Wine tourism in France: Best regions and expert tips

Wine tourism increased by 20% between 2016 and 2023, according to a survey by Atout France.

Foreign wine tourists have seen a particular rise, up 29% compared to 14% for French tourists.

In 2023, 12 million tourists visited France’s wine regions; 6.6 million from France and 5.4 million from abroad. The top international visitors include Britons, Belgians and Americans.

France is not only the world’s second biggest wine producer (after Italy) but a country where wine is an important part of the social and historical fabric.

“What makes France special for a wine holiday is how its culture is intrinsically linked with wine,” said Hannah Greaves of UK-based luxury wine and food tour operator Grape Escapes, which offers tours to many of France’s wine regions.

“For generations, wine has been a deeply woven, integral part of French culture, meaning that visitors will discover centuries of winemaking expertise combined with outstanding gastronomy and a rich cultural heritage.”

Planning a wine holiday in France

France’s 13 main wine regions, which include Champagne, Bordeaux and Burgundy, offer different experiences for wine tourists, says US wine expert Caroline Fazeli, who lives in France and runs Lyon Wine Tastings.

“Some regions are better suited for DIY tourists, such as Alsace, Champagne and Bordeaux. Other regions, like Burgundy or the Rhône, will yield a better experience if you hire a guide.”

However, she stresses visitors should be aware that tourism is not the primary industry of good winemakers in France, so forward planning is essential.

“Don't assume that you can just waltz up to a winery; most of the time, you will need to have an appointment.”

If you are planning a DIY trip, make contact with wineries before you leave home.

“Make a list of producers you'd like to visit, and contact them for appointments. Do research at your favourite independent restaurant, wine bar or wine shop back home – you can always reference that in your communications to the producer,” said Ms Fazeli.

She recommends that those who want a bit of extra help should hire a local guide, who will have strong relationships with winemakers in the region.

When is the best time to visit French vineyards?

Travellers will have the best experience if they visit France for a wine holiday in spring (May-June) or autumn (September-October), said Ms Greaves of Grape Escapes.

“These times of year often bring pleasant, mild weather, and fewer people. Autumn is a special time to visit as you may see the vineyards in beautiful orange hues, and even witness harvest activities if you’re lucky.”

Wine tourists range from experienced wine enthusiasts to those who simply enjoy a glass and are keen to learn more, according to Ms Greaves.

“The beauty of a wine holiday is that it can be enjoyed at any level of knowledge or interest and is a wonderful way to really see and experience a country.”

Which French wine regions do experts recommend?

With so many regions to choose from, which do the experts recommend?

“Alsace has a fantastic wine route with producers who often have infrastructure for walk-ins. This is rare in France,” said Ms Fazeli.

“My all-time favourite region to visit is close to home for me, and an underdog. Beaujolais is just south of Burgundy and I'd argue even more beautiful, full of stunning chateaux and rolling hills of vineyards.

“Their bad reputation from over 20 years ago still precedes them, so even though the wines are fantastic and inexpensive, you can still access great producers who are ready and willing to welcome you (with an appointment).”

Organised wine tours and independent visits

For those keen to do an organised trip, companies like Grape Escapes offer a range of options.

Its whistlestop trip tasting 24 Champagnes in 24 hours starts at £486 (€567), while its 16-day, multi-region ‘Ultimate French Wine Tour’ starts from £5,230 (€6,106).

For tourists happy to go it alone, the experts have plenty of tips.

“Consider whether you have a particular wine region in mind which you’d love to visit, or whether you have more of a preference for a certain style of wine,” said Ms Greaves.

“Don't imagine that it's like California. For most wineries tourism is a secondary or even a tertiary activity.

“Respect the winemaker, don't be drunk, and spit if you're going to drive!

“Many wineries will give you a tour and tasting for free, expecting that you buy some bottles, so make sure that you do.”