Exploring France: 26 Unmissable Experiences

Trips to France are always special, regardless of which part of the country you’re visiting. Whether you’re heading to Paris for a few days or planning a road trip along the country’s southern coast, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to landmarks and tourist attractions.

The best things to do in France range from partying in Saint Tropez to hiking in the footsteps of 18th-century customs officers for 2,000 kilometers. Moreover, there’s a myriad of activities to enjoy, including castles, art museums, volcanoes, and, of course, landmarks in Paris.

No matter where you choose to stay or which places you decide to visit, you’ll always have access to some of the best food and wines in the world. It’s the country that produced the Michelin Guide, one of the most relevant authorities in the restaurant and travel industry. From the stunning Mont St. Michel in Normandy to the beaches of Côte d’Azur, here are all the best things to do in France!

Best Things To Do In France

• Must See: The Louvre, Palace of Versailles, Bourges Cathedral, Château de Chambord
• Where To Stay: Alcôve Hôtel (Nice), Hôtel La Maison Champs Elysées (Paris), Hôtel Mont-Blanc (Chamonix)
• Fun Things To Do: Dune of Pilat, House and Gardens of Claude Monet, Skiing in Chamonix, Mont Saint Michel
• Day Trips: Bordeaux, French Riviera, Nimes
• Must Try Foods: Coq au Vin, Ratatouille, Crepes, Pain au Chocolat

1. Mont Saint Michel

Mont Saint Michel is a tiny island and commune in Normandy, famous for its Romanesque abbey at the center and Europe’s highest tides. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most notable landmarks in northern France, and it’s not to be missed by travelers in Normandy. Combining a visit to Mont St. Michel with a trip to Jersey Island and its stunning castle adds to the adventure.

Practical Information

Mont St. Michel is open from 9 AM until 6 PM. Tickets cost 11€.

2. Visit The Louvre

The Louvre has held the title of the most visited museum in the world for several years. Millions queue in front of the glass pyramid for a chance to see the Mona Lisa in person. However, many visitors don’t get a good view due to the large crowds. Even in the off-season, it can be challenging to get close to Da Vinci’s masterpiece. Nevertheless, there are countless other interesting artworks to explore at the museum, such as the Venus de Millo and The Wedding at Cana.

Insider Tip: Head to Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel and walk down the stairs to enter the Louvre without waiting in long lines.

Practical Information

The Louvre is open daily from 9 AM until 6 PM except for Tuesdays. A standard ticket is 17€.

3. Drink Champagne in Champagne

Champagne is renowned globally, and visiting the Champagne region in northeastern France is essential for real enthusiasts. This area is easily accessible for day trips from Paris. The Pressoria Champagne Museum provides an interactive experience about the history, production, and trends in champagne-making, complete with tastings to delight your senses.

Countless wineries offer tours and tastings, with Moët et Chandon being the most popular among visitors.

Practical Information

Many tours of the Champagne region are organized from various cities in France, primarily departing from Paris.

4. Tour The House and Gardens of Claude Monet

The garden of Monet’s house in Giverny inspired his iconic Water Lillies painting, and visiting this artist’s former home is a must for any art lover in France. Just an hour and a half outside Paris, Monet’s home is richly decorated with period furniture and adorned with his works.

The expansive garden is so vast that a map is provided for visitors to navigate through. Wandering through it could spark your own creativity, making it a delightful visit.

Practical Information

Monet’s House and Garden are open from 9:30 AM to 6 PM from late March until the 1st of November. Tickets are 13€.

5. See The Dune of Pilat

Located in the Arcachon Bay area of France, the Dune of Pilat is Europe’s tallest dune and a fascinating natural landmark. This impressive structure, ranging from 100 to 115 meters tall depending on the wind, typically takes 10-20 minutes to climb from the car park, offering splendid ocean views at the top.

Insider Tip: Climbing the dune is easier when you kick off your shoes and feel the sand between your toes!

Practical Information

The Dune of Pilat is free to visit and is accessible by car or public transport from Bordeaux.

6. Kayaking in the Verdon Gorge

The Verdon Gorge, often called the “Grand Canyon of France,” is one of the most visually stunning destinations in the country, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers numerous recreational activities, including kayaking, hiking, and climbing. Moreover, panoramic vistas can be enjoyed by driving to the top of the highest cliffs in the gorge.

