where to visit from france

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Best places to visit in france.

France is home to some of the most lively cities, bucolic villages and renowned wine regions on the globe. U.S. News considered factors like variety of attractions, lodging, weather and culinary scenes to create this ranking of the best places to visit in France. Whether you're seeking an action-packed sightseeing adventure or a relaxing wine retreat, you'll find a fun French vacation here. To influence next year's ranking, vote below for your favorite destinations in France.

Mont Saint-Michel

Montpellier, french alps, chamonix-mont-blanc, aix-en-provence, loire valley.

As the world's best place to visit , it's no surprise that the electrifying City of Light tops this list. France's capital city is a year-round tourist destination with iconic attractions like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower and incredible architecture (think: the dazzling Basilique du Sacré-Coeur). Not to mention, Paris offers unparalleled dining and shopping scenes and more museums than you could hope to visit in one trip. Keep in mind, Paris is often flooded with tourists and room rates can be pricey. If you're looking for a deal, travel in winter or early spring.

The capital of the Alsace region offers the perfect mix of French and German culture thanks to its location on the France-Germany border. While here, travelers should see Strasbourg's Gothic-style cathedral and stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Petite France quarter with its half-timbered houses and postcard-worthy waterways. Plus, those with an interest in politics can tour several important European institutions during their visit, including the European Parliament and the Council of Europe. For an extra dose of charm, arrive in December to see one of Europe's oldest Christmas markets.

Rising above the sea like a castle in a fairy tale, Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy is one of France's most-visited sights. Legend says the archangel Michael, the island's namesake, repeatedly appeared to Bishop Aubert of Avranches in dreams, telling him to build a church on top of the island in A.D. 708. Since its completion, it has become an important pilgrimage site for Christians and European intellectuals. Visitors can tour the picturesque abbey and admire its incredible medieval architecture or wander its surrounding streets, which are lined with tiny shops and quaint cafes.

Dubbed La Ville Rose due to the prominence of distinctive clay bricks in its architecture, Toulouse is a feast for the eyes. Throughout this city, which is located in the South of France, you'll find marvels like the neoclassical Le Capitole on the main square, the stately Basilica of Saint-Sernin (an 11th-century UNESCO site) and the Hôtel d’Assézat, which houses a noteworthy art gallery. What's more, several canals with shady footpaths pass through the city, including the idyllic Canal du Midi. For some of the best views of Toulouse, take a cruise on the River Garonne, or just sunbathe on its banks.

Sunny Montpellier glows with a combination of old world charm and a trendy university lifestyle. This city in the south of France evokes Parisian appeal with Haussmann architecture and stylish promenades. And like Paris, adornment is everywhere in Montpellier, from fashionable boutiques to street art to France's oldest botanical garden. Plus, since Montpellier is located 7 miles from the coast of the Mediterranean, a beach break is close at hand. Once the sun sets, take part in the city's youthful nightlife scene, which includes everything from music halls to dance clubs.

It's easy to see why Colmar, located in the heart of Alsace's wine region, is considered one of France's most beautiful cities. Colorful houses that look as if they belong in a fairy tale line the Little Venice district, where you can take a boat tour through Colmar's canals or reach boutiques and eateries on foot. The setting is picturesque regardless of when you vacation here, but for even more charm, visit Colmar at night when lights illuminate the city during annual events like the Colmar International Festival, Alsace's wine fair and Colmar's Christmas market.

To see some of France's most spectacular art and architecture, head to Avignon. This city in southeastern France is full of stunning structures, including the 14th-century Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in the world, and the arched bridge, Pont d'Avignon. A number of can't-miss museums are spread throughout Avignon as well, such as the Musée Angladon, which houses works by highly regarded artists like Edgar Degas, Pablo Picasso and Vincent Van Gogh. Visit in July to attend the Festival d'Avignon, one of the world's largest performing arts festivals.

If your ideal French vacation involves a little more nature and a little less city, head to the French Alps . Here, you'll find some of the best ski slopes in Europe, as well as beautiful scenery that rivals any work of art or architecture. In summer, the typically snow-covered mountains thaw just enough to create perfect conditions for hiking and biking. Enchanting villages sit at the base of the range, offering several places to unwind when you've had enough fun on the slopes or trails.

Despite its war-filled past, this region in northern France is also a place of great beauty and culture. Étretat's white cliffs are a great place to take in the area's natural scenery. Then, visit the region's capital city, Rouen, to admire works of art at the Musée des Beaux-Arts and stroll past the quaint half-timbered houses. Be sure to sample some of the city's culinary specialties to see why it is now a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Or, see some of the remnants of Normandy's heavy history at the D-Day Landing Beaches and The Bayeux Tapestry.

Glamorous Nice occupies a picturesque spot along the French Riviera. Beach bums and culture hounds alike will enjoy the city's pebbly shores, engaging museums, boutique shops and Baroque-style palaces. Be sure to stroll along the coastline's Promenade des Anglais and pick up some fresh flowers and produce at the vibrant Cours Saleya market, located in old town. You'll likely spend a pretty penny on lodging and beach access, but experiencing Nice is worth it. To save some coin, travel between mid-March and April or from September to October, the area's shoulder seasons.

Often called "France's Isle of Beauty," Corsica features diverse landscapes and a unique culture that make it seem like a miniature continent. The Mediterranean island's clear blue water and white sand beaches are ideal for sunbathing, snorkeling and kayaking, while its mountainous terrain and dense forests provide ample opportunities to hike trails like the highly regarded (albeit challenging) GR20. Those looking to take in some history can visit the Maison Bonaparte museum to see Napoleon's birthplace. What's more, Corsica offers a one-of-a-kind food scene that showcases various local delicacies, such as lonzu (dry-cured ham) and brocciu (cheese).

While it may not be as well known as big-name cities like Paris, Lyon competes with the best of them. Despite being the third-largest city in France, Lyon is much calmer and less touristy than other similarly sized destinations. The streets are filled with public art, including the city's famous trompe l'oeil murals, and there are museums that focus on everything from movies to history. Plus, it's surrounded by hundreds of wineries and home to 4,000-plus restaurants, several of which boast Michelin stars, making it especially appealing to oenophiles and foodies.

If you love to ski, chances are you'll enjoy shredding powder at Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Europe. In the bustling Chamonix (the main place to stay if you want to ski at Mont Blanc), you'll have easy access to the longest off-piste run in the world (Vallée Blanche) and rugged, challenging slopes. But this destination, which hosted the 1924 Winter Olympics, offers more than just top-notch skiing. Chamonix is also a great place to go hiking, mountain biking and whitewater rafting. For some family-friendly fun, visit the town's adventure park to zip down its Alpine coaster and various slides.

Quaint, charming Aix-en-Provence is a university city known for its tree-lined boulevards, cute cafes and lively markets. Life moves at a more leisurely pace here than in other French cities, meaning it's the perfect place for travelers to get lost in the scenic streets. Make sure to add Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur and Le Grand Marché – two of the city's top attractions – to your itinerary. You can also see where artist Paul Cézanne (an Aix-en-Provence native) painted some of his masterpieces at Atelier de Cezanne, or venture outside of the city to see the Provencal scenes that inspired him.

Vincent Van Gogh fans may recognize the streetscapes of Arles: This small city in Provence inspired some of the artist's best-known works with its bright colors and rustic feel. Art aficionados can walk in Van Gogh's footsteps and explore his favorite haunts on a walking tour through this romantic city or visit the Fondation Vincent Van Gogh Arles. Beyond this noteworthy connection, Arles is renowned for its Roman ruins, including a two-tiered amphitheater, the Alyscamps necropolis and the Constantine Baths. And as the gateway to the Camargue region, Arles is a great base for visitors looking to explore this marshy, flamingo-filled area.

Another popular wine region, Burgundy is home to rolling hills, superior cuisine and an array of vineyards. Those visiting Burgundy must spend time exploring the medieval villages, historical abbeys and museums that call this area home. Dijon, the region's history-rich capital, makes a great home base for touring the area. And, of course, you can't leave without trying the region's wine, which mainly uses the pinot noir and chardonnay grapes, and dining on some of its rich cuisine.

Northwestern France's Brittany region stands out from the rest of the country in more ways than one. Locals are proud and protective of their Celtic heritage, including their unique language, traditions and festivals. As a result, visitors will find many well-preserved historical sites throughout the area, including prehistoric megaliths and medieval towns like Saint-Malo, a popular port town with a 12th-century citadel. Brittany also features breathtaking coastlines with fantastic beaches that are known for their phenomenal waves for surfing, dive spots and dolphin-spotting opportunities. 

As the capital of France's Champagne region, Reims is a must-visit destination for both history buffs and those who love bubbly. The city offers many Champagne cellars where visitors can learn about how the popular wine is produced before tasting it. Additionally, Reims features breathtaking Gothic architecture at attractions like the Cathedral of Notre-Dame at Reims, where 25 French monarchs were crowned between 1223 and 1825, and the adjacent Palace of Tau, the former residence of France's archbishops. No visit would be complete without perusing the exhibits in one of Reims' museums, which cover a range of topics from war history to art and automobiles.

The gateway to the Loire Valley, Tours is perfectly situated for touring the region's wineries. But with Tours' historical elements and prime location along the Loire River, you may just want to stay in town. Place Plumereau, a medieval marketplace that remains one of the city's oldest squares, exudes irresistible charm with half-timbered houses, while churches like the Saint-Gatien Cathedral stun with their stately façades. Visitors will also have their pick of green spaces, from parks like Prébendes d’Oé Garden to riverside guinguettes (open-air cafes) at Tours sur Loire. What's more, several of the region's famed châteaux (including the Château de Villandry) sit just outside the city.

For a romantic escape, visit the Loire Valley in central France. Situated along the Loire River, the area is peppered with châteaux, bed-and-breakfast accommodations, farms and wineries renowned for their sauvignon blanc. The region itself is even a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its beauty and historical villages. Plan to spend some time in a few of the valley's laid-back cities and towns, such as Orléans and Saumur, and you can't miss the emblematic Château de Chambord.

This wine-producing hub woos travelers with its riverbank location and surrounding countryside. With nearly 300,000 acres of vineyards, Bordeaux offers ample choices for those looking to sip some of the best (typically bold red) wines in the world. In the city center, marvel at the Gothic-style Basilique Saint Michel, walk across the Pont de Pierre (a beautiful stone bridge), snap a photo of the iconic Place de la Bourse and enjoy the Jardin Public's pathways and flora.

Located on the French Riviera just 8 miles from Nice, the tiny hilltop village of Èze makes for an excellent daytrip. The best way to spend your time in this medieval town is meandering through its cobbled streets that look as though they've been pulled from a postcard. In doing so, you'll find picturesque views of the coast, as well as luxury hotels and shops from another era. Top sights include the Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption and Jardin Exotique d'Èze, as well as the walking path of Nietzsche, who was inspired to write here. Before leaving town, stop by the Fragonard Parfumeur factory for a fragrant tour.

Located 35 miles northeast of Montpellier, Nîmes delights history buffs with some of the world's best-preserved Roman treasures like its emblematic arena and La Maison Carrée, a temple dating back to 10 B.C. Museums throughout Nîmes also cover its past. But lest you get the wrong impression, Nîmes is anything but stuffy. The city embraces the joie de vivre of the South of France with countless festivals, from structured events like the concert lineups of the Festival de Nîmes to lively Ferias de Nîmes – multi-day celebrations that occur twice a year at Pentecost and in September, and center around bullfighting, dancing and music.

France's oldest and second-largest city has become an exciting, up-and-coming tourist destination. Marseille has a number of sights to see, including the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde and Château d'If, the ominous prison made famous by Alexandre Dumas' "The Count of Monte Cristo." When the weather is nice, the rocky cliffs and secluded beaches of the Calanques are excellent for swimming, boating and hiking. No trip to Marseille would be complete without a stop by the Mucem, a museum dedicated to Mediterranean civilization. Plus, its rooftop terrace makes the perfect vantage point to admire the city.

Famous for its annual film festival in May, Cannes is just as impressive (and much less congested) other times of the year. Cannes is another French Riviera hot spot that welcomes travelers looking for a little relaxation (think: sun-soaked beaches and meandering walks through the steep streets of Le Suquet, one of the city's oldest neighborhoods). Visitors can sightsee as they stroll along La Croisette, a 2-mile-long promenade, or sit down for an exquisite meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Feeling lucky? Stop by one of Cannes' casinos.

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20 Beautiful Places to Visit in France — From Normandy to the French Riviera

The best places to visit in France range from iconic landmarks to charming villages.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

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Many things entice travelers to visit France — food, wine, fashion, architecture, and natural beauty among them. There’s something wonderful to eat, drink, see, and do in every corner of this Western European nation. It’s hard not to fall in love with Paris . The glamorous beaches along the Côte d'Azur are legendary. Provence also packs a punch with fragrant lavender fields, the hilltop villages of the Luberon , and vineyards. Vines and grand chateaux mix in the Loire Valley . Truth be told, the number of dazzling places within the country is actually quite dizzying, but we’re more than happy to help point you in some of the most photogenic directions. Scroll on for 20 of the best places to visit in France.

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Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful small towns in the world , Gordes draws heaps of tourists who descend upon this idyllic Luberon village in the hopes of capturing the perfect shot of its cobbled lanes, time-worn churches, and 12th-century Sénanque Abbey framed by lavender fields.

Palace of Versailles

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Whether you’re a film buff, love history, or simply want to tick one of France’s most famous landmarks off your sightseeing list, the grandeur of Versailles never fails to impress. The palace is home to the Hall of Mirrors, the Royal Chapel, and many other opulent rooms. Outside are the magnificent gardens, fountains, and sprawling park.

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Camargue doesn’t look or feel like anywhere else in southern France. This wild region between the Mediterranean Sea and the two branches of the Rhône River delta brims with the untamed natural beauty of salt marshes, reed beds, free-roaming white horses, and hundreds of bird species — most notably, pink flamingos.

Eiffel Tower

Built for the 1889 World's Fair, the Eiffel Tower is an enduring symbol of Paris. It’s one thing to see the famous landmark in films, television shows, and photographs, but it’s quite another to get a close-up look at this incredible feat of ingenuity in real life. The twinkly lights at night only add to the romance of it all.

Île Sainte-Marguerite

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Located about half a mile offshore from tourist-laden Cannes, Île Sainte-Marguerite reflects a more low-key side of the French Riviera with lovely scenery at every turn. The largest of the Lérins Islands has beautiful rocky beaches, turquoise waters, and a eucalyptus forest, plus an underwater sculpture museum.

Châteaux of the Loire Valley

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Part of the historical and architectural fabric of the country, the châteaux of the Loire Valley are an enduring reminder of Renaissance resplendence. Impressive from both a design and landscaping perspective, these regal landmarks range from palaces with sprawling gardens (like Château de Chambord) to smaller castles.

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

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Tucked on the eastern side of a forested peninsula, the exclusive commune of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat has long captivated artists such as Henri Matisse, writers, and well-heeled holiday-goers with its spellbinding beauty. Expect exquisite villas hidden by lush vegetation, breathtaking beaches with clear waters for snorkeling, hiking trails, and a yacht-filled harbor.

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Situated just south of Colmar in the Alsace region of France, Eguisheim looks like a medieval village you’d see on the cover of a storybook with a concentric plan of narrow streets, half-timbered houses, bubbling fountains, centuries-old castles, and wine caves.

Louvre Museum

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No list of the best places to visit in France would be complete without mentioning the Louvre. The most patronized museum in the world is a historic landmark in its own right with an eye-catching exterior and rooms filled with priceless works of art including the "Mona Lisa" and the Venus de Milo.

Strasbourg Cathedral

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Strasbourg Cathedral is widely regarded as one the most outstanding examples of Rayonnant Gothic architecture (though, for accuracy, the remaining parts of the original structure are Romanesque). It’s a beautiful landmark with heaps of history and visual appeal that’s well worth visiting while in the Alsace region.

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Straddling the French-Italian border and extending into Switzerland, Mont Blanc (which translates to “White Mountain”) rises 15,771 feet, making it the highest mountain in the Alps and the second most prominent peak in Europe. People come from near and far to go skiing, ride the Aiguille du Midi cable car, and even attempt to climb to the summit.

Valensole Plateau Lavender Fields

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Lavender fields have come to define Provence. This purple-hued visual is splashed across the front of virtually every postcard in the region. Many of those photos were taken on the Valensole Plateau, which erupts in a fragrant and vibrant bloom each summer.

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The charming hilltop district of Montmartre in Paris’s 18th arrondissement feels more like a small village than a big city. Cobbled streets, sidewalk cafes, windmills, and performances from local musicians give it a quaint atmosphere. Its crown jewel, the iconic white-domed Sacré-Cœur commands attention.

Saint-Tropez

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Few places shine quite like Saint-Tropez. Celebrities, artists, and jet setters have been flocking to this cinematic holiday hotspot on the French Riveria since the 1960s. The glamorous beach clubs, mega yachts, and charming old fishing quarter keep the crowds thick every summer. 

Belle-Île-en-Mer

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The largest of the islands off the coast of Brittany in northwest France, the aptly named Belle-Île-en-Mer is a beautiful destination with uncrowded beaches, enchanting villages, and rugged cliffs. The jagged rock formation known as Les Aiguilles de Port Coton even inspired Monet to pick up his paintbrush.

Porquerolles

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While it’s impossible to pick a favorite spot along the French Riveria, there’s a lot to love about Porquerolles. The largest of the Îles d'Hyères offers peaceful beaches, calm waters, rolling vineyards, cycling paths through the countryside, old forts, and an off-the-beaten-path vibe.

Veuve Clicquot Champagne House

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For fans of bubbly, few things are as fabulous as a trip to the Champagne region of France. Founded in 1772, Veuve Clicquot tops the list of the most significant and celebrated producers. A visit to this world-famous house in Reims entails touring the historic cellars and, of course, sipping the finest sparkling wine.

Arc De Triomphe

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Everyone who visits France’s capital for the first time heads over to the Arc De Triomphe for that “I went to Paris" photo. It’s worth joining the masses in admiring this famous monument that stands tall at the western end of the Champs-Élysées.

Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc

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Admittedly, an overnight stay at the luxurious Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc at the tip of Cap d’Antibes isn’t in the budget for most travelers. But that shouldn’t preclude you from visiting. Reserve a terrace table at the restaurant to savor Mediterranean cuisine alongside stunning views of the sea and the rock-framed infinity pool.

D-Day Landing Beaches

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Normandy is closely associated with WWII — specifically, the fateful day the Allied troops made landfall at the D-Day beaches, an operation that ultimately led to the liberation of France (and eventually Western Europe) from Nazi occupation. Today, travelers can visit the many museums and memorials along the 50-mile stretch of coastline.

12 Best Places to Visit in France Outside of Paris (Plus Map!)

When it comes to picking the best places to visit in France , there are many to choose from. Besides Paris, France is home to many regions to love and well worth exploring.

As a French-American, I have spent most of my life visiting France. I love it there and what I love most is how diverse France is. It is so much more than the big city of Paris (still well worth a visit.). I have a few favorite places that I recommend to everyone to visit in France.

And if I may say one thing — if you go all the way to France, do try to get outside of Paris. There is so much that awaits outside of the capital city.

Looking for a Full List of Paris Restaurants and Cafes?

Join my private travel community, The Lounge, to get access to my saved Google Maps for Paris with my curated spots. Join here!

When it comes to planning your time in France, you’ll likely fly into Paris’s CDG airport. It’s a great way to kick off a trip exploring the “quartiers” of Paris, and enjoying the food, shopping, and museums. And now after, it’s time to get out and explore.

From countryside escapes to seaside shores, there is so much more to explore besides Paris. Read on to see the best places to visit in France that are beyond Paris. I hope this list gives you a few ideas on just where to go.

Best Places to Visit in France Besides Paris

A helpful map for where to go in france.

I put together a Google Map for all of my favorite places in France to visit. It’s separated by regions first with the orange pins. Then the blue pins are all places you could consider visiting in those regions. Open the maps to be able to fully explore.

Bordeaux is a renowned wine-producing region located in southwestern France, known for its exceptional vineyards and winemaking tradition. It’s literally surrounded by hundreds of vineyards and wineries in the region. What most people think of is the city of Bordeaux itself!

Bordeaux is a historic and beautiful city, with so many fun day trips nearby to places like Saint Emilion . It is the capital of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region and is situated along the River Garonne. The city is known for its beautiful 18th-century architecture, including neoclassical buildings, grand boulevards, and picturesque squares.

I’ve had the chance to spend extended time in Bordeaux when we lived there for six weeks last year. I absolutely love how walkable this city in France is and the ease of using the metro line. There are so many fun things to do in Bordeaux , lovely coffee shops , and incredible dining. And don’t miss these best hotels in Bordeaux for a stay.

If you’re coming from Paris, you’re also in luck — there is a super fast train that is directly right into the city center. Bordeaux is one of my first recommendations for those wanting to get out of Paris, no car is needed.

Popular Places to Visit in the Bordeaux Region:

• Bordeaux City
• Saint Emilion
• Soulac Sur Mer
• The Medoc Wine Region

The Alsace region is located in northeastern France, bordering Germany to the east. It is known for its picturesque villages, charming architecture, and distinctive culture, which bears the influence of both French and German traditions. All of this is due to its historical frontier position on the Franco-German border.

This may be one of my top areas of France to explore year-round. Alsace is home to two very well-known cities, both Strasbourg and Colmar. These Alsatian towns, near incredible vineyards, have lovely historic centers to explore. You can also take a direct train to Strasbourg from Paris which I always recommend using as a homebase for this region. (Here are the best hotels in Strasbourg. )

Come late November to December, this whole region is iconic for its Christmas Markets. The Strasbourg Christmas Market is the most famous, followed by the Colmar Christmas Market . It’s a bucket list experience in France!

The rest of the year is equally lovely. You could rent a car as well and get into the smaller towns of Alsace like Riquewihr, Obernai, and Kayserberg. But for ease, the direct to Strasbourg is from Paris.

Popular Places to Visit in the Alsace Region:

The dordogne and the lot.

The Dordogne, also known as the Périgord, is a picturesque region located in the southwest of France. It is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, historic villages, prehistoric sites, and rich culinary traditions. The Dordogne region boasts diverse landscapes, including rolling countryside, lush river valleys, limestone cliffs, and dense forests.

The Lot is a department in the Occitanie region of southern France, known for its stunning natural landscapes, picturesque medieval villages with timbered houses, and rich history. It borders right next to Dordogne and you can easily visit both on a trip.

I’m partial to this area, my grandmother was raised in The Lot so I’ve spent many trips back visiting this area. But my absolute favorite is being in the heart of the Dordogne Valley near Sarlat-la-Canéda . It is truly one of the most beautiful regions of France that American tourists completely skip over.

The amount of “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” (which literally translates to “the most beautiful villages of France”) here is incredible. There are chateaux, incredible dining, and a lot to visit in day trip form like these 7 villages of Dordogne . It honestly feels like a fairy tale.

The caveat with this region is you do need a car to get around. The easiest access is to train directly to Bordeaux and rent a car from there to explore the region.

Popular Places to Visit in the Dordogne Region:

• Sarlat-la-Canéda
• Beynac-et-Cazenac
• La Roque-Gageac

Popular Places to Visit in the Lot Region:

• Saint-Cirq-Lapopie

Provence, situated in southeastern France, lies in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur department of France. Often when people think of Provence, they’re mostly thinking of areas like the hilltop villages of the Luberon, the French city of Aix-en-Provence, and nearby countryside towns of Avignon and Arles.

Provence is ever-so-lovely to visit, with each season having a unique experience. The spring through fall months are the best times to visit, where lavender fields bloom and the area becomes very lush. This part of France is known for historical towns, the best farmer’s markets, and historic sights.

When we go, I love to use Saint-Rémy-de-Provence as a home base, there are some lovely hotels here . From there you can easily take a drive to Luberon to visit famous villages like Gordes, Roussillon and more. Having a rental car here is a must to get out to see these areas!

One quintessential part of being in Provence is taking part in famed regional gastronomic dining. So be sure to hunt out a few restaurants beforehand. These charming countryside hotels in Provence all have wonderful stays plus many have restaurants right on the property.

For those wanting to make it out to the Provincial coastline, make your way to the small town of Cassis . Just next to Marseille, Cassis might be my favorite coastal town on the Mediterranean. Super quaint, great beaches and hiking , and lovely restaurants to enjoy here!

Popular Places to Visit in Provence:

• The Luberon (Gordes, Ménerbes, Bonnieux, Lacoste, Roussillon, Oppède, Lourmarin)
• Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
• Aix-en-Provence

Normandy, situated in northwestern France, is a region of profound historical significance and breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its pivotal role in the D-Day landings during World War II, the region’s beaches like Omaha and Utah Beach stand as solemn reminders of the Allied invasion.

Normandy’s landscapes are equally diverse, with rolling green countryside, coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, and picturesque apple orchards. Historic towns such as Rouen, Honfleur, and Bayeux offer glimpses into the region’s rich architectural heritage, featuring medieval and Renaissance buildings and towering Gothic cathedrals.

The iconic Mont Saint-Michel, perched on a rocky island, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a marvel of medieval architecture. Normandy is celebrated for its culinary traditions, including creamy cheeses like Camembert, apple-based products such as cider and Calvados, and fresh seafood from coastal towns.

It has also inspired Impressionist painters like Monet, with Giverny serving as a testament to the region’s artistic allure. Seaside resorts, Calvados and cider routes, festivals, and peaceful countryside make Normandy a captivating destination that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty in the heart of northern France.

Popular Places to Visit in Normandy:

• Mont Saint-Michel

One of my favorite, often overlooked, regions of France is the Languedoc . Languedoc-Rousillon, also known as Occitanie, is a captivating region in the south of France that boasts a diverse and culturally rich landscape. From its picturesque Mediterranean coastline with sandy beaches to the rugged Pyrenees Mountains in the west and the rolling vineyard-covered hills of its interior.

