19 Things To Do In France: Our Top Picks

19 Things To Do In France: Our Top Picks

. 16 min read

A country that boasts of its Persian boulevards, the iconic Eiffel Tower, and charming locations, France is a paradise for those who live life to the fullest. From fascinating adventures that catch the eye of travelers to top of the line tours of iconic locations set to fill you with joy, there are many things to do in France on your next vacation in the country.

Fancy exploring this paradise? Cling on with us as we list our top picks for the things one can try on a vacation in France.

Top 19 Things To Do In France

Have a look at the top things one can try on a holiday in France.

1. Take A Cruise On The Seine River

Cruise On The Seine River

One of the finest things one can do on a vacation in France, taking a Seine River Cruise has one of the top priorities for tourists as far as an adventure in France is concerned. Highly regarded to be Paris' top sites, one can take a relaxing cruise here and witness the fascinating Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, Place de la Concorde, and other iconic landmarks and locations along the whole tour. As travelers put it, enjoying a nice lunch on the cruise or a romantic dinner is something worth trying with your better half. All the more reason to visit one of the best attractions in France, right?

Famous For - Cruise Tours

Location - Paris

Best Hotels To Stay Nearby - Hotel Da Vinci & Spa, Le Relais du Louvre, L'Hotel, Hotel La Villa Saint-Germain, Hotel d'Angleterre, Saint Germain des Pres

2. Catch A Glimpse Of The Sunset At Eiffel Tower

Catch A Glimpse Of The Sunset At Eiffel Tower

Another of those top things to do in Paris, France, the tour of the Eiffel Tower is something that no traveler can possibly afford to miss on a vacation. While visiting the place is a treat at any time of the day, coming here to watch the sunset is a different experience altogether. The gentle lighting at this time has an ethereal effect while each level of the tower offers a truly spectacular view of the sunset in Paris. What's interesting is that there are lightings on the deck of the tower which adds to the overall appeal of the scene.

One of the main reasons why coming to the Eiffel Tower during evenings is one of the top things to do in Paris, France, is the dining experience here. One can dine in at the tower restaurants and catch a glimpse of the sunset while enjoying a fancy meal. Can't ask for more, right?

Famous For - Design, Sunset View, Restaurants

Location - Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France

Best Hotels To Stay Nearby - Le Derby Alma, Pullman Paris Eiffel Tower Hotel, Mercure Paris Centre Eiffel Tower Hotel, Hotel Relais Bosquet Paris, Hotel Le Marquis

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3. Expérience Spirituality At The Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel

Expérience Spirituality

Now here's a thing, France isn't always about adventures and a happening time. There's a place that carries immense importance in the lives of Christians around the world. Making a pilgrimage to the Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel has been a significant practice since the 11th Century and visitors coming to France today can follow in the footsteps for a true spiritual experience in the country.

One of the top things to do in France, one can walk across the Bay of Saint-Michel's shoreline at the time of low tide in order to reach here.

Famous For - Pilgrimage, Ambiance

Best Hotels To Stay - Le Relais Saint-Michel, Les Terrasses Poulard, Hotel La Digue, Hotel Le Mouton Blanc

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4. Catch A Sight Of The Rock Formations At Étretat

The Rock Formations At Étretat

Located along the Alabaster Coast of France, Étretat is another spot popular amongst travelers coming to the country. One of the finest beaches in France, Étretat is home to amazing chalk cliffs and arched rock formations that are simply a treat to watch. One can even find natural sculptures rooted here around the 80-mile stretch.

Interestingly, these sculptures and rock formations are the main reason why travelers love coming here. Speaking of the location, the Étretat beach has some of the most serene views that one can expect to find in France.

Famous For - Natural Sculptures, Rock Formations, and Chalk Cliffs

Location - Normandy

Best Hotels To Stay Nearby - Dormy House, B&B et Gite 'La Belle Époque', La maison d'Emilie, Les Pins de César, Les Tilleuls - Maison Gersdorff

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5. Explore The Medieval Town Of Saint-Paul-de-Vence

Explore The Medieval Town Of Saint-Paul-de-Vence

Another of those things to do in France that travelers should be aware of, exploring Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a treat in this part of the country. One of the oldest towns in the country, Saint-Paul-de-Vence has been highly popular amongst artists for a long. As history has it, Marc Chagall lived here for nearly 20 years. Today, the office of tourism here offers tours that clearly follow the footsteps of Marc Chagall.