Practical Information

Verdon Gorge is best accessed by car, though public transport is also available to reach the location.

7. Tour The Palace Of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles, an iconic symbol of French luxury and history, features splendid gilded apartments, a mesmerizing fountain show, and the famous Hall of Mirrors. Visitors often spend an entire day wandering through its vast 2,300 rooms, marveling at the opulent décor.

Practical Information

The Palace of Versailles is open from 9 AM until 5:30 PM. Tickets cost 19.5€. It’s advisable to purchase tickets online to ensure admission.

8. Go Skiing At Chamonix

Chamonix, located on France’s border with Switzerland and Italy, is one of the country’s premier skiing destinations, home to five ski resorts and renowned pistes. Situated at the foot of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps, visitors can access exhilarating skiing, hiking, and mountain biking activities here.

Practical Information

The closest airport to Chamonix is Geneva International Airport, about two hours away by train.

9. Stand At The Top Of The Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is not just a landmark; it’s a global icon! Climbing to the top offers breathtaking views of Paris. Although it can be busy at peak times, most visitors gather at Champ de Mars to enjoy the spectacular view.

Insider Tip: Bring a jacket; it’s usually windy at the top!

Practical Information

Tickets range from 11.3€ to 28.30€. The tower is open for visits from 9:30 AM until midnight.

10. Learn About Perfume History at Grasse

Grasse, located in the hills above Cannes, is recognized for its perfume industry. The International Perfume Museum showcases the history and art of perfume-making and offers fascinating insights, along with scent samples to enrich the experience.

Practical Information

Grasse is easily accessible by train from Cannes and other cities in the French Riviera. The Perfume Museum is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, with tickets priced at 6€.

11. Discover French Cuisine

French cuisine is influential across the globe, with Michelin stars highlighting dining excellence. Must-try dishes include French onion soup, Coq au Vin, Ratatouille, and Quiche Lorraine. Desserts like crepes and macarons are also essential to any visit.

Practical Information

The Michelin guide recommends various fine dining restaurants across the country, including Kei (Paris) and AM par Alexandre Mazzia (Marseilles).

12. Roman Ruins at Nimes

Nimes, located in the Occitanie region of southern France, boasts impressive Roman ruins, including the double-tiered Amphitheatre. A classic walking tour lets visitors appreciate this historic town’s beauty.

Practical Information

Nimes is around an hour and a half outside of Marseilles.

13. Tour Château de Chenonceau

Château de Chenonceau, spanning the River Cher, is a stunning 16th-century castle featuring magnificent gardens and a collection of Old Masters paintings, including works by renowned artists such as Rubens and Tintoretto.

Practical Information

Château de Chenonceau is open daily from 9:30 AM until 5:30 PM. Ticket prices are 15.5€.

14. Visit the Bourges Cathedral

Bourges Cathedral is a prominent example of Gothic architecture in France and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The stunning stained glass windows and opulent interiors make it a worthy visit.

Practical Information

The cathedral is open to visitors from 9:30 AM until 11:30 AM and 2 PM to 6 PM. Ticket prices vary from 6-12€.

15. Cruise the Canal du Midi

Canal du Midi, part of the Canal des Deux Mers, boasts beautiful scenery and historic towns. Visitors can explore it via cycling trails or by boat, engaging in river tourism to appreciate the picturesque nature.

Practical Information

Cycling trails along Canal du Midi are accessible for free. Summer is the peak season for visitors.

16. Hike to a Volcano Summit

The Auvergne region is home to over 80 dormant volcanoes, with Puy de Dôme being the tallest. Accessible by hiking trails, the summit offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes.

Practical Information

Puy de Dôme can be reached via trains and simple walking paths. The route up the volcano is suitable for all skill levels.

17. Lounge on the Beaches of Corsica

A boat trip from Nice or Marseilles will get you to Corsica, famed for its stunning beaches and clear waters. Whether seeking luxury resorts or secluded beaches, Corsica offers it all, accompanied by beautiful landscapes accessible by hiking trails.

Practical Information

Corsica is reachable through flights or boat services from various locations in France.

18. Road Trip Along Côte d’Azur

Renting a car is ideal for exploring the French Riviera, from Nice to Montpellier. Visit towns such as Cannes and Marseilles, enjoying the beautiful scenery, sandy beaches, and vibrant coastal life.