Steeped in history, the region features medieval treasures like the walled city of Carcassonne, and it played a significant role in the Cathar movement during the Middle Ages. Carcassonne is an absolute treasure to not miss while in this region.

Languedoc is also renowned for its wine production, with vineyards producing a wide array of wines. Its cultural heritage, celebrated through festivals, music, and the Occitan language, adds depth to the region’s charm, making it a captivating destination for history buffs, wine enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and those seeking a taste of Mediterranean culture.

Languedoc sits right next to Provence, so if you’re looking for something a bit more quiet, this is another option to consider. It’s quieter here, more rugged, but very much worth the visit.

Popular Places to Visit in Languedoc:

• Carcassonne
• Montpellier
• Canal du Midi

The Loire Valley

The Loire Valley, nestled in the heart of France, is a region of unparalleled beauty and historical significance. It is renowned for its magnificent châteaux, each a testament to different periods of architecture, and its lush vineyards producing some of the country’s finest wines.

The Loire River stands as France’s final untouched waterway, stretching for 1000 miles and winding through nature’s unspoiled landscapes. Along the way, scenic towns, castles, and wineries are here to enjoy.

My family is from Poitiers just south of the Loire Valley. We’ve spent many day trips visiting up into this fairytale land to explore. So many wonderful fortified towns like Chinon and Amboise which you can also easily visit by way of Paris.

In the Loire Valley, you can’t miss impressive castles like Château de Chambord, Château de Chenonceau, Château de Villandry, Château de Azay-le-Rideau, and Château de Amboise are a must-see.

From Paris, I’d rent a car or train into Tours and grab a car there to start a road trip in this area. Public transport is more limited so a car is needed to explore.

Popular Places to Visit in The Loire Valley:

French riviera.

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur, is a captivating stretch of coastline along the Mediterranean Sea in southeastern France. Renowned for its glamour and natural beauty, the French Riviera has stunning azure waters, sun-kissed beaches, and a Mediterranean climate.

The region encompasses glamorous cities like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco, where upscale resorts, world-class restaurants, and vibrant nightlife are well known. The smaller towns of Èze, Saint-Tropez, Antibes, Menton, and Villefranche-Sur-Mer are also well worth a visit.

Beyond the coastal towns, the French Riviera offers picturesque vineyards and scenic hikes in the Alpes-Maritimes. Bucketlist towns like Saint Paul de Vence should not be overlooked when down in this area.

With its combination of cultural richness, breathtaking landscapes, and a touch of luxury, the French Riviera remains a timeless destination. This is probably the most visited area of France after Paris, so try to time your travels for late spring or early fall to skip the crowds!

If you’re coming from Paris, one recommendation is to consider flying to Nice Airport. It’s much quicker and from there you can access most of the coastline by train.

Popular Places to Visit in The French Riviera:

• Villefranche-Sur-Mer
• Saint Paul de Vence

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Region

The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in southeastern France is a blend of incredible landscapes, historical cities, and gastronomy. It encompasses a wide array of landscapes, from the majestic French Alps with world-class ski resorts to the idyllic vineyards of the Rhône Valley. The region’s cities, including Lyon (the largest city in this area), Grenoble, and Annecy, offer a vibrant mix of art, culture, and gastronomy, with Lyon being particularly renowned for its culinary excellence.

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes also boasts historic towns, such as Vichy and Chambéry, along with numerous outdoor recreational opportunities, making it really great for both adventure seekers and those looking to immerse themselves in the heart of French culture. This area is home to many of the alp destinations of France, like Mont Blanc.

I’m a big fan of this region, mostly because one of my favorite places to visit outside of Paris is here. Annecy, France , in the Haute-Savoie part of this region. It’s one of the most magical places in France to visit, where cobbled streets and winding canals lead to the turquoise-colored lake. With so many things to do in Annecy , I always recommend booking at least 3 nights in a local hotel .

The food here is incredible, very rich, with dishes like raclette and tartiflette. It’s also not very far from Lyon , so you could easily visit both at the same time.

Popular Places to Visit in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Region:

• Aix-les-Bains
• Côtes du Rhône

Burgundy, situated in east-central France, is a region that has cultural and gastronomic significance. It is internationally acclaimed for its exceptional wines, with vineyards gracing its picturesque landscapes. The region’s historic treasures include magnificent châteaux and abbeys, such as the Hospices de Beaune and Château de Vougeot, offering glimpses into Burgundy’s rich past.

The cities of Dijon and Beaune showcase well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture, while the capital, Dijon, has a vibrant cultural scene. Iconic French dishes like coq au vin and escargot all originate from this region!

You can really visit this region in a few different ways, but most visitors start in Dijon. From there, you can do several day trips depending on how much time you have.

Popular Places to Visit in the Burgundy Region:

• Canal de Bourgogne
• Pays d’Auxois
• Chalon-sur-Saône

Champagne in northeastern France, is the birthplace of the world’s most iconic sparkling wine, Champagne. The cities of Reims and Epernay serve as gateways to this wine lover’s paradise, housing renowned Champagne houses where visitors can explore historic cellars and savor the effervescent nectar.

The region is steeped in history, with the impressive Cathedral of Reims as a symbol of its past significance. Picturesque vineyards, charming villages like Hautvillers and Aÿ, and scenic routes offer glimpses of its countryside charm. Beyond its wine culture, Champagne’s natural beauty, from the Marne River to the Montagne de Reims Natural Park, adds to the region’s allure.

If you’re in Paris, taking the train to Reims is one of the easiest trips to make. The direct train is around 1.5 hours, and Reims itself is a vibrant city to visit. Reims serves as a great base for day trips to other charming towns and villages in the Champagne region, including Epernay, Châlons-en-Champagne, and the vineyard-covered hillsides of the region.

Popular Places to Visit in the Champagne Region:

• Châlons-en-Champagne
• Hautvillers

French Basque Country

French Basque Country is one of my favorite parts of France. We grew up going as kids to Biarritz to see family, and I have some of my fondest memories here. In the southwestern corner of France, it’s a captivating region renowned for its distinct cultural identity and traditions.

Here, Basque culture is vibrantly celebrated, from the use of the Basque language, Euskara, to lively music, dances, and traditional sports like pelota. Coastal gems like Biarritz, with its beautiful beaches and surf culture, and Saint-Jean-de-Luz, known for its charming bay and seafood cuisine. The historic city of Bayonne has incredibly well-preserved architecture and annual Fetes de Bayonne festivities.

Inland, Espelette’s red peppers are an icon to the region’s cuisine, while those who want to be outdoors can explore the Pyrenees mountains and the Atlantic coast. This region truly has it all.

I think a proper week or two would do to visit this area if you want to explore all corners of it. For sans a car, I’d take the train from Paris into Biarritz and enjoy one of my favorite Atlantic beach towns in France.

Popular Places to Visit in the French Basque Country:

• Saint-Jean-de-Luz

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Ps — are you booking a trip soon use my booking checklist.

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

Related Posts

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Dordogne

The 7 Most Beautiful Villages in Alsace, France to Visit

The 18 Best Hotels in Paris with Eiffel Tower Views

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50 Best Things to Do in France

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

What to Do in France?

Looking for some epic ideas to help you decide what to do in France? Look no further.

With so many interesting regions , beautiful landscapes, and endless landmarks scattered throughout the land, France is an excellent travel destination, and discovering the best things to do in France (and write about it!) is a lifelong project for us.

Based in Paris, we take every opportunity to explore different corners of France, and yet our France bucket list seems to keep getting longer instead of shorter!

Here are our favorite things to do and things to see in France – from the obvious to the unusual – for when you visit this great country. Some we’ve done, some we haven’t, and some we like to do again and again. Now, how many have you ticked off your list?

TIP: Start planning your next French adventure; check out our France Travel Planner !

Best Things to Do in Northern France

1. be moved by mont saint-michel.

Be moved by  Mont Saint-Michel , the wonder of the Western World and one of the best places to visit in Northern France . This superb Benedictine abbey and renowned center of pilgrimage is set on a rocky island at the mouth of the Couesnon River, where the regions of Normandy and Brittany meet.

The area is known for its high tides, which leave the abbey inaccessible for some hours and give Mont Saint-Michel a picturesque setting.

MONT SAINT-MICHEL TRIP PLANNING

• Quick Guide to Mont Saint-Michel
• Best Hotels in Mont Saint-Michel
• Buy your Tickets to Mont Saint-Michel

2. A Royal Day in Versailles

The Château of Versailles is a wonder of French baroque architecture and one of the top things to see in France on any holiday to Paris.

Visit the fabulous rooms and halls inside the Château, which was home to three French kings and their courts. Then explore the magnificent French-style gardens , with beautiful fountains and grooves, and the grounds around the Grand Canal, perhaps on two wheels or on a rowboat.

VERSAILLES TRIP PLANNING

• Quick Guide to Versailles Palace and Gardens
• Best Hotels near the Palace of Versailles
• Buy your Tickets to Versailles

3. Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches

The Normandy Landing Operations was the largest seaborne invasion in history. The invasion took place on the beaches of Normandy (Omaha, Utah, Sword Gold, and Juno Beach) on Tuesday, 6 June 1944, by the Allies, and it was the beginning of the liberation of German-occupied France (and later Europe) from Nazi control.

The Normandy D-day Landing Beaches is one of the most popular day trips from Paris. However, if you have the time, explore the area on a multi-day road trip to visit the beaches and some war cemeteries and memorials.

D-DAY LANDING BEACHES TRIP PLANNING

• Normandy WW2 Sites Road Trip
• Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Tour from Paris

4. Spend a Night (or Two) in a French Château

Spending a night in a French château is one of the unique things to do in France. France is home to more than 40,000 châteaux of all periods and styles. Some of these French châteaux are home to nobles or rich people, while others have been beautifully restored and turned into boutique hotels, perfect for a relaxing weekend getaway in France.

Château de Villiers-le-Mahieu (in the picture above) and Château d’Ermenonville are two beautiful examples near Paris, but there are many more!

• Best Château-hotels in the Loire Valley
• Best Château-hotels in Burgundy
• Best Château-hotels in the Champagne region

5. Climb Up the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is the most iconic monument in Paris (and France), and the climb up to the summit is always on the top of any Paris bucket list .

The views from the top of the Eiffel Tower are amazing, especially at sunset. On the second floor, there’s also an interesting exhibition about the history of the Eiffel Tower and its construction – Click here to buy your tickets to the Eiffel Tower

6. Visit the Burial Place of the Kings of France at Saint-Denis

The Basilica-Cathedral of Saint-Denis is the burial place of the Kings of France from the 12th century to the 19th century. This magnificent building also represents the birth of Gothic architecture in France.

Indeed, this is the first French cathedral rebuilt using new techniques like the pointed arch, the pointed ribbed vault, or the use of stained glass windows to get more light inside.

Located in the city of Saint-Denis, a few kilometers north of Paris, the Basilica-Cathedral of Saint-Denis makes for an easy half-day trip from the French capital – Click here to Buy your Tickets to the Basilica of Saint-Denis

7. A Day at the Louvre Museum

Visit the Louvre, the world’s best museum, and admire some of the greatest masterworks of all time!

Also, take the time to learn the history of this former Royal Palace. For many centuries, the Louvre was the seat of the French Kings until King Louis XIV moved to Versailles. Explore the Louvre’s medieval moats and walls, Napoleon iii’s apartments, the royal galleries, and more!

LOUVRE MUSEUM TRIP PLANNING

• Buy your Tickets to the Louvre Museum
• How to Visit the Louvre in 2 hours or Less

8. Follow the Cider Route in Normandy

If you are looking for fun things to do in France, take the Cider Trail in Normandy . Here, apples abound, and the region is famous for its cider and other famous French drinks like Calvados or Pommeau.

Get ready to unfold the journey of apples from farms to your glasses by following the Cider Trail – a well-marked 40km tourist circuit through the region of Pays d’Auge in Lower Normandy.

The Pays d’Auge is popular for typical half-timbered houses, stud farms, apple orchards, and distillers who open their cellars and pressing sheds to visitors to taste their products.

9. A Night of Can Can Dance and Bubbles in a Parisian Cabaret

Parisian cabarets are a fun way to enjoy Paris at night in style and a popular option for special celebrations.

Today, the most famous cabaret shows in Paris, like the Moulin Rouge or the Paradis Latin , are a mix of music hall and burlesque shows offering lavish musical and theatrical productions with elaborate costumes, singing, and dancing.

In Paris, a cabaret show is traditionally served with dinner, paired with some of the best French wines and champagne into an all-evening extravaganza. It is an evening of entertainment, fun, and lots of bubbles.

CABARET SHOW PLANNING

• Quick Guide to the Best Cabarets in Paris
• Buy your Tickets to the Moulin Rouge Cabaret Show
• Buy your Tickets to the Paradis Latin Cabaret Show
• Buy your Tickets to the Crazy Horse Cabaret Show

10. Admire the Spectacular Cliffs of Etretat

Our France Bucket List is also full of natural wonders. Etretat is a small town on the Alabaster Coast in Normandy, famous for its spectacular vertical cliffs and other rock formations that inspired some of Monet’s masterworks. There are arches, sea stacks, and tunnels cut into the 50 to 80 m high chalk walls.

Etretat also has beautiful architecture built in the Anglo-Norman style and some interesting sites. It is possible to visit Etretat on a weekend trip from Paris – or even better – as part of a Normandy road trip .

11. Feel the Divine at the Grandes Cathédrales

The historical region of Picardy , in Hauts-de-France , is probably the region with the most awesome Gothic cathedrals per square meter in the world!

From  Laon , one of the first Grandes Cathédrales inspired by this new Gothic art, to the cathedrals of  Amiens  or  Beauvais , visitors can witness the main steps of the evolution of Gothic architecture in France, extraordinary buildings, all listed UNESCO heritage and usually surrounded by charming old towns.

12. Nature as its Best at the Bay of Somme

The Bay of Somme  is the largest estuary in Northern France, an unspoiled place composed of dunes, marshes, and salt meadows.

Situated on the route of migrating birds, the Bay of Somme is a paradise for birdwatchers, with more than 250 different species of birds spending a part of the year in the area. It is also home to the largest colony of French seals, which can be spotted resting on sandbanks that emerge as the tide recedes.

Enjoy the Bay of Somme and its wildlife from the water, on foot, or by bike. The Belle Époque steam train ( Le Chemin de Fer de la Baie de Somme ) is also fun to discover these beautiful landscapes.

13. Look for the Water Lilies at Monet’s Garden

Explore Monet’s Gardens in Giverny , the object of some of Monet’s masterworks. Admire the water lily pond, where Monet painted his world-famous water lilies series.

The artist’s house and the attached workshop are also worth the visit, and they are an excellent opportunity to get a glimpse of Monet’s life and work in Giverny – Click here to book a Giverny day trip from Paris

Best Things to Do in Central France

14. fly over the valley of the kings on a hot-air balloon.

A hot air balloon flight , wherever it is in the world, is a truly magical experience. But it is even more magical if you can fly over some of the most beautiful châteaux of the Loire Valley .

Glide through the sky in a massive floating vessel while enjoying sunrise or sunset — and perhaps a glass of champagne — over magnificent Renaissance châteaux and their beautiful grounds in the Loire Valley – Book your Hot Air Balloon Experience over the Loire Valley

LOIRE VALLEY TRIP PLANNING

• Loire Valley Trip Planner
• Loire Valley Road Trip Itinerary

15. The Loire Valley by Bike

La Loire à Vélo is one of the top activities in France for bike lovers. The Loire by Bike is a unique 800 km cycle route that links Nevers to Saint Brevin-Les-Pins in the Atlantic Ocean. Follow France’s last great wild river on two wheels while exploring the Loire Valley with its beautiful Renaissance châteaux, medieval towns, and good wines!

Best Things to Do in Southern France

16. go in search of the blue gold of provence.

The lavender fields in Provence are some of the most striking landscapes in Southern France. From mid-June to late August, explore the Valensole Plateau , the Luberon Valley , and the Sault Plateau , well known for its “blue gold,” lavender distilleries, and pretty small towns.

A trip to the lavender fields in Provence is one of the unique things to do in France. For the best pictures, plan your trip carefully around the blooming periods in each area.

LAVENDER FIELDS TRIP PLANNING

• Quick Guide to the Lavender Fields in Provence
• Lavender Season in Provence
• The Ultimate Lavender Route Road Trip

17. Explore the World of Perfumes in Grasse

Worldwide known as the perfume capital, Grasse is a small town in Provence where the perfume industry has prospered since the end of the 18th century.

Today, Grasse attracts visitors worldwide willing to learn about the art of perfumes in France at the Musée International de la Parfumerie (2 Boulevard du Jeu de Ballon). Grasse is also the last stop of the Route du Mimosa , which is especially beautiful to drive in wintertime.

Grasse has several perfume factories, but Fragonard’s Historical Factory (20 Boulevard Fragonard, free entrance) is the most famous. There are also many perfume workshops where you can learn the art of perfume making and create your own essence – Click here to design your own Fragrance in Grasse

18. The Gorges du Verdon by Kayak

Set in the Verdon Regional Park, Gorges du Verdon is one of Europe’s most fabulous natural settings and one of the most beautiful places to see in France. This limestone canyon with turquoise waters runs for 25 kilometers through the Park, and at points, it reaches depths of more than 700 meters.

Among the different ways to explore the Gorges du Verdon, kayaking is the most popular. Rent a kayak for half a day and paddle through the canyon alone or in two. There are some spots where you can tie the kayak to take a refreshing bath.

The list of outdoor activities around the Gorges du Verdon includes canyoning, rafting, hiking, via ferrata, paragliding, and rock climbing. Click here to browse all outdoor activities in Gorges du Verdon .

TIP: This Gorges du Verdon Road Trip covers the Gorges and some pretty neighboring villages.

19. Explore the Magnificent Palace of the Popes in Avignon

If you are wondering what to see in France for great architecture and history, Avignon is a good place to visit. Avignon , in Southern France, was in the 14th century the heart of Christendom and home to six Catholic Popes. Standing high above the city, visitors will find the Palais des Papes , the magnificent 14th-century building where the Popes lived and celebrated the most important religious events.

Listed as UNESCO World Heritage, the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) is also the world’s largest and most important civil construction built in Gothic style, with more than 15,000 square meters of living space – Click here to buy your Tickets to the Palace of the Popes

20. A Breath of Fresh Air at the Calanques of Marseille

The National Park Calanques of Marseille–Cassis , in Southern France, offers spectacular landscapes, rich flora and fauna, and endless outdoor activities. This National Park includes coastal ranges of creeks, a vast marine area of the Mediterranean Sea, several islands, and one of the richest submarine canyons in the world.

The best way to explore the Calanques is by walking one of the hiking trails that follow the coast, but you can also book a catamaran tour and explore this wonderful area from the water.

21. Explore the Hilltop Villages of Provence

The region of Provence is dotted with many hilltop villages, a world of winding roads, beautiful stone houses, stunning panoramas, and silence. These villages were usually built on the top of the hills to protect their population from different threads.

If the Luberon Villages  ( Roussillon , Gordes, Menerbes , and more) are the most popular villages of Provence , there are still many hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

22. Corsica Island by Car

The best way to explore the beautiful Corsica Island is on a road trip. This is also the only way to reach Corsica’s best beaches.

For short stays, we suggest staying in one of the biggest cities and exploring its surroundings on day trips by car. For more extended holidays, go off the beaten path, inland, and also visit the smaller islands nearby – Check out our Best Tips for Renting a Car in France

23. Whisper to Horses at the Camargue Nature Reserve

A trip to the Camargue is one of the top things to do in France for nature lovers. This protected area in Southern France, mostly made of marshlands, is famous for its herd of horses and pink flamingos. The Camargue is also an excellent place for bird watching or just for a relaxing mini-holiday among great nature.

TIP: This Road Trip in Southern France covers the Camargue and much more!

24. Explore the Cathar Region of France

The Cathar Route takes you to some of the most incredible fortresses, intriguing abbeys, and medieval towns in Southern France. These sites are related to the Cathars, a Christian dualist movement in the Languedoc region between the 12th and 14th centuries. The Cathars were considered heretics by the Catholic Church, and they were the main target of some of the most violent crusades.

A Cathar Country road trip with your own car is the best way to explore the Cathar sites like the Cité de Carcassonne , Château de Montségur, or Fontfroide.

25. Walk the Ochre Trail in Roussillon

Le Sentier des Ochres (the Ochre Trail) in Roussillon is a beautiful hike through Roussillon’s remains of the ochre quarries. Walk between the cliffs and the red tints, surrounded by a lush forest, and learn about the ochre exploitation in Provence.

There are two different trails of 30 and 50 minutes. Although it is not adapted for people in wheelchairs, the first 50 meters are accessible (and free to visit for them) and end with a panoramic view.

The site is closed to the public from 1 January to 9 February. Out of these dates, Le Sentier des Ochres is open every day.

26. Winter Fun at Menton’s Lemon Festival

If you are looking for fun things to do in France in wintertime, don’t miss Menton in February. The picturesque town of Menton , close to the Italian border, is famous for its lemons: very bright, yellow, and elongated fruits prized by chefs for their rich essential oil.

Menton is one of the best places to visit in France in winter . Every February since 1934, the  Fête du Citron (Menton’s Lemon Festival) takes place. This unique event that celebrates lemons involves giant sculptures of lemons and other citrus fruits. The displays are also accompanied by parades, shows, music, and dances.

27. A Journey to the Center of the Earth at Gouffrede Padirac

The Gouffre de Padirac (Padirac Chasm) is another of the best things to see in France. This is the monumental entrance to a natural cavity 53 meters wide and 103 meters deep located in the Lot department in Occitanie.

After a vertiginous descent, embark on a boat trip along the underground river to explore one of the most interesting geological sites in France,

The best part of the visit comes after the boat trip, where the caves are stunningly brilliant. Book your tickets well in advance!

28. Dreamy Days in the French Riviera

The French Riviera (Côte d’Azur) is one of the most beautiful parts of southern France, which always seems to be bathed in sunshine.  Nice  is the French Riviera’s capital and a convenient place to stay to explore the surroundings.

Clustered around  Nice , there are some compelling destinations like  Antibes , the hilltop villages ,  Cannes ,  Menton,  or  Saint Tropez , perfect for exploring on day trips from Nice. You can really spend some dreamy days on the French Riviera!

FRENCH RIVIERA TRIP PLANNING

• Best Places to Visit in the French Riviera
• Best Beaches in the French Riviera
• Best Resorts on the French Riviera
• French Riviera Road Trip

29. Canal du Midi on a Boat Barge or by Bike

Stretching from Toulouse to Sète, the Canal du Midi is a feat of architectural genius that links the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. This 17th-century construction required the work of 12,000 men over fifteen years.

The Canal du Midi is listed UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is an unmissable tourist destination in Southern France. Visitors can explore the Canal du Midi by boat, hotel barge, and bike.

30. Get Lost in the Markets of Provence

The markets of Provence are lovely and a ritual that is truly part of living in Provence. Just about every village in Provence has a weekly market, usually in one of the main squares, while markets in bigger towns occur twice a week or even daily.

The markets of Provence sell prepared foods and fresh produce but not only. There are also stalls with flowers and provençal goods such as lavender, tablecloths, clothes, and more.

We have some favorites, like the markets of Saint-Rémy, Lourmarin, Apt (voted one of the most beautiful markets in France), and Aix-en-Provence market (the most famous). You can easily spend a day wandering through the colorful stalls and people-watching, or you can sit at a wonky table with a coffee or a glass of rosé.

Best Things to Do in Eastern France

31. follow the alsace wine route.

The Wine Route of Alsace is one of the best road trips in France . The legendary 170-kilometer stretch along the historic region of Alsace in Grand Est takes you through a string of picturesque villages, well-known wine-producing towns, and exceptional landscapes.

To get the most out of the Alsace Wine Route, consider a minimum of three days, but of course, you can take more time! Be sure to include places like Strasbourg , Colmar , and perhaps a short hike through the vineyards.

ALSACE WINE ROUTE TRIP PLANNING

• Alsace Wine Route Road Trip
• Things to Do in Strasbourg
• Things to Do in Colmar
• Most Beautiful Villages in Alsace

32. Join a Food Tour in Lyon

If you are wondering what to do in France to enjoy great food, head to Vieux Lyon. Generally acknowledged to be the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon is the ideal place to discover French cuisine and fall in love with it .  

Lyon is a city with more restaurants per head and where food is taken to another level and people, it’s a way of life!

Join this top-rated food tour to discover the secrets of Lyon’s traditional cuisine . This tour visits a traditional bouillon Lyonnais, a cheese shop, a chocolate shop, and other shops selling local products.

33. Explore the Lakes and Waterfalls of the Jura

In the region of Bourgogne-Franche Comté, the department of Jura offers a magnificent succession of forests and lakes with wooded banks. Some belvederes are perfect for admiring the lakes and getting some fresh air.

The Jura is also land to many waterfalls, usually linked through beautiful hikes.

The Jura and its natural wonders are best explored by car. Have a look at this  road trip through the Jura , one of the best road trips for nature lovers.

34. Stunning Modern Architecture by Le Corbusier

This France things to do list also has space for iconic architecture. The Swiss-born architect Le Corbusier is the father of Modern Architecture, and he designed many iconic buildings all around France.

Villa Savoye near Paris is Le Corbusier’s most famous work, the first project to which he applied the five pillars of Modern Architecture. Other famous buildings by Le Corbusier include Ronchamp Chapel (in the picture above), L’ Unité d’Habitation in Marseille, and La Tourette Convent.

35. Enjoy Some of the World’s Best Wines along the Route des Grands Crus

The Route des Grands Crus is the most famous wine trail in Bourgogne. This Burgundy wine trail from Beaune to Dijon is an ideal road trip for wine lovers who also enjoy picturesque small towns and beautiful landscapes.

Explore the beautiful region of Burgundy and learn about its winemakers’ savoir-faire while enjoying some of the world’s best reds and whites.

36. Winter Getaway at Les Trois Vallées

The French Alps are an excellent destination for a winter getaway in France, home to iconic snow-capped peaks, charming old towns, and endless ski slopes.

