Book Now! Pay Later
Take advantage of our low deposits and secure your boating vacation today with just a 25% deposit. 2nd payment (up to 50%) is due by December 31st, 2024. Balance due 90 days before departure.
Gold Trusted Service Award
Gold Trusted Service Award
Awarded by Feefo, which independently collects reviews from our customers, the award recognizes businesses that consistently deliver a world-class customer experience.
Rosette
Boating expertise since 1969
With over 50 years of experience and expertise, we're passionate about providing unbeatable vacations on the water.
Boat
World’s largest fleet
We have more river and canal boats available than any other operator, available to hire between April and October. Our wide range of boats sleeps between 2-12 people.
Life buoy
No boat license required
That's right! You can rent and captain your own boat for a short break (3 nights minimum), a week or longer. We'll show you everything you need to know before you set off.
  • Book Now! Pay Later
    Take advantage of our low deposits and secure your boating vacation today with just a 25% deposit. 2nd payment (up to 50%) is due by December 31st, 2024. Balance due 90 days before departure.
  • Gold Trusted Service Award
    Gold Trusted Service Award
    Awarded by Feefo, which independently collects reviews from our customers, the award recognizes businesses that consistently deliver a world-class customer experience.
  • Rosette
    Boating expertise since 1969
    With over 50 years of experience and expertise, we're passionate about providing unbeatable vacations on the water.
  • Boat
    World’s largest fleet
    We have more river and canal boats available than any other operator, available to hire between April and October. Our wide range of boats sleeps between 2-12 people.
  • Life buoy
    No boat license required
    That's right! You can rent and captain your own boat for a short break (3 nights minimum), a week or longer. We'll show you everything you need to know before you set off.
  • Book Now! Pay Later
    Take advantage of our low deposits and secure your boating vacation today with just a 25% deposit. 2nd payment (up to 50%) is due by December 31st, 2024. Balance due 90 days before departure.
  • Gold Trusted Service Award
    Gold Trusted Service Award
    Awarded by Feefo, which independently collects reviews from our customers, the award recognizes businesses that consistently deliver a world-class customer experience.
  • Rosette
    Boating expertise since 1969
    With over 50 years of experience and expertise, we're passionate about providing unbeatable vacations on the water.
  • Boat
    World’s largest fleet
    We have more river and canal boats available than any other operator, available to hire between April and October. Our wide range of boats sleeps between 2-12 people.
  • Life buoy
    No boat license required
    That's right! You can rent and captain your own boat for a short break (3 nights minimum), a week or longer. We'll show you everything you need to know before you set off.

French bank holiday dates 2024-2025

There’s a common joke that France seems to enjoy an endless supply of bank holidays, with the idea often sparking curiosity about just how many days off the French really have. But is that really the case? While many wonder how many bank holidays in France there are, the country doesn’t actually lead the world in the number of public holidays, though it might feel that way given how integral these days are to French life. 

Timing your trip to France with the French bank holidays offers a unique opportunity to fully experience local culture, whether through lively events or by exploring quieter, less crowded areas. Public holidays in France are when communities truly come alive, and many businesses close, making it a perfect time to experience the country in a different light. 

With Le Boat, you can create a vacation experience that perfectly aligns with these important dates, ensuring your trip is both enjoyable and well-planned. 

French bank holidays 2024-2025

Public holidays in France 2024:

 

HolidayDateRegion
All Saints' Day1 Nov 2024 (Fri)All regions
Armistice Day11 Nov 2024 (Mon)All regions
Christmas Day 25 Dec 2024 (Wed)All regions
St Stephen's Day / St Etienne26 Dec 2024 (Thu)Alsace and Moselle Only 

Public holidays in France 2025: 

HolidayDateRegion
New Year's Day 1 Jan 2025 (Wed) All regions
Good Friday18 Apr 2025 (Fri)  Alsace and Moselle Only 
Easter Monday 21 Apr 2025 (Mon) All regions
Labour Day  1 May 2025 (Thu) All regions
Victory Day 8 May 2025 (Thu) All regions
Ascension Day 29 May 2025 (Thu) All regions
Whit Monday9 Jun 2025 (Mon)All regions 
Bastille Day 14 Jul 2025 (Mon) All regions 
Assumption Day15 Aug 2025 (Fri) All regions 
All Saints' Day 1 Nov 2025 (Sat) All regions 
Armistice Day11 Nov 2025 (Tues) All regions 
Christmas Day 25 Dec 2025 (Thu)All regions 
St Stephens Day/ St Etienne26 Dec 2025 (Fri Alsace and Moselle Only 

How these dates can simplify your vacation planning 

Planning your trip around French bank holidays can significantly enhance your boating vacation experience.