Interestingly, art is the name of the game in this town. Travelers coming here can find some of the best hotels in France that are widely renowned for their services and comfort of stay.

Famous For - The town is highly popular amongst artists

Location - Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of Southeastern France

Best Hotels To Stay - Hotel les Vergers de Saint Paul, Domaine du Mas De Pierre, Hotel Le Saint Paul, Hotel Restaurant La Vague de Saint Paul & Spa, Hôtel La Grande Bastide

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6. Try SkyDiving At Cannes

Try SkyDiving At Cannes

There's nothing better than skydiving to experience the ultimate thrill adventure activities in France. An activity that is generally not for the faint-hearted, skydiving is one of the most famous attractions of Cannes and is heavily popular amongst travelers. One can not only get to gaze at the French Alps but can even see the gorgeous side of the Saint-Cassien Lake. So, what's the delay? Put on your suit and take that jump to witness the beauty of the French Alps.

Famous For - Skydiving

Location - French Riviera

Best Hotels To Stay - Apart Hotel Villa Annette, Novotel Suites Cannes Centre, Hotel Le Florian, Best Western Plus Le Patio Des Artistes, Best Western Premier Mondial

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7. Learn Classic French Cooking In Burgundy

 French Cooking In Burgundy

Here's a fact, the French gastronomic meal has been inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Just about every nook and corner of this part of the world has something delectable to offer to your taste buds. Besides, when it comes to the best of regional delicacies in France, Burgundy is one of the most popular places to visit in France. One can not only take cooking classes but can even get to experience the Burgundian lifestyle and culture. There are a variety of classes in Culinaire that are offered in the region which travelers can indulge in. From delicious chicken stews to cheese puffs and more, visit the region and learn to cook it all.

Famous For - Culinary Adventures

Location - East-Central France

Best Hotels To Stay - Hôtel de la Gare, L'Hôtel de Beaune, Hôtel Le Cep, Château de Chassagne-Montrachet

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8. Relive The Begone World Of France At The Château de Versailles

Relive The Begone World Of France At The Château de Versailles

Easily one of the best things to do in France as far as the historical experience is concerned, the Royal Serenade at Château de Versailles is something that travelers should definitely consider trying. The spectacle offers a glimpse into the bygone world of France. One can catch a sight of the life of French aristocrats and their lavish royal court. From the best of 17th-century court life to Baroque music and dancing, there's a lot that makes this place a must-visit for travelers.

Famous For - Showing the bygone world of France

Location - Place d'Armes, 78000 Versailles, France

Best Hotels To Stay Nearby - Hotel Le Louis Versailles Chateau, Hotel la Residence du Berry, Hotel Le Versailles, Novotel Chateau de Versailles, Ibis Chateau de Versailles

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9. Discover French Architecture At Cathédrale De Chartres

Discover French Architecture at Cathédrale de Chartres

The Cathédrale de Chartres is a gorgeous spire with breathtaking sculpture work and 12th- 13th century-stained glass windows. It is said to symbolize the front runner of the echelon in French Gothic art. The cathedral survived the destruction of the town of Chartres and in 1979, it became a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a masterpiece of French architecture and a place to visit in Paris. What more can any ask for when it comes to having the best time of their lives? Go ahead, pack your bags and discover French architecture. What more can anyone ask for when it comes to discovering the architecture and art of France? . What more can any ask for when it comes to having the best time of their lives? Go ahead, pack your bags and discover French architecture. What more can anyone ask for when it comes to discovering the architecture and art of France?