Les Trois Vallées is the largest ski area in the world, with 600 kilometers of pistes and some of the best ski resorts in the French Alps . Enjoy a ski holiday in one of the most snow-sure resorts in Europe, as well as other thrilling activities guaranteed to keep dedicated skiers and non-skiers alike happy all holiday.

37. Lyon’s Festival of Lights Awaits

In Lyon , the coldest season kicks off with the Festival of Lights ,  one of the best things to do in France in wintertime.

The  Fête des Lumières (usually the first weekend of December) began as a spontaneous celebration of the Virgin Mary when her bronze statue was erected, and all the Lyonnais placed candles in their windows to honor Her.

Today, different artists light up buildings, streets, squares, and parks all over the city. The city has a magical atmosphere with more than forty light installations to discover.

38. Admire the Top of Europe from Aiguille du Midi

The Aiguille du Midi is a 3,842-metre-tall mountain in the Mont Blanc massif within the French Alps. It can be directly accessed by cable car from Chamonix for a closer view of the Mont Blanc (4,810m).

Once up, several terraces offer panoramic views of beautiful glaciers and the Alps. Don’t miss The Vertical Space , a museum dedicated to the adventure of ascending Mont Blanc throughout history.

Chamonix is also home to many fun outdoor activities all year round. Click here for the full list of fun things to do in Chamonix .

39. Champagne Tasting in Epernay

Epernay , in the region of Grand Est, is the capital of the Champagne region, where the most important champagne houses succeed one another along its famous Avenue de Champagne .

Visit the city with its beautiful 19th-century private mansions and join a tour of one of the best Champagne houses in Epernay to learn about the history and production of champagne wine . Most of the time, these tours end with some champagne tastings.

40. Hike the Volcanoes of Auvergne

Auvergne , in the Massif Central, is one of the most beautiful things to see in France, a land of 450 dormant volcanoes spread in the Chaîne des Puys, Monts Dore, Artense, Cézallier, and Monts du Cantal. The Volcanoes of Auvergne are a paradise for hikers, with long and short trails that suit all levels.

The Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Natural Park is the largest French regional natural park, home to the famous Puy-de-Dome and other stunning volcanos. It has unique landscapes but also a beautiful heritage built with volcanic stones and remarkable biodiversity.

The city of Clermont Ferrand is a good base to explore the Volcanoes of Auvergne. From here, you can do many fun activities like paragliding, quad bike, canyoning, and karting – Click here for the full list

41. A Spa Day in Vichy

Thanks to the richness of its volcanic soil, the region of Auvergne contains a variety of thermal sources to treat many conditions, also perfect for a quick recovery after a long hike.

Among the Auvergne’s spa towns, Vichy is the spa resort par excellence, well known for its springs’ healing and therapeutic properties and its beautiful Art-Déco architecture.

Enjoy Vichy Thermal Spa , one of the biggest spas in Europe, but also be sure to explore Vichy’s rich Art-Déco heritage, its Opera House, eclectic villas, grand hotels, and two casinos.

42. Christmas Wonderland in Alsace

Alsace’s Christmas Markets are the best Christmas Markets in France to visit. As Alsace sits on the border with Germany, some of the German traditions of Christmas have become part of the culture in Alsace.

From mid-November to December, the Christmas Markets of Alsace are a must-do in France. There are huge Christmas trees, many lights, and many Christmas decorations in the different old towns, and it truly feels like a Christmas wonderland.

Wander around the different wooden chalets, do your last Christmas shopping, and eat some sweets or gingerbread. When it gets too cold, you can always keep yourself warm with a hot chocolate or a jar of mulled wine.

ALSACE CHRISTMAS MARKETS TRIP PLANNING

• Best Christmas Markets in Alsace
• Quick Guide to the Strasbourg Christmas Market
• Quick Guide to the Colmar Christmas Market
• Where to Sleep in Strasbourg
• Where to Sleep in Colmar

Best Things to Do in Western France

43. surf the waves in biarritz.

In the French Basque Country, Biarritz is a surfing haven, the undisputed epicenter of surfing in France.

In the beginning, only foreigners came to surf in Biarritz. Soon, the locals adopted the sport and promoted it to the point that today, Biarritz is at the top of anyone’s places-to-surf bucket list, the place where some of the biggest international surfing competitions take place.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, we are sure that you will find your sweet surfing spot in Biarritz. Check out this list of places in Biarritz where you can learn or improve your surfing skills . 

44. Hike the Sentier des Douaniers (GR34)

The GR34 , also known as  Le Sentier des Douaniers , is one of the top hikes in France. This path borders the coastline of Brittany for over 2,000 kilometers, and it was originally used by customs officers to prevent smuggling.

Walk the whole hike (or only a part of it) and explore Brittany’s impressive cliffs, lonely beaches, and picturesque coastal towns.

45. Visit the Quirky Machines de l’Ile in Nantes

Les Machines de l’Ile , is the must-attraction in Nantes and one of the quirkiest things to do in France. Located on an isle in the middle of the Loire River, in the city’s former shipyards, this artistic project brings together a set of crazy machines that seem straight out of Jules Verne’s imagination and Leonardo Da Vinci’s invention.

Ride the  Sea World Carousel  on the back of the strangest marine creatures. Wander around the island on a  crazy elephant  who likes to shower all the kids he finds on his way! Visit the  Galerie des Machines , where a team of crazy inventors and machinists are working on new projects and machines.

46. Get Mystic at the Alignments of Carnac

The Alignments of Carnac , in Bretagne, Western France, is an exceptional site of megalithic alignments with more than 3,000 menhirs over more than 4 kilometers. These menhirs were erected between 6,000 and 2,000 AD, and even if we still don’t know the purpose of these alignments, they are just amazing.

Carnac is one of the unique places to see in France. Start with an introductory video and exhibition at the Maison des Mégalithes . Then take the time to wander around the stones and soak up the special atmosphere of this unique site.

47. Run the Quirky Marathon des Châteaux du Médoc  

If you are looking for fun things to do in France, don’t miss the Marathon du Médoc . This unique event takes place every year in September through the world-famous vineyards of Médoc, near Bordeaux . Here, participants run with fun costumes on, and wine tastings and other activities are organized along the course.   

This marathon race is considered “the longest marathon in the world” because of the numerous activities for runners scattered around the course. The various wine tastings do not help either!

The Marathon des Châteaux du Médoc attracts every year around 8,500 participants, representing more than 50 nations, as well as many spectators. The marathon is organized by a volunteer association with more than 2,800 volunteers, and it’s a joyful event that we suggest to try at least once in your life.

48. Climb up the Dune du Pilat, Europe’s Largest Sand Dune

Dune du Pilat is an impressive sight, spanning around 3 km in length, 600 m in width, and a lofty 100 or so meters high. It is located in the Arcachon Basin, and it is one of the best places to visit near Bordeaux .

Dune du Pilat is one of the most unique things to do in Western France . Climb up to the top of the dune to admire the nature on offer, or book in for a paraglide over the dune to gain a bird’s eye view of the nearby forest and the Atlantic Ocean – Click here to book a Dune du Pilat day tour from Bordeaux

49. Enjoy Amazing Prehistoric Art At Lascaux IV

Lascaux , near Sarlat-la-Canéda , is one of the most important prehistoric sites in the world! A UNESCO World Heritage site, the cave features over 600 parietal paintings, considered to be masterpieces of Stone Age art.

Lascaux was discovered in 1940 by a group of local young boys and opened to the public in 1963. Unfortunately, human breath started to make the paintings deteriorate, so the original site was permanently closed in the 80s.

The current site is a perfect replica of the original. It is called  Lascaux IV , being Lascaux II and Lascaux III partial replicas that you can also visit. Don’t miss Lascaux IV’s great guided visit, which starts with an emotional approach to the discovery. You can visit Lascaux IV on a day trip from Sarlat or as part of a Dordogne road trip . Book your tickets well in advance!

50. The Sweet Life in the Gulf of Morbihan

The best things to do in France list ends on the Brittany coast. With its many islands and islets, its microclimate that warms the sea, and its sweet life, the Gulf of Morbihan is one of the most beautiful landscapes in western Frane to discover all year.

Morbihan means little sea in the local language, and it is the perfect place for sailing on a catamaran, hiking, or exploring the little islands protected from the vagaries of the ocean. Among the fifty or so islands in Morbihan,  Île aux Moines  and Île d’ Arz  are locals’ favorites.

More France Bucket List Ideas

• Things to Do in Northern France
• Things to Do in Southern France
• Things to Do in Eastern France
• Things to Do in Western France

And there you have it, our France Bucket List, the list of what to do in France for a unique French holiday. Do you have any favorites not included in this list? Let us know in the France Travel Facebook Group ; we will be happy to enlarge the list!

Click here for more Travel Inspiration .

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The 15 most beautiful places in France

By Lanie Goodman

'What is the beautiful, if not the impossible,’ famously wrote French writer Gustave Flaubert. And when it comes to pinpointing what most captivates our senses, there’s nothing predictable about the unspoilt powdery snow of majestic Alpine peaks or the improbably clear emerald shallows of a deserted Corsican beach. Sometimes beauty is as simple as a shaft of pure winter light illuminating the pastel façade of a village house or the graceful harmony of a grandiose chateau. But whether it’s an unlikely glittering aluminium tower in the Provençal town of Arles or the astonishing panorama of Auvergne’s extinct volcanoes, France’s exceptionally diverse attractions add up to a joyous fête of unimaginable marvels.

PLATEAU DE VALENSOLE, PROVENCE

When it comes to lavender , timing is everything: to experience the full sniff-and-swoon effect of a glorious field of purple stalks, visit in June and July, when the flowers are abuzz with bees. Explore lesser-known spots such as Sault or Forcalquier and keep an eye out for roadside farmers’ stands, which are the real deal for honey and fragrant lavender by-products. Try a stress-busting lavender-oil-based massage at the L’Occitane spa at boutique hotel Le Couvent des Minimes , set in an elegantly restored 17th-century convent.

SAINT-JEAN-CAP-FERRAT, COTE D'AZUR

Wedged between Nice and Monaco , this secluded 2.48-square-kilometre finger of privileged land is much more than a luxurious enclave of security-gated mansions. In this quiet, wind-sheltered village where just about anything will grow, there’s a splendid rocky footpath along the shimmering sea to explore, plus a national museum in the extravagant turn-of-the-century gardens at Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, ablaze with exotic blooms. No wonder the likes of Somerset Maugham, Matisse, Chagall and Cocteau set up house here; for a taste of that timeless splendour, book a sun lounger at the Olympic-sized pool of Le Club Dauphin at the Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat Four Seasons .

MENTON, COTE D'AZUR

Sheltered by a circle of mountains, this tranquil town flush with the Italian border still conjures a Dolce Vita vintage postcard – the gentle curve of beach, sorbet-coloured stacked houses and the baroque bell-tower church set in the cobblestoned backstreets are just the beginning. On the palm-fringed café-lined seafront, black-vested waiters dodge traffic, balancing trays of Aperol Spritz; at the end of the promenade, the curvy Ricciotti-designed Jean Cocteau Museum glitters in the sun like a white diamond. After a wander through the city’s subtropical gardens and emblematic lemon groves, book lunch at three-Michelin-star Mirazur , where chef Mauro Colagreco dishes up pure poetry on a plate.

MEGEVE, THE ALPS

Once a sleepy agricultural tannery town, this exclusive sunlit resort, launched by Baroness Noémie de Rothschild to rival Saint Moritz a century ago, still draws an affluent crowd who come for a fix of old-fashioned charm. Surrounded by majestic peaks and views of Mont Blanc, Megève’s storybook atmosphere – snow-covered pines, jingling horse-drawn carriages, an illuminated cobblestone main square – is also a joy in summer, when the hiking trails are dotted with wildflowers. Book a stay at Les Fermes de Marie , the town’s uber-stylish 70-room hamlet of Alpine farmhouses, and get slathered with edelweiss-derived beauty products at its Pure Altitude Spa.

ARLES, PROVENCE

Whether you’re wandering on the banks of the Rhone or through the medieval historic centre past the colossal Roman arena, there’s a certain village-like douceur de vivre about Arles that makes it unique. Ancient history and lots of nods to Van Gogh’s time painting here intermingle with a recent upsurge of contemporary artistic effervescence, starting with the ambitious Luma arts complex, featuring the city’s future cultural hub – the Gehry-designed steel-panelled tower shimmering against a blue sky, slated to open in 2021. Just beyond are the wetlands and pink salt flats of the Camargue , a bird-filled sanctuary where wild white horses also roam. Stay at L’Arlatan , a former 15th-century palace transformed into a jewel of eye-popping colours by Cuban-American artist Jorge Pardo.

LES ÎLES D'OR, PORQUEROLLES AND PORT-CROS, LE VAR

Less than a dozen kilometres by boat from the Riviera mainland near Hyères, these two government-protected slabs of rock – a mini-paradise of craggy cliffs, clear shallows, powdery beaches and eucalyptus-shaded paths – will quickly strip you of your ordinary routine. Among endless recreational pleasures of island life (everything from hike-or-bike paths through vineyards and underwater parks teeming with rare marine life), visit the recently opened Carmignac Foundation , a contemporary art museum on a wine estate, lost in the pines.

BORDEAUX, LA GIRONDE

With more than 350 UNESCO-listed monuments – a mix of medieval, Renaissance and 18th-century treasures – Bordeaux exults in its status as the world’s largest urban World Heritage Site, but there’s far more to the city than alluring classic architecture. Stroll through the recently revitalised Bassins à Flot district – a long stretch of docklands transformed into tree-shaded walkways lined with riverside restaurants, then visit the city’s contemporary Wine and Trade Museum, a stunning showcase for the region’s exceptional grapes. On the landmark Place de la Comédie, grab a bite at the Quatrième Mur , a buzzing old-world-style brasserie flush with the Opera House, helmed by celebrity chef Philippe Etchebest, serving tasty regional specialities from black truffles to duck and mashed potato pie.

LE CAP CORSE, CORSICA

Less than an hour’s drive away from the bustling seaport of Bastia, this wild peninsula of tiny fishing villages, Genoese towers and dunes of soft sand is a small miracle of seaside splendour that continues to avoid over-development. Head to the tip of the finger at Macinaggio and take the coastal footpath that winds around the cliffs. Sheep and cows graze in a grassy meadow, just behind the inlets of emerald and aquamarine sea; the rolling maquis-covered hillsides are a fragrant fête of wildflowers, rosemary, myrtle and thyme. Stay at the recently opened Misincu in Porticciolo, Cap Corse’s first smart eco-friendly retreat.

Charley Ward

CNT Editors

Alessia Armenise

Olivia Morelli

PARC DES VOLCANES, AUVERGNE

If you’re a hang-gliding enthusiast, floating over Auvergne’s Chaîne des Puys, Europe's largest chain of extinct volcanoes, is one way to visit this spectacular park. But you can also glimpse a partial view of these 80 symmetrical cones by driving or hiking through the neighbouring countryside. Here, in the heart of France’s rural zone of undulating valleys, verdant forests and grassy pastures dotted with grazing cows, there are few distractions, save the farmers’ markets – a cornucopia of home-cured sausages and regional cheeses. For hearty local comfort food, head to the Hôtel Bel Horizon in Vic-sur-Cère and order pounti , a prune and bacon terrine, and truffade , a potato pancake cooked in duck fat and topped with fresh Cantal.

RAMATUELLE, LE VAR

Only a few kilometres from the sandy stretch of Pampelonne beaches and verdant vineyards, this discreet fortified hilltop village – a former Saracen stronghold of tiny flower-lined alleyways and pastel-shuttered façades – is the bling-free flip side of Saint-Tropez . In high season, expect a linen-clad second-home crowd strolling around the snail-shaped circular maze of boutiques or sipping espresso at the family-run Café de l’Ormeau in the leafy square. On Thursday and Sunday mornings, the Provençal market takes over with an array of goat’s cheeses, olives, fragrant soaps and local crafts. Hop down to beachside haunt Chez Camille for the real deal in bouillabaisse.

CASSIS, PROVENCE

It’s no mystery why Dufy, Derain and even Churchill felt compelled to paint Cassis’s miniature port – a curve of pink, yellow ochre and eggshell-blue houses and wooden fishing boats. But the allure of this unique gentrification-resistant village doesn’t stop there. Aside from the pure joy of slurping down fresh sea urchins with local wine at the harbourside restaurants, you can stroll along the dazzling coastal limestone cliffs – les calanques – that lead to turquoise water, or unfurl your towel on the pebbly Plage du Bestouan. Stay at on-the-water Les Roches Blanches , a gem facing the glinting gold Cap Canaille.

CHATEAU DE CHENONCEAU, THE LOIRE VALLEY

Among France’s most emblematic beauties in Renaissance architecture, this imposing castle spanning the Cher River has an illustrious history of women, who played a leading role in its restoration. Built in 1513 by Thomas Bohier and his wife, Katherine Briçonnet, it was later embellished by both Diane de Poitier and Catherine de' Medici, whose tasteful artistry included the construction of an Italian maze of 2,000 yew trees. Highlights also include fragrant rose gardens and an impressive collection of tapestries, furniture and paintings by great classical Baroque masters from Rubens to Poussin.

SAINT-JEAN-DE-LUZ, BASQUE COUNTRY

There’s nothing trendy about this seawater spa town, where the simple pleasures range from detoxing with an algae wrap to body surfing in the waves, just six miles from the Spanish border . Order a steaming bowl of homemade fish soup at the harbour lined with red and white half-timbered houses, then explore the pedestrianised backstreets and stock up on local espadrilles and pastel-striped linens. The town’s must-see showstopper: Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste, the stained-glass 14th-century church where Louis XIV married Marie-Thérèse of Austria in 1660. Stay at the splendid Grand Hôtel Thalasso & Spa , a pink and white Belle Epoque confection overlooking the Atlantic.

MONT SAINT-MICHEL, NORMANDY

It comes as no surprise that this granite mini-island, crowned with a gothic-style Benedictine abbey, draws an overwhelming crush of awestruck tourists, but never mind. People return in droves for a reason: this medieval UNESCO World Heritage Site remains a timeless jewel that changes constantly with the weather, season and time of day. The island is encircled by sand and salt marshes, and the high tide may rush in ‘as fast as a galloping horse’, as Victor Hugo famously wrote, so plan to stay a while. Dine at the celebrated auberge La Mère Poulard , a 19th-century institution where you’ll see writers, film stars and heads of state tucking into the restaurant’s unctuous fluffy omelettes.

GRANDS CRUS WINE TRAIL, ALSACE

This bucolic 170km stretch takes you past rolling vineyards and through more than 100 storybook villages with brightly coloured Alsatian half-timber houses and scores of ancient wine-tasting cellars where you can sniff and swirl aromatic Pinot Blanc and chat with the local vignerons . If you don’t fancy learning about Sylvaner, Riesling or Gewürztraminer grapes, the dreamy countryside will conquer the heart of even the most jaded teetotaller. Don’t miss a stop in Eguisheim, a hamlet near Colmar with cobblestone lanes and gingerbread houses, where storks nest on rooftops and flowers hang over every carved window frame. Best bet: the family-run Maison Emile Beyer excels in luscious rare grands crus.

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The 26 Most Beautiful Places in France

By Caitlin Morton

From the lavender fields of Provence to the art nouveau buildings of Paris , the most beautiful places in France are as diverse as they are alluring. The country has its fair share of cosmopolitan cities and charming small towns , of course—some of which date as far back as the 9th century—but it also has white-sand beaches, mighty canyons, and snow-capped mountains galore.

Whether you’re drawn to the azure waters of the French Riviera , the dramatic cliffs of Normandy, or the enchanting châteaux of the Loire Valley, this list of the most beautiful places in France is sure to inspire your next storybook adventure.

This article was originally published in 2016. It has been updated with new information.

Lac D’Annecy

Fed by alpine streams and a deep water spring near the town of Annecy, Lac D’Annecy—roughly 30 miles from the Swiss city of Geneva —is among Europe’s most pristine secret lakes . The site is ideal for hiking and swimming, even though the water barely pushes the 75-degree mark at the height of summer. Just one more excuse to warm up with a traditional French Alpine meal come dinnertime.

Located about an hour west of Geneva, the third-largest city in France should move up a few notches on your list. Lyon is known for its innovative restaurants (try La Bijouterie for French dim sum) as well as its beautiful, UNESCO-listed neighborhoods and Old Town—filled with boutique hotels, riverside markets, and hilltop cathedrals.

Hôtel Le Coucou Méribel

This family-friendly hotel in the Alps puts a playful spin on the traditional ski chalet concept—think polka-dot carpets, furniture legs shaped like ski poles, and frescoed ceilings depicting owls in the treetops. Throw in an exceptionally good ski-in ski-out location in the Trois-Vallées estate, and you have yourself one of the coolest accommodations in France.

A renowned summer getaway for royals and celebrities alike (you might remember it from Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises ), the beaches of Biarritz , in Basque country along the Bay of Biscay, are not only gorgeous—they’re also hugely popular with surfers thanks to their mellow, safe-for-beginners waves.

Jessica Puckett

Caitlin Morton

Olivia Morelli

The Camargue

The Camargue, a marshy delta between the Mediterranean and the two branches of the Rhône, feels like another continent. Visitors can take Jeep tours deep into the wilderness punctuated with briny ponds, red salt flats, and wind-whipped reeds and grasses. You’ll also see the Camargue’s trademark free-roaming white horses and some of its 400 bird species—if you’re lucky, you might even spot some flamingos.

Gardens of Marqueyssac

The famous Gardens of Marqueyssac make up one of the most stunning landscapes in France—and the world. The 150,000 bubbly boxwood trees and hedges wrap around a 17th-century chateau that overlooks the Dordogne Valley. The entire vista looks like an illustration from a Perrault fairytale.

Yep, the whole darn city. There’s a reason the word flâneur can’t be translated perfectly into English—the idea of a long, aimless stroll taken simply to soak up the scenery seems utterly French. And in Paris , there’s always something to stroll past. Walk the Promenade Plantee, considered the world’s first elevated park , stock up on cheese and wine for a picnic in Luxembourg Gardens, and end the day watching the sunset behind the Eiffel Tower .

Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc

Some hotels are so shrouded in legend that they are worth planning an entire trip around. Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc is one of those places. This Belle Époque landmark really needs no introduction, but we never pass up an opportunity to swoon over its seaside location, Dior spa, and bedside vases overfilled with roses from the garden.

Burgundy is home to some of France’s loveliest landscapes, from rolling green vineyards to forested national parks. Take a road trip through the region to get nonstop views of the countryside—with plenty of winery pit stops along the way.

Gordes is easily one of the most charming towns in all of France. The elevated location makes it one of the best places in Provence to watch the sunset, and it also happens to be an excellent home base for seeking out lavender fields during the summer months.

Canal du Midi

Canal du Midi is a tree-lined, 150-mile-long waterway running from the city of Toulouse down to the Mediterranean. While you can certainly admire the canal’s beauty from the shores, we recommend taking in the views from the polished teak deck of a river barge . You can’t do much better than Les Bateaux Belmond , a series of cruises exploring France’s waterways—complete with heated pools and king-sized beds.

The roof of western Europe is the birthplace of alpinism and home to one of today’s most vibrant mountain sports communities, so it’s a given that Mont Blanc and its subsidiary peaks needn’t bow to any mountains, anywhere. Its needle-like, Gothically-drawn skyline is the kind that inspires poets and painters.

Les Calanques National Park, Marseilles

Les Calanques are long, rocky inlets that resemble Norwegian fjords and jut out into the ocean between Cassis and Marseille—and trust us when we say the water here is some of the bluest you’ll ever see. Take a motorboat tour to get some of the best views, but be sure you head back to the mainland in time for a perfect seafood lunch.

Château de Chenonceau

The entire Loire Valley is a treasure trove of beautiful castles , but Château de Chenonceau easily rises to the top of the pack—both in terms of beauty and popularity. The current château was built on top of an old mill starting in 1514, while the trademark bridge and gallery were added about 60 years later. Today, the river-spanning structure and surrounding gardens are one of the most-visited attractions in the entire country.

Champagne-Ardenne

As its name suggests, Champagne-Ardenne is the birthplace of bubbly and one of the most beautiful regions in France. The area is covered with idyllic valleys and vineyards, of course, but also ancient castles, chateaus, and abbeys. Make sure to visit the capital city of Troyes for splendid churches from the Middle Ages, and Reims for underground wine cellars and the masterpiece Cathédrale Notre-Dame .

Palace of Versailles

An enduring symbol of the pinnacle of luxury, Louis XIV’s 18th-century residence is one of the most impressive combined displays of art, architecture, interior design, and landscaping in the world. Don’t miss the queen’s bedchambers, a masterpiece of over-the-top-ness; the legendary Hall of Mirrors, still used by the French government today to receive heads of state; or the three square miles of perfectly manicured gardens.

Château de Fontainebleau

This sprawling château was reportedly the preferred residence of Napoleon, and honestly? We get it. With its whopping 1,900 rooms and sprawling gardens—not to mention its stately facade— Château de Fontainebleau is easily one of the most beautiful places in France. (Bonus: It’s less than an hour away from Paris by train.)

Cliffs of Étretat, Normandy

Located along France’s Alabaster Coast, the pebble beach of Étretat is popular among sailors and surfers. But most visitors come to this stretch of coast in Upper Normandy for one reason: the famous chalk cliffs and arched rock formations. At various points along Étretat’s 80-mile stretch, you’ll find natural sculptures that have inspired travelers and artists (most notably Claude Monet ) for ages.

Sénanque Abbey

The seemingly endless stretches of lavender make Provence one of the prettiest (and best-smelling) places in France. One of the most scenic spots to enjoy the flower fields is Sénanque Abbey, a 12th-century church near the village of Gordes. The gentle heather-gray color of the abbey looks custom-made for its surroundings, particularly in June and July when the acres around it bloom into a sea of purple.