1. Avoiding crowds: 

Traveling during quieter periods allows you to enjoy popular destinations like the Canal du Midi and Burgundy without the usual tourist crowds. You’ll have more space to explore and truly appreciate the beauty of these regions. 

2. Embracing local festivities: 

France's national holidays are filled with cultural events and festivities. By aligning your trip with these dates, you can immerse yourself in authentic French holidays. For example, celebrate Bastille Day in Carcassonne with stunning fireworks over the old medieval city or explore the vibrant local festivals in Brittany

3. Optimizing your itinerary: 

When planning your trip around France's public holidays, understanding how these days might affect your journey is essential to making the most of your experience. By considering the following factors, you can optimize your itinerary to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip: 

  • Locks and waterways: Some locks may be closed on public holidays. It's important to inquire ahead at the base to ensure your planned route won't be disrupted. 
  • Shops and services: Many shops and businesses will likely be closed on public holidays. Planning ahead for your essentials can help you avoid any inconveniences. 
  • Local events: On the positive side, public holidays often bring special events, festivals, and markets to towns and villages along your route. These can be wonderful opportunities to experience the local culture and add a unique touch to your holiday. 
Navegando por el río Lot, Francia

Cultural experiences during French bank holidays 

Bank holidays in France 2024 provide a unique opportunity to dive deep into the country’s rich cultural heritage. Key experiences include: 

1. Festivals and events: 

Participate in traditional celebrations by region: 

  • Bastille Day: Celebrate France’s national holiday with grand fireworks and vibrant parades in cities like Carcassonne along the Canal du Midi. 
  • Wine Harvest Festivals: Experience the joy of the wine harvest season in Burgundy. As you cruise through this famous wine region, you can participate in local festivals celebrating the grape harvest with tastings, music, and traditional festivities. 

2. Seasonal markets: 

Explore markets that reflect the season and local culture: 

  • Canal du Midi’s Spring markets: You'll find lively markets filled with fresh produce, local crafts, and regional delicacies. Canal du Midi’s spring markets are an excellent opportunity to experience the vibrant colors and flavors of the season. 
  • Camargue’s Autumn Harvest markets: Cruising through the Camargue in autumn provides a chance to visit harvest markets brimming with seasonal produce. Here, you can sample local specialties like olives, honey, and rice, all produced in this unique and diverse region. 

 

Lot river and bridge

Exploring lesser-known destinations 

For those seeking tranquility and a more authentic French experience, consider visiting lesser-known destinations during public holidays in France. 

Hidden gems: 

Discover peaceful and picturesque villages away from the main tourist routes: 

  • Nivernais & Loire: Known for its calm waterways and scenic beauty, this region is perfect for a relaxing boating holiday. Highlights include charming villages, historic châteaux, and the vineyards of Sancerre, offering a blend of culture and nature. 
  • Charente: A region rich in history and natural beauty, offering a quieter alternative to the more famous destinations. A region rich in history and natural beauty, Charente offers a quieter alternative to more famous destinations. Explore the historic town of Cognac and enjoy the serene landscapes that make this area a hidden gem. 

Authentic regional experiences: 

Immerse yourself in regions where traditions are still deeply rooted: 

  • Camargue: Explore this wild, natural region known for its unique landscapes and cultural festivals. 
  • Aquitaine: Experience local life, cuisine, and customs in this region, which is less frequented by tourists but offers plenty of charm. 

Planning the perfect boating vacation  

Timing your boating holiday around French bank holidays allows you to tailor your experience to your preferences. If you enjoy lively celebrations, plan to be in the heart of the action during local festivals. On the other hand, if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, avoid peak times to enjoy peaceful waterways and take in the beauty of France at your own pace. 

With Le Boat, you can effortlessly navigate France's stunning waterways, whether you're immersing yourself in the festivities or seeking tranquility. This guide is your key to planning an unforgettable holiday in France, ensuring that your itinerary is perfectly timed to let you experience the best of what France has to offer during its bank holidays.

Ready to plan your perfect French getaway? Discover the best of France with Le Boat

Book a boating vacation with Le Boat today, and let us help you create the perfect vacation experience. Whether you’re looking to join the lively local festivities or enjoy a peaceful retreat, Le Boat has the perfect itinerary waiting for you.