Top 5 French Islands to Discover

France is home to several hundred islands spread across the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. From the coasts of mainland France to its overseas territories, these regions, with their varied landscapes and undeniable charm, stand out as prime destinations for your next vacation.

Discover our selection of the most beautiful French islands near the mainland as well as the famous overseas French islands. We also have tips for organizing your trip and making the most of your stay.

What are all the French islands?

From the coasts of Normandy to the South Pacific, French islands are natural treasures waiting to be discovered solo, as a couple, or with family!

The French islands of the mainland coasts

Mainland France (the European territory of France) is bordered by four maritime fronts: the Atlantic Ocean to the west, the English Channel to the northwest, a small part of the North Sea to the north, and the Mediterranean Sea to the southeast. And there’s no shortage of islands along these thousands of kilometers of coastline.

•  Among these coastal gems, some French islands stand out for their impressive size and natural charm. Curious about which ones are the most beautiful? Here’s our selection: Corsica: The “Isle of Beauty” needs no introduction. Nestled in the Mediterranean Sea, with its paradisiacal beaches, countless natural parks, and centuries-old culture, Corsica has it all.
• Belle-Île-en-Mer: Located south of Morbihan, just a few kilometers from Quiberon, Belle-Île is the largest of the Breton islands. Its idyllic setting, with preserved natural landscapes and picturesque villages, makes it an ideal destination for ecotourism enthusiasts.
• Île de Porquerolles: Just a short boat ride from the port of Hyères in the Var region, Porquerolles is a magical place to experience nature. Activities include hiking, bike rentals, and water sports, along with cultural and culinary must-sees.
• Groix: Northwest of Belle-Île, Groix has no reason to envy its neighbor. Nicknamed “The Garnet Island,” this mineralogical treasure is home to dozens of authentic small villages and a breathtaking variety of coastal landscapes.
• Île-de-Bréhat: Off the coast of Brittany, near Saint-Brieuc, the Bréhat archipelago is accessible by boat and best explored on foot or by bike—perfect for a relaxing trip away from the urban hustle!

Also Read: Tips for Traveling to St. Lucia: From Resorts to Rainforest

The overseas French islands

Beyond the European continent, France also has numerous territories overseas. With the exception of French Guiana, these regions consist exclusively of islands located across the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans.

Depending on their status, some are Overseas Departments and Regions (DROM)—including Guadeloupe, Martinique, Réunion, and Mayotte—while others are “Overseas Collectivities”:

• French Polynesia: Over 100 islands spread across 5 archipelagos in the South Pacific.
• New Caledonia: A group of islands and archipelagos between the Coral Sea and the Pacific Ocean.
• Saint-Pierre and Miquelon: An archipelago south of Newfoundland, Canada, in the Atlantic Ocean.
• Saint-Barthélemy: A Caribbean island.
• Saint-Martin: Another Caribbean island.
• Wallis and Futuna: A territory consisting of 3 main islands in the Pacific Ocean, Oceania.
• The French Southern and Antarctic Lands: Uninhabited islands in the southern Indian Ocean.

Organizing your trip to the French islands

Visiting the French islands is pretty straightforward and accessible for American travelers:

• Travel Documents: A valid U.S. passport is required for entry into France and its overseas territories. If you have a layover in another country on your way to an overseas island, ensure you meet that country’s transit requirements, including visas if necessary.
• Health Insurance: While medical care is excellent, U.S. health insurance plans often don’t provide international coverage. It’s highly recommended to purchase travel protection that includes Medical and Dental coverage and Emergency Assistance and Transportation coverage in case of emergencies. A great place to start your search is right here at Generali Global Assistance with our view Plans page you can determine which Plan is the best fit for your vacation.

Generali Global Assistance offers a range of flexible plans for travelers exploring France, its mainland islands, or just about anywhere else on the map.

Get a fast and free travel protection quote.

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