Strasbourg Cathedral

Strasbourg’s Gothic cathedral is sometimes known as “The Pink Cathedral” for its trademark color, which comes from the reddish sandstone used to build it. Although the original plans called for a pair of spires on top of the church, only one was built, giving the building a unique, somewhat mysterious look.

Walt Disney would surely approve of Colmar , with its timber-framed houses, colorful facades, and flower-lined canal. The commune is a delight to take in, whether it’s strolling the cobblestoned streets or taking a canoe trip down the water. Along with Kayersberg and Strasbourg, this provincial town is a trademark of the beautiful and charming Alsace region, located in northeastern France near Germany and Switzerland.

Mont Saint-Michel

Rising up from vast sandbanks and powerful tides, the rocky island of Mont Saint-Michel gives off an otherworldly appearance in its position off France’s northwestern coast in Normandy. A small medieval village, complete with winding streets and tiny houses, sits on the island, but the crown jewel is undoubtedly the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel. The incredible structure was built in 708 A.D. and was the inspiration behind the castle in Disney's Tangled.

Gorges du Verdon

Gorge du Verdon is often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of France.” And although it might be smaller than its American counterpart, it certainly doesn’t fall short in terms of beauty. The 2,300-foot-deep valley was formed by the Alpine Verdon River, a dazzling turquoise stream that flows into the artificial Lac de Sainte-Croix. Hiking and horseback riding trails weave throughout the vertical limestone cliffs, connecting tiny villages and offering once-in-a-lifetime views.

The town of Menton has all the beauty of the Côte d’Azur ’s better-known coastal cities (see: Marseille, Nice ), but a fraction of the crowds. With over 316 days of sunshine a year, exceptional gardens, boutique-filled alleyways, and quality Italian cuisine due to its position on the Franco-Italian border, it’s an ideal spot for a day trip.

Giverny is a small village on the border of Normandy most famous for being the site of Claude Monet’s cherished riverside house and garden, both of which are open to the public today. The pastel pink house is pretty as a picture, with spring green shutters and ivy crawling up every surface. And the gardens are like an impressionist painting come to life, with water lilies, weeping willows, wisterias, and the famous green Japanese bridge.

Auvergne Volcanoes

One of Europe’s largest regional parks (it’s roughly the size of Rhode Island), the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Park consists of a cluster of around 80 dormant volcanoes. Take the cable car up to Puy de Sancy, the highest mountain in the park, for an easy (but still breathtaking) 2.5-mile ridge hike.

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The 16 best places to visit in France

From buzzing cities to gorgeous countryside escapes, these are the essential places in France to visit at least once in your life

France   is one of the most visited places on the planet – and you better believe that it lives up to every bit of the hype. This famous country has been at the cultural heart of western Europe for millennia, and you can see signs of its complex and fascinating past all over the place. But it’s not all   grand old châteaux : France is also blessed with some exceptionally beautiful natural wonders   and   some of Europe’s coolest city-break destinations .

So, from heavenly beach destinations and   picturesque rural villages   to grand old cities like   Paris ,   Lyon   and   Marseille , these are the best places to visit in France – and some of the world’s most essential destinations.

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📍 The best   things to do in France 🌳 The prettiest   villages in France 🏖 The best   beaches in France 🏰 Spectacular  French châteaux you can rent 😋 The best   restaurants in France 🌊  The best places to stay on the French Riviera

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Best places to visit in France

Where do you start with a city like Paris? The French capital is one of the great global cities, as renowned for its world-class museums, magnificent grub and lavish shopping options as it is for its mere vibe . From the Louvre to the Jardin de Luxembourg, the place oozes history, beauty and, yes, romance. There is, quite plainly, nowhere quite like it.

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The port city of Marseille has been one great big melting pot of cultures ever since it was founded by the Greeks a whopping 2,600 years ago. Having thrown off its rep as a town of sailors and gangsters, these days Marseille is a dazzlingly multicultural city with galleries and rooftop bars galore – and all within easy reach of marvellous spectacles of nature in the form of calanques and coves. 

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📍 The best things to do in Marseille 😋 The best restaurants in Marseille 🥾 The essential guide to Marseille’s calanques 🚤 The best boat trips from Marseille

Nice by name, nice by... alright, that’s a bit too cheesy. But it’s true. With its lavish beachside promenade, throngs of established museums and hearty wine bars, Nice is a rather exceptionally lovely coastal city. It’s the former residence of Henri Matisse, with an entire museum dedicated to the legendary artist – and with skies this vibrant, it’s not hard to see where he found the inspiration for his bold blues.

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Lyonnais are known for being particularly proud of their city – and they’ve every right to be. This place is a gastronomic wonderland and (disputedly, we admit) France’s food capital, with each of its Michelin-starred abodes matched by dozens of under-the-radar culinary masters. And with its Unesco-protected city centre, Rhône and Saône river views and its history as a silk centre, Lyon has loads of non-foodie stuff to do, too.

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Not just the greatest winemaking hub in the world, Bordeaux is also a full-blown dream of a city: packed with characterful medieval architecture, a top-tier dining scene and sprawling green open spaces, and within touching distance of some of the mightiest (and warmest) beaches on France’s Atlantic coast. Even teetotallers will find a shedload to do here.

Nîmes, Arles and Orange

For history buffs, there are few regions of France more worth a week’s visit than the lower reaches of the River Rhône. Impressively preserved Roman amphitheatres, arches, temples and baths draw as many visitors to the cities of Nîmes, Arles and Orange as the laidback lifestyle, local wines and year-round sunshine. But the highlight is the spectacular Pont du Gard: the 2,100-year-old three-tiered aqueduct that straddles the Gardon river. It’s one of the most impressive Roman monuments surviving anywhere – Rome included.

French Riviera

Stretching for more than 100 miles along France’s southeastern coast, the Riviera is best appreciated as a whole: as a series of delightful places rather than any one in particular. From perfume capital Grasse and rocky Èze to legendarily-glitzy Saint-Tropez and film-tastic Cannes, the Côte d'Azur is everything it claims to be and more.

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Inland from the bustle of the Riviera, the vast and ancient rural region of Provence is the place for a slower pace of life. If you don’t like the smell of lavender, best avoid the Valensole plateau, with its fields of purple stretching into the distance – 300 square miles’ worth of the fragrant stuff. We recommend renting a mountain bike and cycling the yellow dirt paths, with a charming stopover in a village such as Riez or Esparron-de-Verdon. Not far away, the gravity-defying limestone flanks and dazzling turquoise-green waters of the Gorges du Verdon draw hikers, swimmers and kayakers from far and wide.

Named after the river that runs through it, the Dordogne region is almost surreally picturesque. Vines as far as the eye can see, endless rolling hills, impossibly pretty hamlets… from the seventeenth-century Chateau de Marqueyssac and its hypnotic gardens to the oak forests of the Périgord noir, it’s so beautiful it can feel like the stuff of dreams.

On the Upper Rhine plain between France and Germany, Alsace has changed hands several times. Start in regional capital Strasbourg for a taste of Alsace’s culture, architecture and food – a distinctive blend of French and German – then  head to half-timbered Colmar for shades of Disney’s ‘Beauty and the Beast’ (plus  one of Europe’s best Christmas markets ). And whatever you do, stop off at  the twelfth-century Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg: an epic complex with views all the way to the Black Forest.

Lake Annecy

Bordered by snow-capped mountains in the Haute-Savoie region, Annecy is known as ‘Europe’s cleanest lake’ thanks to strict local environmental regulations. It’s also very beautiful. The third-largest lake within France’s borders, its ten square miles draw bathers, sailors, divers and sunbathers alike to its grassy ‘beaches’ in summer. Rich with flora and fauna, the area’s hills are ideal for hiking, and the town of Annecy itself brims with brilliant restaurants, delis and canals.

Canal du Midi

Connecting the Garonne river at Toulouse with the Étang de Thau basin on the Mediterranean, the 150-mile-long Midi makes for the dreamiest of waterside cycle adventures in summer. Built under the patronage of Louis XIV’s first minister Colbert in the seventeenth century, it is now connected to the Canal de Garonne, and together the two canals allow for barges to travel from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. For the full canal experience, you should rent one. A barge, that is, not a canal.

Loire Valley

Two things make a trip here essential: castles and wine. The Loire is France’s longest river, and the stretch between Orléans and Angers is home to more than 300 grand châteaux dating back to the age when France had kings, as well as 185,000 acres of vineyards. Follow the river past woods and fields and through the medieval towns of Blois, Amboise and Saumur – each crowned by an unmissable royal castle. And don’t miss a chance to sample the local specialities: white wine, rillettes, goat’s cheese and Chambord – the latter named after one of the province’s most spectacular châteaux.

French Basque Country

Although most of the historic Basque Country lies over the border in modern-day Spain, the French part is well worth a visit – especially if you’re partial to a gnarly surf trip. A classy bathing retreat since the nineteenth century, Biarritz became the home of European surfing in the ’50s, with the Atlantic regularly chucking ten-metre waves up its  Grande Plage.  Once you’ve dried off, refuel with a plate of the signature cured ham from Bayonne, just up the road. And further down the coast, the beach towns of St Jean-de-Luz and Hendaye have miles of golden sand and eye-popping summer sunsets over the ocean.

With its sweeping cliffs and capes and proud Celtic heritage, France’s rugged northwest region— aka ‘Little Britain’ — is rightly likened to Cornwall. The coastline gets top billing, from the romantic Pink Granite Coast via quaint fishing villages to walkers’ magnet the Crozon peninsula. History fans should make for Carnac, Brittany’s Stonehenge, while gourmands will love plundering the local larder: crêpes, savoury galettes, and seafood, with France’s oyster capital, Cancale, just east of the picture-perfect walled town of Saint-Malo.

Normandy’s stirring white-chalk cliffs – from picturesque port Honfleur to chic weekend getaway Étretat – gave birth to no less than the entire art movement of Impressionism. New bike route  La Seine à Vélo  reunites many of the area’s joys, especially at Monet’s home and lilypad-lined gardens at Giverny, before taking in Rouen (tied to Joan of Arc lore) and seaside Deauville. Keep on coasting for three more musts: the D-Day landing sites, Bayeux’s famously ornate tapestry, and ‘Wonder of the West’ the Mont-Saint-Michel, an island topped by a gravity-defying abbey.

Discover more in Europe

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I conic cities, gorgeous towns and villages, incredible islands and all the rest

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From Athens to the islands, there’s so much to fall in love with here

The best places to visit in Spain

Sure, the beaches and big cities are incredible – but there’s much, much more to Spain

The best places to visit in France

It’s one of the most visited places on the planet, but France always lives up to the hype

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17 Best Places to Visit in France

The allure of France lingers in the consciousness of all travelers. Across the six corners of the l’Hexagone are a little something for everyone. It starts in Paris, a place that was so loved it became cool not to love it.

As you expound further, say hello to the bucolic countryside of Alsace, the castles of the Loire Valley, the luxuriation of the French Riviera, and finally, take a deep breath. In the French Alps.

It can be difficult to do it all in one go, but each time you visit, you’ll discover something different. Whether that be a new era of history, such as ancient Greek ports, Roman Catholicism, the Middle Ages or the Renaissance.

Map of France

Maybe it’s treating yourself to Cote d’Azur and Saint Tropez. Or maybe you head into the mountains for an entirely different adventure. There are always new places to visit in France and exciting attractions to discover. They say you can’t have it all. But in France, maybe you can.

17. Avignon

Once the center of Roman Catholicism, this short-lived stint evolved into the culturally rich town we see today. The Pope may be long gone, but the array of canonical architecture remains.

At the heart of this is the Palais des Papes, which is part striking fortress and part palace. It’s the biggest Gothic palace in history and was meant to showcase the might of the Roman Catholic Church in the years after its departure from Rome. Three-meter thick walls enveloped the palace and protected her vast halls, cavernous antechambers and eloquent chapels.

Beyond the palace, Avignon boasts mansions from the Renaissance and features a renowned annual theater festival. With the Rhone River meandering through, you’ll find a vibrant waterfront and wine from nearby vineyards.

16. Marseille

One of Europe’s oldest cities and France’s second largest city, Marseille is a major Mediterranean seaport located off the southeast coast of France. Once a prominent Greek harbor, there remains a classic edginess to the city. But it’s evolved into a much richer, interesting culture.

Today, creativity runs through the city and can be seen in its live music, arts and cutting-edge museums. The same can be said of its progressive food scene.

At the core of Marseille is its old port, Vieux Port. Dominated by two historic forts, this bustling harbor is lined with waterfront cafes, shops and bars. At the end of the harbor is the Quai des Belges where visitors can view luxury yachts, ferry boats and fishermen auctioning off their catch at the daily fish market.

One of Marseille’s best natural attractions, the Calanques are a series of small inlets with astonishing blue water and majestic limestone cliffs. Other must-sees include Fort St-Jean, Le Panier, MuCEM and the Basilique Notre Dame de Garde.

With some necessary exploration finished, head offshore to Chateau d’If, which was Immortalized by The Count of Monte Cristo. Finish up with a brilliant sunset while noshing on bouillabaisse.

15. Versailles

Second to the Eiffel Tower, Versailles is the most popular landmark in France. Some 15 million arrive every year to experience this decadent symbol of power and history. Here’s the thing about traveling, sometimes you’re gonna have to deal with crowds.

And deal you will, as Versailles is well worth the time and effort. The palace dates back to the late 17th century, beginning life as a luxurious lodge for the monarchs in power. However, it was Louis XIV who moved the court and influence away from Paris to Versailles as tensions blossomed across France.

Today, with your pre-purchased ticket (avoid those lines, folks!) you can explore the gorgeous manicured grounds, the Trianon Estate and Queen’s Hamlet. However, it’s the 2,300 room Main Palace, home to the Hall of Mirrors and the King’s Apartments that makes a visit well worth it.

14. Gorges du Verdon

Calling the Gorges du Verdon “the Grand Canyon of France” seems like a stretch. And it is. But the canyon still belongs on your France itinerary. Gorges du Verdon descends 700 meters at a rapid rate towards the Verdon River with its rushing blue water carving it ever deeper.

It’s the largest canyon on the continent and its 25 kilometers of length creates an abundance of thrilling watersports and adventures. You can cruise the length of the canyon, marveling at the towering limestone cliffs. If this sounds too relaxing, then just switch the boat for a raft and ride the whitewater rapids.

For some of the best views, however, you’ll have to get about on foot…or even horseback. There are around 100 kilometers of trails that course along either side of the canyon, with endless viewpoints throughout.

Located in east-central France, Lyon is the capital of the Rhone department. It is the place to stop and splurge on the good things in life. Once you’ve blown your budget at the bouchons Lyonnais (traditional bistros), you’ll still find much to do.

Top of this list should be a jaunt along the paths that snake through the Parc des Hauters. These lead you to the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourviere. Both the city and the Alps combine for an epic view.

Lyon also has several interesting neighborhoods to explore. For example, Presqu’île is the heart of the city with its restaurants, bars and clubs while Croix-Rousse is known for its hundreds of hidden passageways known as traboules. Eventually you’ll end up in Vieux Lyon, the historic center featuring narrow, cobblestone streets, Renaissance architecture and landmarks like St. Jean Cathedral with its astronomical clock.

In the summer months, get in quick for a concert at the Theatre Romain. The original foundation goes back to 15BC when Lyon was all but a small Roman settlement. Continue the arts theme by discovering some of Lyon’s 100+ outdoor murals.

While Lyon frequently illuminates its major monuments year-round, the Festival of Lights is an annual event with various celebrations of candle lightings and professional sound-and-light shows.

12. Normandy

Along the northwest coast of France, Normandy is synonymous with modern history. The coast’s lengthy beaches have become famous thanks to D-Day. And while the rugged coast harbors rich WWII history, it’s just the beginning.

Beyond the vast shores is a region steeped in literary history. There’s the bucolic countryside that features not one but four protected cheese origins. But better than them all is Mont St-Michel, which stands along like a mesmerizing iceberg off the coast.

Lovers of cheese can’t pass up a cheese tour of Normandy. This will take you to the towns of Camembert, Livarot, Pont l’Eveque and Neufchatel. Beyond their tasty creations lie charming towns that evoke welcome authenticity.

Speaking of memorable towns, be sure to stop by Barneville-Carteret from DIY shucked oysters or Honfleur. The latter is laden by half-timbered homes and marks the end of the Seine.

11. Corsica

In the French Mediterranean, the island of Corsica embraces its surrounds. Enveloped with sparkling emerald water, Corsica has as much Italian influence as it does French.

Known as the Island of Beauty, Corsica takes the best of both and boasts coastal towns backed by serene forests and granite mountain tops. It’s no small, dainty island either. There are over 1,000 kilometers of coastline to explore and plenty of chances to get away from it all.

Along these coastlines are turquoise waters that harbor beautiful underwater worlds. Chances to snorkel and even scuba dive are ever present. Days spent swimming are rewarded by captivating sunsets in Bastia where you’ll also find a great collection of restaurants and taverns.

The next day you can mix it up by trekking into the forests and mountains that are affixed with snow in the colder months.

10. Bordeaux

Some great wine regions have made it into our list. But Bordeaux can lay claim to being the best of them. As the country’s wine capital, there is an air of elegance to Bordeaux. This is elevated by the cocktail of 18th century architecture.

Cutting through the center of town are the streets of Place du Parlemant and Saint-Pierre. High culture mingles on these streets that are lined by chic cafes and outdoor seating to bathe under the sun.

Before you venture and experience some of the area’s best vineyards, explore the La Cite du Vin. This museum showcased the history of wine from around Bordeaux and is set in a captivating building. To get there, take a leisurely stroll down the River Garonne.

Now you’re all set to try the local tipple. Some of Bordeaux’s best wineries surround elegant chateaus that make for the perfect wine tasting spot.

9. Lake Annecy

Chamonix may garner the most attention, but we believe the best of the French Alps lies surrounding the beautiful Lake Annecy. One of the largest lakes in Europe, it can also lay claim to being the cleanest thanks to its pristine high alpine surrounds.

In the summer months, Lake Annecy is a dreamy destination. The sapphire-hued jewel sits enveloped in lush green mountains with the odd dash of granite. As the sun bounces along the lake the azure waters become even more obvious and call you in for a dip.

Such is its size, you can do more than swim. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular and you’ll see several boats making use of the conditions to sail around.

The views of the water are matched by the surrounding mountains including the snowy peaks of Tournette Mountain. Any visit here should also take in the old town of Annecy , which is a picture-perfect alpine village.

8. Carcassonne

The walled city of Carcassonne sits atop a hill on the banks of the Aude River. The original fortifications date back to Roman occupation in 100 BC, although much has changed since then.

With surrounding threats long gone, you can make your way into the medieval city. The often steep walk requires a break for breath but it’s immediately rewarded once you step beyond the turreted towers that adorn the walls and over the drawbridge.

On the other side of Narbonne Gate, you’ll find the old city is a scene straight from a Disney fairy tale. Cobbled streets guide you along the fortified walls where you’re half expecting a soldier from the Middle Ages to stop you in your tracks.

Along your journey back in time, you’ll cross paths with the Chateau Comtal from the 12th century, adorned with cathedrals and even access a subterranean dungeon.

7. Loire Valley

Teaming with castles, medieval villages and endless vineyards, the Loire Valley is the personification of art de vivre. Rolling effortlessly through the valley is the Loire River, the last remaining wild river in Europe.

It all combines into an area that is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The landscape alive with the life source of the river creates head-turning scenery. Something that’s only matched by the local culture and one so steeped in history.

At the center of this is the Chateau de Chenonceau. The 16th century masterpiece features the Grande Galerie, which spans 60 meters across the Cher River. In the winter and autumn, the sun sets in the perfect spot, reflecting the dwindling light across the water. Other famous chateaux include Chambord, Rivau and Chinon.

But it’s the Loire River that connects it all. You can cycle along it for over 500km going from town to town, or you can simply do a bite-sized chunk. Either way, with destinations like Angers, Amboise and Nantes, there’s no losing.

Auburn sandstone cottages with terracotta rooftops adorn the hilltop towns around Luberon. They rise and fall along the rolling hills and are the only interruptions to fields of pine and symmetric vineyards.

Luberon is a collection of hilltop villages that run through the Provence from east to west. Cavaillon and Manosque are the region’s bookends and along with harboring the aforementioned beauty, it’s the slow pace of life that you’ll love just as much.

The agrarian region remains tied in with its traditional roots. There’s no rush here, with plenty of time to enjoy the region’s fine wine and even tastier food. It’s no wonder the markets held weekly through Luberon have you salivating upon entrance.

Beyond the townships, you can get to know the countryside on foot by exploring the Cedar Forest near Bonnieux. The overarching trees provide relief from the summer heat and lead to captivating views of the hilltop towns.

Jumping between the banners of France and Germany, the Alsace Region is distinct from the rest of the country. The dual influence has marked the region with an old-world charm and harmonious countryside that just can’t be replicated.

Germany’s influence is seen in both its cuisine and architecture. The villages throughout Alsace are renowned for their half-timbered homes and striking Gothic churches. The capital Strasbourg is no exception with beautiful homes found in both La Petite France and Grande Ile neighborhoods.

Taking the Alsace Wine Route, you’ll drive through 170 kilometers of bucolic countryside where every stop features a delightful village and yes, great food and wine. Highlights of the route include Colmar . This town encapsulates all that is good here in the Alsace Region. The surrounding hills make the rest of the world feel far away.

You can look forward to half-timbered homes and balconies draped with flowers. Vineyards flow over the hillside like blankets and the Rhine River is the cherry on top of a fairy tale village.

4. Chamonix

In the shadows of Mont Blanc, Chamonix has long inspired mountain lovers and fans of chalets alike. One of France’s oldest alpine resorts, the splendor of its scenery, is matched by the oft-bougie mountain culture.

Epic skiing, mountaineering and the odd marathon fill the outdoor calendar in Chamonix. Such are the epic mountains, you can ski and board here year round. While at the La Vallee Blanche glacier, you can ski uninterrupted for over 20 kilometers.

But you’ll find just as much to do here if these thrills don’t quite pique your interest. The area’s year-round community and the delight of Chamonix Town ensure there’s much to do off-piste. Cafes line the pedestrianized main street and the picturesque village will have you reaching often for your camera.

After a day of adventure, you can partake in the après-ski of your fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Live music flows through the surrounding streets, leading to dancing and a few too many cocktails.

3. Dordogne

In southwestern France, the Dordogne region is incredibly enticing thanks to its array of undulating landscapes, tranquil villages and medieval bastides. It’s a place to discover some of the best of France’s countryside, both the towns and nature.

The Dordogne River courses through the region and is the source of much of its lush nature. Come the summer, the cool waters of the river welcome kayakers, swimmers and those who dabble in fishing. You’ll also spot plenty lining the riverbank basking in the sun. Away from the river, the rolling hills attract hikers and mountain bikers. There are towering craggy cliffs that bring the chalky hands of climbers.

For a more relaxed pace, you can bounce between the idyllic villages, such as La Roque-Gageac. This town features a collection of sandstone homes surrounded by palms at the base of a rising cliff. Then there’s the 13th century settlement of Domme.

The bastide village has an archway entrance and a vibrant old town with artisan shops and restaurants set within medieval buildings.

2. French Riviera

Encompassing a splendid stretch of the Mediterranean, the French Riviera (Cote d’ Azur) is an opulent escape. In southern France, this region is soaked in sun most of the year. This exacerbates the color of the azure waters to heavenly status.

You’ll find a handful of enchanting towns along this coast from Saint-Tropez to Menton. These hug the coast with glee, forming a waterfront destination that has been drawing travelers since the 1800s.

Although the Riviera is famous for the glamour of St. Tropez, Monaco or the Cannes Film Festival , there are many other less well known destinations, such as the perched villages of Eze and Saint-Paul de Vence , and the perfumeries of Grasse to name a few. The Riviera has been the inspiration for many well-known artists such as Picasso and many of their works are on display in local museums and art galleries.

And then there’s Nice . Arguably the best of the lot. There’s something for everyone, from the region’s patented beachfront to plenty of history. As you discover Nice, you’ll have the pleasure of doing so along her cobbled streets and tree-flanked avenues. There are art galleries and museums and southern French cuisine for a flavor explosion in your mouth.

There may be no destination on earth that tops bucket lists as much as Paris . Yes, you’ll find the crowds here. But it’s a city that has stood the test of time. If anything, it’s made it all the more romantic.

The grandiose city, home to the Eiffel Tower and the Notre Dame Cathedral, still sparks the heart of even the most stoic traveler. It’s a place of rich heritage, one that’s written on the facades of buildings throughout the inner city.

There are museums to discover , even beyond the Louvre. Such as the Musee de l’Orangerie and the Musee d’Orsay. What’s more, Paris boasts magnificent gardens such as the Luxembourg Gardens. But it’s the people, the living culture that is most captivating. Any aimless wander down the Champs-Élysées, the Latin Quarter or the Seine will attest to this.

The best and cheapest way to get around Paris is on foot, and secondly, using the excellent underground train system, known as the Métro.

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Reader interactions.

June 29, 2018 at 7:55 am

France has some many great things to offer. The city that i like is Narbonne and the beaches next to it (Gruissan, La Franqui) . These are the typical south villages that YOU must visit.

September 21, 2017 at 2:25 am

Guys you really have to go to Biarritz! The city is located in “Basque Country” which is one the most beautiful place in France with lot of culture, beautiful architecture, wonderful landscapes and a tasty cuisine. Furthermore you are close to Spain and the stunning city of San Sebastian. Lots of beautiful towns to discover in Basque country, such as “Saint Jean de Luz”, “Bayonne”, “Guéthary”, “Espelette”. Try to go there during April, May and June. Summer is overcrowded by tourists.

September 13, 2017 at 7:59 pm

I went to France it was so magical like as if you were in a fairytale or in a book. I got to see the Eiffel Tower it was bigger than I thought. I would love to go there again????

June 20, 2017 at 4:00 am

I have been to France several times i suggest going to Mon Saint Michel and to a little town called Sainte Anastasie

June 12, 2016 at 11:56 pm

Everybody’s opinion is different… What one dislikes another may enjoy.

