How to Plan the Perfect Student Trip to France: A Complete Guide by Evolve Tours
France is a dream destination for teachers planning educational travel. Whether your students are studying French, European history, art, or global politics, few countries offer a more powerful combination of curriculum relevance and unforgettable experiences.
At Evolve Tours, we’ve been leading student trips around the world since 2006. France continues to be one of our most requested and rewarding destinations—for good reason. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to plan a safe, enriching, and memorable school trip to France. We hope you enjoy our How to plan the perfect student trip to France.
Why Plan a Student Trip to France?
From the Eiffel Tower to the beaches of Normandy, France is a country that tells its stories through architecture, cuisine, and living culture. A student trip here immerses your class in the beauty of the French language, the legacy of revolutions and world wars, and the art that has shaped modern civilization.
Top Reasons to Choose France For A School Trip
- A top destination for French language and cultural immersion
- Explore Paris, Normandy, Provence, and the French Riviera
- See iconic landmarks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- A perfect blend of history, art, politics, and culinary traditions
When Is the Best Time to Visit France With Students?
School groups typically travel to France in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). These seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and affordable rates.
Trip durations range from 7 to 12 days, depending on your group’s location and itinerary.
What Kind of Educational Trips Can You Plan in France?
France offers a wealth of possibilities based on your group’s focus.
French Language Immersion
Practice conversational French, stay with host families, and take language workshops in Paris, Nice, or smaller towns like Tours.
History & Politics
Explore France’s revolutionary past, visit World War II memorials in Normandy, or tour Versailles and the birthplace of democracy.
Art & Culture
Tour the Louvre, visit Monet’s gardens in Giverny, and explore the ateliers of Montmartre or the modern art at Centre Pompidou.
Culinary & Lifestyle
Enjoy patisserie workshops, visit French markets, and explore the slow food movement with regional tastings and farm visits.
Top Cities and Activities for Student Travel in France
Paris
- Eiffel Tower – France’s most iconic landmark
- Louvre Museum – See the Mona Lisa and thousands of priceless works
- Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe – A walking tour of power and beauty
- Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur – Explore this bohemian art district
- Seine River Cruise – A nighttime boat tour of illuminated Paris
Normandy
- D-Day Beaches & Memorials – Visit Juno, Omaha, and Arromanches
- Caen Memorial Museum – Deepen understanding of WWII and the Holocaust
- Bayeux Tapestry Museum – Discover medieval storytelling through art
Loire Valley & Versailles
- Château de Chambord or Chenonceau – Visit fairytale castles
- Palace of Versailles – Tour the Hall of Mirrors and royal gardens
- French countryside – Bike rides, vineyard tours, and language immersion programs
Provence or French Riviera
- Nice, Avignon, or Aix-en-Provence – Great for language + lifestyle programs
- Roman Ruins in Arles or Nîmes – Explore the remnants of Gaul
Where Should Student Groups Stay?
Hotels
Well-located 2–3-star hotels in central Paris or other cities are safe and group-friendly, with multiple students per room.
Hostels
A budget-friendly option with clean, modern accommodations and flexible meal plans.
Homestays
Perfect for language programs—students live with vetted host families and practice daily immersion.
Where Should Students Eat in France?
Food is a cornerstone of French culture—and a highlight for students. Evolve Tours arranges group meals with variety and dietary accommodations.
Typical Student Meals:
- Breakfast at the hotel: pastries, fruit, yogurt, and juice
- Group lunches: cafés, crêperies, or sandwich shops
- Group dinners: pre-arranged menus featuring regional specialties like ratatouille, quiche, or coq au vin (plus vegetarian options)
Pro tip: Let students try local bakeries and markets for lunch during free time in safe zones like the Latin Quarter or Marais district.
How Should Student Groups Travel Around France ?
Within Cities
In Paris
Use the Métro with prepaid passes for fast and efficient travel. Evolve Tours provides students with navigation guidance and safety protocols.
Between Cities
For larger groups, a private coach is ideal for inter-city travel to Normandy, Loire Valley, or Provence.
Long Distances
France’s TGV (high-speed train) connects Paris to Nice, Lyon, or Avignon in a matter of hours.
Should You Use a Student Travel Company To Plan The Perfect School Trip France?
Working with a reputable travel provider like Evolve Tours ensures:
- Expertly designed itineraries tailored for learning outcomes
- Trained local guides and tour directors
- 24/7 emergency support and first-aid certified staff
- All logistics handled – meals, transport, hotels, bookings
- Access to group discounts and insider cultural experiences
How to Choose a Reliable Student Travel Provider
Reputation: Look for schools they’ve worked with before
Response Time: A trustworthy company communicates quickly
Custom Options: The best providers offer flexible, customized itineraries
Experienced Guides: Qualified and engaging trip leaders are key
Referrals: Ask for reviews or school references
Final Tips: How To Plan The Perfect School Trip to France
Decide on a focus: education, culture, adventure, or a mix
Choose the right time of year and destinations
Promote the trip with posters, parent nights, and sign-up forms
Organize passports, insurance, and dietary preferences
Set a payment schedule and start collecting deposits
Prepare student packing lists and rooming assignments
Get ready to experience the trip of a lifetime!
At Evolve Tours, we’ve been running student travel experiences since 2006. We specialize in designing immersive, safe, and unforgettable educational tours across France and the world.
📞 Call us: 1-888-222-5066
🌐 Visit: www.evolvetours.com
Let’s bring your classroom to life in France