Practical Information

The French Riviera, though not legally defined, encompasses the entire Mediterranean coastline of France.

19. Uncover Secret Rooms in Mont Orgueil Castle

Mont Orgueil Castle is located on Jersey, accessible via ferry from Granville and Saint-Malo. It features breathtaking sea views and fascinating secret rooms that leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Practical Information

Mont Orgueil Castle is open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM. Tickets are £16.90.

20. Winter Wonderland at Alsace

Alsace, located on the border with Switzerland and Germany, is famous for its stunning Christmas markets. The region is home to charming architecture and offers unique experiences that reflect its rich cultural heritage.

Practical Information

Strasbourg, the capital of Alsace, can be conveniently reached by train from the Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg Airport.

21. Thermal Baths at Vichy

Vichy is renowned for its therapeutic thermal baths, perfect for relaxation. The scenic old town features eclectic architecture and is ideal for peaceful strolls along the riverfront.

Practical Information

The closest international airport to Vichy is Lyon. Travel by train or bus will take about three hours from Lyon to Vichy.

22. Wine Tasting at Bordeaux

The Bordeaux region is world-famous for its exceptional wines. Explore various wineries and learn the intricacies of wine production. The Cité du Vin highlights the rich heritage of winemaking in Bordeaux.

Practical Information

Cité du Vin Museum is open from 10 AM to 6 PM (7 PM on weekends). Tickets cost 22€ and include wine tastings.

23. Hike the GR34

The GR34 hiking trail stretches over 2,000 kilometers from Mont Saint Michel to Saint-Nazaire, featuring breathtaking coastal views. For novice hikers, exploring a section of the trail is a great option without committing to a lengthy trek.

Practical Information

The GR34 takes approximately 85 days to complete. Short segments are perfect for day hikes.

24. Party At Saint Tropez

Saint Tropez is celebrated for its nightlife. Offering an assortment of bars and clubs, it’s the quintessential party town on the French Riviera, where beach clubs provide a continuous festive atmosphere.

Practical Information

Saint Tropez is situated on the Côte d’Azur, with Nice being the nearest airport.

25. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame is an enduring symbol of France, located on a small island in the River Seine. Known for its stunning Gothic architecture and stained glass windows, it remains a must-see for visitors in Paris, even during its restoration after the 2019 fire.

Practical Information

Currently closed to the public, the entrance fee before the fire was 8€.

26. Château de Chambord

Château de Chambord is a key example of French Renaissance architecture, originally constructed as a hunting lodge. Its fascinating history and stunning design make it one of the must-visit destinations in the Loire Valley.

Practical Information

Château de Chambord is open daily from 9 AM until 5 PM. Standard tickets cost 14.50€.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is France A Cheap Place To Visit?

France is not typically considered cheap, but budget travelers can find affordable options outside of Paris.

What Is France Famous For?

France is renowned for landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Mont Saint Michel, and the Palace of Versailles.

What Are The Three Most Visited Places In France?

The most visited destinations are Disneyland Paris, the Louvre Museum, and the Palace of Versailles.

Why Is France A Fun Place To Visit?

France offers incredible diversity, with something for every type of traveler, from vast beaches to majestic castles.

Tips And Information For Visiting France

Best Time To Visit

Every season offers a unique experience in France. Summer is ideal for hiking and beach outings, while winter is best for skiing.

Getting There

Charles de Gaulle International Airport is the main gateway to France, with various connections to major cities.

Getting Around

Driving is the best way to explore, but high-speed trains offer fast travel options across the country. Buses serve areas lacking train connections.

Time Needed

Your time in France can vary from a week to a month, depending on your interests. A week is sufficient for the highlights of Paris, while longer trips are great for regional tours.

Where To Stay In France

Paris is an excellent base for exploring northern, central, and eastern France. Alternatively, any town along the Côte d’Azur is great for seaside vacations.

Chamonix is ideal in winter for skiing enthusiasts. Here are some recommended hotels in France:

• Alcôve Hôtel (Nice) – Perfect for Côte d’Azur trips.
• Hôtel La Maison Champs Elysées (Paris) – Luxurious and centrally located.
• Hôtel Mont-Blanc (Chamonix) – Offers easy access to ski resorts.

Select your base according to nearby attractions to make the most of your traveling experience.