February 28, 2016 at 8:51 pm

So my wife and I toured Western Franc back in ’99. We both love Paris, but the countryside and smaller towns is where the magic is. We found Saint-Emilion our favorite. A beautiful medieval town with great food and atmosphere. The seaside city of La Rochelle was wonderful as well, what a great place to walk around and great seafood. We really enjoyed Mont Saint-Michel. We stayed in a manor in Pontorson and thoroughly enjoyed it – that stay was somewhat of a high point (great food). Angers also felt like a hidden gem; the castle was beautiful and a great walking town. The chateaux in the Loire were phenomenal – we enjoyed Azay-le-Rideaux, Chenonceaux, Chambord, and Davinci’s home in Amboise. We also took a trip up to Vendôme and say the abbey and checked out the ruined acqueduct outside Luynes. A dolmen in Cognac was also really cool. These nuggest away from the big cities IMHO are highlights. That said, the big cities are great – good food and things to see, but French culture and spirit is more captured when you leave them.

February 24, 2016 at 6:57 am

totally wrong : this rank does mostly consider big cities, not much countryside. The true spirit of France is not in Paris, sorry, and not in French Riviera either ! Go and visit the countryside, average cities, small villages… The best villages are not in the Loire valley..: go to south Lemuel is wrong : if you look for turquoise beaches and clean sand go to west Brittany, or Corsica. Beach near Nice are ugly and dirty…

(a guy born in France)

March 18, 2015 at 4:10 am

I’ve always been a huge fan of Paris and don’t think that’ll ever change. That said, you’ve made the Loire valley look pretty tempting too! I can hardly believe that chateau 🙂 Is it open to the public?

January 7, 2015 at 5:44 am

Arles is a fantastic city to visit for all the reasons you mention. If your readers like Arles they will find Avignon nearby, which is just as fascinating to visit with its medieval history, stunning buildings and Papal connections.

December 23, 2014 at 3:06 am

france is my dream. after i graduate i will go here and cherish every moment. see you soon FRANCE 🙂 God’s will.

June 30, 2014 at 1:36 am

I want to visit France in the month of September. I am looking for back packers to stay. Which place would be ideal to stay to travel around France ?

June 4, 2014 at 8:18 pm

france is my dream. after i graduate i will go here and cherish every moment. see you soon FRANCE 🙂 God’s will.

May 21, 2014 at 9:30 am

i am planning to visit France soon. Can anyone suggest what’s the best way to go to Nice form Paris(cheap and fast)

March 3, 2014 at 10:37 am

love love Paris

July 17, 2013 at 10:09 pm

You forgot Mont Saint Michel…

June 19, 2013 at 10:02 pm

I love Loire Valley and Nice. If you enjoy villages, you gotta check Loire valley, very beautiful. And if you love turquiose beach with clean sand and neat environment you gotta try Nice.

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in France

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Mar 21, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Lisa Alexander spent two years living in Paris after college, enjoys returning to France as often as possible, and most recently visited France in March 2023.

Take a dream vacation in a country that's full of dreamy destinations. Fairy-tale castles, storybook country villages, fashionable seaside resorts, snowcapped mountains, and of course Paris , the elegant City of Light.

Begin with the Eiffel Tower, the modern emblem of France. Then discover famous masterpieces of art at the Louvre Museum. Spend a day pretending to be royalty at the elegant Palace of Versailles. Save time for leisurely gourmet meals. Traditional French gastronomy has been inscribed on the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Each region of France boasts its own distinctive cuisine and culture. The coastal region of Brittany offers the old-world charm of quaint fishing villages and ancient seaports, while the French Alps boasts a hearty cuisine of cheese fondue and charcuterie served in cozy chalets near ski slopes.

Every corner of the country has a certain magic. Discover the wonders of travelers' favorite places and learn about the best things to do with my list of the top attractions in France.

1. Eiffel Tower

2. musée du louvre, 3. château de versailles, 4. côte d'azur, 5. mont saint-michel, 6. castles of the loire valley, 7. cathédrale notre-dame de chartres, 8. provence, 9. chamonix-mont-blanc, 10. alsace villages, 11. carcassonne, 12. brittany, 13. biarritz, 14. rocamadour, 15. prehistoric cave paintings in lascaux, best time to visit france.

The Eiffel Tower is a feat of ingenuity as much as it is a famous landmark. This structure of 8,000 metallic parts was designed by Gustave Eiffel as a temporary exhibit for the World Fair of 1889. Originally loathed by critics, the 330-meter-high tower is now a beloved and irreplaceable fixture of the Paris skyline.

Upon the first glimpse, you'll be impressed by the tower's delicate airiness despite its monumental size. Next, the panoramas at each of the three levels will take your breath away.

You can dine with a view on the 1st floor or indulge at the Michelin-starred Le Jules Verne restaurant on the 2nd floor. At the exhilarating height of 276 meters, the top floor offers a sweeping outlook over the city of Paris and beyond. Vistas extend as far as 70 kilometers on a clear day.

The most prestigious museum in Paris, the Louvre ranks among the top European collections of fine arts. Many of Western Civilization's most famous works are found here, including the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci, the Wedding Feast at Cana by Veronese, and the 1st-century-BC Venus de Milo sculpture.

The collection owes its wealth to the contributions of various kings who lived in the Louvre, in centuries past when it was a royal palace. Other pieces were added as a result of France's treaties with the Vatican and the Republic of Venice, and from the spoils of Napoléon I.

The Louvre displays around 35,000 artworks, including countless masterpieces. It's impossible to see it all in a day or even in a week. Take a private guided tour or focus on a shortlist of key artworks for the most rewarding experience.

The UNESCO-listed Château de Versailles immerses you in France's glorious regal history. Step back in time to the era of the ancien régime , when Louis XIV (the "Sun King"), Louis XV, and Louis XVI ruled France. During that period, the Palace of Versailles set the standard for princely courts in Europe.

The most spectacular space in the palace is the Hall of Mirrors , where courtiers waited for an audience with His Majesty. This dazzling gallery sparkles with sunlight that enters through the windows and is reflected off hundreds of ornamental mirrors, while dozens of glittering chandeliers and gilded details make the overall impression even more marvelous.

Versailles is equally renowned for Les Jardins , formal French gardens featuring decorative pools, perfectly trimmed shrubbery, numerous statues, and magnificent fountains. The gardens were created in the 17th century by renowned landscape designer André Le Nôtre and are surrounded by 800 hectares of lush parkland.

Beyond the formal gardens is the Domaine de Trianon , which includes Le Grand Trianon palace; Le Petit Trianon château; and Le Hameau de la Reine (The Queen's Hamlet), Marie-Antoinette's fabricated pastoral village featuring quaint cottages set around a lake.

The buildings of Marie-Antoinette's hamlet were inspired by the rural architecture of the Normandy region. (Faux pastoral hamlets were a typical feature of aristocratic estates during the 18th century.) The "farmhouse" and "cottage" buildings have a weathered finish that was intentionally rendered to lend a rustic look (although the interiors were exquisitely furnished).

Marie-Antoinette's hamlet originally had a working dairy and farm, which served educational purposes for her children. This idyllic spot was designed as a place for Marie-Antoinette to escape from the formality of court life, take walks, and visit with friends. Le Hameau de la Reine provides a rare glimpse of Marie-Antoinette's private world.

The most fashionable stretch of coastline in France, the Côte d'Azur extends from Saint-Tropez to Menton near the border with Italy. Côte d'Azur translates to "Coast of Blue," a fitting name to describe the Mediterranean's mesmerizing cerulean waters.

To English speakers, this glamorous seaside destination is known as the French Riviera , words that have a ring of sun-drenched decadence.

During summer, the seaside resorts cater to beach lovers and sun-worshippers. The rich and famous are also found here in their lavish villas and luxury yachts.

The town of Nice has panoramic sea views and stellar art museums but nothing beats the views from the hilltop village of Eze . Cannes is famous for its celebrity film festival and legendary Belle Epoque hotels.

The best sandy beaches are in Antibes , which also has an atmospheric Old Town and superb museums. Saint-Tropez offers fabulous public and private beaches plus the charm of a Provençal fishing village, while Monaco seduces with its exclusive ambiance and stunning scenery.

Rising dramatically from a rocky islet off the Normandy coast, the UNESCO-listed Mont Saint-Michel is one of France's most striking landmarks. This "Pyramid of the Seas" is a mystical sight, perched 80 meters above the bay and surrounded by imposing defensive walls and bastions.

The main tourist attraction, the Abbaye du Mont Saint-Michel is a marvel of medieval architecture with soaring Gothic spires. You will be awed by the serene beauty of the Abbey Church, with its harmonious Romanesque nave and ornate high-vaulted choir.

Since it was built in the 11th century, the Abbey Church has been an important Christian pilgrimage destination, known as "The Heavenly Jerusalem." Modern-day pilgrims are still inspired by Mont Saint-Michel and continue the tradition of crossing the bay by foot as it was done in the Middle Ages.

Traveling through the Loire Valley gives the impression of stepping into a children's storybook. Turreted fairy-tale castles grace a luxuriant countryside of dense woodlands and gently flowing rivers. The entire Loire Valley, an area known as the "Garden of France," is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Some of the Loire castles are medieval fortresses built on hilltops and surrounded by ramparts. However, the most famous Loire châteaux are sumptuous Renaissance palaces that were designed purely for enjoyment and entertainment, as an extension of court life outside of Paris.

The Château de Chambord , built for King Francis I, is the most magnificent château; the Château de Chenonceau has a distinctive feminine style; and the Château de Cheverny is a Neoclassical-style manor house estate that includes a Tintin exhibition, English gardens, and a forest.

It is also worth visiting the UNESCO-listed cathedrals in Chartres and Bourges as well as the city of Orléans , where Joan of Arc helped defeat the English army in 1429, and the Château Royal d'Amboise , the residence of French kings for five hundred years.

For more than eight centuries, the magnificence of Chartres Cathedral has inspired the faithful, and some say this sublime sanctuary has restored belief in the doubtful.

The UNESCO-listed Chartres Cathedral is a marvel of Gothic architecture, renowned for its 12th- and 13th-century stained-glass windows. Covering 2,500 square meters, the brilliant windows allow colorful light to filter into the vast nave, creating an ethereal effect. The intricately detailed windows reveal the incredible craftsmanship in depicting biblical stories.

The rose windows are especially noteworthy for their incredible size and details. Other highlights are the Passion window, one of the most original in its style and expression, and the Blue Virgin window which dates from the 12th century.

On the third Saturday of September, the city of Chartres presents Chartres en Lumières (Festival of Light) during European Heritage Days . The festival includes street art, music, and guided tours. During this annual event, the Chartres Cathedral dazzles crowds with its colorful multimedia show featuring illuminations and sound. The illumination show also takes place at the cathedral in July and August every evening after 10pm.

Escape into a bucolic landscape of olive groves, sun-drenched rolling hills, and deep purple lavender fields, with little villages nestled in the valleys and perched on rocky outcrops. The vibrant scenery has enchanted many famous artists, including Cézanne, Matisse, Chagall, and Picasso.

The rustic natural beauty, country charm, and laid-back atmosphere of Provence allow the region's art de vivre (art of living) to flourish. Sultry weather encourages leisurely strolls along cobblestone streets and afternoons spent on sunny terraces of outdoor cafés.

Among the many attractions of Provence is its delicious Mediterranean cuisine, which is based on olive oil, vegetables, and aromatic herbs. You can choose from a wide range of culinary establishments, from family-run bistros to Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurants.

The quintessential Provençal town, Aix-en-Provence is famous for its colorful open-air markets and the hundreds of fountains that are typical of southern France. Fascinating ancient ruins and traditional festivals distinguish Arles , while the medieval city of Avignon is home to the UNESCO-listed Palais de Papes.

Even tiny villages, like Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Saint-Rémy, and Gordes, have amazing historic sites, fantastic museums, and an irresistibly quaint ambiance.

The awesome spectacle of Mont Blanc in the French Alps is an unforgettable sight. The highest mountain peak in Europe, Mont Blanc soars to 4,810 meters. Thanks to its elevation, Mont Blanc ("White Mountain") is always blanketed in snow.

Beneath its majestic peak is the traditional alpine village of Chamonix , nestled in a high-mountain valley. This delightful little town is filled with historic churches, traditional alpine restaurants, and charming auberges.

Chamonix is a great base for skiing, hiking, rock climbing, outdoor adventures, or just relaxing. The village is one of the best places to visit in France for inspiring natural scenery and alpine accommodations. Upscale mountain lodges and cozy chalets welcome guests in style.

Catering to diners with good appetites, local restaurants serve hearty meals typical of the Savoie region, as well as international cuisine. To sample the Savoyard specialties, try the charcuterie, fondue , and raclette (melted Gruyère, Comté, or Emmentaler cheese served with boiled potatoes).

Some of the prettiest villages in France are tucked away in the green, rolling hills of Alsace, where the Vosges Mountains border the Rhine River of Germany. These picturesque Alsatian villages feature pastel-painted, half-timbered houses clustered around small parish churches. Cheerful flowering balconies and pedestrian cobblestone streets add to the appeal.

Villages Fleuris and Plus Beaux Villages de France

Many of the villages have won France's Villages Fleuris award for their lovely floral decorations, such as Obernai , with its characteristic burghers' houses; the charming little village of Ribeauvillé , where many homes are adorned with potted flowers; the Pays d'Art et d'Histoire (Region of Art and History) of Guebwiller ; and the captivating medieval village of Bergheim .

Some of the flower-bedecked Alsatian villages are so pretty that they have been designated as both Villages Fleuris and Plus Beaux Villages de France (Most Beautiful Villages of France), including the storybook hamlet of Riquewihr and the enchanting village of Eguisheim , nestled in a valley. Another of the Plus Beaux Villages is Mittelbergheim , known for its gastronomy and gorgeous pastoral landscape, at the foot of the verdant Mont Saint-Odile.

If you're planning an Alsace vacation itinerary, Colmar is a good base to explore the Alsatian villages and surrounding nature trails.

With its turreted towers and crenelated ramparts, Carcassonne seems straight out of a fairy-tale scene. This well-preserved (and renovated) fortified city offers a total immersion into the world of the Middle Ages.

Known as La Cité , the UNESCO-listed walled medieval town of Carcassonne is a warren of narrow, winding cobblestone lanes and quaint old houses. Nearly every street, square, and building has retained its historic character. Within la Cité, the 12th-century Château Comtal reveals the Cathar heritage of the Languedoc region .

Must-see tourist attractions are the double-circuited ramparts with 52 towers and the Basilique Saint-Nazaire et Saint-Celse , which features splendid 13th-century stained-glass windows.

Carcassonne draws many visitors on July 14th for its fireworks show, to celebrate Bastille Day , a national holiday (Fête Nationale). Despite being a small town, Carcassonne presents one of the most dazzling July 14th fireworks displays in France.

The Brittany region in northeastern France brims with natural beauty and historic charm. A rugged coastline, quaint fishing villages, and weathered seaports characterize this region. The distinctive local culture is steeped in ancient traditions and famous for its costumed religious festivals.

A mystical land of myths and legends, Brittany has a Celtic influence and a dialect related to Gaelic. The local cuisine is based on seafood and is renowned for its savory buckwheat crêpes and sweet dessert crêpes.

The quintessential Breton port is Saint-Malo surrounded by 17th-century fortifications. Quimper is a picture-postcard town with handsome half-timbered houses, pleasant squares, and an impressive Gothic cathedral. Nantes has a spectacular château and is where the Edict of Nantes was signed in 1598 granting freedom of religious belief to Protestants.

Other highlights of Brittany are the pristine sandy beaches, tiny remote islands, and ancient castles. Belle-Île-en-Mer , the largest of the Breton islands, appeals to vacationers in search of a peaceful seaside setting. Ferry boats run from Quiberon, Port Navalo, and Vannes to Belle-Île-en-Mer.

This fashionable seaside resort has an elegant and aristocratic air; it was a favorite destination of Empress Eugénie , wife of Napoleon III. Empress Eugénie loved the beautiful setting on the Bay of Biscay in France's Basque country.

The imperial couple's grandiose Second Empire palace has been converted into the Hôtel du Palais Biarritz , a luxury hotel featuring a Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurant and sensational views of the Grande Plage beach. This large sandy beach, with its broad seafront promenade, has attracted high-society vacation goers since the Belle Epoque.

Other must-see sights of Biarritz are related to the ocean: the Biarritz Aquarium ; the Lighthouse ; and the Rocher de la Vierge (Virgin of the Rock) which stands along the coastline on an immense rock beaten by the Atlantic's wild waves.

For a taste of the town's regal past, visit the chic Miremont tearoom that has served exceptional pastries since 1872.

Rocamadour resides between heaven and earth, suspended on a sheer limestone cliff as if providing a medium for spiritual wonders.

In the 11th century, this pilgrimage destination was the third most important in Christendom after Jerusalem and Rome. Rocamadour was on the medieval Chemin de Saint-Jacques (Way of Saint James) pilgrimage trail to Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

The village has seven ancient sanctuaries, but pilgrims flock to the Chapelle Notre-Dame (Chapelle Miraculeuse), which possesses the venerated Black Virgin (Notre-Dame de Rocamadour). This precious Virgin Mary figure was carved from walnut wood that naturally darkened over the centuries and is associated with miracles.

Another must-see sight is the UNESCO-listed Basilique Saint-Sauveur , the largest church of Rocamadour built in Romanesque and Gothic styles between the 11th and 13th centuries. For a challenging spiritual experience, pilgrims can ascend the steep flight of steps, with 12 Stations of the Cross, leading up to the château at the highest point in the village.

About 145 kilometers from Limoges in the Limousin , Rocamadour is surrounded by the Parc Naturel Régional des Causses du Quercy , a natural park in the Dordogne region.

Discover the fascinating world of prehistoric art in Lascaux, the finest example of Paleolithic art in the world. This UNESCO-listed site is in the Vézère Valley of the Dordogne region . Discovered in 1940, the Lascaux Cave contains exquisite prehistoric paintings, but in 1963 was closed to the public to prevent damage.

A replica of the cave was created at the nearby Lascaux II site in Montignac, 200 meters from the actual cave. Opened in 1983, Lascaux II is a faithful reproduction of the Lascaux Cave and its paintings. The Paleolithic art has been carefully recreated, including every detail of the animal paintings in authentic ochre hues.

Opened in 2016, the sleek ultra-modern International Centre for Cave Art (also in Montignac) presents a complete replica ( Lascaux IV ) of the original Lascaux Cave along with museum exhibits that provide context for the prehistoric artworks. Virtual reality exhibits and a 3-D film help bring the prehistoric period to life.

Highlights of the Lascaux prehistoric cave paintings are the Salle des Taureaux (Hall of the Bulls) with panels featuring unicorns and bears and the Diverticule Axial , a narrow 30-meter-long hall with impressive drawings of bulls, cows, and horses. The art reproductions of the replica caves are so accurate that visitors would not be able to tell the difference from the original.

France appeals to travelers through the four seasons. For most tourists, the best seasons to visit are in the late spring, summer, and early autumn . Summertime is the most popular season because of school vacations and warm weather. Late spring and early autumn offer pleasant, mild weather and less crowds.

For those who appreciate beautiful gardens, spring and summer are the best seasons to visit France and especially Paris. One of the top day trips from Paris, Monet's Garden in Giverny is spectacular when tulips bloom in April, in May when wisterias bud, and in June when roses blossom. By July, the famous water lilies of Monet's paintings appear in the garden's pond.

In terms of warm weather and long days, summer is the best season to visit. The months of July and August are great for beach vacations on the French Riviera or the elegant resort of Biarritz on the Atlantic Coast. Outdoor sports enthusiasts enjoy the countryside of Provence, the Auvergne region , and the French Alps during summertime, when the sunshine and comfortable temperatures make hiking and boating enjoyable.

For budget travelers, the winter is a good time to visit France because hotel prices are reduced. However, from December through February the weather can be very chilly (low 40s to mid 40s Fahrenheit in Paris and northern France), as well as rainy.

Many travelers enjoy visiting during the holiday season (end of November through January 1st) since Paris and other cities feature lovely Christmas decorations. In addition, the holidays are the time for Christmas music concerts and traditional Marchés de Noël (Christmas markets) especially in the small towns of Provence, Annecy in the French Alps, and the quaint villages of the Alsace region .

More on France

25 Incredible Places to Visit in France | 2024 (with Photos)

Staša Petrović - Travel Writer

Last Updated: January 22, 2024

Hi there! I'm Stasha, a travel enthusiast and avid explorer of France. Through my personal experiences and adventures, I have curated a list of 25 incredible places to visit in France, complete with captivating photos to inspire your wanderlust. Happy travels!

France is a treasure trove of breathtaking destinations, steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty.

From the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris to the sun-kissed beaches of the French Riviera, and from the medieval villages of Provence to the charming vineyards of Bordeaux, there are countless places to explore in this enchanting country.

Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, an art lover, or just seeking to soak in the French joie de vivre, France has something for everyone.

Join us on a journey to discover the 25 best places to visit in France for a truly memorable trip that will captivate your senses and leave you with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Most Recommended Thing to Do

• Eiffel Tower

Top Choice Hotel

Our Top Choice Restaurant

Our Top Choice Bar for Nightlife

Le Comptoir Général

Best Time to Visit

Spring or fall, avoid summer crowds and heat.

Average Temperature

The average temperature in Paris, France is mild.

Transportation Options

Metro, RER, bus, tram, taxi, bike, walking, rideshare.

Average Cost ($, $$, $$$)

My Top Recommendation

Paris, France has an undeniable charm that captivates visitors from around the world. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history and explore iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral, taking in the breathtaking views from their heights.

Indulge your taste buds with a stroll through the charming streets of Le Marais, where you can discover quaint cafes, local bakeries, and trendy boutiques. Savor delicious French cuisine at a cozy bistro, and experience the vibrant nightlife in the lively neighborhood of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

What You'll Need to Bring

• Travel documents
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Weather-appropriate clothing

What Not to Miss

• Louvre Museum
• Notre-Dame Cathedral
• Seine River

What to Avoid

• Pickpocketing and theft
• Tourist scams
• Overpriced tourist traps

Table of Contents

1. Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel is an iconic island commune in Normandy, France, renowned for its stunning medieval abbey perched atop a rocky island, surrounded by vast tidal flats.

It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a place of pilgrimage , attracting visitors with its unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty.

As the tides change, Mont Saint-Michel transforms from an island to a peninsula, creating a surreal and awe-inspiring sight.

With its rich cultural significance and breathtaking vistas, Mont Saint-Michel is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a truly unforgettable experience in France.

2. The French Riviera

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d'Azur, is one of the best places to visit in France, as it boasts a glamorous stretch of coastline along the Mediterranean Sea in Southern France, with popular destinations such as Nice, Cannes, and St. Tropez.

Renowned for its stunning beaches, glamorous resorts, and vibrant nightlife, the French Riviera has long been a playground for the rich and famous.

With its azure waters, picturesque villages, and luxurious yachts dotting the harbors, the French Riviera exudes elegance and sophistication.

From the chic city of Nice to the glamorous principality of Monaco, the French Riviera is a great tourist destination that promises a perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence.

3. The Loire Valley

The Loire Valley, located in central France, is a picturesque region with an unspoiled landscape and one of the best places to visit in France.

Known as the "Garden of France," Val de Loire Refonte is a UNESCO World Heritage site, dotted with over 300 castles , including the iconic Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau.

The region also boasts charming towns, lush gardens, and scenic cycling routes along the Loire River.

Renowned for its wine production and rich history, the Loire Valley is a captivating destination that promises an enchanting experience for everyone that comes.

4. Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris

Notre Dame Cathedral, located in the heart of Paris, France, is a world-famous Gothic masterpiece and an iconic symbol of French history and culture.

Built in the 12th century, the Notre Dame cathedral's soaring towers, intricate stained glass windows, and ornate sculptures are a testament to the unparalleled craftsmanship of its time.

The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris is one of eight religious buildings that visitors can explore after ascending the 216 steps of Le Grand Escalier to the square at the top.

With its rich religious and architectural significance, Notre Dame Cathedral has been a source of inspiration for art, literature, and countless visitors from around the world.

Despite the devastating fire in 2019, Notre Dame Cathedral continues to hold a special place in the hearts of Parisians and travelers alike.

5. Place de la Bourse

Place de la Bourse, located in Bordeaux, France, is a historic square that is a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage.

Built in the 18th century, the square is known for its iconic architectural masterpiece , the Palais de la Bourse, with its grand neoclassical façade and stunning reflecting pool known as the Miroir d'Eau.

The Place de la Bourse is a vibrant hub, surrounded by elegant buildings, charming cafes, and bustling markets, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty and history of Bordeaux.

6. The Eiffel Tower - Paris' Beloved Landmark

The Eiffel Tower, located in Paris, France, is one of the most famous landmarks in the world , and an enduring symbol of romance, elegance, and French culture.

Standing tall at 330 meters, this iconic iron lattice tower was designed by Gustave Eiffel and completed in 1889 for the World's Fair.

Today, it welcomes millions of visitors annually, who come to marvel at its majestic structure and panoramic views of the city.

Whether it's admiring the tower's intricate details, ascending to the top for breathtaking vistas, or enjoying a leisurely picnic in its surrounding gardens, the Eiffel Tower continues to captivate the hearts and minds of travelers from around the globe.

7. Château de Chenonceau

The Château de Chenonceau is one of the special places to visit in France, as it is a beloved masterpiece of architectural ingenuity, nestled gracefully over the tranquil waters of the Cher River in France's Loire Valley.

Renowned for its distinctive blend of Renaissance and Gothic architecture, this enchanting castle is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and design.

The Château de Chenonceau is not only a marvel of architectural ingenuity but also has a fascinating history that adds to its allure.

Designed and constructed in the 16th century, it has been home to several notable women who left their mark on the castle and its surroundings.

