Stories related to France :

We dug deeper into five of our favorite historic show-stoppers. Each holds a place in history and legend. And each has an epic story to tell. All you have to do is listen.

April Fools’ Day has its share of origin stories. Trouble is, no one knows which is true and which are, well, malarkey. Here’s one that we like: For centuries, the ancient Roman Empire ran on the Julian calendar, named for Julius Caesar. Back then, New Year’s Day was recognized as April 1. In 1592, Pope... Read more »

  Part medieval castle, part Italian villa, classic French châteaux can be found in great supply in the beautiful Loire Valley. These elegant homes are often adorned with antique furniture, Renaissance artworks and tapestries, and surrounding ornate gardens. And while most travelers will be able to explore the few that are open to the public,... Read more »

Your morning cup of joe may look a little different when you’re enjoying it in a foreign country. Check out some of our favorite ways to drink coffee on our VBT adventures. And make sure you take some time for a coffee break during your travels—you may just discover your new favorite beverage!    ... Read more »

There are dozens of reasons for taking a biking tour of Europe, but art lovers will be especially thrilled by what some of our vacations afford them: a chance to view the homes of some of the world’s most renowned artists and see settings that inspired their masterpieces. France, Spain, and Italy stand out as... Read more »

If red wine is best enjoyed aged, and always served at room temperature, then Beaujolais Nouveau is the ultimate exception to the rules, and a highly celebrated exception at that! At one minute past midnight, on the third Thursday of November, the wine world erupts in a frenzy to distribute, serve and ultimately enjoy a... Read more »

Trying to choose which vacation to take with VBT can be quite the decision since we offer so many amazing tours—over 49 biking and walking vacations to 26 countries. Biking through Europe is a great way to slow down and really immerse yourself into the sights, sounds and culture of the Old World. We thought... Read more »

Looking for VBT Walking Vacations? All VBT Walking Vacations have moved to our sister company, Country Walkers. The same tours you know and love, plus exciting new itineraries, are available to book through their website. If you’re thinking about where to take your next vacation, the breadth of our line of active tours may prove... Read more »

We feel that the only way to fully experience a country that you’re visiting is by cultural discovery, not through the window of a tour bus or with a large group. The best way to do that is to engage with locals and learn about their history, cuisine, crafts and even goods they produce like... Read more »

Caroline J, a longtime associate who seemingly worked in every department at VBT over the years has shared one of her favorite recipes to make a delicious and healthy Salade Nicoise.  Caroline is an avid gardener and supporter of Vermont’s renowned farm-to-table movement and loves making this dish in the summer time when her garden... Read more »