Famous For - French Gothic art and architecture

Location - 16 Cloître Notre Dame, 28000 Chartres, France

Best Hotels To Stay Nearby - The Cathedral Garden, Campanile Charles Centre- Gare-Cathédrale, Le Parvis, Hotellerie Saint-Yves

10. Enjoy the art work at Musee de Louvre

Enjoy the art work at Musee de Louvre

One of the many places to visit in Europe is the Musee du Louvre in Paris. It is said to be of the best art museums in the world as it features over 35,000 artwork and has a door that was built in 1793.  Tourists will discover a range of art from various cultures and periods. It has everything one has dreamt of seeing, right from the Egyptian mummy tombs to the ancient Grecian sculptures.  "Liberty of Leading the People" by Eugene Delacroix, "The Raft of Medusa" by Théodore Géricault, and Leonardo da Vinci's "Mona Lisa are some of the masterpieces one will get to see at the museum. Apart from the paintings, one will get to see Napolean the third's old apartment digs. Géricault, and Leonardo da Vinci's "Mona Lisa are some of the masterpieces one will get to see at the museum. Apart from the paintings, one will get to see Napolean the third's old apartment digs.

Famous For – Artwork, Egyptian mummy tombs and Grecian sculptures

Location - Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France

Best Hotels To Stay Nearby - Hotel Du Louvre, Le Clef Louvre Paris, Hotel Relais Du Louvre, Hotel Louvre Saint Honore

11. Explore the architecture of Cathédrale de Notre Dame de Paris

Explore the architecture of Cathédrale de Notre Dame de Paris

Have you ever heard or seen the Notre Dame Cathedral? You have no idea what you are missing out on. One of the best things to do in Europe is to go see the Notre Dame Cathedral, popular in Victor Hugo's novel in 1831, The hunchback of Notre Dame. Lofty archways, ornate spires, rose-colored stained-glass windows, flying buttresses, ribbed vaults, and the indispensable Gargoyle are some of the attractions at the church. The Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the places that should be on everyone's bucket list. It is worth the visit at least once when on vacation in France. So, what you waiting for? Pack those bags and visit the cathedral.

Famous For – Lofty archways, ornate spires, rose-colored stained-glass windows, flying buttresses, ribbed vaults, and the indispensable Gargoyle

Location - 6 Parvis Notre-Dame - Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France Parvis Notre-Dame - Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France

Best Hotels To Stay Nearby -  Hotel De Notre Dame, Hotel Esmeralda, Hotel Notre Dame Saint Michel, Hotel Europe Saint Severin

12. Spend Time At The Jardin Des Tuileries Des Tuileries

Spend Time At The Jardin Des Tuileries Des Tuileries

The Jardin Des Tuileries is a free public garden nestled in between the Louvre and Palace de la Concorde. In 1991, it was added to the list of UNESCO world heritage sites and since the 17th century, it has been open to the public. It was designed only for the royal family and court to use. It is significant in the history of France as the story has it that foreign dignitaries held a meeting in the garden, Napoleon and Marie Louise got married here. Jardin Des Tuileries is a free public garden nestled in between the Louvre and Palace de la Concorde. In 1991, it was added to the list of UNESCO world heritage sites and since the 17th century, it has been open to the public. It was designed only for the royal family and court to use. It is significant in the history of France as the story has it that foreign dignitaries held a meeting in the garden, Napoleon and Marie Louise got married here.

Parisians and tourists wander the park, have picnics, or simply sit on the bench.  It is a lovely place to relax and enjoy the scenery. Three restaurants, a bookstore, and a carousel are found in the garden.

Famous For – Three restaurants, a bookstore, and a carousel

Location - Place de la Concorde, 75001 Paris, France

Best Hotels To Stay Nearby - Hotel Brighton, Hotel Regina Louvre, Le Meurice

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13. Visit The Arc de Triomphe

Visit The Arc de Triomphe

One of the largest monuments in the world, boasting of the old and new Paris, Arc de Triomphe forms the most amazing backdrop of the urban ensemble. September is the best time to visit the place for its triumphal archway, which was dedicated to Napolean 1 who commissioned Jean Chalgrin to design it. French artistic sensitivity boasts of the sculptural reliefs that grace the pillars on each side. The arch is engraved with Napoleon's victories along with names of over 660 army generals who fought the French revolution. It is one of the most breathtaking monuments people should not miss out on when on vacation in France. It is the one place people can boast about with their friends. Napolean 1 who commissioned Jean Chalgrin to design it. French artistic sensitivity boasts of the sculptural reliefs that grace the pillars on each side. The arch is engraved with Napoleon's victories along with names of over 660 army generals who fought the French revolution. It is one of the most breathtaking monuments people should not miss out on when on vacation in France. It is the one place people can boast about with their friends.