It was first owned by Catherine Briçonnet, who oversaw the construction of the bridge gallery, and later by Diane de Poitiers, who created the beautiful gardens and added the bridge chapel.

Its elegant arched gallery, known as the " Gallery of the Ladies ," spans the river, creating a breathtaking sight that seems to hover above the water.

With its stunning gardens and romantic ambiance, the Château de Chenonceau is a cherished gem that continues to captivate visitors with its unique charm and allure.

8. Saint Tropez

Saint Tropez, located on the French Riviera, is a world-famous destination known for its sun-drenched beaches, vibrant nightlife, and glamorous atmosphere.

This former sleepy fishing village turned jet-setter's playground has been a magnet for celebrities, artists, and fashionistas for decades. The town rose to fame after it was featured in the film "Et Dieu Créa la Femme" (And God Created Woman), starring Brigitte Bardot.

With its picturesque harbor, charming old town, and luxury yachts dotting the marina, beautiful beaches such as the Plage de la Bouillabaisse, Saint Tropez exudes an air of chic sophistication.

From its trendy beach clubs and designer boutiques to its historic sites and cultural events, Saint Tropez offers a perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a taste of the good life.

9. The Beaux Villages de France

The Beaux Villages de France, or the Most Beautiful Villages of France, are one of the best places to visit in France, as they are a collection of picturesque and quaint villages that showcase the country's rich heritage, culture, and natural beauty.

Nestled in idyllic countryside settings, these villages are known for their well-preserved architecture, historic landmarks, and stunning landscapes.

From medieval fortifications to charming cobblestone streets, each Beaux Village exudes its own unique charm and character.

These hidden gems offer an opportunity to step back in time and experience the beauty and tranquility of rural France, making them a treasure trove for travelers seeking an authentic and enchanting experience.

10. The French Alps

The French Alps, located in southeastern France, is a majestic mountain range known for its towering peaks, pristine snow-capped slopes, and breathtaking landscapes.

A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, the French Alps offer cross-country skiing, hiking, mountaineering, and other adventure sports.

The French Alps are also renowned for their charming alpine villages, where visitors can experience traditional mountain culture and hospitality.

These villages are characterized by their wooden chalets, narrow streets, and local shops and restaurants serving regional delicacies such as cheese fondue and tartiflette.

11. Bordeaux

The Bordeaux region, located in southwestern France, is a renowned wine-producing region known for its prestigious vineyards, historic chateaux, and world-class wines.

In addition to its wines, Bordeaux is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with a wealth of historical monuments, museums, and art galleries. There are numerous activities to enjoy in Bordeaux .

The city of Bordeaux is particularly notable for its 18th-century architecture, which has earned it the nickname "The Sleeping Beauty."

With its fertile vineyards, historical monuments, picturesque landscapes, and rich winemaking tradition, Bordeaux is a paradise for wine lovers, offering tastings, tours, and the chance to indulge in the finest vintages in the world.

12. Saint-Paul de Vence

Saint-Paul de Vence is a charming medieval village located in the Provence region of France. Perched atop a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside, the village is known for its narrow streets, stone houses, and picturesque squares.

Saint-Paul de Vence has a rich artistic heritage, having been home to many famous painters and writers over the years. Visitors can explore numerous art galleries and museums , including the Fondation Maeght, which showcases works by modern and contemporary artists.

The village also offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding countryside, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat in a scenic setting.

13. Mont Blanc & its Majestic Summit

Mont Blanc is one of the most thrilling places to visit in France, as it is the highest mountain in the French Alps and Western Europe, standing at an impressive 4,810 meters (15,781 feet) above sea level.

Its majestic summit attracts mountaineers and outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world , seeking to climb its towering peak.

Mont Blanc is renowned for its stunning beauty and challenging terrain, with glaciers, snowfields, and rocky ridges offering a thrilling and unforgettable experience for climbers.

The summit also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the French and Italian Alps and the Mont Blanc massif.

For those seeking a less challenging experience, there are also numerous hiking trails and cable cars that provide access to the mountain's lower slopes and offer stunning views of the surrounding scenery.

14. La Petite France in Strasbourg

La Petite France is a picturesque neighborhood located in the heart of Strasbourg, in northeastern France.

Known for its timber-framed houses, narrow streets, and charming canals , the district is a popular tourist destination, offering a glimpse into the city's culture.

La Petite France is home to several historic buildings, including the Maison des Tanneurs, a former tannery that now houses a restaurant, and the Maison Kammerzell, a beautifully preserved medieval house that dates back to the 15th century.

Visitors can stroll along the canals, admire the colorful buildings, and sample the local cuisine in one of the many restaurants and cafes that line the streets.

The Alsace region in northeastern France is one of the most picturesque places to visit in France , renowned for its charming medieval towns, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.

With its distinctive half-timbered houses, flower-lined streets, and world-class vineyards, the Alsace region offers a unique blend of French and German influences.

The region's cuisine, featuring traditional dishes such as sauerkraut and flammkuchen, is a culinary delight.

The Alsace region is also home to vibrant festivals, enchanting Christmas markets, and warm hospitality that make it a beloved destination for travelers seeking a taste of Alsatian charm.

16. The Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum is one of the most famous museums in Paris and in the world.

It is renowned for its extensive collection of art and artifacts, spanning over 9,000 years of human history.

The Louvre is home to some of the world's most famous works of art, including the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci, the Winged Victory of Samothrace , and the Venus de Milo .

Its collections also include ancient Egyptian artifacts, Greek and Roman sculptures, and Islamic art.

With over 38,000 works of art on display, the Louvre is a must-visit destination for art lovers and history enthusiasts from around the world.

17. The Legacy of Roman Ruins (Provence)

Roman ruins are one of the most educational places to visit in France, as it provides a thrilling experience that takes visitors back in time to ancient civilizations.

In France, the southern region of Provence is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins, including the Amphitheatre of Nimes, the Pont du Gard, and the Arena of Arles.

These sites offer visitors the opportunity to explore ancient ruins, including amphitheaters, temples, and public baths, and learn about the fascinating history of the Roman Empire.

Many sites also offer guided tours, multimedia exhibits, and interactive displays, making it easy for visitors to learn about the lives of the people who once lived in these ancient cities.

18. Cirque de Gavarnie in the Pyrenees

The Cirque de Gavarnie is a natural amphitheater located in the heart of the Pyrenees Mountains, in southwestern France.

It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its stunning natural beauty, including towering cliffs, sparkling waterfalls, and lush greenery.

The Cirque is also home to the Gavarnie waterfall , one of the highest waterfalls in Europe, with a total height of 422 meters.

The site offers visitors the opportunity to hike, climb, and explore the natural beauty of the Pyrenees , with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape at every turn.

Visiting the Cirque de Gavarnie is a must for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and stunning scenery.

19. The Champagne Region

The Champagne region in northeastern France is one of the best places to visit in France, famous for its sparkling wine , which has become synonymous with celebration and luxury around the world.

The region's unique climate and soil make it an ideal location for growing the grapes used in champagne production .

Visitors to this region can take tours of the vineyards and cellars, learn about the history and traditions of champagne-making, and taste the world's finest bubbly.

The region is also home to several charming towns and villages, such as Reims and Épernay, where visitors can sample local cuisine, explore historic landmarks, and experience the French way of life.

20. Lille & its Historic City Center

Lille's historic city, located in Northern France, is a treasure trove of architectural splendor, boasting beautiful buildings from various eras, picturesque squares, and charming cobblestone streets.

Its rich cultural heritage is evident in its churches, cathedrals, and museums, showcasing the city's history and artistic legacy.

Lille's historic city is a must-visit destination for those interested in history, art, and architecture.

21. The French Basque Country

The French Basque Country, located in the southwestern part of France, is a cultural region with a distinct identity, offering some of the most unique places to visit in France.

Known for its vibrant Basque culture , picturesque landscapes, and delicious cuisine, it offers visitors a one-of-a-kind experience.

The region is home to charming towns and villages, such as Bayonne and Biarritz, with colorful architecture and lively markets.

Visitors can also enjoy traditional Basque cuisine , including pintxos and Basque cakes, and explore the region's stunning beaches, rolling hills, and rugged coastline.

This is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing a unique blend of French and Basque culture.

22. Strasbourg

Strasbourg, a capital city of the Alsace region, is a picturesque city known for its diverse culture, and important European institutions.

Famous for its half-timbered houses, charming canals, and Gothic cathedral, Strasbourg is also home to the European Parliament , making it a significant hub of European politics and diplomacy.

Strasbourg is a unique blend of both France and Germany, a UNESCO-listed old town, and world-renowned Christmas markets making it a popular destination for tourists and a symbol of European unity.

23. Lyon (& Vieux Lyon)

Vieux Lyon, or Old Lyon, is a historic district located in the heart of Lyon, the third largest city in France.

With its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture , narrow cobblestone streets, and hidden passageways, Vieux Lyon is a historic center of cultural heritage.

Home to stunning churches, museums, and vibrant markets, this historic center offers a captivating glimpse into Lyon's culture and architectural splendor.

24. The Beaches of Normandy

The D-Day Landing Beaches of Normandy, located along the northern coast of France, is one of the most important historic places to visit in France and serves as a sobering reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II.

The beaches, including Omaha Beach and Utah Beach, were the sites of the historic D-Day landings , which marked a turning point in the war.

Today, visitors can explore the beaches and learn about the history of the landings through museums, memorials, and guided tours.

The region is also home to charming towns and villages, such as Bayeux, with rich cultural heritage and delicious local cuisine.

Visiting the D-Day Landing Beaches of Normandy is a powerful and educational experience that honors the brave soldiers who fought for freedom and democracy.

25. The Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe, located at the end of the Champs-Elysées in Paris, is one of the must-see places to visit in France. This iconic monument pays tribute to France's military victories and fallen soldiers.

Commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806, the monument stands over 50 meters tall and is adorned with intricate carvings and reliefs.

Visitors can climb to the top of the monument for stunning views of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum.

The monument is also home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which honors the soldiers who died in World War I. The Arc de Triomphe is a must-visit attraction that offers a glimpse into France's culture.

FAQs About Places to Visit in France

In this section, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the best places to visit in France.

What are some iconic places in France?

Iconic places to visit in France include Blois , a town that the French kings liked because of its rolling green hills; Oppede le Vieux village with its Middle Ages ambiance; Rocamadour , an important pilgrimage site; Dune du Pilat , the tallest sand dune in Europe; and Castelnaud-la-Chapelle , a gorgeous little village.

What should we visit in France?

While in France, you can take a day trip to the Palais des Papes , the largest Gothic palace globally in Avignon, visit a great beach like the iconic Promenade des Anglais, and go on Alsace's scenic wine trail.

What is the most popular place for tourists in France?

The most popular tourist destination in France is undoubtedly the Eiffel Tower, which is an iconic symbol of France and one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world.

What are some major attractions in France?

Some of the most popular attractions in France are the Palace of Versailles near Paris , the Cannes Film Festival, and the French Riviera .

Summing up: Incredible Places to Visit in France

In conclusion, France is one of the best places to visit and it offers a diverse range of experiences to its visitors. Whether you enjoy skiing, exploring lush forests, or wandering through charming villages, France has something to offer everyone.

Beyond the mountains and the cities that we mentioned, France boasts many other French cities and towns that are worth exploring.

From the bustling French capital city of Paris, with its iconic landmarks and museums, to the medieval city of Carcassonne, to the seaside town of Nice, each destination offers its unique charm and attractions.

Overall, France is a country that can be enjoyed in many different ways, with a vast range of attractions to suit all interests.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, visiting France will leave a lasting impression on you.

Mont Saint-Michel

Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris

The Eiffel Tower - Paris' Beloved Landmark

The Louvre Museum

The Beaches of Normandy

The Arc de Triomphe

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The Best Places to Visit in France

By Monica Mendal

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The best places to visit in France shouldn’t only be consigned to Paris and the French Riviera . Sure, there’s nothing quite like watching the Eiffel Tower twinkle at night or reveling in the glamour of summer on the Côte d’Azur, but there’s much more to France than the traditional tourist path. So, where to begin? From 10 major wine regions sweeping the country, to its variety of diverse coastlines stretching from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, to a vast mountain range that shares its borders with Switzerland and Italy, there’s plenty to explore in France year-round.

If you’re crunched for time, there are tons of day trips from Paris reachable by train if you want a change of scenery without venturing too far. Can’t get enough of French cuisine? Then how about visiting the gastronomic capital of France. (Spoiler alert: it isn’t Paris.) And if the French Riviera is out of your price range come high summer, consider exploring the country’s alternative coastlines—of which there are many.

Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best places to visit in France.

Take a Day Trip From Paris

The most popular day trip from Paris is a visit to King Louis XIV’s Palace of Versailles , a mere 45-minute train ride from the city center via the RER C metro line. The palatial estate is spread across over 2,000 acres, composed of the palace, gardens, park, Estate of Trianon, and stables. In 2021, French hotel company Airelles opened Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle in the heart of the palace grounds, with regal interiors inspired by Marie Antoinette’s Versailles estate, Petit Trianon. Here, guests can live out their own royal fantasies while benefiting from exclusive access and tailor-made experiences on the property. While Mont-Saint Michel follows Versailles as the third most visited monument in France (the first being the Eiffel Tower), there are plenty of other places to visit in Normandy as a day trip. A 50-minute train from Paris will land you in Giverny, the small village where Claude Monet famously lived and produced his illustrious water lily series. Travelers can visit his former home and gardens, which are open from late March to early November. Meanwhile, if you’re looking for a seaside escape from Paris, you don’t have to travel all the way to the south of France. Normandy’s Côte Fleurie, often referred to as the Parisian Riviera, is a popular resort destination among Parisians—particularly Deauville and Trouville, which are a two-hour train ride from Paris.

Stay here: If you decide to turn your day trip into an overnight, Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle is the ultimate stay in Versailles, while Domaine de Primard , a bucolic stay situated in an 18th-century chateau, is located a mere 30 minutes from Claude Monet’s home.

Dine Your Way Through the Bouchons of Lyon

By Marley Marius

By Deanna Pai

By Hannah Jackson

Lyon is known as the undisputed gastronomic capital of France. Unsurprisingly, it was women who earned this title for the capital city of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, specifically the Mères Lyonnaises, or mothers of Lyon. Typically women of humble origins, they left their homes after the French Revolution in search of work, landing themselves in the homes of Lyon’s bourgeois families, where they used local, inexpensive ingredients to prepare simple and delicious meals; many believe it to be their impact that helped define and shape French cuisine as we know it today. When they were released from their jobs during the economic crisis of 1929, many of these women decided to open their own restaurants, known today as bouchons, referring to homey, casual eateries serving affordable and hearty fare. Today, Lyon is still littered with its historic bouchons —in fact, there are more restaurants per head than in any other in France. Try traditional Lyonnaise dishes like the quenelles at Cafe Comptoir Abel, chef Joseph Viola’s award-winning pâté en croûte at Daniel et Denise Créqui, the tête de veau at Café des Fédérations, and everything else at La Meunière, Brasserie Georges, and Chez Georges.

Stay here: Situated in a former convent, Villa Florentine is located in the heart of Old Lyon, a stone’s throw away from the best restaurants in the city. In the warmer months, take a dip in the rooftop pool featuring panoramic views of the city.

Ski the French Alps

France is blessed by such a surfeit of the world’s top ski resorts that it’s almost impossible to decide where to go. Les Trois Vallées is among the most popular ski regions in France, connecting multiple resorts through its interlinked valleys accessible using a single ski pass. Apart from skiing, the upper-crust love Courchevel for its abundance of five-star resorts (the most in France after Paris), magnum rosé-filled lobster lunches, and high-end luxury boutiques—some of which, like Moncler, are even located sur piste. If it’s refined subtly you’re going for in Les Trois Vallées, Meribel is the ideal option not only for its optimal location and famous slopes, like La Face, which was created for the 1992 Winter Olympics, but for its friendly-friendly atmosphere and bounty of ski-in ski-out chalets and hotels, including the beloved Hôtel Le Coucou , helmed by the same owners as Provence’s Crillon Le Brave and Paris’s buzzy new Le Grand Mazarin. Head to Chamonix at the base of Mont Blanc, often primed with fresh powder, to tick skiing the world’s longest ski run, the Vallée Blanche, off your bucket list. For a less advanced resort (or if it’s not the skiing alone that entices you), the nearby Megève will feed your appetite for a romantic sojourn in a charming alpine village with cobbled streets littered with high-end restaurants and chic stays. Val d’Isère is quickly becoming the French Alps’ latest hot spot with a flurry of buzzy openings, from Airelles Val d’Isère and the upcoming Experimental Chalet Val d’Isère signaling a new awakening.

Stay here: The Pierre Yovanovitch-designed stay Hôtel Le Coucou is a stylish ski-in ski-out hotel with excellent dining options, from a traditional Savoyard restaurant to its beloved Beefbar. Airelles Val d’Isère is another ski-in ski-out hotel, host to its own assortment of critically acclaimed dining establishments, from Loulou to Nobu Matsuhisa’s Matsuhisa. The historic Grand Hôtel Soleil d’Or , recently acquired by the hotel group behind Mallorca’s Cap Rocat and Christian Louboutin’s hotel in Melides, Portugal, is a romantic alpine retreat with just 18 rooms and three adjoining chalets and home to La Chocolaterie, Megève village’s beloved social hub.

Explore the Central and Northern Wine Regions

You can find wine production in nearly every corner of France, but it’s always worth visiting the regions located within close proximity to Paris—from Champagne and Alsace in the north, to Loire Valley and Burgundy in central France. In Champagne, Reims and Épernay would be the best base to explore the five regions. If you’re inclined to visit one of the big names, Ruinart in Reims offers the most organized experiences, from cellar tours to tastings to custom-designed brunch, lunch, or dinner experiences on-site. For a more intimate experience near Épernay, head to the family estate of Billecart-Salmon , where visitors are made to feel like they’re a part of the family with tastings held in the estate’s dining room. Ahead of the Olympics, Uber will also be introducing a new travel product in the champagne region, which will be announced next month. Much like its wines, the Loire Valley provides the most variety. With the Loire Valley’s vast wine regions spanning the Muscadet region on the western coast, all the way to the Sancerre region in the central north, there’s more to enjoy here than just wine. From charming medieval villages, to its lush ethereal gardens—the grounds of the Château de Villandry are among the most famous—to fairytale castles, like the iconic Château de Chambord, Loire Valley maintains the perfect balance for a well-rounded holiday in wine country. It’s also worth exploring Burgundy, with a jaunt in its capital city Dijon, known for its mustard, or explore the German and Swiss-bordered Alsace region, with visits to both its capital city of Strasbourg and the charming old town of Colmar.

Stay here : In the Loire Valley, you can’t go wrong with a pastoral stay at the iconic Les Sources de Cheverny or if you prefer something less traditional, check out Château de la Haute Borde , known for its seasonal artist residencies. For an immersive stay in Champagne, the beautiful 12-room Château de Sacy sits in a charming village in the heart of the vineyards.

Sip Your Way Through Bordeaux

While the lesser-known wine regions in the south of France, such as the Rhône Valley and the Languedoc, are certainly not to be missed by wine aficionados, your introduction to French wine should undoubtedly begin with Bordeaux. Spend a night or two in the city of Bordeaux itself before heading to the countryside, and take a stroll through the vibrant Chartrons neighborhood or enjoy dinner at Au Bistrot. The type of experience you’ll have in Bordeaux’s wine country is characterized by which side of the Dordogne River you’re on. The right bank, which you can read about here , is distinguished by its shorter distances, hilly terrain, and famous medieval villages, while the left bank is formed by the Médoc, land that stretches all the way from the city of Bordeaux to the coast. The Médoc is famous for its palatial wine estates—many of which are open by appointment for tours and tastings. These wine castles, as they’re appropriately monikered, not only produce some of the finest wines in France, but are destinations in themselves—from some of the oldest and most historic, like Chateau d’Arsac and Château Livran , to the women-owned Château Larrivaux , which has been run by women of the same family since 1580. Among the many reasons to visit the Médoc wine region is due, in part, to its proximity to the coast. After a week of wine tastings, spend a few days on the sandy beaches of Soulac-sur-Mer, a timeless seaside village whose simplicity and belle époque nostalgia lend it a feeling of laid-back glamour.

Stay here: On Bordeaux’s left bank, stay at Maison d’Estournel , a refined country house set on the vineyards of its adjoining wine estate Cos d’Estournel . On the right bank, Logis de la Cadène puts you right at the center of the iconic Saint-Émilion wine village, and its Michelin-starred restaurant is among the most popular in the region.

Take a Scenic Drive Through Provence

Plan some tastings ahead of your (ideally, late spring or early summer) visit to Provence at Château La Mascaronne or Château Gassier —after all, Provence is the land of rosé. When your rosé-tinted glasses have worn off, however, it’s time to hit the road, and there’s no better way to discover Provence’s surfeit of charming hilltop villages set against the backdrop of its sweeping fields of lavender, vines, and sunflower fields, than from a vintage car with the top down. Rent a car with Provence Classics , beginning your road trip in the Luberon, where you can pick up some local market produce and souvenirs from the hilltop village of Gordes, then drive past the lavender fields at Abbaye Notre-Dame de Senanque on your way to stroll through the red cliffside village of Roussillon. From there, begin your journey to Avignon, stopping through Provence’s antique capital, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, for some antique shopping at notable shops, like 50 Cinquante and Bernard Durand . Arriving at Avignon, visit the Palais des Papes and the Jardin des Domes or meander through the city’s labyrinth of cafés and shops, before following the Van Gogh route from Saint-Rémy-de-Provence to Arles. For a truly enchanting conclusion to your road trip, head 20 minutes south of Arles for a journey into the wilds: the Camargue, western Europe’s largest delta, featuring a wild landscape of lagoons, reeds, and salt marshes—a place where wild horses roam free and a colony of pink flamingos comes to nest in the warmer months. No, it’s not the rosé-tinted glasses you’re wearing—this place is real .

Stay here: The elegant La Bastide de Gordes will place you right in the center of the iconic hilltop village. You can alternatively opt for a stay at the charming La Bastide de Mourre nearby or in its sister property Domaine de Chalamon in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. For an ultra-luxurious and romantic retreat, book a room at Crillon le Brave , located a short distance from the best antique shops in the region. In June, the much-anticipated Les Bains Gardians will open in the heart of Camargue National Park.

Hike the Calanques

After exploring the countryside of Provence, it’s time to hit the seaside. With its influx of trending hotel and restaurant openings, it’s no secret that the weird and wild Marseille has become a hotbed for the creative class in recent years. But before stylish crowds descended on the vibrant port city, its wild limestone cliffside extending between Marseille and Cassis, known as the Calanques, had always been its natural draw. The Calanques National Park is a hiker’s paradise, with many of its trails ending at secret coves and white sand beaches that are only reachable by foot or sea, like Calanque of Port-Miou, Calanque of Port-Pin, and Calanque of En-Vau. If you prefer to explore the calanques by sea, book a public or private charter aboard Le Don du Vent for a day of sailing and swimming.

Stay here: Optimally situated on a rocky shore in the fishing village of Les Goudes, Tuba Club is the perfect place to stay given it’s located at the gateway to the Calanques National Park. Book a room at the 5-star Hôtel Les Roches Blanches in the neighboring Cassis if you’re looking for a more elegant stay outside of the frenetic city center of Marseille.

Oyster Tasting in the Bay of Arcachon

Head southwest for a week of oyster tastings on the Bay of Arcachon. Base yourself in the chic seaside village of Cap Ferret, the southern tip of the Lege-Cap-Ferret peninsula, known as the oyster capital of France. A scenic seaside town characterized by its quaint fisherman villages and oyster farms, Cap Ferret has long been a chic holiday hamlet and a best-kept secret among the French for its abundance of beautiful beaches and al fresco seafood restaurants. Flanked by the Atlantic beaches primed for surf and the quieter beaches on the bay, lined with oyster shacks and framed by the famed Dune Du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe, Cap Ferret is a unique summer destination for travelers seeking a more laid back alternative to the French Riviera. Don’t forget to grab a bike and explore the many picturesque fishing villages located deeper in the peninsula, from Le Canon to l’Herbe, or book a boat day with Des Hommes et Des Mers to explore it all by sea.

Stay here: Last summer the oldest hotel on the peninsula dating back to the 1970s, Hôtel des Dunes re-opened as a cool surf lodge of sorts, with each of its 13 rooms designed in the spirit of Cap Ferret’s oyster shacks, and located just across the street from Cap Ferret’s best surf beach. If you prefer to stay in Arcachon, the Philippe Starck-designed La Co(o)rniche is a five-star stay in the upmarket Pyla-Sur-Mer neighborhood, boasting panoramic views of the Dune du Pilat from its lively restaurant bar.

Surf the French Basque

Begin your road trip in the French Basque Country’s gateway city, Bayonne, where you can scoop up some of the famous Bayonne cured ham and chocolate before making your way to the coast. It’s no secret to surf enthusiasts everywhere that France’s southwest is world-renowned for its epic surf breaks—so much so that it’s been nicknamed the “French California.” Many of the best surf beaches can be found in the French Basque’s beloved seaside towns, like Biarritz , which has also experienced an advent of new hotels and restaurants as of late, making it an ideal base for your Basque holiday. In Biarritz, you’ll find beginner beaches, like Côte des Basques or La Grande Plage, and Le Miramar for more advanced surfers. Another charming and lesser-known town nearby is Guethary, a tiny village with a surplus of great local restaurants and sceney sunset bars for post-surf fun. Among the best surf beaches in Guethary include the reef break of Parlementia, which shares its border with Bidart, another beloved surf town, and the more isolated beach of Alcyons. Intermediate surfers can also head to the neighboring town of Saint Jean de Luz to ride out one of the French Basque’s rare point breaks at Lafitenia beach.

Stay here: Regina Experimental Biarritz opened just last summer and is optimally located across the street from La Grande Plage.

