How to enjoy 28 extra days of vacation in 2025 with incredible tips!
Have you always dreamed of having more free time, but you don't know how to achieve it? Don't worry! With these incredible tips, you can enjoy 28 extra days of holiday in 2025. Imagine all the possibilities that will open up to you!
Our exclusive guide reveals the secrets to maximizing your holiday days and freeing yourself from the routine. Practical advice will allow you to optimize your schedule, organize family getaways and plan well-deserved moments of relaxation.
Whether you are an employee, an entrepreneur or a student, these tips adapt to all schedules and will help you find a balance between your professional and personal life. You will forget about stress and fatigue to dedicate yourself to activities that you are passionate about and inspire you.
Don't miss this opportunity to gain more time for yourself and your loved ones. Discover now how to enjoy 28 extra days of holiday in 2025 with these incredible tips. Your life will only be better!
Understanding the Leave System in France
The leave system in France is structured to provide workers with a work-life balance. In general, every employee is entitled to a minimum of five weeks of paid leave per year, which amounts to 25 working days. However, there are also types of leave, such as public holidays, family leave, and sick leave. Understanding these different categories is essential to maximizing your free time.
Public holidays in France are specific dates on which most workers are given a day off. Some of the most common include May 1, Bastille Day, and Christmas. However, these days can sometimes fall on a weekend, which reduces the number of extra days off you could get. Additionally, many employers offer RTT (Reduction of Working Time) days, which allow employees to take extra time off based on their working hours.
It is crucial to familiarize yourself with your employment contract and the collective agreement that applies to your company, as these documents may include special provisions regarding your holiday days. By taking the time to understand the holiday system, you will be able to plan your holidays strategically and make the most of your time off.
Popular destinations for school holidays
When it comes to choosing a destination for school holidays, the options are vast and varied. Among the most popular destinations are the mountains, which attract many families in winter for skiing and in summer for hiking. The Alps, the Pyrenees and the Massif Central are ideal places to enjoy outdoor activities while admiring breathtaking landscapes.
The beaches of the Mediterranean are also a choice destination, especially during the summer holidays. Regions such as the Côte d'Azur, Corsica and Languedoc-Roussillon offer fine sandy beaches, varied water activities and a sunny climate. These places are perfect for relaxing with the family, enjoying the sun and indulging in water-based leisure activities.
Finally, historic and cultural cities are also very attractive for school holidays. Destinations such as Paris, Lyon or Bordeaux allow you to discover French heritage through museums, monuments and cultural events. These visits can be educationally enriching and provide children with the opportunity to learn while having fun.
Family Activities During School Holidays
School holidays are a great time to plan family activities. Whether at home or outdoors, there are plenty of options to keep young and old entertained. For example, trips to the park, picnics, or bike rides allow you to enjoy nature while spending time together. These activities strengthen family bonds and promote a relaxed atmosphere.
The holidays can also be an opportunity to carry out creative projects. Whether it's crafts, art activities, or culinary experiences, these creative moments can be both fun and educational. Participating in a painting workshop together, cooking a special meal, or creating decorations for the house are all activities that stimulate the imagination and family collaboration.
Finally, board games and movie nights can become family traditions during school holidays. These moments provide an opportunity to come together around laughter and discussions, thus strengthening family bonds. Organizing themed parties or board game tournaments can add a touch of excitement and interaction.
Tip 1: Use Public Holidays to Your Advantage
One of the most effective tips to maximize your time off is to use public holidays to your advantage. In 2025, it is important to note the public holiday calendar to optimize your time off. For example, if a public holiday falls on a Friday or Monday, you can easily create a long weekend by taking a day off nearby. This allows you to extend your time off without using up too many days off.
In addition, some months may contain multiple public holidays, and by combining them with your days off, you could get a series of consecutive days off. It is a good idea to analyse the months of the year and plan your time off around these holidays to maximize your free time. For example, taking a day off the day after a public holiday can give you a nice four-day break.