Famous For – Sculptural reliefs, arches engraved with Napoleon’s victories and army generals

Location - Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France

Best Hotels To Stay Nearby - Hotel Belfast, Hotel Arc de Triomphe, Hotel Elysees Ceramic, Star Champs Elysees Elysees Ceramic, Star Champs Elysees

14. Whisper To Horses At Camargue Nature Reserve

Whisper To Horses At Camargue Nature Reserve

Benefiting from international renown, born from the Mediterranean Sea and Rhone River, Camargue is unique in France. Even though it is supported by the hand of man, it is said to be wild.   Wetlands, rice fields, marshes, and grazing lands are breathtaking. It is an ideal place to see the flora and fauna. birding, horse riding, tours of the local ranches and succulent local cuisine are some of the main attractions here.  One of the many things to do in France includes spending time at the natural reserve. What more can anyone ask for when spending time with family and friends on a holiday? Isn’t it a breathtaking site to see? It is a once in a lifetime chance people never not get repeatedly.

Famous For – Birding, horse riding, tours of the local ranches and succulent local cuisine

Location - France

Best Hotels To Stay Nearby - Parc Naturel regional de Camargue, Lodge Sainte Helene hotel Vue sur lac Camargue, Hotel les Bains de Camargue, Lodge Sainte Helene hotel Vue sur lac Camargue, Hotel les Bains de Camargue

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15. Enjoy the beauty of Lourdes: Pèlerinage de Lourdes

Enjoy the beauty of Lourdes: Pèlerinage de Lourdes

For several pilgrims and tourists from around the world, Lourdes has been a focal point for praying, placing candles, and filling bottles with water. From the top of the rocky peak of the castle, one can get a view of the town.  The sanctuary that was built over time, is nestled on the lower part of Lourdes, on the banks of the Gave. Some of the main attractions people should see are Notre-Dame-du-Rosaire basilica, underground Saint-Pie-X Basilica, the swimming pools, the fountains, the meadows, and two Stations of the Cross.  It is one of the most amazing places to visit at least once when on vacation in France. Don’t miss out on such chances as who knows when it will come again.

Famous For – Notre-Dame-du-Rosaire basilica, underground Saint-Pie-X Basilica, the swimming pools, the fountains, the meadows, and two Stations of the Cross.

Location - 1 Avenue Mgr Théas, 65108 Lourdes, France

Best Hotels To Stay Nearby - Chez Mamylette, Villa L'Orante, Hotel Sainte Marie

16. Discover The Languedoc-Roussillon: Pont du Gard

Discover The Languedoc-Roussillon: Pont du Gard

One of the most ancient attractions in France, Pont Du Gard is visited by a million people every year.  One of the main constructions was built in the 1st century AD by the Romans. It is a breathtaking work of technical achievement that was designed on 3 levels of arches, standing 50 m high and 360 m across the top. As one of the UNESCO world heritage sites, it is surrounded by breathtaking natural sites and protected as a Grand Site of France.  Evidence of human occupation during prehistoric times can be found in the caves and quarry.

Lifesize construction, multimedia screens, and reproductions including a 500msq Domus are certain things that make an ideal study of the Pont Du Gard Museum.

Famous For – Multimedia screens, 3 levels of arches, caves and quarry

Location - 400 Route du Pont du Gard, 30210 Vers-Pont-du-Gard, France

Best Hotels To Stay Nearby - Residence Le Pont Du Gard, Chambers d'hôtel a gauche du pont du Gard, La Bastide des pins, le mas de mon Pere

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17.  Explore The Ochre Trail In Roussillon

Explore The Ochre Trail In Roussillon

With the explosion of landscapes, green forest of pines and oaks, Ochre Trail In Roussillon should be on everyone's bucket list of places to visit. Rumors have it that the geological changes were caused by a troubadour, a chatelaine, and a doomed love affair.

