France is a country that blends elegance, history, natural beauty, and world-class cuisine into one unforgettable travel experience. From iconic landmarks in Paris to lavender fields in Provence and dramatic coastlines along the Atlantic, the diversity is remarkable. If you are planning your itinerary and researching the Best Things to Do in France, you will quickly see how each region offers its own atmosphere, traditions, and landscapes.
The appeal of the Best Things to Do in France lies in its balance. You can admire centuries-old cathedrals in the morning, enjoy a leisurely café lunch in the afternoon, and walk along a scenic river or coastline in the evening. France’s rich history, from Roman settlements to royal dynasties and modern art movements, shapes a destination filled with cultural depth.
This detailed guide highlights the Top 20 Best Things to Do in France, organised into clear sections to help you plan a rewarding and well-rounded journey.
Iconic Landmarks and Historic Best Things to Do in France
France is home to some of the world’s most recognisable monuments. Visiting these sites defines many of the Best Things to Do in France.
1. Visit Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is the symbol of France and a highlight among the Best Things to Do in France. Rising above the Paris skyline, it offers panoramic views from its observation decks.
Whether you visit during the day or see it illuminated at night, the experience captures the romantic spirit of Paris.
2. Explore Louvre Museum
The Louvre is one of the world’s largest and most famous museums. Exploring its galleries is one of the cultural Best Things to Do in France.
Home to the Mona Lisa and thousands of masterpieces, the museum reflects centuries of artistic achievement.
3. Discover Mont Saint-Michel
Mont Saint-Michel rises dramatically from tidal waters off the Normandy coast. Visiting it is one of the magical Best Things to Do in France.
The medieval abbey and narrow streets create a setting that feels timeless.
4. Visit Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles reflects the grandeur of French monarchy. Touring its Hall of Mirrors and gardens is one of the royal Best Things to Do in France.
Scenic Regions and Nature Best Things to Do in France
France’s landscapes shift dramatically from sun-drenched Mediterranean coastlines to snow-covered alpine peaks and rolling vineyard valleys. Exploring these diverse settings is central to the Best Things to Do in France, especially for travellers who appreciate natural beauty combined with culture and history. Each region offers its own pace, colours, and atmosphere.
5. Explore Provence
Provence is one of the most picturesque regions in the country and a highlight among the Best Things to Do in France. Known for fragrant lavender fields, olive groves, and hilltop villages, it captures the essence of southern French charm.
Towns such as Gordes and Roussillon feature stone houses and panoramic countryside views. Local markets overflow with fresh produce, herbs, and regional specialties. In summer, the lavender fields near Valensole create vibrant purple landscapes that feel almost unreal.
Exploring Provence combines scenery, cuisine, and tradition, making it one of the most visually rewarding Best Things to Do in France.
6. Visit the French Riviera
The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur, is synonymous with Mediterranean glamour. Visiting this coastline is one of the coastal Best Things to Do in France.
Cities such as Nice and Cannes offer seaside promenades, luxury yachts, and pebble beaches overlooking turquoise waters. The Promenade des Anglais in Nice is ideal for walking along the sea, while Cannes is famous for its film festival and elegant atmosphere.
The Riviera’s mix of sunshine, art museums, and scenic coastal drives makes it one of the most relaxing and stylish Best Things to Do in France.
7. Discover the Loire Valley
The Loire Valley is celebrated for its grand châteaux and fertile vineyards. Discovering this region is one of the elegant countryside Best Things to Do in France.
Castles such as Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau reflect Renaissance architecture and royal history. Cycling routes wind through vineyards and riverside landscapes, offering a slower way to experience the region.
Wine tastings at local estates complement the cultural exploration, ensuring the Loire Valley remains one of the most refined Best Things to Do in France.
8. Hike in the French Alps
The French Alps provide dramatic mountain scenery and year-round outdoor adventure. Hiking or skiing here is one of the adventurous Best Things to Do in France.
In summer, alpine trails lead past crystal-clear lakes and wildflower meadows. In winter, ski resorts such as Chamonix attract visitors seeking snow-covered slopes and breathtaking views of Mont Blanc.
The scale and beauty of the mountains make the Alps one of the most exhilarating natural Best Things to Do in France.
9. Explore Normandy
Normandy combines rugged coastline with deep historical significance. Exploring this region is one of the reflective Best Things to Do in France.
The D-Day landing beaches, including Omaha Beach, stand as powerful reminders of World War II. Clifftop walks along Étretat reveal striking chalk formations overlooking the English Channel.
Normandy’s pastoral countryside, apple orchards, and coastal villages add charm beyond its historical sites, securing its place among the meaningful and scenic Best Things to Do in France.
Cultural Cities and Experiences Best Things to Do in France
France’s cities are where art, gastronomy, architecture, and everyday life come together. Each urban centre offers its own traditions, flavours, and atmosphere, expanding the variety of the Best Things to Do in France. From riverside wine regions to Mediterranean ports and alpine lakeside towns, these destinations highlight the cultural richness that defines the country.
10. Visit Lyon
Lyon is widely regarded as the culinary capital of the country, making it central to the flavourful Best Things to Do in France. The city sits at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers and is known for its traditional bouchons, small restaurants serving hearty regional dishes.
Specialities such as quenelles, coq au vin, and praline desserts reflect Lyon’s deep gastronomic heritage. Beyond food, the old town features Renaissance buildings and hidden passageways called traboules.
