What’s Your Travel Style: Overview or In-Depth?

When planning a trip to France, one of the most important questions to ask yourself is:
What’s your travel style?

Do you dream of hopping from city to city, tasting a little of everything France has to offer? Or would you rather unpack once, settle into a charming village, and dive deep into local life?

Both approaches have their magic—and both can be tailored to fit your time, interests, and energy. At French Detours, I help clients figure out their ideal travel style and craft a trip that feels just right.

Let’s take a closer look at the two most popular types: the Fast-Paced Tour (overview style) and Slow Travel (in-depth stay). Here’s how they compare, along with some pros and cons to help you decide which fits your personality best.

The Overview Trip

“A taste of many regions to find your favorite flavor.”

This type of trip is perfect for first-time visitors or anyone feeling the irresistible pull of all the beautiful places in France. Think: Paris → Lyon → Provence → the Riviera—all in one go. You’ll hit major highlights, soak in a variety of scenery, and discover which cities or regions speak to your soul.

✅ Pros:

• You see many iconic sites in one trip
• Great for first-timers who want to “sample” before committing to a deeper dive
• Ideal if you love movement, energy, and variety
• You may discover a surprise favorite you’d never expect!

❌ Cons:

• It can feel a bit fast-paced or tiring, especially with frequent check-ins/check-outs
• Less time to relax or go off the beaten path
• Harder to truly connect with the rhythm of any one place

Perfect for: Curious explorers, bucket-list checkers, honeymooners wanting a bit of everything, or return travelers looking to add new stops.

The In-Depth Stay

“Live like a local, fall in love with the details.”

This type of travel is all about slowing down. Choose one region—maybe a hilltop village in Provence, a vineyard-lined corner of Burgundy, or a sun-dappled town in the Luberon—and settle in. You unpack once, and then go deep: visit markets, chat with locals, hike trails, sip wine at family-run estates, and enjoy long, lingering dinners.

✅ Pros:

• Immersive experience—you truly feel connected to the place
• Slower pace = less stress and more presence
• Easier to include unique experiences (artisans, cooking classes, hidden gems)
• Better value in accommodations (especially for rentals or boutique stays)

❌ Cons:

• You won’t see as many regions or “famous” cities in one trip
• Some may feel FOMO or worry they’re missing out on other areas
• Takes a bit more trust—you’re investing time in one spot

Perfect for: Francophiles, food & wine lovers, seasoned travelers, romantics, or anyone needing a break from a fast-paced life.

My Travel Style?

I’ve done both—and loved both—for different reasons. The overview trip we took years ago helped me fall in love with certain regions I never would have considered otherwise. But my most cherished memories often come from the in-depth stays—sipping wine with a winemaker, chatting with the baker who remembers your morning order, or discovering a tucked-away lavender field no one else seems to know about.

If you’re not sure which is best for you, that’s where I come in. My custom travel planning services are designed to help you match your time, style, and dreams with the perfect kind of experience—whether it’s a whirlwind of wonder or a cozy corner of France you’ll never want to leave.

Let’s Plan Your Perfect Detour

No matter which type of travel calls to you, I’m here to make it seamless and unforgettable. Let’s start with a conversation and see where the road (or detour!) takes you. Start your Consultation Now.