At the end of the 18th century, it was said that Jean- Etienne, a citizen of Roussillon studied the properties of ochre and extracted it from the sand. Ochre has become one of the most popular one-stop tourist destinations. If you haven’t visited the place, then what you waiting for? Book your tickets and have the best vacation of a lifetime.

Famous For: Landscapes, green forest of pines and oaks

Location: sentier des ocres, 84220 Roussillon, France

Best hotels to stay: Bastide Cassiopee, Les Sables D'ocre, Le Clos Des Cigales

18. Enjoy The View Of Chamonix, Mont-Blanc: La Valle de Chamonix

Enjoy The View Of Chamonix, Mont-Blanc

Skiing the Vallee Blanche is one of the most breathtaking experiences people should take on. While skiing, people will enjoy the breathtaking views of the snow and glaciers landscapes and the natural scenery. It is a dream that every adventure enthusiast has been wanting to make come true and should put it on their list of things to do.  Apart from the adventure, people can spend a day on the beaches in Europe. What more can anyone ask for when it comes to having the best time of their lives? If you are one those adventure enthusiasts, then skiing is the thing for you.

Famous For: Snow and Glacier Landscapes

Location:  France

Best hotels to stay: Le Whymper, Chalet and Spa, The guest house, Ice and Orange Chamonix Chalet Tissieres, Plan B hotel

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19.  Discover The Gouffre De Padirac

Discover The Gouffre De Padirac

Have you ever heard of the Gouffre de Padirac? If you haven't then you have no idea what you're missing out. The largest chasm in Europe, the Gouffre de Padirac was discovered by Edouard Martel, the famous French cave explorer. In 1899, it was open to the public and millions of tourists from around the world, come to marvel at the natural wonder.  Over the years, people have begun calling it the devil's hole as it leads to a cave system, made out of limestone. If you are planning to visit France, then this should be one of the many things to do. What more can you ask for when it comes to enjoying the most breathtaking attractions?

Famous For: Turquoise water, underground pools

Location:  France

Best hotels to stay: Au champ de l'insolite, Le Vieux Séchoir, Les Perluètes

One of the best places to visit in the world, France is a paradise for travelers who wish to experience the best of everything, from adventure activities to top-notch tours of iconic locations and landmarks, there are many things to do in France that attract travelers from around the world. One can not only try multiple things in the country but can even get to experience the culture and lifestyle of different regions in the country. So, why not explore this paradise on your next vacation? Join the thousands of travelers who book flights to France from all around the world and witness the attractions of the country.

FAQs

Q1. What should we do in France?

There are numerous things to do in France that delight travelers from around the world. Some of the top ones include -

  • Take A Cruise On The Seine River
  • Catch A Glimpse Of The Sunset At Eiffel Tower
  • Expérience Spirituality At The Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel
  • Catch A Sight Of The Rock Formations At Étretat
  • Learn Classic French Cooking In Burgundy

Read the full blog to know more about the top things to do in France.

Q2. Is France worth visiting?

Yes, France is one of the finest travel destinations in the world for multiple reasons. While there are numerous locations and landmarks that travelers can explore here, the country also offers multiple activities to try which only adds up to the joy of travelers.

Q3. Is it expensive in France?

Logically speaking, France is an expensive destination to visit on a holiday. The country is about 13.4 percent more expensive than other European destinations on average. However, considering the picturesque locations and activities offered here, the extra amount seems all worth it.

Q4. What are the two things France is famous for?

The two things that France is highly famous for are -

  • The Eiffel Tower
  • The Louvre
Q5. Can I do Skydiving in France?

Yes, skydiving is one of the most famous attractions of France and is heavily popular amongst travelers. One can try the activity in Cannes which is considered to be the region to experience skydiving in France.

Q6. Is France Friendly?

Yes, travelers can find friendly people in France who like to socialize in groups and talk to anyone at the same time.

Q7. What famous tourist attraction is found in France?

Travelers coming to France can find a number of popular attractions. However, none match the popularity of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. One of the most popular attractions in the world, the Eiffel Tower is one of the main reasons why travelers love coming to France.

Q8. What is France the best at?

Apart from many other things that the country is famous for, the one thing that France certainly knows best is enticing visitors from around the world. The country is even famous for its perfection in art.