Dining in Lyon is more than a meal. It is an immersion into one of the most authentic culinary Best Things to Do in France.
11. Explore Bordeaux
Bordeaux is synonymous with wine culture and elegant architecture. Exploring this southwestern city is one of the refined Best Things to Do in France.
The surrounding vineyards produce some of the world’s most celebrated wines. Guided tours introduce visitors to traditional winemaking techniques and tastings of regional varieties. The city itself features grand 18th-century buildings and lively riverfront promenades.
For travellers interested in gastronomy and heritage, Bordeaux offers one of the most sophisticated Best Things to Do in France.
12. Discover Strasbourg
Strasbourg blends French and German influences, creating a distinctive cultural identity. Discovering this Alsatian city is one of the unique Best Things to Do in France.
The half-timbered houses of La Petite France reflect medieval charm, while the Strasbourg Cathedral dominates the skyline with its intricate Gothic façade. The city is also home to major European institutions, adding modern significance.
Strasbourg’s mix of history, architecture, and political importance makes it one of the most diverse Best Things to Do in France.
13. Visit Marseille
Marseille is France’s oldest city and offers Mediterranean energy combined with maritime history. Visiting this southern port expands the urban Best Things to Do in France.
The Vieux-Port remains the heart of the city, where fishing boats and yachts share the harbour. Nearby, the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde overlooks the coastline.
With its vibrant markets, coastal scenery, and cultural diversity, Marseille provides one of the most dynamic Best Things to Do in France.
14. Explore Toulouse
Toulouse is often called the “Pink City” because of its terracotta brick architecture. Exploring this southwestern destination is one of the charming Best Things to Do in France.
The Place du Capitole forms the centre of city life, surrounded by historic façades and cafés. Toulouse also has a strong aerospace heritage, adding a modern dimension to its cultural identity.
Walking through its warm-toned streets at sunset reveals why Toulouse remains one of the inviting Best Things to Do in France.
15. Visit Annecy
Annecy is often described as one of the most romantic towns in France. Visiting this alpine lakeside city is one of the scenic Best Things to Do in France.
Canals wind through the old town, earning Annecy the nickname “Venice of the Alps.” The clear waters of Lake Annecy reflect surrounding mountains, creating postcard-worthy views.
The blend of mountain scenery and medieval charm makes Annecy one of the most picturesque and relaxing Best Things to Do in France.
16. Discover Carcassonne
Carcassonne’s fortified medieval citadel feels like stepping into another era. Discovering this UNESCO-listed stronghold is one of the fairy-tale Best Things to Do in France.
The Cité de Carcassonne is surrounded by double walls and watchtowers that dominate the surrounding countryside. Walking along the ramparts provides sweeping views and a sense of the town’s strategic importance in medieval times. Inside the walls, cobbled streets, small shops, and stone buildings maintain an atmosphere that feels remarkably preserved.
For travellers drawn to castles and historic fortifications, Carcassonne offers one of the most immersive and storybook-like Best Things to Do in France.
17. Explore Nice
Nice combines Mediterranean seaside charm with a strong artistic heritage. Exploring this Riviera city is one of the vibrant Best Things to Do in France.
The Promenade des Anglais runs along the sparkling coastline, offering scenic walks beside turquoise waters. The old town, with its colourful façades and lively markets, reflects southern French character. Nice is also home to art museums dedicated to figures such as Marc Chagall and Henri Matisse.
With its balance of culture and coastal relaxation, Nice remains one of the most appealing urban Best Things to Do in France.
18. Visit Avignon
Avignon is known for its medieval significance and striking architecture. Visiting this historic city is one of the cultural Best Things to Do in France.
The Palais des Papes stands as one of the largest Gothic palaces in Europe, reflecting the period when Avignon was the seat of the papacy. The surrounding old town features stone streets and lively squares.
Avignon’s rich religious and architectural heritage secures its place among the historic Best Things to Do in France.
19. Experience a French Market
Visiting a traditional open-air market is one of the authentic Best Things to Do in France. Markets are at the heart of local life, bringing together farmers, artisans, and residents in lively squares.
Stalls display fresh produce, cheeses, olives, breads, and regional specialities. The atmosphere encourages slow browsing and conversation, reflecting France’s appreciation for quality ingredients and community connection.
Spending a morning at a market provides cultural insight and culinary inspiration, making it one of the most genuine everyday Best Things to Do in France.
20. Enjoy French Cuisine
Sampling regional dishes is one of the essential Best Things to Do in France. French cuisine varies from region to region, offering everything from buttery croissants in Paris to bouillabaisse in Marseille and coq au vin in Burgundy.
Cheese platters, freshly baked baguettes, and seasonal desserts highlight the country’s culinary heritage. Meals are often enjoyed slowly, emphasising flavour and presentation.
Experiencing French cuisine is not just about eating. It is about understanding a culture where food is celebrated daily, securing its place among the most satisfying Best Things to Do in France.
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Conclusion:
France offers extraordinary variety across its regions. The Top 20 Best Things to Do in France combine iconic landmarks, royal palaces, mountain landscapes, Mediterranean beaches, wine regions, and vibrant cultural cities.
Whether you are admiring the Eiffel Tower, exploring the lavender fields of Provence, tasting wine in Bordeaux, or walking through medieval Carcassonne, the Best Things to Do in France create a journey filled with elegance, flavour, and history. France remains a destination that rewards curiosity and invites travellers to experience its culture at a relaxed and meaningful pace.
