Things to Do in France

The Eiffel Tower is not just a monument; it is the heart of Paris and the face of France. Built in 1889, it remains one of the most visited landmarks in the world. From the top, you can see a breathtaking view of the city with its wide boulevards and historic buildings. At night, the tower glitters with lights, making it even more magical. Visiting the Eiffel Tower is one of the top attractions in France and should always be on your travel plan.

• Location: Paris
• Best Time to Visit: Evening for sunset or after dark for the hourly light show
• Attractions: Observation decks, restaurants on the tower, sparkling light display

The Louvre Museum is a treasure chest of art and history. It is the largest museum in the world and a top choice when thinking of what to do in France. Inside, you will find works from every part of history, from Egyptian mummies to Renaissance masterpieces. The Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo are world-famous, but there are thousands more works that make the museum special. Even walking through the grand halls of the Louvre is a unique experience.

• Location: Paris
• Best Time to Visit: Morning on weekdays to avoid crowds
• Attractions: Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, French crown jewels, Egyptian artifacts

Mont Saint-Michel rises like a fairytale island off the coast of Normandy. This medieval village and abbey are surrounded by dramatic tides that make it look like a castle floating on water. Walking through its cobbled streets feels like stepping back into history. The abbey at the top is a masterpiece of Gothic design and offers wonderful sea views. Visiting Mont Saint-Michel is one of the most unforgettable places to visit in France.

• Location: Normandy
• Best Time to Visit: Morning during low tide for the best views and access
• Attractions: The abbey, narrow medieval streets, surrounding bay views

A cruise along the Seine River lets you see Paris from a new angle. The river passes some of the most famous landmarks in the city, like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre. Taking a cruise at sunset or in the evening adds a romantic charm as the city glows with lights. Whether you choose a simple boat ride or a dinner cruise, it is one of the most relaxing and enjoyable things to do in France.

• Location: Paris
• Best Time to Visit: Evening or sunset for the best views of the city lights
• Attractions: Eiffel Tower views, Notre Dame Cathedral, historic bridges

Bordeaux is known as the wine capital of the world. The region has been producing fine wine for centuries, and today it offers travelers a chance to explore its vineyards and estates. Guided tours let you see how wine is made, from grape to glass, and end with tastings of red, white, and sparkling varieties. Visiting Bordeaux is not only about wine; the city itself has grand squares, historic streets, and a lively culture. For lovers of food and drink, it is one of the must-see attractions in France.

• Location: Bordeaux
• Best Time to Visit: May to October for vineyard tours and festivals
• Attractions: Cité du Vin wine museum, vineyard tours, château tastings

In summer, Provence turns into a sea of purple with its endless lavender fields. These fields stretch across rolling hills and are one of the most photographed sights in the country. Walking through them, you’ll smell the sweet fragrance carried by the warm breeze. Many villages nearby celebrate lavender with local markets where you can buy oils, soaps, and perfumes. It is a magical sight that belongs on every France bucket list.

• Location: Provence
• Best Time to Visit: June and July when the lavender is in full bloom
• Attractions: Valensole Plateau, local lavender markets, village tours

The French Riviera, also called Côte d’Azur, is a sparkling stretch of coastline along the Mediterranean Sea. Famous for its sunny beaches, luxury yachts, and glamorous lifestyle, it attracts both celebrities and travelers from across the globe. Cities like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco are full of charm, each with their own character. From swimming in the blue waters to walking on seaside promenades, the Riviera is one of the best things to do in France if you love the sea.

• Location: Côte d’Azur, South of France
• Best Time to Visit: May to September for warm weather and festivals
• Attractions: Nice’s Promenade des Anglais, Cannes Film Festival, Monaco harbor

The Loire Valley is home to some of the most beautiful castles in Europe. Known as the “Garden of France,” the region is full of grand châteaux, vineyards, and riverside towns. Many of the castles look like something from a fairytale, with towers and gardens that amaze visitors. A trip here offers history, architecture, and natural beauty all in one. Visiting the Loire Valley is one of the most rewarding things to do in France for history lovers.

• Location: Loire Valley
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds
• Attractions: Château de Chambord, Château de Chenonceau, Loire vineyards

Disneyland Paris brings childhood dreams to life. It is the most popular theme park in Europe and a favorite for families traveling in France. The park is filled with rides, shows, and parades that bring Disney characters to life. From thrilling roller coasters to gentle boat rides, there is something for every age. A full day here promises fun, excitement, and memories that last a lifetime.

• Location: Marne-la-Vallée, near Paris
• Best Time to Visit: Weekdays in spring or autumn to avoid long queues
• Attractions: Sleeping Beauty Castle, roller coasters, Disney parades and shows

The French Alps are a paradise for outdoor lovers. In winter, they are famous for skiing and snowboarding, with resorts like Chamonix offering world-class slopes. In summer, the Alps turn into a green wonderland with trails, lakes, and mountain villages. Hiking here brings you close to Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe. It is one of the top attractions in France for those who love adventure.

• Location: Chamonix and surrounding French Alps
• Best Time to Visit: December to February for skiing, June to September for hiking
• Attractions: Mont Blanc cable car, alpine trails, mountain villages

Lyon is often called the food capital of France. This historic city is known for its UNESCO-listed Old Town, Roman ruins, and lively markets. Walking through the streets, you’ll find “traboules” – secret passageways once used by silk merchants. The city is also full of bouchon restaurants, where you can taste traditional Lyonnaise dishes. Visiting Lyon gives you a taste of authentic culture and cuisine.

• Location: Lyon, southeastern France
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with special food festivals in September
• Attractions: Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, traboules, bouchon restaurants

The D-Day beaches are some of the most moving sites in France. These beaches were the landing grounds of Allied forces during World War II. Today, they stand as a place of memory and respect, with museums and cemeteries that tell the story of bravery and sacrifice. Walking along these shores gives you a deep sense of history and reflection. It is one of the must-see attractions in France for anyone interested in world history.

• Location: Normandy
• Best Time to Visit: May to September for good weather and clear visits
• Attractions: Omaha Beach, American Cemetery, D-Day museums