France is a top destination for travellers from all over the world. With its stunning countryside, rich history, and delicious food, it’s easy to see why. Here are 10 places that you don’t want to miss on your vacation in France.
1. Paris
Paris is the capital city of France and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The city is home to iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum.
In addition, Paris boasts a rich history and culture, with countless museums, art galleries, and theatres to explore. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of dining and shopping options, from Michelin-starred restaurants to world-famous fashion boutiques.
Whether you’re looking to sightsee or simply relax in one of the many beautiful parks, there’s something for everyone in Paris.
What to do there:
The city is home to some of the most iconic landmarks, from the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre Museum. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or culture, there’s something for everyone in Paris.
And of course, no visit to the city would be complete without trying some of the delicious food. From traditional French cuisine to international fare, there are endless options for dining in Paris.
2. The French Riviera
The French Riviera, also known as the Cote d’Azur, is a stunning stretch of coastline on the Mediterranean Sea. It is renowned for its azure blue waters, sandy beaches, and glamorous resorts.
The French Riviera is located in the southeast of France and stretches from Cassis to Menton. Some of the most popular tourist destinations on the French Riviera include Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities on the French Riviera, such as swimming, sunbathing, sailing, and windsurfing.
There are also numerous restaurants and cafes where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and traditional French cuisine. The French Riviera is an ideal destination for a relaxing or romantic vacation in France.
What to do there:
The French Riviera, also known as the Cote d’Azur, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in France. With its warm climate, Mediterranean Sea views, and luxurious resorts, it’s no wonder that the French Riviera attracts visitors from all over the world.
- For those wanting to soak up some sun, there are plenty of beaches to choose from, including some that are only accessible by boat.
- For those interested in exploring the area’s history and culture, there are some museums and galleries to visit, as well as some historic buildings and landmarks.
- For those who want to enjoy the nightlife, there are a variety of bars and clubs to choose from.
3. The Loire Valley
The Loire Valley is a beautiful region of France that is often overlooked by tourists. The valley is home to numerous castles, including some of the best-preserved fortifications in Europe.
In addition, the valley features scenic hiking trails, quaint villages, and world-renowned wineries. Visitors to the Loire Valley can also enjoy various activities, such as horseback riding, cycling, and kayaking.
What to do there:
The Loire Valley is one of the most picturesque regions in France, and it offers visitors a wide range of activities to enjoy. For those interested in history, the region is home to some castles and palaces, including the Château de Chenonceau, which spans the River Cher.
Art lovers will enjoy visiting the Musee des Beaux-Arts in Tours, which houses a collection of paintings by famous French artists such as Monet and Renoir. Nature lovers can explore the lush gardens of Villandry or take a leisurely bike ride through the vineyards that line the valley.
For those who simply want to relax, there are plenty of charming cafes and restaurants to enjoy, as well as street markets selling local produce. Whatever your interests, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in the Loire Valley.
4. Mont Saint-Michel
Mont Saint-Michel is a small rocky island off France’s northwestern coast. The island is home to a medieval abbey, one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions.
Visitors can explore the abbey’s ancient buildings, visit the museum, and take in the stunning views from the island’s top. Several restaurants and shops on Mont Saint-Michel make it the perfect place to spend a day or two vacationing in France.
What to do there:
The island is only accessible during low tide when visitors can walk across the sandbar that connects it to the mainland. Once on the island, there are plenty of historical and cultural sights to explore.
The Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel is a must-see, and visitors can also take in views of the surrounding bay from the top of the island’s defensive walls. There are also several museums and art galleries on the island, as well as plenty of cafes and restaurants where visitors can relax and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this one-of-a-kind destination.
5. Strasbourg
Strasbourg is the capital and largest city of France’s Grand Est region and is the European Parliament’s official seat. The town is at the border with Germany, and its central location has led to it being a hub for European politics and culture.
What to do there:
Strasbourg is a beautiful city in France that is full of history and culture. There are many things to see and do, making it a great destination for tourists. The Cathedral of Notre Dame de Strasbourg is a must-see, with its stunning Gothic architecture and incredible stained glass windows.
For something a bit different, visitors can also check out the Palais Rohan, an 18th-century palace that now houses three museums. For those interested in history, theMusée de l’Œuvre Notre Dame is definitely worth a visit, as it contains works of art from the cathedral itself.
And no trip to Strasbourg would be complete without taking a stroll through the picturesque old town, which is full of charming cafes and shops. With so much to see and do, Strasbourg is a city that should not be missed.
6. Provence
Provence is a beautiful region in southeastern France known for its Mediterranean coastline, picturesque villages, and lavender fields. Visitors to Provence can enjoy various activities, from exploring Roman ruins to hiking in the mountains.
The region is also home to many vineyards and wineries, making it the perfect place to enjoy some of France’s finest wines.
What to do there:
Provence is a beautiful region in southeastern France that is renowned for its picturesque villages, stunning scenery, and delicious food. While there are many things to see and do in Provence, here are some of the highlights:
Visit Avignon: This historic city is home to the Palace of the Popes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The palace was built in the 14th century and was the residence of nine popes during the Avignon Papacy. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Provence.