Scenic Swims in Corsica

With its close proximity to Italy, located just 10 nautical miles from beautiful Sardinia, international travelers often overlook Corsica altogether when considering their options for a summer holiday in France. Their oversight leaves the island spared from crowds—save for the French families who return each summer to bask in their unspoiled paradise on the Med. From natural pools to secret coves to white sand beaches, Corsica is known for its pristine turquoise coastline. Tourists tend to flock to the southern part of the island, famous for its white sand beaches, like Palombaggia (the first tobacco-free beach on Corsica), Campomoro, Cupabia, and Roccapina, as well as its scenic bays, such as Cala di Conca and Fazzio. As southern Corsica is more built up with tourist stays, the northern beaches remain slightly more wild and untouched; among the best beaches in northern Corsica include Ostriconi, Lotu, Saleccia, and Bodri. But Corsica’s pristine swimming spots aren’t consigned to the island’s dazzling coastline—many of the island’s best swims can be found inland, in the natural pools concealed among the island’s many hiking trails and cultural sites, from les Piscines naturelles de Cavu to the Vallée du Fango and Ponte Vecchiu, and those fed by waterfalls like Polischellu and Aïtone.

Stay here: Nestled on the Cap Corse peninsula in the northeast corner of the island, Hôtel Misincu is a chic eco-luxury retreat on a 54-acre estate with a restaurant, spa, and pool. In the south, stay at the beloved family-run U Capu Biancu , a waterfront property overlooking the bay of Sant’ Amanza.

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Top 22 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in France

When most people think of France, they think of fine wine and cuisine, exceptional scenery, and a laid-back lifestyle that is the envy of the rest of the world. The gorgeously diverse landscape—inspired by centuries of influential writers, artists, and poets—includes huge mountain ranges, acres of green countryside, and long stretches of sparkling coastline.

I’m hugely in love with France and have been many times. So, from my many trips to this incredible country (and Paris aside), I’ve compiled this list…

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We can book your trip to stay in France’s beautiful places through our top-rated travel planning service !

1. Côte d’Azur

The sun-soaked Mediterranean coastline of southeast France, also known as the French Riviera, is a place I’m captivated by! 

The glamorous region has transfixed many famous visitors over the decades (including royalty, writers, and artists such as Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse). Its miles of gorgeous coastline and azure waters make it one of the best places to holiday in the world.

Once here, I recommend visiting the stylish coastal cities of Nice, Cannes, and St-Tropez—they remain exclusive holiday resorts where beautiful people reside even today!

2. Provence

A region in southeastern France bordering Italy and the Mediterranean Sea, the spectacular Provence countryside deserves a mention.

Head for the Luberon area (located at the heart of the Provence region). You’ll find the most stereotypical scenery of rural Provence – beautiful landscapes filled with seemingly endless lavender fields, lush olive groves, undulating vineyards and pretty ancient hilltop villages dotted with shutter-board houses.

Ensure you also include trips to the picturesque villages of Gordes, Baux-de-Provence, St. Rémy, and the dazzling walled city of Avignon. Long lazy days and alfresco lunches washed down with plenty of wine await you in this rural chic paradise! 

3. Loire Valley

An area of outstanding natural beauty in Europe, the Loire Valley is also affectionately known as the Garden of France. The valley spans over 280km and is located in central France’s beautiful middle stretch of the Loire River.

It is filled with so much culturally and historically important architecture that it has earned itself a World Heritage  site status .

One of the most visited regions in the country, it’s known for its large collection of fairytale-esque chateaus and mansions, exceptionally beautiful landscapes, and one of the most striking rivers in Europe. This is a tranquil bourgeois paradise that you won’t want to leave, I promise! 

Colmar is a picturesque town in the Grand Est region of northeastern France, close to the border with Germany . It is remarkable for its picturesque architecture and rich culture.

Colmar has many gorgeous gems, but I think one of the prettiest in Little Venice is where the scenic Lauch River flows through the town.

Stunning half-timbered houses line both sides of the river, and I’d recommend taking a boat ride through this section of the town for a wonderful treat.

The town’s architecture is historic and postcard-pretty, and highlights of visiting Colmar include the Old Town, the Pfister House, Route des Vins, Koighus, the Dominican Church, and Saint Martin Church.

5. Champagne-Ardenne

The birthplace of champagne is a very popular spot with wine trail tourists, and it’s a gorgeous, laid-back, and tranquil destination.

Champagne-Ardenne, located northeast of the country, has miles of Champagne trail routes, pristine and scenic countryside, medieval chateaus, and vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see.

Visit the region’s capital, Troyes, for its impressive art and architecture and Reims, for its famous cathedral and vast network of underground wine cellars. 

A video on our trip to France (with drone footage)…

Giverny is a riverside rural idyll located on the borders of Normandy in northern France (only an hour’s drive from Paris). It is most famous for being the birthplace of impressionism.

The small village was once Claude Monet’s cherished country retreat , and now his postcard-pretty pink shutter-board house and beautiful country gardens are open to the public.

Planted by Monet himself, the walled water garden (which inspired so many of his famous paintings) features white and purple wisterias, water lilies, weeping willows, bamboo, and the iconic green Japanese bridge!

7. The Dordogne

The Dordogne (which lies to the southwest of the country) is an exceptionally picturesque place that in my opinion will please even the most discerning of travellers! 

The region’s long roads and rivers wind through unspoiled pastures, spectacular gorges, charming medieval towns and villages of rich historical heritage. It’s also very famous for its prehistoric cave paintings in the Vézère Valley, like those in Lascaux Cave.

Visit the sacred pilgrim’s monuments en route to Santiago de Compostela, sample the local wines still produced by many of the chateaus, and explore the ancient fortified towns, such as the visually striking Beynac-et-Cazenac.

8. Burgundy

Burgundy is a popular tourist destination in east-central France. It is renowned for producing some of the world’s best wines. The region is also tranquil, with a pristine natural environment and dozens of picturesque villages to explore.

Burgundy is a historical area home to many of Europe’s most impressive Romanesque structures, including the Fontenay Abbey and Basilica of Vezelay. There are also many gorgeous castles to explore, including my favourites, the magnificent Chateau d’Ancy le Franc and Chateau de Cormatin.

One of the region’s most impressive natural assets is Morvan National Park , located in the heart of Burgundy. It has more than 1,000 square miles of pristine wilderness and is an excellent location for camping or hiking. 

9. Strasbourg

Strasbourg is located right on the border of Germany and France. I love that the popular and scenic heritage city has both countries’ charming characteristics and cultural flavours.

It’s a picturesque and romantic place with an energic buzz and famous for its riverfront half-timbered houses, gothic cathedral, and obvious fondness for flowers! It also makes a great base for those wishing to visit the nearby Black Forest or the River Rhine.

10. Corsica

Corsica is a stunning island in the Mediterranean just off the coast of southern France. It is a popular tourist destination known for its many pristine beaches, incredible scenery, and harbour town resorts.

More than 1,000 km of coastline surrounding Corsica provides visitors with plenty of fishing, boating, or swimming opportunities. The Mediterranean climate is a major drawcard, with the weather warm enough to enjoy the water all year round.

The most beautiful spots to visit in Corsica include the beaches of Désert des Agriates (white sand and crystal clear blue water), the Perched villages of la Balagne, Scandola Nature Reserve, the Gorges of Restonica & Tavignano, and the Fortress town of Bonifacio.

The Lavezzi Islands, located between Corsica and Sardinia, are also worth visiting.

11. Palace of Versailles

A wealthy suburb of Paris, Versailles is an important administrative centre and a proud tourist attraction.

It’s most famous for its chateau, the hugely grand and ornate Palace of Versailles, which once housed France’s kings (including the ill-fated Louis XVI and his wife Marie Antoinette).

Both the immaculate palace and manicured gardens are extraordinary. The palace offers a beautifully preserved insight into the lives of 18th-century French royalty before the start of the legendary French Revolution.

12. Annecy 

The French Alps are probably best known for their up-market ski resorts, but the region is also home to some very attractive towns that make for lovely places to visit in both summer and winter.

One that stands out is Annecy, also known as the ‘Venice of Savoie. ‘ This gorgeous and romantic city is interspersed with small canals and has a postcard-pretty 14th-century Chateau.

With its unique central focal point, the backdrop of beautiful mountains, and a stunning Old Town home to cobbled streets, winding canals and pastel-coloured houses, Annecy is one of the most photogenic I’ve ever been to!

13. Mont Saint-Michel and the rest of the Normandy region

Second only to the Eiffel Tower as France’s best-loved landmark, Mont St-Michel is a rocky, peaked island connected by a causeway to northwest France.

It’s an imposing sight amid sprawling sandbanks and powerful tides, but the heritage site is chiefly celebrated for its unique Gothic-style Benedictine abbey.

Directly below the grand monastery is a medieval village with winding streets dotted with small houses and souvenir shops. You should also spend a few days exploring the rest of Normandy, as it’s such a pretty region.

It has history and lush green landscapes, except for dry-stone farmhouses, chalk-white cliffs, half-timbered buildings, and picturesque chateaus. The historically important site of the Normandy Landing beaches and the famous Bayeux tapestry are also located here.

14. Brittany

Brittany is a coastal region filled with jagged coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, quaint coastal fishing villages, majestic chateaux, and dozens of medieval towns just waiting to be explored.

I recommend visiting the area to enjoy the authentic culture, wonderful scenery, delicious food, and a relaxing, laid-back atmosphere.

Along Brittany’s coastline, there are dozens of beautiful places to visit, including the cliffs of Pointe du Raz, Cap Fréhel, and the Crozon peninsula.

The beaches are also a major drawcard, with Ploumanac’h, Morgat, and Quiberon being the most popular. If you head inland, you can visit Brocéliande forest, parish closes, or the amazing megalithic standing stones at Carnac.

Lyon is the country’s second-most important city after Paris. It is a historic city with a rich culture and beautiful architecture. The UNESCO World Heritage city is home to some of the world’s most precious ancient ruins, Roman structures, and medieval buildings.

Lyon is located at the confluence of the Rhône and the Saône Rivers, which is scenic and one reason it is a romantic destination.

Its many narrow, winding streets and ancient buildings enhance the city’s romance. There are dozens of beautiful places within Lyon, but we loved the atmospheric Quartier Saint-Jean because of its medieval buildings and cobblestone lanes.

The Place Neuve Saint-Jean is also a must-see. It is a picturesque square with many shops and traditional restaurants — the perfect location for a romantic dinner.

Other gorgeous spots in Lyon include Colline de la Croix-Rousse (a historic neighbourhood built on sloping streets), Presqu’ile District (stunning architecture and town squares), and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourviere.

17. Rhône-Alpes

Rhône-Alpes is a beautiful region located in the southeast of the country. Its diverse landscape includes mountain ranges (including the famous Mont Blanc), winding canyons, gentle valleys dotted with hundreds of farms and vineyards, and its dormant volcano, the Puy-de-Dôme.

It is difficult to describe the incredible and tranquil beauty of this country’s natural environment, so I would say it has to be experienced first-hand to be appreciated!

There are dozens of spectacular locations to visit, including Gorges de l’Ardeche — a series of winding gorges in Ardèche. Lake Geneva is another must-see location if you are visiting the region.

It is a vast natural lake shared between Switzerland and France. It’s the perfect location for boating, swimming and water skiing in the warmer months.

Another one of my favourite locations is Les Pertes de le Valserine — a tranquil river walk in Bellegarde sur Valserine. It showcases the region’s natural beauty, including its varied flora and fauna. Rhône-Alpes is also home to many charming towns and cities. They include Lyon (Rhône), Grenoble (Isère), Saint-Étienne (Loire), Valence (Drôme), and Chambéry (Savoie).

The best time to visit Rhone-Alpes is during the summer months (July to August) and ski season (December to March). 

18. Auvergne

Auvergne is a unique region located in the country’s centre. Now part of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, the landscape in Auvergne has been shaped by ancient volcanoes into a series of mountain ridges, craters and valleys called the Chaîne des Puys. The landscape is dramatic, impressive, and very tranquil.

It’s a slow-paced part of France, home to many ski resorts, farms, and country towns. Because this area is mostly rural, there are multiple areas of pristine natural beauty to enjoy.

Auvergne’s volcanic past is obvious, with huge craggy rock outcrops and abundant natural hot springs. The region’s largest city, Clermont-Ferrand, also showcases the region’s volcanic history well.

The best option for viewing the region’s spectacular mountains is the Panoramique des Dômes — the youngest volcano in the Chaîne des Puys. It has a high viewing platform that offers visitors incredible views.

I personally stayed at the wonderful Volca Lodges , which offers eco-friendly glamping style accommodation with hot tubs on the balconies overlooking the spectacular countryside (pictured above).

19. Midi-Pyrénées 

The south of France has a well-deserved reputation for being a stunning spot! The region encompasses the French Pyrenees, including the stunning Pic du Midi de Bigorre, Cirque de Gavarnie, and Néouvielle Massif.

The mountains are gorgeous, with many valleys and foothills to explore. Wonderful bodies of water include Lake Gaube, Lac de Genos, and Bethmale Lake.

The lakes in Midi-Pyrénées are fantastic for camping and hiking. There are countless charming villages to explore, including Conques, Rocamadour, and St-Bertrand-de-comminges. Toulon is the largest city in the region, packed with art, culture, and incredible architecture.

20. Languedoc

Languedoc is a historical coastal region in southern France. It stretches from Provence to the Pyrenees Mountains and the border with Spain. This part of France benefits from a warm Mediterranean climate and has a pristine natural environment.

It is one of the most geographically diverse regions in the country, with wetlands, mountains, sandy beaches, and arid stretches of land near the southern border.

The coastline has many incredible beaches and bustling cities such as Montpellier and Nîmes. Venturing inland, you will find the wild country of the Grands Causses and Cévennes. Heading south, the landscape becomes drier, and the Spanish influence becomes more obvious.

I would highly recommend exploring Pont du Gard (a Roman aqueduct), the Cap d’Agde seaside resort, Cité de Carcassonne (a medieval citadel), Gorges du Tarn, and Château de Quéribus (a ruined castle in the commune of Cucugnan).

21. Gorge du Verdon

Sometimes referred to as the Grand Canyon of Europe, it is a 25-kilometer long and 700-metre-deep natural canyon located in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence in southeastern France.

Gorges du Verdon is named after the wonderful green water of the Verdon River (“vert” is French for green).

This incredible natural gorge has been attracting tourists to the region since the mid-19th century and is still extremely popular. Here, you can kayak, go canoeing, go for a canyon walk, hike or even go for a ‘water walk.’

Located in the French Riviera on the Mediterranean Sea, Nice la Belle, as the locals know it, receives 4 million tourists every year. It’s a gorgeous and elegant city where the beautiful and the well-heeled hang out in droves.

Apart from its charming, quaint streets of Old Town, the (pebbly) beach, fine hotels, gorgeous boutique and panoramic views, it is famous for the popular Carnival de Nice, which I would highly recommend trying to time your visit around if you can (it takes place February to March).

When here, I would also highly recommend taking a day trip to Saint Tropez and glitzy Monaco. Alternatively, you can stay local and make the most of the beach and the town. Promenade des Anglais is a great option if you want to have a stroll or a jog! 

53 thoughts on “Top 22 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in France”

Awesome and lovely post! Lots of stunning shots of very beautiful places. Love this blog so much!

I’m from Vietnam. can you please suggest a 5 day itinerary of places in France and what are the places. And give me suggest the cost for 5 days. Thanks

All these places are amazing & beautiful. Nice picture collection as well.

Wow, amazing pictures. Something more to see than Paris in France! Thanks 🙂

Hi me and my boyfriend are travelling to France in September arriving at Calais first .We will be driving and hopefully wanting to see as much of France in 5 days as we can .Any suggestions as to where to go to see some beautiful seenary

This is an awesome article i love it, thnx Becky Padmore for this beautiful article. France is one of the most beautiful country in the world and it is also include in top ten beautiful countries in the world.

France is considered as one of the most beautiful country in the world and tourists appreciate this country for its heavenly beauty!

I think instead of visiting Strasbourg try to visit the small villages down south on the way to Colmar, it’s one of the best road trip I’ve done in France. The name of the road is ‘la route des vins’ (wine’s road). Some villages are definitely much more beautiful than Strasbourg.

France has it all, wine,food and women

really very nice….

My girlfriend and I will be traveling to France in December. We will be flying into Milan, Italy first and then driving into France. My question is, what part (North or South) of France would you recommend seeing during the winter? We both are looking for the small village, but we will be visiting Paris sometime during our visit.

Hi, nice article …. can you please suggest a 8 days itinerary of places in france and what are the places we can cover from the list above in 8-9 days

France is beautiful

it is of course

Agreed!! Loire Valley is the best. With the numerous Chateaux and vineyards, one just falls in love with the region. So much to see and do!!!

I have only been to Paris years ago and would like to explore more of France. Thinking of going there for a week with husband (no car) where would you suggest we could squeeze in for a week with a few day trips thrown in. Hard to choose from the blog which is the nicest area to go.

We’d suggest basing yourselves in the Luberon area of Provence and then including day trips to Baux-de-Provence, St. Rémy and the walled city of Avignon. It’s a truly beautiful area which will give you a taste of a perfectly preserved traditional France.

Thanks Graham for this helpful info regarding where to visit in France. Do you have your own website? Maria NS, Canada

Dahh..I see this is it 🙂 Cheers, Maria

I am on a 7 day trip to Europe taking a delivery of Mercedes at Stuttgart. I will be driving from Stuttgart to Paris for 4 days in April 2014 and would like to spend 3 days in Paris. Any suggestions on places which we can visit along the way. Please let me know. I have no clue on what to plan and places to visit.

Hi Ram Ram we would suggest stopping at Strasbourg, Metz and the Champagne region (including Reims). Enjoy your trip!

Nice post. Awesome images.

This will surely help in exploring france.

France is also a great place for a honeymoon, it’s very romantic and has some really gorgeous countryside.

I loved the french riveria… Its just beautiful and awesome. I went to NICE and Cannes. Attended festivals. It was out of this world

Great post! My wife and I are heading to France for four nights and five days this summer as part of a mini-European tour through Belgium and Holland as well.

I think it’s going to be difficult for us to hit all of these spots this time, however, especially as we’ll probably lose two days to Paris. Any recommendations as to which of these places should not be missed on a first visit to France?

Hi Ed, If you’re going to Paris then you could include a trip to Versailles without too much difficulty. Then I would personally try to fit in as much as the Côte d’Azur and then some places in the Provence countryside including Baux-de-Provence, St. Rémy and Avignon. Hope this helps!

Hi, what about Lyon? Would you recommend going there?

Hi Gwen, Lyon is a lovely city but head further to Burgundy and you’ll find some of the finest French countryside.

I really liked Lyon, particularly the older area and cathedral. Didn’t get to see a lot of countryside, ply that from the train on way to paris. But I could easily see living in Lyon.

i love going to france . i goes once in every year

i love visiting france .once in a year i always o there

France is so beautiful, thanks for sharing these amazing places.

Some truly inspiring photos here – I don’t know which one is the best !

Thank you. Only last week I was looking for places to visit in France, near to Paris. More info about Loire valley will be welcome.

I just wanted to say I have been a long time follower and I appreciate all of your writing. A lot of work must go into putting out quality content like this. Thanks again.

WHen i see all those places i really like to visit France.

soooooooooo helpful

hi becky i like your informatoin about france thank you

A good choice but no mention of the Pays Basque ! La plus belle pays !

I love when i’m france it’s the best country the best in the world

i have been to France before and loved it! So pretty!

loved looking at the potoes

Hi i loved looking at this photos it made me fell like i was there i have fished my home work now thanks to you.

yup i have now gotten some of my homework done bow i just need to write a booklet on a tour f france!!!! helpful? definetly. France would be on the top ten list of places i would go to.

Thankyou for this helped me lots.

thanks i have a school project on france and this really helped 🙂

Becky, these photos are unbelievable! WOW!

I’ve been to about half on this list, with the Loire Valley being my favourite. Now you’ve got me wanting to go back to see the rest! Thanks for sharing!

Thanks, it was very helpful 😉

I have been to lots of different countries but not France,maybe its time I did , looks interesting.

I LOVE France! thanks for sharing! Been to most of the places on this list…but there’s still so much more to see… I would like to add La Rochelle to this list as it’s my fav city in France. Really lovely!

Hey thanks Yvonne, yes it was very hard to choose just ten! Thanks for the comment we’ve just added a link to an article about La Rochelle as one of our writers went there and loved it too!

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Where to go in France: the ultimate guide on the 29 best places to see other than Paris

Do you want to see more than the Eiffel Tower when you go to France? Read our detailed guide about where to go in France, including a summary of the regions and a list of some of the best places to visit.

Gabrielle Budget Travel With Gabby

Jun 12, 2023

France is an incredibly diverse and beautiful country in Western Europe . It is one of the most popular tourist destinations around the world , though much of the country remains traditional and free from heavy tourism.

On any France itinerary, you will most likely stop in Paris. 

Paris , the capital city of France, known as the city of love, is home to world-famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Arc Du Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral, and more. But there is so much more to France outside of this iconic metropolis. 

Enjoy sipping coffee in outdoor cafes, strolling along the Seine River , and taking day trips to places like the UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Palace of Versailles . And definitely tour the Louvre Museum , one of the world’s most famous art museums, and see many works by Leonardo Da Vinci, including the Mona Lisa .

But this article will explore where to go in France besides Paris! F rom the peaks of the Alps to the castles and vineyards of the countryside, to the beaches of the French Riviera , there are so many amazing places to visit in France.

And whether you’re interested in food and wine, skiing and snowboarding, nature, and hiking, or history, culture , and art, France has it all.

Trying to plan a trip to France can be overwhelming as there are so many different regions, cities, and small towns. There is a wide variety of landscapes as well. We’ll start with an overview of some of the best regions in France. It would take a long time to fully dissect all the different areas of this country, but we can provide a general overview of some of the highlights.

We’ll also explain how work exchanges in France work, for those who want an extra immersive cultural experience . And we’ll provide some links to interesting work exchanges in different areas of the country.

Let’s get it started!

Where to go in France besides Paris?

France is a relatively large European country that is split into many different regions and subregions. There are metropolitan regions and geographical regions, and many would disagree on how many actual regions there are in France.

For the purpose of this article about where to go in France, I’ll just mention a few of the most popular regions of France. These are some beautiful spots that attract tourists from around the world!

Though Paris is the most famous location in France, we want to highlight the other gorgeous spots in France. Paris is a convenient spot to start any France itinerary , as there are lots of international flights that head into Paris, but once you have seen the top sights in Paris, make sure you venture out to explore more of these regions.

Though there are many more areas of France to visit besides these regions listed, this is just a basic overview of the country and where travelers might like to visit. Hopefully, this gives you some inspiration for your France itinerary and gives you insight into where to go in France.

1. Bordeaux

This region is the wine capital of France , and it attracts wine connoisseurs and foodies from all over the world. Bordeaux offers culinary delights and some of the world's best wines. Famous grapes like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Sauvignon Blanc originated here, and there are lots of wine-related events in the region.

Bordeaux is also the name of the region’s capital city, but there is a lot to see and do outside the city. There are plenty of castles, vineyards, wine festivals, small towns, historic monuments such as the Gothic Cathédrale Saint-André, and local markets to see in this area of France near the Atlantic Coast.

The charming and historic region of Alsace is another one of the best places to visit in France. 

Located next to Germany and Switzerland , and located on the upper Rhine River, Alsace is a melting pot of European cultures . Including beautiful villages, the incredible city of Strasbourg, and German influences, there is amazing architecture, food, and wine in Alsace.

Strasbourg is a charming city on the Rhine River and is the capital city of the Alsace region. Its most famous landmark is the Gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame , though it’s the scenic canals, colorful houses, and picturesque streets that give Strasbourg its charm.

3. Brittany

Anyone wondering where to go in France should definitely head to the northwest and visit Brittany . This region is known for its Celtic roots , and you can find many British-style villages.

Brittany is also located on the Atlantic Coast, and there is dramatic, natural coastal scenery here including remnants of prehistoric times . Popular villages in the region include Lannion, Saint-Malo, and Nantes, and there are lots of beaches, historic seaports, and offshore islands as well.

Nantes is a historic city that is full of culture and beauty . Often referred to as one of the greenest cities in France, Nantes has lots of parks and gardens next to its museums and historic buildings. 

Be sure to check out the Medieval Château des Ducs de Bretagne, where the Dukes of Brittany used to live.

5. Dordogne Valley

Located in Southwestern France, the Dordogne Valley is the duck and truffle capital of France , so treat yourself to some gourmet local cuisine while you’re here.

Full of medieval towns, delicious food, and impressive castles,  it’s not super touristy, but travelers love exploring the historic and traditional towns like Martel, Sarlat, Issigeac, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Rocamadour.  

The Castle of Rocamadour is definitely a highlight, a place you should see no matter what. Full of religious buildings and historic statues , such as the one of the Blessed Virgin Mary , it's a place to feel at peace and connect with your beliefs. 

Sarlat is one of the most beautiful small villages to visit. There are historic buildings, public squares lined with local cafes, and a relaxing, authentic atmosphere.

You can even volunteer with locals in the Dordogne Valley! Help with gardening and renovations at this local farm . With just 5 hours of work per day, you get free accommodation and plenty of free time to go exploring the city.

6. Loire Valley

Another gorgeous region of France is the Loire Valley. Though this area doesn’t have many big, well-known cities, it’s most famous for its charming small towns, cycling routes, and extravagant chateaus, castles, and homes.  

People head to the Loire Valley to explore France’s scenic countryside and dive into its cultural heritage . You can find vineyards, castles, adorable local towns, and more.

7. Normandy

This region in northern France is mostly well-known for its history. Many historic landmarks and sites reside in Normany, including the D-Day Landing: Omaha Beach site and the famous hilltop abbey: Mont Saint-Michel.

The image of Mont Saint-Michel is legendary: a Gothic-style abbey sitting atop a rocky outcrop on an island off of France’s northern coast. The abbey was constructed sometime in the 16th Century and served as a sanctuary for some of the greatest minds in Europe throughout history.

