as a journalist and diplomat - and I'm loving every minute.

Passionate about history and culture, I’ve created Offbeat France to seek out my country’s mysteries and legends, less-traveled destinations, along with plenty of food stops and many castles – I am French, after all!

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France is renowned for its gourmet food and fine wine, making it a mecca for foodies and wine lovers alike. French cuisine is a unique blend of rich, indulgent flavors, and sophisticated techniques that have earned it a reputation as one of the world's most exquisite cuisines. It is a cuisine that is heavily influenced by regional traditions, with each region boasting its own specialty dishes and ingredients. One of the most famous French dishes is coq au vin, which is made by braising chicken in red wine with bacon, mushrooms, and herbs. Another popular dish is bouillabaisse, a seafood soup originating from Marseille. French cheese is also renowned worldwide, with over 400 different varieties, including Camembert, Roquefort, and Brie. When it comes to wine, France is home to some of the world's most famous wine regions, including Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne. Bordeaux produces red wines known for their complexity, while Burgundy is famous for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Champagne is renowned for its sparkling wines, which are made using traditional methods and are considered some of the best in the world.

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A gourmet tour of Montpellier with Anne-Sophie

Inspiration

Occitanie Food and Wine Cities

Reading time: 0 min Published on 9 March 2023, updated on 15 April 2024

She loves Montpellier because it’s a dynamic, young, and sunny city... just 10 minutes from the Med. Anne-Sophie (AKA Georgette) is a blogger. Here she takes us on a tour of her favourite streets, where she has found everything from artisan boutiques and bric-a-brac shops to tea rooms and concept stores.

An extended coffee break.

Right at the top of the Rue de l’Université in the heart of Montpellier’s old town, Mary Cherry’s little Bake Shop has been delighting locals’ taste buds since 2013. Sit in or takeaway it offers cupcakes, cheesecakes, brownies, ice cream, or banana bread. Always seasonal and always homemade.

The place to be for vegans and yogis

Joy Healthy Food: I love this little place, a mix of yoga studio, cafe, juice bar, neo-bistro, and delicatessen. I’d recommend Sunday brunch. It’s to die for.

The up-and-coming neighbourhood.

I love strolling through Lez market. A little village of its own within the city where shops, jumble sales, restaurants, start-ups, and concept stores rub shoulders... all in a trendy industrial setting.

A sure thing on Sundays.

Still in Lez market, I just love Baraquette with its cutting edge interior, winter brunches, and summer BBQs.

Vegetarian HQ.

As a vegetarian, Green Lab is my favourite spot in the old town, whether sitting in with one of their amazingly colourful dishes, or taking away one of their pita breads and delicious fillings. More importantly, they also do the best falafels in Montpellier.

Catching up with friends.

La Barbote isn’t far from the train station, and it’s the best microbrewery for miles around. They even do unpretentious snacks to go with your drinks. Perfect for a night out with friends!

A whole new playground

I love Montpellier’s new Port-Marianne neighbourhood. Firstly, it offers wide open spaces, and it has everything: little shops and supermarkets, restaurants and concept stores. For example, I found Le Nuage, which is home to a restaurant, gym, and beauty bar, amongst others.

More things to do.

Parc du Peyrou You can’t come to Montpellier without going for a walk in Peyrou Park. Just 5 minutes from the city centre, it affords great views of the region. You’ll find bric-a-brac stalls there on a Sunday morning.

Montpellier Opera House Just once in your life you have to go to an opera like this one! An original programme and special rates for young people.

• Plan your trip to Montpellier
• https://www.tourisme-occitanie.com/

By 安-苏菲（Anne-Sophie）

Anne-Sophie started the blog Les Envies de Georgette in 2012 when she was still living in Paris. She blogs about fashion, travel, and lifestyle. In 2013, she settled in Montpellier for good.

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