Finally, it is also worth checking if your company offers additional public holidays or specific days off for special occasions. This could give you the opportunity to accumulate even more holiday days. By incorporating these holidays into your planning, you can turn ordinary moments into extended getaways.
Tip 2: Plan your holiday in advance to maximize your days off
Planning is a key element to making the most of your holiday time. By planning your holiday in advance, you can not only choose ideal times to rest, but also benefit from reduced rates for your travel and accommodation. Many studies show that people who plan their holiday time in advance feel less stress and enjoy their free time more.
Start by creating a calendar of your year and note all public holidays, RTT and school holiday periods. This will allow you to visualize the opportunities to take extended holidays. Then, determine your priorities: do you want to go on a family holiday, go on getaways with friends, or simply spend time at home to rest? Having a clear idea of ​​your goals will help you better organize your holiday time.
Finally, don't forget to communicate with your employer and colleagues about your holiday plans. This will help you avoid scheduling conflicts and ensure that your absence is managed smoothly. Proper planning can truly transform your days off into a time of total relaxation, allowing you to return to work refreshed and revitalized.
Tip 3 : Take advantage of RTT and compensatory rest days
RTT, or Reduction of Working Time, is a great way to increase your holiday days without having to use your paid holiday days. In France, employees who work beyond the legal working hours can accumulate RTT. These days can be used to extend your holiday or to take regular breaks throughout the year. To benefit from them, it is crucial to know your rights and find out how many RTT days you are entitled to.
Compensatory rest days are also an opportunity not to be overlooked. If you have worked overtime, you can request compensatory rest days. These days allow you to recover the additional hours you have worked, giving you more flexibility in your schedule. It is advisable to keep track of your hours worked and check your company's policies regarding overtime and compensation.
By using both RTT and compensatory rest days, you can easily add several days to your holiday calendar. This not only allows you to benefit from some well-deserved rest, but also to better manage your work-life balance. By being proactive and planning these days, you will be closer to the 28 additional days of holiday you desire.
Tip 4 : Use Overtime to Bank Holiday Days
Another effective strategy for getting extra time off is to take advantage of overtime. Many companies offer the option to work overtime, and depending on your employer’s policy, you may be able to convert these hours into holiday days. To do this, it’s important to learn how to convert overtime into days off.
By accumulating overtime on a regular basis, you can quickly increase your holiday days. For example, if your company allows you to take a day off for every overtime you work, you can plan your schedule accordingly. This can also motivate you to work harder, knowing that each additional hour brings you closer to your holiday goals.
However, it’s important to be careful not to burn out by accumulating too much overtime. While this may seem like a short-term benefit, it can also lead to stress and fatigue. Make sure you find a balance between work and rest time, so that those extra hours actually contribute to your overall well-being.
Tip 5 : Maximise your days off by combining them with weekends
A smart way to maximise your days off is to combine them with your weekends. By planning your days off wisely around weekends, you can create extended periods of rest without having to use up too many days. For example, by taking a day off on Friday, you can enjoy a three-day-long weekend, which is perfect for a short trip or just relaxing at home.
You can also take advantage of long weekends, which are periods when a public holiday falls just before or after a weekend. By taking a day off close to these public holidays, you can extend your holiday and make it a special time. It takes some planning, but the rewards are worth it.
Combining your days off with weekends can help reduce the stress of travelling. A long weekend often allows you to leave without rushing, avoid rush hour and enjoy a more balanced rest time. It's a simple but effective strategy that can earn you several extra days off in 2025.
Tip 6 : Negotiate extra holiday days with your employer
Negotiating extra holiday days with your employer can seem daunting, but it’s an approach that can really pay off. Many employers are open to the discussion, especially if you demonstrate that it won’t impact your productivity or that of the team. Before you start this conversation, it’s important to prepare your arguments and know what your expectations are.
Start by assessing your workload and performance within the company. If you have a history of consistently exceeding your targets or contributing to important projects, this can strengthen your position during the negotiation. Present valid reasons for why you are requesting extra holiday days, whether it’s for personal needs, family holidays, or simply to improve your well-being.