Aside from many more historic churches, monuments, and statues, Normany is also known for its coastal beauty. You can find chalky white cliffs, stunning seaside resorts, and peaceful beaches.

8. Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpe Region of southeast-central France has a little bit of everything. 

In the southern part of the region, the climate is more coastal and there are lots of canyons and hills. The center, west, and north of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpe have more vineyards, castles, and orchards.  In the eastern part of the region, you’ll find a more alpine climate with dramatic mountains. Natural beauty thrives throughout the region.

There are also big cities like Lyon, small local villages, and mountain resorts. The region is also a foodie’s paradise, and there are lots of delicious local meat dishes and soups.

9. French Alps

Though the French Alps are technically part of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes région, I listed them as their own area because they are so special and arguably one of the most beautiful places in Europe. Any outdoorsy travelers who are wondering where to go in France, add the French Alps to your France itinerary!

Here you can find the impressive peak of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Europe. Aside from mountains that are ideal for skiing and snowboarding, you can also explore lakes, waterfalls, rivers, valleys, and forests , all of which are great for hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, camping, and more.

10. Burgundy

Located in east-central France, Burgundy is a region famous for its wines such as Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. 

In addition to wine, Burgundy is also known for its history, art, and culture . Dijon is the capital city of the region and is home to some incredible historic palaces and art galleries. There are also lots of farms, lakes, and forests scattered throughout the region.

11. Provence

Provence is a large region in the south of the country that encompasses many highlights of the country. Home to the city of Marseilles, many hilltop villages, and gorgeous stretches of farms and lavender fields , this is a great place to sightsee in the French countryside.

Provence is home to the Côte d'Azur, which is also referred to as the French Riviera . Here you can find popular beach resort towns like Biarritz and Cannes.

12. Saint-Tropez 

Saint-Tropez is a glamorous resort town on the French Riviera and it's definitely the perfect place to treat yourself to a ritzy holiday. 

Though it’s expensive, Saint-Tropez has exquisite beaches, delicious fresh seafood, and a thriving nightlife. There is always something fun going on in Saint-Tropez, and the views of the Mediterranean are incredible. 

This stunning city on the French Riviera is another one of the best places to visit in France. 

Check out the Old Town, sunbathe on the beach, walk the oceanfront promenades, and indulge in some delicious Southern French street food . If you’re into art and history, visit the Musée Matisse, an art museum dedicated to the famous painter.

Those looking to see some natural beauty on the edge of the Mediterranean Sea should head to Cassis. This fishing port in southern France has lovely beaches, walking trails, vineyards, and historic chateaux. It is also near Calanques National Park, where you can go hiking in nature.

There is a cool work exchange opportunity near Cassis : helping with housekeeping and gardening for a local family-run guesthouse. 

15. Antibes

History lovers wondering where to go in the South of France should include Antibes in their France itinerary. 

This city on the French Riviera has the quintessential Mediterranean beaches , but it also has an impressive Medieval Quarter and the famous Picasso Museum . Nature lovers can embark on the beautiful coastal walk known as Chemin des Douaniers.

16. Avignon

Another remarkable spot in the South of France is Avignon. Surrounded by historic city walls and ramparts, this town feels like a living history museum . 

Be sure to check out the 14th Century Palais des Papes, which is the largest Gothic palace in Europe .

This beautiful city in northern France near the border with Belgium is not too far from Paris. So those wondering where to go in France besides Paris, you can take a trip north to Lille! Check out the scenic Old Town full of museums and local markets .

Also look out for the impressive ​​17th-century Citadel, and the Braderie de Lille, which is the biggest flea market in Europe.

18. Montgenèvre

This charming ski town near the Italian Border is one of the best places to base yourself for a visit to the French Alps. 

There is some incredible skiing to be done here, as well as lots of cozy mountain resorts where you can relax after a day on the slopes.

19. Marseille

Often referred to as the Oldest City in France, Marseille is one of the best places to visit on the Mediterranean Coast. 

With historic basilicas and important seaports , this city near the mouth of the Rhône River has served as a hub for trade and commerce throughout history. The city dates back to ancient times, and nowadays it is one of France’s largest port cities.

20. Lyon 

One of France’s largest and most amazing cities is Lyon. Though the history of Lyon dates back 2,000 years, all the way to Roman times, the city is very modern and exciting nowadays. 

The nightlife is incredible and there are often music festivals and events . The city is also home to an Old Town, as well as sights that reflect its history such as the Roman Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules.

For a cool cultural experience, try a work exchange out in the countryside near Lyon . You can help out at a local guesthouse by helping with painting and gardening.

21. Chamonix

One of the highest towns in France, Chamonix is another one of the most gorgeous places in the country. Located high in the French Alps, this town is situated near the borders of Switzerland and Italy.

This is the best place to base yourself for a visit to Mont Blanc, as the town sits right at the base of the mountain. When you’re not skiing or hiking, you can ride the cable cars up into the mountains and enjoy the most breathtaking views of the French Alps.

This city on the French Riviera is most famous for the Cannes Film Festival, where movie stars and celebrities from all over the world congregate for a night of celebrating the best performances in film.

The affluence and luxury from the festival linger year-round. Cannes is very much an expensive, high-end destination full of fancy hotels and resorts. But if you have some money to spend, a visit here is worth it. The beaches are gorgeous and you can take day trips to various islands in the Mediterranean.

23. Giverny

Located in Normandy, Giverny is a romantic French village that is most well known for being the residence of the famous painter, Claude Monet . You can tour his residence and the surrounding gardens, as well as visit other art museums. 

In the summer months, Giverny is a dream. All the flowers are in bloom and the village erupts in natural colors and greenery.

This scenic Alsace town sits near the base of the southern Vosges Mountains and is easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in France. It’s located in the heart of the Alsace wine region, so there is lots of delicious food and wine here.

With an adorable Old Town full of colorful and traditional architecture, Colmar is a photographer’s paradise. Check out all the historic monuments, cathedrals, and museums , and begin your journey in the heart of the Old Town: the Place de la Cathédrale.

This city in Northeastern France is the unofficial capital of the Champagne wine-growing region . If you haven’t had enough wine tasting in France yet, here you taste some of the world’s best sparkling white wines . 

Other things to do in Reims besides wine tasting include visiting some incredible museums and the Reims-Gueux Formula 1 circuit , which formerly hosted the French Grand Prix Formula 1 motor racing competition.

As the capital of the Burgundy region of eastern France, Dijon is another one of the best places to visit in France. You may recognize the name of the city for one of its most famous products: Dijon Mustard.

The area is also famous for gingerbread, and of course, wine. Vineyard tours are one of the top activities from Dijon, as are visits to the local museums, food festivals, and palaces.

27. Aix-en-Provence

This beautiful city used to be the capital of the Provence region, and many say that the city summarizes all the best parts of the region. 

With landscapes that look like they are straight out of an Impressionist painting, as well as lavender fields, charming towns, and eateries with authentic local food and wine , Aix-en-Provence has it all. You can even drive to the seaside or the mountains in just a few hours.

The mountain town of Annecy is a stunning village in southeastern France. 

Located near the lakes and mountains of the French Alps, this charming local town is perfect for those who want to explore nature. Year-round, the town is a gorgeous place to visit. The cobblestone streets and quaint, colorful buildings of the Old Town showcase the best of French architecture and charm.

29. Carcassonne

Last but not least on this list of the best places to visit in France is ​​Carcassonne. This walled city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is most known for its La Cité, which is like an Old Town.

This historic center has impressive cathedrals and monuments, all of which are surrounded by medieval fortified walls . The lower part of town, the Bastide Saint-Louis area, is home to more modern shops and cafés.

Work Exchanges in France

While traveling through France, a great way to learn about the local culture and save money on accommodation is through a Worldpackers work exchange .

When you do a work exchange, you can live with locals and immerse yourself in their way of life. Living with French people is the best way to learn French as well!

And you are working for accommodation , so you can save money and enjoy a free place to stay. Often you get valuable work experience and you can learn useful life skills.

If you’re wondering where to go in France to really immerse yourself in the culture, work exchanges are incredible. Popular types of work exchanges include helping out at a local, family-run guesthouse or volunteering on a farm or eco-program.

Whether you want to live with a French family or work with your hands out in nature, there are lots of cool opportunities.

There are 80 Worldpackers work exchanges in France . Here are some great examples of work exchanges that you can find around the country.

• Guest house in Loire Valley - Volunteer at an authentic 19th Century French home
• Homestay in Normandy - Help out in the garden and care for rescue animals at this homestay in Normandy. 
• Holistic Center in Southern France - Help with gardening and farming at this vegan-friendly eco-program. 
• Artist retreat in Northern France - Work as a web developed in the small commune of Quesnoy-le-Montant at an interactive artist's retreat
• Homestay in Northern France - Help out with gardening and other daily tasks and learn about the French lifestyle and culture
• Local project in Central France - Help build a medieval Gothic edifice among local and international volunteers 

There are many more work exchanges to check out. Browse the Worldpackers website to find the perfect work exchange for you!

Thanks for reading about where to go in France!

Hopefully, this summary of the country has given you an idea about where you’d like to visit. There are so many stunning regions of France, from the lavender fields of Provence to the beaches of Normandy and the adorable villages of Brittany or Alsace.

There are also lots of cosmopolitan cities in France such as the famous Paris, the exciting Lyon, and the ancient Marseille.

And be sure to check out the Worldpackers work exchanges in France so you can have a local experience and save money on accommodation.

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Gabrielle Boucher

Budget Travel With Gabby

Hello! I am a 25 year old from the USA with a knack for traveling on a budget. I fell in love with traveling while studying in Europe, and that love grew even more when I started volunteering abroad in South America. Since then, I've worked odd jobs and volunteered all over the globe while cultivating passions for hiking, wildlife photography, food, wine, animals, permaculture, and more!

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Dec 26, 2022

J,aime Paris

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Je n'ai pas partir en France mais j'aime France

Dec 27, 2022

Beautiful ❤️

Apr 04, 2023

Great article! France truly is a country that everyone should have on their travel bucket list. The art, culture, cuisine, and architecture are all mesmerizing, making it one of the most visited cities globally. Your article highlights the top reasons to visit Paris. I also recommend checking out the blog which provides insightful information on attractions, culture and destinations, in France . Thanks for sharing this amazing article! The blog link: https://f0od-f0r-y0u.000webhostapp.com/2023/04/most-visited-country-in-the-world

Apr 09, 2023

Je suis intéressé 🤍

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First-time France: where to go and what to do

Jul 13, 2021 • 5 min read

From the beauty of Provence to the history of the D-Day beaches, here's inspiration for a first-time visitor to France © Daniel Harwardt / Shutterstock

France is the world’s top tourist destination for good reason – artistic and architectural masterpieces, remarkable museums and natural landscapes , and a history harking back far beyond the Romans.  Top it off with fine wine, food, and a culinary culture that permeates through every city and small town. This first-timer's guide to things to do in France can help you narrow down the best places to go, along with other top tips to make the most of your visit.

France’s chic, sexy capital has to be experienced at least once. Mix picture-postcard icons with simple Parisian moments and you'll truly fall in love with the city. Scale the Eiffel Tower then walk or cycle along the Seine, or cruise down it on a bateau-mouche .  Stroll by  Notre Dame , which is closed for extensive renovation works following the 2019 fire, and grab a coffee at Café Saint-Régis , ice-cream at Berthillon  or super juice at literary cafe of mythical bookshop Shakespeare & Company . Hit the Louvre then collapse on a bench with a Pierre Hermé macaron in the Tuileries or Jardin du Palais Royal . Delve into hilltop Montmartre with a local Paris Greeter . Escape to posh leafy Versailles and come back blown away by France’s most famous chateau .

You might like:  When is the best time to go to Paris?

Loire Valley

The lush Loire Valley  is scattered with stunning French castles, or  châteaux . Stand in awe of the Renaissance castle Château de Chambord , and graceful Château de Chenonceau astride the Cher River. Château de Blois , with its whistle-stop tour of French architecture, and classical Château de Cheverny  is the perfect one-day combo. In summer put the gardens at Château de Villandry and Château d’Azay-le-Rideau after dark on your hit list. Base yourself in Tours , Blois or Amboise ; hire a bike to pedal along the Loire riverbanks at least once; and try to catch a son-et-lumière  (sound-and-light) show.

French Riviera

This strip of seashore on the big blue Med has it all – hence the extreme crowds in summer. The seaside town of Nice is the queen of the Riviera with its cutting-edge art museums, belle époque architecture, pebble beaches and legendary promenade. Take glitzy day trips keeping an eye out for film stars in Cannes , Formula One drivers in Monaco , and hobnobbing celebs and socialites in St-Tropez . Sensational views make the drive along the three coastal roads from Nice to Menton an absolute must. Otherwise, grab your hiking boots and stride out in the fiery Massif de l’Estérel for brilliant red-rock mountain scenery.

Check all devices are fully charged: the extraordinary light and landscape in this part of France’s south demands constant snapping and sharing. Start with Marseille , a millennia-old port with striking museums such as the anthropological  MuCEM and coastline straight off a film set. Inland, zoom in on glorious Roman amphitheaters and aqueducts in Nîmes , Orange and at the Pont du Gard. Drive past lavender fields and cherry orchards to hilltop villages and food markets in the bucolic Luberon and Vaucluse regions. No lens is large enough for the peak of Mont Ventoux (a cyclist's paradise) or the Gorges du Verdon , Europe’s deepest canyon with 2620ft (800m) sheer-drop cliffs and startling emerald green water, no filter required.

The sparkling viticulture region of Champagne in northern France is all class. Where else can you sip champers in centuries-old cellars and taste your way through vineyards and medieval villages straight out of a Renoir painting? Stay in Reims (pronounced something similar to "rance") or Épernay to visit Pommery, Mumm, Moët & Chandon and other big-name Champagne houses. In Reims, pick a clear day to scale the tower of the cathedral where dozens of French kings were crowned. From both towns, scenic Champagne driving routes thrust motorists into the heart of this intoxicating region.

Brittany and Normandy

A wind-buffeted part of northern France, Brittany  and  Normandy were created especially for outdoor fiends and history buffs with sensational seafood, cliff-top walks, a craggy coastline and ancient sights steeped in lore and legend. Top billing is Mont St-Michel , a magical mysterious abbey-island, best approached barefoot across the sand with a guide. Hire a bicycle to explore the Carnac megaliths strewn along Brittany’s southern coast (wear a windbreaker). Normandy’s time-travel masterpiece is the Bayeux tapestry but it's the heart-wrenching  D-Day beaches and WWII war cemeteries nearby that will really take you back to a moment in history.

Read more:  How to explore the D-Day beaches

French Alps

The French Alps is one massive outdoor playground, which pumps during the ski season (December to April) when insanely challenging slopes and trails entice adrenaline junkies from everywhere. Mont Blanc prevails, and party town Chamonix is the place to get up close to its might and majesty – the mountain panorama from the top of the Aiguille du Midi  cable car is the best there is, whatever the season. If small and chic is more your style then strap on the skis in Megéve-St-Gervais. To let rip after dark over hardcore après-ski head to Val d’Isère or Méribel and Courchevel in Les Trois Vallées.

• Walking shoes
• French phrasebook
• Lonely Planet's Paris City Guides App
• Adaptor for France’s two-pin plugs
• Raincoat and umbrella (particularly for Paris and northern climes)
• Sunscreen and mosquito repellent (particularly for southern France)
• Detailed road map and/or GPS device

Essential phrases

Hello: Bonjour Good afternoon: Bon après-midi Good evening: Bonne soirée Goodbye: Au revoir Please: S ’il vous plaît Thank you: Merci  Do you speak English?: Parlez-vous anglais? I am lost!: Je suis perdu! Please can I reserve a table for two/four people: Je voudrais réserver une table pour deux/quatre personnes s’il vous plaît.

Getting around

Regular trains link cities and main towns. Check schedules and buy tickets at SNCF . Traveling around by car buys freedom, flexibility and a ticket to rural France. Motorists drive on the right side of the road and pay to use autoroutes (motorways). Plot routes, toll and fuel costs with autoroutes .

Bicycle is a brilliant way of navigating towns and cities, including Paris. Sleek cycling paths link sights in the gorgeous and flat Loire Valley, Provence (not so flat) and Brittany. Research routes with  France Vélo Tourisme .

Read more:  How to get around in France

You might also like:

14 of the best places to visit in France    Do you need a visa to go to France?    The 12 best beaches in France   

Article first published in June 2015 and last updated in July 2021.

This article was first published June 2019 and updated July 2021

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• The First MICHELIN Key Hotels: All the Keys in France

The MICHELIN Guide announces top honors for French hotels in 2024.

MICHELIN Keys France Hotels

Paris by The MICHELIN Guide

See the Paris guide

On April 8, 2024, the MICHELIN Guide revealed the brand new One, Two, and Three Key distinctions for the most outstanding hotels in France.

This announcement comes four years into a comprehensive refresh of our hotel selection. The MICHELIN Guide now includes over 5,000 hotels across the world, and not a single one is simply a room for the night. These are places that significantly add to your experience as a traveler, each vetted and judged excellent in five categories: architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, value for the price, and a significant contribution to the guest experience in a particular setting. Which brings us back to the Keys. The culmination of countless hours of evaluation by our team of experts, the Key hotels below represent the highlights of our broader selection. Like the MICHELIN Stars for restaurants, the MICHELIN Keys are our most outstanding hotels. In total, the 2024 MICHELIN Guide hotel selection in France includes 24 Three Key hotels, 38 Two Key hotels, and 127 One Key hotels. Want to know more about the MICHELIN Key? Here’s everything you need to know . Or, head below to look at all the Keys.

How To Look Through the List

Jump straight to the list or take a deeper dive into select key hotels..

Take a peek at the top-floor suite of the only chateau hotel in Paris. See what makes this hotel among the greatest art museums in the country. Or find out more about the wine hotel that uses an entire town as its foundation. Subscribe to our newsletter for more like this.

Highlights of the France 2024 Key Hotel List

The Palaces: A Distinctly French High Luxury

Expect: Butler service, high quality spas, and sumptuous spare-no-expense design. The government of France itself bestows an official Palace designation, with French tourism officials judging the most luxurious hotels in France to ensure they provide particular amenities and services (a spa, a multilingual check-in desk, a concierge service, etc.) and an excellent representation of the country. Out of 31 official palace hotels in France, many earned at least one Key — and several make up our Three Key hotels. Of the palaces that earned at least One Key, you’ll find a mix of the most historic ( the Four Seasons George V ), the most modern ( Le K2 Palace ), and the newer takes on the traditional form ( La Réserve Paris ). All are exceptional. Also read: Every Three Key Hotel in Paris

The Country Darlings: Chateaus and Vineyards

Our first annual list of Key hotels in France confirms the supremacy of these two mainstays: chateau and vineyard accommodations. Look to Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey and Château de la Gaude as particular examples of Two Key hotels that combine both. Or look just outside Bordeaux, to Les Sources de Caudalie . Built on a natural hot spring and operated by the famous Caudalie beauty brand, it’s a particularly fascinating Three Key property on the grounds of the Château Smith Haut-Lafitte vineyard.

Paris 2024: Little Boutiques Full of Hip, Trendy Design and Endless Color

We’re thrilled that in our inaugural Key distinctions we can celebrate an especially strong crop of small, design-forward boutique hotels that are anything but content to be conventional. With bright, colorful design that’s of the moment, they’re grounded in technical know-how, impeccable taste, and informed by a fascinating, sometimes quirky history. Explore Hôtel Le Ballu , La Fantaisie , Providence , Les Bains , and Norman Hôtel & Spa to see just what we mean. Also read: Inside Hôtel Le Ballu: A singular, artsy refuge in the heart of Paris

Click below to jump to each distinction: 

The three key hotels.

Antibes: Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc Bordeaux: Les Sources de Caudalie Champillon: Le Royal Champagne Courchevel: Cheval Blanc Courchevel Courchevel: Le K2 Palace Gordes: La Bastide de Gordes Le Castellet: Hôtel du Castellet Le Puy-Sainte-Réparade: Villa La Coste Les Baux-de-Provence: Baumanière Megève: Four Seasons Megeve Monte-Carlo: Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo Paris: Villeroy Paris: La Réserve Paris Paris: Saint James Paris Paris: Four Seasons George V Paris: Cheval Blanc Paris Paris: Ritz Paris Paris: Le Bristol Paris Paris: Le Meurice Paris: Plaza Athénée Reims: Domaine Les Crayères Saint Tropez: La Reserve Ramatuelle Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: Grand Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat Versailles:  Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle

NEW: Paris by The MICHELIN Guide – expert insights on where to dine, stay and explore

The two key hotels.

Aix-en-Provence: Château de la Gaude Avignon: La Mirande Biarritz: Hôtel du Palais Bommes: Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey Busnes: Le Château de Beaulieu Cassis: Les Roches Blanches Cheverny: Les Sources de Cheverny Cognac: Chais Monnet Courchevel: Aman Le Mélézin Courchevel: L'Apogée Courchevel Dinard: Castelbrac Eugenie les Bains: Les Pres d’Eugenie - Michel Guerard Èze: Château Eza Èze: Château de la Chèvre d'Or Gargas: Coquillade - Provence Honfleur: La Ferme Saint-Siméon Lauris: Domaine de Fontenille Le Grand-Lucé: Château du Grand-Lucé Massignac: Domaine des Étangs Monte-Carlo: Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo Montpellier: Domaine de Biar Nice: Le Negresco Paris: Crillon Paris: J.K. Place Paris Paris: Lutetia Paris: Nolinski Paris: Bulgari Hôtel Paris Paris: Le Royal Monceau Paris: The Peninsula Paris Paris: Shangri-La Paris Porto-Vecchio: Casadelmar Roquebrune-Cap-Martin: The Maybourne Riviera Sabran: Château de Montcaud Saint Tropez: Airelles Saint-Tropez Château de la Messardière Saint Tropez: Cheval Blanc St-Tropez Saint-Méloir-des-Ondes: Château Richeux - Les Maisons de Bricourt Saint-Paul-de-Vence: Le Domaine du Mas de Pierre Val-d'Isère: Le K2 Chogori

The One Key Hotels

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Bourgogne-franche-comté, centre-val de loire, haut-de-france, île-de-france, nouvelle-aquitaine, pays de la loire, provence-alpes-côte d'azur.

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In Photos: Every Three Key Hotel in Paris

The ins and outs of the most outstanding hotels in the city.

One, Two and Three MICHELIN Keys

Just as the MICHELIN Stars recognize outstanding restaurants, hotels now have their own distinction.

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How To Turn an Entire Town Into a Bright Pink, One Key Wine Hotel

As you stroll the remote French village of Assignan, you can’t miss the colors of Chateau & Village Castigno, a wine hotel that’s been splashed throughout the town.

Three Keys in Bordeaux: The Hot Spring Hotel in Wine Country

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Inside Room 311 of the Only Three Key Château in Paris

The so-called 'Piano Suite' is an exclusive oasis atop a completely singular Parisian manor.

Inside a Historic Tapestry of French Design: Provence's Two Key La Mirande

In the heart of Provence and steps from the palace where seven Popes once reigned, La Mirande is a time capsule of centuries of French decorative arts — all in an unmistakably luxurious hotel.

Where Bowie and Jagger Partied: Now a Dazzling One Key Hotel in Paris

Les Bains Paris was a spa for Proust and a nightclub for Bowie and Jagger. Now, it might be the city's hippest design hotel — recently awarded one of Paris' first MICHELIN Keys.

Three Key Dreamland: An Art-Drenched Wine Estate Decorated by Gehry and Dylan

Patrick McKillen turned an old French vineyard into a striking hotel with a collection of art and architecture to rival the world’s very best. It's among the first Three Key hotels in France.

Everything You Need to Know About the MICHELIN Key for Hotels

In April 2024, the MICHELIN Guide debuts a brand new distinction: the MICHELIN Key. While the MICHELIN Star recognizes the most outstanding restaurants in the world, the MICHELIN Key does the same for outstanding hotels. Here’s everything you need to know about the new distinction.

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Macron to say France and allies could have stopped Rwanda genocide in 1994

French president marks 30th anniversary with video, airing Sunday, saying international community lacked will to stop the slaughter

The French president, Emmanuel Macron , has said France and its western and African allies “could have stopped” Rwanda’s 1994 genocide but did not have the will to halt the slaughter of an estimated 800,000 people, mostly ethnic Tutsis.

In a video message to be published on Sunday to mark the 30th anniversary of the genocide, Macron will emphasise that “when the phase of total extermination against the Tutsis began, the international community had the means to know and act”, the presidency said on Thursday.

The president believes that at the time the international community already had historical experience of witnessing genocide with the Holocaust in the second world war and the mass killings of Armenians in Ottoman Turkey during the first world war.

Macron will say that “France, which could have stopped the genocide with its western and African allies, did not have the will” to do so, the official added.

The president will not be going to Kigali to attend commemorations of the genocide this Sunday alongside Rwanda’s president, Paul Kagame , but instead France will be represented by its foreign minister, Stéphane Séjourné.

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Macron, during a visit to Rwanda in 2021 , recognised France’s “responsibilities” in the genocide and said only the survivors could grant “the gift of forgiveness”. But he stopped short of an apology and Kagame, who led the Tutsi rebellion that ended the genocide, has long insisted on the need for a stronger statement.

A historical commission set up by Macron and led by the historian Vincent Duclert also concluded in 2021 that there had been a failure on the part of France under François Mitterrand, while adding that there was no evidence Paris was complicit in the killings .

Marcel Kabanda, president of the Ibuka France genocide survivor association, welcomed Macron’s message reported on Thursday. “It goes even further than the Duclert report or his message in Kigali [in 2021]. I’m overjoyed he is giving France this positive image of a country that recognises its faults and grows through recognising its history.”

In his video message Macron is to “reiterate the importance of the duty of remembrance, but also of developing and disseminating reference knowledge, in particular through the education of younger generations in France,” the presidency said.

• Emmanuel Macron
• Paul Kagame

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