If you’ve been fantasizing about the ideal European getaway, you’ve come to the right place. From the romance of Paris to the sunshine and stunning seaside of the south, the best places to visit in France are so diverse and yet so beautiful, it’s hard to know where to start. Be it the finest wines, the most spectaculars then medieval castles, alpine skiing or language most lyrical and delicious and felt, France puts the best things in life on your doorstep.
In this in depth guide we’ll list down the absolute best places to visit in France places you absolutely 100% need to include in your itinerary and insider visits to help you make the most of your trip.
Paris: The Heart of France
You say France and think Paris, it just is, and for good reason. Paris, the “City of Light” is one of these places.
It’s a city that is romantic, historical, fashionable and delicious.
Top things to do in Paris:
• Eiffel Tower and see it sparkle night
• Going to the Louvre (the Mona Lisa is on display there)
• Wander Montmartre and the charming streets of Le Marais
• Get Your Pastriesand Café Culture on Like a Parisian
Nice: A Sunny Break on the French Riviera
Nice is one of the most beautiful places to visit in France if you want some-time beach vacation. Set on the glitzy Côte d’Azur, this jewel of the Mediterranean is known for its laid-back vibe, turquoise waters and arty flair. Highlights in Nice:
• Walk around the Promenade desAnglais
• Stroll through the Old Town (Vieux Nice) and the colorful markets
• Spend the day in elegant Monaco or the hilltop town of Eze
• Head to the warm, clear sea for a swim.
Provence: Lavender Fields & Storybook Villages
If you’re searching for the most beautiful places in southern France, Provence, France is one place that just has to make the grade. Lavender fields, vineyards, olive groves and sunbathe all under glorious sunshine.
Must-see in Provence:
• Visit during the season for lavender (June to mid-July)
•Tour charming hilltop villages like Gordes, Roussillon and Lourmarin
•Markets of Aix-en-Provence tour
• Visit Roman ruins in Arlesand Orange
Loire Valley: France’s Fairytale Castle Region
Want something a bit extra than chateau traditional, then make your way to the west of France.
The Loire Valley is famous for its romantic châteaux, scenic countryside, and historic vineyards. It truly is probably one of the spots to go in France to get few couples and culture vultures in addition to the whole family.
Top Loire Valley attractions:
•Château de Chambord and Château deChenonceau
• Wine tasting trips to Saumur & Chinon area.
•Cycle through vineyards and along the Loire River
• Hot Air Balloon rides across the breathtaking Dragsholml and scape.
Mont Saint Michel: The Enchanted Island of France
One of the best places to visit in France, Mont Saint Michel, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of those places that look like they are floating on water. Thecciled’Establet Ancient Abbaye for which the town is famous.
What to do at Mont Saint Michel:
• Take in theeye-popping change in tides.
• Stroll on the causeway at low tide.
• Ascend the abbey for a panorama dose of the city.
• Visit quaint shops and cafés along the cobblestone streets.
Strasbourg: A magical town with Franco-German charm
Its timbered buildings, canals and food, Strasbourg is a half and half of French and German cultures. It’s also where one of Europe’s most popular Christmas markets is located.
Why visit Strasbourg:
• Take a walking tour of Petite France and the canals of the Ill River.
• Hit the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral.
• Representative Alsatian delicacies like flame kueche and choucroute.
• Strike in December for the magical Christmas markets.
Bordeaux: The World City of Wine
Gourmet wine, refined streets, and classy flair characterize bordelaise existence in Bordeaux. It is one of France’s best places to go for food and wine lovers.
Best Bordeaux experiences:
• Organize vacations to surrounding wine villages such as Saint-Émilion and Médoc.
• Illustrative ancient châteaux and vineyards.
• Enjoy a stroll along Garonne River and walk Plaza de la Bourse.
• Explore La Cité du Vin (the Wine Museum).
Chamonix: The Jewel in the French Alps
The great outdoors traveler will love Chamonix as one of the top French destinations to travel to anytime of the year. At its feet stands Mont Blanc, making this alpine town a perfect destination for skiing, hiking and climbing.
Things to do in Chamonix:
• Travel Aiguille du Midi cable car for panoramic views.
• Ski or walk in the Mont Blanc Massif.
• Explore Mer de Glace, France’s largest glacier.
• Snuggle up in warm chalets over a hot chocolate or mulled wine.
Lyon: The Gastronomic Capital of France
Lyon is an underrated totally fantastic destination. It is rich in food, quaint Old Town, it is one of the most under-rated and best destinations in France to see.
What to do in Lyon:
• Eat at the classic bouchons and sample local fare.
• Discover the hidden passage ways (traboules).
• Climb up to the Fourvière basilica for wonderful views.
• Take a boat trip down the Rhône and saône.
Corsica: France’s Wild Island
When you want mountains and Mediterranean, you go for Corsica. Corsica is a wilder island but has stunning coastlines, more walking and fewer people than mainland France.
Corsica highlights:
• Hike sections of the GR20, one of Europe’s top hikes
• Swim in the blue waters of Palombaggia and Santa Giulia
• Explore the clifftop town of Bonifacio fortress town
• Sample Corsican wine and cheese
Final Thoughts:
There is a reason why so many tourists across the globe have France on their bucket list. With unbelievable cities, postcard-perfect villages, breathtaking scenery and a rich heritage, the top destinations in France are diverse, action-packed, and seriously rewarding.
Whether it is your first time to France, or your tenth, there is always more to discover in France.