It’s also a good idea to suggest solutions that could compensate for your absence, such as training a colleague or working on projects in advance. By showing your employer that you are willing to collaborate and ensure continuity of work, you increase your chances of getting the holiday days you want. A successful negotiation can earn you valuable holiday days for 2025.
Tip 7 : Take time off during off-peak periods
Taking time off during off-peak periods is an often underestimated tip, but it can offer you many benefits. Off-peak periods, such as January or September, are typically less busy for many companies. By choosing these times to take your time off, you can not only avoid the stress of peak periods, but also benefit from better service availability, reduced travel rates, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Additionally, planning your time off during off-peak periods can also benefit your mental well-being. Less pressure at work and a calmer environment can help you recharge more effectively. This will make you better prepared to return to work after your holiday, feeling refreshed and revitalized.
Finally, it is important to communicate with your team about your time off during these periods. By giving advance notice, you can ensure that your absence does not disrupt the running of the business. It also shows your professionalism and commitment to your work, which can strengthen your relationship with your colleagues and employer.
How to proceed month by month in 2025
To maximize your holiday days in 2025, here is how to proceed according to the opportunities for bridges and long weekends.
You will have to think about taking into account the different school holiday periods depending on your zone A, B or C.
In January 2025
New Year: January 1st falls on a Wednesday. Taking the two preceding days (Monday and Tuesday) or the two following days (Thursday and Friday) allows you to obtain a long 5-day weekend, ideal for starting the year gently.
In March–April 2025
Easter Monday: Easter Monday, which falls on April 21, naturally offers a three-day weekend without additional leave. An excellent opportunity for a first long weekend in spring!
In May 2025
May is a particularly favourable month for long weekends:
Labour Day (May 1): This public holiday falls on a Thursday. By taking Friday, May 2, you will benefit from four consecutive days of rest.
Victory Day (May 8): Also on a Thursday this year. Taking Friday, May 9 allows for another four-day extended weekend.
Ascension Day (May 29): This religious holiday also falls on a Thursday. By taking Friday, May 30, you get another four-day weekend.
In June 2025
Whit Monday (June 9): This public holiday allows for an extended weekend without requiring additional leave. A good opportunity to enjoy a break at the start of summer!
In July 2025
National Day (July 14): July 14 falls on a Monday this year. No need to take time off to enjoy a three-day-long weekend, perfect for a summer holiday.
In August 2025
Assumption (August 15): August 15 falls on a Friday. As a result, you automatically benefit from a three-day weekend, ideal for a break in the heart of summer.
In November 2025
All Saints' Day (November 1): Unfortunately, All Saints' Day falls on a Saturday this year, which does not allow for a bridge.
Armistice (November 11): November 11 falls on a Tuesday. By taking Monday, November 10, you can enjoy a four-day-long weekend before winter.
In December 2025
Christmas (December 25): Christmas falls on a Thursday in 2025. By taking Friday, December 26, you enjoy a long weekend to extend the end-of-year celebrations with four consecutive days of rest.
Conclusion: Make the most of your 28 extra holiday days in 2025 with these incredible tips
In summary, there are many strategies to maximize your holiday days in 2025 and reach that extra 28 days goal. Whether it’s using public holidays to your advantage, planning your time off in advance, or taking advantage of RTT and overtime, each tip will bring you closer to a more balanced and rewarding life.
Remember, the key is good planning and open communication with your employer and colleagues. By being proactive and taking the time to think about your needs, you can turn your working year into a series of well-deserved moments of rest and relaxation.
So, don’t wait any longer! Put these incredible tips into practice and get ready to take full advantage of your 28 extra days of holiday in 2025. Whether you choose to travel, relax at home, or pursue long-sheltered passions, every day counts to improve your quality of life.
However, special precautions must be taken into account, such as your employment contract or collective agreement in particular. (see sources)
