With Euro 2016 in full swing, we thought it would be the perfect time to shine the spotlight on some of our favourite French cruise ports.
Monte Carlo
As a mecca for mega yachts, Monte Carlo offers visitors a quintessential taste of Mediterranean luxury. OK, the 2.8 square kilometre ‘confetti principality’ may not technically be in France, but it’s close enough. Monaco may be tiny, but when it comes to hedonism, the world’s second smallest country knows how to have a good time! Peeping into the world-famous casino, sports car spotting and a stroll along the world’s largest floating dike are just some of the top attractions…
Nice
Experience ‘joie de vivre’ at its finest with a call at the sun kissed city of Nice. Even in the midst of winter temperatures remain mild, and Nice retains its chic seaside atmosphere. With pebble beaches, cobblestone streets and stunning French Riviera views, Nice is a gorgeous place to spend the day. Alternatively, get adventurous and make a beeline for the tiny town of Eze, a towering garden of pathways that sits perched above the glittering Mediterranean Sea.
Saint-Malo
Known as the City of Corsairs, Brittany’s Saint-Malo enchants visitors with its walled municipal and cobblestone alleyways lined with tiny creperies, cafes and clothing boutiques. It’s an unmissable stop for history buffs, with a flourishing sea trade that once made it a target for pirates in the 17th and 18th centuries. In summer, wealthy Brits and Parisians flock to their summer residences to soak up the sunshine and salty air. For an alternative day trip, nearby Mont Saint-Michel (the famous medieval abbey and village that perches on tidal flats) is a picture postcard experience that’ll take your breath away.
Villefranche
The laid back cousin of its flashier counterparts like Nice, Cannes and Monaco, Villefranche is a beautiful port with a history dating back to the 14th century. It’s got an intrinsically romantic feel, and is a wonderful place to spend a day relaxing and soaking up the French Riviera sunshine.
Normandy
More than just the gateway to Paris, Normandy is an endlessly intriguing port. Discover the historic Allied landing sites where 1944’s D-Day attacks unfolded, reconnoitre picturesque French countryside and visit attractions like the Musee des Beaux Arts Andre Malraux, a gallery that boasts one of the world’s finest collections of Impressionist paintings.
Discover France
When it comes to French cruise ports, these five incredible stops offer a mere glimpse of what’s on offer. For more information on cruises to France, the Mediterranean and Europe, reach out to one of our friendly Cruise 1st customer service agents on 0808 2746 777.