Explore the villages of the Luberon: The Luberon region is home to some of the most beautiful villages in France, including Gordes, Roussillon, and Bonnieux. Visitors can explore medieval castles, Roman ruins, and picturesque lavender fields.
Tour the Château de la Bégude: This 17th-century château is located in the town of Le Thor and is open to the public for tours. The château features beautiful gardens, an impressive art collection, and a vineyard where you can taste local wines.
Enjoy the food: Provence is famous for its cuisine, which includes dishes such as ratatouille (a vegetable stew), bouillabaisse (a fish soup), and daube (a beef stew). Be sure to try some of these local specialities during your visit!
7. The Palace of Versailles
If you vacation in France plans to visit the Palace of Versailles. Once the home of French royalty, the palace is now a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors worldwide. The palace grounds are sprawling and beautiful, and there is much to see inside the palace itself, including opulent chambers and stunning works of art.
Although a visit to the Palace of Versailles can be crowded and expensive, it is well worth the effort, as it provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the grandeur of the French monarchy.
What to do there:
The Palace of Versailles is one of the most popular tourist destinations in France. Located just outside of Paris, the palace was originally built in the 17th century as a hunting lodge for Louis XIII. However, it was later expanded into a lavish royal residence by his son, Louis XIV.
Today, the palace is open to the public, and visitors can explore its many opulent rooms and gardens. Highlights of the Palace of Versailles include the Hall of Mirrors, the Royal Chapel, and the Queen’s Bedchamber.
Visitors can also take a stroll through the magnificent grounds, which include several ponds and fountains. With so much to see and do, a visit to the Palace of Versailles is sure to be a memorable experience.
8. Burgundy
Burgundy is a region located in the east-central part of France. It is well-known for its fine wines, and the picturesque landscape dotted with vineyards is a sight to behold.
Visitors can tour wineries, learn about the winemaking process, and sample some of the best wines in the world. In addition to its wines, Burgundy is also home to several historic towns and villages. Beaune, the capital of Burgundy, is especially worth a visit.
What to do there:
When it comes to French wine country, few regions can rival Burgundy. With centuries of winemaking history and some of the most sought-after wines in the world, Burgundy is a must-visit for any oenophile.
Located in eastern France, Burgundy is home to dozens of prestigious vineyards, including Domaine de la Romanee-Conti and Chateau de Pommard. Visitors can explore the region’s picturesque villages and taste their way through the local wines.
Whether you’re staying in Beaune or visiting one of the smaller villages, there’s no shortage of things to do in Burgundy. Plan a visit to one of the many vineyards, go for a hike in the beautiful countryside, or simply enjoy a glass of wine at a local cafe. No matter how you choose to spend your time, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in this world-renowned wine region.
9. Bordeaux
Bordeaux is a beautiful city located in southwest France. The city is well-known for its fine wine and stunning architecture. Bordeaux is also an excellent base for exploring the rest of southwestern France. The region is home to several other renowned wine regions and many picturesque towns and villages.
With its convenient location and wealth of things to see and do, Bordeaux is the perfect destination for a memorable vacation in France.
What to do there:
Bordeaux is a beautiful city in southwestern France that is well-known for its wine production. However, there is much more to Bordeaux than just wine. The city is also home to numerous historical landmarks, museums, and parks.
Visitors can start their tour of Bordeaux at the Place de la Bourse, a grand square that is surrounded by 18th-century buildings. The square is also home to the Miroir d’Eau, a large reflecting pool that is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
From there, visitors can explore the Quartier des Grands Hommes, a historic district that is full of charming cafes and shops. Other notable attractions in Bordeaux include the cathedral of Saint-Andre, the Basilique Saint-Seurin, and the Jardin Public.
10. The French Alps
The French Alps are one of the most popular tourist destinations in France. Millions flock to the area every year to enjoy the stunning scenery and many activities. One of the best things about the French Alps is that they are easily accessible from major cities such as Paris and Lyon.
There are several regional international airports, so getting it is relatively straightforward. Once you’re in the Alps, an extensive public transport network can take you to all of the main ski resorts and towns.
What to do there:
The French Alps are a winter wonderland, offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world. However, there is much more to do in the Alps than hitting the slopes. For those who enjoy the outdoors, there are countless hiking and biking trails to explore, as well as many lakes perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating.
The Alps are also home to some quaint villages, each with its unique history and culture. And of course, no visit to the Alps would be complete without indulging in some of the region’s famous culinary delights, such as fondue, Raclette, and crème brûlée.
Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a relaxing getaway, the French Alps have something to offer everyone.
In conclusion
There are many beautiful places to visit on vacation in France. Whether you’re interested in wine tasting, hiking, or simply exploring charming towns and villages, there’s something for everyone. The 10 destinations mentioned above are just a few of the many highlights that France has to offer.
If you’re looking for more information on planning a trip to France, be sure to check out Simply France. They have all the information you need to make your vacation a success, including tips on where to eat and what to see. So don’t wait any longer – start planning your trip today!
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